Model of Halvorsen-built motor cruiser

Maker Henry Jackson (Australian, 1908 - 1971)

Date1930s

Object number00047708

NameModel

MediumWood, canvas, brass, paint

DimensionsOverall: 430 x 1110 x 290 mm, 7000 g
Other (stand): 860 g

ClassificationsModels

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from the Estate of Laurence Henry Jackson

Collections

Model ships

Terms

DescriptionModel of a Halvorsen-built motor launch made by Henry Jackson who worked for Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd during World War II.HistoryDuring World War II Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd pioneered mass production at their Ryde boatyard to fill Australian Defence Department contracts. At the peak of production the Halvorsen workforce grew to over three hundred and fifty. Of these only ten were trained shipwrights. The rest were master builders, carpenters and painters employed under the government's Dilution scheme of Labour. Harry Jackson was one of these 'dilute' workers. Jackson worked for Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd during World War II and was responsible for managing the painters at the boatyards. After 1945 he returned to his trade of French polishing. His association with the Halvorsen family brought him into contact with a variety of Halvorsen-built workboats and recreational craft including the classic wooden motor launches. This wooden model reflects the classic Halvorsen style of elegant lines, flared bow and white raised deck hull contrasted with varnished cabins sides and trim. It was restored in 2004 by the model maker's son Laurie Jackson (1937-) who worked for Lars Halvorsen Son's Pty Ltd in the mid 1970s.SignificanceThis skillfully constructed model reflects the classic Halvorsen style of elegant lines, flared bow and white raised deck hull contrasted with varnished cabins sides and trim. It is significant as an example of a classic Halvorsen motor launch that was made by an employee of Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd in the late 1930s. Harry Jackson also built furniture for members of the Halvorsen family.