Kiama Show Lift Out
Kiama’s Wayfarer II
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Lleytons Lens
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Jamberoo Sevens
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[ 25 January - 7 February]
FREE COMMUNITY PAPER Distributed In The Kiama LGA
Rex, John, Don and Rookie
Minnamurra Kiama Downs Jamberoo Bombo Kiama Kiama Heights Gerringong Gerroa
Restored MV SIGNA’s Maiden Voyage Lleyton Hughes After nearly three years of meticulous restoration, the iconic MV SIGNA set sail once again from Kiama Harbour. Around 30 supporters gathered at the harbour on Wednesday, 22 January 2025, at 6 AM to see the boat off on its journey to Tasmania for the Wooden Boat Festival. The restoration of the MV SIGNA began when it was lifted out of Kiama Harbour on 17 July 2022. The vessel was
re-launched into the water on 8 May 2024, though some work remained before it was truly seaworthy. Now, after almost three years of dedicated effort, the boat returned to the open seas, thanks to the hard work of this crew. Led by Don, Rookie, Smokey, Rex, and John, this crew not only restored the SIGNA but will also sail it to Hobart (except for Smokey), where it has secured a prime spot at Constitution Dock a coveted location selected from over 400 applicants.
The Australian Wooden Boat Festival, held annually in Hobart, is one of the most celebrated events in the maritime community, and the SIGNA’s selection for Constitution Dock is a significant honor. For the crew, the voyage represents the culmination of years of hard work and a deep personal connection to the vessel. It’s a proud moment, not only for them but for the entire Kiama community, which has supported the restoration effort from the
very beginning. In a post on Facebook, John Hansen’s wife, Sandra, expressed gratitude to the Kiama community for their unwavering support. John shared with The Bugle: “We’ve had so many people in the community come down to see the boat after reading about it in The Bugle. It’s been overwhelming!” The crew had originally set a goal to raise $10,000 to fund the voyage but are still a bit short of their target. If you’d like to contribute, you can
make a last-minute donation by calling The Bugle at 0412 415 101 during business hours (9 AM - 5 PM, Monday to Friday). The Bugle would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the crew of the MV SIGNA. We wish them smooth sailing as they make their way to Tasmania and look forward to seeing the
vessel shine at the festival. Our reporter, Steven White, will be on hand in Hobart to catch up with the crew. The Bugle will also be providing regular updates online. The MV SIGNA is one of two local boats appearing at the Wooden Boat Festival. Read the story about the Wayfarer II on page 10.