Sydney News: SS Surprise launched at Neutral Bay

31st March 1831

While Allan Cunningham sailed toward England, on this day, 31st March 1831, the first steamboat built and run in Australia, SS Surprise 1, was launched from Millard’s slipways in Neutral Bay (east of Hayes Street) in 1831. This ship was to be the first steam-driven vessel on Sydney Harbour but it was pipped by the arrival from England of the Sophia Jane in the same year, while its engines were still awaiting installation. 2


  1. Source: Wikipedia[]
  2. Source: Customs Marine Depot Conservation Management Plan and Archaeological Assessment Draft Report. December 2007 Australia[]