Built at Carrington Slipways, Newcastle, N.S.W. in 1976, the April Hamer was originally intended for use around the Victorian coastline. It worked in Lakes Entrance for three months during 1976 and then moved on to Port Phillip Bay. The April Hamer has been permanently stationed at Lakes Entrance as a result of the dramatic improvement to the entrance and shipping channel. The April Hamer has been stationed at Bullock Island, Lakes Entrance since 1977.