Australian trawler ‘Koraaga’ P.J. 2 (built Middlesbrough) at Grimsby 1915.

From a photographic print.

The New South Wales Government ordered three ‘Castle Class’ steam side-trawler from Smiths Dock Ltd., Middlesbrough. They were built in 1915:

‘Brolga’ P.J.1 ‘Koraaga’ P.J.2 ‘Gunundaal’ P.J.3

‘Koraaga’ P.J.2 is shown in this picture. ‘Brolga’ P.J.1 and ‘Gunundaal’ P.J.3 are shown in another photo. Note the N.S.W. Coat of Arms on the funnels.

The three trawlers were most probably at Grimsby to pick up crews who were to teach trawling to Australian fishermen. The beginnings of the steam trawling industry in New South Wales.

All three trawlers were requisitioned by the Australian Navy in 1917 for auxiliary mine-sweeping work. After the war, they were again used as trawlers.

ST ‘Brolga’ was renamed ‘Albert San’ in 1924. She was lost in 1926 between Melbourne and Sydney. All the crew got off safely. ST ‘Koraaga’ was lost after striking a reef whilst returning to Sydney in 1931. ST ‘Gunundaal’ was renamed ‘Gilbert San’ in 1928. She was wrecked in 1929 off the border between N.S.W. and Victoria.

Note: The premises of Alexander Bruce & Co, sleeper importers, Alexandra Dock can be seen in the background.