For many years she was deserted as a wreck in Tasmania but between 1970 and 2000 Sydney Heritage Fleet restored her to her original glory, allowing her to be regularly sailed by her dedicated volunteer crew, taking paying passengers to sea for the day.

A ship like James Craig needs ongoing maintenance and she is to a large extent maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers.

There is a very special camerarderie amongst the people who help look after this lovely old lady; after all, there are not many places in the world where you can experience this bond.

However, due to her size and complexity James Craig needs more volunteers to meet the ongoing demands of standards, safety, compliance and appearance.

The main areas of maintenance are: • Standing and running rigging – fibre and steel rope, blocks, shackles, chains and fittings • Masts and yards – steel and timber • Timber deck and timber rails and superstructures • Sails • Engines – including generators and pumps etc. • Hull externally and inside bulwarks (steel).

Most of the above probably sounds quite foreign to people who are unfamiliar with sailing ships. Please do not let this deter you. Staff and existing volunteers are happy to induct and mentor you through the inevitable initial learning / training stages as well as provide ongoing support.

Maintenance is done Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from about 0730-1500 but volunteers can work their own hours within this timeframe.

If you are interested or even just want to ‘suss it out’ come to James Craig at Wharf 7 in Pyrmont for a chat on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday and call Ainslie Robinson 0402 916 692 or for more information.

Sydney Heritage Fleet applies comprehensive work, health and safety procedures. Please note that for insurance purposes you will need to become a member of Sydney Heritage Fleet ($85 / $60 pa) and we invite you to attend a Fleet Discovery Day to discover more, ahead of any commitment. More information about this from our office: 02 9298 3888