This restoration is off to a good start and we expect continued growth. Most of this preliminary work is not visible but when complete, the much more visible replating task will commence. This type of work involves removal of the old sections by oxy cutting away the original rivets. The section is removed from the ship with chain blocks and taken to our workshop for replication. The new replacement is then returned to the ship and bolted in place.
Final work involves riveting in the new section.
How you can join in and help this project Sydney Heritage Fleet is a registered charity and donations are tax deductible. We know that the restoration of John Oxley will require significant funding and we are ask for assistance from industry, business and Government. Not all assistance needs to be financial already large amounts of electrical wire, paint, welding rods and gas have been donated along with tools and other materials. We are of course seeking much more in the form of steel plate and angle, timber for decking and many thousands of bolts, nuts and rivets. We would welcome any visitors to our site and would greatly appreciate any assistance that can be given.