Date

What was happening, and where.

Source

Notes

14 July, Saturday:

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP

7.15pm Captain Owen’s was at tea when the chief officer Mr Jones on the watch called ‘hard up’. Action was taken to avoid the land which had appeared (after a very foggy day) but the ship hit rock. Three attempts were made to pass a rope and anchor to the shore but this was postponed due to the dark night and high surf.

Captain Owen’s report

Karina: note that Capt Owen’s official report was based on ‘nautical time’ so his writings show the wreck itself happening on the 15^th.

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP

Extra watches were to be kept, and other precautions taken, but on the evening of the 14th, during a thick fog, the ship struck on a reef on the South West side of Kings Island.

The Captain had the lead line ready and intended to heave it at 8pm, but unfortunately we struck at 7.30pm.  We had just finished tea in the Saloon, the Captain, myself, and some of the passengers were still siting at the table when the Chief Officer (Mr Jones) called down the companion for the Captain to go on deck immediately as there were breakers ahead; and we heard him also tell the Quartermaster to put the helm hard up.

Before we had time to go on deck we felt the ship strike, but not very violently, as there was only a moderate breeze at the time. On reaching the deck, we found we had struck a reef, but being very foggy and dark at the time, we could not make out how far we were from land, but could see we were surrounded by breakers on every side.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP

It was about ½ past seven in the evening – we had been becalmed all day, with occasional showers of rain, but towards five o’clock the wind began to blow, a moderate breeze, and we were going about five knots an hour. About 6 o’clock the wind increased and we went through a squall of wind and ran about 8 knots – it again diminished and stars were making their appearance though the night was very misty and dark.

Shortly afterwards I heard the chief mate hollo out – land ahead, all hands on deck, back the main-yard and Crots Jack (pronounced crodget) hard down the stern. The last order was countermanded by the Captain to “hard up” and she struck upon a reef of rock. You can better imagine than I could describe to you the scene which took place after this.

I went to the chief mate and asked him what service I could render him and he told me “to get the pumps manned directly” – the Carpenter sounded the ship – and found 16 feet of water in the hold, - I saw it was no go directly and the night again became very dark, we could discern nothing save the white foam of the water breaking on a rock about five and twenty yards from the ship.

The chief mate again came in sight and I asked him for further orders – and he calmly replied “tell your friend to die like men and exhort the passengers to maintain tranquility”. He left me and went on to the poop and lowered the starboard lifeboat, and with six sailors made an exploration of the rock – in the space of ½ an hour he returned and informed us that the darkness was so intense he could see nothing but a slimy rock, but that it would be impossible to effect a landing the surf was running so high. During the time he was in the boat, the passengers and crew had endeavoured to launch the pinnace, they got it into the water but a sea came and stove it in and it was found next day entirely smashed on the rocks. There was no further attempt made to land that night, but the Captain said that with the morning light, if the wind decreased, we might all be saved.

The many anxious faces looking for the dawn of the 15th July 1866 I don’t think will be easily effaced from my memory!

Edwin Bellgrove’s letter

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP

On the 14th July we had been looking out for land for two days and it was so dull that the captain could not take an observation and did not know exactly where we were. Someone said they could see land and I daresay had it been a clear day we should have all seen it, at night we all felt it. It was about half past seven when she struck. Then to see them rush on deck groaning and praying. Some who had never prayed before.

They let a boat down but could not get ashore as the breakers were too heavy, when we looked over the side we could see land nearly all round, some places did not look more than two hundred yards off. The captain told us that we could not go ashore till morning. After they had burnt blue lights, and fired the Minute gun till they were tired. At every wave that came the vessel would groan and creak and roll as if she would go over all together and at every roll she gave you could hear the passengers from one end of the deck to the other groaning and shrieking till she settled herself except that now and then she would give thump against the rocks, then they sent some men down to get out some stores, and as soon as they got the hatches off, they saw that she was full of water. So they put us to the pumps, but it was no good. Neither was it necessary, as being hard and fast on the rocks she could not sick any further. So I went down below and put my land order and watch in one pocket and my bible and yours and Nancy's and or or two more likenesses in another.  

When I went on deck again it was a little lighter, it had left off raining and the moon was up, a moon only two months old, and by that sickly light we could see the land quite clearly, and very bad it looked. By this time most of the crew were drunk for instead of getting up provisions they had brought up rum, whisky and tobacco. As one man brought up a case, he said "heres some more whisky". Captain Owen's said "yes and I'm afraid whisky will be the loss of us tonight". 

As it was now about two oclock, I thought I would go and see if I could get a little sleep, so I went and laid down on one of the sailors bunks and slept till about five, when as it began to get a little lighter I got up. 

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP

Moderate breezes N. to N.N.E.; overcast sky; at 7 a.m. wind shifted to West; 9 p.m. south to S.E., with rain. Latter part light southerly wind, small rain, smooth water, no observation. Lat. 40.5 S, Long. 142.32 E. Noon. First part light wind from S. to S.W. thick with small rain; steered N.E. by E. until 4 p.m. altered to N.E. 1/2E; slight passing showers. At 7.15 p.m. whilst seated at the tea table, the Chief Officer who had the watch, was heard to say "hard up". The Captain immediately started up, and on his way to ascertain what was the matter, saw the Chief Officer on the companion ladder, calling out for him to go on deck. On the Captain reaching the deck, it was discovered that land was close to, a little on the starboard bow. Orders were then given to square the main and cross jack yards, the ship paying off from N.E. to 1/2E. to N. by W.1/2W. when she took the ground on a rocky bottom, with a reef stretching out to the west close under the bow. The ship was wrecked. The port lifeboat was then lowered to ascertain if a place could be found to land passengers as the ship was bumping severely and the surf striking on her stern and port quarter. Three attempts were made but no safe landing could be seen in the darkness, the surf breaking over the rocks in all directions; We had therefore to wait until daybreak approached in the greatest fear that the ship would break up through the night, as she heeled over to port bilging heavily, the sea breaking over the port or seaward side. By 8.30 p.m. the ship began to leak; the passengers manned the pumps and worked perseveringly, but to no avail, for before long the lee side between decks was under water, the purser with assistance endeavouring to save as much provision as possible out of the hold. The women and children collected in the fore cabin and saloon behaved themselves uncommonly well, awaiting the fate destined for them with the utmost patience. During the night the pinnace, a large lifeboat with a sail at each end, was attempted to be got off the skids and put overboard on the lee or sea side over the port quarter, but she was stove against the ship’s side and torn adrift, the men that were in her barely escaping with their lives. At daybreak the lifeboat was sent to make another attempt to find a landing place and carry a line out to the shore under the command of Mr. Jones, Chief Officer, which was with difficulty performed as the sea was breaking fearfully over the rocks. A line was eventually made fast to one of the rocks where the sea broke with the least violence, and at about 8 a.m. a commencement was made to land the passengers, women and children first. The debarkation of the passengers was superintended by the Captain and Doctor who were in attendance by the gangway from first to last to regulate the number of passengers who were to go in each boat, and to keep back a rush which was from time to time made to get into the boats. The two lifeboats were employed for that purpose, the one commanded by Mr. Jones, Chief Officer, and the other by Mr. Parry, Second Officer. Many of the passengers had to be dragged through the water up to the rocks, after which they had to make a circuit, wading through some inlets of the sea and over rocks again before they could set their feet on terra firma. The landing of all passengers was finally accomplished by 3 p.m. The first male passengers who landed went around to see if any fresh water was procurable, and to our great delight heard that at a distance of about a mile from where we landed, a spring was discovered, affording a plentiful supply of delicious water. As soon as landed, the passengers cut away the bushes to make a resting place for the night, and fires were kindled all round to warm themselves, as all were drenched to the skin. The Captain, Officers and crew then turned their attention to the landing of provisions, after which, at about 5.30 p.m., as it was considered running a great risk to remain on board during the night, the officers and crew came on shore in the gig as the two lifeboats, having got broadside onto the landing rocks, sustained damages which rendered them unseaworthy thus losing the last lot of provisions placed in them. Before leaving the ship it was deemed advisable, to relieve the ship as much as possible from bilging too heavily, to cut away the masts. That night, Sunday night, all were looking round to find some place to shelter themselves from the inclemency of the weather. The chopping of trees and the crackling of green wood and smaller scrub in the fires which were kindled resounded on all sides. Occasional showers of rain added to the misery of all for none had dry clothing to change into. These occurrences occupied 36 hours on the Western side of King’s Island on which the "Netherby" was wrecked in Lat. 39-53S.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

15 July, Sunday:

ON KING ISLAND, COMING ASHORE FROM SHIP.

Chief Officer Jones and Second Officer Parry finally got a line to the beach around 7am and by 9am they were each manning lifeboats and ferrying passengers ashore. Everyone was ashore by 3pm with no loss of life or accident.

Passengers and crew began making huts from the sails and brushwood and fires were lit.

Captain Owen’s report

KING ISLAND, COMING ASHORE FROM SHIP.

At day break (6am) July 15th Captain Owens sent the Chief Officer ashore on a boat with a kedge anchor and hawser, to find a landing place, and to make fast a line from the ship to the shore so that the boat could be passed along, as it was impossible to pull through the surf. He succeeded in doing this, and at 7.30am, after the passengers had had some coffee and biscuit, we commenced landing them. A rope ladder was put over the side and made fast. Constables were placed to keep the people back, as everyone was anxious to get away, and we sent some of the married men ashore to assist the women in landing, as they had to go throught to surf. 

I stood on the bulwark, and helped them up on the inside and passed them over to the Captain who was half way down the ladder, and he passed them down to the Chief Officer who was in the boat below. There was a good eal of sea on at the time, and sometimes the boat was carried away from beneath the ladder, so we had to watch for an opportunity and drop them into the boat. Two of the women fell into the water, but were picked up again. We could only use two boats at a time, and sent about 20 in each boat. We managed to get them all safely off by 4pm, but one of the boats was stove in against the rocks and rendered useless.

I remained on board until dusk with the Captain and his crew, assisting in getting up stores, sails etc, and sending them ashore. We also cut away the masts to ease the ship, and as the foremast fell, it smashed the long boat to pieces, and our remaining life boat had her side stove in while landing stores. The only remaining boat was the pinnace which we had great difficulty in launching from the ship.  The Captain and myself were the ast to leave the ship. And we had to wade ashore through the surf for about 100 yards.

On landing we found the passengers had lighted fires, were drying clothes, making dampers, etc. There was plenty of wood on the Island, and they had found water about a mile and a half from where we were wrecked. We kept large fires during the night, but it was extremely cold, and a very heavy dew, so few of us had any rest.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, COMING ASHORE FROM SHIP

The night was passed by the fearful in prayer; by a great part of the brute creation in drunkenness – they having broken open the spirit store – but by myself and a few more endeavouring to get down to the hold for provisions. The chief mate asked for a volunteer to go down the hole – I stripped myself down and went, but the water was so dreadfully cold after I had been down about ½ an hour I had to be brought up. They gave me some whisky and I went into the cuddy and smoked a pipe and had some coffee and got all sound again, - there I got two cups of coffee and a little piece of bread which is all I had till Monday morning. The whole of Sunday was taken up landing the passengers – the women and children coming off first. I left the ship about 4 o’clock Sunday afternoon with a few others and the chief mate, we all had to swim ashore about twenty yards for both lifeboats and the long boat and pinnace were ashore landing the women – they were beaten against the rocks and we only had the Captain’s Gig left.

