Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 2 May 1925
PIONEER HISTORY
Alderman R. White writes :—
I have received the following letter from Mrs. B. Mitchell, Glenelg, Union street, Coraki :—
“Dear Sir, — Having followed with great interest your notes of the early days of Lismore, more especially the reference to early shipping, I thought I would write and let you know that I have some very interesting diaries of my father’s, the late Captain Lachlan McKinnon. He was on the s.s. Waimea from August, ’69, to July, ’70. Captain Iredale was then master. I have the Waimea log book for that period, also the log book of the river steamer Lotus, which worked in conjunction with the Waimea. My father had charge of the Lotus from July 28, 1870, to February, 1871, when she was laid up. I also have an old printed passenger and cargo tariff, dated ‘Sydney, July 1, 1870.’ Mr. John E. Manning was the agent in Sydney and Mr. Joseph Edmondson agent at Coraki. Strangely enough, there is no mention as to whom she belonged.
“Regarding the steamer Bonnie Dundee mentioned by you, I looked up my father’s diary and found the following entry : ‘Met the new steamer Bonnie Dundee at Blackwall (Wardell), and a tidy looking craft she is.’ My father had charge of the tug boat Index from November, ’74, to August, ’77, when Mr. Yabsley laid her up. I will only be too pleased to give any other information I may have.”
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 13 May 1925
LOG BOOK OF LOTUS
(Kept by L. McKinnon 1870-1871)
1870.
August 4th : Towed the Wallaby (schooner) to Coleman’s. Took 54 boards and 143 rails cedar in from Currie. Also two planks of cedar from Coleman for the exhibition. 65 bags corn, two bags of bacon and two hides, and lower down the river 40 bags corn.
Oct. 18th : The Susannah Cuthbert went up this morning bound for the Richmond River saw mills (Wyrallah).
Nov. 4th : Susannah Cuthbert arrived from Sydney today. Reports the Waimea is laid up.
Thursday, December 1st : Started to the Heads ; going to try to get a vessel to take corn to Sydney ; could not get a vessel ; all engaged as soon as they cross the bar, and sometimes before.
Dec. 10th : The Susannah Cuthbert up this evening, but no word from Mr. Manning to tell us what we are to do. Sent most of the corn to Sydney by the Examiner last Saturday.
Dec. 20th : Hammond, from Ballina, back from Sydney. He reports the Waimea is sold, but I can hardly believe it.
Dec. 25th : One of the men arrived from Sydney by Examiner last night. He reports nothing doing to the Waimea yet.
1871.
Feb. 23rd : Laying the Lotus and punt Settler up till further notice. So I will finish this book for the present.
WAIMEA’S TARIFF
Sydney, June 1st, 1870. Sea passages:
To and from Sydney and Ballina, cabin £3 10s ; to and from Sydney and Ballina, return cabin, £5 10s ; to and from. Sydney and Ballina, steerage, £2 ; to and from Ballina and Sydney, return steerage £3 10s.
These charges include victualling and are from anchorage to anchorage. Should passengers require refreshments on board after the arrival of the Waimea at Ballina or before her departure thence for Sydney, they will only be charged 1s 6d a meal in the cabin and 1s in the steerage.
RIVER PASSAGES
To and from Ballina to Wardell 2s to and from Ballina to Broadwater 3s, to and from Ballina to Rocky Monty 5s, to and from Ballina to Elbow 7s 6d, to and from Ballina to Coraki 10s, to and from Coraki to Wyrallah 2s 6d, to and from Coraki to Lismore 5s, to and from Coraki to Pelican Tree 2s 6d, to and from Coraki to Casino 5s.
N.B. — Passengers proceeding to or arriving from Sydney by the Waimea will be permitted to travel between Ballina and Coraki in the Waimea or her tender, free of any charge for the river.
Freights: In quantities of not less than half a ton. To and from Sydney and Coraki, dead weight 20s, measurement 30s per ton, maize 2s 9d per bag of ordinary size, fowls 8d per couple.
Puntage: North Arm as far as Lismore, 10s per ton ; South Arm to Tomki, 10s per ton ; above Tomki, 15s per ton ; maize 3d per bag. Other produce in proportion.
Special arrangements made with large and regular shippers for the delivery of cargo to any part of the line at so much per ton in full. Agent at Coraki, Mr. Joseph Edmondson. Agent at Sydney, Mr. John E. Manning.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 13 May 1925
TUG INDEX
(From November 16, 1874. Owner, W. Yabsley (senr.), Master, L. McKinnon.) T. Thompson, engineer; George Polson, deck hand.
Dec., Sunday, 13th.: A heavy sea on the bar. The School Boy sailed in at 11 a.m Top of high tide. Shipped a good deal.
The Alpha close behind her. She shipped a heavy sea. Washed the mate and anchor man away from the wheel; broke it to pieces. The mate washed away and drowned. Seen no more. The Kate Monahan sailed in without any damage. After wards the Alice Jane came in. She shipped a heavy sea; carried away her wheel. The mate was steering her; picked himself up at or under the windlass. She sailed up to Ballina. We are to tow the Kate Monahan up to Blackwall to load there for New Caledonia. He has 12 tons of cargo for there.
The Alpha has coals for Yeager, at Coraki.
1875.
Jan. 1: Heavy sea. Capt. Humphries and his mate, Bowling, from the School Boy, here to dinner.
Jan. 6: Towed the School Boy out at 8 a.m., Kate Monahan at 9 a.m., Examiner at 10. Then started for Lismore for the Sea Ripple, Hector.
Jan. 16: Towed the Hector, Rachel Cohen out. Poor Dick Harris, who died yesterday from sun stroke, buried this evening.
March 13: Heavy sea on the bar. Reported that the Sarah Nichol is lost with all hands. Also the Helen McGregor, on the Clarence bar. Five hands lost.
April 5: Started out at 6 a.m. with Examiner, then Monarch and Storm King, then Fanny Wright. The Alchymist took Perseverance, Leonidas and Rachel Cohen.
FACING BIG SEAS
Aug. 9: The Platypus (steamer) and Storm King (schooner) off the bar this morning. A heavy sea on the bar. The Platypus faced it three times. At 10 a.m. we started out; the pilot said there was too much sea on. As soon as we headed out the Platypus headed in, and we passed one another in the break. We shipped a great deal of water going out, but managed to get the Storm King; both of us shipping great deal of water coming in.
Aug. 20: We got up at 3 a.m., took 40 bags of coal in, and crossed the bar for the Clarence at 5 a.m.; crossed the Clarence bar at 11. a.m. Towed the Resolution schooner out at noon, and the Gleaner at 1 p.m. Started back to the Richmond River at 1 p.m., reached Evan’s Reef at 8.30 p.m., where George Lewis caught six schnapper and four rock cod, and I caught nine schnapper off the Richmond bar at 10.30 p.m.
Aug. 21: Got hold of the Amphitrite, and rowed her in at 7 a.m.
Sept. 6: Took the Octoroon and Peri out together, then the Alpha, Princess, Louise, Lucy Ravel, and Resolute.
Sept. 9: Took the Margarette out over the bar at 2.30 p.m., then we proceeded to the Clarence River.
Boiler leaking, returned to Ballina.
Oct. 26: Took the School Boy over the bar at 4.30 p.m. Then made fast to School Boy and she towed us to the Clarence, and we let our fires down.
Oct. 27: Towed the School Boy over the Clarence bar, then the Perseverance. Started with both vessels for Grafton, where we arrived at 4 p.m.
Oct. 20: Towed the Rosebud over Clarence bar, then the Saucy Jack. Took the Look Out schooner up to Harwood.
Oct. 31: Took the Kate Conolly barque out today.
Nov. 2: Left the School Boy outside at 1 p.m., then went in with the pilot. Left again for the Richmond River at 1.30 p.m. Stopped fishing at Evan’s North Reef.
Caught 15 schnapper, 6 rock cod, and 1 king fish.
AGROUND AT COLEMAN’S REACH
Nov. 12: In taking the Amphitrite out of Coleman’s Reach, Lismore, had to take her out stem first; no room for her to turn. She went into a gum tree, limbs of which fell on deck. One of them striking the cook on the head, nearly killing him; made an ugly gash.
1876.
New Year’s Day, 1876: Took 45 baskets of coal in today before 5 a.m. Went outside and towed the Pioneer ketch in. Afterwards went to our moorings, and had the rest of the day to ourselves.
Jan. 3: Received a message today to go over to the Clarence. Went to the Customs House, and bought some forms for 2s 6d, and cleared for the Clarence River.
Jan. 4: A beautiful day. Arrived at Clarence at 11 a.m. Took the Colleen Dhas schooner out. Rosebud schooner over the crossing. Got her half way out when a gale caught us, and we had to run back and anchor her inside till morning. Sent tele gram to May Peverley that we would be over in time for the tide tomorrow.
Jan. 5: Towed the Rosebud out this morning. As we got to within three miles of the Richmond bar, saw Fenwick going out with Bertha and May Peverley, so we lost her.
Jan. 12: The Rob Roy at the bar at 7 a.m. Fenwick beside us all the time. We both shipped a great deal of water, but we just managed it. We got the Rob Roy, and took her in and right up to Blackwall. Then went up the river with the Neptune, for Coraki, and Alice Jane, for Lismore.
Jan. 13: Proceeded to Lismore, where we arrived at 9 a.m. Left again at 9.30. Called at the Alpha, at Wyrallah. Fenwick caught up to us; he passed us, and got to Yeager’s about three minutes before us.
When we were getting to the Elbow, we saw him entering the long reach. Did not see him any more till dark, at Ballina. We reached there at sunset, brought the Storm King in, took her up to Ballina in the dark.
Feb. 11: Managed to take the Examiner and Storm King out after a severe struggle then helped Fenwick out with the Monarch, but could not get more out. We shipped one heavy sea, very nearly put our fires out.
PUMPED ALL THE WAY
5th Feb.: N.E. Fresh. Took Saucy Jack out on the flood tide. Then Margarette, Atlanta, and Annie Moore. Started for Sydney at 4.30 p.m.
Feb. 22: Reached Sydney late last night, Index making water all the way down from the river. Had to run for Trial Bay, and lay there. Pump constantly used all the way to Sydney.
11th March: Left Sydney for the Richmond River. Seems to me that bad weather is coming along the coast.
16th March: Left Trial Bay. The Diamantina left before us. We are hardly averaging four miles an hour.
17th March: Weather still very bad, so we made for the Macleay. We shipped a great deal of water coming in.
21st March: Crossed the Richmond bar at 1 p.m. Found 16 vessels bar bound inside. The School Boy managed to get in early this morning.
26th March: Towed the May Peverley, Lizzie Davis, Examiner, Saucy Jack, Storm King, and Ocean Bride out. Fenwick took eight vessels out.
April 9: Had a hard chase with Fenwick this morning to get hold of the Pioneer, just saved ourselves by one minute, so we got her.
April 11: The Susannah Booth, Monarch, Lizzie Davis, Pioneer ketch, Saucy Jack, and Wallace and Bruce sailed in. Fenwick got them, we only got the Alpha, Octoroon, and Atlanta. Do our best today, waiting in the channel for vessels, Fenwick would slew round before us and get hold of them.
May 10: We went out and rounded the bar, found 11 feet all the way out. Too much sea to take any out. After dinner Capt. Davie and I went down to the pilot station, got them to go fishing with us. With the two hauls, caught about 180 dozen. Davie and me took 30 dozen, some for the telegraph master, and some for the Examiner. I took 11 dozen; gave three dozen to George Lewis. I had to send ashore for 3s of salt. George Polson caught three large jewfish.
April 15: A frightful day, with wind and heavy rain all day long. The Alpha dragging right up to the fisherie. Margarette foul of the Storm King; Examiner aground; Neptune on top of Perseverance; Octoroon foul of the Monarch, and Index with three anchors out, also a kedge down, had to steam ahead in the afternoon.
BUSY DAY
July 27: The Bertha, Examiner, Lady Robinson, Princess Louisa sailed out. We towed the Alpha, Neptune, Perseverance and Saucy Jack out together. Rob Roy and Louisa together, and last, the Margarette. Fenwick towed the May Peverley, Monarch, Octoroon, Emma Jane, Storm King, and Alice Jane out. Seventeen vessels crossed outwards today.
Oct. 14: We went out at break of day. Fenwick met us crossing in at the same time. We stayed outside till noon, caught about 180 schnapper. The Ballina (steamer) came in with the Marine Board at 9 a.m. and left again at 1 p.m
Oct. 30: At daylight went to the wharf for some coals. Fenwick started off at the same time; out by himself, and got the Lavina in. He had to get a man from her to help him in. Fenwick got the Victory and Lady Robinson. We only got the Perseverance.
Dec. 14: We started a mutual improvement class tonight in Ballina, in connection with the School of Arts. Hunter, president; Ross, vice-president; Wigmore, secretary; Bassman, Capt. Harrold and myself, committee.
Dec. 21: Mutual improvement class meeting tonight for the first time in Ballina. I opened it with a reading.
1877.
12th Jan.: Agnes Irving steamer came in today. Also schooner Dancing Wave.
Feb. 15: Fenwick left this morning for Sydney by the Agnes Irving. He is after a larger tug boat. George Polson and I went down to the wreck of the old Vesta, and got some brass and lead out of her.
