December 13 1920 - A gale described as "cyclonic" was ravaging the south coast centered between Wollongong and Jervis Bay. Vessels caught at sea were having a very hard time and those that could looked for shelter, while others had no choice but to battle on. The weather was so severe all coastal shipping was suspended forcing vessels to stay in port.
The Patric Steam Ship Company steamer Timaru heading to Sydney with a cargo of Tasmanian timber found herself in the grip of the storm and was forced to seek shelter in Wreck Bay. She became disabled when one of her engine shafts was broken by the sheer strain of negotiating the seas. Her captain using the wireless signalled for immediate assistance.
December 14 - The weather quickly abated, the steamer Sea Lark was dispatched from Jervis Bay to the Timaru, upon arriving at the scene, Captain Johnson of the Timaru, informed the master of the Sea Lark that his services would not be required, provided the weather stays settled. The company decided to send the tug Bermagui to assist the Timaru just in case of further trouble.
December 14 - The steamer Bermagui arrived and took the Timaru in tow and proceeded to Sydney arriving in the harbour around midday. While she was connected by tow line to the Bermagui, the Timaru made the journey under her own steam. She remained in Sydney while repairs were carried out.
150ft 2in long, Timaru was an iron steamer of 459 tons gross, built in 1883 at Sunderland.
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