The Mackay Historical Society and Museum has kindly displayed several items of a nautical nature at the CQU Mackay library this week, in keeping with the Orientation Week theme, 'All Aboard'.

Janet Norman, of the Mackay Historical Society and Museum, has brought along a number of items for display, including a Life Buoy from a local Trochus fishing barge called the 'Red Barge'.

Legend has it that the boat was re-named 'Outlaw' early in its life and several unfortunate episdoes followed. After several years, the boat's original name the 'Red Barge' was restored and it was smooth sailing from then on.

Also on display is a cast net donated by Arthur Gutteridge. It was made in 1955 from linen thread that was once used to do up the Hessian bags containing local sugar.

According to Janet, “The net is now illegal as the holes are too small, but it’s in excellent condition”.

Adding to the nautical feel of the library is a display case containing a Ship Log, an Azimuth (Auxiliary) Compass and a Sextant, which was purchased in Belfast in 1946 and donated to the museum by Mr Mal Small who now resides in Good Shepherd Lodge.

To find out what a Sextant and Ship’s Log are used for you’ll have to visit the library at CQU Mackay!. Members of the general public are welcome.

Photo caption: Some of the items donated by the Mackay Historical Society and Museum.