SS John Oxley

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The John Oxley is an Australian coastal steamer, built in 1927 in Scotland. The ship was used as a pilot ship until 1968. In 1970, it was aquired by the Australian Heritage Fleet, and is currently undergoing a restoration. She is the last surviving Australian coastal steamer.

History

As pilot boat and buoy and lighthouse tender

The John Oxley, after arriving in Australia in the late 1920s, was put to her built usage as a pilot ship and buoy tender. She was taken over by the RAN in 1943, and was retruned to her former duties in 1946. She was also converted from coal to oil power that same year. She continued to serve in her pre-war role until 1968.

In Heritage Fleet

In 1970, she was acquired by the Australian Heritage Fleet after being disposed by the Queensland Government. The ship saw very little usage until 1997, when restoration on another ship, the James Craig, Was completed. She was drydocked at this time and currently remains in drydock under restoration.

Historical significance

The John Oxley is a ship of considerable historical significance in maritime heritage preservation, as save for the propulsion method switch, she remains essentially in the exact, unaltered condition as when she was first launched.

Construction method

The ship's hull is of a riveted construction type. Some of the superstructure, including the captain's cabin and wheelhouse, is built of teak.