Bowen Independent in Bowen, Queensland

Waratah Inquiry Court Finds Ship Was Seaworthy

The Court of Inquiry into the loss of the Waratah delivered judgment finding the vessel properly stowed with sufficient stability and seaworthy. It could not determine the exact cause, though the ship was last seen in a storm and likely capsized, leaving the owners under heavy inference. The inquiry noted gaps in understanding the vessel’s maiden voyage and the crew’s conduct.