THE LOSS OF THE STEAMER AUCKLAND.

Westport Times, Volume V, Issue 829, 24 June 1871, Page 3

THE LOSS OF THE STEAMER AUCKLAND.

Further particulars of the loss of this well-known colonial steamer are contained in Sydney papers received by the Rangitoto's mail. Mr Stewart, the chief officer, reports that the Auckland left Melbourne at twenty-five minutes to 3 p.m., and cleared Port Phillip Heads at ten minutes past 7 p.m. on the 25th ultimo, with an easterly breeze ; passed Wilson's Promontory, at half-past 8 a.m. on the 26th; wind N.E., fresh, and weather cloudy. From this point the usual north-easterly course was kept for Cape Howe. As night advanced, the weather became still more overcast and threatening, with an increasing breeze and heavy rain. Captain Walker and his chief officer kept the bridge, never leaving the look out for a moment, when, at 1 a.m., breakers were seen ahead. The engines were promptly stopped, and reversed to full speed astern, which was only the work of a moment—the machinery being in such admirable order —but all too late. The steamer struck the reef with a crash, which must have stove in several plates. The engines were kept going astern, and soundings taken round the ship, and cargo shifted from forward to aft to bring her by the stern. The boats were also got ready. Finding that she would not come off, Captain Walker, knowing that the s.s. Macedon was astern, fired rockets and bluelights, which were fortunately seen by the Macedon, which at once bore down. The boats were then lowered, and the passengers saffly transferred to the latter vessel, where they were most kindly received by Captain Pain. The boats then returned to the wreck, and got out the passengers' luggage, as also the mails, with the exception of two bags—all being placed safely on board the Macedon. A third trip was then made, but by this time the wind and sea had increased to such an extent that the Auckland could not be boarded, and it was with considerable difficulty that the boats reached the Macedon again. By this time day had broken. The Aucklaud was going nine knots when the order was given to stop and go astern. The site of the occurrence is stated to be on a reef between Cape Conran and Cape Everard, two and a half miles from the main land. The machinery of the Aucklaud is stated to have been in excellent working order. The Auckland had on board freight 50 tons of iron and 500 bags potatoes, as also the following passengers : Mrs Bennett and three children, Miss Clarke, Messrs M'Milieu, Peacock, Chapman, Gregory, J. Cullen, Pennester, and nine in the steerage.