Shipwrecks - SS Casino

Our coastline is notoriously unpredicatable and treacherous.

The weather can change suddently and huge swells can spring up with little warning. Numerous ships have been lost and incredible stories of bravery and self-sacrifice are told.

In 1932 the loss of the SS Casino deeply affected the communities of Apollo Bay and Port Fairy. Built in Scotland in 1882 and powered by steam and sail, the Casino was fast and efficient.

During a period of almost 50 years SS Casino made about 2500 trips between Melbourne and the western ports, including Port Fairy, Apollo Bay and Portland, carrying farm produce and essential supplies: a record unequalled by any other coastal steamer.

On July 10, 1932, a strong south-easterly gale damaged the ship while she was trying to dock at Apollo Bay. The Captain made for the beach but the ship was taking on water rapidly. 

Several Apollo Bay residents on the shore attempted heroic rescues at great personal risk. Nine people were saved from the raging surf and ten were lost, including the stewardess who had fitted lifejackets to her passengers but did not have time to fit her own. The propeller and the bell of SS Casino now form a memorial at King George Square in Port Fairy and the ship’s wheel is displayed at the Apollo Bay Hotel.

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