title: PS Decoy
text: # PS Decoy
  
  PS Decoy is a privately owned paddle steamer, believed to be the only sea-going paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere. Built in 1986 in Fremantle, Decoy is a replica of the original paddle steamer that operated on the Swan River in the 1870s. She was used in the filming of the television mini-series Cloudstreet, which was based on Tim Winton's novel.
  
  ## History
  
  Decoy was built by Australian Ship Building Industries in Fremantle in 1986, a replica of the original paddle steamer that operated on the Swan River in the 1870s. Chas Cox purchased Decoy in 1990s and upgraded the vessel.
  
  ## Engines
  
  Decoy is powered by a 1905 Ransome Sims and Jefferies twin cylinder steam engine, which was salvaged and restored from Bunnings engineering workshops in Manjimup. The engine was totally rebuilt in 1986 with a new oil fired burner and maxitherm boiler fitted.
  
  ## Service
  
  As of 2011 Decoy is used mainly for weddings and corporate events, operating on the Swan River.
  
  