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The MFV Tacoma: A Living Piece of Australian Maritime History

Step aboard a beautifully restored historic fishing vessel and discover the rich maritime history of Australia's fishing industry.

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The Tacoma Preservation Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving the Motor Fishing Vessel (MFV) Tacoma, Australia's first purpose-built purse seine fishing boat. Moored in Port Lincoln Marina, the Tacoma offers a glimpse into the pioneering days of the Australian fishing industry and the lives of the Haldane brothers, who built her.

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Local tips

  • Call ahead to book a guided tour, as tour times may vary and are subject to volunteer availability.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring a historic vessel with uneven surfaces.
  • Consider bringing a hat and sunscreen, as the tour is primarily outdoors on the marina.
  • Check the Tacoma Preservation Society's website or Facebook page for special events or restoration days.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre on Adelaide Place, walk south towards the foreshore. Turn left onto Tasman Terrace and follow the road along the water, passing the Makybe Diva statue. Continue onto Proper Bay Road, then turn right onto Sandy Point Drive. The Tacoma will be moored at the end of Sandy Point Drive, within the Port Lincoln Marina. The walk is approximately 2.5km and should take around 30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Port Lincoln town center, check local bus routes for services heading towards the Port Lincoln Marina. Premier Stateliner operates bus services in the area. Alight at a stop near the marina and follow signs to Sandy Point Drive. The MFV Tacoma is moored at the end of the road. A single bus fare within Port Lincoln typically costs a few dollars. Check the latest schedules as not many public transport options are available.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Port Lincoln, a taxi or ride-share service offers a direct route to the Tacoma Preservation Society at the Port Lincoln Marina. The destination is Sandy Point Drive. A taxi fare from the town center to the marina is approximately $12-$20 AUD. Taxi services include Suburban Taxis Port Lincoln and Lincoln Taxis.

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Discover more about The Tacoma Preservation Society

The Tacoma Preservation Society safeguards a significant piece of Australia's maritime heritage: the Motor Fishing Vessel (MFV) Tacoma. This vessel, Australia's first purpose-built purse seine fishing boat, revolutionized pelagic fishing in the country. Launched in 1951, the Tacoma represents the ingenuity and hard work of the Haldane brothers from Port Fairy, Victoria, who constructed her between 1944 and 1951. Today, the Tacoma is moored at the Port Lincoln Marina, where the Tacoma Preservation Society is undertaking a complete restoration. The society offers guided tours, providing insights into the vessel's history, construction, and impact on the tuna and prawn fishing industries. Visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs of the Haldane family and the evolution of fishing techniques in Australia. The society also focuses on marine environment education, sustainable fishing practices, and the human stories of fishermen, including the contributions of Croatian fishermen after World War II. Visiting the Tacoma is more than just a tour; it's an immersive experience that brings history to life. It's a chance to connect with the past, appreciate the innovation of early Australian fishermen, and understand the importance of preserving our maritime heritage.

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