Captain George John Ricketts

For more than 40 years, Captain George Ricketts was a familiar figure on the Manning River. Powerfully built, with a flowing grey beard and a commanding yet kindly manner, he became one of the district’s most respected mariners.

Born in Kent, England, in 1833, Ricketts went to sea as a young man, sailing to India and China before settling in Australia. By 1859 he had earned his Master Mariner’s Certificate and was trading along the New South Wales coast.¹ He moved to Taree in 1873 and managed shipping operations for John See and the North Coast Steam Navigation Company.²

Fearless and highly skilled, Ricketts safely guided many vessels into the Manning River, including the paddle steamer Manning, whose rusting hull remains a reminder of the river’s busy maritime past.³ He was often called upon when ships came to grief on Harrington’s dangerous bar, helping rescue crews and salvage vessels such as the Richmond, Rosedale, Fire King and Bortonius.⁴

His concern for others extended beyond the water. After a young girl disappeared during a Boxing Day excursion at Harrington, Ricketts returned with a steamer and volunteers to assist the search. Three days later the child emerged unharmed and simply asked for her “mumma”.⁵

Sir John See later honoured Ricketts with an elaborate gold watch and chain, a gift lost when his own steamer, Oceana, was wrecked crossing the bar in 1903.⁶

Ricketts retired in 1906 and died in 1909, aged 76, at his Wingham home, Walmer Court. He is buried in Woola Cemetery.⁷

Author: Janine Roberts

To read another aspect of Captain Rickett’s life try this story written for a younger audience…The Spirit of Captain Ricketts