The Captain could not tell exactly where he was, but fancied Kings Island which afterwards proved correct.

Edwin Bellgrove’s letter

KING ISLAND, ON BOARD SHIP, THEN ASHORE AT WRECK SITE

You may be sure I had not undressed that night, it was Sunday morning, but I did not lie in bed waiting to hear the eight oclock bell go, or get up so as to be ready when Walter called for me to go to church with him. At about six oclock the first mate went ashore with a rope and a small anchor which he fixed on the rocks and as one end was made fast on board, they hauled the boat backwards and forwards by it, they first took a dozen single men ashore to help in the landing of the women and children. Then the women went and after that we went as quick as you like.

They told us to make bundles of our most valuable things we had and they would be sent ashore after us, and as I thought that was very reasonable, I went below and made a bundle of all I had, watch, bible, and everything except the "land order" and thats all I saved. I got ashore about eight oclock and I was wet through (we could not get ashore without getting wet up to over our eyes).

I went for a walk along the shore to dry myself. Such a shore I never saw before. Nothing but rocks with pieces of timber strewn in every direction, from the wrecks that had been there for years. As I walked along I saw plenty of wild ducks and other birds that I have never seen before, also traces of animals that I had never seen before which I afterwards found out to be Kangaroos, also some large bones that I could not understand at all, some were so large that I could not lift them, but I was told afterwards that they were Whale bones that had been washed ashore. I saw some very large black birds that were so tame you could get within a yard of them, but they were not tame enough to let me take one back for dinner. 

I got back about two oclock and found that all the passengers were ashore and lighted fires, and some were drying themselves while others were building huts of branches of firs and shrubs which were plentiful enough, fourteen of us made a hut together and bought in some some feathery shrub to lay on. At about six oclock they served out a quarter of a pannican of flour to each of us, which was hardly a quarter of a pound. That mixed with a little water and baked in the ashes was all we had for supper that night, after a twenty four hour fast. After supper we laid down to try and get to sleep, and considering that I had very little the night before and the others had had none. You would have thought we might have slept well. But there was no such luck for as the hut being built badly the smoke of the fire blew all ways and we could not breath with out getting a mouth full of it and as it was very cold and we had but one blanket between two of us you may imagine what a pleasant Sunday night it was.

George Massingham’s letter

16 July, Monday:

ON KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Second Officer John Parry and 6 men (William Henry Attwood, Henry P Bluett, Gordon F Springett, Edwin Bellgrove, Robert Stanley and George Joseph Ashton Evans) walked some 48 km over 4 days to the Cape Wickham lighthouse to seek help carrying a note which read “Send help and succour to 500 shipwrecked people from the ship Netherby. Owen Owens, Master”. They also carried letters from Dr Marshall Hall Webster for the Chief Secretary and another from Captain Owens to the ships agents in Melbourne, Bright Brothers.

It was undertaken to land as many provisions as possible.

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

After having held a consultation with the surgeon superintendent, and several of the leading gentlemen of the saloon and second cabin, it was considered advisable to despatch a party over the island to the lighthouse on the north part of the island, to ascertain if communication could be effected with the mainland by telegraph, which was known to exist a few years previously. Consequently, Mr Parry, the second officer, with a party of volunteers, gentlemen of the second cabin, were sent off, about 7am, with a fistful of small bread each, as the only scanty supply of provisions which could be spared, bearing three letters – one from the surgeon-superintendent to the colonial office in Melbourne, and two from myself; one to Bright Brothers, of Melbourne requesting immediate assistance; and another to the superintendent of the lighthouse, asking what supply of provisions he could spare in case of urgent need.

We directed our attention to the landing of provisions for the famishing passengers. We succeeded in saving, this day, 18 casks of flour, 6 bags of bread and a quantity of passengers’ luggage. Rations, half pound flour and biscuit given in addition to the women and children.

During the day the passengers were formed into messes, and each mess erected a temporary hut for itself, consisting of a framework of boughs, covered with sails, tablecloths, or anything that could be got, so that they enjoyed comfort as compared with the previous day, and the greatest order prevailed until night fell.

Captain Owens report

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 16th - we found by serving out 1/4 lb of flour daily to each person, there was sufficient to last two weeks, and also some biscuit for the women and children. We also had 1/2 a pig which had been killed a day or two ago, and was kept for the ladies in the Saloon. A case of wine and one of gin was kept, in case of sickness.

At 8am, I consulted with Captain Owens and Mr Townsend (Saloon passenger), and we agreed to send an Officer and four passengers to walk to the light house which we supposed about 30 miles distant. So at 9am Mr Parry (2nd Officer) and four passengers left the camp with instruction to keep round the coast till they reached the light house, and then to communicate with shore by telegraph or any available means. I worte a letter to the Colonial Secretary, Melbourne, of which I append a copy, and Captain Owens wrote to Messrs. Bright Brothers.

The remainder of the day we were employed getting stores, sails, etc from the ship by means of the pinnace, the only boat left. All the stores were collected in one place and covered with a sail, and I appointed constables to watch day and night in case anyone should steal them. Passengers began making huts with scrub wood, sails, etc, and succeeded in making themselves pretty comfortable.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE

As soon as it began to get light we began to stir. My head ached fearfully from the smoking I had received it was very cold and I shook from the effects of the wetting I had received and I was very hungry, so altogether I was not in what you may call good condition.  While some of us stayed at home to build a good house, others went to chop wood for the fire, some cut branches for us to build with and the rest went down to see what they could pick up on the rocks. The crew were already aboard cutting away the masts and very soon all three masts were overboard, this was done that they might not strain the vessel.

At about nine they got two barrels of oatmeal ashore and served us out a quarter of a pannican each with which we made porridge, and some that had gone to the rocks had brought back about a peck of winkles and limpets, but although the winkles were quite green and rank we thought very nice.  By night we had built a tidy shanty we had made as thick as we could to keep the wind out, that night we slept much warmer than we did the night before.  

Monday morning Mr Parry the second mate and a half a dozen of the strongest of the men had started to go round the island in search of a lighthouse, which the captain said was only thirty miles off.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

At 8 a.m. a party of six passengers volunteered to walk to the Lighthouse situated on the Northern part of King’s Island under the command of Mr. Parry 2nd Officer, and started for that purpose having a letter from the Surgeon Superintendent to the Colonial Secretary of Melbourne, and two from the Captain, one for the officer in charge of the Lighthouse and the other for the agents of the ship in Melbourne. The Captain, carpenter and crew did their utmost to land as much provision, baggage etc. as possible. Provisions served out this day were 1/4lb. flour to each adult, women and children having a small portion of biscuit allowed them in addition.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY.

On Monday morning at daybreak we arose from our encampment – it was very cold, it being winter time here. I had saved a rug which served to cover me. I felt uncommonly well, but fearfully hungry, not having tasted anything for twenty-four hours – anyhow they wanted six volunteers to search for succour. The Captain gave us the bearing of a lighthouse which he supposed to be on the island about 35 miles to the North. Mr Parry, the second mate, with five others and myself started, we were allowed three days provisions, which was 1 ½ ship’s biscuit between 7 – we started and at sunset on Monday – after a terrible walk over rocks and through bush – we encamped for the night. Captain Bluett, one of our party – a passenger – took account of the provisions and he gave each man five pieces of the biscuit about as large as your thumb-nail, we were not long devouring them you may be sure. We had each of us a piece of tobacco and with this and a fire lit of good strong large pieces of wood, we sat down and made ourselves happy under the circumstances. We all gave a song and went to sleep, taking the earth for a bed, a stone for a pillow and the canopy of heaven for a covering – after the Patriarch Jacob’s style.

Edwin Bellgrove’s letter

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY.

On Monday morning Mr Parry was ordered to go and seek relief. Volunteers were called for, and the following persons gave their services:- Messrs Attwood, Bluett, Springett, Belgrove, Stanley and Evans.

We started from the camp with only 1 ½ lbs of biscuit, a bottle of gin, and some coffee. After having travelled over a very rough and rugged shore, we encamped about 4pm, and had a small allowance of biscuit each, and then had a rest, which we much needed.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

17 July, Tuesday:

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

The life-boat was repaired and the officers and men exerted themselves to save more provisions and passengers baggage, the passengers greatly needing it, as many were in a state of destitution, especially the women and children who had come ashore as they stood, without any change of raiment or a blanket to give them at night. Those who had anything to spare distributed it freely to the most destitute. Rations ½ lb flour, a little oatmeal, and ¼ lb salt meat which has been saved, to each adult daily.

Captain Owen’s report

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 17th - Employed all day getting stores from the ship. She still lies in the same position. Not much surf today. Gave instructions that all clothing, etc washed ashore should be brought to the shore where they would be exhibited every morning at 10 oclock, and any unclaimed articles would be given away to the most destitute. Some kangaroos and wallabys were shot today, also a few birds.

Mrs Cubbins, steerage passenger, was confined this evening at 8 oclock of a girl, both she and the child are doing extremely well. A tent has been formed with tarpaulin and she has been supplied with bedding and baby linen, etc from some of the other passengers.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

On Tuesday they served us out a little pork, which with a bird one of the party shot, we made a stew, which soon disappeared. The man who brought home the bird, had been out all day with two more men to have shot a kangaroo, but with wandering all day up the hills and down the valleys with nothing to eat, they were forced to return with nothing but a bird, which when plucked, looked more fit carrion than anything else.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE

After effecting some repairs to one Lifeboat, the other being abandoned, the Captain with the crew, assisted by some passengers, succeeded in saving some more provisions and passenger’s luggage as many of the passengers were in a state of destitution.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY.

We arose on Tuesday about one hour before daybreak awfully cold. We had found water the night before (always taking care to find water before we stopped) and upon it we found about ¼ of an inch of ice, but though it was cold, the ice repaid us in the morning it being both eat and drink.

We travelled Tuesday until about ½ past one or two o’clock and had not succeeded in killing anything, although there are plenty of kangaroo on the island, up to the time when we were startled by a peculiar noise like the growling of a dog in a bush, we gave the bush a kick and from it jumped what is termed on the Island a Tiger Cat, an animal about as large as a bull-dog but spotted more like a leopard – he had been eating a small kind of kangaroo termed wallaby but had left the fore-quarters which we kindly assisted him to manage, leaving little else but skin and bone for him to look at when he returned. This is all I tasted afterwards until Thursday when we arrived at the lighthouse pretty well done up.

Edwin Bellgrove’s letter

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY.