Feb. 16: Took the May Grant in and up to Blackwall; brought the Wallace and Bruce down, also Dancing Wave. Found a man waiting for us from Cape Byron. They want us to go over there at once, but we are unable to go. Fenwick is under repairs, and we have four vessels to take out tomorrow, and a message from Saucy Jack to go up for her.
WRECK OF THE BRILLIANT
Feb. 20: Took in 40 baskets of coal first thing this morning, then a big chain with large anchor, and started off to Byron Bay for the wreck of the Brilliant. Arrived in Byron Bay at noon, got our warp aboard, tugging at it with might and main. Two teams of bullocks, a chain, and a warp, with a big anchor beside, getting her down by inches.
Feb. 23: Got the Brilliant off today at 3 a.m., then started for the Richmond River.
March 7: Arrived in Ballina from Coraki at 2.30 p.m, where we found Fenwick’s new tug boat, Francis Hixon, and a fine boat she is. Also found that a barque, the Peony, had been wrecked four miles along the south beach, with the captain and four of the crew drowned. The captain’s wife and five of the crew saved. They were making a collection for the survivors, to which we all gave 10s each.
March 22: At our meeting tonight. On the business paper a debate between Hunter and Russel, “Should Members of Parliament be paid or not?” Hunter affirmative, Russel negative. Hunter gained the victory.
May 10: The s.s. Beagle came down last evening, and we showed her the way out to day. Fenwick helped the Jabberwock out. Attended our meeting tonight.
May 15: Left Coraki at 9 a.m. I put Government buoys on Rocky Mouth Rocks, one at Lang’s, one at Cook’s, one at Broadwater, and one opposite Sonter’s.
August 15: The Index to be laid up, so we shifted our goods up to Coraki, and handed the Index over to the owner on the 16th August, 1877.
Mr. R. White (Lismore) supplies the following notes:—
Regarding the above history, a few notes are required to make some of the incidents clear.
“Snow’s Wharf,” referred to, is just about where the Three Chain Road touches the river at South Lismore. Mr. L. G. Snow, father of J. G. Snow, of Bangalow, then lived there, and later had a sawmill there.
“The Junction.”—This refers to Coraki.
Regarding the work of the tug boats referred to by Captain McKinnon, it will be noticed that there were a very large number of craft of various descriptions trading here at that time.
“Coleman’s.”—This was the Wallaby Wharf, and Newtown store, owned by Mr. E. Coleman, fronting the river near where now is the Church of England.
“Hammond from Ballina” was a business man in Ballina, and so far as I remember an ex-captain himself.
In the Waimea’s cargo and passenger tariff Rocky Mouth and the Elbow are mentioned. The former is now Woodburn and the latter Swan Bay.
Blackwall is now Wardell.
The steamer Platypus was the first steamship trading regularly here. Previously the trade had been spasmodic.
George Lewis referred to was a well-known man in Ballina. The contest between the rival tug boats the Index and Fenwick’s boats provides some very interesting reading.
The fact that Fenwick went without a deck hand on one occasion and had to get one from the schooner before he could tow her in was typical of the man who faced the Richmond bar under all kinds of conditions.
Ballina Mutual Improvement Class.—The reference here is rather interesting. Hunter, the president, was postmaster at Ballina.
Ross, vice-president, was Mr. E. Ross, a well-known business man. Mr. Wigmore was also a well-known business man. Bassman was sergeant of police, and Captain Harold was an old salt that settled in Ballina.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 15 September 1925
MASTER MARINER’S DIARY
The following are further items from the diaries of the late Captain L. McKinnon, of Coraki:—
May 6, 1870.—Heavy storm at dark. I went down with them to the Junction to their meeting. I joined them tonight, paid 4s for the quarter ending June 30. I gave a reading—not too good on it, but I hope I do better next time.
May 10.—Got the North Arm goods in the punt Planter, and the South Arm goods in the punt Settler. Started off with the punt tonight, but did not get far. Very heavy rain between 8 and midnight.
May 11.—Heavy rain today. Started with the steamer at 7 a.m. Got up to the saw mill at 20 past 9 a.m., where I left them, and got down aboard again at 5 p.m. Took seven bags of potatoes in this evening.
May 14.—Blowing very strong from the west. Could not start with the punt till dark, and then we only managed to reach Baillie’s, where we made fast for the night. Boat from Sarah Nicoll’s went up with the goods to the Pelican Tree. Yeager’s steamer went up to Casino; he brought us 38lb. of meat.
May 17.—Started last night at 10.30, and got up to about a mile above Woram, where I made fast for the night. Charlie was very sick and had to stick to his bed.
May 19.—Started at 1 a.m. and kept at it till 11 a.m. when we managed to get up to the wharf. Cameron came to the wharf today; he is up at Casino selecting for Breckenridge. Britten would not come for his goods today, so we have to wait till morning.
May 20.—Raining all day long. Brittin did not come for his goods till noon, so we did not get away till 1 p.m. He brought down to us 10 hides, 1 cask of tallow, 1 bale and 1 bag of wool from W. C. Bundock, for Mort and Company, Sydney. We stopped at Dockrill’s through the night being so wet.
May 21.—Very dull day. Started at 7 a.m., made fast at 10 p.m. opposite Mrs. Pidcock’s. A fireman supposed to be hard up came to see if we could take him to the Junction; he wants to get a passage to Sydney.
May 24.—Queens Birthday. Great regatta at Coraki. I pulled in the two-oared race, but came last. Donald, in McPherson’s boat, came in second. Our John (Mr. J. McKinnon, Oakfield) and Peter, in a four-oared race, came second. It passed off well. A ball at night at Nolan’s and one at Cousin Donald’s.
May 25.—Discharged our punt by 10 a.m. and got away at noon. I bought 30lb. of flour 6s 3d, 4lb. currants 2s 4d, 2lb. tea 4s, 12lb. sugar at 5s, reached Rocky Mouth at midnight.
May 26.—Reached Cook’s at 5 a.m., started again at 9 a.m. Got as far as Blackwall at noon. Passed the Wallaby and Commerce at anchor off Broadwater at 5 p.m. The Welcome Home passed up the river.
May 28.—Very cold day. The steamer got up at noon to Blackwall. We went alongside of her at 1 p.m. Got the white punt nearly loaded by dark. Heavy rain commenced at dark, still at it.
May 30.—Showery all day. E. Munroe and William McLean came down this evening in McLean’s boat. Up as far as Sam Cook’s by 11 p.m. where we made fast for the night.
May 31.—Raining very heavily this morning till daylight. Landed Cook’s stuff, and started up the river, landed flour for Lamonds, and got as far as Fred Robbin’s, when we had to make fast till 8 p.m., when we got under weigh again. The Sarah Nicolls went down tonight.
June 1.—Showery till noon, when rain set in properly. We landed the Rocky Mouth goods, and started away, by noon. Only got a mile above William Gollan’s. Started at 11 p.m.
June 2.—Reached O’Connor’s at 3 a.m. Landed goods for O’Connor, Hecker, and Leeson’s. We went and found the old boat we lost during the flood, we got back with her at sunset. Hector McKenzie and Sandy Robertson from Tucki here for goods. Alick Thorburn and Allan Munroe passed on their way to the Heads at 11 p.m.
June 3.—We managed to get as far as Harry Williams’s this morning, landed his flour and received 330 empty bags belonging to Mr. Manning. Took the old boat on our decks this morning. At 3 p.m. Duncan and Charlie went up the river to the Junction in the Government skiff.
June 4.—Started at 1 a.m., managed to get to Newby’s, landed goods for him with the boat, then to Pursey’s and Krauss’s. Started at noon pulling against the tide. Got to the Junction at dark; landed goods at Child’s and D. McLean’s.
June 7.—Started at 2 a.m. Got up as far as Hugh Livingstone’s, where we landed goods at his place; started again at 5 p.m.; got as far as Baillie’s, where we made fast for the night.
June 10.—Took us six hours to get up two miles and a half. Landed goods at Tomki at Woods and Dockrill’s, and got up to within half a mile of Casino wharf by midnight.
June 11.—Warped the punt up to the wharf by 10 a.m. Charlie went up to Casino and posted letters for me. Got clear of the goods by 3 p.m., started down the river, and made fast at Rann’s.
June 13.—Got 39 bags of corn from Mrs. Pidcock, and also 11 cheeses; started from there at noon, got down to Mrs. Pinkerton at dark, where we got 37 bags of corn, and then proceeded to the Junction, where we arrived at 10 p.m. The steamer came up at dark.
June 14.—Got alongside at daylight, put our corn in the square punt, started with the punt and steamer up to the sawmill at noon; arrived there at 3 p.m. They gave us the Gundurimba and Lismore goods; started away at 10 p.m. Bought off George Woods two bags of potatoes for £3, 8lbs. meat, 2s 8d; 2lbs. butter, 2s 6d.
June 15.—Reached Gundurimba at 3 a.m. Wind and heavy rain during the day
June 16.—Started at midnight, and got up to Coleman’s at 3 a.m.; left there at 8 a.m., got to Whitney’s at 3 p.m., where we are to get some corn. Had a letter and half a dozen newspapers by the Waimea. Lost my 4s 6d bucket overboard this evening.
June 17.—Got 20 bags of corn from Whitney this morning, then got down to P. Smith’s, where we got 37 bags of corn. Got as far as D. Sherlock’s, where we stayed for the night.
June 18.—Raining during the day. Got 30 bags of corn from Cousin J. Sherlock and 19 from B. McPherson, and 20 from another wharf.
June 21.—Down to the Junction at 10 a.m. with the punt. Alick Thorburn came down this evening, and told us that the steamer is stuck on a log up near Pelican Tree.
June 22.—At dinner time the mate and four men from the Waimea came down in the big boat to the Junction for a warp from Mr. Yabsley. They got it and went back to the steamer. At sunset, Charlie and me were sent up there by Edmondson to help them, but when we got there we were not wanted, so turned back.
June 23.—A beautiful day. Steamer got down by 9 a.m.; did not finish loading till 4 p.m., when the steamer left on her way to the Heads. Sister Kate, Cousin Sarah, Miss McLaren and Miss Tierney passengers for Sydney.
June 27.—Reached Casino wharf at 9 a.m., went up to Casino. Edmondson was there. Sold five bags of potatoes—10s per bag. Started down the river at 4 p.m.
July 1.—Left Hunter’s at 9 a.m. Got down to Mitchell’s, where we made fast at 1 p.m. as both wind and tide were against us. We started again at 4 p.m., got to the Junction at 6 p.m. Attended our meeting; I gave a recitation, “Coeur de Leon.”
July 2.—Fine day. I had a letter today from my old friend, Bill McGregor; he is appointed pilot at Tweed Heads, and I am very glad of it.
July 3.—A beautiful day. I did some shopping for brother Hector; he goes to school now. We had to pump the big punt out twice today. Waimea up at dark.
July 9.—Landed Tomki goods and got up as far as Ross’s place; took the boat and went up as far as Casino, back by dark; started by 7 p.m.
July 10.—Reached Casino at 10 a.m., got the goods away by noon. Started down the river. Sold two bags of potatoes for 11s each.
July 14.—Raining all day. We had to pump the big punt out today. We were to go to Lismore with goods, but there is a fresh in the river, and there will be no chance for some days.
July 15.—Very wet day, with south-easterly wind. I shifted 500 bricks to a place of safety. The river rising fast.
July 16.—Heavy rain till 8 p.m., when it cleared off. We took the square punt to the wharf at the store, and put everything (cargo) in by 4 p.m.
July 17.—Beautiful day. Came up cloudy at dark. Duncan came for me to go home with him for dinner, so I went; had tea at McLean’s.
July 19.—A beautiful day. The river almost down to its level. I bailed 500 buckets of water out of the big punt.
July 22.—Sandy and me took the punt up as far as father’s—could get no further; went out pulling corn with other chaps. At 4 p.m. heard a great whistling, so I started off in the skiff for the Junction. The engineer met me, coming up for me in the little river steamer Lotus; went down, and they started me off to Casino with her— four passengers, a fireman and myself. Could not get time to go home for clothes or provisions. Had supper at Mrs. Hunter’s.
July 23.—The fireman had great work to get steam up. Instead of getting to Casino at 8 a.m. did not get there till 3 p.m., then by the time I got up to the town it was too late to get a dray for the few things we brought up. Had to get 7s worth of provisions from Mr. A. C. Simpson, as we had nothing with us to eat.
July 26. Got up at 5 a.m., went down to the Junction for coals. Started again at 7 a.m., two passengers besides Mr. Nolan and Mr. Edmondson. Reached the saw mill (Wyrallah) at 10 a.m. Started for Lismore at noon.
July 27.—Beautiful day. Left Lismore at 8 a.m. Took 52 bags maize : from Mr. McMahon, 19 at Walsh’s and 12 at Moss’s. Got to the steamer at 1 p.m.; they sent us right off to the South Arm to Mrs. Pinkerton’s for 24 bags corn, back to the Junction by 7 p.m.
July 28.—The Waimea arrived at the Junction at 7 a.m. She left the Junction at 8 a.m. and we left at 9 a.m.; got half way to the mill when the tubes got dirty, so instead of getting there in two hours, it took us five hours. Reached the mill shortly after 2 p.m., left again at 3.30 with the white punt alongside, and 800 feet of timber in it for Mr. Gerard, at whose place we arrived at 7 p.m.
