Janet's restoration

In an innovative partnership between the National Trust of Australia (Vic) and Victoria University, the historic Admiral’s barge, Janet, is being brought back to its former splendour.

Built in 1922 at Garden Island in Sydney, Janet was once fixed to the deck of warship HMAS Melbourne until the 5400-ton light cruiser was scrapped in 1928.

After years in private hands it was donated to the Trust and is now at Victoria University’s Newport Campus undergoing a $100,000 restoration.

Restoration is being executed in accordance with the original plans and, where practicable (apart from electrical tools), using the materials and techniques of the early 1920s.

The 11.5m barge has been stripped back to its teak planks and spotted gum keel and ribs, while the cabin, engine, furniture and fittings wait in storage.

There are 15 apprentices in each year of the three-year Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction.

And with Victoria University apprentices winning the Boating Industry Association of Victoria’s Apprentice of the Year Award for the past three years, the Trust is confident that the
Janet restoration is in good hands.