ss australis
Illustrations by Michael C Brady, 2020
‘THE AUSTRALIAN LADY’’
Australis was a legendary immigrant liner operated by Chandris Lines, regularly carrying Greek passengers to Australia. She was made Chandris’ flagship but had enjoyed a long and successful career beforehand. Originally launched as ‘SS America’ just prior to the outbreak of war in 1939, she had served reliably as a troopship. After the war she operated with United States Lines on the transatlantic run before being sold to Chandris for the immigrant trade. Beloved by her countless passengers, Australis earned a place in history as a sturdy and reliable giant of the Australasian run.
RHSM AUSTRALIS - CIRCA 1967
Launched in 1939 as ‘SS America’ for United States Lines, Australis was Chandris’ flagship and by far the largest ship in the fleet. When first introduced she was painted a dazzling white with blue funnels and the distinctive Chandris ‘X’.
RHSM AUSTRALIS - CIRCA 1975
Australis as she appeared after 1968, with a grey hull and removed mainmast. She served in this configuration - operating cruises and regular services between Greece and Australia - until her retirement with Chandris in 1978.