July 29.—Beautiful day. Left Lismore at 10 a.m. Left the punt at McNamara’s, came on down with the steamer Lotus; got 9 bags of corn to send to Sydney next trip. Attended our meeting at Coraki after tea. Very poor meeting, just ourselves and the Yabsleys.
July 31.—Made fast last night at 7 p.m. about a mile from Woram, having run into an oak tree which was lying across the river. The punt came up on us, and at the same time knocked a piece of our bulwark in.
August 1.—A beautiful day. Started at daylight, reached Dockrill’s by noon. Left the punt there and went on to the wharf. We got 20 bags of corn from Dockrill’s consigned to Manning. Got ½ ton bacon from Burke’s consigned to B. Wright, landed 40 empty bags at Woods and 30 at Rann’s.
August 2.—Started at 7 a.m.; passed Yeager who was landing goods at Woram. Stopped at Hunter’s to get some fire wood; reached John Livingston’s at 3 p.m., where we took in 61 bags of maize, then down to Mick Walsh’s, where we left the big punt, and we then went on to the Junction for coals.
August 3.—Coaled and left the Junction at 7 p.m. Took 27 bags of maize in at Mick Walsh’s by noon, went to the Junction and then left for Lismore. Arrived at McNamara’s at 7 p.m., where we tied up for the night.
August 4.—Took the punt up to Sheen’s above Coleman’s, then came down to McNamara’s and towed the Wallaby up to Coleman’s. Took 198 pieces of cedar in, and got to Gundurimba at dark, where we tied up for the night.
August 5.—Started at daylight, took 7 bags of corn from Parker’s. He was down himself, but could not carry up any of the corn. 33 bags from W. Munro, had to carry them all myself. 15 from Riordan, had to carry them from his barn. Reached the Junction at 7.30 p.m. Attended our meeting tonight.
August 6.—We stayed at the Junction all day. Brother Duncan, Martin and Tom Nolan started off to the Diggings at the beach.
August 8.—Went down to Fogwell’s at 8 a.m. Got 17 bags of corn from there. Discharged them into the square punt and had to wait for nearly four hours on Mr. Edmondson before we could start up the North Arm. Towed the big punt up with us. Only got 14 bags of corn.,
August 9.—Received word that there are 50 bags of corn for us at Rocky Mouth Creek, so we started down the river at 10 a.m.; got up the Creek by 1 p.m.; shipped the corn and out of the creek by 4.30. Put 20 bags aboard the big punt, and left the rest on the Lotus till the morning.
August 11.—Beautiful day. Pumped both punts out. In the evening we discharged the timber we had aboard the punt Settler into the store ready to take cargo in. The Waimea arrived at the Junction, Mr. Manning aboard her.
August 17.—Started at daylight, but through a leak in the boiler could not raise more than 20 lb. steam. Got 42 bags of maize from John Woods, 40 at Rann’s. Mr. Manning came aboard at Tomki, in leaving which place the towline got foul. The punt was running into us. Managed to save the little steamer but hurt my hand. Is very painful. Reached Mrs. Pidcock’s at sunset, where we got four bags of bacon for Sydney. Had to call at Baillie’s for two bags of coal. Reached the Junction, at 9 p.m.; left again at 10 p.m.
August 18.—In towing down Three Mile Reach this morning, I stumbled over something on deck in the dark and fell over-board, head first; lost my hat. Found the Waimea at Rocky Mouth at daylight. Discharged our punt at once. They are taking the Lotus’s boiler to Sydney to be repaired. They left at 9 a.m.
August 19.—Strong breeze from the northwest. Could not start till sunset as the tide was done, only managed to get up a mile. A ball at Rocky Mouth tonight. John and Donald and our cousins came in from Evan’s Head to attend it. I stayed till midnight.
August 20.—Started at 3 a.m.; got up to the middle of Long Reach when the tide turned. Started again at 1 p.m. Got home by 7 p.m. Then went back to the Junction to see Mr. Edmondson on business.
August 23. — Managed to reach McNamara’s with the tide. Then towing against the tide, reached Sheen’s place by 1.30, took about 100 feet of cedar in before dark (boards), dropped down to Coleman’s after dark.
August 24.—Showers of rain during the day. Got 100 bags of corn from McNamara’s, consigned to J. E. Manning. Left there at 4 p.m., made fast at the Fig Tree at 8 p.m. Took 800 feet of cedar boards from Currie’s.
August 25.—Very heavy fog this morning. Started at 2.30 a.m. Reached cousin John, Sherlock’s, at 8.30 a.m., took 29 bags of corn from there. We lost one in the river.
Started again, at 3 p.m., reached Crisp’s at 8 p.m., where we made fast for the night.
August 26.—Dull day, started at daylight. Reached father’s at 9 a.m., just as the tide was done. The Alpha schooner passed up this morning. Reached the junction during the afternoon. Heavy rain this evening.
August 27.—Discharged cargo from white punt into the square punt, finished by 5 p.m. John came up from the beach tonight, he had fall from his horse, and while down the horse kicked him.
August 30.—Showers of rain through the day. Steamer arrived here at 8 a.m. with Lotus in tow. We got the South Arm bridge in and started at noon. About three miles from Deep Creek the boiler started to leak, and put the fire out altogether; had to make fast for the night. I bought 7 bags of potatoes for £3 6d.
August 31.—Raining all day. Tried her first thing this morning, but no go. The fireman and I left the Lotus and punt in charge of Bill Morbury. Took the skiff and started at 9 a.m. for the junction, where we arrived at 2 p.m., left there at 3 p.m. with the engineer and some working tools. Back to the punt by 6 p.m., and they started work at once.
September 1.—Showers of rain during the day. Started before daybreak, but something else going wrong we did not get very far. Reached Casino at 5 p.m., after a number of mishaps. After tea we went up to Casino, back to the boat by 10 p.m.
September 2.—Heavy showers of rain all day. We had great work to get the cargo ashore today through the rain. Did not leave the wharf till 2 p.m. Reached Deep Creek by midnight, we are staying for the night. Sold three bags of potatoes today for £1 13s, and two yesterday for £1 4s.
September 3.—Rain nearly all day. We got 68 bags of corn at Pidcock’s. Through heavy rain, it took us four hours to get it. six bags of coal in by noon; and then started up to Rathbones for 60 bags of corn. Back by 10 p.m.
September 5.—A beautiful day, discharged our corn by 6 a.m. The steamer started for Rocky Mouth at 6.30 a.m. We got alongside the wharf at once. Took our cargo and six bags of coal in by noon, and then started for Lismore. Had a breakdown just at Sherlock’s. Walked up to the sawmill, got a boat there and then went down for the Lotus and punt; got down to the sawmill at midnight.
September 7.—Cloudy day. Managed to get prepared, and got our cargo ashore and left at 10 a.m. Reached Taylor’s at 1 p.m., towing a raft from Taylor’s. Left the punt at Sexton’s, and towed the raft as far as Johnston’s.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Captain McKinnon at this stage was in charge of the steam tender Lotus, collecting cargo for the s.s. Waimea, owned by Mr. J. E. Manning, of Sydney.
Frequent references to the Junction may confuse those who are not aware that Coraki is meant.
The three mile reach referred to is near Swan Bay.
Rocky Mouth is now Woodburn, and Rocky Mouth Creek is now Tuckombil Creek.
Blackwall is the ancient name for Wardell.
The Baillie referred to was a settler on the South Arm, some of the family are still there, and the original was a brother of the late James Ballie, blacksmith, at Lismore.
Britten was a hotel keeper in Casino. His widow married again, and was well-known as Mrs. Rhodes of the Exchange Hotel, Lismore.
One cask of tallow, a bale and a bag of wool from W. C. Bundock to Mort and Co., Sydney. Mr. Bundock had Wyangarie station just above Kyogle. It would seem from this that he kept sheep there at that time.
Alick Thorburn, mentioned on June 2, is a well-known resident of South Lismore at the present time.
June 16, got up to Coleman’s. This is Coleman’s wharf at Lismore, where the rowing club shed now is.
Sheen’s where he got some cedar, deals with what was known as Currie’s saw pits, a few yards above the site of the new bridge over Wilson’s Creek. Fred Sheen was a pit sawyer, and lived there. His wife was a nurse, and ushered a number of Lismore’s old residents into the world, including myself.
Edmondson was a storekeeper at Coraki at that time, and the reference to A. C. Simpson, of Casino, deals with an early period in Casino’s history, where Mr. Simpson was a leading business man.
In the last paragraph in which he says “We towed a raft from Taylor’s,” this was The Horse Shoe Inn, where Foley’s creamery stands in South Lismore. It was kept by Mr. Nathan Taylor, grandfather of Mr. W. A. Taylor, of Woodlark street.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 7 November 1925
ON THE RIVERS
The following are further items from the diaries of the late Captain L. McKinnon, of Coraki:—
September 8, 1870.—Heavy shower of rain this evening. Started with the raft shortly after 1 o’clock. At 2.30 one of the valves gave way, which delayed us about an hour and a half. Left the raft at Irving’s, went back to Sexton’s, where we had left the big punt, reached there at 8. p.m.
9th.—Strong southerly breeze. Took 62 bags of corn in today from Mr. Sexton’s. Went up to Lismore for cedar boards. Took 84 in this evening.
10th.—Took 51 boards in today for Currie. Got down to MacNamara’s at noon, but they have not got the corn ready yet, only going to begin drawing next Monday. They have 100 ready, and we are to get another 50 from Rathbone on Tuesday. Louis had to go up to Baillie’s for bars for his furnace. Those he had are done.
13th.—Went up to Lismore with Louis for 6 furnace bars (Baillie’s). Cost 12s. Edmondson came up this evening. He tells me that my brothers Donald and Duncan are up from the beach. Took 40 bags corn from MacNamara.
15th.—Heavy shower of rain this afternoon. Made the raft fast this afternoon, about a mile from the sawmill, to wait till the tide turns. Left the raft at the sawmill this evening. Went on to the Junction (Coraki) and landed most of our cedar, and put 34 bags corn aboard the punt. Then I went up home. Cousin Donald Sherlock this day week selected 70 acres of land for me. £17 10s paid down.
HEAVY WEATHER
16th.—Very hot day. Just as we finished loading the big punt a heavy storm came up from the west. We attended our meeting tonight. I gave a recitation — “Lochiel.”
17th.—The Waimea arrived at the Junction at 4 p.m. Not much cargo for us this trip. Heavy shower of rain this evening. My brother Hector is very sick tonight.
18th (Sunday).—Up home most of the day. Hector is very sick. I came back to the Junction to get some medicine for him. The captain and second mate of the Waimea, with Louis and one of the firemen from the Waimea, away with the Lotus all day. They arrived back at 7.30.
19th.—Started with the South Arm goods at 7 a.m., but something being wrong with the shaft we had to stop, and did not get away till 10 a.m. At 4.30 p.m. some of the engine gear gave away, which delayed us another hour, so that we only managed to reach Woram, where we made fast at 7 p.m. Brother John was down before we left the Junction this morning. Brother Hector is no better. I bought today half a ton of potatoes for £3 10s, 100 lbs. of meat at 2½d per lb„ also off Edmondson 10 lbs. sugar at 5d per lb.
20th.—A beautiful day. Started at day light. Had to wait 2 hours at Rann’s place. Not enough water for us to get over. Reached Casino wharf at noon. Could not get them to come for their goods till tomorrow. Sold five bags of potatoes for 12s per bag.
21st.—Landed the goods this morning and started down the river. Took seven bags bacon from Flannigan and 30 bags of corn from Rann. Reached the Junction at 8.30 p.m., and half an hour afterwards Brother John and Peter McLaren came down to tell me that Brother Hector had died about 8 p.m. I went up home and stayed there all night. The Waimea is at McLean’s wharf.
22nd.—I came down aboard at 5 a.m., and the Waimea came down at 5.45 a.m. She took 250 bags corn, 7 bags bacon, 135 cedar boards from here.
A FUNERAL
23rd.—A fine day. We buried our brother, Hector, today. He was only 14 years of age. There were a great many friends at the funeral. We started at 1 p.m. and got back to the river bank by 4 p.m.
24th.—Heavy shower of rain this afternoon. Started this morning at 7 o’clock. Reached the sawmill at noon, but something being wrong with the tubes Louis could not start tonight. Took in the goods they left on the bank for us here.
25th.—Went out to Tucki. Had dinner there. Afterwards attended church in the school house. Rev. McPhee preaching. A very good attendance.
29th.—A beautiful day. Heavy thunder storm this evening. Took 603 feet timber at 12s per hundred, 200 feet batons at 8s per hundred, 58 wall plates 4 inches by 3 inches—58 x 6. We got bags of corn from Hector McPherson. Took the raft to Hermon’s with the morning’s tide.
30th.—Very heavy rain from 4 a.m. till 10 a.m., then showery for remainder of the day. Took the raft down as far as father’s, when the tide being against us we left it there and went back for the punt. Landed timber at McPhee’s, then down to the Junction with the punt. Took coals in, then back for the raft, and took it to Yeager’s. Attended our meeting with Peter McLaren. I gave a recitation.
October 3.—A beautiful day. Waimea reached the Junction at 10 a.m. and commenced discharging at once. Heavy rain this evening. Got both punts loaded with goods. Received my month’s pay from Captain Turner. £9.
