Images courtesy of the South Australia Police Historical Society
Built tough and built local, the MV Archie Badenoch spent more than three decades as the No. 1 Water Police Launch keeping watch over Adelaide’s waterways. The former SA Police workhorse is still cruising the Port River like it owns the place.
To mark the milestone, the South Australian Maritime Museum is hosting special half price heritage tours for one day only, Sunday 16 November, giving visitors the chance to step aboard a real piece of policing history.
The Archie was built in 1945 at the General Motors Holden plant in Birkenhead. It was originally constructed for the Royal Australian Navy. The war ended before it went into active service, and the vessel was soon purchased by SA Police.
One of South Australian Maritime Museum Curators Alice McClymont says the age of the vessel is the first thing that catches people’s attention.
“I think the fact that it is 80 years old, that it is such an old vessel with such a long history. So when people step on board, they’re really getting a historical experience just by being on the vessel.”
One of the earliest stories shared on board is the origin of its name. The boat honours Constable Archibald Badenoch, the first SA Police officer killed in action during WWII.
“One of the very first things that visitors learn on the tour is about the namesake, Constable Archibald Badenoch, why it was named after him and its role as the number one water launch for the SA Police,” Alice says.
Historic photographs help bring that chapter to life. Many are supplied in partnership with the SA Police Historical Society.
The tour also explores the Port River itself. The area holds deep cultural significance for Kaurna people and has seen waves of change since colonisation.
Alice says they highlight the big icons but also the lesser known tales.
“We also like to highlight some of the unknown stories, such as the loss of the City of Singapore vessel, or the dolphin sanctuary.”
The special birthday tours will run on Sunday 16 November for about 45 minutes.
“We’re offering half price tickets for the weekend, and that includes entry to the SA Maritime Museum as well,” Alice says.
There are five sailings across the day and spots are limited, so booking online is recommended.
After that, regular Archie tours return in January on select Sundays throughout the year.
MV Archie Badenoch – South Australian Maritime Museum
Where: Lipson Street, Port Adelaide
When: Sunday 16 November
For more information, click here.
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