d13 undine
(European Folklore)
A mythical water spirit associated with the beauty and mystery of freshwater streams and lakes
Built in Hobart by Don Colbourn of Pirie Street, New Town, for P. and D. Hadlow, Undine was launched in 1948 and soon became part of the strong Derwent Class racing fleet. She competed extensively through the 1950s and 1960s, developing a formidable racing reputation.
After many years, Undine's fortunes changed. She was eventually abandoned at Oyster Cove Marina, where she faced an uncertain future before being rescued and donated to the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. What followed was a major restoration by the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, bringing the neglected yacht back to life.
The restoration involved restoring the inner hull, constructing new decks and deck beams, and rebuilding the cabin, forehatch and internal fit-out. Deadwood and ballast were also removed and refitted before Undine returned to the water in 2024.
Her return to sailing has been every bit as successful as hoped. D13 was back racing with the Derwent Class in 2025, finishing second in both the Derwent Class Worlds and the class regatta.
After more than 75 years, Undine is very much at home back on the racecourse amongst the Derwent Class fleet.
