CHANCE pictured in2006 at its marina berth.

Images(3)

Chance

Vessel numberHV000116

Sail NumberME 102

Vessel Registration NumberME 102

Date1903

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 6.71 m x 2.44 m x 0.76 m (22 ft x 8 ft x 2.5 ft)

DescriptionCHANCE was designed, built and owned by Mr Reynolds in Paynesville on the Gippsland Lakes, Victoria in 1903. It has the classic shape for the period with a plumb stem, elegant sheer and transom stern with a transom mounter rudder.

It is interesting to compare the 6.7 m ( 22 ft) long CHANCE with the similar but slightly bigger Victorian couta boats at around 8 m ( 26 ft) length. CHANCE has a similar half-decked layout with a rounded cockpit and coaming, a pivoting centreboard and a moderate sized gaff rig. However the transom is narrower in relation to the overall beam than that found on many couta boats, and there is a steeper run aft to the buttock lines.

CHANCE has been fitted with an engine, currently it is a small Bukh diesel. However it still retains a sailing rig and has won a number of trophies at events for gaff rigged yachts on the Gippsland Lakes.
SignificanceCHANCE is a timber fishing boat built in 1903 in Victoria. It is a rare example of Gippsland Lakes fishing vessel from the early 1900s, and represents the changes in fishing craft that took place over many decades in the region. It is in good condition and regular use on the lakes.