Queensland Steam Shipping Company

[1] In 1881, the British India Steam Navigation Company was operating a regular mail steamer service from Brisbane to England via the Torres Strait and it wishes to provide coastal services to connect with the mail steamer.

[2][3] Initially the company offers a service from Brisbane to Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, Port Douglas and Cooktown.

[5] Later the company extended their services to Normanton, Burketown, Thursday Island and New Guinea.

On 30 May 1884, two of the company's ships, the Archer and Taldora collided in Moreton Bay.

[6] The Marine Board inquiry censured Captain Lowries of the Archer for making in error of judgement in navigation.