From 19 to 28 January 2026, the MV Wyuna restoration crew returned to Bell Bay, Tasmania, to continue the vital work of preserving this historic pilot cutter. This trip focused on practical restoration progress, careful environmental handling, and keeping momentum in a project that protects an irreplaceable part of Australia’s maritime heritage.

The crew for this trip was Max Bryant, Bobby Stone, Sean Stone, and Rosey Kendall. Support from TT Line made the journey significantly easier by generously providing passage to and from Tasmania, helping reduce travel costs and allowing more of the project’s resources to stay focused on MV Wyuna’s Restoration.

Travel and arrival in Tasmania

Before work began, the crew travelled from Sorrento to Queenscliff, visited the maritime museum there, and then continued to Geelong to board TT Line’s vessel to Devonport. Conditions were kind, and the crossing was smooth in both directions. TT Line also provided a comfortable cabin for the four crew members, support that was deeply appreciated.

Rosey Kendall joined the crew for this trip and played an important practical role by using her vehicle to transport much-needed equipment to MV Wyuna.

After disembarking in Devonport at 8:30 a.m., the crew drove on to Georgetown. Most of the day was spent loading gear and stores aboard MV Wyuna. Once everything was on board, the team met to set practical targets for the days ahead and prepare for a fresh start the following morning.

Restoration work completed

A major focus of the trip was rust removal and surface preparation on the upper deck. Needle guns and air chisels were used to remove corrosion, particularly around the engine room and fan room vents. This work is slow and demanding, but it remains essential because there is no value in painting over rust that has not been properly treated.

The vents themselves were found to be in poor condition and have now been identified for future replacement.

At the same time, Bobby Stone and Sean Stone worked through the next painting stages. Anti-corrosion primer was applied first, followed by the first finish coats. The team then began applying the final buff coat to the bulwarks on the mid deck.

Additional rust spots on the outside of the hull near the upper deck also needed attention. To prevent paint flakes from entering the river, the crew rigged a suspended tarp beneath the work area using adjustable painter poles. This created a practical catchment system that successfully collected the debris and allowed the work to continue responsibly.

Life aboard during the trip

While the work remained the priority, the crew also made time to enjoy each other’s company at the end of the day. One evening included an Irish-themed night of songs and singalongs, which gave everyone a welcome chance to relax after demanding restoration work.

There were also the usual light-hearted moments that come with volunteer life on board. The team was reminded once again just how important the needle guns and air chisels are to this project, especially in the more difficult sections where corrosion remains stubborn.

Rosey Kendall also did an excellent job cleaning up after the rust removal work, helping keep the site organised and the restoration effort moving efficiently.

The Owl Report

There was no evidence of any seagulls on board this time.

Thank you for supporting MV Wyuna

Until the next report, cheers from Max and the crew.

Please share this update with family, friends, and anyone else who may be interested in supporting this work.

Wellbeing Wyuna and our veterans need your help. Through GiveNow, supporters can Donate To The Fund more easily and help sustain this world-first cause supporting veterans while preserving Australia’s maritime heritage.

To support the project, visit Mv Wyuna donations portal

Supporters who donate $50 are eligible to receive a free Friends Of Wyuna cap. Those who donate $100 or more will receive both a cap and a Friends Of Wyuna polo shirt. To receive these gifts, send a copy of your receipt and your mailing address to secretary@maritimecentre.com.au. Postage within Australia is free.

Friends Of Wyuna jackets are also available. If you are an individual supporter or represent a business, you may also wish to consider becoming a sponsor.

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