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Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Drawing - Artist sketch, Gerry Cummins & Jill Stehn Pty. Ltd, 1980
... the 1st convoy out of the Singapore after the Japanese invasion... the 1st convoy out of the Singapore after the Japanese invasion ...The window in this photograph was commissioned by the Sandringham Yacht Club in conjunction with a Masonic Lodge and work carried out by Gerry Cummins in 1980. In the background is the S.S. 'Kanimbla' built 1935, Belfast for McIlwraith McEacham and was the last large passenger ship built specifically for Australian owners. Designed to carry 400 passengers , she plied her trade around the Southern and Eastern Ports of Australia. In WW2 she was an armed merchant cruiser and served in Indian waters and escorted the 1st convoy out of the Singapore after the Japanese invasion. She later operated in the Pacific after the war and after repatriation duties she was decommissioned and subsequently sold to be renamed 'Oriental Queen' which eventually caught fire and sank. . The small yacht in the foreground refers to the Sandringham YC. Window measurements: 600mm x 900mmShows the link with Freemasonry.Sketch in pencil and ink on cream paper for an arched stained glass window depicting a yacht.Bottom left corner: Proposed Stained Glass Window, Mission to Seamen. (Scale: Full Size) Right Left corner: Gerry Cummingsfreemasons, st peter chapel, flinders street, mission to seafarers, gerry cummins, jill stehn, stained glass window, sandringham yacht club, hearts of oak lodge, yacht, symbols, square, compass, ss kanimbla -
Bendigo Military Museum
Currency - CURRENCY - JAPANESE OCCUPATION FORCES BCOF
... After invasion Japanese Occupational Forces issued...After invasion Japanese Occupational Forces issued ...After invasion Japanese Occupational Forces issued their own currency to control the economics, subjugated countries and to reduce Western Influence. Items in Collection of "Richard William McGILVERY, "RAAF. Refer Cat No. 7287P for his service details, photos and awards.13 No. Half Gulden notes. White paper notes with blue picture of trees. On front - 1/2 on each corner and half Gulden written on front. On back "1/2 Gulden 1/2 " written across on blue stylized symbols.Inscribed "De Japansche Regeering - Betaalt Ann Toondel." All notes stamped with SL Twild on one side.occupation currency, bcof, dutch indies -
Bendigo Historical Society Inc.
Document - LONG GULLY HISTORY GROUP COLLECTION: STATE SCHOOL NO 323 - RAE'S HILL
... there was a threat of possible Japanese invasion during 1939 - 1945. By 1911... there was a threat of possible Japanese invasion during 1939 - 1945. By 1911 ...Article titled State School No. 323 - Rae's Hill printed on paper and mounted on orange paper with a card backing and laminated. The school first started as a small building on Mt. Korong Rd and was later transferred to a new site on Ironbark Hill. It was known as Rae's School. When the State System was introduced under the Act of 1872 the school was purchased by the Education Department and Mr. Rae was retained as Head. Later it became part of Violet St. It ceased as a separate school in 1928. The old Rae's Hill School remained empty until it was used as a storage depot for goods of an essential nature when there was a threat of possible Japanese invasion during 1939 - 1945. By 1911 the Department paid £1 per week rent to the trustees of the Hopetoun Bandroom on Mr Korong Rd so renovations could be carried out. Classes were taught under the control of Mr. J C Kilfeder. For the younger pupils an arrangement was made with the Trustees of the Rechabite Hall at the rear of the Temperance Hall in View St. The rental here was £1.10.0 per week. At the top of the article is a sketch of Rae's School and near the bottom is a photo of The Hopetoun Bandroom.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - state school no 323 - rae's hill & the hopetoun bandroom, bunny rae, education epartment, the ironbark school, bendigo high school, the junior technical school, the girls' school, gravel hill school, mr j c kilfeder, rechabite hall -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Medal, Defence Medal, abt 1945
... prior to the Japanese invasion on 8 December 1941. The Medal... prior to the Japanese invasion on 8 December 1941. The Medal ...The Defence Medal was instituted to provide recognition for specified periods of service in non-operational areas subjected to air attack or closely threatened. Eligibility The Defence Medal is awarded for six months service in a prescribed non-operational area subject to enemy air attack or closely threatened, in Australia and overseas, or for 12 months service in non-prescribed non-operational areas. Within Australia the area is the Northern Territory , north of 14 degrees 30 minutes south, and the Torres Strait Islands between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945. Overseas service includes the Middle East, east of the Suez Canal (less the period of the Syrian Campaign) or Malaya prior to the Japanese invasion on 8 December 1941. The Medal The Defence Medal is cupro-nickel, with the uncrowned effigy of King George VI on the obverse. The reverse has a conventional oak tree centrally, with a crown above, with two lions counter rampart as supporters between the dates 1939 and 1945. The base of the medal reverse has the words ‘THE DEFENCE MEDAL'. The Ribbon The Defence Medal ribbon is orange with green outer stripes, each green stripe having a black pin-stripe running down the centre. The green represents the Islands of the United Kingdom, the orange represents enemy attacks, and the black represents the black outs.Full size and miniature medals with ribbonsnildefence medal -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Typewriter Case Olivetti, Circa 1950