11th—Raining all day. Finished discharging at 8 a.m. Took a lot of furniture in for Sydney, also some bacon and lard. Two passengers going with us to the Junction. They want to go to Broadwater.
18th —Beautiful day. The Policeman schooner came up last night and went down early this morning. The Susannah Cuthbert went up. They are to load at the sawmill, “Wyrallah.” The Waimea arrived at 3 p.m.
20th—Heavy rain all day. Some of our men are ashore at Nolan’s Hotel. Could not get them aboard before 8 a.m. Started up the North Arm, left the punt at the mill, and reached Lismore at 7.30 p.m.
21st.—Heavy rain with thunder and lightning through the night till about 7 a.m.
We left Lismore and reached the Junction at 9 a.m. Took in coal, and left for Casino. Made fast at the Pelican Tree at dark.
22nd.—A fine day till about 8 p.m., when very heavy rain again, and kept on till about 10 p.m. We arrived at Deep Creek at 3 p.m., where we made fast for the night, in fact, till Monday. The river is running down so fast that we could hardly crawl up.
FIGHTING THE FLOOD
24th.—Started this morning at 7. Broke down two or three times. The flood is up this morning four or five feet. Got to within a mile of Casino wharf when the steamer broke down.
25th.—Tried the little steamer this morning, but no good. We had four men to help us haul her up with the lines. Discharged the south side goods and then hauled her up to the wharf. Six men helping us to do that.
26th.—Very hot day. Started at 5 a.m. towing the Lotus and punt down. Reached Woods’ at 11 a.m., where we got 40 bags of corn, and left 40 empty bags there. Reached Tomki at noon. Got a cask of tallow there. Got as far as Rann’s, and stayed there for the night.
27th.—Beautiful day. Started at daylight. Started towing. Had 40 bags corn from Rann. Reached Deep Creek at midnight.
30th.—Reached John Livingston’s at 6 a.m. We are to get some corn from him.
31st.—Strong wind from the southward. We got 53 bags of corn from John Livingston, then warped the Lotus down to Whiteheads’, where we got 38 bags corn.
November 1.—Bill and myself started up the North Arm to the sawmill. Arrived there at dark. The Examiner went down the river this evening.
2nd.—Very hot day. Got 1200 feet of pine for Chambers. 700 feet for myself for £2 4s 8d. Left the sawmill at 11 a.m. and reached Munroe’s at 2 p.m. Got 30 bags of corn there. We managed to get a mile below Munroe’s, where we had to make fast—wind and tide too strong for us.
4th.—The Susannah Cuthbert came up this evening. The Waimea, in coming round Dawes Point, Sydney Harbour, was run into by the Avoca. Did not hear what damage was done.
7th.—Beautiful day. I sent a telegram to Mr. Manning. Can hear no word of the Waimea. Brother Donald went over to Grafton, so I sent the telegram by him. Got a raft down, 110,000 feet of pine for the Waimea.
10th.—A very dull day. We had to pump the big punt out today. I believe my telegram to Mr. Manning did not get through. There is a break in the line somewhere.
17th.—Heavy rain this morning. We reached Cooks’ at 9 a.m. and waited till 3 p.m. for our chaps who are coming up with us. Arrived home at 9 a.m., when we found our pump smashed to pieces, the big punt half full of water, and the raft missing. Have to bail the punt out.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 21 November 1925
EARLY HISTORY
LATE CAPT. L. McKINNON,
FURTHER ITEMS FROM HIS DIARIES
1870-71.
November 25th, 1870.—Very hot day. The Welcome Home came up today; they brought us no word from Mr. Manning to let us know what we are to do.
December 2.We started up from the Heads early this morning, and reached the junction at 4 p.m., where I found a letter waiting me from Mr. Manning. I went up to Yabsley’s about the corn; he will take it for us. We attended our meeting tonight.
December 11th.—A beautiful day. Had to pump both Lotus and big punt out today. The steamer Sussanah Cuthbert came up this evening. No word from Mr. Manning.
December 12th.—Took the mast out of the big punt today. We are going to try and find the leak in her bottom. After dinner brother Duncan, J. Robertson, Martin Nolan, J. Fogwell and myself started to the Heads (Ballina) in Nolan’s boat; reached Tyler’s, Wardell, at 8 p.m. Stopped there all night.
December 13th.Left Tyler’s at 6 a.m.; reached the Heads at 9 a.m.; met the Helen schooner and got the goods we were expecting from her. We reached the junction (Coraki) at midnight.
December 15th.—Showers of rain during the day, but cleared off beautifully towards evening. We had a tea meeting in the school house (Coraki) tonight. School finished for the year. Reached home at 9 p.m., all well pleased with the evening’s performance.
December 17th.—Had our men, our cousins and two traders with us trying to turn the punt over today, but we could not manage it. The Sussanah Cuthbert went down this evening about 4 p.m. pretty well loaded.
20th December. Very hot day. We could not manage to turn the punt, so we have fixed up another pump and so far it acts all right. Hammond came up from the Heads this morning; he is just back from Sydney. It is reported that Mr. Manning has sold the Waimea, but there is little faith to put in reports. Pumped the big punt by 6 p.m.
December 25th.—Dull day. Very quiet all day. Louis came up to tell me the Examiner came up at 2 p.m., so I went down with him to see Yabsley about the corn. Back home for tea.
January 1st, 1871.—Fine till evening, when it came up very heavy from the southward. We came down to Ballina last night about 9 o’clock. The Sussanah Cuthbert came in at 6 a.m. They tell me that the Waimea will be up next week. Two schooners came in today.
January 3rd.—Heavy sea on the bar. I am afraid it will be some days before we get out (Examiner). The Royal Duke, Alpha, and the Helen schooners came in today.
January 5th.—Went down to the pilot station this morning. The Highlander brigantine came in this evening. They took in about 100 bags of oysters for Sydney. I went aboard the Sea Ripple after tea. A beautiful night.
January 6th.—Got steam up and started over the bar at 6.30 p.m. Let steam off by 8.30 a.m. At noon heavy rain set in. Abreast North Solitary at 8 p.m.
January 7th.—Dirty weather all night, and also today. The Resolute, schooner, passed us at 8 a.m. bound north.
January 8th.—We had a very dirty night. Cleared up as the day advanced. A schooner passed us at 8 a.m. bound north, and another ahead of us at 10 a.m. steering south. Abreast of Port Stephens at 10 a.m. At 10 p.m. anchored at Pyrmont Bridge (Sydney).
January 27th.—Heavy rain in Sydney. I am aboard the Sarah Nicholls tonight. Am going back to the river on her. Have not received much satisfaction from Mr. Manning. No use waiting any longer.
February 6th.—We were off the bar at 2 a.m. Managed to cross in at 6 a.m. Commerce, Sea Ripple, Sylvanus, Settlers’ Friend came in. The School Boy, Wallaby, Octoroon, May Queen, Alpha and another schooner out today.
February 8th.—Reached home by 1 a.m. Left there again at 8 a.m. and left the junction at 11 a.m. for Ballina with the Lotus. Reached Ballina at 7.30 p.m.
February 9th.—Came up very rough from the south. Started from the heads at 9 a.m. Took 1½ tons of coals from Blackwall; also 1½ tons of goods for Lismore. Reached Cook’s at 5 p.m., where we stopped for the night. Went to a concert, 2s per ticket.
February 16th.—Took our boat up on deck and trying to repair her. The Sussanah Cuthbert passed up today. Brought no word for us as to what is being done with the Waimea.
February 19.—Beautiful day. Cousin Donald and I rode down to Broadwater, and then walked out to the beach where our men are. They are doing fairly well. We reached home at dark.
February 25.—A meeting at the Junction about our regatta. Richard and Robert Fogwell, Mick Nolan, Tom King and Chas. McKinnon appointed committee, Mr. Edmundson treasurer, W. Yabsley judge, myself secretary. A meeting to be held on Monday night at 7 o’clock at the Coraki Hotel to decide on the lengths of boats.
February 27.—We attended regatta meeting at the Coraki Hotel, but we only decided on length of boats, and to have six races.
March 7.—Heavy rain this evening. Sam Cook (Broadwater), W. Gollan (Woodburn), W. Argue (Wyrallah), James Britton (Casino) and John Brown (Casino) wrote enclosing donations to our regatta.
April 3.—W. Currie came down from Tucki informing us Mr. and Mrs. Roderick McKenzie’s little girl died this morning. After breakfast, cousins Donald and Charlie, Mr. McLean and ourselves rolled a small cedar log up on the bank, and managed to get it to the saw pit. News from the Heads per George McLean that the Waimea is expected up next week.
April 10.—Beautiful day. Started off at 2 a.m. with brothers Duncan and Sandy to the beach. Reached the camping ground at the beach at noon; does not appear to be much doing here.
April 11.—Donald and I started on a tour of prospecting. Took four days’ provisions with us. Reached the McPherson’s camping ground at noon. Prospecting after dinner till evening. No success.
April 20.—Sussanah Cuthbert crossed out today, passed here at noon. Donald and I brought over the pump and box we left at the Little River (Evans River). After dinner Sandy, Donald and I off fishing, caught enough fish to last us several days. Have not made our fortune here yet.
April 21.—Heavy rain, till 9 a.m., cleared off after that. Donald and me started for home. Took us till 9.30 to get home.
April 24.—Brother Donald and me started back to the beach; nothing doing here just now, so we may as well go back. Reached the camp at dark. Heavy rain tonight.
May 19.—I came home from the beach in disgust this evening. Duncan came with me. Attended our meeting tonight.
May 20th.—Cleaned the Lotus up today. John and I busy cutting cane to take down to Mr. Chambers to get crushed for sugar.
May 22nd.—A most beautiful day. Cutting cane and putting it aboard the Lotus, then went down to Chambers, got the cane crushed by dark and then started back for home.
May. 20th.—Beautiful day. I went down to the junction and met Mr. King, the Pol ice Magistrate. He tells me that I should claim my wages from Manning.
June 3rd.—Duncan and I getting firewood for the Lotus. We intend going up the South Arm for 100 bags of corn from Mr. Edmundson. Received a letter and cheque from Manning last night.
June 7th.—Beautiful day. I went down to Chambers with Edmundson’s boat to help him take up to the Pelican Tree a machine he had for a centrifugal. After a severe struggle we managed to put it in the boat. Reached the junction at dark, where we left the boat till morning.
June 8th.—Started at 8 a.m. for Pelican Tree. Reached there and had the machine ashore by 4 p.m. Then I pulled the boat back myself and reached home at 7 p.m.
June 12th.—Beautiful day. Mr. Black, from Blackwall, here for the night. He got a fall from his horse crossing the swamp. Did not get hurt.
June 24th.—I went out to the cemetery and painted the railing around Rev. Mr. Thom’s grave. Bought he paint from Edmundson’s.
June 26th.—Fine day. Alpha schooner went up today. We were pulling corn today and then husking after tea.
June 27th.—Fine day. Went down to Mr. Yabsley’s for his punt to take up to Tomki. Took 100 bags of corn from Baillie’s, 2s a bushel. We are also to get 200 bags of corn from Livingstone for Mr. Edmundson. Took 50 bags in from Baillie’s. Have to wait for morning to take the remainder.
June 29th.—Started off to Casino with the skiff. I got 11s for the butter I brought up for Simpson. Started down river and reached Hugh Livingstone’s about 10 p.m.
July 3rd.—Fine day. Out painting the railing round Mr. Thom’s grave. A funeral today. One of Brown’s children died last night, buried this afternoon.
July 7th.—Beautiful day. We were cleaning and painting the Lotus today. Attended our meeting tonight. I gave a recitation, “The Sailor’s Grave.”
July 10th.—A beautiful day. I finished cleaning up the Lotus today. Sussanah Cuthbert passed up today.
July 14th.—Beautiful day. Sussanah Cuthbert went down pretty well loaded. Attended our meeting after tea. W. Yabsley, Duncan and myself gave a recitation each.
July 31st.—Beautiful day. Went shooting after dinner. Only got three geese and three cygnets (young swans). Sarah Nicolls passed up today. She has been lengthened, and now has three masts.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 13 March 1926
LATE CAPT. L. McKINNON EXTRACTS FROM HIS DIARY
The following are some further extracts from the diary of the late Capt. L. McKinnon:
8th August, 1871: A beautiful day. Newby and Harrison pulled against one another to day at John McInnes’ place. Newby won easily, had the race to himself. Mr. John Yabsley engaged the “Lotus” for the afternoon to enable friends to see the race.
31st August: We had the Rev. Galloway here to see us tonight.
6th September: We attended a meeting at the Junction (Coraki) tonight, towards trying to get a School of Arts. W. Yabsley, senr., was chairman.
13th October: Beautiful day. We attended one meeting tonight. Our vice-president (Tom King) resigned, and I was elected in his place.
24th October: We took the ”Lotus” down to the “Examiner” yesterday evening, but they are not going to take her in tow till I take her over the crossing. I am going to Sydney with the “Examiner” myself to night.
31st October: Crossed the bar at 9 a.m. The tug Culloden towed four vessels out today.
10th November: Went to Manly beach this afternoon and came aboard the “New England,” steamer for the Clarence River, at 10 p.m.
12th November: Arrived at Clarence Heads at 6 a.m., stayed here all night, paid two pounds passage money.
