Inquest into the Pearl Ferry Disaster in 1896

Background

After floodwaters had seriously weakened the Victoria Bridge in February 1896 the ferry Pearl under Captain James Chard was brought in to convey commuters across the Brisbane River. On 13 February, with floodwaters swirling fiercely downstream, Chard had considerable difficulty keeping his vessel under control; on one occasion the ferry actually brushed against the davits of the steamship Normanby which was anchored close by. Late in the afternoon the Pearl was filled to capacity as yet another difficult crossing was made, but this time disaster struck when the ferry hit the stern of the Normanby and Chard ordered the engineer to shut down the engines. Caught by the current, the ferry was driven onto the anchor chain of the moored government yacht Lucinda, and torn almost in half by the overhanging bow. Keeling over, the Pearl sank within seconds, and although dozens of small craft rushed to the scene many passengers were either killed in the collision or washed downstream in the floodwaters. At least 57 people lost their lives. Captain Chard was among the survivors, and his certificate and licence were cancelled after a subsequent Marine Board of Inquiry. The Pearl tragedy remains Australia’s worst river disaster.

 

Discover more