Offshore Wind Survey Unravels 150-Year-Old Coal Ship Mystery
After more than 150 years, the mystery surrounding a sunken coal ship has finally unraveled. The City of Hobart, an iron steamer, disappeared on July 21, 1877, after departing from Newcastle, New South Wales. It was bound for Melbourne but never made it. Reports indicate that on July 24, the vessel encountered trouble off the Gippsland coast in Victoria, prompting the crew to abandon ship. The wreckage’s location remained unknown until recently.
The Search for the City of Hobart
For decades, divers sought the wreck of the City of Hobart, which carried 615 tonnes of coal. The Southern Ocean Exploration group led the search, officially beginning in 2008. Mark Ryan, a diver and team leader, noted that their initial efforts were just 47 meters away from the site. Their persistence finally paid off after a new survey was conducted by Iberdrola Australia, a renewable energy company.
Unexpected Discovery
This year, divers returned to the waters off Gippsland after analyzing data from Iberdrola’s survey. During this dive in February, the shape of the City of Hobart became visible. Ryan expressed the thrill of being the first to explore the wreck, saying, “To dive a shipwreck for the first time is amazing.” The ship, built in Glasgow in 1853, weighed 645 tonnes and played a significant role in the Tasmanian trade route.
A Historical Significance
The City of Hobart was notable for its design. It represented a transitional period from timber sailing vessels to iron steamships. The ship also featured a unique propulsion system with its ‘Beattie Propeller,’ positioning the propeller behind the rudder. This design made it particularly significant in maritime engineering history.
Recent Developments
Geophysical surveys conducted in early 2025 detected the City of Hobart among other wrecks, one of which was identified as the SS Vicky. Iberdrola’s engagement manager, Renee Kurowski, described discovering the wrecks as a powerful moment. She highlighted that the effort was part of the broader research leading to the Aurora Green offshore wind project, which signifies the region’s transition from coal to renewable energy.
Preservation Under Federal Law
The site of the City of Hobart is protected under federal law, ensuring that no artifacts can be removed. Mark Ryan emphasized the importance of maintaining the wreck ‘in situ,’ allowing future generations to appreciate its significance. Divers plan to return for additional imaging and to create a 3D model for public access.
- Ship Name: City of Hobart
- Departure Date: July 21, 1877
- Weight: 645 tonnes
- Builder: Glasgow, Scotland, 1853
- Notable Design: Beattie Propeller
- Protection Status: Under federal law
With the discovery of the City of Hobart, a long-lost piece of maritime history is poised to enter the narrative of Australia’s shift towards renewable energy. Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments on this significant find.
