"The steam tug Wattle is historically, socially and technologically significant at the national level as the only small harbour steam tug still surviving in Victoria."
$400,000 needed to finish Wattle
Shop for gifts and support Wattle
Download our order form Questions? Email wattle1933@gmail.com
Support the Restoration Fund
- Since 2009: $1.9M raised + 50,000 volunteer hours ($2M in-kind)
- Particularly thank the Gras Foundation for two very generous donations
- Final funding gap: $400,000 to return Wattle to service
- All donations are tax‑deductible
Or use bank deposit to:
Wattle Restoration Account
BSB: 083 163
Account No: 437459324
What we'll do with your donation
- Slip + final repaint
- Purchase safety + compliance gear
- Cover insurance & licences
- Secure Marine Survey approval
How we'll express our gratitude
- Name listed on Benefactors page & Donors Board (or remain anonymous)
- Free seats on public steamings
- Discounts on charter steam events
- Pride in saving unique Australian maritime heritage
The remarkable history of Steam Tug Wattle
- “Only surviving small harbour steam tug in Victoria”.
- Launched 1933, Cockatoo Island; served Royal Australian Navy to 1969
- Became Melbourne icon running Port Phillip pleasure cruises
- Lifted ashore in 2009, undergoing extensive restoration by volunteers (50k+ hours)
- Refloated in 2015 and approaching full operational status
- Final push now: your support returns Wattle to service
