Motor launch IONA
Photographer
William James Hall
(Australian, 1877 - 1951)
Date1900s - 1930s
Object number00012149
NameGlass plate negative
MediumEmulsion on glass
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineANMM Collection Transfer from the Mitchell Library
DescriptionA black and white image of the motor launch IONA flying the St.George Motor Boat pennant on bow, likely on the Georges River or near Botany Bay.
Negative ID number, 9X.
HistoryYachting was a major pastime on Sydney Harbour, and well-established by the mid-1800s. A number of clubs were formed, catering for all classes and types of sailing vessel, and for their owners from different backgrounds. As technologies developed, speed boats and motor launch enthusiasts added to the throngs of sailors on Sydney Harbour. Vessels tended to belong to successful businessmen, and their clubs such as the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron reflected the class structure of the time.
Races were held throughout summertime, and in Sydney most were restricted to Sydney Harbour and other enclosed waterways, with occasional short offshore events. It was popular with the public who came to watch many important races and regattas when they were held on the harbour, gathering on the foreshores or watching from ferries that followed the races.
SignificanceThe Hall photographic collection provides an important pictorial record of recreational boating in Sydney Harbour from the 1890s to the 1930s. The collection documents the lively sailing scene in Sydney during this period and features images of vessels ranging from large racing and cruising yachts to the great array of skiffs and the emerging technologies of motorboats. Images of many of Sydney Harbour's iconic vessels are also included in this visual record.
