NERIDA racing on Sydney Harbour in 2004.

Images(8)

NERIDA launch 1933. Image courtesy Sir James Hardy.

Nerida

Vessel numberHV000015

Official Number156009

Vessel Registration NumberFY797N

Sail Number33

Designer Alfred Mylne

Builder RT Searles and Sons

Date1933

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 13.72 m x 10.05 m x 3.36 m x 1.83 m, 15.75 tonnes x 5.9 tonnes, 102.66 Square metres (45 ft x 33 ft x 11 ft x 6 ft, 16 tons x 6 tons, 1105.13 square feet)
Engine dimensions: 54 kilowatts, 4 No. (72 horsepower)
Propeller dimensions: 559.5 mm (22 in.)
Registered Dimensions: 11.67 m x 3.35 m x 2.59 m, 16.75 tons x 12.92 tons (38.3 ft x 11 ft x 8.5 ft)

DescriptionNERIDA is carvel planked and rigged as a gaff cutter. It was designed by Alfred Mylne in England who, along with compatriots Wm Fife and George Watson, were amongst the most succccesful yacht designers internationally. NERIDA was built by RT Searle and Sons of Port Adelaide, who were well known in the region for their many recreational and commercial craft. It took part in some of the early Sydney to Hobart yacht races with its SA crew, and in 1950 won the race on handicap- and is the only SA yacht to have managed to win this event.

The 13.7 metre long yacht was initially built for Tom Hardy in 1933. Hardy was a prominent figure in his home state and keenly supported yachting. It was raced regulary and also cruised in the gulf off Adelaide.

In 2006 NERIDA remains in excellent condition on Sydney Harbour, often sailing in vintage regatta days and still rigged to its original gaff sail plan.
SignificanceNERIDA is a wooden racing yacht built in Adelaide South Australia. NERIDA won the 1950 Sydney to Hobart yacht race, and in 2006 it is still the only South Australian yacht to have achieved this honour. NERIDA is also represents an excellent example of fine yacht construction from Searle and Sons, its South Australian builders, who were one of the premier builders in Port Adelaide for many decades.