On Tuesday 15th March we were able to place aboard Lady Hopetoun her two new Life rafts. Our old rafts had well and truly had their day and last year a decision was made to replace them. As you would be aware, there was a need to keep an old look to the new rafts, and therefore the only place capable of providing the rafts in the required style was our own Heritage Shipyard at Rozelle.

The end result is two (2) brand new 18 person life rafts that are larger and yet lighter than the old ones. They are able to be lifted by two people (not 4 as the old rafts required). The less weight in the rafts is also of benefit to the cabin top above the Engine Room. The new rafts are supported in such a way that will stop further sagging in this area.

I would just like to acknowledge the efforts of all the volunteers who assisted in creating these great rafts. Special thanks to Alan Stannard for fibre glassing the floatation inserts, and Ken Bryant who once again showed us his wood working skill in creating the frames.