10 “Cedar(?) Balmain Bug – early Australian Pond Yacht

Written by Ralph on 6th February, 2010

10 Cedar(?) Balmain Bug early Australian Pond Yacht

Click here to see the auction. Currently $1428.65.

From what I can gather , I believe this little bug to have been made in Mort’s Bay Balmain as an apprentice shipwrights project.Apparently the bugs were constucted at the ferry yard, the hardware made on Goat Island, and the finished object was raffled and the proceeds given to local charity. Some time ago I managed to purchase several Balmain Bugs from the same gent, and after some introspection I offer this , the last remaining in my care. To start, the stand is definitely newish but the boat is obviously old.She measures , from bow to stern , 10 “, or approx 260mm. From bowsprit to rudders end 24″, or 600mm.From the base of the heavy keel (lead I guess ) to the tip of the mast is 44″ or 1100 mm. The beam is 6″ or 150mm. I have no idea of the materials used in the construction of the masts nor rudder . Some of the lines running to the sails have perished , and the sails themselves are somewhat stained and something has been nibbling them.The metal running gear is somewhat corroded , and the deck has a couple of splits along it (nothing desperate) which are the same width as the mast All in all this little bug is a beautiful beast that I will sadly miss. Needs must, unfortunately. Question away, friends , and I will endeavour to answer to the best of my ability.If more pics are needed, mail me with your address. Cheers ears PLEASE IGNORE THE POST QUOTED AS IT IS WRONG.eBay will not allow me to change the quote, and it will be much more. ASK me for a quote please!!! Oh , pick up is an option, and postage is too, though I would imagine to pack and post would cost , well, a LOT. The sisters of this lil’ boat cost in excess of $700 AUD to post to Canada… ouch. The post I quote is merely to appease eBay and is not necessarily the right amount. We can work that out… again, adieu. Powered by eBay Turbo Lister

10 Cedar(?) Balmain Bug early Australian Pond Yacht

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