... . The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower.... The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower ...This typewriter case allowed the Olivetti typewriter to be securely and free from contaminants to be totally mobile. The Olivetti typewriter company was founded in Italy in 1908 and became a leader in portable dependable typewriters.This particular typewriter contained is a Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke and portable manufactured after 1950. During the 1950s and 1960s was a time when British and European manufactured goods were still purchased by many Australian consumers. After the 1970s however, there was a shift, mainly in the cities, to Japanese made goods. The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower, especially in rural areas. The demand for long lasting and dependable merchandise was in the rural area still the most important criteria. The ease of setting up this typewriter and its compact mobility was its major benefit to trades people and travelling professionals, e.g. rural doctors, other medical professionals, accountants, lawyers and educators. This item(carrying case) facilitated the growing numbers of professional nomads requiring a relatively light office stationery package e.g. travelling novelist, writer, businessman and academics. This typewriter needed no electrical or battery power to operate it therefore the inside compartment did not require additional storage pockets . Outback Australia, where at this point in time, good available electrical power reticulation and battery power, was a scarce and therefore could not be totally measured as a highly efficient office environment. The protective carrying bag provided the only mobile way to operate in some business and home locations.Although this typewriter cover and its typewriter was purchased from a business in Penrith, Sydney, N.S.W., it is significant that it travelled easily to the Kiewa Valley, demonstrating the mobility of certain sections of the community. This typewriter cover protected the expensive typewriter it contained which was designed by an Italian industrial designer, Marcello Nizzoli, in line with the art deco style of the 1930s and the colour and flexibility of the vibrant 1950s. The underlying theme of manufacturing in the 1950s was to produce equipment that was more efficient than what was inherited from the earlier period of 20th century. Improvements were made to this Olivetti typewriter by Giuseppe Beccio by reducing the number of parts made from 3,000 to 2,000. Protection of such a typewriter was of an utmost necessity. The need for mobile expensive typewriters waned as less expensive typewriters became available. This was the major principle of the Japanese manufacturing juggernauts of the post World War II. Efficiency and low cost material was becoming prime factors in the success of rural industries from the 1960s. Competition from overseas producers was starting to affect rural industries and the removal of the large range of tariff protection, especially rural products, required not only a shift of farm management but a more efficient cost savings modus operandi.This is a semi hard cover (cloth over cardboard on inside, plastic over cardboard on outside), camel coloured outside and tartan cloth covered pattern inside the typewriter case. the case can be opened up by "unzipping" the top from the bottom halves of the case. For carrying purposes the case has two plastic covering metal handles with brass fittings. There are two stitched on brown reinforcement straps encompassing both sides of the case. The two reinforcing straps are brown in colour and a securing strap with a press button at one end to allow an extra securing tongue to keep the cover secure. The top inside of the case has a three quarters long paper compartment (flap style). See KVHS 0455 for Olivetti Lettera typewriter.commercial, protective carry bags/cases for mobile office equipment, mechanical typewriter -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Typewriter Mechanical Portable, 1950s
... , mainly in the cities, to European made goods. The invasion... goods. The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods ...The Olivetti company was founded in Italy in 1908.This particular typewriter is a Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke and portable manufactured after 1950. The 1950s and 1960s was a time when British manufactured goods were still purchased by many Australian consumers. The later 1960s onwards, there was a shift, mainly in the cities, to European made goods. The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower, especially in rural areas. The demand for long lasted and dependable merchandise was in the rural area still the most important criteria. The ease of setting up this typewriter and its compact mobility was its major benefit to trades people and travelling professionals, e.g. rural doctors, other medical professionals, accountants, lawyers and educators. This item facilitated the growing numbers of professional nomads requiring a relatively light office stationery package e.g. travelling novelist, writer, businessman and academics. This typewriter needed no electrical or battery power to operate it. Outback Australia, where at this point in time, was still relatively isolated from a good available electrical power reticulation and battery power, and therefore could not