Half block model, LIVONIA
Maker
Wee George Robinson
(1894 - 1987)
Date1930
Object number00000028
NameHalf block model
MediumSpruce wood and cedar
DimensionsOverall: 118 x 510 x 115 mm, 1.05 kg
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from George Robinson
DescriptionThis half block model depicts the LIVONIA, an 18-foot skiff built by George Robinson in 1930. LIVONIA was sailed by Robinson's father J T Robinson. This model of the 18-foot vessel was made from wood and mounted on a backing board. It served as a guide for shipbuilders and their clients when constructing the life size vessel.HistoryThe 18-foot skiff was designed to reach extreme speeds and provide an exciting and attractive sport for spectators to watch. This was the aim of the vessels when they were first designed in the late 19th century. The origins of the sport are attributed to Mark Foy and a group of businessmen who were the founding members of the Sydney Flying Yacht Squadron, reported to have been established on 19 October 1891 in the 'Sydney Morning Herald'. The club advocated for sailing to be open to all types of vessels and sailors. Their first competitive race is believed to have been held on Sydney Harbour on 26 January 1892.
The LIVONIA was built and sailed by George Robinson's father J T Robinson and was according to an article in the 1938 'Aquatic Annual', the first 18-footer 'Wee Georgie' sailed, as his father's bailer boy during the 1910s. George Robinson then built his first boat, the 6-foot skiff named BRITANNIA. He was a skipper, builder and designer who played a prominent role in the class of 18-foot skiff racing and sailing during the two world wars, winning numerous competitions.
SignificanceThis model records the skills and expertise of ship model makers and illustrates technical shipbuilding practices during the first half of the 20th century.
