More than four years since its return to Lake Wendouree, one of Ballarat’s most famed boats has well and truly re-established its place on the water; for four days now it has been moored in the exact same place.
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The Golden City Paddle Steamer has been stuck in the mud at View Point next to the Boatshed Restaurant since Saturday evening when the captain lost control in high winds.
The boat remains grounded after failed rescue attempts with the help of the SES and Ballarat Yacht Club.
But it is not all bad news, Golden City Paddle Steamer’s president says.
The boat is scheduled to be lifted out of the water on Thursday, in time for its annual survey.
“This has actually worked in our favour this time. It is easier to pull it out of the water where it is and it was going to have to be pulled out for the survey,” Bob Wuestewald says.
A sudden gust of high wind on Saturday evening made the boat difficult to control, according to Mr Wuestewald.
No passengers were on board at the time.
He says the crew does assess wind and weather forecast before taking the boat out on the lake.
“Sometimes you're out there and the wind comes up earlier than what the weather forecast says. Normally we are safe. It has never happened before and it shouldn’t happen again.”
Mr Wuestewald did note the current water level which is slightly below capacity means the boat can not go as close to the shore in some sections of the lake.
He says the boat will be back in the water on Thursday night and ready for upcoming Christmas bookings.
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Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
