Roselyn Fauth

ABOVE: Looking ship shape - finished and ready for play at Caroline Bay November 2023. - Photo Todd Mudie Group

 

In the coastal town of Timaru, a vibrant transformation has turned a playground shipwreck into a colorful homage to the area's maritime past. Researched by CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth and sponsored by Resene Timaru and the Aoraki Foundation, the shipwreck's colours were carefully chosen, inspired by stories of shipwrecks along Timaru's shores. Fauth's research, spanning over three years, uncovered captivating stories, from Timaru's renowned boxer Bob Fitzsimmons to the fates of ships like the City of Cashmere, City of Perth and the Benvenue. Working with Resene, and Eco painters Todd Mudie Group, the ship's painting ensured both visual appeal and environmental consciousness. Fauth expressed the importance of storytelling to inspire imaginative play and interest in the stories of our past. The CPlay team of volunteers, collaborated with The Playground Centre, Rooney Earthmoving and Creo to create this amazing play space, so the shipwreck is fun, and accessable to a range of ages, sizes and abilities. As CPlay gears up to opens to the public December 2023, the shipwreck story now has a new colourful chapter of play at the bay, - a result of a mammoth community effort.

 

In the coastal town of Timaru, a burst of color has transformed a playground shipwreck into even more fun and shares tales of the areas maritime past, researched by CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth, sponsored by Resene Timaru and Aoraki Foundation and painted by CPlay sponsors and Resene Eco Decorators Todd Mudie Group.

Roselyn Fauth, said, she has enjoyed learning about the shipwreck stories of Timaru, and at times found herself down tangents. She didn't realise how many peoples lives had been impacted by over 30 ships that had wrecked along the Timaru coast. An example was Timaru's famous triple world champion boxer, Bob Fitsimmons. As a teen, he had hatched a plan with a ship captain to run away from home. However when he turned up early the next morning, the ship was in pieces on the shore. With no other means to leave, Bob had to stay in Timaru and got a job working for his brother beating horse shoes into shape. Some say the physical work helped him build his strong shoulders, contributing to his competitive edge in the boxing ring. Perhaps if he had escaped on that ship, his life could have had a totally different course. Another story was learning that the City of Perth, Benvenue and City of Cashmere were all built in the same ship yard in Glasgow, and all wrecked along the Timaru Coastline in the same year 1882!

ABOVE; CPlay Volunteer Roselyn Fauth, and Hazel Jones, Todd Mudie, Resene Eco Decorator, holding up the paint, ready to paint the shipwreck at Caroline Bay October 2023. - Photo Todd Mudie Group

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"We could have chosen any old colour, but it was important to us to offer layers of story sharing in the playground. The stories that inspired the designs, can inspire imaginative play and learn about the area around them, and stories of the past." Fauth said.

Fauth learnt about the history of shipwrecks along Timaru's shores over three years, reading Museum resources, Papers Past news articles, Library shipwreck books, obituaries, even interviews of people who were involved in the sea rescues. "The colours were tricky to research as there was a bit of artistic license probably used back in the day, or maybe the artists colours were limited by their mediums and palettes. In the finish she narrowed her inspiration down to an oil painting of the Benvenue and City of Perth disaster at the PrimePort Timaru office (by Arthur Bradley, a son of one of the Benvenue rescue crew members), and a water colour of the City of Cashmere wreck at the South Canterbury Museum.

 

ABOVE; Hazel Jones, Todd Mudie, Resene Eco Decorator, paints the shipwreck at Caroline Bay October 2023. - Photo Todd Mudie Group

Hazel Jones, a painter from Todd Mudie Group, expressed her joy in contributing to the community project. "I loved painting the shipwreck for the community. It was such a pleasure! I enjoyed seeing how excited the community was to have the playground open, and the joy it had already brought everyone."

Working with Resene Eco Decorators is important to CPlay, to ensure that the playground is not only visually appealing but also environmentally conscious. Both Resene and Todd Mudie reflect a commitment to using eco-friendly paints and practices, "we prioritize the well-being of children playing in the space" said Jones.

