A COLLISION

Hokitika Guardian, 3 January 1931, Page 1

A COLLISION

SCOW AND HUG

vßy Telegraph—Press Association)

WELLINGON, Jan. 2

When attempting to sail out from its berth at Queen’s wharf the auxiliary scow “Echo” collided with the Wellington Harbour Board’s Tug “Toia.” The scow escaped damage but its jib boom tore a fairly large hole in the side of the “Toia” and partially wrecked two cabins. A fresh northerly breze was blowing when the “Echo” left the berth about 4 o’clock bound to Blenheim. Her Master attempted to take her out under sail. It is stated one of the “Echo’s” twin auxiliary engines was out of action and the ship had swung round under all canvas and was heading Out to clear Queen’s Wharf. The scow bad cleared the inner tee of that wharf and was apparently not able to go sufficiently up into the wind to get past the next tee, at the outer end of which the “Toia.” was berthed. The jib boom of the “Echo” went clean through the side of the "Toia” under the forecastle head. The scow; came to a standstill with practically the full length of its jib boom inside the tug. The “Echo” remained locked in an unfortunate position while the lines' were run out alt, and with these and the assistance of the engine die was hauled clear. Apart from some minor scratches and splinteis the jib boom and its fittings were not visibly damaged, although some of the rigging may have been strained. The departure of the* “Echo was delayed until a survey could be made. -\ temporary patch has been placed over the. hole in “Toia” which is some feet above the waterline.