Next morning, the 17^th, we started off not very refreshed, as it was piercingly cold, although we kept up a good fire all night; we also felt exceedingly hungry, having had nothing but a small quantity of biscuit since the night of the wreck. After proceeding some distance, we found a native cat, which had half a wallaby in its lair. This we washed well, and eat it with great relish, although it tasted rather strong of pussy. We encamped that night where the crew of the Flying Arrow had.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

18 July, Wednesday:

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Wednesday passed much the same as Tuesday except that I went to fetch some water, which is two miles off, and had a wash, the first I had had since Saturday the fourteenth. I tried to get aboard to see if I could save any of my things, but they would not let me go. At night the men who had gone shooting returned, all but one who was too faint and had sat down to rest, they shot nothing that day, so we had nothing for supper but our allowance, which was a quarter of a pannican of flour. 

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 18th - Crew employed in getting stores from the ship. A hole was cut through the main deck and some tins of preserved meat were got at, enough to serve 1/4 lb to each person, also some oatmeal. Passengers found plenty of whelks and limpets on the rocks which are good to eat. A few more kangaroos shot. The Carpenter and Sailmaker patching up life boat and fitting it with a sail, as Captain Owens has resolved to sail and see if Mr Parry and party have reached yet. Mrs Cubbins and baby doing well. Got a tin of arrowroot from ship, and some tins of preserved milk. Some colds and diarrhoea, but nothing serious.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE

The lifeboat being much damaged, the gig was used for the purpose of saving provisions. The Captain succeeded in making only two trips, the remainder of the day having been given to the sailors who were exceedingly fatigued and wet to recoup themselves. This evening it was proposed by the Captain that, as the success of Mr. Parry’s party was still dubious, he would have the life boat put in a seaworthy state and start for the lighthouse, situated on the North point of the island, to see what means could be adopted to communicate with some place where assistance could be procured. Some provisions and passengers’ luggage was landed this day.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY.

We started early on the 18^th. On our rough walk two or three of the party were showing signs of being wearied, and it was with much difficulty they managed to creep along. About 10am we came across a cart track, which we followed, and found it much easier walking. On our road we passed a grave, with a tombstone at its head, on which was cut:- ‘Sacred to the memory of Captain McEachern, late of the ship Brahmin, who was drowned 21^st May 1854; aged 39’.

About 12 noon, we sighted the lighthouse, a good distance off. This raised the spirits of the party greatly, and we trudged on quite merrily. We came across a river, which retarded us a good deal, as we had to make for the coast again, not finding a place to cross inland, and all were very tired. We crossed the river, went a few miles further, and then encamped.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

19 July, Thursday:

KING ISLAND

Parry and his group arrived at the Cape Wickham Lighthouse. Just 2 hours later at approx midday Parry, Attwood, Bluett and Springett borrowed a 23 foot whaleboat and some provisions and set off across the Bass Strait. The Herald of 26 July refers to a little middy yet of his teens as also being in the boat.

Karina: Have not seen any other references to the little teenage middy supposedly in Parry’s walking party and in the whale boat.

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY, REACHING CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

… Thursday when we arrived at the lighthouse pretty well done up.

There we were treated as only I believe people who are accustomed to such visitors can treat you. I had lost my appetite though and felt jolly queer. The first thing I had was an apple and a piece of dry bread, but little by little I continued until I again got all sound or pretty nearly so by the time the lighthouse boat was got out and five of us ready to man her, but by the advice of Captain Spon the lighthouse keeper, Parry, the second mate would not allow or permit me to get in, stating as a reason that I was too far gone to pull a skull – consequently I have been deprived of crossing the straits in an open whale boat, but I watched all night in the lighthouse tower. They had beautiful weather almost all the way and arrived at Port Philip land on Friday night, where they were well cared for.

Edwin Bellgrove’s letter

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY, REACHING CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

Up next morning at daybreak and two of the party reached the lighthouse at 10am, the others straggling in about an hour afterwards. Here we were treated most hospitably by Mr Spong, the superintendent, and all his party. We found that the only chance of relief was to go across to Melbourne in a small whaleboat, consequently,

PARRY’S PARTY – IN THE WHALEBOAT.

Mr Parry, Messrs Attwood, Bluett and Springett started off, at 2pm, having pulled safely out of the surf about nine or ten miles.

We then hoisted a small spritsail, and got hard on capitally till night, when it began to rain hard, as well as blow, and to make it worse we found we had no lamp, consequently every now and then we lighted a match to see how we were steering by a small pocket compass.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

KING ISLAND, PARRY’S WALKING PARTY, CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

In your columns you say ‘one of the party who should have embarked in the frail boat saw the danger, his heart failed him, and he refused to go.’ Now, Sir, this I deny; the facts are these: Messrs Parry (second mate of the Netherby in charge of the party, Bluett, Atwood and Springett, and myself, were going in the whale boat belonging to the lighthouse, on King’s Island, to Melbourne. I went to the beach and helped to launch the boat, and when all was ready for starting, Mr Parry, Mr Bluett, Mr Atwood and Mr Springett refused to let me go with them, stating as their reason that I was the only married man of the party who started from the camp; and having a wife and two children in the camp, if anything was to happen to the boat and we were drowned, I should leave them unprotected in a foreign land; and they, being all single men, would not; therefore I was not to go. Etc.

George J A Evans letter to The Age 24 July 1866

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

The Captain, Sailmaker and three men left at 8 oclock this morning to sail round to the light house, and if Mr Parry did not reach it, to sail over to Melbourne. In turning over the cargo, came across some cases of cocoa and some beer, both of which are very acceptable. I served out 1/2 a pint of beer to each of the women. A package of children's boots came ashore, and I distributed them amonst the children. A good many articles of clothing have also been washed ashore and distributed amongst the people. It still continues fine, but cold at night.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Thursday I managed to get aboard the vessel by waiting till the boat had started, then I ran into the water and jumped in, when I got aboard I saw such a scene of destruction as I never saw before. Some of the planks of the deck were three and four inches apart but I made haste into the "tween decks" to get the bundle I had made up on Sunday morning, but it was gone.  The scene in the "tween decks" was worse than on the main deck the port lights were broken and the water rushed in at every wave so that the port side being lowest was four feet in water, while boxes had been wrenched open and the best things taken from them and the rest thrown down and were floating in the water, with pieces of the table, bunks, and empty, however as my things were stolen I sat about lifting what ever I saw likely to be useful where we were, I happened to have my old cape and a pair of trousers in my bunk which being a top one on the starboard side was high and dry and as they were folded under the mattress, no one had seen them.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE

The Captain continued to do his utmost to save provisions and luggage, the gig being used for that purpose.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

20 July, Friday:

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE TO CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

Being in great suspense as to the arrival of the expedition to the lighthouse, it was decided that I should leave in the life-boat for the lighthouse. The sailmaker and four sailors volunteered to accompany me. We started at about 10am and arrived at the lighthouse at 6pm., when we found that Mr Parry and his expedition had arrived the previous day about noon, and Parry and three of the party had already left for Melbourne in a life-boat belonging to the lighthouse, kindly lent to them by Mr Spong, the superintendent. A messenger (Mr Hickmott) was accordingly despatched about 10pm, bearing a letter to the camp informing them that succor was soon to be expected.

Captain Owen’s report.

Karina: I note that Capt Owens and Dr Webster’s accounts appear to be a day out with each other as Dr Webster says this happened on 19^th.

Possibly Capt was using “ship time” as his notes have the wreck itself described as ‘Ship time 15 July”.

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 20th - Employed as usual getting things from the wreck got two casks of oatmeal and a gallon of sherry.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

On Friday, the lifeboat was got fit for service, and captain Owens and some of the sailors started to go to the lighthouse, for fear that anything might have happened to them that went by land, we watched the little craft sail out of sight, with hopes and fears, for if the first party did not reach the lighthouse, that boat contained our last hope, as there was no hope of a vessel coming near us and they had not got provisions enough ashore to last us all a week, and although they might kill a few Kangaroos, powder was very scarce and retreat before civilisation so very fast, that already they had to go miles to see one.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

At 9.45 a.m. the Captain left us in the lifeboat manned by the sail maker and four sailors and proceeded on his mission to the north part of the Island where the lighthouse is situated. Mr Jones, Chief Officer, carpenter and crew did their utmost to save as much provision and luggage as possible.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

PARRY’S PARTY – IN THE WHALEBOAT, REACHING MAINLAND VICTORIA.

We spent a most miserable night, all of us being nearly worn out, and it was with great delight we hailed daylight, which brought to our view land, which we made for, but could see no place where we could land, till we saw a small bay, where we thought there was a river. Here we went, and, to our delight, saw a small sheltered spot, where we hauled the boat up.

We had something to eat (we took plenty from the lighthouse), and then turned in for the night.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

MAINLAND, VICTORIA

Parry and group, seeing fires on shore, made landfall and camped overnight. Article in The Australasian 28 Jul 1866 states “a sheltered spot between Point Roadknight and Barwon Heads”. The Kilmore Free Press of 26 July 1866 says “looking about for a safe place where they might effect a landing, they succeeded in doing so safely at Point Roadknight, near Loutit Bay”. Geelong Advertiser 23 July says “Heavy weather set in, and they expected to be lost, but at last made Roadknight’s Point, where they were hospitably received by Mr Allen, who is working down there with a geodetic survey party at Loutit Bay”

Newspaper reports as listed

21 July, Saturday:

MAINLAND, VICTORIA

In the morning Parry’s group came across Mr Alexander Charles Allen’s camp. Allen was the Government surveyor doing a geodetic survey in the area. Parry was loaned a horse, some money and a man to show him the road, along with a letter of introduction to Capt James Volum and Mr Bice/Rice from Mr James C Irwin who was Allen’s second in command that requested them to send out conveyance for two members of the party who were making for Geelong.

Kilmore Free Press: “Attracted by the fires, they soon made the camp of a surveying party under the charge of Mr AC Allen, by whom they were hospitably welcomed. After a rest so much needed, the second mate once more took up the task with which he had charged himself. The surveyors provided him with a horse and sent one of their men with him as a guide to Geelong, where they arrived at half past four on Saturday afternoon. The surveyors had given him a letter of introduction to Capt Volum, and, in the company with that gentleman, he at once proceeded to the telegraph station, where they met Mr McGowan, the head of the telegraph department. Messages were then forwarded to the agents of the ship, to the Chief Secretary, and to Capt Norman of the Victoria. Arrangements were made that Captain Norman should be at Geelong Junction to meet Mr McGowan and the mate by the next train.”

Parry rode approx. 65km to Queenscliffe where he telegraphed word of the shipwreck to Williamstown Harbour Master Capt. Charles Ferguson. The telegram expressed the necessity for immediately sending a steamer to the rescue, as the vessel was full up to the deck beams when the officer left.

Parry then rode to Geelong (further 35km) and caught the last train to Melbourne with Mr Samuel W McGowan, superintendent of the Electric Telegraph Department, and they then drove to the residence of the Chief Secretary (Honorable James McCulloch, Her Majesty’s Chief Secretary for Victoria, and Premier) to raise the alert at 1.15am Sunday morning. McCulloch had been telegrammed from Geelong at 10pm and had already put in place actions with the Victoria and Pharos to be crewed and provisioned.