be totally measured as a highly efficient office environment.Although this typewriter was purchased from a business in Penrith, Sydney, N.S.W., it is significant that it travelled easily to the Kiewa Valley, demonstrating the mobility of certain sections of the community. This typewriter was designed by an Italian industrial designer, Marcello Nizzoli, in line with the art deco style of the 1930s and the colour and flexibility of the vibrant 1950s. The underlying theme of manufacturing in the 1950s was to produce equipment that was more efficient than what was inherited from the earlier period of 20th century. Improvements were made to this Olivetti typewriter by Giuseppe Beccio by reducing the number of parts made from 3,000 to 2,000. This reduction of parts and therefore cost of production was the major principle of the Japanese manufacturing juggernauts of the post World War II era. Efficiency and low costs material was becoming prime factors in the success of rural industries from the 1960s. Competition from overseas producers was starting to affect rural industries and the removal of the large range of tariff protection, especially rural products, required not only a shift of farm management but a more efficient cost savings modus operandi. This Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke portable (weighs 4kg) mechanical typewriter has a coral coloured plastic casing. The keys are made of black hardened plastic with white lettering, numbers and symbols (imperial fractions, and pound). It has a QWERTY keyboard as opposed to the Italian QZERTY. It has a lever to move the ribbon between black, neutral (for mimeograph stencils)and red colours (a red key is provided for highlighting specific words,letters or symbols) . This machine is fitted with only a black ribbon. It has a black rubber paper rollers and chromed metal parts on the carriage way. It has four rubber feet underneath the main body. On the left side of the roller there is a lever to adjust the roller from fixed (when mobile) through 1,2 and 3 line space gradients. This model has a key for zero but not one for the number one (uppercase letter l is used) see KVHS 0459 for the carrying bag.On the cover over the ribbon wheels letter strikers has a plate marked "Lettera 22" and the back plate behind the paper roller and in front of the paper supports has a silver metal label marked "olivetti made in great britain".commercial, mobile office equipment, mechanical typewriter -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Book, The War 1939-1945 Edited by Desmond Flower and James Reeves Dedicated to the 30,000,000 dead, First Published 1960
A documentary conspectus of the worst war in history beginning at the German invasion of Poland 1939 and ending with the last Japanese surrenders in September - October 1945. This book is an attempt to put together a chronicle of how it actually felt to be alive, to see, to hear, to smell, to feel the war first hand.The War 1939-1945 - Printed 1960 Dark blue cover with ware and tear around the edges MapsDate stamps from HMAS Albatross library wwii, phony war, winter war, norway -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Book, HMAS Mk IV - The RAN's Fourth Book, 1945
This is the last of the series of books chronicling the achievements of the ships and personnel of the Royal Australian Navy in WWII. For the whole of the war the Navy was on the job all over the place all of the time. From the first to the last days of WWII RAN was represented, by ships and personnel in the battle for supremacy in t he battle for supremacy at sea. They took part in every rear-guard action in the days when the tide was against. They participated in the invasions of enemy territory that came with the resurgence of Allied strength right through to the final assaults on the Japanese home islands The last book of the series of which HMAS MK IV, servIng personnel of the RAN have recorded the achievements of their service in WWII HMAS Mk IV - The RAN's Fourth Book. Green front, back and spine hardcover.. Inside front and back cover is a green sepia aerials view illustration of Japanese islands with boats and aeroplane. Illustrations, poems, stories, photographs, prints, cartoons.Dedicated to all those past and present, who 'Fear God, Honour the Kingwwii, royal australian navy, triumph of sea power, amphibian, flying seaman, invasion of borneo, whaler's crew, converted ocean liners, wrans go to sea, balikpapan, frigates, new guinea, indonesia, south east oceania, bougainville, surrender of dutch borneo, world war 2 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Book - World War II Vol 1-8 Orbis
Magazines describing the build up to World War 2. The invasion of countries by Germany to American and japan's involvement. There are 8 volumes with an index compiled by F. D. BuckPictorial .History of Word War 2 in Magazine format containing 3360 pages 0415Eight Red Plastic Folders Containing paper Magazines World War II Vol 1-8 orbis -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Plate - Gilt, 1870 -1920
