The story of Swarbrick Yachts, originally known as Swarbrick Bros Yachts, begins in Western Australia with a family deeply ingrained in the art of boat building. The Swarbrick family, under the management of Harley Swarbrick, started building yachts commercially around 1965. However, records also suggest the company's foundational year as 1963, indicating an earlier start to their commercial endeavors.
Initially, Swarbrick Bros Yachts operated from a modest workshop on Carrington Street in Claremont. From these humble beginnings, the family's dedication to craftsmanship and performance laid the groundwork for what would become one of Australia's most prolific yacht builders. Early on, family members like Terry Swarbrick were already building their first dinghies, contributing to a collective output of some 1,500 boats over time, including significant ocean-going yachts. The very first commercial models included the Carmen 31, which was first built in 1961, potentially even before the official commercial start date cited, showing the family's early engagement in yacht production.
History and Evolution
Swarbrick Bros Yachts quickly outgrew its initial premises, moving to larger facilities in Osborne Park in 1977 to accommodate its burgeoning production. Under Harley Swarbrick's astute management, the company flourished, becoming the largest builder of production yachts in Australia. This period marked a significant expansion in their manufacturing capabilities and cemented their reputation within the Australian marine landscape.
However, the journey of Swarbrick Bros Yachts as an independent entity concluded when the business was sold to the Bains Harding Group in 1981. This corporate change ultimately led to the closure of the original boat-building operation in 1984. Despite this cessation, the Swarbrick name would not vanish from the maritime scene. Members of the Swarbrick family, such as John Swarbrick, continued the tradition, building boats under the "Swarbrick Yachts" name and ensuring the family's expertise in composite yacht construction endured.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Swarbrick yachts earned a stellar reputation in the sailing world for their seaworthiness and strong performance. They were known for producing Australian-designed and built vessels that consistently delivered on the water. A key aspect of their evolution was the early adoption and skilled use of fiberglass (GRP) as a primary construction material, which contributed to the durability and longevity of their yachts.
While many of their designs were internally developed or by Australian designers, Swarbrick Bros Yachts also notably collaborated with renowned naval architects. A prime example is their construction of the iconic Sparkman & Stephens (S&S) 34, a design highly regarded globally for its offshore capabilities. One such S&S 34, named "Morning Star," was even built by Swarbrick Bros for their own use, underscoring their confidence in the design and their building prowess.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its operational years, Swarbrick & Swarbrick produced several highly significant and successful boat models that left a lasting mark on the Australian yachting scene. Beyond the early Carmen 31, the company's portfolio expanded to include a range of popular vessels.
The S&S 34 stands out as a particularly iconic model, embodying the builder's commitment to robust offshore performance. Another notable range was the Swarbrick S111, a versatile yacht that proved its mettle in various roles. Notably, five S111s were commissioned by the Royal Australian Navy for use as offshore sail training yachts, a testament to their reliability and handling characteristics.
The Swarbrick 38 gained a loyal following and was particularly popular as a charter boat, showcasing its practical design and robust GRP construction. The Spacesailer 27, a fiberglass model, also contributed to their diverse offerings, catering to a broad spectrum of sailors. The company's impressive overall output, with the Swarbrick family contributing to the building of approximately 1,500 boats, highlights their significant contribution to the Australian marine industry and their status as the largest builder of production yachts in the country for a period.
The Builder Today
While the original Swarbrick Bros Yachts operation ceased in 1984, the Swarbrick name continues to be a prominent fixture in the marine industry. Today, "Swarbrick & Swarbrick Yachts" operates as an international producer of composite yachts, maintaining the family's legacy and expertise. With an address in Henderson, Western Australia, this current entity carries forward the commitment to quality and performance that defined the original company.
Modern Swarbrick yachts continue to appeal to discerning sailors who value well-built, capable vessels. The enduring designs and the reputation for seaworthiness cultivated by the original Swarbrick Bros Yachts continue to influence the perception of boats bearing the Swarbrick name, fostering a strong owner community that appreciates the heritage and performance of these Australian-built yachts.
