After nearly three years of meticulous restoration, the iconic MV SIGNA is finally ready to set sail again. The crew will embark on the vessel’s first voyage since the restoration, leaving Kiama on Wednesday, 22 January 2025, at 6 AM. 

The restoration of the MV SIGNA began when it was lifted out of Kiama Harbour on 17 July 2022. The vessel was re-launched into the water on 8 May 2024, though some work remained before it was truly seaworthy. 

Now, after nearly three years of dedicated effort, the boat is ready to return to the open seas, thanks to the hard work of the restoration crew.

The restored MV Signa

Led by Don, Rookie, Smokey, Rex, and John, the crew not only worked tirelessly to restore the SIGNA but will also sail it to Hobart, where it has been selected for a prime spot at Constitution Dock - a coveted location chosen from 400 applicants.

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival, held annually in Hobart, is one of the most celebrated events in the maritime community, and the SIGNA’s selection for Constitution Dock is a significant honour.

For the crew, the voyage represents the culmination of years of hard work and a deep personal connection to the vessel. It’s a proud moment, not only for them but for the entire Kiama community, which has supported the restoration effort from the very beginning.

In a post on Facebook, John Hansen’s wife Sandra thanked the Kiama community for all of their support. John told the Bugle, "We have had so many people in the community come down to have a look at the boat after seeing the articles in The Bugle Newspaper. It has been overwhelming!"

The crew had initially set a goal to raise $10,000 to fund the voyage but are still a bit short of their target. If you’d like to contribute, you can make a last-minute donation by calling The Bugle at 0412 415 101 during business hours (9 AM - 5 PM, Monday to Friday).

The Bugle would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the crew of the MV SIGNA. We wish them smooth sailing as they make their way to Tasmania and look forward to seeing the vessel shine at the festival and catch up with our reporter in Hobart, Steven White.

The Bugle will be publishing updates regularly online as they traverse the ocean.