ABOVE: Ship painting progress in the sun rise at Caroline Bay October 2023. - Photo Todd Mudie Group

Fauth was really happy with the Resene results (paint generously donated by Resene Timaru) to help bring this historical story to life. Resene’s vibrant palette has turned the ship into a living piece of our local history. From a practical point, we were able to chose colours from their range with their "CoolColour™" technology so we could choose darker colours knowing that a pigment in the paint could reflect heat so the surface wouldn't get as hot as a normal colour would and reduce the likelihood of heat related issues affecting the timber.

Jones said, "Now, when kids hop on, it's not just a playground; it’s a time-traveling adventure, they're not just seeing colours; they're stepping into a thrilling, real-life tale. This makes the CPlay shipwreck more than just a playground; it's a magical journey through Timaru’s maritime past, painting the town's story in the brightest, most exciting colours imaginable!

The shipwreck design was a collaboration with The Playground Centre and CPlay volunteers. The Playground Centre prepared the working drawings, and constructed the shipwreck. The surfacing design was designed and installed by Creo. Inside the shipwreck are sculptures of rats creeping out of grain sacks, by artist Donald Patterson, with a cute dolphin sculpture outside the ship donated by Creo. 

The playground shipwreck, with its inspiring colors and historical significance, stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the community, local businesses, and volunteers. As the ship opens to the public in 2023, a new chapter of play at the bay unfolds.

 

ABOVE: Looking ship shape - finished and ready for play at Caroline Bay November 2023. - Photo Todd Mudie Group

Fauth acknowledged the contributors of the sailing ship, and thanked everyone who has helped the CPlay team to create the playground, it's been a mammoth community effort. We can't wait to see locals and visitors play together having a ball and inspired by stories of Timaru's past. 

 

 

 Some snaps of the ships construction journey

 

Looking ship shape, painted and ready to go, next task is to complete the rubber surfacing - October 2023  - Photo Roselyn Fauth

 

Looking ship shape, the inside is painted and almost ready to go  - Photo Roselyn Fauth

 

Resene Eco Decorators, Todd Mudie Group TMG team painting the shipwreck ship shape  - Photo By Roselyn Fauth

 

 

Unearthing the Maritime Tales

Caroline Bay, nestled along New Zealand's eastern coastline, has seen its fair share of maritime drama. The Timaru roadstead was getting a reputation as ships graveyard. From November 1865 until 1890, when John Goodall's scheme of harbour works was completed, the port was the graveyard of 28 ships. The new playground at Caroline Bay is inspired by  these tales. While the ship in the playground isn't a replica of any specific vessel, it nods to the stories of Timaru's shipwreck disasters.

On 27 August 1873 three vessels, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Wanderer, and the Fairy Queen, were stranded in Caroline Bay. The latter caught fire and became a total loss. The second day of disaster came on 1 September 1878, when the Melrose, Lapwing, Fanny, and Glimpse went ashore. Luckily no lives were lost.

The year 1882, however, saw the worst disasters, with four large vessels being wrecked in four months. On 15 January, in a flat calm, the City of Cashmere dragged her anchor and became a total loss. On 2 May the Duke of Sutherland, heavily laden with wheat, bumped the bottom and sank—a total loss. The worst tragedy in the port's history, however, occurred on 14 May 1882. There were five ships in the roadstead, and two, the Benvenue (999 tons) and the City of Perth (1,189 tons), lay at the inner anchorage, about half a mile from the breakwater. The ocean swell shifted the Benvenue's cargo so that she developed a list. Later in the morning she broke loose from her moorings, drifted broadside on to the rock apron at the foot of the cliff, and capsized. Almost immediately the City of Perth broke loose. A temporary anchor checked her drift and, as the ship had by this time been abandoned by its crew, the harbourmaster determined to attempt salvage. Three boats had almost reached her when the last anchor rope snapped and the ship drifted on to the Benvenue. A choppy sea hindered the boats' crews, and in their efforts to regain land, all three boats were swamped, as also were a lifeboat and a surf boat which put out to rescue the crews. In all, nine men were lost.

