RIVER TRAFFIC ALONG
THE BRISBANE RIVER
"On
5 April 1944, we were transported to Bretts Wharf in Brisbane where
we were embarked upon the USAT SEA CAT. After
the 'Walker' this was a luxury liner. With beds and sheets in a ship
built to transport troops, good food, showers, mess stewards, man,
this was living. It beat the 'West Point.' The 'Sea Cat' served
three meals a day. The only distraction was the Merchant Marine crew
and their propensity to strike when anything displeased them. For
instance the bathing was stopped half a day because the fresh water
distillers were shut down. The crew that operated them was
displeased over something and struck for three hours. Those who obey
orders do not take kindly to such liberties. There was a war going
on, and they resented highly paid civilians putting their interest
first. We
waited in Brisbane until 7 April, when we sailed in a northerly
direction, destination unknown." The image is of the southern side
of the river.
Bill
Calhoun |