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The sailing cutter ‘Storm King’ was crafted from huon pine by Tasmanian cabinet maker Ronald Beltz as his family yacht and launched in 1938 at Constitution Dock, Hobart.

Storm King’s owner at the time, Craig Marshall embarked on a major refit in 1995 she was exhibited at the 1996 Sydney Wooden Boat Festival. She won ‘Best in Class’ as well as ‘Best in Show’.

Her most recent owners, Brian and Felicity Sherratt bought Storm King in 2015 and embarked on a restoration programme with the intention to unveil her at the 2018 Sydney Wooden Boat Festival co-inciding with her 80th Anniversary.

As can be expected much has happened in those 80 years. Inspiration behind the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, sailed the East Coast, Sea Rescue service, estranged husband accommodation…..and survivor.

Now in her 85th year, Storm King has returned to the family with grandson Stuart Beltz purchasing her in 2023 and sailing the long passage home to Hobart Tasmania.

The History of Storm King

Launched in Hobart by owner builder Ronald Beltz in 1938. Later sailed to Sydney by new owner William Lieberman, one of Sydney Hobart Yacht race founders. It is said that the trip inspired the race.

Sailed the East Coast, live aboard refuge for estranged husband, Port Hacking rescue vessel, live aboard residence and numerous adventures one would expect in 80 years.

Renovations and restorations in 90’s and 2015 to 2018 have ensured she reached her 80th year.

The 2015 – 2018 Restoration Project

To prevent her demise mild steel, and rust effect removed and replaced with more suitable marine materials. All new sea-cocks and hull caulking replaced where necessary. Cockpit totally rebuilt. New varnish and paint. Mast and spars rebuilt, new bowsprit and new rigging. Decking caulking stripped and replaced.

The 90s Renovation Project

Major refit. Hull stripped back to bare timber. More authentic cabin fittings, previous 70’s Oregon replaced with Teak. Raised coach house and Teak laid decking. New diesel motor fitted.