14. Government Harbour Moorings.
28. The whole of this scheme has been practically in force since April, 1916, and is proving an efficient system of berthing steamers in this Harbour. With the decreased staff at my disposal I find it a great convenience that vessels take up a clear and secure berth without an officer having to be detailed for this purpose which formerly was found necessary to prevent them from mooring in the Fairways and other prohibited areas.
The Harbour Moorings consist of 10 A Class, 14 B Class, and 21 C Class Buoys, making a total of 45 Buoys. The 10 A Class Buoys in use during the year averaged 2,099 days rent at $8 per day, the 14 B Class Buoys averaged 3,507 days rent at $6 per day, and the 21 C Class Buoys averaged 5,230 days rent at $4 per day, Private Buoys (Dock Co.'s) $840, making a total revenue of $59,594 against $61,156 in 1917.
A and B Class Buoys are allotted to vessels on application being made by their respective agents 48 hours in advance. C Class Buoys are taken up by vessels on arrival at positions to suit the nature of their trade. The demand by larger vessels at Wanchai necessitated an A Class mooring to be laid down during the year and is known as A 28.
A further demand is also anticipated and will have to be provided for.
During the year 20 moorings were lifted and relaid after necessary repairs had been effected. 26 buoys were scaled and painted and one new B Class buoy built by contract.
The total expenditure for upkeep of Government Moorings and Buoys for the year is $13,467.50.
HARBOUR DEPARTMENT,
5th March, 1919.
C. W. BECKWITH, Commander, R.N., Harbour Master, &c.