Built at Evans Deakin in Brisbane, this vessel was one of the "A" class built to Plan No. RH 1/2. It was ordered 22/01/1943, keel laid 22/06/1943, launched 12/05/1945 and completed /06/1946.
All accomodation was amidships.
The deck machinery consisted of 12 - 5 ton derricks and 1 - 20 ton heavy derrick. Also 13 - 8x12 inch steam winches, including warping winch.
The propulsion machinery - built at the Commonwealth Government Marine Engine Works, Brisbane - was the triple expansion steam type with an exhaust turbine fitted. Steam was suplied by 2 B&W water tube boilers. Giving an average service speed of 12 knots.
James Patrick & Co. Pty. Ltd. were appointed to operate the "River Norman" until Oct 1947 when management was transferred to the Australian Shipping Board. In Mar 1957 management was transferred to the Australian National Line.
During Sep 1959 the vessel was sold to Albert G Sims Ltd., Australia, registered in Hong Kong and transferred to Hang Fung Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd., Hong Kong.
The "River Norman" was transferred to Wallem & Co.Ltd., Hong Kong during Nov 1959 and then renamed "TUNG FENG" in Dec 1959.
The vessel was again sold in Jun 1960 to Hand Fung Shipping & Trading Co.Ltd., Hong Kong.
In Sep 1962 the vessel was driven ashore on Green Island, Hong Kong by Typhoon "Wanda". The vessel was refloated in Oct 1962 but declared a total loss.
The vessel was once again sold in Nov 1962 to Sigma Shipping Co.Ltd. for demolition. Work began in Dec 1962.