13th November: Left at 6. a.m., in company with G. Woods of Ballina, to walk to the Richmond. Arrived at Rocky Mouth (Woodburn) at 7 p.m., where we parted company and I went on for home, where I arrived at 9 p.m. My feet were very sore after the long walk.
November 20th: Have made a fresh agreement to work the Lotus and punts. Towed a raft to the Junction today ready for the Waimea. The Waimea up at 5 p.m.
4th December: Took 3000 feet of cedar from John Currie, Lismore, to ship per Waimea for Sydney; called at the saw mill for some pine.
16th December: We put 380 bags of corn on the Pioneer, and started off with her for the Heads. We got 70 bags from Newby and we had to stop there till the tide turned. Started again and took 16 bags from the Elbow, and 19 from Riordan.
17th December: Started at 7, a.m., took 17 bags of corn in at one place, also case of eggs and a coop of poultry at another place; had to wait for the tide.
18th December: Started at 5 p.m., got over the crossing at 8.45 a.m., and alongside the steamer and started to discharge at once. Finished by 6 p.m.
22nd December: The parents and children of the school at the Junction held a picnic today and magic lantern at night. School finished for the year. We stayed down and saw the finish; everything very satisfactory.
26th December: A very hot day. Our Mutual Improvement Society’s picnic held today. Very nice time. Dance held at night at Edmondson’s.
31st December: Beautiful day. We got down as far as Cook’s when the tide turned against us, so we stayed here for the night.
1st January, 1872: Left Cook’s at 6 a.m. and reached the Junction (Coraki) at 5 p.m., then went home; found a good few friends there.
10th January: Took corn from several places and then went on down to Blackwall (Wardell), where they told us that the Waimea was wrecked, so we stayed here for the night.
11th January: Came down to the Heads this morning. Sure enough the Waimea is ashore. They were unshipping the cargo. I am staying with them. Dan took the skiff and went back to look after the punt and corn.
12th January: Down at the Waimea un shipping the cargo as best we can.
13th January: Very wet all day. The “Sarah Nicolls” will take most of the corn to Sydney for us. We were going to the Heads with the big punt but the wind was too strong for us.
16th January: Took the punt down to the wreck this morning and after a good deal of bother had to come back without any cargo, and lost two kedges into the bargain.
17th January: After dinner we went to look for the kedges we had lost and were lucky enough to find them. Then went up Emigrant Creek for bread, back by midnight.
19th January: Showery all day. “Kate Monaghan” sailed in this afternoon. Dan left us; he has arranged with Capt. Johnson of the tug “Culloden” to go as cook for £6 per month.
21st January: Sailed for Casino. Capt. Turner from Waimea going with us. Mr. and Mrs. Eyles for Yeagers, Woods and two other gents for Casino.
27th January: Tried to take the punt to the wreck today but we nearly made a mess of it. We were nearly over the bar, so we took her back over the crossing and moored her near the pilot’s place for the night.
28th January: The Culloden started for the Clarence this morning with eleven of the shipwrecked crew aboard. They are going to Sydney from the Clarence. 30th January: Took 32 bags of corn from the wreck this morning and 14 tonight; had the punt close down to the wreck.
31st January: Took one boat load of corn off this morning. Capt. Pratt sent his boats and crew over to help us with the big punt over the crossing. We put 31 bags corn for us, 20 for Edmondson, 18 for Whiteside, 9 for Mathieson, 5 for Charlie McKinnon aboard the Wallaby. They will take it to Sydney for us.
2nd February: Arrived home at 3 a.m. John (Mr. J. McKinnon, of Oakfield) at the centrifugal. They sold the first 10s worth of sugar today.
3rd February: John and Sandy drying sugar all day. They made about 200 lbs. to day. The rest of us cutting and carrying cane ready for Monday.
5th February: Crushing before breakfast, John then boiling till 11 p.m. Donald and self-cutting cane and Sandy drawing cane in with bullocks.
6th February: Cutting and drawing cane all day. Dr. Croft called here today. Visitors all day interested in sugar making.
6th March: Have been working at the cane since 6th February. John making and drying sugar. We dried 130lb. today.
7th March: Cutting and crushing today. We had a meeting tonight at the Junction about our regatta. I am secretary again this year.
3rd April: Very hot day. Sent a letter and sample of sugar to the editor of “Town and Country Journal.”
14th May: Yeager’s new steamer (Athletic) came up last night. John and myself down to see Mr. John Yabsley.
15th May: We went down to see Yeager’s new steamer the “Athletic” this morning.
24th May: Coraki Annual Regatta held today. Great success, John McDonald winner of the championship race. Yabsley’s “Nettle” won the four-oared race.
25th May: The “Lady Belmore” steamer came up today for the punts and Lotus. We had a settling up tonight, with John Yabsley afterwards.
13th June: Beautiful day. At 4 p.m., Billy Munro came down from the saw mills (Wyrallah) to tell us that our cousin Andrew Sherlock was killed there today, three pine logs rolling over him.
15th June: A beautiful day. We went up to the funeral of our cousin Andrew Sherlock. Buried him at 1 p.m. in the cemetery near the saw mills.
17th June: The little paddle steamer ”Clarence” went up to Lismore today.
19th June: Beautiful day; started at noon from Coraki in the paddle steamer “Clarence” for Casino.” I went with them to show the way. Reached there by evening.
26th June: Beautiful day. Sister Mary married today at noon to Robert Dolby (Mr. and Mrs. R. Dolby, of Coraki), Rev. Blue officiating.
2nd July: Brother Duncan and self have made up our minds to walk to the Brunswick along the beach. Left our boat at the Pilot Station, Ballina.
13th July: Arrived at the pilot Station at 5 p.m. from Brunswick. We got some mineral; do not know if it is of any value.
Friday, April 18th, 1873: Joined the s.s. Athletic today (W. Yeager, master), trading between here and the Clarence, also acting as tugboat for both rivers.
13th May: Reached Yeager’s wharf at 2.30 a.m. We left Ballina at dark, towing three steamers, left two at Blackwall and took the J. G. Colston with us; she is for Lismore.
14th May: Started for Lismore at noon with the J. G. Colston. In passing home (Oakfield) brother Duncan came off to me with letters, so he took my place on the Athletic and I went off home to see father and mother. Had a jolly night at home.
15th May: The Athletic back about 4 p.m., so I had to go aboard again; stopped at Yeager’s all night.
17th May: Finished loading about 8.30 a.m. Started off to Ballina where we landed some timber, crossed the bar outward at 11 a.m. After getting out found that there was too much sea for us, so we came in again and anchored in the first bight.
19th May: The Examiner came in at 4 p.m. The Alpha came in yesterday evening. We started to tow her to Wyrallah; run her aground at Newby’s.
20th May: Under weigh at sunrise. Reached Wyrallah at 10 a.m. Left the Alpha there; took some coal in and started for Gundurimba where we took the J. G. Colston in tow, and reached Coraki at sunset.
23rd May: Started with the J. G. Colston, reached Ballina at 3 p.m. Towed the Wallaby, Octoroon and Commerce up from the bar to Ballina.
Saturday, 24th May: Towed the schooner School Boy from the bar this morning. Today being Queen’s birthday, had a holiday. 26th May: Had steam up early this morning, but too much sea to go out, so we went up to Ballina and took 28 baskets of coal in and then went trawling fish with the chaps from the Margarette.
29th May: The Welcome Home, Australia, and Storm King, schooners, sailed and another two passed north during the morning. The Sarah Nicolls off the bar in the evening, but too much sea on the bar. Caught 35 whiting this evening.
1st June: Went out and towed the Sarah Nicolls in only 7ft. 6in. on the bar. We started for the Clarence but were too late to get over the bar, so we brought up off the Little River for the night. Nasty sea; our passengers are sick.
2nd June: Crossed Clarence bar at 10 a.m. One barque, two brigs and one schooner loaded with corn inside. Arrived at Grafton at 6 p.m.
6th June: Took 4000 bricks and sundries in today. Government engineer aboard today examining our engines.
8th June: Towed the Sir Isaac Newton in over the bar (Richmond bar) at 4 p.m., and then towed the Alpha out.
9th June: Towed the Florence and Octoroon out this morning for £5 each, after discharging 2000 bricks on Mobbs’ wharf. The new tugboat “Challenge” arrived this evening. Mrs. McLean is on board going to Sydney.
10th June: Discharging the remainder of the bricks today, then started for Coraki. Mr. Tom King and Miss Madeline Yabsley married today.
13th June: Heavy rain all day. Finished loading about 11 a.m. Took a lot of deck cargo for Mobbs; left the saw mill at noon. Landed Mobbs’ timber and coaled and went alongside the Wallaby for the night.
21st June: Heavy sea; no chance to get out. The Susannah Cuthbert off the bar, but she had to clear off for Byron Bay. A schooner off the bar this evening.
22nd June: Several sails in sight. The Challenge tugboat went out this morning and towed the Yarra in. The tug struck very heavily several times and shipped a great deal of water.
23rd June: Susannah Cuthbert off the bar all day, but no chance to get her in. The Challenge towed the Alpha and Hector in.
The Sea Ripple sailed in yesterday evening; we towed her up to Blackwall. Then Susannah Cuthbert, Lismore, Kate Monahan over the bar.
30th June: Towed the Pilot and Kate Monahan in today and the Wallaby and Commerce out. Seven feet three inches on the bar. We started for the Clarence at (?) p.m.
1st July: Crossed the Clarence bar at 7.30 a.m., met the steamers Civility, Helen McGregor and Susannah Cuthbert outward bound.
5th July: Crossed the Clarence bar at 1 a.m., and the Richmond bar at 5 p.m. The Challenge was taking the last of the bar-bound fleet out as we came in.
12th July: Crossed the Richmond bar at 10 a.m., and the Clarence bar at 4 p.m. Had three adult passengers and one child; all sick.
18th July: Crossed the Richmond bar at sunset last night. Discharged our Blackwall cargo and then took in 4000 feet of pine and about three tons of goods for Lismore. Bought a bag of potatoes for 8s and 100 of flour for 17s.
23rd July: Raining nearly all day. Managed to work cargo for about two hours. Yeager’s new vessel, the “Amphitrite,” towed up this evening by the Challenge. Pratt is captain of her. Mr. Yeager is a passenger on her.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 5 April 1926
EARLY HISTORY
(Further extracts from the diary of the late Capt. L. McKinnon.)
1873
25th July. We took the Amphitrite up to Wyrallah, back by 6 p.m. Then stowed cargo from the Commerce, attended our meeting at Coraki at night.
31st July. Sailed for Wyrallah for the Amphitrite and Commerce. The Australia and another vessel off the bar.
2nd August. Brought the Sea Ripple up to Pimlico from the bar, went alongside the Amphitrite for the night.
3rd August. Towed the Amphitrite out this morning, then started for the Clarence. Anchored for the night at Evans Head. The Wallaby, Examiner, Lismore, Florence, and the Commerce towed out today.
11th August. We took in 3500 bricks after dinner, also coaled.
13th August. Towed the schooners Leslie, Ceres, Lucy and Adelaide out, towed the “Lottie of London” schooner up to Rocky Mouth and the Resolute down to the Heads.
14th August. Towed the Resolute, schooner, and Lalla Rookh, brig, out today, which between the two days made £37 10s. Too late (?) to start for the Richmond.
15th August. Crossed the Clarence Bar at 7.30 a.m. and the Richmond bar at 1 p.m. then towed the Sea Ripple and Hector out.
16th August. Towed the Australia, Margaret and J. G. Coleson out this evening; discharged our cargo of bricks and salt today.
18th August. We took about 18 tons of goods from the Storm King for Lismore. Towed the May up from the bar to Ballina; then went up to Blackwall and landed Carter’s goods and then went on up the river.
20th August. Landed our after hatch and deck cargo today. Took 14 tons of goods from the Octoroon at Wyrallah to land at Lismore.
21st August. Down to Gundurimba by 1 p.m., landed 2500 bricks there, then took the Atlantic schooner in tow for Wyrallah mill, where we arrived at dark. Attended the debating society meeting at Wyrallah tonight.
23rd Aug. Started loading at 7 a.m. The tug Challenge passed with the Amphitrite. We started for Coraki, where we arrived at dark. We are to get 20 tons of goods from the Amphitrite for the North Arm.
26th August. Took 90 bags of corn from Coraki down to Yeager’s. Then proceeded down the river to Blackwall where we arrived at 8 p.m. Found the Susannah Cuthbert there.
2nd September. The Lismore, schooner, went up today to Wyrallah, the Challenge towing her. Johnstone, who lost the Culloden and Vesta, is on the Challenge as engineer.
4th September. Towed the Wallaby out this morning and the Octoroon, Amphitrite, and Sir Isaac Newton in this afternoon; then started at 4.45 p.m. for the Clarence. We have three passengers aboard.
6th September. We crossed the Clarence bar at sunrise and arrived at Grafton at noon yesterday. We finished discharging about 10 a.m. and then began to take in some hard wood timber for Ballina.
10th September. Heavy sea on the bar, but we managed to get out. Just as we got in sight of the Richmond we saw the Examiner crossing in and five schooners after her. We crossed in just after 12.30 noon. We found the Commerce, J. G. Coleson, and Sea Ripple and towed them up to Ballina. Tried the Hannah Barrett (a little schooner that is stuck), but only shifted her about 100 yards and then had to give her up. We are at Mobbs’ wharf for the night.
