3 days ago
Wollongong man completes mammoth six-year steamboat build in backyard
Ask Andrew Scobie his secret to building a 20th-century steamboat in his backyard shed and he will say it took a "couple of cups of coffee and maybe a couple of beers".
The Wollongong man spent up to three hours a day for six years working on the passion project, all because he was tired of watching television.
"I was bored … so I thought it'd be nice to tinker in the shed," Mr Scobie said.
"And quite a few years back, I built a model steam train with my father so we thought, 'We like all things mechanical, so let's venture onto a new project.'"
The 58-year-old has now completed a seven-seater steam-powered vessel designed for family adventures on some of Australia's most picturesque waterways.
It was inspired by the Edwardian era of steam travel and incorporates authentic details like shiny brass fixtures, red leather seats, a steam engine and chimney.
"If you were on a boat, for instance, and had a loose bit of timber, it was a very easy fuel source and mode of transport."
The University of Wollongong staffer, husband and father financed the entire build and had all mechanical elements certified.
Mr Scobie said he enjoyed making it a social activity with friends and his father, who earnt a living as a steam ship engineer.
"I sourced the hull skin and then started to do some of the fitting out. Around that time, a friend had the boiler certified," he said.
Just a few weeks out from the boat's maiden voyage, Mr Scobie's father Clarke died.
"We were trying and pushing this last year and a half, putting a lot more hours in," said daughter Caitlyn Scobie.
"Obviously he didn't make it but that's OK … I think he'd be really proud."
Mr Scobie paid homage to his dad by wearing his former sailing uniform during the boat's first run last weekend.
"We had a lot of time for each other, talking engineering and other things. It was a great connection we had over the years," he said.
The moment was witnessed by dozens of boating enthusiasts and Shell Cove locals, some of whom could not help but cheer as the boat's belly hit the water.
After a successful lap around the marina, Mr Scobie said his hobby build would be put to good use.
"I look forward to the next weeks, months, years enjoying sunny days like this on the water," he said.
