Bales of wool. Fleece. Trading in wool has declined in Newcastle, I suspect, and has moved elsewhere, after all, we can't have it all or can we? So wool transport is rarely seen now.
Another rarity: The photo has depth of field.
Below: The Happy Buccaneer appeared unchanged Thursday afternoon. The building of the groundwork on the wharf goes ahead ready to receive the cargo, I believe. The ship's cranes were busy moving in tandem but in opposite directions so as to maintain the critical balance, I suspect.