Geelong Advertiser of 23 July says “Two of the men started from Geelong by the last train for Melbourne and reached the Chief Secretary’s house at 1.15am Sunday morning”. Unsure if this means Parry and Mr McGowan, or Parry and one of the whaleboat passengers, accompanied by Mr McGowan.

Captain Volum and Mr Rice have used every exertion in their power to forward the objects of the party; and thanks are due to Mr Irwin. A vehicle was despatched last night (22^nd) to pick up the two passengers walking.

Kilmore Free Press mentions the other three passengers walked from Point Roadknight to Geelong arriving during Saturday night “but we have been unable to learn where they put up and most likely they have gone to Melbourne”.

Geelong Advertiser 23 Jul.

Kilmore Free Press 26 July.

Karina’s research:

- Capt Volum was a shipping captain, lived in Geelong.

- Mr Bice or Rice – depending on spelling in various papers, may have been Joseph who was the proprietor of the Black Bull Hotel on Malop Street in Geelong and the letter may have been asking him to provide accommodation.

- Mr James (Chamney or Chauncy – alters through records) Irwin is listed in many news articles through 1866 as being a geodetic surveyor on Allens team (B 1839 d 1877. Son of Lieutenant Colonel Frederick Chidley Irwin, first settler in WA and acting Governor & Elizabeth nee Courthorpe an artist, sketcher and draughtswoman).

- Mr Alexander Charles Allen/Allan is mentioned in many articles through 1866 as being the Government surveyor and the spelling of his surname differs throughout the press (even in the same article) and govt records.

PARRY’S PARTY – IN THE WHALEBOAT, ON MAINLAND VICTORIA.

Next morning we came across Mr Allan’s surveying camp, where we were treated most hospitably both by Mr Allan and Mr Irwin, another of the party. They provided Mr Parry with a horse and money, and sent a man to show him the road.

The rest of our adventures is already known; as also, how splendidly and nobly the Victorians treated, not only use, but the rest of the unfortunate passengers of the Netherby.

From anon writer who was in the party, to the Queenslander newspaper 25 Aug 1866.

Karina: if only this account actually told us how the author and rest of the party (other than Parry) got from the survey camp to Melbourne!

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

On Saturday about two oclock we were cheered up by the appearance of a man from the lighthouse who, stated that Mr Parry had arrived on Thursday, with a few of the men that started with them, the rest, they had to send out horses to fetch, and that being a fair wind at the time, they put him with a whale boat at once, for him to make his way to the main land of Australia, and from thence to Melbourne, he also stated that captain Owens had arrived on Friday afternoon, for having a fair wind it only took six hours, but the boat leaked so much that it took two men bail out the water all the way

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 21st - Got three more casks of oatmeal today from the ship and some more cocoa and some tins of preserved eggs, also four cases of ale. There was a great excitement in the camp this afternoon when one of the Lighthouse keepers made his appearance; half the people seemed to have gone mad. He had walked over from the lighthouse, a distance of 35 miles, in 12 hours, and was very much exhausted. He brought me a letter from the Captain stating that he had taken 12 hours to reach the light house, when he found that Mr Parry and party arrived at the light house at 10am on the 19th, and after 2 hours rest had gone over to Melbourne in a life boat belonging to the light house.  They were very much knocked up, and one of them too ill to go on. He also informed me he would return himself the next day to the camp. Mr Hickmot, the light house keeper, informs me they are provisioned for 6 months and can accommodate a good many of the passengers, so I shall keep him until Monday, and if no help arrives, will send over all the single men who are able to walk the distance. Mrs Cubbins and child continue very well. Some of the sailors got drunk this evening and are rather noisy. Some showers of rain this evening.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Mr. Jones, carpenter and crew were employed in saving. At 2 p.m. Mr. Hickmott arrived here from the lighthouse bringing a letter from Captain Owens which informed us that he arrived at the lighthouse at 6 p.m. yesterday. The party under Mr. Parry had reached the lighthouse some hours previous and four of the party had already proceeded in a boat belonging to the lighthouse to Melbourne. The consternation in our camp when they heard that succour was at hand was indescribable. Mr. Hickmott performed the trip in 15 hours. At 9 p.m. a light was seen in the offing and shortly afterwards a blue light, supposed to be Captain Owens returning. The crew followed by some passengers hurrahing, went to the landing rock and at 9.30 p.m. Captain Owens landed and walked up to the Camp, where he was received by the whole community with three hearty cheers and one more.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE & BACK TO WRECK SITE.

At 8am after stopping the leaks in the boat, which kept two men baling, she was so shattered by rough usage, we started and arrived at the ship at 10pm, where we were received by the passengers with three hearty cheers. I found that Mr Hickmott had arrived there about _pm, bearing the good news, and the joy of the camp was not to be described, tears of gratitude being shed in abundance.

Captain Owen’s report

22 July, Sunday:

MELBOURNE

As soon as the news reached the Chief Secretary, Honorable James McCulloch, Her Majesty’s Chief Secretary for Victoria, and Premier, at 10pm Saturday night, by telegraph then 1.15am Sunday morning by the arrival of John Parry, he telegrammed Lieutenant GA Woods, commander of the Naval Training Ship, and gave instructions for the fitting out of the Government steamers Pharos, and HMCSS Victoria, with provisions, to proceed immediately to the scene to the wreck. 60 of the boys, with their commander and officers immediately went on board the Victoria. Captain Fullarton, commander of the Pharos, had been telegrammed at 12.30am Sunday morning.

Geelong Advertiser 23 Jul, The Ballarat Star 25 Jul, The Herald 25 July.

HOBSON’S BAY, WILLIAMSTOWN

3am: The Pharos left with 4 tons of fresh stores and cleared the heads at 8am, arriving near Cape Wickham lighthouse on King Island around 4pm. Sea conditions and fog meant the vessel had to anchor overnight.

11am: John Parry boarded the steam ship HMCSS Victoria (commander Norman) to assist in the navigation from Williamstown to King Island.

MELBOURNE

Preparations begun in the Exhibition Building on William Street to house the bulk of the passengers under the organisation of Mr Lesley A Moody, Colonial immigration officer, and the Hon JG Francis, Commissioner of Customs. So much energy was thrown into the work that at 10pm Monday nearly everything was ready.

Herald 24 July, Argus 25 July.

ON BOARD THE VICTORIA

At twenty minutes to twelve oclock, the engines were started, the foresail and for and main topsails set, and the Victoria proceeded on her voyage, passing the lighthouse off Gellibrand’s Point at noon. The weather was very favorable, there being a steady wind from the north, which helped us considerably, and enabled us to pass Point Lonsdale at a quarter to three pm. After passing through the Heads, the breeze freshened and the vessel’s head was turned in the direction of King’s Island. John Parry, the second mate of the wrecked vessel, was a passenger by the Victoria. I may mention that he was wrecked a short time ago, in the ship Tennasserim, while on her way from London to Calcutta. About four oclock on Sunday afternoon, a nasty drizzling rain came on, which continued throughout the night, so that when we sighted King’s Island light at a quarter to ten pm, the captain thought it wise to stand away under easy steam, and wait for daylight.

The Age 25 July, unnamed journalist who travelled on the Victoria

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

At nine am the beat was sent to run out a rope and kedge to seaward in anticipation of the arrival of the steamer, to enable the boats to clear the breakers.

After this, prayers were appointed to be read, and a general thanks given to the Father of all mercies for our very providential delivery.

We then intended to have a meeting in the evening, but heavy rain prevented us from having a public service, though, no doubt, many returned thanks privately for our miraculous preservation, as the coast was strewn in all direction with sunken rocks to a great distance off; and had the ship struck on one of these rocks, not a soul would have been saved to tell the tale.

Captain Owen’s report

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

The boat the Captain went in was so leaky the whole way up to the lighthouse that it required two men constantly bailing to keep her free. On his arrival at the lighthouse she was hauled up to have some temporary stoppage to the leak effected by soaping the seams, but before she got out of the surf on the return trip the soap was washed off and she was again in the hands of the carpenter. A preparation was made by carrying a kedge and line to the offing in anticipation of a steamer coming. Prayers were appointed to be read this morning and a general thanksgiving rendered to the Father of Mercies for our deliverance, but so many destitute women and children came to our hut for articles of clothing, shoes, etc., that the Doctor was fully occupied in clothing the naked in the forenoon. It was then intended to have a meeting in the evening, but heavy rain prevented this intention, though, no doubt, many returned thanks privately for our miraculous preservation, as this coast is strewn in all directions to a great distance with sunken rocks. Had the ship struck one of these rocks not a soul would have been saved.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE, WALKING GROUP TO CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

On Sunday we were informed that the single men were to start with Mr Hickmott on Monday morning back to the lighthouse, as they had fears whether Mr Parry had reached Melbourne or not, and they had not provisions enough for ua all for two days more. So they picked out one hundred and sixteen of us to go. I went though they did not want me to but all my mess were going and I did not care to stay behind, for I do not think I had spoken to a dozen of them during the voyage besides my mess and the sailors.

Sunday afternoon they gave out an allowance of flour and oatmeal to each of them that were going, at eight the next morning we started with Mr Hickmott for a guide. We walked about one hundred yards till we came to a corner. There we stopped and gave a cheer such a three times three as King Island never heard before, three for the camp three for the captain and three for our guide. Then we started in earnest. 

George Massingham’s Letter

KING ISLAND, CAPE WICKHAM

The steamer Pharos arrived around 4pm, the weather, however, was so thick that she stood ‘off and on’ all night.

The Herald 25 July.

23 July, Monday:

GEELONG

First of the newspapers to get a report out is the Geelong Advertiser. Its first line is “By the arrival of two of the survivors from the wreck of the ship Netherby, we are placed in possession of the following details…”. The article includes the names of the survey party and the names of people in Geelong who provided assistance.

Geelong Advertiser morning news 23 July

Karina: It doesn’t name them so unable to tell if it is Parry and one passenger, or the other two passengers that followed them later.

KING ISLAND, Cape Wickham lighthouse and wreck site.

8am, 3 of the passengers, men who had walked from the wreck site to the lighthouse, struggled through the surf to board, then the Pharos continued to the wreck site, anchoring around 2.30pm. 60 men, passengers and crew boarded.

The Herald 25 July

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

A party of 117 single men were despatched today to the lighthouse with Mr Hickmott, as a scarcity of provisions was anticipated if succor should not be soon forthcoming.

At 9am to the joy of all in camp, a steamer was seen to be approaching from the southward. Thelife-boat was sent to meet her, and she proved to be the HMCSS Victoria, commander Norman, who brought us beef, mutton, biscuits and soft bread for our support, and her kind commander offered to supply us with everything we required. About 11am the women and children were sent off first, passing over the long boat as a bridge between the steamer’s boats and the rocks.

