“I don’t need the facts. I’m a Pisces.”
Built in 1977 by renowned local boatbuilder Jack Pompei, Pisces is a 46’ shark fishing boat. The plans were informed by legendary boatbuilder and designer Ken Lacco. She is generally considered to be a sister ship to the Ken Lacco designed, Garry Stewart built Jane Kerr. Jane Kerr is just 2’ longer than Pisces and was built as a crayfishing boat for Garry Kerr in Portland in 1981.
PISCES was famously involved in a collision with the bulk carrier IRON PRINCE off Port Nelson in 1995. While she sustained damage from the 539’ ship, she did not sink and was escorted into the Portland area for repairs.
A true blue fishing boat...
From her early days PISCES worked from Apollo Bay, venturing into Bass Strait for shark fishing and netting. After a stint at a few other Victorian west coast ports, she was eventually taken to Queensland where she was used as a vessel for fishing the black tipped reef shark.
A few years ago, Tim Phillips, director of The Wooden Boatshop was aboard JANE KERR in Bowen, North Queensland, when he sighted PISCES underway. Following a full inspection of the boat, and enquiry with the current owner, it transpired that PISCES was languishing on her mooring, with the intent that she eventually sink.
An incredible discovery
Tim arranged to purchase the boat, and have her slipped and trucked to Victoria, where she currently rests at the Wooden Boat Shop. She presents an incredible opportunity for anyone interested in a restoration project, or for those who dream of a traditional fishing boat to take to sea.
JANE KERR has demonstarted that she is a wonderful pleasure vessel, with endless cruising possibilities.
From their expertise garnered over the years in cruising aboard JANE KERR, the wooden boat shop is perfectly placed to begin a restoration on PISCES. They plan incremental improvements and updates to the design to create a perfect blend of modern technology and comfort, with traditional beauty and style.
Specifications
Length 47’
Beam 16’1”
Draft 5’5”Power
John Deere 6068T
Sail Area 655 sqf
Berths 10
Displacement Mass 25.3 tons
For more information contact sales@woodenboatshop.com.au
THE JANE KERR