CHEYNES III -Thorgrim (1947-1982)

Cheynes II Sister ship abandoned in Princess Royal Harbour

Description:

Steam Whale Chaser

Owner:

Operated by a Norwegian based whaling company. Between 1962-63 it was owned by Whale Products Co. of Queensland and named Looma III. In 1963 it was bought by the Cheynes Beach Whaling Co, renamed Cheynes III and was engaged in whaling operations in Albany until the company ceased operations in 1978.

Construction:

Steel

Sunk:

June 23 1982

Size:

440 tons length 47.9m beam 8.3m draft 4.8m

Underwater:

Albany diving identity Les Bail arranged for the SS Cheynes III to be scuttled in 1982 to create an excellent recreational diving site. The wreck lays in 30 metres of clear water on a slight angle with stern on rocks and the bow in sand. Holes were cut in the hull and bulkheads to make it safe for diving, the wreck has since split in half.

Built:

1947 by Smiths Dock and Engine Company of Teeseburgh, Middlesbrough

Location:

Michaelmas Island, King George Sound, Albany

Sinking:

The vessel was towed to Michaelmas Island and anchored several hundred metres off the island and two 20kg packs of dynamite positioned. As the vessel dragged anchor a ten-minute fuse was detonated, in just 38 seconds the hull disappeared below the waves. The main engine is at Whale world and the Steering engine was donated to the Museum by Mr Bell in recognition of its role in the project. It is on display at the Maritime Museum Fremantle.