A two-stage project: restore the Wyuna, then put her to work for veterans.
The Wellbeing Wyuna project is a two-stage project. The first stage is to bring Wyuna back to a seaworthy condition. The second is a world first approach to veterans' wellbeing.
Stage one: a seaworthy ship
By restoring Wyuna we are saving a valuable example of Australia's maritime history for future generations to enjoy. Wyuna is most likely the only vessel of her type with the ability to put to sea. Historians and maritime heritage groups describe the MV Wyuna as a "fine example of post-war shipping", and she is considered a priceless maritime historic asset because she is "the last of her line".
Stage two: a platform for veterans
Wyuna will become a platform to assist in the wellbeing of our veterans. As a veterans' project it is envisaged that Wyuna will be crewed and maintained by veterans. She will be kept in seaworthy condition so that she can go to sea to attend events anywhere around the Australian coast.
During these visits other veterans will be invited to come aboard and mingle with the crew, giving them the opportunity to come together and discuss any issues they may have in their daily lives. It is proposed to have qualified people on board at these times to assist with any personal problems a veteran may have.
Most would agree that our veterans need our help. We often hear in the media that veteran suicide numbers continue to rise. We all need to make an effort to help these gallant souls. With this world first approach we think we have a unique opportunity to create a meaningful project, using Wyuna as the veterans' wellbeing flagship.
Why the Wyuna deserves to be saved
The MV Wyuna welcomed future Australians arriving on ships to Victoria. Remaining on station at Port Phillip Heads, she was there to put a pilot on board to guide each ship in to the Port of Melbourne. Wyuna gave valuable service to the people of Victoria in her pilot ship days, and later as a training vessel for the Australian Maritime College.
She served the people well, and for that she deserves her place in Australia's history. We need to repay her service and ensure she is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
How you can help
Volunteers from the Western Port Oberon Association are working hard to make sure Wyuna survives. They give their time freely and meet some of their own expenses. Maritime materials are expensive and a ship's maintenance is a costly exercise. The volunteers can only continue the restoration work with your support.
Every dollar helps, and every donation is tax deductible. An official receipt is issued automatically as soon as you donate.
Donate through GiveNow (opens in a new window)
You can also volunteer or follow the progress reports.
Watch the video
See how together we could help the veterans who put their lives on the line while serving our country.