It was amusing to see how careful the sailors were in carrying the ladies through the surf and especially one woman with a young baby in her arms.

At 3pm another steamer appeared in sight, coming from the northward. She proved to be the Pharos, and took off a few boats full.

The steamers got under way. Remaining in camp were 11 ships crew, master, officers and men, and 12 passengers (7 males and 5 females).

Captain Owen’s report

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE, WALKING GROUP TO CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

Mr Hickmott woke us all before it was light, he wanted us to start again by six oclock, it was a very cold morning, the long grass was white frost, and as we walked along knocking our legs against it, it was not warm by any means.  We had gone far when someone asked Mr Hickmott how far we had to go, he said about fifteen, which with the twenty we done the day before made thirty five instead of thirty but we found it more like forty five. We walked on till eleven, then we had to wait two hours for the tide to go down, which gave us a good rest, which we wanted for some of them were nearly done up. About half past one we started again and the walking being a little better we done six miles more by three oclock, when some were quite done for. 

Our number looked very small, so they counted and found only forty instead on one hundred and sixteen, a few of them were in front but the rest were behind. We had not rested long when we saw a man on horseback come galloping round a point. He was welcomed with a shout, it was Mr Spong the superintendent of the light house. He said that two of the men had walked all night, and got to the lighthouse in the morning, and he said he had started with some biscuits for us as soon as he could find a horse, for they let them run wild. 

He said we had only four more miles to go, so on we went but after we got off the sand the hills were fearful, they were so deceiving, for you would get on top of a hill and see the light apparently not more than a quarter of a mile off and began to thank your stars that you only to over that other high hill, and we should be there, but we kept on and on, but that other high hill was still in front of us, we found that four miles and a half was more like seven and a half but I got there about six and was treated very kindly being the youngest of them all. There was a good many of them of them in by twelve at night they kept stopping in one and two at a time all the next day.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

July 23rd - This morning at 8 pclock, no assistance having arrived, 117 young men left the camp for the lighthouse, accompanied by Mr Hickmott, taking 3 days rations with them.  At 3pm all hearts were cheered by the appearance of H.M.C.S "Victoria" steaming into the bay, followed, in a few hours, by the "Pharos". Provisions were sent on shore, and arrangements made for the removal of the passengers. They were taken on board by means of boats and ropes made fast from the ship to the shore, but almost all had to wade through the surf, and were wet and cold when they got on board. Soup was at once served out to them, and their wet garments dried.

Some of the Saloon passengers refused to come off as they thought by stopping they could recover some of their baggage etc. 90 passengers were taken off by the "Pharos" and 250 by the "Victoria", and as the latter took the married people and children, I accompanied them to Melbourne. Before sunset we were out of sight of the Island and steaming for Port Phillip Bay. Everyone was well fed and made as comfortable as possible by Commander Norman and his Officers, and though a few were seasick, all passed a better night than they had done for some time.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Mr. Hickmott left this morning with 117 single passengers for the lighthouse as they were well provisioned there, and we on very short allowance here, being ½ lb flour or oatmeal for each adult. An hour after the departure of Mr. Hickmott a steamer was seen to the southward. As soon as she was near enough Captain Owens went off in our lifeboat and acquainted the Commander of H.M.S. Steamer Victoria with the localities. At 11 a.m. she anchored about ¾ of a mile from the wreck. Two boats were lowered immediately and a commencement made to embark the passengers, women and children first. When the women were embarked the men followed. During the day another Steamer hove in sight and anchored shortly after, outside the Victoria. Some of the saloon passengers had sent a part of their things to the rocks, but there being no person to be found to assist in taking off the rest they could not proceed. The embarkation continued until 4 p.m. and just before dark the two steamers got under way, leaving behind Captain Owens, six saloon passengers, six second class passengers, two Officers, the sail maker, the carpenter and six of the crew, in all, 23 persons, five of whom were ladies.

Our lifeboat acted as a kind of bridge during the embarkation of passengers between the rocks and Victoria boats, and required to be constantly bailed out. The men in her were completely exhausted in keeping her from sinking.

After the last boat left for the Victoria she was hauled up, assisted by every male on the Island, and put bottom up on the rocks very much shattered. The Victorian Government very humanely sent provisions to the Island and the Commander of the Victoria informed the Captain that he had more to place at our disposal if required.

What a change! Last night we had about 445 souls in our camp comprising a circumference of perhaps a mile distributed in about 40 or 50 huts, some constructed of brushwood or scrub and covered with the same material, some covered with canvas washed ashore from the ship, others again with sheets etc., all hastily and hurriedly run up as a shelter from rain and wind. Forty or fifty fires blazed in all direction during the whole night to keep the cold out; in one direction children were heard crying, in another bigger ones discussing passing events in their own quaint way at the tops of their voices; in another men disagreeing, and occasionally the soft voiced accents of dear, devoted women endeavouring to pacify the angry parties; and in another concertinas playing lively airs. For the purpose of keeping a strict watch over the provisions a regular watch was kept by the saloon passengers and a bell struck every half hour, echoed by two others in opposite directions: and to-night the community is reduced to 23 individuals, peace and quietness reigning around not a voice to be heard, no music, no songs, and the half-hour bell ceased to tell us the half hours which were passing away. The saloon passengers bore up cheerfully with their altered position, and the saloon ladies, young, delicate, and nursed in the lap of luxury, were seen chopping and cutting fire-wood, and carrying water for culinary purposes with happy bright faces, and laughing under all their misfortunes, heavy losses and discomfits.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND

The Victoria had also arrived the night before and sailed up and down through the night in the bad weather. She got to the wreck site around 10am and anchored about 300 yards off the wreck.

Dr Webster and purser Lockhart travelled with the passengers.

Captain Owen, 11 crew and ten passengers (Mr Townsend and family, Miss Stutchberry, Mr Vincent, Mr Cowell, and Mr AB Webster) remained on King Island.

ON BOARD THE VICTORIA, AND KING ISLAND AT THE WRECK SITE.

When the morning came, we proceeded along the coast, which had a very unprepossessing appearance; the land is low and the shores bound by rocks, which appear to be granite. At half past ten, on rounding a point of head-land, we saw smoke in the distance, and shortly afterwards the hull of the wrecked vessel. At a quarter past eleven we came abreast of it and dropped anchor about a cable’s length from the shore, when the captain of the Netherby came on board in a small boat, which its crew had much difficulty in keeping afloat, one of them being constantly employed in bailing her out. The Victoria’s pinnace and cutter were immediately launched and manned, and sent ashore with provisions for those who were to remain behind and to fetch the rest on board.

The scene of the wreck is Fitzmaurice Bay, which is almost encircled by reefs of granite rock rising sharp and serrated peaks above the water. The Netherby lies broadside on to the rocks, about 300 yards from the shore, her head to the northward, with deck to seaward. The masts are cut away, and she is evidently broken backed, and cannot last long in her present position. She is slightly sheltered from NW winds, but so exposed from W to S that a gale from that quarter would break her to pieces in a few minutes. She is full of water, and from the fact of her swaying about with every wave that rolls in, I should imagine that her middle is on the rocks and that one of them runs through her bottom.

With the first boat that left the Victoria I proceeded on shore. The boats were guided by the bawser leading from the wreck to the inner barrier of the reefs, where they had to stay. Everywhere around was strewed a quantity of broken utensils and other things, while on the reefs lay the two staved boats, which are now only fit for firewood. In one spot a lot of flat rocks lead from the shore to the reef, forming stepping stones for the poor people to walk upon, but at the end of this they had to cross a channel about twenty yards wide, where the water is three feet deep, and through which the surf rolled continuously, making it very difficult, except in the intervals between each roller, to walk.

It was melancholy to see the poor women, some of them old and decrepit, dragging themselves through the water, while perhaps alongside of them was the husband and father, with one child on his back and another in his arms. Some of the men took females on their backs, but this was found to be too dangerous in consequence of the surf. After crossing this channel. They came on to a small heap of rocks, by which they were separated from the reef, alongside which the boats were stationed, in a narrow channel about four feet wide, through which the water rolled with terrible force.

When safely fixed on the reef, the poor sufferers (women and children first) were, with some difficulty, placed in the boat. On this reef, waiting for their turn to be placed in the boat, were men, women and children, all huddled together; some of the latter, who had been, perhaps, brought over by strange men before their mothers, crying piteously for their parents; mothers calling for their children, all wet through; while, to make everything more dreary, the waves dashing against the rocks, would cast the spray all over, drenching them to the skin; all this, I say, formed a scene truly heartrending. One poor woman, in crossing the channel, had a narrow escape from drowning; a roller coming suddenly against her, she lost her footing, but, before being washed away a man fortunately caught hold of her and carried her across. Several were in a very weak state, and had to be assisted in the same manner. It was a fortunate thing that there was very little wind, for, as it was, the labor to keep the boats off the rocks was heavy; but, had their been any strong breeze, no boat could have lived, and the poor sufferers could not have received any aid.

When safe on board, one female uttered the words “thank God”, and immediately fainted; but, on restoratives being applied, she soon recovered. Several others were in a very exhausted state, and for these Captain Norma had ready wine and spirits. Plenty of good hot soup, and bread and beef had already been prepared, and was distributed among all as they were severally put on board; this was received with loud expressions of that’s and gratitude. But still they all looked in a pitiable condition, and their wet clothes were taken off, and lines having been put up in the engine-room, they were hung there to dry. The poor woman who had been confined on the island (Mrs Cubbin) and who was very weak, was, by the kind orders of Captain Norman, placed in his cabin, and everything that the ship afforded was given for the comfort of those who so much needed it.

When 230 had been put into the Victoria, the Pharos arrived and stopped a short distance from us. There were then only about 60 remaining to be taken away, as the Captain and crew of the Netherby intended to start across the island with provisions for the passengers, numbering 117 single men, who that morning had gone to the lighthouse.

The 60 passengers at the wreck were therefore placed on board the Pharos. On inquiring whether all was ready, it was found that a few of the first class passengers were still on shore, upon which a message was sent requesting them to come on board as quickly as possible, to which as answer was returned by a Mr Townsend, to the effect that he had not packed his luggage. Another message was sent by Capt Norman informing him that the vessel would sail immediately; the answer was “he did not want to go with that rabble,” and I did here that he had deputed one of the passengers to represent his case to the Government and get another vessel sent for him. Through his obstinacy, a few others also remained behind, but they were willing to come if he would.

At half past four pm, everything being ready, we started our return, the Pharos following. Soon a great black cloud came hovering o’er us and the rain came pattering down; an unfortunate thing for those crowding our deck who would have no shelter during the dark and dreary night; but our anticipations were agreeably disappointed, for in a few minutes the glorious rays of the setting sun shone forth, a gentle breeze set in against us, the black clouds were carried over our stern, and a fine evening ensued.

