The 'Little Blue Boat' is a beloved symbol of Hobart's maritime history, and its restoration is a testament to the power of community effort and dedication. The boat, officially named Sea Breeze, was built by Robin Attrill in the early 1970s and became a familiar sight for commuters on the Brooker Highway. After being battered by a storm and unmoored in 2024, the boat was sold for a symbolic $1 to the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, where a team of volunteers and students embarked on an 18-month restoration project. The restoration process was a labor of love, with volunteers and students working tirelessly to bring the boat back to its former glory. The team faced the challenge of finding the correct shade of blue, which was a crucial step in the restoration process. The boat was completely stripped, assessed for damage, and then meticulously repaired and painted. The volunteers and students worked side-by-side, with volunteers putting in new ribs, a new stem, and a new keel, while students assisted in repairing the hull and other tasks. The project was a difficult one, but it was a great opportunity for the volunteers and students to learn and collaborate. The boat's launch is a significant moment for the Attrill family, who will see their beloved vessel take to the water two months after the passing of the boatbuilder. The family's connection to the boat is deeply personal, and the restoration process has been a way to honor their history and maritime culture. The Wooden Boat Centre is now seeking a long-term custodian for the boat, looking for an organization that can take it on and use it within the community. The boat's future is uncertain, but there is a possibility that it may return to its traditional mooring, as the group that bought the mooring is still in the process of restoring it. The 'Little Blue Boat' restoration is a remarkable example of how a community can come together to preserve history and bring a beloved symbol back to life.
