Queen of Hearts

Little is known of this small, open boat except that it was gaff-rigged and painted blue.

On 13 June 1887, two men, Andrew Scott and William Roddick, left the South Jetty to go fishing. They had with them a bottle of rum, but no provisions, (West Australian, 17 June 1887: 3a) or a small quantity of food (Daily News, 16 June 1887: 3c).

About 11.00am that morning they were seen by the quartermaster on board the government schooner, Meda. However, when he looked about a half an hour later, he could see no sign of the boat or its occupants.

When the two men failed to return the following day, the water police began a search of the area near Garden and Carnac islands. The Harbour Master contacted Captain John F. Fothergill, who took his schooner, Rescue, out to search, and James George Flindell also sent his cutter, Two Sons, on an unsuccessful search for the missing boat.

On 22 June, a Perth newspaper reported that a quantity of wreckage, including some blue painted planking, had been found at Rockingham. It was surmised that this planking was from the missing boat.

On 13 July, Arthur Clarke found a mast on the beach 20 miles to the north of Bunbury. This still had sails attached, and also a piece of coir rope and a length of fishing line, and was also considered to have belonged to the boat.

The bodies of Andrew Scott and William Roddick were never found.

Nearly two months later another report in the West Australian stated:

“A box containing candles, jams, etc. and a copy of the War Cry dated 30 April 1887, was found on 20 August on the North Beach, about eighteen miles from Bunbury, by the daughter of Mr B. Pigot. Sub-Inspector Pigot who reports the matter, thinks it is likely this box belongs to the boat Queen of Hearts, the wreck of which was found near where the box was picked up.”

Initially it was thought that the boat may have blown out to sea, as there had been strong easterly winds blowing all that week. However, the finding of the wreckage, mast and sails indicated the pair had come to grief close to the coast. There appears to be no record of any inquiry.

William Roddick was well-known on the coast, having been captain of the coasting schooner, Alma. The crews of the vessels, Rob Roy, and the Perth started a subscription for the widow and two children of Andrew Scott. The amount of £11. 1s 6d was raised by the crews and given to Flindell to pass on to Mrs Scott. He stated that he would welcome further donations for the family.