Shortly after sundown, tea was provided, consisting of meat, bread, tea and potatoes, ad libitum, the latter being enjoyed after their protracted abstinence from it. Supper being over, all patiently awaited the drying of their clothes, and during this period they certainly exhibited a motely group. Men and women without shoes or stockings; some of the latter without much more covering than a shawl. When those who possessed any extra clothing had got their garments dry, an hour of so was allowed for a promenade. It was a beautify moonlight night, and it was easy to discern the beneficial effects of kindness and good food, by a certain degree of gaiety which soon became visible. As soon as the time for promenading had expired, the women and children were placed on the lower fore deck, where the sailors’ hammocks and several other things were given up for their comfort. The men and some of the females who preferred it, slept on deck, tarpaulins and spare sails being made available in substitution for blankets. Presently all was quiet; the days exertions and their past troubles operated on the voyagers, and they all slept in confidence they were in safety.

The Age 25 July, unnamed journalist who travelled on the Victoria

24 July, Tuesday:

ON BOARD STEAMER VICTORIA, RETURNING TO MELBOURNE

We passed through the Heads again at five oclock on Tuesday morning, and steamed up the Bay, but when abreast of the lightship at eight oclock, the captain thought it necessary to anchor for a while, until a heavy fog which prevailed should have cleared away. Accordingly, the anchor was dropped, and we lay still for about two hours. During this time the decks presented a scene like a beehive; all were on deck occupied about something. Here you would see a mother washing her children, there a young girl employed in fixing feathers on her hat; in another a man would suddenly appear evidently reveling in the thought that he was a gentleman by having changed his corduroy suit for a black coat and beaver hat; while around were the children, well-fed and caring for nothing, running about as happy as possible, and merry as crickets. About eleven oclock the fog cleared off enough to allow of us moving, and we proceeded alongside the breakwater at Williamstown, where we were all landed.

The Age 25 July, unnamed journalist who travelled on the Victoria

HOBSON’S BAY, WILLIAMSTOWN

The rescue vessel Victoria H.M.C, under the command of Commander WH Norman, arrived in Hobson’s Bay at 11am with 260 passengers (mostly the women and children) from King Island. Government ship Pharos, captained by Capt R Fullarton, arrived at 1pm with 50 passengers (mostly men) and crew from King Island. (Some articles say 230 on Victoria and 60 on Pharos). The Hon Mr Francis and Mr Guthrie were on the pier to meet the ‘poor creatures’ and accompanied them on the train from Williamstown to Spencer Street Station, arranged by the railway traffic superintendent of the Government Railways, Mr Jeremy.

Mr Francis, communicated several times with Bright Brothers and the latter have been in communication with the Brisbane agents by wire. Mr Francis has also been telegraphing the Queensland government.

MELBOURNE

The train arrived at 12.20pm. Taxi drivers waiting at Spencer Street offered their services for free and transported passengers to the Exhibition Building, Immigration Depot and the Sailors Home. Mrs Cubbin and baby were accommodated at the Lying-In-Hospital.

Mr Moody, immigration officer, classified each arrived person and arranged for their future disposal.

Both vessels did a fast turnaround, returning to King Island to retrieve the remaining passengers and crew. Dr Webster returned to King Island on the Victoria, leaving at 7.45pm.

The Age (26 July) printed a copy of the telegram sent to the Chief Secretary James McCulloch from the Chief Secretary of Queensland on 24 July stating: “I thank you for your courtesy in giving information of wreck of the Netherby, and your action for relief of the passengers. Much satisfaction exists that no lives are lost. Many relatives in the colonies. Messrs Bright Brothers are agents of the ship owners, and will take the necessary steps to forward passengers to Brisbane. Col Secretary”.

The Herald 25 Jul, Mount Alexander Mail 25 Jul.

Articles and shipping notices differ re numbers on board.

The Argus shipping notice states ‘arrived 24^th Victoria with 260 passenger, Pharos with 50 passengers and crew’.

Herald shipping notice states ‘Victoria 240, Pharos 47 passengers’.

Karina: I haven’t ascertained who the QLD Chief Secretary was yet as the QLD archives state the position didn’t exist until 1 April 1886. Based on the wiki page for the Government of Queensland it may have been Robert Herbert who was in power for just a couple of weeks over this time period.

ON BOARD VICTORIA & ARRIVING IN MELBOURNE.

The next morning the "Victoria" was taken alongside the Williamstown breakwater and boarded by the Health Officer and other gentlemen anxious to know if any had succumbed to the hardness of their situation. A special train had been despatched from Melbourne and the passengers were enabled to walk from the "Victoria" on to the pier and into the carriages, which were alongside the sloop. The Honble. Mr Francis and Mr Guthrie received us on the pier and went to town with us.  

On reaching Melbourne, Messrs Bernard and Mahon generously placed the cabs free of charge at the disposal of the passengers, and conveyed them to the Exhibition Building, which had been fitted up for the occasion.  The Saloon and 2nd Cabin passengers were lodged at Tankards Temperance Hotel. The single females sent to the Immigration Depot and the sailors to the Sailors Home. And Dr McGawren (?) Medical Officer of the gaol, undertook the supervision of the passengers at the Exhibition Building. (I was located at Scotts Hotel). After seeing them all safe to their different quarters, I went back with the Honble. Mr Francis to the Colonial Secretary and begged him to allow the steamers to return for the remaining passengers at the wreck and who numbered 40, and 117 left at the light house. My request was granted and the steamers were ordered to leave Williamstown at 8 oclock the same evening, and as I thought some of the men might be laid up from their long walk or other causes, I volunteered to accompany them back again. So after getting a bath and change of clothes, I started off to bring up the remainder.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Heavy surf breaking over the rocks and landing places, and heavy breakers over the reefs in the offing. Shortly after daylight the ship was observed bilging and twisting with the force of the heavy breakers, giving evident signs that she could not hold out much longer.

She gradually began to heel over to seaward, and at 1 p.m. a heavy breaker passed over her, with a sudden surge she was observed to part in two. Shortly after the fore part disappeared, and by 5 p.m. nothing appeared of the after part but a few straggling timbers. Everything in her hold then broke loose, and boxes, cases and packages of merchandise, together with planks, timbers and beams, were seen scattered far and wide on the rocks. What a great good fortune to us that the ship did not break up whilst the mass of passengers and sailors were amongst us.

The quantity of drinkables scattered along the rocks for a distance of about six miles would have acted as a magnet to some of the single men and we should have seen drunken men perambulating the camp stirring up strife and fomenting quarrels which might have ended in bloodshed if not murder.

Last Sunday showed us on a small scale what mischief the free use of spirits can cause, for a few of the single men passengers went on board the wreck, ostensibly to look out for their things, but they found cases of ardent spirits and malt liquors which they broke open and made use of to such an extent as to prepare them for committing deeds which they possibly would be ashamed of if sober. They landed from the ship in a shameful state, and joined by some of the sailors who were also intoxicated, began to fight and quarrel in the camp. Blows were exchanged, blood was shed and women ran between them imploring them to be quiet until after a great deal of trouble, the Captain and Doctor managed to send each to his own hut.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

25 July, Wednesday:

MELBOURNE

Mayor William Bayles held a meeting at the Criterion Hotel to establish the Netherby Relief Fund and the Ladies Committee. The Geelong Advertiser states that a large number of influential men assembled, but not so many as would have congregated had the meeting been convened at a more convenient hour for businessmen!

KING ISLAND

7.30am: The Victoria arrived at Cape Wickham. Signals to the lighthouse ascertained there were 120 men there but they were too ill from their previous exertions to walk up to Franklin Roads 9 miles away and could not embark. The Victoria continued past New Years Island and Doctor Webster went ashore at 11.30am and walked to the lighthouse to check on the men. The Pharos joined the Victoria soon after. They were unable to continue to the wreck due to squally seas.

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

All went on quietly in our camp. Sailors employed under their officers in picking up what was on the rocks and placing them above the high-water mark. Unpleasant rainy weather; damp beds and blankets; discomfort all round.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE, WALKING GROUP AT CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.
The steamer came for us on Wednesday but Mr Spong signalled back that we were not strong enough to go, so they went away but came again on Thursday but got the same answer, they answered back that they could not wait any longer and fixed a place fourteen miles away where we were to be by sunrise the next morning and they would be ready to take us off. 

George Massingham’s letter

ON BOARD THE VICTORIA

At 8 oclock this morning were off the light house and having signaled, learnt that some of the men had only come in yesterday and were very much knocked up from their long walk. As it was blowing a stiff breeze and a very heavy surf running in, it was impossible to take them off today. Captain Norman steamed into the Franklin Roads between the New Year Islands, and remained there until the next day. As I thought some of the men might be seriously ill, I went ashore in one of the steamer's boats with another gentleman and walked to the light house, a distance of 15 miles, arranging with Captain Norman to come with as many as could walk the distance the following. On reaching the light house just before sunset I was very kindly received by Mr Spong the superintendent, and found some of the men laid up with diarrhoea and others with their feet severely blistered. Every kindness and attention had been paid them by Mr Spong and his assistants, and they were getting better.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

Wind west to north. Very heavy surf breaking heavily on the rocks and heavy breakers over the reefs in the offing. At daybreak the ship was observed bilging and twisting with the force of the heavy breakers, and giving evident signs that she could not hold out much longer, as with every surge she appeared to heel more and more until nearly on her beam ends.

About 1pm, with the force of a heavy breaker, she was burst apart amidships, the forepart falling over to seaward, and soon disappearing.

By 5pm nothing of her after part appeared but a few bare timbers. The contents of the hold, together with the planks, booms, timbers etc, were soon floating towards the shore. The crew were in attendance to save as much property as possible, but the cases of merchandise and passengers luggage were dashed to pieces against the rocks before they came within reach to save them.

Captain Owen’s report

26 July, Thursday:

KING ISLAND

Noon: The Victoria headed to the wreck site and anchored 4 cables from the wreck. The remainder of the passengers were boarded along with 21 crew. Mr Parry and Mr MacFadzean staying behind. The Victoria departed around 5pm to anchor near New Years Island. The Pharos followed.

KING ISLAND, CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

Early this morning the "Pharos" came to the light house and signaled to us not to leave today, but to be at Franklin Roads by daybreak tomorrow, so I made arrangements for the men to start at 2am tomorrow, and served out double rations this evening.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

At 11 a.m. H.M.S. Victoria appeared in sight and had some difficulty in finding where we were located as no wreck was visible and we were stupid enough not to light fires. As soon as she was near enough Captain Owens went off in our lifeboat and shortly after she anchored sent her boats in to rescue us from our direful position.

There was a high surf and by 6 p.m. the last boat with the passengers and, luggage, all more or less drenched through, reached the Victoria and she got under way. We cannot speak too highly in praise of the kindness shown by Captain Norman to one and all of us - especially the ladies, placing his own cabin and everything that could be of use to them at their disposal.

To some who were thoroughly drenched, he lent his own clothing. For, all he had kind words and sympathy, and his example was followed by all his Officers, and by every man on board H.M.S. Victoria.

From the Netherby Gazette, authored by Mr H D Vincent & Capt Townsend, passengers.

