The 2005 ton twin screw steamer Wollongbar got into difficulties when alongside the jetty at Byron Bay on 14 May 1921. In the face of a rising gale, the 87 metre vessel attempted to move out into the bay but was driven ashore, lying broadside - a total wreck. Efforts to refloat the steamer failed and the owners, the North Coast Steam Navigation Company, sold the vessel at auction, stripped of most movable items. They soon ordered a replacement, Wollongbar II which was later lost off Crescent Head in 1943.
Well regarded as one of the fastest steamers operating the North Coast, the Wollongbar had accommodation for 235 First-class passengers, 40 Second-class passengers and room for extensive general cargo. At the time of loss she was loaded with butter, bacon and bananas. The Wollongbar was built at Troon, Scotland, in 1911. Today, the remains of the hull and boilers form a dramatic backdrop to Belongil Beach at Byron Bay.