11th September. We went down to help the Hannah Barrett, got her off, then took the Margarette and Sea Ripple up to Blackwall. The Challenge came down with the Lismore.
15th September. Started from Blackwall towing the Lookout schooner down with us. We started to tow her out over the bar, but in rounding the bight the tide put us ashore, did not get off till dark, when it was too late to take her out.
17th September. The Storm King, Kate Monaghan, and Atlanta with her fore top sail gone came in this evening. We towed the Princess Louisa up to Pimlico.
18th September. Landed our timber today, and then went alongside the Storm King and took 16 tons of goods from her, also some ballast for up the river. Started for Blackwall for the Sea Ripple. The Susannah Cuthbert down this evening.
19th September. Took the School Boy down from Emigrant Creek and out this morning. The Sea Ripple and Alpha sailed in this evening, also the Annie Taylor.
20th September. Towed the Annie Taylor up to Pimlico, then landed our timber and filled our water tanks.
23rd September. The Sir Isaac Newton off the bar, sailed in at 9 a.m. The Octoroon at 10 a.m. Towed the Sir Isaac Newton and Princess Louisa up to Pimlico.
24th September. Started with the Storm King at 7 a.m. She grounded in turning the bend; had to get a kedge and anchor out, we got seven turns of the warp round our propeller. I got five of them off, then had to cut it after all. Got the Storm King out by 10 a.m. Princess Louisa out by 11 a.m.
26th September. Under weigh by 6 a.m. with the Florence to tow her outside for £8. Picked up the Atlanta below Emigrant Creek; left them both outside before dinner.
28th September. Susannah Cuthbert came in at 10 a.m. We towed the Commerce out about 11 a.m. The Challenge took the Kate Monaghan out; she is for New Caledonia. We started with the J. G. Coleson, but the tide took her on to the spit in the bight; could not get her off.
29th September. The Challenge towed the J. G. Coleson off this morning and towed her out, also the Rachel Cohen.
1st October. Started with the Wallaby for Coraki. Arrived there a little after seven p.m. left there and went on to Gundurimba, where we arrived at 9 p.m., staying here for the night.
3rd October. Started at 6 a.m. towing the Alpha and Annie Taylor; took both vessels out. The Susannah Cuthbert, steamer, out and the Atlanta sailed out.
5th October. The Dancing Wave, schooner, and Amphitrite came in. Allan Munro came aboard for a spell this evening.
6th October. Six vessels off the bar this morning. We started with the Amphitrite for Yeager’s at 5.30 p.m. and reached there at midnight.
8th October. Left Lismore at 9 a.m. and arrived at Ballina at 9 p.m. Found ten vessels in there before us. The Challenge towed them all up from the bar to the township, and three of them up to Blackwall.
15th October. Started at 4 p.m. with the Amphitrite; took her over the crossing; not enough water for her. While we were ahold of her stern line the Examiner ran into us and knocked about 20 feet of our bulwarks in.
16th October. Cleared the wreck in the morning; got a screw jack aboard and set up our bulwarks again. At 2 p.m. sailed for Coraki; anchored at Yeager’s wharf at 7.30.
18th October. Started at 6 a.m.; reached Ballina at 1.30; found the vessels on the crossing as we had left them. The School Boy sailed out this evening.
22nd October. Towed the Amphitrite, Hannah Barrett and Princess Louisa out today. The Challenge towed the Examiner and Dancing Wave out yesterday evening.
26th October. We started with the Victory, but got stuck between the rocks and the shore; did not get off till noon.
29th October. Sir Isaac Newton, J. G. Coleson, May, Octoroon, Annie Moore, Ceres sailed in today. The Kate Monaghan came in from New Caledonia on 27th.
30th October. We took some cargo from the Octoroon; then started to take the ketch Marquis of Lorne out. Got stuck, and took us two hours to get off; then we managed to take the ketch out. Afterwards took the Commerce out. Then tried to tow the May off the sand bank, where she stuck after crossing in over the bar; we could not move her; ended by getting stuck ourselves.
31st October. Managed to get off at 6 a.m., started for up river; took hold of the J. G. Coleson at Blackwall; reached Gundurimba at 9 p.m.
2nd November. Reached Ballina at 2 p.m. Susannah Cuthbert came in over the bar at dark.
5th November. The Amphitrite, Wallaby, School Boy and Douglass came in today. Amphitrite has a great deal of cargo for us this time.
6th November. Very heavy showers of rain all day. The Susannah Cuthbert crossed out. We started for Coraki with the Amphitrite.
7th November. Arrived at Coraki at 3.30 a.m. I left the Athletic this morning. Duncan (late Duncan McKinnon) came down with the Keystone; the Athletic broke down at the Elbow on her way down river.
15th November. Very heavy thunderstorm this afternoon. The Challenge went up to Lismore this evening towing the Yarra.
18th November. We were chipping cane all day. The Susannah Cuthbert passed us, Capt. Turner on her, at 1 p.m.
21st November. Chipping cane. We went to town to our meeting after tea; only Mr. Yabsley and Oliver Jones there.
22nd November. Very hot day; heavy hail storm today, very large hail; broke several of our windows and cut up the young corn and potatoes.
24th November. We are getting firewood for the mill; father and mother making arrowroot.
26th November. Raining heavily nearly all day. The Challenge went up with the Fanny, schooner, in tow and come back with the Victory.
29th November. Very hot and very heavy hail storm this afternoon. Yeager sent for me again. The men are drinking and doing no good for him, so I am going with him for a few weeks.
31st December. A fine day. Left Yeager today; have stayed since 29th November. More showers late in the night.
1874
1st January. Few showers of rain; the flood going down.
2nd January. Beautiful day; they are all busy but myself getting in firewood.
19th January. Brought cane in before dinner, and then crushed it after dinner.
22nd January. Beautiful day. The Alchymist, paddle boat, went up this morning towing the Dancing Wave, schooner, to Lismore.
1st March. Splendid day. Rev. Blue preaching at Coraki this morning, and Mr. A. Mackay preaching in the afternoon, both in English and Gaelic.
16th March. Very sultry day. Father and John dried 260lb. sugar today, the rest of us cutting cane all day.
20th March. Beautiful day. Billy Ballantyne from Solforino called here tonight, but we were down at our meeting, and therefore missed him.
21st March. Dried 150lb. sugar today, John boiling what was crushed yesterday.
14th. April. Beautiful day. I am preparing for Sydney, going away with the Examiner tomorrow, going to sea again.
15th April. Cloudy day. Started away on the Examiner at 7 a.m. with the School Boy in tow, reached Ballina at dark.
20th April. Crossed the Richmond bar at 9 a.m. on 17th, and entered Sydney Heads at 7 this evening. Passage money £2.
31st April. A beautiful day. Sold the gold for £18 and some odd shillings. I think I will go on the Helen MacGregor for a spell.
27th April. Heavy showers of rain. Started on the Helen MacGregor today at £7 a month.
2nd May. We got the Helen off the slips at daylight; then went to Berry’s Bay to set her compasses, then went to the wharf and worked till 5 p.m. Went to tea at Hughie Thorburn’s; he has a nice home. Heavy rain came on during the evening.
6th May. Reached Newcastle at 6.30 a.m. We left Sydney at 9 p.m. last night; a good few passengers and heavy mail, and a full cargo. Left Newcastle at noon, light rain all day.
8th May. Crossed the Clarence bar at 6.30 a.m. and arrived at Grafton at noon. Working tonight till 11.30.
10th May. Left Grafton at 4.30 a.m., called at different places for mail. At Palmers Island took 30 odd bags of oysters in. Crossed the bar at 11 a.m., passed Smoky Cape at 10 p.m.; showery all day.
11th May. Beautiful day till evening, when heavy rain set in from the west; off Port Stephens at noon, and entered Sydney Heads at 2.30 p.m.
15th May. Beautiful day. We left Sydney at 10 p.m. on 13th. Left Newcastle at 10 a.m. on 14th and crossed the bar at 11 a.m. today, and arrived at Grafton wharf at 7 p.m. We passed the New England bound south this morning at 10 o’clock.
16th May. Beautiful day. The Agnes Irving sailed today. We worked till 11 p.m. One of the men badly hurt this evening.
18th May. Left Grafton at 2 p.m. Called at Cameron’s and took 200 bags of corn in after 7 p.m.
20th May. Crossed the bar at 8 a.m. yesterday and entered Sydney Heads at 7.30 this evening. Raining all day.
25th May. Beautiful day till evening, when a southerly buster came on. The New England sailed today. We lay out in the stream all day, this being Regatta Day here at Grafton. MacLennan and Livingstone over from Richmond so I went out with them this afternoon.
6th June. I went to St. George Church to hear a Gaelic preacher this evening;
liked him well.
23rd June. Started for home per Agnes Irving. My belongings are going to the river by the Wallace and Bruce.
25th June. Ashore at the Clarence River Heads. Paid a shilling to a ferry man and 15s to John Lang for getting across the Richmond; home at 10 p.m.
2nd July. Started from Rocky Mouth (Woodburn) at 8 a.m. for the Clarence; arrived there at 4 p.m.
3rd July. Left at 1 p.m. by steamer a start on, everything worked well. Mr.
3rd September. Crossed the Clarence bar at 8 a.m. Paid Lang 15s for loan of horse, staying the night at Rocky Mouth; came up from Sydney by Agnes Irving.
24th September. The Athletic went down with the Hector. The Alpha sailed down. The Commerce was towed up yesterday by the Bee. We have been busy this week fixing our machinery for the mill.
1st October. Showery all day. We were busy at the mill all day. Went up to Rathbone’s to see him working his mill; he is very busy at it.
1oth October. Have been very busy getting the mill in order. When we did get a start on, everything worked well. Mr. Chambers here with us, but he had to go home before we got properly started.
12th October. Terribly hot day, 114 in the sun at 1 p.m. Duncan and John at the mill funnel, the rest of us variously employed in connection with the mill.
13th October. Another terribly hot day. 125 in the sun at 1 p.m. We were all busy about the mill all day.
October 16th.Beautiful day. The Index came up last night with the School Boy and Alpha, and this morning the Alchymist went up with the Sea Ripple and the Athletic came up with the schooner Hector.
Note. The schooner Victory mentioned in this diary was owned by her master, Capt. Charles McKinnon. The following is from the Funeral Notices in the Sydney “Daily Telegraph” of 17th March, 1926: “McKinnon, the relatives and friends of the late Capt. Charles McKinnon are invited to attend the service to be held at the Chapel Crematorium, Rookwood, on Thursday next at 2 p.m.”
This gentleman, on leaving the sea, was in charge of the powder hulks in Middle Harbour for many years.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star (Lismore, NSW : 1876 1954), Saturday 5 June 1926, page 11
PIONEERING DAYS
CAPT. McKINNON’S DIARY
OLD TIME VESSELS RECALLED
Extracts from the diary of the late Capt. L. McKinnon on board the s.s. Index, from 16th November, 1874, to 1877:
16th November. Fresh breeze. Started from Coraki at 11.30 for Lismore, arrived there at 3 p.m.; left again at 3.30 p.m., with the Leonidas in tow. Dropped anchor a mile below the Elbow at 10.30 p.m.
20th Nov. Beautiful day; towed the School Boy over the crossing, then proceeded up the river for the Leonidas, but he took Yeager’s boat, so we coaled at Coraki and then proceeded to Lismore for the Kate Monahan, and towed her to Gundurimba, where we anchored for the night.
21st Nov. Started at 6 a.m. with Kate Monahan and Alpha from Rocky Mouth (Woodburn), reached Ballina at 11 p.m. We stopped at Coraki for two hours, the diver was under the bottom of the Index putting on a new sheet of copper.
22nd Nov. Very hot day, a southerly wind in the evening. Lowrie of the Sea Ripple, after asking us to go out for him, sent for Fenwick, but Fenwick was late, so he took Yeager. Fenwick gave Lowrie a thrashing so much for Lowrie’s word.
29th Nov. Beautiful day, heavy sea on the bar. The Monarch and Storm King sailed in. The other boat got them on the crossing.
4th Dec. Southeast wind. The Atlanta sailed in this morning at 5.30. Fenwick got aboard by about three minutes before me, so he got the towing of her up, down and out again. Received some meat and salt last night from Coraki, per s.s. Bee.
6th Dec. Dull and showery all day. Towed the Sea Ripple out, also the Hector. Heavy sea on the bar, only a bare 9 feet on bar. The Athletic took Octoroon and Amphitrite out and the Alchymist towed the Margarette and Atlantic. The Alchymist and Athletic filled their decks pretty well; we shipped some heavy seas, too, but no damage done.
18th Dec. Started at 2.30 p.m. with the Pioneer. I wanted to wait for high water, but they would not hear of it. As we got round the Spit Buoy the tide caught the Pioneer and put her on the spit, where she stuck for 1½ hours, but we got her out safely after all. A schooner in sight off Evans Head at sunset.
22nd Dec. Election at Ballina today. I did not go near them. Lenos not very well, so I had to do the cooking myself; bought 1 cwt. 20lbs. of potatoes for 10s for Index.
24th Dec. Unable to do any towing today, weather rough. Lenos left us last night, he was not too well.
29th Dec. Started off down the river at 5 a.m., went on down to the pilot station. Rachel Cohen came in at 2 p.m., nearly made a mess of it. The pilot would not take us, saying that she would sail in and up by herself. After all they had to let go in rather a bad place, and then we had to go and take them up to Ballina.
