Ketch Wrecked

After sailing half way round the world from England, a trim 27 ft. 6 in. sea-going ketch, the Grey Dragon, met its end when it was pounded to pieces on the rocky coast in the northern corner of Hicks Bay.

Sailed by its three part-owners, two Australians and an Englishman, the ketch grounded dangerously close to the rocky foreshore, and despite efforts to save it, was broken up when it was dashed onto the rocks by the incoming tide.

The vessel's engine and most of its contents were saved before the tide came in.

Two members of the crew braving the surf to run the anchor out in an attempt to hold the Grey Dragon off the rocks.

The three part-owners and crew of the ketch standing amongst the wreckage are, from left: Doug Dufty (Aust.), Bill Corbett (England), and John (Buck) Rogers (Aust).

Letters of the vessel's name washed in with the wreckage

The three crew members preparing the ketch for its salvage attempts shortly after it had grounded.

The crew and some friends rummaging among the wreckage strewn over the rocks.

Another mishap, of a different nature, which happened on the East Coast coast-line recently occurred when a heavy truck left the road at Makarori and plunged down to the beach, coming to rest upside-down. It is pictured during salvage operations.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 101 : November 1, 1962

Ketch Wrecked