Classic Trawler 34 ft Cruiser Diesel
1956 Alf Settree Trawler - "Midnight Rambler" - Ready for Enthusiast's Refit!
A rare piece of Australian maritime history awaits its next chapter! For sale is the classic 34-foot trawler, "Midnight Rambler, " a robust and character-filled vessel built by the renowned Alf Settree in Huskisson, NSW, and launched in 1956 for commercial fishing. Since 2012, she has been a private vessel, and a rear cabin has been fitted, offering a comfortable layout for cruising or liveaboard potential.
This is the perfect project for a passionate enthusiast looking to restore and update a sturdy classic. The boat is currently moored and NSW registration is paid until September 11,2026, making for an easy transfer at Service NSW.
Key Features & Specifications
Hull & Deck
Builder: Alf Settree, Huskisson, NSW
Year Built/Launched: 1956
Hull Material: Spotted Gum
Deck: Plywood sheathed
Engine & Mechanical (Needs Attention)
Engine: Fordson 52 hp diesel
Condition Note: Engine is not currently running. The starter motor has been removed (but is operable and included), and the fuel is disconnected. This is the main item requiring immediate attention for cruising.
Cruising Speed: Approximately 6 knots (previously)
Top Speed: Approximately 7.5 knots (previously)
Fuel Storage: 400L stainless steel ($ ext{S/S}$) tanks
Stern Thruster
Accommodation & Amenities
Rear Cabin: Fitted since becoming a private vessel.
Galley: Long galley with a timber top, sink, and two fridges.
Heating: Cozy wood fire heater in the cabin.
Saloon: Seating area which can be configured for a table or an additional berth.
Sleeping: Twin bunks in the bow vessel.
Head: Enclosed area with toilet and shower (water system needs connecting).
Water Tanks: Fresh water holding tanks.
Electrical & Navigation
Inverter: Powerful 6000W inverter.
Batteries: Two new batteries.
Electronics: Radar, GPS, Sounder, Autohelm (autopilot).
Radio: Fusion radio.
Safety/Transponder: Trek Transponder.
Solar Power: Two solar panels (controllers and other components included).
Roof Work: Recent roof work completed, including fibreglassing. The wiring connecting the radar and navigation lights are currently disconnected but is noted as an easy job to reconnect.
Deck Gear & Extras
Anchor: Anchor and winch with good chain.
Boarding Platform: Large boarding platform currently on a winch system, but a crossmember timber needs replacing for full function.
Project Scope / Why Buy "Midnight Rambler"?
"Midnight Rambler" is a classic vessel with solid bones and great potential. The Alf Settree build quality is legendary on the NSW South Coast. She has been partially refitted for private use, with valuable components like the new batteries, a powerful inverter, wood fire, and comprehensive electronics already installed.
The main work required is getting the Fordson engine running (including re-connecting fuel and replacing/refitting the starter motor), reconnecting the water system, and a simple re-wiring of radar and nav lights.
If you're looking for a rewarding restoration project with a beautiful, historic outcome, this is your chance.
Registration: NSW Registered until 11/09/2026.
Don't miss out on owning a piece of local boating heritage! Place your bid and bring this classic trawler back to life!
A rare piece of Australian maritime history awaits its next chapter! For sale is the classic 34-foot trawler, "Midnight Rambler, " a robust and character-filled vessel built by the renowned Alf Settree in Huskisson, NSW, and launched in 1956 for commercial fishing. Since 2012, she has been a private vessel, and a rear cabin has been fitted, offering a comfortable layout for cruising or liveaboard potential.
This is the perfect project for a passionate enthusiast looking to restore and update a sturdy classic. The boat is currently moored and NSW registration is paid until September 11,2026, making for an easy transfer at Service NSW.
Key Features & Specifications
Hull & Deck
Builder: Alf Settree, Huskisson, NSW
Year Built/Launched: 1956
Hull Material: Spotted Gum
Deck: Plywood sheathed
Engine & Mechanical (Needs Attention)
Engine: Fordson 52 hp diesel
Condition Note: Engine is not currently running. The starter motor has been removed (but is operable and included), and the fuel is disconnected. This is the main item requiring immediate attention for cruising.
Cruising Speed: Approximately 6 knots (previously)
Top Speed: Approximately 7.5 knots (previously)
Fuel Storage: 400L stainless steel ($ ext{S/S}$) tanks
Stern Thruster
Accommodation & Amenities
Rear Cabin: Fitted since becoming a private vessel.
Galley: Long galley with a timber top, sink, and two fridges.
Heating: Cozy wood fire heater in the cabin.
Saloon: Seating area which can be configured for a table or an additional berth.
Sleeping: Twin bunks in the bow vessel.
Head: Enclosed area with toilet and shower (water system needs connecting).
Water Tanks: Fresh water holding tanks.
Electrical & Navigation
Inverter: Powerful 6000W inverter.
Batteries: Two new batteries.
Electronics: Radar, GPS, Sounder, Autohelm (autopilot).
Radio: Fusion radio.
Safety/Transponder: Trek Transponder.
Solar Power: Two solar panels (controllers and other components included).
Roof Work: Recent roof work completed, including fibreglassing. The wiring connecting the radar and navigation lights are currently disconnected but is noted as an easy job to reconnect.
Deck Gear & Extras
Anchor: Anchor and winch with good chain.
Boarding Platform: Large boarding platform currently on a winch system, but a crossmember timber needs replacing for full function.
Project Scope / Why Buy "Midnight Rambler"?
"Midnight Rambler" is a classic vessel with solid bones and great potential. The Alf Settree build quality is legendary on the NSW South Coast. She has been partially refitted for private use, with valuable components like the new batteries, a powerful inverter, wood fire, and comprehensive electronics already installed.
The main work required is getting the Fordson engine running (including re-connecting fuel and replacing/refitting the starter motor), reconnecting the water system, and a simple re-wiring of radar and nav lights.
If you're looking for a rewarding restoration project with a beautiful, historic outcome, this is your chance.
Registration: NSW Registered until 11/09/2026.
Don't miss out on owning a piece of local boating heritage! Place your bid and bring this classic trawler back to life!
Region
New South Wales
Location
Sydney Area Church Point
Usage
Family, Cruising, Live Aboard
Launch Year
1956
Hull
Timber
Length
34' - 10.36m
ABOUT THE SELLER
Brad Richards
wolloomoolloo
NSW 2011 Australia
NSW 2011 Australia