
The white steel props have been removed and the strake, both port and starboard has had planks fitted and attached to the frames. During this past few days the final plank has been shaped and fitted so the planking of the hullis now complete. The photos below show the plank in the shed and the space that it was fitted into. There is still much work to be done on the outside of the hull eg fairing and caulking,


Before the shipwrights and volunteers left for a break over the Christmas – New year period, all unpainted timber was given a coat of primer. This protects the timber from the elements that can either excessively dry from the heat or swell the timber from being wet.








The engine mounts are being modified and reinstalled in the engine room. The specifications of the two new engines are known and the mounts can be changed appropriately. Port and starboard mounts are being simultaneously modified and attached. The photos are looking towards the stern.
A beautifully built 12ft wooden clinker dinghy is listed on an ebay auction with the proceeds being donated to further the restoration of the Alma Doepel. The dinghy is situated in Fairfeild, a suburb of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia. If you or someone you know is interested in wooden dinghies have a look at this link. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/293889700309?ul_noapp=true


The centre section of the bow thruster has been bolted into place. The bow thruster is now ready for the drive unit to be fitted in the centre section.
As previously noted the bow thruster tunnel had been delivered to Shed 2. It has now been installed into the hull of the Alma Doepel. The bow thruster mechanical components will be installed at an appropriate time in the fitting out of the ship.



In an effort to minimise any future teredo worm infestation the rudder post has been sheaved in lead. The timber was coated in a mastic sealant and the lead sheeting covered this and was attached with copper nails. Copper and lead resist corrosion and will provide a barrier to infestation in the small space between the rudder and rudder post.




The thruster tunnel has been fabricated and has arrived at Shed 2 ready to be installed. This is the tunnel that the bow thruster unit will be housed in.
“Hi all
Pleased to say we are open to volunteers from tomorrow (Thursday) if you would like to come in.
Please note changes to entry to shed due to wharf survey. Park as usual in marked bays then use North Wharf Road sliding door to shed.
Cheers
Peter”
Received the above message from Peter Harris about the lifting of the covid-19 restrictions.
Great news for our volunteer group who can attend again from Thursday 29th October 2020