MELBOURNE

Bright Brothers and Co places a notice in The Argus: calling for tenders for the conveyance from Melbourne to Brisbane of about 297 adults being a portion of the passengers ex ship Netherby, a per adult for saloon, second cabin, and steerage passengers (surgeon and matron free). Tenders to state whether by steam or sailing vessel, with all particulars. The cost of provisioning, in accordance with the Passengers Act, is also to be included in the tender. Passengers to be landed at Brisbane, with all luggage, free of cost, at whatever wharf or place as required by the Government of Queensland. Tenders to be sent in by 10am on Thursday the 26^th inst. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Tenders will also be received for any portion of the above number of passengers.

Karina: I don’t think I have spotted the name of the matron anywhere yet.

27 July, Friday:

KING ISLAND, NEAR CAPE WICKHAM.

Daylight: The Victoria spotted signal fires at the landing place. The 116 men boarded the Victoria and Pharos. One man had been left behind at the lighthouse due to being unable to walk. The Victoria headed to Cape Wickham at noon to collect him and to replace the whale boat and some provisions to lighthouse superintendent Mr Spong.

In total the Victoria carried 76 people and the Pharos 60. The Steamers left King Island at 2pm

The Age 28 Jul

KING ISLAND, WRECK SITE.

On this day the Victoria and Pharos returned, and took away the remainder of the passengers, calling first and Franklin Harbor, and arriving at the light-house before noon. They then sailed for Hobson’s Bay, where the Victoria arrived about midnight, and the Pharos a couple of hours later.

Captain Owen’s report

KING ISLAND, NEAR CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE & BOARDING THE VICTORIA.

So we had to turn out by two oclock in the morning and go back fourteen miles, which we did, and found two steamers, the Victoria and Pharos, I went in the Victoria which reached Williamstown on Friday night, about nine the next morning we landed, and found a train all ready to take us to Melbourne, where we found all the others had been there since Tuesday.

George Massingham’s letter

KING ISLAND, NEAR CAPE WICKHAM LIGHTHOUSE.

At 2am all hands were roused. Had breakfast and left at 3.30 for the Franklin Roads, except one man who was unable to walk, his feet being all over blistered. By 8 oclock the last of the men had got to the Roads and put on board the steamer. I went on board the "Victoria" by the last boat when Captain Norman informed me he had been to the wreck yesterday afternoon and taken off Captain Owens and the remainder of the passengers and crew with the exception of Mr Parry and one of the crew who wished with remain by the wreck in case they did not get paid by the owners who have stopped payment a short time ago.

Captain Norman had some difficulty in finding out the place as the wreck had gone to pieces the day before. The ship broke in half and no vestige of her remains above water, but articles of every description are strewed along the surface of the water and around the numerous rocks which form so prominent and disagreeable a feature on this part of the Island.  Its astonishing how the "Netherby" continued to get into such a position with rocks all around her. From observations made by Mr Spong, the light house keeper, it appears there has been lately a strong set to the southward, as several vessels have lately been seen down amongst the Islands. The "Victoria" made a fine passage of ten hours to Melbourne and anchored off the breakwater at 11pm.

The "Pharos" arrived a short time after. As we came past the light house on King Island, we called and took off the man who had been left behind, and Captain Norman returned the stores which had been used by our people during their stay on the Station.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

MELBOURNE

Paper, pens, ink and stamps were provided to those in the Exhibition building to write letters home.

An amateur concert was given in the newly built Australian Hall in Bourke Street courtesy of the proprietor Mr Hoyt, by members of the choir of St John’s Church for approximately 400 persons who paid a fixed rate of 6d to raise funds. 

MELBOURNE

Notice to Passengers per Netherby:

A letter, a copy of which is attached, has been received from Mssrs Bright Brothers and Co, and is exhibited for your information but without any accompanying advice from the immigration agent. The duty of the Government of Victoria is clear, and has been exercised in succor of the shipwrecked and distressed; and it is further its desire to aid in every necessary way in forwarding to Queensland such of the passengers as may not be able otherwise to reach their destination. But it is not the desire of either this Government or community to offer any inducement to immigrants whose destination was another colony, to remain here. By order of the Commissioner of Customs, Lesley A Moody, Immigration Agent.

To: L A Moody esq, Immigration Agent.

Sir – we have the honor to inform you that we received instructions, by telegram, from the Queensland Government, to forward to Brisbane any passengers from the ship Netherby who come out under the land order system. We have further to advise you that those who prefer remaining in Victoria are to be allowed to do so. We intend taking immediate steps to carry those instructions out; and have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servants. Bright Brothers and Co.

The Age 27 July

HOBSON’S BAY, WILLIAMSTOWN

HMCS Victoria arrived in Hobson’s Bay around midnight with a large number of passengers. The remaining 21 crew (bar Parry and McFadzean who remained on King Island to take charge of any cargo that washed ashore) and passengers arrived on the Pharos an hour or so later.

28 July, Saturday:

MELBOURNE

6am: Passengers on the Victoria and Pharos were woken and around 8am the steamers ran up the Yarra to Melbourne Wharf where the passengers were landed and sent to the Exhibition building.

A concert was held at the Haymarket Theatre to raise funds for the relief fund. Owner George Coppin provided the use of his theatre and expertise. Entertainers included Mrs Ellis, Mrs Fox, Miss Liddle and Mrs Turner; Messrs Angus, Amery, Donaldson, Blanchard, Madden and Williams; members of the Williamstown Artillery Brass Band, Mr Sweetman and family, and conductor Mr David Lee. 35 pounds was raised.

Shipping notice in the Argus 30 Jul refers to Pharos arriving 28^th with passengers. No number mentioned.

MELBOURNE, ON BOARD THE VICTORIA, AND ARRIVING BACK IN MELBOURNE.

After a substantial breakfast on board, the steamers went alongside the pier; the passengers were landed and a special train, which was in their readiness, conveyed them to Melbourne. There cars were waiting to take them to their quarters at the Exhibition Building.  The whole of the passengers are now safe in Melbourne and are very comfortable in their new quarters. One or two are laid up with dysentry,but the rest are keeping remarkably after so much exposure. The Government, throughout, have acted with the greatest promptitude, the immediate wants of the passengers are supplied to them through the Immigration Department, and the Committees of Ladies and Gentlemen appointed to administer the plenteous public charities that are fast pouring in, are supplying them with the necessary clothing etc. 600 pounds have been subscribed by the people of Melbourne and has been expended in clothing, bedding, etc. I telegraphed today to the Queensland Government to know what is to be done with the passengers.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

Mother’s reminiscences. H.M.S. Victoria and Pharis transported the ship’s wrecked company to Williamstown where conveyances were ready to take them to Melbourne Exhibition Buildings for refuge. There the Victorian Government provided food, and at a benefit concert £1000 was subscribed. This provided a change of clothes and a pair of blankets for each family. At this juncture the vessel "City of Melbourne" was fitted up to take the passengers on to Brisbane, Queensland.

Percival, son of Frederick John & Alice Skerman, recounts his mothers memoirs

29 July, Sunday:

MELBOURNE

A Divine Service was conducted in the Exhibition Building in the morning and again at noon.  An excellent sermon was preached to them in the morning by the Rev Mr Johnston of the Seamen’s Chapel. In the afternoon an equally eloquent discourse was delivered by the Rev Mr Cope, Wesleyan Minister.

Dinner was a good old English fare of roast beef and plum pudding and bottled beer.

The children have been under the care of Messrs McCutcheon and T McPherson.

Newspaper accounts

MELBOURNE

Tis being Sunday, service was performed in the Exhibition Building by different clergymen. I visited the passengers and found them having a good diner of Roast beef and Plum Pudding, with half a bottle of beer each. Passengers all very well.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

30 July, Monday:

MELBOURNE

Received an answer from the Queensland Government by telegram, stating that the passengers holding Land Orders were to be forwarded by Messrs Bright Brothers, but anyone that wished could remain behind. Messrs Bright Brothers gave notice that passengers wishing to go on to Brisbane were to hold themselves in readiness to start tomorrow morning.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

31 July, Tuesday:

MELBOURNE

Those that were embarking on the ASN Company’s SS City of Melbourne to Brisbane left the Exhibition Building after giving three cheers to the people of Melbourne for the hospitality given. The ship left Railway Pier, Sandridge at 2pm. A great number of persons were assembled on the pier to witness their departure.

In the Gippsland Chronicle 1 Aug 1866

Karina: Sandridge changed name to Port Melbourne in April 1884

MELBOURNE – DEPARTING ON BOARD SS CITY OF MELBOURNE.

We started again on Tuesday morning, in the City of Melbourne, a fine steamer, we stopped at Sidney where I saw Tom. 

George Massingham’s Letter

MELBOURNE – DEPARTING ON BOARD SS CITY OF MELBOURNE.

After breakfast this morning, tickets were given to those which go on to Brisbane. A glass of wine was given to each of the women on leaving; a packet of sugar plums to the children, and a tin of arrowroot to the infants. They were then sent on board with their baggage. The "City of Melbourne" left about 2pm taking 243 passengers with her. 170 remained at Melbourne. I came up with them and we had a pleasant trip calling for coals at Sydney on our way, but none of the passengers went ashore.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER

The City of Melbourne ss, left Melbourne on Tuesday 31 July ay 3pm and cleared Port Phillip Heads at 5.40pm.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

STAYED IN MELBOURNE

Mr. and Mrs. William Skerman and Willie Skerman stayed behind (in Melbourne). The former took up work as a boot maker and the latter as a foundry hand. When Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh arrived, Uncle Will went on board and joined his band for he was a leading cornet player, thus gaining a trip round the world. He, however, did not get on well with the Bandmaster and quitted the ship, and went "bush" when he arrived back in Australia.

LEFT FOR BRISBANE

The others of the party went on to Queensland arriving on the 6th, and were accommodated in the depot near the Victoria Bridge for one week. The Queensland Government gave John Skerman, F. J. Skerman, and Uncle Hope Martin work on the road to Toowong Cemetery at fifteen shillings per week without rations, and Uncle Alf Darlington was sent to construction work on the Brisbane-Toowoomba railway near Gatton at sixpence per day and keep. 

Percival, son of Frederick John & Alice Skerman, recounts his mothers memoirs

1 Aug, Wednesday:

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER

Rounded Wilson’s Promontory at 3.15pm on Wednesday, and passed Gabo Island at 10pm the same day.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

2 Aug, Thursday:

MELBOURNE

There remained 150 people (29 married couples, 44 single men, 48 children) in the Exhibition building, all choosing to remain in Victoria. Mr Moody made a request to the relief fund committee for a meeting to be held to discuss their individual cases, provide further relief, and move them on from the building to more convenient locations.

Mr Moody also placed a notice in The Age: Netherby Passengers. – Persons following the undermentioned trades and occupations, were amongst those shipwrecked, are now in the Exhibition Building, desirous of employment. Employers will please communicate with the undersigned as soon as possible. Lesley A Moody, Immigration Agent, Immigration Office Melbourne 1 August 1866. The notice goes on to list the trades and numbers of passengers with those skills (57).

