The Catterthun sinking at Seal Rocks, NSW
The loss of the SS Catterthun off Seal Rocks, NSW, in August 1895 is a story that has captured many imaginations. Thousands of gold sovereigns, en route to China, went to the bottom, ensuring the wreck has remained a magnet for treasure-hunters. When I read contemporaneous press accounts of the disaster I'm struck by the terrible fate of so many of the passengers - especially the women and children - and can't help wondering whether some of the ship's officers and crew might have done more to help save more lives. "Don't panic": fatal advice The…