Project Objective: To positively identify and report on the SS Glenelg.

Ship History: The SS Glenelg was a twin screw steamer of 210 tons, 131ft in length, 21ft in breadth and 11.3ft in depth. Built in Glasgow, Scotland by Aitken & Mansel in 1875.

The Glenelg left Bainrnsdale late on 25th March 1900 for Melbourne. The sea was rough and once through the entrance proceeded to get rougher by the hour. Approximately 40 miles west of Lakes Entrance, the Glenelg began rapidly taking on an enormous amount of water. Efforts by the crew to bail out the water were unsuccessful, and within ten minutes the Captain ordered for the crew and passengers to abandon ship.

Due to the extreme conditions, the first life boat was launched with only three crew members. They tried desperately to get back to the ship to pick up the passengers and remaining crew. The second lifeboat was then launched with the remaining 31 people on board. This second lifeboat was later found washed ashore near Lakes Entrance - all passengers had perished. The original lifeboat with the three crew members was at sea for two days before being washed ashore at Marlo. They were the only survivors.

Project Status: On June 28th 2009, Southern Ocean Exploration located and dived the SS Glenelg. She lies upright on her keel approximately 5km offshore and is in excellent condition. The boiler and part of the funnel are intact, and some of the bridge superstructure can be recognised. The wreck is covered in concretions and marine life and is strewn with artefacts - bottles, plates and portholes. Some initial photographs can be found in the SS Glenelg Photo Gallery.

Further Information Required: Any information on the SS Glenelg, it's wrecking, any information on the crew and officers, ships' drawings and photographs.