Changing tack in Docklands

We see plenty of “changing tack” in action in Victorian state politics currently. Nautical terms bob up in common use across aspects of life. Sailors change tack by using the wind to turn the vessel in a new direction.

Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network’s (MMHN) monthly column is both changing tack and continuing the full-steam-ahead approach, moving forward from wind power to coal power to go forward in an optimistic new direction and to sail forth under a new masthead – The Melburnian.

Curiously, the publishing term “masthead” originated from the nautical term for the top of a ship’s mast, where a vessel would fly its flag or colours. From the early 1800s, masthead in the United States came to refer to a newspaper’s name or motto on its front page, while in the United Kingdom the term has traditionally been used for the newspaper’s title and, in some publications, the page listing editorial and publication details.

Other nautical terms have also found their way into the publishing world. “Scuttlebutt” is derived from a hole (the “butt”) cut into ships’ water drinking casks around which sailors gathered to gossip and share news. In a similar way, journalists today gather in newsrooms today to share scuttlebutt – gossip, news and rumours.

The modern information source, the blog, perhaps evolved from the ship’s log, which was used to record a vessel’s speed and daily events. When journalists try a new angle or approach in an investigation, this is often described as taking a different tack.

MMHN warmly acknowledges and congratulates Hyperlocal News for publishing Docklands News with professionalism, integrity and a steadfast commitment to the Docklands community over many years.

We are especially grateful for the opportunity Hyperlocal News has provided MMHN to share Melbourne’s rich maritime heritage through our regular column, helping connect residents and visitors alike with the unique maritime story of the Docklands precinct.

Although Docklands News has now reached the end of its voyage, MMHN’s monthly column will continue online and, from time to time, in print in The Melburnian. We eagerly anticipate the launch of its inaugural edition.

In keeping with the nautical theme, we are confident that The Melburnian will prove to be “first-rate” – of the highest quality; “yar” – nimble, lively and ready for action; and “shipshape and Bristol fashion” – well ordered, polished and impeccably prepared.

Finally, this fascinating archival footage of the Port of Melbourne in 1961 was sent recently to MMHN. It presents a wonderful behind-the-scenes footage of the routing of a ship upriver, allocation of berths and tugs, harbour traffic control, cargo handling from ship to rail and road truck, future planning for the harbour, routine inspections and dredging, and a first aid and rescue squad in action.

MMHN would be delighted to hear from members of the Docklands community. If this video sparks a memory, raises a question, or inspires a thought, we’d love you to share it with us.

We wish the editorial team every success and look forward to continuing our partnership in bringing stories of Melbourne’s maritime heritage to a wide and appreciative readership. •