Description


The model is 100% hand built by artisans from scratch using "plank on frame" construction method

Rosewood, mahogany, teak and other exotic woods are carefully selected to build the model

Real brass & stainless steel fittings

Propellers and rudders made from brass

Laser cut doors and window. You can see thru superstructure

Hollow hull and hollow superstructure

Highly-detailed and multi-layered paint to match color of the real ship.


The Australis retains a significant place in Australian immigration history as the last ship to carry government assisted immigrants to Australian shores in 1977. She had the largest passenger capacity of any post World War II immigrant ship to regularly visit Australia and many passengers fondly remember her grandeur and remnants of Art Deco style.

History of the Ship

Originally named America, the immigrant ship Australis was designed by William Francis Gibbs and built for the North Atlantic trade – to travel between Europe and the United States. When launched on 31 August 1939 (by Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt), she was the largest passenger vessel to have ever been constructed in the United States and provided luxury accommodation for 1202 passengers in three classes.

In the midst of World War II, she was taken over by the US Navy and converted to an American troop ship capable of carrying 8175 soldiers. Realising the impact on public sentiment should America be sunk, the American government quickly renamed the ship the USS West Point. During the war, she visited ports in Europe, Africa and South America and was frequently attacked by Japanese forces.

After 12 years on the North Atlantic trade following the war, she was sold to the Chandris Line in 1965 and christened Australis, being converted to a fully air conditioned single class ship for the Australian migrant trade. A large portion of her original interior styling was maintained, and she remained adorned with many murals and Art Deco floor coverings during her immigration years.
Dimension approx.: 34? (long) x 5? (wide) x 11? (high); The model is already built, NOT a model ship kit; Hand crafted by artisans from scratch using high quality woods & metal fittings

Please note that this lot has a confidential reserve. When you leave a bid in advance of the auction, submit your maximum. The bidder who has submitted the highest bid wins the lot, provided the bid exceeds the reserve price.

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $45.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Washington

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Photos, descriptions, and estimates were prepared with the utmost care by a fully certified expert and appraiser. All items in this sale are guaranteed authentic.

In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.