ED Lewis has spent decades around all kinds of boats. but there was something about Pegasus that captured his heart.
The former owner of Lewis Anchorage, at Taren Point, has been helping restore the flush deck boat — also known as a spoon-bowed lighter — since 1980.
Originally launched in 1907, the 20-metre long vessel was used by oil companies in Sydney Harbour to transport drums of oil from ship to shore, Mr Lewis said.
He said it was a working boat until 1980.
‘‘I’ve been around timber boats all my life and the shape of the hull is very pleasing to the eye,’’ he said.
‘‘I helped flip it and clean it off and said to the owners if they were interested in selling, to let me know.’’
He said the boat was built by a company called Morrison and Sinclair, who built many boats in the Harbour, and was an ‘‘absolute wreck’’ when he got it.
The ship is listed on the Australian National Maritime Museum’s list of historical vessels as it is one of only two seaworthy ships designed by naval architect Walter Reeks.
Mr Lewis said Mr Reeks, who was the first naval architect to have an office in Circular Quay, designed ferries and all sorts of other vessels.
His plans are now being redrawn by experts for future prosperity as the originals are very fragile.
The refurbishment isn’t complete but the majority of the work is finished.
Pegasus was recently returned to the water for the first time since its overhaul to allow the timbers to season. She will be lifted out again and painted before she is officially relaunched in December.
What do you think of the restoration and do you know more about the boat?