Project to rebuild historic ferry Cartela doubles as a chance to restore a trade

THE restoration of Hobart’s historic ferry Cartela hopes to revive a trade older than the ship itself. WATCH THE VIDEO

THE restoration of Hobart’s historic ferry Cartela hopes to revive a trade older than the ship itself.

Funding is now being sought to employ budding shipwrights to continue the project which began just over two years ago.

The 104-year-old Cartela has been docked at Franklin since August 2014 while work has been done on restoring its hull, interior and original steam engine. The project, co-ordinated by the Steamship Cartela Trust, was initially expected to take four years and cost $4 million.

Project manager Ross James is eager to implement a four-year apprenticeship scheme which would enable young shipwrights to work on the vessel.

“We could start the training program now with appropriate funding from the Government,” he said.

“We want a training program, which will take four years, where trainees start their apprenticeships with Cartela and complete it when the Cartela returns to service.”

Cartela project manager Ross James inspects the vessel at Franklin. Pictures: SAM ROSEWARNE

Mr James said the refurbishment and cost of labour for qualified shipwrights – coupled with the cost of paying apprentices – would bring the project to $5 million.

He said $2.25 million was needed from the state or federal governments, with the rest to come from corporate and private sponsors, including $143,000 from the Tasmanian Community Fund.

Mr James said the trust had spoken to both levels of government about the need for grant money. He said the cost to modify a barge into a floating dry dock, to elevate the vessel, would be $250,000.

“As soon as we get the boat out of the water, we are able start work immediately.”

Inside the engine room onboard the Cartela in Franklin.

Shipwright David Nash is playing a role in the Cartela’s resoration.

Shipwright David Nash, who has been working as a consultant for the project, said he was excited by the restoration. He prepared a report on the woodwork for the vessel when the project began.

“I am hoping to be in charge of the timber restoration during the refurbishment,” he said.