Ahh, thanks for that information about the crew lists. All leads are great and am beginning to compile a list of 'things to do in Melbourne and Hobart', as I think this is where most of the voyages began. As for the marine board, I found this interesting titbit from The Mercury (Hobart, Tas), Monday 16 January 1871 'THE master of the brig Sarah, John F Booth, has reported the loss of his vessel to the Steam Navigation Board. The vessel was on her voyage from the Clarence River to this port, laden with a cargo of maize. When off Crescent Head NSW, on the 24th ult, notwithstanding all exertions being made, she was lost, and the crew saved their lives with difficulty. This was to have been a subject of inquiry before the Board yesterday. The Board called upon the master to be present, but. in the absence of the crew could not proceed with the investigation.' Thanks, Paul