The largest wreck in Homebush Bay is the SS Ayrfield, a steam collier of 1,140 tons, built in 1911. Apparently she carried coal from Newcastle to Sydney.

Today she lies in shallow water with her bow pointing towards the shoreline, a mere 25 metres to the southwest. An impressive mangrove forest has taken root in the forward part of her hull.

Her superstructure and much of her hull were removed before the scrapping operation was abandoned. Just forward of the stern, her sides were cut down to the waterline. At high tide there was just enough water over them for me to paddle my kayak through the ship. I didn't make any attempt to board her. A ladder on a bulkhead was within reach, but it looked far too dubious to risk climbing.

The Ayrfield is highly photogenic, although the garish apartment buildings that have sprung up around the bay are a far from pleasing backdrop. The ruins of the former industrial area would have been far superior.