Corrugated iron dinghy
Vessel numberHV000016
Vessel type
Tinnies
Vessel type
Unusual Watercraft
Datec 1930
DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 2.62 m x 0.92 m (8.6 ft x 3 ft)
DescriptionOutback Australia has a number of river and lake waterways, and many areas can expect major flooding at irregular intervals. This corrugated iron dinghy was used for duck shooting, fishing and flood relief in inland Victoria. It was probably built by a local tinsmith in the Bendigo/Castlemaine region and the hull combines the expected features and look of a boat, with the use of agricultural materials and connections for its assembly. It could be rowed or poled along and used like a punt.
Like many bush implements, it eventually went out of use and was abandoned on the property. In this case it ended up beside a fence and was a handy 'trampoline' for the family dog Felix to use as a spring board to get over the fence. It is referred to colloquially as a corrugated iron dinghy, however by the time this craft was made, iron had been replaced by steel, but the original term still remains in use.
SignificanceThe corrugated iron dinghy was built in the Bendigo Castlemain region at an unknown date. It is an example of a small inland vessel and represents the resourcefulness and self-reliance of country Australians with their ability to adapt the materials they were familair with to other purposes.
Vessel Highlights
c 1934
Sandy Douglas
