Thread: Timber being wasted?

I think they get torched because there is a risk the boats could be carrying exotic pests in the timber. I doubt quarantine would allow the things to be dismantled and treated, but you could always ask.

John

i reckon they r just lucky they didnt get torched whilst at seas, with the fishing guys in them...

over the years some have been auctioned off, but the
majority destroyed for quarantine requirements.
Havn,t heard of any being sold for several years as I think
it has become a bit of a political issue

I've seen one in the Maritime Museum in Fremantle - I'm surprised they last long enough to be burnt the timber is so bad. I'd guess its cut, shaped & assembled while green as grass as its a mass of splits & shakes - it must be watertight only at low tide on a sandbank

In short - its only good a bonfire or a village fish poaching boat.

I went to a presentation a while ago about the quarantine problems associated with these things-trust me burning them is actually doing everybody a favour. The wood is frequently (about 30% of the time) infested with exotic termites- the ones that are found are very bad news. Add this to the other insects that can be found eg longicorn beetles. It has taken the US 8 years and many many millions of dollars to get rid of Asian longicorn beetle-we really do not want this one either.

OK people, you have convinced me.........torch the lot!!!!!!!!!........AL

yep after watching border security on channel 7 I can see why they would burn them as the boats themsevleslook like they are lucky to stay a float. Besides that the more illegal fishing boats kept out of our waters the better.

I have spent nights and days on those boats trying to keep them a float while we tow them back to Darwin or Broome. I agree that the are built green and as a result dont seem to be of great quality. The are usually infested with weird looking Cockcroaches and Scorpians. The Masts are usually a tree trunk, not unlike a small telegraph pole.
If I never see one of those things again it will be too soon, they stink to high heaven.
So thats my answer, the only reason we bring them back is for evidence. Most end up breaking up when towed at ten knotts.
Scotty