10th Jan., 1875. Left Gundurimba at 8.30 a.m., arrived at Woodford Mill at 5 p.m. Tide against us most of the day. The Hector is to get some sugar here.
17th Jan., The Monarch sailed in the morning, the Commerce and Alpha in the evening. Athletic to take the Monarch up to Blackwall, and we are to take him out.
4th Feb. Beautiful day, started out with the Alice Jane at 6 a.m. Left the Examiner
outside at 8 a.m., and the School Boy at 9 a.m., then started for Blackwall for the Margarette and took her down to Blackwell. Kate Monahan from New Caledonia came in over the bar.
17th Feb. At 6 a.m. the pilot came aboard and we started with the Louisa, and as we headed for the bar it came on to rain so thick and heavy that we could see nothing of the bar and had to go by soundings; managed to get her out before the wind changed and that was all. Went down to the bar at 4 p.m. and met the Welcome Home as she came in, and then towed her and the Monarch to Ballina.
18th Feb. Heavy showers of rain. Fanny Wright, Alpha and Florence came in at 6 p.m., and the Examiner at 6.30.
6th March. Started from Ballina at 8 a.m., when we reached Pimlico found the Monarch and Margarette both ashore. After spending nearly two hours over them had to give in and return to Ballina. Rachel Cohen and Octoroon sailed in.
16th March. Heavy gale of wind and rain all day. Just at dark Yeager’s new vessel the Neptune sailed in.
17th March. Heavy showers of rain all day. The Commerce, Amphitrite and Leonidas all sailed in and up to Ballina. The Neptune grounded on the middle spit, abreast of the butchering plate; we had steam up, but were not wanted.
1st May. The School Boy sailed in and then the Alice Jane also sailed in. The Victory was making for the bar, missed stays, and got ashore on the North Head, landed almost high and dry.
13th May. Started for Blackwell at 8 a.m. with Alpha, Welcome Home, and Monarch in tow. Reached Ballina about 11 a.m. Took Alpha, Fanny Wright, Neptune, Yarra and Welcome Home out.
14th May. After dinner towed the Leonidas and Henry Fenwick (Fenwick’s new vessel) in, towed the Monarch out.
1st June. Beautiful day but a heavy sea. Took the Leonidas over the crossing. Afterwards tried the Pioneer but she stuck on us. The Kate Monahan stuck about two minutes before, and it was through her that we stuck. Fenwick went round to leeward of the Kate Monahan and stuck too. We kept dragging at the Pioneer but it was no good.
2nd June. Towed the Amphitrite over the crossing. Went out in the evening and sounded the bar, found 9 feet of water on it, then towed the Peri out. Shipped one very heavy sea while sounding the bar.
3rd June. Took the Atlanta in. We shipped a lot of water, nearly put the fires out. Had to wait outside for half an hour before we could get the vessel, got in right enough. Fenwick managed to get off tonight at 8.30 after being stuck since the 1st.
10th June. Heavy sea, managed to take the Welcome Home and Neptune in today. It was nearly a case with us today going out for the Neptune, but we managed it and afterwards went to the wharf and coaled. Fenwick would not venture out today.
29th June. Very heavy sea on the bar. The sea washing over the South Beach the whole length.
6th July. Towed the Perseverance, Rachel Cohen in today, we stuck on the flat for some time.
7th July. Towed the Amphitrite and Saucy Jack, and left them at Dennis McLeans, where the Saucy Jack has some maize to take in. We went back to Coraki and took 5 tons of coal in and then went down and took both vessels in tow again. Arrived in Ballina at 9 p.m.
27th July. Left Lismore with the Saucy Jack at 2.30 p.m. Stayed at Sherlocks for the night. We have some maize to take from here. Mrs. Lenos and children passengers to Coraki with us.
25th Sept. The Platypus steamer came in. At 10 a.m. flags up, got steam up and went down to the bar, Fenwick after us. At noon the vessel hoisted flags for steamer, so both Fenwick and ourselves went out. We got the vessel Rob Roy from New Caledonia, took her in and up to Wardell.
15th October. Towed the Atlanta out first thing this morning then Rob Roy, Examiner, Pioneer and Neptune. The Alchymist towed the Princess Louisa out and the Platypus steamed in. Started at 5 p.m. for Coraki.
30th October. I went down to North Head this morning. The Victory was stuck there and made as for the Clarence. After we left the Margarette we went after him but we stopped our engines after going about three miles south of the bar till 12.30 p.m. when the Storm King hove in sight so we went to meet him, but Fenwick being ahead got there first. Jackson would not take him, so we got the Storm King after all and towed him in at 4.30 p.m.
23rd October. The Emma Jane sailed in at 3 p.m. We went down to meet her, Fenwick after us, Fenwick reached her first so he got her.
16th December. Started work at 3.45 a.m. Took 40 baskets of coal in and then went out over the bar for the Bertha, then took the Princess Louisa out and then the Rob Roy, brought May Peverly in and the Octoroon out.
27th December. Regatta in Ballina today. George and Fenwick sailing Wigmore’s boat. They won the race they were in, storm came on during the last race.
14th January, 1876.Found the Douglas, School Boy and Amphitrite below the crossing, moored with anchors, we could not move them.
18th February. Very heavy rain. The Atlanta tried to get under weigh but she drifted in close to the break, so at noon we took hold of her and left her about a mile to the eastward of the Heads and then proceeded on our way to Sydney. At 7 p.m. off Tacking Point.
23rd February. We arrived at Pyrmont Bridge at 3 a.m. yesterday, out today and met Bill Paine and Tom Mountain both old friends.
22nd April. Left the Bertha outside at 7 a.m. and the Pioneer at 8 a.m. Heavy break on the bar, both vessels shipped heavy seas.
24th April. The Margarette and School Boy outside at 8 a.m. we went out for the Margarette. Shipped a great deal of water, smashed some of our woodwork, but got the Margarette in safely. The School Boy came in after us, was nearly gone, the wind changed just as she was in the break.
29th April. Towed the Amphitrite and Saucy Jack out this morning. Fenwick towed the May Peverly, Perseverance, Monarch and Alice Jane out.
5th May. Heavy rain. Wallace and Bruce sighted land and made for the bar. Before we could get down they had her in the break coming in. Wind changed and she drifted on to the south break alongside the Susannah Cuthbert. We got to her before she got too far on and managed to take her off after a narrow escape for both of us.
16th May. Heavy showers of rain during the day. Amphitrite hove in sight at 11 a.m. Fenwick and ourselves after vessel. We got her also Perseverance and Saucy Jack. Started with three up river.
26th May. Raining all day long. Went out and sounded the bar, only 8½ feet, flags up for vessel in offing. We went but she was standing out from North Head, waited till 1 p.m.; no sign of her coming in so we started for the bar, but the Margarette hove in sight and we towed her in.
2nd June. Beautiful day; took the Alice Jane in and up to Blackwall (Wardell), back to Ballina by noon. Went down to the bar; found Fenwick stuck on the bar, Louisa outside. Fenwick got off just as we got near him, but he thought he had better return to Ballina, so we went out and brought the Louisa in, then took the Atlanta out, and after sunset brought the Wallace and Bruce in. The Examiner in sight, but not far enough up to get in tonight,
3rd June. Beautiful day, went out this morning to take passengers from the Examiner, Miss Farrow being one of the passengers. Only seven feet of water on the bar. We took the Rob Roy in and Alpha out and Examiner in. Fenwick took the Storm King in.
4th July. Beautiful day. Started with the vessels from Blackwall at 6.30 a.m. and arrived at Lismore at 1 p.m.; left again at 2 p.m. and reached Oakfield (father’s) at 6 p.m. (Captain McKinnon and Miss Farrow were married at Oakfield by Rev. H. Livingston on the evening of the 4th July).
6th July. Very heavy sea on bar, no chance to take any out. All the vessels (6) and the steamer Platypus decorated with bunting in our honour, so I stood treat to each vessel and to the steamer.
31st July. Beautiful day, but a heavy sea on bar. Wallace and Bruce outside. After dinner we went out to her. In coming in a heavy sea carried her in on its crest till she got, if anything, ahead of us, and they very foolishly let our line go, and the consequence was that they were nearly ashore on the outer North Spit before we got another aboard. We both got in safely and we towed the vessel up to Blackwall.
15th August. Fenwick and ourselves out by 5 a.m. Fenwick got on the Monarch, and we got the Octoroon and Alice Jane. No more in sight, so we started off for Wyrallah with the Borough Belle, Examiner and the Octoroon for Blackwall. Fenwick started at the same time with the Perseverance and Monarch for Lismore.
18th August. Fenwick and ourselves started for the bar at 5 a.m. He got to the Margarette first, so got her. We got a little schooner called the Fearless. He also got the Saucy Jack, May Peverley and Amphitrite. We got the Lizzie Davis, Atlanta, Storm King, Emma Jane and Samuel Merritt, barque. The School Boy sailed in.
20th August. We coaled early this morning, intending to go up river, but the Wallace and Bruce hove in sight, so we went out to him. Shipped some heavy seas and lost my glasses overboard. Got in all right, and then started up river with the Wallace and Bruce and the Atlanta. The Summer Rose would not take a tug yesterday, consequence is she is on the North Spit.
2nd September. Reached Coraki 2 a.m. from Lismore with Samuel Merrit and Borough Belle. We were struck at the Rocks at the junction near Coraki for some time. Mr. Hunter, who died yesterday in Coraki, was buried today.
28th September. A beautiful day. Took the Alice Jane out and helped the Emma (steamer) in and then went away along the beach fishing; caught 40 schnapper.
11th October. Went outside at break of day; found Fenwick out before us. He went to the southward and we went to the fishing grounds, and in two hours caught 150 schnapper. Fenwick went up to Blackwall by himself for the Neptune.
18th November. A new schooner, the Edith Keep and the Alice Jane in the offing. Fenwick was out first, so he got the new one and we the Alice Jane.
25th November. Neptune, Bertha, Saucy Jack, Lavina, Undine, Resolute, Rob Roy, Wallace and Bruce, all sailed in; we took them all round the spit except the Neptune; she got stuck on us.
N.B. 25th September, ’75.”The Platypus steamer in.” This was the first trip of this steamer to the Richmond, and this occasion marked the commencement of the first regular service between Sydney and Lismore. The vessel was owned by the Richmond and Clarence Steamship Co., and later became the N.C.S.N. Co., Ltd. The Platypus was a small screw boat commanded by John McGee. Several steamers came before this, but were not retained in the service.
21st October, ’75.Capt. McKinnon’s reference to Storm King, “Jackson would not take him. . .” This was Capt. Harry Jackson, then in command of the Storm King, and later well known as the captain of the s.s. Tomki.
The reference to Fenwick giving Lowrie a thrashing for breaking his word, was typical of Tom Fenwick.
Courtesy of Trove Northern Star 9 October 1926
IN THE SEVENTIES
AMONGST THE SHIPS
A SAILOR’S DIARY
Further extracts from the diary of the late Capt. L. McKinnon:—
1876
26th December, 1876.—Our regatta held in Ballina today. We had our own people and Captains Mountain, Lowry, Smith, Capt. and Mrs. Wright here to dinner and tea. I sailed Whigmore’s boat; did no good; our chain plate gave way, so we had to put into the wharf.
30th December.—Went down to the bar to meet the vessels as they came in. The Alpha got on the Spit, but eventually got off and sailed up to Ballina. We gave the
Jack, Neptune and Margurite a help up. The Edith Keep sailed in and up on her own.
1877
1st. January.—Arrived at Lismore at 1 a.m. with Saucy Jack, Margarette, Lavina and Princess Louisa in tow. Left again at 7 a.m., took the Margarette back to Wyrallah, her raft being there. Reached Coraki at 11 a.m. The Examiner will not be ready till tomorrow morning. We went up home (Oakfield) for remainder of the day. Found a number of friends there; all enjoyed ourselves very much indeed.
13th January.—The Victory, Amphitrite, Perseverance, Monarch, Ocean Bride, Wallace and Bruce came in this morning. The Venus, Emma Jane, Leonidas came in also. The Samuel Merritt barque came in, but got stuck inside the bar. After dark, Fenwick took Wallace and Bruce up to Blackwall, also Monarch and Venus.
14th January.—Towed the Examiner up to the township in the morning and the evening took the Storm King and Rob Roy. This is Fenwick’s Sunday off.
15th January.—Blowing a heavy gale from the south. Fenwick started at 5 a.m. with the Victory, Rob Roy and Perseverance. He got as far as Broadwater with them, but could get no further; had to wait till mid night. We started at 6.30 a.m. with the Examiner and Amphitrite; got as far as Pimlico and had to leave them there; then went on with the Dancing Wave and Atlanta. Came back to Ballina and coaled and then started off with the Ocean Bride, but could not get her round the point; the wind was so strong.
21st January.—School Boy sailed in this evening. This is our Sunday off. Fenwick on duty at the bar if required.
22nd January.—Raining most of the day; we have been at the Index all day, and worked till 6 p.m. Fenwick came up with the School Boy and Examiner. The Agnes Irvine steamer came up at noon.
30th January.—Very hot day; found the starboard boiler in a very bad state, worse than we thought. Put the rudder on again after making it six inches broader. Agnes Irving passed down at 6 p.m. and the Bertha at 8 p.m., being towed by her own boat.
