Andy Crespin was recommended to look at this site by ex-crew member Carol Mavroidaki - He never sailed on the ship but does remember the Australis at Southampton. Andy and his friend often got up at some early hour of the morning to get shots of her arriving at dawn, as well as her departing in the evening.

Andy has been scanning his old slides, and he has very kindly sent me a few 'gems' of her in Southampton from his collection. At the time he was using just a small 'Instamatic' (weren't we all! - Ken), but being on Kodak slide film, they have stood the test of time.

Andy described the memorable experiences of seeing the Australis arrive and depart at Southampton, which he used to enjoy. "It was always a smokey, steamy time when she departed. People were crying and calling out to their friends, with streamers everywhere. Then the worn out steam horn would 'blow' its 3 blasts of farewell. The tugs would be pulling full ahead, the distinctive Crossley Diesel exhaust note sounded, and smoke ensuing from their funnels indicated the hard work they were doing"

This page was designed by: Ken Ironside.

Due to a huge volume of questions I am asked, for which often I do not have the information, I have decided to ask that only ex-crew actually write to me please. I am delighted with everyones contributions, and will occasionally update the Australis web site, using photos/stories etc sent to me. However I cannot answer any more questions. Thankyou for your sustained interest in the SS Australis Homepage. Please e-mail me on this link: Contact.