Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent
The name is synonymous with producing some of the most recognisable and sought-after speedboats to race across the country, and the world.
Designed and built in Sydney using the highest quality wood, and later fibreglass, with exemplary skill, precision and craftsmanship, many refer to them as the Rolls-Royce of the waterways.
And while it has been several years since the last vessel was manufactured and launched, the Clarence River and the BIG4 Big River Holiday Park and Ski Lodge in Grafton will host what is expected to be a buoyant reunion later this month as admirers of the remarkable Hammond Craft speedboats unite to share and promote their special history and the endless joy they have given and continue to give those lucky enough to own one.
Founded over 70 years ago by renowned shipwright Harry Hammond who was later joined in the family business by his son Mark, Hammond Craft built some of the most versatile speedboats in the country during the 1950s and 1960s.
Upwards of 16ft in length, their simple yet elegant design featured an extensive eye for detail, and they were powered by a sharp Ford flathead V8 engine.
One of their most famous creations, Miss Australia, was built in 1961 for Laurie O’Neill, who transported the speedboat to the USA where he fitted a 600hp Chrysler prior to racing the vessel, later recording speeds of up to 160km/h.
In recent years, Miss Australia has returned to the ownership of the Hammond family, who are looking forward to sharing its illustrious history at the upcoming reunion.
A passionate advocate for Hammond Craft and the incredible legacy her father-in-law has established, Di Hammond said she is eagerly anticipating the reunion, and said the Clarence River is the perfect location to host the event.
“The area has a lot of history,” she explained.
“Especially the river, and we thought ‘what better way to celebrate Hammond speedboats then by placing their history on the Clarence River’.
“We want to educate the public on the significant history of Hammond Craft and share it with everyone, especially the younger generations.
“These little boats are part of the nations maritime history which go back more than 70 years, and they’ve brought a lot of joy into people’s lives.
“They’re a beautiful speedboat, and we have at least 10 confirmed for the reunion.
“We can’t wait for the event, and hopefully we will have quite a collection of Hammond speedboats on display.”
The Hammond Craft reunion will take place on September 17 and 18.
This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 7 September 2022.