Signage designed by volunteer and graphic artist Roselyn Fauth, showing the location of the shipwrecks, what they were carrying, why they wrecked and who saved them. This features on a mouse wheel at Caroline Bay with a "Rush to the rescue" game on the otherside.

 

 

 

The Artistry of Play

The heart of the new playground is the shipwreck play item, designed and built by The Playground Centre in collaboration with CPlay volunteers. What sets this bespoke play structure apart is the infusion of history into its design and colors. Volunteers undertook extensive research, studying historic oil and watercolor paintings that captured the maritime era. The result is a vibrant palette of colors that adorn the shipwreck, making it not only a play item but a nod to local history.

This colorful approach serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, it ignites imaginative play, allowing children to embark on their maritime adventures as they climb, explore, and imagine themselves as sailors of old. The shipwreck becomes a canvas for storytelling, bridging the gap between past and present.

Moreover, the carefully selected colors also help protect the timber from the elements and mitigate against graffiti. Resene Timaru generously sponsored the high-quality paint, ensuring the shipwreck will remain a striking landmark for years to come. CPlay Silver Donor Todd Mudie Group has painted the ship, with their efforts also supported by a grant donation.

Shipwreck surfacing in progress. The Shipwreck was designed by The Playground Centre with CPlay Volunteers. It was constructed in Wanganui and trucked and ferried down to Timaru. The surfacing and layout design was created by Creo and CPlay Volunteers. The mound was constructed by Rooney Earthmoving. The surface installtion was by Numat Rec.

 

A Family's Legacy

In the midst of this research journey, CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth came across a poignant connection seeing a oil painting in the office of the Port of Timaru. It was by Arthur Bradley, the last surviving son of Issac Bradley who was a member of the rescue crew from the Benevenue disaster. 

Isaac's involvement in community life extended beyond the Benvenue rescue. He served as a Justice of the Peace, was a member of various organizations, and contributed significantly to Timaru's development. His legacy lives on, and the playground, with its nod to the maritime history, pays tribute to individuals like Isaac who shaped the town's character.

The large painting (about four feet in length) of the wreck of 'City of Perth' and 'Ben Venue' at Timaru hung for many years in the Farmers tearooms and now the painting is at the Port Company Offices, Timaru at Marine Parade. The plate below the painting read : The Wreck of the Ben Venue and City of Perth 14 th May 1882. Presented to The Port of Timaru Ltd. By Arthur Bradley. Last surviving son of Issac Bradley a member of the rescue crafts crew. Located at Prime Port - Photo by Roselyn Fauth.

 

A Call for Support

The playground at Caroline Bay, with its shipwreck play item, is a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its history and creating a vibrant space for the future. The CPlay committee, comprising volunteers who have dedicated over three years to this project, has garnered substantial support from various sectors of the community.

However, there is still a need for support to ensure the project's success. Resene Timaru is being sought out for their top-notch paint supplies, necessary to protect the shipwreck from the elements and maintain its historical significance. The paint will not only preserve thetimber but also uphold the unique storytelling aspect of the playground.

The playground at Caroline Bay is set to become one of Timaru's most cherished public spaces and a prime attraction for visitors. The shipwreck, with its vivid colors and historical connection, stands as a symbol of the town's rich maritime heritage. As the playground nears completion, there is an opportunity to promote the painting process and celebrate the playground's opening.

 

ABOVE: Melanie Tracy, Resene Trade Sales Representative, looks over the colours chosen by the CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth, infront of the shipwreck soon to be painted.

 

In Conclusion

The new playground at Caroline Bay Timaru is a living testament to the town's maritime history, a vibrant blend of past and present. The shipwreck play item, with its carefully chosen colors inspired by historical paintings, serves as both a canvas for imaginative play and a guardian of local heritage. The community's dedication and support, coupled with the contributions of Resene Timaru and Todd Mudie Group, ensure that this playground will continue to inspire, educate, and entertain generations to come. Caroline Bay's history lives on, inviting children and adults alike to set sail on a colorful voyage through time.

