The Norfolk was a brig built in Quebec in 1797 and originally registered in London under the name Harbinger. As a vessel, she measured approximately 1797 specifications, with her initial trade route listed as London to the Cape of Good Hope. Harbinger first appeared in Lloyd's Register in 1797, under the command of Master Chapman and owned by M. Hogan. In 1801, the vessel was purchased by the Colonial government of New South Wales and renamed Norfolk. During her service under this new name, she played a significant role in early Australian maritime history. Under Captain John Black, Norfolk became the second vessel to sail through Bass Strait en route to Port Jackson, arriving there on 12 January 1801. Her voyage included notable geographic discoveries: she reached the coast near Cape Otway, then veered southwest to the northwestern tip of Governor King's Island (now King Island), which Black named after the Governor of New South Wales, Philip Gidley King. She also sailed eastward past Wilsons Promontory, where Captain Black discovered and named the Hogan Group, after her owner Michael Hogan. Governor King purchased the vessel for £700, intending her for supply missions to Norfolk Island and returning with salt pork. She successfully performed this voyage, demonstrating her utility in regional supply and transport. Subsequently, she was commissioned as Australia's first war vessel on 1 November 1801, under Captain William House. Her new military role included a mission to Tahiti to bring back salt pork, reflecting her importance to the colony’s logistical needs. Tragically, Norfolk's service was short-lived. While visiting Matavai Bay in Tahiti in March 1802, she was caught in a hurricane. Captain House ran her aground to prevent her from being smashed on rocks. The crew escaped safely, and although her hull was salvaged, she sank during towing to another island. Her wreck marked the end of her notable but brief service, but her role as Australia’s first war vessel and her participation in early exploration and supply missions underscore her maritime significance.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.