Shipwreck: the true story of the ‘Dunbar’

A talk with Larry Writer

Saturday 28 October 10.00 for 10.30

Marrickville Library and Pavilion, Patyegarang Place, Marrickville Road, Marrickville.

Acclaimed author Larry Writer (‘Razor: A true story of slashers, gangsters, prostitutes and sly grog’, and ‘Bumper, the life and times of Frank ‘Bumper’ Farrell’) will be speaking on his latest book, ‘The Shipwreck’.

Larry will tell the story of the destruction of the clipper ‘Dunbar’ in 1857 near the gap at Sydney’s South Head. One of the most advanced and celebrate ships of the mid-19th century on only its second voyage to Australia ‘Dunbar’ was smashed to pieces on rocks just outside our harbour. 

This tragedy had a profound effect on the people of Sydney and would also lead to changes to navigation and marine safety.

The funeral procession from George Street to Camperdown cemetery was watched by more than 20,000 people or 35% of Sydney’s population. It didn’t reach the cemetery until seven in the evening. 

Over 120 people died in the wreck but one man, James Johnson survived. He became a minor celebrity and would end his days in his home on The Boulevarde in Lewisham.