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Ship installed ready to be painted. - Photograph by Geoff Cloake

 

Kids from the 360 Crane company owners, Spencer & Blake Johns both 2, CPlay volunteers children an their friends, Annabelle Fauth 4, Liam Doran 8, April Doran 6 and Medinella Fauth 8 watch the ship being installed.

 

The Caroline Bay Timaru playground is designed to be a unique and exceptional destination. It aims to surpass any other play area in South Canterbury and even compete on a national scale. The community-led design features various elements and themes rarely seen in existing playgrounds, some of which are specific to Timaru:

1. Accessibility: The majority of the playground is flat, flush, and fully accessible, ensuring that all abilities and users can enjoy it.

2. Inclusivity: There are numerous wheelchair-accessible play elements and a wide range of inclusive play equipment to encourage integrated play for individuals of all abilities.

3. Diverse Play Items: With over 45 new play items available, the playground offers a variety of scales, capacities, and activities to cater to different preferences and ages.

4. Entertainment and Challenges: The playground provides entertainment and challenges suitable for all age groups, ensuring that everyone can find something enjoyable to do.

5. Unique Storytelling: Bespoke play equipment and surfacing designs incorporate graphic devices and art that tell stories unique to Timaru, connecting the playground to the town's rich history.

6. Cultural Integration: Maori designs and stories are featured, paying homage to the indigenous culture, and there are nods to other Timaru cultures, creating a diverse and culturally enriched experience.

7. Amenities: The playground also includes amenities such as BBQs, seating, shelter, gathering spaces, and infrastructure for water and power services. These additions ensure the playground's versatility for future events, displays, and special activities.

 

CPlay Volunteer, Roselyn Fauth said, "There is a stunning oil painting that hangs at the Port of Timaru office, it deptics the scene of "Black Sunday" when the ships Benvenue and City of Perth lost their anchors, drifted across the bay. It was by Arthur Bradley, the last surviving son of Issac Bradley who was a member of the rescue crew from the Benevenue disaster. The Benveue crashed into the cliffs. The City of Perth hit the Benvenue. the crews were rescued and everyone seemed safe, until the Harbour Master launched a salvaging effort to save the City of Perth. At one stage 40 men were in teh "boiling sea". The rocket brigade were un able to help, and the rescue was made by crews using the 1862 life boat The Alexandra which had been out of action for 13 years. Captin Mills, including eight others died from the disaster. "

 

• Isaac Bradley married Elizabeth Harriet Edwards Heaven in 1882.
• In 1882, Isaac, along with his brothers Philip and Daniel, participated in life-saving efforts during the shipwrecks of the 'Benvenue' and 'City of Perth,' where nine lives were lost.
• Isaac and Philip, along with Carl Vogeler, were the only survivors of the 1882 shipwrecks when they were commemorated on its jubilee anniversary in 1932.
• Isaac and Elizabeth had a total of twelve children between 1883 and 1903, with two of them passing away before their parents.
• Elizabeth passed away in 1928 at the age of 66.
• Isaac, deeply involved in the local community, extended his contributions beyond the military. In 1914, he was appointed as a Justice of the Peace.
• Isaac was a member of various organizations, including the South Canterbury Caledonian Society, where he served as President and on the board of directors.
• He was the founder and former president of the North End Golf Club and one of the oldest members of the Timaru Bowling Club and former president of the South Canterbury Bowling Centre.
• Isaac was a member of the Timaru Domain Board at the time of his death and a foundation member of the Druids' Lodge.
• In 1914, he was made a Justice of the Peace.
• Isaac Bradley passed away in 1936 at the age of 76.
• He left behind a family of ten, including five sons (Percy Bradley, Arthur Bradley, Herbert Bradley, Wilfred Bradley, Edward Bradley) and five daughters (Mrs. W. Tubb, Jun., Mrs. D. Scrimogeour, Misses Olive Bradley, Florence Bradley, Rita Bradley).

