Towing over to Stockton

This painting is a romantic reconstruction of Kings Wharf in the Port of Newcastle, NSW Australia, circa 1900.  

The building with the tower is still standing. It housed the Customs office and the tower had an important function. At the top of the tower was a pole to which a large black ball was affixed. Every day at noon the ball would drop and shipmasters in port could check the accuracy of the ship’s chronometers.

Kings Wharf was named after King George V. Earlier it had been named Queens Wharf after Queen Victoria. Ships arriving in Newcastle would discharge general cargo but would invariably load coal, for many world destinations.

In this painting the British barque Kilmeny, having discharged her inward cargo is being towed over to Stockton to await her turn to go under the coal tips at the Dyke. (a long strip of reclaimed land on the northern side of the Hunter River where the coal trains terminated) and  the loading tips and cranes were situated.

Much of the coal loaded in Newcastle during this period was destined for Peru and Chile where it fuelled the railways.

Today coal is still a major export from Newcastle, most of which is destined for China, Japan and Korea.

Print information

Fine quality giclée print on Chromajet Spectrum 225 gsm satin paper.

Although the inks used for these giclée prints is guaranteed to last 90 years under normal circumstances, their life will be reduced if hung in direct sunlight or strong ultraviolet light. They are intended to be framed under UV inhibiting glass, using acid free mounting materials. Non-reflecting glass is also recommended.

Shipping: Shipping is included in the purchase price for Australia. For other destinations please contact us for a shipping quote.

Sizes:

Small – 20 x 15cm      Regular – 30 x 21cm (A4 size)       Large – 42 x 30cm (A3 size)