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Oar from the surfboat KURRANULLA
Oar from the surfboat KURRANULLA

Oar from the surfboat KURRANULLA

Date1964
Object number00000651
NameOar
MediumWood, rubber, paint
DimensionsOverall: 7.1 kg
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club
DescriptionThis oar belongs to the surfboat KURRANULLA. KURRANULLA is a 7.29m surf patrol boat built in 1964 by Roy Phillips and Sons of Balmain, NSW for the Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club. The stability of its traditional double-ended design made it suitable for rescue work. It was also used in surfboat races at surf carnivals. HistoryLaunched in 1964 as a club patrol and work boat, KURRANULLA patrolled Sydney's Cronulla beach for 20 years, rescuing swimmers, setting buoys for lifesaving carnivals and competing in club races. Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club purchased the boat for £500 with funds raised by the Ladies Committee. It was christened with the original Aboriginal form of the name 'Cronulla'. KURRANULLA was the last double-ender to be built for the club. After 20 years of service, the boat was restored for the Cronulla Club by the New South Wales Department of Corrective Services and the presented to the National Maritime Museum as a gift in 1987.SignificanceKURRANULLA was one of the last double-ended surf boats to be constructed. It represents a phase of Surf Life Saving history that was replaced by a new design of surf boat, which is in turn being replaced by power vessels. The boat represents a key sporting activity that is so characteristic of Australians by the sea. Australia has led the world in the development of safety in the waters surrounding our vast coastline.