THE original was first launched in about 1765, before sailing into Australian and world history a few years later under the stewardship of Captain James Cook.
This weekend, a hand-built replica wooden model of HMS Endeavour will be on display for the first time at Werribee’s annual art show.
Created from scratch by local resident John Best, the ship will be one of more than 300 exhibits at the show, which is now into its 38th year.
It took Mr Best about 14 months to hand craft it from wood and terracotta.
Now 73, the Werribee resident has completed about six boats, including the Bounty, the Revenge and the Mayflower, but painting remains his true passion.
“I have an interest in history. It was a bit of a challenge to make something from nothing,” he said.
“It’s not exactly to scale but I didn’t do it for that. I did it for cosmetic looks.”
He has never before displayed his ship at an art show and has placed a price tag of $850 on it.
“It’s not a lot of money for 12 months work,” he joked.
“I didn’t make it to sell. It’s a bit late in life to be doing that.”
As well as ship building, Mr Best has a penchant for Egyptian art and will have four paintings and six sculptures on display at the show.
“It’s no good for a painting to be in a wardrobe or storage,” he said. “What’s the point?”
Each year approximately 300 paintings are displayed at the show featuring more than 100 artists.
Prize money in excess of $2,500 is available in six categories.
Profits from the show are distributed each year to a different local organisation, including aged care facilities, local schools and fire brigades.
This year, profits from the show will go toward support programs for people whose lives are impacted by family members or friends with mental illness.
This year’s Art Show will be held this weekend at the Wyndham Cultural Centre in Watton St, Werribee.
Antique appraisals will be offered on Sunday from 10am to noon.
The Werribee Chapters of Beta Sigma Phi and the Rotary Club of Werribee are hosting the show.
