Records comprising 91 volumes of photographs of ships, organised under type of ship, or ownership, and with basic caption information. The volumes were compiled by shipping enthusiast Arthur Edwardes, using original prints if available, but most commonly copy prints.

In 1871 a severe drought ended, and the construction of the Overland Telegraph Line began: both of these events affected the port's fortunes positively. Wheat growing in the region to the north and east of Port Augusta also increased. The port's shipping movements peaked with more overseas vessels visiting. Some, which delivered rails for the railway construction work, were able to leave with a full load of wool or wheat. It was not unusual however for vessels to arrive in ballast to collect a cargo, or vice versa.

The northern railway following its completion began to have its effect on Port Augusta as it by passed it, going through Quorn instead. The great Federation drought of the 1890s caused difficulties for the frontier port - goods and supplies came in for the local people but there was little in the way of exports.

By the early 20^th century, ships bringing coal for the railway or timber for sleepers and embankments predominated. Provision ships continued to come on a near weekly basis, but eventually these would be replaced by road traffic. The introduction of diesel locomotives by the Commonwealth Railway was the final blow for Port Augusta's shipping fortunes. The wool clip was also carried by road or rail transport, as were the town's supplies. In 1958 the regular supply ship was cancelled. In the early 1960s there was a brief flurry of activity with copper and salt exports, and railway requirements.

Port Augusta (S. Aust)

Guy Mannering (ship)

SS Port Pirie (ship)

Moel Tryvan (ship)

Genevie M Tucker (ship)

Cathcart (ship)

Oriana (ship)

Anderson, R.J. Solid town: a history of Port Augusta. [Port Augusta, S. Aust.]: R.J. Anderson, 1988

Collins, Neville The jetties of South Australia: past and present. Woodside, Neville Collins, 2005