10th February.—Towed the Perseverance, Atlanta, Lady Robinson, Ocean Bride and Amphitrite up from the bar to Ballina, then on the Blackwall; then took the Edith Kepp, Rob Roy, Margarette and Emma Jane to Lismore.
17th February.—Weather looks very bad. Towed the Wallace and Bruce out, then the Alpha and Ocean Bride. We were to go to Lismore tonight, but we are all tired out, so will wait till early morning.
27th February.—Went out at daylight this morning. Archie (Fenwick) ahead of us. Saw the Alice Jane about six miles off, and the Victory about three miles. Archie passed the Alice Jane and came back and got the Victory, the largest vessel. We took the Alice Jane in and then the Louisa. Archie took the May Grant out.
1st March.—A beautiful day. No vessels about today. We attended the Mutual Improvement Society’s meeting—Mrs. Wigmore, and Mrs. Herbert, Mr. Russel, Hunter and others; I gave a recitation.
7th March.—Arrived in Coraki 7.30 a.m.; left again at 9 a.m., and arrived at Ballina at 2.30 p.m. Found Fenwick’s new tug, Francis Hixson, had arrived during our absence, also a barque, Peony, had been wrecked about four miles along the south beach; the captain and four sailors drowned. Captain’s wife and five men saved. Made a collection for the survivors; we all gave 10s each.
10th March:—Took Wallace and Bruce out this morning, then started for Coraki with the Margurite. Took the Atlantic from Blackwall for Lismore. Yeager took the Little Atlanta from Coraki to Lismore. We got the Bertha from John McInnes, School Boy from Coraki, and Victory from Yeager’s, and reached Rocky Mouth at midnight; waiting till daylight.
12th March.—Towed the Victory, Bertha and School Boy out. Went fishing for a spell today. I caught 40 schnapper, George 45, McLean 18, beside a small bucketful of mackerel. Fenwick came out as well; he is staying out all night.
11th May.—Fenwick took the Neptune and Venus in today. James Webster came in this morning with Victoria, steamer for a river boat.
14th July.—Beautiful day; strong fresh in the North Arm, and a great deal of timber coming down. Started for Ballina at 8 a.m. with six or seven Lismore men. They have two boats with them. They are going down the river to look for timber that broke away in the fresh. We passed some of it at Dawson’s. They left us at Bakers.
15th July.—Margarette off the bar; managed to get the start from Fenwick, and got her, but could not take her in till noon.
17th July.—Beautiful day; Fenwick started at 9 a.m., so we let lines go and off too. We had a race to the bar; rather a heavy sea, but we got the Alpha, and Fenwick the Ocean Bride. Took Alpha to Coraki, where we are staying all night.
13th August.—Splendid day. Fenwick took the Wallace and Bruce in today. Dun can (late D. McKinnon) down with the Triton this evening; Mr. Yabsley down tonight; came down to disband us. The Index was handed over to its owner, Mr. Yabsley, on the 16th August.
17th August.—Southerly wind. Platypus came up to Yeager’s at 8 p.m. Drying sugar with John (Mr. J. McKinnon, Oakfield). Attended a meeting of the Mutual Improvement Society at Coraki tonight. I gave recitation, “Derry Downdale.”
20th August.—I cleaned and painted the engine today; Charlie McLean left us this morning; he is going back to Scotland.
21st August.—S. Donald (Mr. D. McKinnon, Oakfield) and Sandy (late A. McKinnon, of Oakfield) drawing firewood with bullocks and horses. John preparing things in the mill ready for work. I was cleaning and painting engines. Triton and Cupitt’s steamers went up the river today.
29th September.—Beautiful day; cutting cane till dinner time. Donald away down to Buckendoon to play cricket. After dinner Sandy, Dick and myself went shooting. I got a swan and a duck; Dick got four snipe and a duck; Sandy got nothing.
13th October. Beautiful day. After dinner went out shooting and got seven ducks first shot; four with second shot, and one with the third shot. Took two home and left the rest at mother’s.
1st December.—A very hot day. Old chaps playing cricket match at Coraki between Rocky Mouth and Coraki. The Rocky Mouth team won on the first innings.
3rd December. Beautiful day. Went down to see Mr. Yabsley, and decided that I would take charge of the Examiner. The Examiner is now in Sydney, and I have to go to Sydney by the Platypus next trip.
7th December.—Beautiful day. Left home at 8 a.m.; went down to Yeager’s, where I went aboard the Platypus for Sydney, where I take charge of the Examiner.
14th December.—N.S. Arrived at the company’s wharf at 1 p.m.; went aboard the Examiner at once. Found the mate there. Vessel has to be docked.
22nd December.—N.E. Paid towage of steamer to Rushcutter’s Bay and 800 gallons of water, £1 7s. Our cook did not put in an appearance, so we had to get another.
24th December.—S.E. Got under weigh at 9 a.m. The Wallace and Bruce stood away at Broken Bay.
30th December.—S.W. Fresh breeze. Set foresail at 3 a.m. Platypus went in at 6 a.m. Fenwick came out and towed us in at 8 a.m. Started with us at 6 p.m. for Coraki.
31st December. S., and towards evening round to east. Arrived at Coraki at 4.30 a.m.; made fast. Afterwards shifted higher up and started discharging cargo. Had it all out by 4 p.m. Then got derrick and gear ready and started taking cargo in at 4 p.m. Left off at 6 p.m.; went off home, found them all well; stayed at home all night.
1878
1st January.—A beautiful day, N.E. wind. Went down to the vessel after breakfast to have a look round, back home by noon. Had dinner and tea at father’s , it being New Year’s day. After tea the young people had a dance; we stayed till 11 p.m., when we went off home.
2nd January.—N.E., very sultry all day. Finished loading at 6 p.m. Caulkers at work about the decks. Our cook not fit to work through drink. Over at father’s after tea.
3rd January.—Fresh. Filled the water tank in the morning and getting firewood after breakfast. After dinner slewed the vessel round ready to start down river, but the steamer did not come for us. Cook still on the spree.
4th January.—S.; blowing fresh and showery. Went up home at 8 p.m. Wife came back with me at 9 p.m.; wife going to Sydney with me this trip. The little steamer went up the river during the day with a vessel and got back again at 8 p.m.
9th January.—A beautiful day, sea going down fast. I went out with Fenwick and sounded the bar at 11 a.m.; found water enough there so he took the Atlanta out at noon and left us outside at 1 p.m. Two miles to the eastward of North Solitary at 11.30 p.m.
11th January.—N.N.E.; very hazy; could not make out the land till we were close on the Heads at 10 a.m.; let go the anchor at Pyrmont Bay at noon.
12th January.—Started to discharge cargo at 7 a.m., worked till 4 p.m.; discharged 64 logs today.
17th January.—N.E. Busy at the vessel all day. Wife went ashore for tea at cousin Jessie’s (mother of Mr. W. R. Williams, Coraki). I went for her at 7 p.m. School Boy came in at 7 p.m.
19th January.—Wife aboard at 6 a.m. Mr. and Mrs. Cook at 7 a.m. Omea, steamer, took us down the harbour and we cleared the Heads at 9 a.m. Victory and Wallace and Bruce a little ahead of us.
23rd January.—S.E. Off the bar at 10 a.m.; Fenwick came out and towed us in, also Lizzie Davis, Victory, and Wallace, and Bruce, and the Examiner. Left the Wallace and Bruce at Blackwall. Landed Mr. and Mrs. Cook at their own place.
24th January.—S.; very showery. Took the wife up home at 7 a.m., back at vessels at 11 a.m. Discharged our ballast; went home after 6 p.m.
5th February.—Showers of rain all day. They got the steamer Platypus off tonight. She has been stuck near the bar since 26th January. No chance of getting out as yet.
6th February.—Easterly and a nasty sea on, but Fenwick managed to get us out, also Saucy Sue and Monarch.
8th February.—N.E. Blowing fresh and raining all day. Towed up from Garden Is land and moored her before breakfast. Went over to see Mr. Cox. Did some business for Mr. Geo. Rose, of Coraki.
9th February.—N.E.; heavy showers of rain. Discharging timber all day. I bought a double barrel gun today for £3 5s. Went to the Victory Theatre tonight to see a piece played called “A new way of paying an old debt.”
12th February.—Beautiful day; went across to Sydney for breakfast. Did shopping for Tenos and Pat Hyland. Finished discharging our cargo and then took in 24 tons of ballast. We hear that a fleet of 60 or 70 vessels cleared out from Sydney for the different rivers yesterday. They must have head winds today.
15th February.—S.E. Rounded the South Head reef at 6.30, at 5.30 p.m. got through between Seal Rocks and the point as she would not fetch to windward of them for us. The City of Grafton, steamer, went out at 5 p.m. and we passed her between Port Stephens and Long Island.
16th February.—A real dirty day, with constant rain. At 11 a.m. passed the Alpha under fore and aft canvas, bound north; also passed the Amphitrite bound north.
17th February.—E. Fearful rain today. We crossed in over the bar at 7 a.m.; no pilot. In sailing up to Ballina we got on the corner of the flat; run out big anchor and 60 fathoms chain.
18th February.—Very dirty weather; managed to get vessel off by noon; sailed up to Ballina. Louisa sailed in at 3 p.m. Triton down with coals for the Platypus to tow the Amphitrite up.
27th February.—S.S.E.; fresh and showery. Our second mate and one of the men laid up with coals. The Pioneer sailed in at 4 p.m., they came from Melbourne.
1st March.—S.E.; fresh and showery. Two shipwrecked men from the wreck of the Star of the Sea schooner at the Brunswick came aboard here to get a passage to Sydney, so I gave it to them. Second mate and man getting better.
2nd March. S.E. Light to what it has been all the week. Fenwick took Neptune and Monarch down last night and Saucy Jack and Victory today. Duncan (late D. McKinnon) got down this morning with the Amphitrite. Fenwick took the Wallace and Bruce out this morning. Too much sea on, could only get 8 feet 6 inches on the inner part of the bar, 11 feet on the bar itself. Fishing on the beach after dinner; caught 37 bream and whiting.
3rd March.—E. Towed out this morning at 9 o’clock.
5th March,—Entered Sydney Heads at 2.30 p.m. Dropped anchor in Pyrmont Bay. Number of vessels in way, could not get to the wharf without help from a steamer.
12th March.—N.E. Drying sails today. Schoolboy arrived at 6 p.m., Amphitrite at 2 p.m., Neptune and Saucy Jack at 4 p.m., and Edith Keep at 5 p.m. The City of Grafton arrived at noon. Received a letter from Mr. Yabsley about some goods he wants us to take up, so we are to get them tomorrow.
16th March.—Number of vessels got under weigh at 5 p.m., and at the same time a southerly buster came up and they had to seek shelter in some of the bays (Sydney Harbour) running under bare poles, and some of them lost their sails. A number pf yachts had a sailing match and some of them came to grief, losing sails and spars, getting on the rocks.
17th March.—S.S.E. Looks very dirty on it. Brown, of the Neptune, aboard at 6 a.m.; he went back again after breakfast. The Manly came along and took us outside for £2 10s.
28th March.—Taking cargo in all day, finished about 4 p.m.; 116 logs. We are not going to make her deep this time. We have 19 bags of corn and 69 hides for Sydney. Slewed vessel round ready for starting down river.
2nd April.—Fenwick left us outside at 8.30 a.m. Nasty bump of a sea.
6th April.—Entered Sydney Heads at midnight. Steamer Manly towed us up to the wharf at 7 a.m.
11th April.—We got the last of our ballast in at 8 a.m.; had to wait for another order for goods. Started at 1 p.m. with a little steamer, but the wind hauling to the eastward I had to take the Manly to get us out. Bought a pair of sculls to take to the river for 24s.
14th April.—Fenwick came and towed Lucy Ravel, Venue, Atlanta and ourselves (Examiner) up to Blackwall, where he left us for the day. We crossed in at 5.30 p.m. yesterday.
15th April.—Beautiful day. Started from Blackball at 5 a.m., arrived at Coraki at 11 a.m. Discharged our ballast and after dinner moored her properly; went up home after 5 p.m.; found them all well excepting mother, who seems very sick.
20th April.—Fenwick left us outside at 11 a.m. Dragged over the bar; only 8 feet 6 inches on bar, and we drawing 8 feet 3 inches.
24th April.—South. At 2 p.m. tacked off North Head, Broken Bay, and stood E.S.E. till 8 a.m. Every appearance of southerly weather coming up, but kept along the land. At 8 a.m. went about, and as she did the wind hauled in S.W., taking off as the day advances, till 3 p.m., when we were four miles off Barrenjoey, when it fell away to a dead calm. At 4 p.m. a light easterly sprang up and at 6 p.m. a N.S., so that we managed to enter the Heads and drop anchor in Double Bay at 9.30 p.m.
25th April.—Westerly wind. Towed up the Harbour before breakfast; moored after breakfast, then across to Sydney. Saw Mr. Cox about getting rafting gear from Hudson. Discharged 26 logs today.
26th April.—N.W. Discharging timber all day. Cousin Charlie came aboard, telling me that Aunt Sherlock and Cousin Kate are up from Shoalhaven, so I went ashore after tea and saw them. Had to get a boatman to bring me back.
30th April.—Started in the morning; cleared the Heads at 8 a.m., off Seal Rocks at 11 p.m.