Norman Wright 40 Motor Cruiser

CAMIRA -- Norman Wright 40

A true Queensland classic. An exceptional piece of Australian boating heritage.

Opportunities to acquire a vessel of CAMIRA's calibre do not come along often.

Built on the Brisbane River in 1956, CAMIRA is a one-of-a-kind Norman Wright 40, designed by Ron Wright and built by renowned Queensland boatbuilder Jack Clark. Constructed in traditional spotted gum and turpentine, she represents an era of Australian boatbuilding when craftsmanship, individuality and longevity were paramount.

More than seven decades later, CAMIRA remains an extraordinarily handsome and capable cruising vessel--and following a major rebuild by Norman Wright & Sons in 2009, she combines the character and craftsmanship of a genuine classic with the comfort, systems and reliability expected of a modern cruising boat.

The 2009 rebuild was extensive. Her hull was reinforced, stiffened and sheathed, while new windows and window frames, laid teak decks, beautifully varnished handrails and two new Oregon masts were installed. Her interior was also renewed, showcasing a particularly beautiful Queensland maple interior that gives CAMIRA the warm, unmistakable character that only a finely crafted timber vessel can provide.

Further work has continued to preserve and improve her. Previous documented work included significant attention to her propulsion system, while the vessel has been consistently maintained and cared for throughout her current ownership. Her annual slipping, servicing and maintenance were most recently undertaken by The Wooden Boat Shop and Coastline Marine in November 2025.

CAMIRA is every bit as practical as she is beautiful.

Her well-considered layout features an aft companionway, port and starboard wheelhouse doors and walk-around side decks, providing excellent access around the vessel and making life aboard both safer and more enjoyable. The accommodation comprises three cabins sleeping five, with a well-appointed interior designed for genuine extended cruising.

The galley is particularly well equipped, with a gas oven and cooktop, 12V/240V refrigerator and 240V freezer, while onboard amenities include a toilet and shower as well as a convenient deck shower.

For cruising and navigation, CAMIRA has been thoughtfully equipped with modern electronics, including:

SIMRAD Chartplotters
SIMRAD Autopilot
Marine radio
AIS
Bow thruster & Joy Stick Control
EPIRB
Television
Comprehens ive safety equipment
Power comes from a Perkins 135hp six-cylinder diesel, supported by a 6.5 kVA generator. With ample fuel and water capacity, CAMIRA offers an impressive 600-nautical-mile range, making her equally suited to leisurely weekends on the bay or longer coastal adventures.

She is accompanied by a dinghy, full covers, ground tackle and ropes, all presented in excellent condition.

And then there is the provenance.

CAMIRA is not simply an old timber boat. She is part of the story of Queensland's remarkable Moreton Bay cruising tradition. The celebrated Classic Moreton Bay Cruisers publication documents the history and craftsmanship of locally built wooden boats and has become a highly regarded reference for Australia's classic boating heritage.

CAMIRA's connection to that tradition is particularly fitting. Norman R. Wright & Sons remains one of Australia's most significant historic boatbuilding names, with a history stretching back more than a century and a remarkable legacy of Queensland-built timber vessels.

For those who appreciate traditional timber boatbuilding, CAMIRA offers something increasingly difficult to find: authentic heritage, exceptional craftsmanship, proven cruising capability and a level of restoration that allows her next custodian to enjoy the boat rather than undertake a project.

She has the lines.
She has the history.
She has the craftsmanship.
And, importantly, she has been cared for.

CAMIRA is a very special boat for a very discerning owner.

Presented in exceptional condition and ready for her next chapter, this is a rare opportunity to become the custodian of a genuine Queensland classic.