JESAMINE in 2010 at Sorrento for an overhaul

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Jesamine

Vessel numberHV000400

Sail NumberC 1922

Vessel class 21 Foot Restricted Class (1907 - 2007)

Date1921-1922

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 7.62 m x 6.4 m x 2.36 m x 0.76 m (25 ft x 21 ft x 7.75 ft x 2.5 ft)

DescriptionJESAMINE has a carvel planked hull with a spoon bow profile, and the raked transom associated with the 21 Foot Restricted Class rules. The profile has a shorter overhang at the stem and deeper forefoot than other craft more orientated to racing purposes. It now has an oval shaped cockpit which was more suitable for its fishing days.

JESAMINE only raced for a short period. It represented Victoria in the 1924 series for The Forster Cup but did not feature in any high placings. In the lead up to the racing it was suggested it would be at its best in lighter winds.

In 2010 JESAMINE retains its gaff rig and has been overhauled and restored for use as a recreational pleasure boat with the rare distinction of being able to race with the couta boat fleet or to race as a 21 Foot Restricted Class yacht. It was restored by 'Dugga' Beazley, a popular identity and fisherman from Port Phillip, but is now owned by a descendant of the builder.
SignificanceJESAMINE was built as a wooden 21 Foot Restricted Class yacht in 1922 by Mitch Lacco at Queenscliff, Victoria. The class was famous between the two world wars when they raced for the premier interstate series called The Forster Cup. It is probably the earliest 21 Footer still extant in sailing condition, and emphasises the strong connection this racing class had with the working boat traditions of Victoria. Mitch Lacco built the craft for himself and was one of the most important early builders of the well known Victorian couta boats. JESAMINE was later converted to the style of a couta boat and then used by Lacco as a fishing boat for decades on Port Phillip.

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