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An advertisment for Chapman launches, source unknown.

Cormorant

Vessel numberHV000259

Vessel Registration NumberKRMRN

Designer Chapman and Sherack

Builder Chapman and Sherack

Date1950

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 4.88 m x 1.83 m x 0.46 m, 0.3 tonnes (16 ft x 6 ft x 1.5 ft, 0.3 tons)

DescriptionCORMORANT is (4.9 m) 16 ft long, clinker-planked with the traditional plumb stem and firm-bilged hull shape used by its builders in Dundas, New South Wales. It is planked in meranti and fastened with copper nails and roves. The launch was fitted with a Blaxland Rae twin-cylinder petrol motor, manufactured under licence from the original designers and patent holders Chapman, by Blaxland Rae Pty Ltd at Camperdown, NSW.

It is an open boat, in contrast to the two cabin versions also offered by Chapman's. They had a small production line and were able to offer the public a complete package of boat and motor, ready to use. For many owners this was all they could ever hope to afford and these small launches an opportunity to go boating for the first time. Another well known small craft builder of the period was Vinco.

In 2008 CORMORANT was based in Canberra, ACT, used for fishing and camping trips including extended journeys along the Murray River. It remained in largely original condition; six planks have been replaced and a new marine plywood deck and shade canopy fitted. The owner has taken the craft by road to both Goolwa, South Australia and Wentworth, New South Wales for boat rallies where CORMORANT is widely recognised by older people whose families once owned similar craft.

SignificanceCORMORANT is awooden motor launch built in NSW. It is an affordable, transportable motor launch built by Chapman and Sherrack, with a petrol engine. This type of craft was widely used for recreational boating before and after World War II. Chapman launches were used nationwide for many decades until the type declined in the 1960s and 'tinnies' became popular.