TWO vessels in Warrnambool’s Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village harbour have been added to the Australian heritage register.
The Reginald M and Viator were given the tick of approval by the Australian Maritime Museums Council.
Flagstaff Hill is the Victorian representative on the national body.
An extensive history of the vessels had been compiled by Deakin University cultural heritage student Siranne Hose and submitted to the council.
Reginald M was first launched in South Australia in 1922 and served many purposes until being bought by Flagstaff Hill in 1975 and restored as a display vessel.
The Viator is one of the oldest remaining Victorian barracouta boats, constructed in Williamstown early last century.
It was restored in 2006 with a $4000 government grant.
Flagstaff Hill manager Peter Abbott said the listings highlighted the importance of the village fleet.
Ironically one vessel, the Rowitta, is likely to be removed from the fleet under a proposed village rejuvenation.
The former steam-powered vessel has rotted badly after more than 30 years sitting in the freshwater harbour.
For three decades early last century it plied the Tamar River in Tasmania before service with the navy during World War II and was later bought by Flagstaff Hill and trucked to Warrnambool.
Under a proposed master plan the Rowitta would be removed and that section of the harbour devoted to an expanded commercial boat building operation.
Opinions are being sought from the community. There will also be a free tour on Saturday at 1pm.
pcollins@fairfaxmedia.com.au