31/05/2026
14 years ago I was given the task of building a model boat complete with a cast iron sculpture of HMS Sirius at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth.
The other day, after a trip over to the Isle of Wight, I had a walk around the area and was disappointed to discover that it has now been removed. Funny how things change without you even realising.
Today the memories popped up on my phone and it got me thinking... 14 years! Where has that time gone?
For those who don’t know, HMS Sirius was the flagship of the First Fleet that sailed from Portsmouth in 1787 and played a major role in establishing the first European settlement in Australia. Originally built as a merchant ship called Berwick, she was later converted by the Royal Navy and renamed after Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Sadly, she was wrecked on a reef off Norfolk Island in 1790 while delivering much-needed supplies to the struggling colony.
It's always nice looking back on projects that have been part of your journey, even when they’re no longer there to see.
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