A gathering of historic vessels celebrates 100 years since Norwegian boatbuilder Lars Halvorsen, his wife Bergithe and their family immigrated to Australia in the summer of 1924–25.
As part of the museum's summer program, 16 Halvorsen vessels will be showcased at the museum wharves, highlighting the beauty and breath of their designs.
Senior Curator, Daina Fletcher said, 'Halvorsen craft are such an iconic image on our waterways – it is an honour to have so many of them here.
'While we love the elegant cruisers built for special customers you'll also see some of my favourites, in the restored, retired cruisers from the humble hire fleet, a former police boat and air-sea rescue craft and race-winning bluewater and inshore yachts, several of whom made their mark in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
'It's a wonderful gathering of craft which shows the range of the Halvorsen family's interests and achievements.'
Lars and Bergithe, Harold (Harald), Carl, Elnor, Bjarne, Magnus, Trygve and Margit either worked as shipwrights or supported the business. With seafaring in their blood, the family also assisted visiting Norwegian seafarers at the Scandinavian Seamen's Mission.
The family's legacy is legendary. Between 1925 and 1980 Lars Halvorsen Sons built 1300 vessels, with many more built independently by Bjarne, Magnus and Trygve. After World War II the family built and operated the famous fleet of hire boats from Bobbin Head, introducing boating to many people who lacked easy access to waters. Halvorsen's boatyard became famous for their sports and bridge deck cruisers, racing yachts, defence vessels and mission craft.
The beauty, exceptional craftsmanship, design and durability of Halvorsen family craft are seen here, with collectors or custodians nationwide preserving and celebrating these iconic vessels.
