Vessel type: Paddle Steamer two masted schooner rig of 119 tons
Date lost: 11 March 1847
Cause of loss: Rough weather, engine malfunction and lack of knowledge of the South Passage Bar
Number of Casualties: 46 out of 56
Location/water depth: Broken up
In March 1847, the paddle steamer Sovereign was on her way to Sydney. Whilst trying to cross the South Passage Bar she ran aground. The wool bales on the deck shifted. The recently salvaged and repaired engines shifted and failed. The stricken vessel broke apart on the large breaking waves of the bar.
Upon seeing the tragedy unfolding, six Moreton Bay (Quandamooka) Aboriginal men swum out to the stricken paddle steamer. They risked their lives and managed to rescue 10 people, including the captain. The pilot crew put to Brisbane to transport the survivors and convey the tragic news. The treacherous South Passage Bar continues to claim lives to this day.
Toompani, Woondu, Nuahju, Nuggun, Juckle Juckle, Poonipun
Upon regaining consciousness, one survivor found himself and others hanging upside down from trees. At first he panicked, but then realised it was done by the quick thinking rescuers to drain water from their lungs. In recognition of their bravery, these Quandamooka men were given engraved brass plates and a gift of a boat, by the grateful Colonial Government.
Objects of interest (artefacts, images or other collection items) associated with the shipwreck story.
The Queensland Museum has the original remaining breast plates.
AMMC Member Institution
North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum
submitted by Elizabeth Gondwe
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