 

 

18 June 2023 - Drone Photo by Jack Rushton

 

23 August 2023 - Drone photo by Jack Rushton

 

8th August 2023 - Drone Photo by Jack Rushton

 

9th September 2023 - Drone Photo by Jack Rushton

 

A view of the sites cronstruction progress. The shipwreck is in the centre. Drone photo by Jack Rushton 2nd September 2023

 

 1 October 2023 - Drone Photo by Jack Rushton

 

Inside the unpainted ship. Photo By Roselyn Fauth 

 

Map of the shipwreck history at Timaru. Designed by CPlay volunteer and graphic artist Roselyn Fauth.

 

 After the storm (Timaru Beach 1882, showing the wreck of the ships Benvenue and City of Perth, 1883). It is a romantic painting of the scene. In reality the sea was rough, but the it was a blue sky day. John Gibb 1883. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, bequest of Mr Thomas Peacock Esq, 1922

 

The Benvenue moored to a buoy 1880. The Benvenue was an iron full rigged ship of 999 tons. Built in 1867 by Messrs. Barclay, Curle and Company of Glasgow.  https://tiaki.natlib.govt.nz/#details=ecatalogue.195296

 

 Section from a photograph taken by the Burton Brothers circa 1882; of the "Ben Venue" stranded. In the distance you can see the Caroline Bay coastline before the sand started to accumulate.  Courtesy Te Papa (C.025205)

 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEF: The Rocket brigade badge from SC Museum Display; Timaru Ben Venue Stranded (Timaru, "Ben Venue" stranded, stern, circa 1882, Dunedin, by Burton Brothers studio. Te Papa (C.025205). Bravery Medal from SC Museum Display; Benvenue Cliffs where the ship lies below; Section of mural at Caroline Bay by J. Nilson depicting shipwreck; Looking up Benvenue Cliffs to the Blackett Lighthouse. Photography courtesy of Roselyn Fauth. Learn more here

 

This photograph shows the Ben Venue wreck in the distance wrecked on the basalt rock apron below the cliff c1880s. Curtosey of Te Papa; Timaru, 1880s, Timaru, by Burton Brothers studio. Purchased 1991. Te Papa (O.034179)

 

Looking across bay to the Alps, two sailing ships sketched in 1880 - A-180-018: [Lysaght, Mary Grace Caroline] 1850-1935 :From Timaru, of Mount Peel, Mount Somers & Mount Hutt [ca 1880] - Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand

 

 Ship Lyttelton off Timaru 1883. Oil on Canvas by Laurence Wilson. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Mrs A Scott, 1946

 

Engraving showing the Timaru Breakwater 1888. Picturesque atlas of Australasia"; The Picturesque Atlas Publishing Co.

 

View of the Port from the sky in 2014. Photograph by Geoff Cloake.

 

William Gibb (1859-1931) Timaru Harbour, 1888, Oil on canvas, Aigantighe Art Gallery Collection 2002.10 

William Gibb was born at Innellan, Scotland and immigrated to Christchurch in 1876. He received his art training from his father, John Gibb (1831-1909), and then studied at the National Gallery School in Melbourne from 1877 to 1879. He returned to Christchurch in 1882 and painted portraiture and landscapes. In Timaru Harbour, Gibb has painted a snapshot of the shipping industry and the newly built wharves. Previously, ships anchored offshore and used smaller boats to transport their cargo ashore. But by the late 1860s, it was decided that this was restricting Timaru’s growth. In the 1870s and 1880s large concrete southern and northern breakwaters were constructed to shelter the area that would become the harbour. In 1880 the first wharf was built, followed by a second wharf in 1886. Gibb has captured this scene of commerce with The Bruce (the central ship with a red and black funnel) and The Taniwha (the small dredge moving out of the port) and other sailing ships contrasted against the backdrop of a purple sky and the swelling of seemingly electric blue ocean.