Newspaper notices by Mr Moody, The Age 2 Aug.

MELBOURNE

Shipping notices: Cleared out: Alexandra ss, 425 tons, JW Brown, for Sydney. WP White and Co Agents.

Shipping notices The Argus 3 Aug 1866

Karina: Still trying to ascertain if there were Netherby pax on board

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER

She passed Cape St George at 1pm on Thursday, and arrived in Sydney at 10.30pm.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

SYDNEY

City of Melbourne arrives in Sydney carrying Netherby passengers on the way to Brisbane.

Shipping notices The Brisbane Courier 4 Aug 1866

3 Aug, Friday:

SYDNEY

City of Melbourne departed Sydney for Moreton Bay, Brisbane, with immigrants per Netherby.

Shipping notices Empire Sydney 4 Aug 1866

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER

She coaled there, and sailed again for Brisbane at 10.30am on Friday; cleared the Heads at 11am, and passed Port Stephens at 6.40pm.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

4 Aug, Saturday:

ON BOARD STEAMER CITY OF MELBOURNE

Crowdy Head was passed at 1.30am on Saturday, Smokey Cape at 8.40am, and North Solitary at 3.45pm

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

SYDNEY

Shipping notice: arrival in Sydney from Melbourne, Alexander ss

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

Karina: Checking to see if this did in fact have Netherby pax on board

5 Aug, Sunday:

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER

She was abreast of Cape Moreton at 1.10pm on Sunday and arrived in Brisbane Heads at 5pm. She experienced moderate head winds, with fine weather, from Melbourne to Sydney. From Sydney for the first 24 hours she had light head winds and fine weather; and after that strong variable winds with squally weather and continual rain.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866.

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER, MORETON BAY, QLD

Going from Sidney to Brisbane they tried to run us ashore again but did not succeed thus we had a narrow escape, we arrived in Moreton Bay on Sunday afternoon.

George Massingham’s letter

6 Aug, Monday:

MELBOURNE

Captain Owen’s was summoned by Birnie the carpenter and other members of the crew for their wages. The claim was heard by Mr Hackett in the District Court. The Court found that Captain Owens had offered to use the proceeds of the sale of the wreck towards paying the crew, and he consented to give them bills on the ships owners for the balance. The Court ordered each side to receive 3 pounds 3 shillings from the proceeds of the sale and the sum realised is to be divided amongst the crew.

The Argus 7 Aug 1866

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER, MORETON BAY, QLD

On Monday morning early a small steamboat came to take us up the river, we arrived at Brisbane about noon where I soon found a good brother. Now them little troubles are all over for a little time at least.

George Massingham’s letter

ON BOARD CITY OF MELBOURNE STEAMER, MORETON BAY, QLD

We reached Morton Bay on the 4th instant at about 10pm, and anchored for the night. Early the next morning the passengers were put on board the "Ipswich" steamer, with their baggage, to Brisbane to the Immigration Depot, where I delivered them to the Immigration Agent.

Marshall Hall Webster, Surgeon Superintendant

Karina: Webster’s accounts sometimes appear to be a day out.

BRISBANE, QLD

City of Melbourne, ASN Co’s ss 615 tons, Captain D Walker, at Brisbane Roads, from Melbourne, via Sydney, in ballast.

Passengers – From the Netherby:

Mr Townsend, Misses Townsend (2), Masters Townsend (3), Mr and Mrs Gill, Mr and Mrs Grimes and 2 children, Miss Thomas, Miss Stutchbury. Messrs Young, Dixon, Evans, Crawford, Vincent, Duppy, Webster, Dr Webster (surgeon-superintendent), Mr Lockhardt (purser), and 197 ½ in the steerage.

Shipping intelligence, The Queenslander 11 Aug 1866

BRISBANE, QLD

Shipping news:

The Netherby: A telegram was received by the agent of the ASN Company here, on Saturday, stating that the City of Melbourne ss, had left Sydney on Friday morning, with 225 of the passengers by the above ship. The City of Melbourne was expected to arrive in the bay last evening, but owing to her deep draught of water she will not come up the river. Accordingly the Ipswich, river steamer, was despatched to meet her on her arrival at the bar. She will return to town this morning with as many of the passengers as convenient, and if necessary make another trip to the bay to bring up the remainder.

Shipping news:

The Ipswich went alongside yesterday (Monday) at daylight, and the passengers and luggage with which they had so kindly been supplied by the people of Melbourne, were quickly transferred to her deck. She returned to Brisbane, and landed the passengers at the Queen’s wharf about 10am. The City of Melbourne brings a number of the first and second cabin passengers besides 197 1/1 (adults) steerage passengers. Advices have also been received that the ASN Co’s Alexandra, which arrived in Sydney from Melbourne on Saturday last had 80 more of the shipwrecked people on board. They are to be forwarded to Brisbane as soon as possible, but whether the steamer named will bring them here or the will be transshipped is not at present known.

Shipping news The Brisbane Courier 6 Aug 1866.

Shipping news

The Brisbane Courier 7 Aug 1866

Karina: I have not yet located any passenger lists for the Alexandra, nor any additional arrivals lists into Brisbane in this week with any matching passenger names.

BRISBANE, QLD

City of Melbourne departed Brisbane 3.25pm for Sydney, having landed Netherby passengers.

Empire Sydney shipping notices 8 Aug 1866

7 Aug, Tuesday:

MELBOURNE

Captain Owens was the guest of a Mr JG Burtt MLA at a lecture held at the Temperance Hall Russell Street. Captain Owens, in a speech, described himself as a teetotaler of eighteen years standing.

The Argus 8 Aug 1866

SYDNEY

Alexandra ss departed Sydney for Melbourne.

Shipping notices The QLDer 11 Aug 1866

Karina: If Netherby passengers were on board – did they stay in Sydney or were they transshipped to another vessel to Brisbane.

8 Aug, Wednesday:

MELBOURNE

We have received from Mr WB Stephens a copy of the Netherby Gazette, a journal published on board the unfortunate vessel lately wrecked on King’s Island. Bound up with the Gazette is also an interesting account of the shipwreck and the subsequent adventures of the passengers. Altogether, it is a very interesting record of the several events referred to.

The Age 8 Aug 1866

Karina: WB Stephens was a stationer and was also on the relief fund committee.

SYDNEY

Shipping notices: Arrived in Sydney, City of Melbourne, from Brisbane, having landed the Netherby’s passengers.

Leader 11 Aug 1866

Karina: The City of Melbourne on its return voyage to Melbourne.

9 Aug, Thursday:

MELBOURNE

Advertisement:

Steam to Sydney. Conveying goods and passengers for Brisbane and Rockhampton. Reduced fares. The ASN Co’s  (The Australasian Steam Navigation Company) steamer City of Brisbane will be despatched on Thursday Aug 9 at 2pm. Trains will convey passengers and luggage to Sandridge Railway Pier up to 1.15pm. Steerage, 2 pounds. Return tickets first class 9 pound.

The Argus ad 7 Aug 1866

ON BOARD CITY OF BRISBANE STEAMER

Captain Owens sent a letter to the editor of The Age dated 9 August from the steamer City of Brisbane, giving his heartfelt gratitude to the ladies and gentlemen of Melbourne and especially the committee of the Relief Fund, Hon JG Francis, Messrs Butters, Everard, Aarons, Robertson, and Mr Tankard of the Temperance Hotel.

The Age 11 August 1866

MELBOURNE

Passengers Bluett, Attwood and Springett left for Brisbane on the steamer City of Brisbane.

Excerpt: The Ballarat Star 10 Aug 1866: The three men – namely, Messrs Blewit, Atwood, and Springett – left for Brisbane today, each of them having been presented with twenty pounds by the committee for their gallant conduct in accompanying Mr Parry, the second officer, to Barwon heads, in the ship’s boat.

Listed as incoming passengers in Brisbane Courier 17 Aug 1866

10 Aug, Friday:

SYDNEY

Shipping notices: City of Melbourne departed Sydney returning to Melbourne, having landed the Netherby passengers in Brisbane.

Shipping notices Empire Sydney 11 Aug 1866

11 Aug, Saturday:

SYDNEY

Shipping notices state arrival at the company’s wharf Sydney, 11 Aug at 6.30pm

Passenger list includes Captain Owen, GF Springate, W Atwood, HP Blewitt.

Shipping notice in the Empire 13 Aug.

14 Aug, Tuesday:

SYDNEY

In Sydney 13 Aug, City of Brisbane, Steamer, 504 tons, Knight, for Moreton Bay. ASN Co agents.

Departed Sydney 14 Aug 5pm, City of Brisbane, for Brisbane.

Captain Owens not in the outgoing passenger list in Sydney Mail.

Outbound passengers list Sydney Mail includes Bluett, Attwood, Springett.

Shipping notices in the Empire 14 Aug, and Sydney Mail 18 Aug.

Karina: We can assume from this that Capt Owen’s disembarked in Sydney – possibly for a return voyage to the UK.

MELBOURNE

The City of Melbourne arrived back in Melbourne, having landed the Netherby passengers in Brisbane.

Shipping notices Empire Sydney 15 Aug 1866

15 Aug, Wednesday:

BRISBANE

Government advertisement in the Brisbane Courier.

Notice to immigrants ex Netherby. A limited number of free passages to Bowen, Port Denison, will be given to single men, ex Netherby, provided application is made at this office within 3 days. Signed John McDonnell, Immigration Agent.

Brisbane Courier 15 Aug 1866

16 Aug, Thursday

BRISBANE

City of Brisbane arrived in Brisbane via Moreton Bay by the south passage at 11.40am. Passenger list included GF Springate (Springett), W Atwood (Attwood) and HP Blewitt (Bluett).

Shipping notices Brisbane Courier 17 Aug 1866

18 Aug, Saturday

BRISBANE

Arrangements have been made to forward a number of the passengers of the Netherby to Bowen, Port Denison, by the brig Spray, which vessel sails for that port on Monday next. The passages are offered free to all who chose to accept of them. About 40 applications have already been made; and it is believed that more will be received before the vessel sails.

The Queenslander 18 Aug article

21 Aug, Tuesday

BRISBANE

Shipping outwards: Spray, brig, 142 tons, Captain Sykes for Port Denison. Passengers: 40 in the steerage.

Shipping notices. Brisbane Courier 22 Aug

Karina: No notices found for its arrival in Port Denison, Bowen, so no names found yet.

1 Sep, Saturday

MELBOURNE

John Parry and McFadzean return to Melbourne from King Island on board the salvage cutter Ben Bolt captained by T Leggatt

Shipping notices The Age 3 Sep 1866

12 September, Wednesday:

NORMANBY, QLD

Incredibly, after surviving the wreck, walking to the lighthouse with Parry, rowing across Bass Strait in the whaleboat, reaching Victoria, making his way to Melbourne, venturing on to Brisbane; Sadly 21 year old William Attwood died after being thrown from a horse at Fassifern near Normanby.

Death notices and news articles Queensland Times 13 Sep 1866.