Efren worked on the ship in 1977 along with his brothers (Ike - on piano, Ernesto - guitar and Rufino - drums). Efren was on bass guitar plus their friend Lito who was the vocalist, I'm sure many of you will recall "The Standards" who used to play in the Ballroom most nights. Efren and his brother Rufino are still playing in the band around the Melbourne area. They do weddings, Oktoberfest, cover band shows etc... but only on the weekends.

Welcome all visitors to the S.S. Australis Website, which has now been online since 1998! I will continue to update the site if I receive a new story, or if you have interesting photos taken on the ship during your voyage on either the southbound, northbound, or on one of the South Pacific cruises. We used to do those trips several times a year from Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland (New Zealand). I am deeply moved by the interest and wonderful contributions from the numerous passengers and crew over many years. You can send an e-mail to me on the link below: A HUGE THANK YOU Warm Regards Ken