THE S.S WAIPARA.

Grey River Argus, Volume XII, Issue 1345, 20 November 1872, Page 2

THE S.S WAIPARA.

The 8 a Waipara, long and favorably known on the West Coast as a tender to Messrs M'Meckan and Blackwood's Bteamers at Hokitika and Greymouth, arrived here on the 24th July, was hauled up close to the Stuart street jetty, cut in halves, and lengthened lOftfiinJamidflhips, by Messrs Rincaid and

M'Quceri, of the Vulcan Foundry. The same firm fitted a new boiler, received from Melbourne, thoroughly overhauled her machinery, and provided now pistons. Tho wholo of their work was under the supervision of Mr Douglas, local Government Inspector of Steamers. After being lengthened, a new house was built amidships on deck, forming snug, comfortable ladies' aud gentlemen's cabins, handsomely fitted with crimson velvet cushions. Tho painting of both cabins is maple and walnut, showing a fine pleasing contrast. On Friday evening last the whole of tho alterations and repairs were completed to the entire satisfaction of her enterprising owner, Mr Bonar, and on Saturday, at noon, she made a trial trip to Port Chalmers, under the command of her old master, Captain Bascand, who, some years ago, was well-known here in connection with the river traffic. Mr Bonar, Mr R. B. Martiu, her agent, and several other gentlemen accompanied her. Deducting a stoppage made at Burko's Brewery for about 20 minutes, the actual steaming time to the Port jetty waa a few minutes under the Hour. The engines, although a little stiff, worked admirably, and after examination, Mr Douglas declared that he was highly satisfied. At the port she was swung and had her compasses adjusted by Captains Thomson and John Robertson, and returned i* the evening. Her engines are 30-horse power, and can be worked up to 50 ; the greatest speed attained on the trip was eight and a half knots, but when her machinery gets easier it is expected that nine knots will be logged. Her dimensions are— length, 96ft ; breadth, 15ft; and depth of hold, 7ft Cm.. On the trip, her draft was 3ft forward and sft aft. When loadel she will be on a moro even keel, and draw Gft aft, and about sft forward, thus admirably suiting tbo West Coast bar harbors, where she proceeds to-day . or to-morrow, taking car^o direct to Greymouth and Hokitika. Her former registered tonnage was 48 ; she is now about 70, and is expected to carry about 90 on the draft of water indicated above. Mr Bonar expressed himself highly satisfied with her performances, and the West Coast Bettlers will hail her arrival with pleasure, as she cannot but prove a boon to them. — Otago Times, Nov. 11.