For what it's worth records suggests Mermaids were produced from 1956 by Smithurst & Son Pty Ltd Caringbah NSW. As far as I know they were only ever fitted with 125cc Victa or 125cc Hurricane engines ex-factory.
Production ceased in the early to mid 60's. There were a couple of different cowl designs. Most featured a rope start pulley, others a recoil starter.
They come up for sale fairly often and are certainly worth adding to the collection if you're in to antique outboards.
I don't have one in my collection yet, but I'm sure it won't bee too long before I come across one in Melbourne.
Regards,