... World War II, the invasion of American and Japanese merchandise... World War II, the invasion of American and Japanese merchandise ...This gilt plate is from an era where master crockery manufacturers where either located in Britain or Europe.The cost of transportation and the time taken to receive items limited the availability of first class goods. This was an era that was "British is best" in all manufactured goods. With the slow influx of European immigrants European manufactured goods also became of high value. This social requirement was more of a prerequisite for the more affluent rural population, especially at a time when Australia "rode on the sheep's back". Fine British and European goods were a "status symbol", even in rural Australia. After World War II, the invasion of American and Japanese merchandise opened up the market place for cheaper "throw away" items. Longevity and quality of goods fell away as the "throw away" society rolled on.This item demonstrates the time when the rural sector was at its most affluent and influential in dictating the strong ties between Australia, Britain and Europe. The very influential "Country Party" ensured that the protection of the rural sector was well entrenched. The ability of the "well off" rural sector, in this period, were not only able to travel abroad but also to purchase expensive items "overseas" cutlery and crockery. The significance of this item is that it highlights a period in time when the "rural" affluence was at its peak.This hand painted floral gilt plate is a cream fluted china plate decorated with pink and yellow orchid flower arrangement. It is in the "Art Nouveau" period 1880-1920.underneath and within the circular base and in gold freehand script "4" underneath "1562". Pressed into the base is the manufacturer's monogram.Circled around the FAM mark is "* FRANZ ANT. MEHLEM*BONN A/RHEIN*"hand painted china, floral gilt plate, decorative china -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Non Fiction History, Honour Roll - South Africa 1899 - 1902 Albury-Wodonga and District Residents Who Served In The Boer War, reprinted 03/2008
... not help Australia to defend itself against possible invasion ...Historical information of soldiers from the Albury-Wodonga district who fought in the Boer War in South Africa 1899 - 1902. In 1996 the then curator for the 8/13 VMR Museum, the Hon Colonel John Neale, commissioned the author to research a group of returned servicemen and women from the Boer War and had lived within 100 km radius of the Albury/Wodonga townships.The Boer War was the second war in South Africa and was the result of heavy taxes and non voting rights of the local white Boer population. Colonial forces including the Australian Light Horse contingent where called upon by England to overthrow the rebellion. This War was the first engagement of Australian troops fighting on foreign soil.This Honour Roll details the pay rates, the battle highlights, weapons used and maps covering the first Australian contingent of soldiers who fought in the Transvaal (Boer War).. Listed are the names of those soldiers who lived within 100klms of Albury and Wodonga.The soldiers are listed by Location, Rank, Initial,Name and Unit. The significance of both the War and those who served in it is two fold. Firstly it demonstrates that the tie between the Colonial outreaches of England's Empire to "the Motherland" were extremely strong at this point in time. This union remained strong up until the middle of World War II when England could not help Australia to defend itself against possible invasion by Japan. The alliance between Australia and the United States of America replaced the British/Australian pact. Secondly the attitude of, and the high degree of horsemanship of those from the Albury and Wodonga area. The degree of adaptability, by these servicemen, to suit the environment in which they fought provided the first real insight into the Australian psyche "of those living and surviving on the harsh Australian outback"This book has a bright red soft cover and is bound with bright yellow tape. There is a drawing of two Australian soldiers on the front, one on horsebackAuthor's complimentary inscription "To Mount Beauty Museum with compliments" signed Ian R Docking history, boer war, ex-servicemen and women, albury and wodonga -
Red Cliffs Military Museum
Letter
Letter written from (unknown) POW imprisioned by the Japanese on Morotai Island from 1942 - 1945 to (unknown) friend. Descriptive of life and treatment in POW camp. The island was captured by the Japanese in early 1942. Morotai's southern plain was taken by American forces in September 1944 during the Battle of Morotai, and used as a staging point for the Allied invasion of the Philippines in early 1945, and of Borneo in May and June of that year. Japanese soldier Teruo Nakamura was discovered in the Morotai jungle in 1974, as one of the WWII Japanese soldiers who held out subsequent to the Japanese military's surrender.Photocopy of letter, 4 pages, originally written in ink on (unofficial) Australian Red Cross form.Added to head of letter at a later date is inscription ' First letter written home for 3 1/2 years'.Top left hand- FOR SAFETY/ IN YOUR LETTERS DO NOT REFER TO:-/ The name of your ship or other ships in the convoy, or its escorts./The date of sailing, ports of call, or probable destination./ The description of troops, their loca-/tion or any other information/ which, if intercepted, would be of/ value to the enemy. In your Top right hand- Australian Red Cross Society/ (UNOFFICIAL)/ 25-8-45/ (added at later date 'Morotri Island')/ Alex, Have witten this especially/ as i don't wish our women folk to know the tougher side of life./Well Alex for the first/ 2 1/2 years as POWs we lived reasonably/ well, but the last 15 months was like /hell. Heres the worst lot of b-s/ you could find on earth, they worked /us from 7AM till 6 PM, & fed/ us on muck you wouldn't feed to/ Pigs. I'm nothing at all they would 2, pow, morotri island, morotai island, world war, prisoner of war, australian red cross society -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Booklet, Air Raid Precautions, 1941
This booklet was published on the recommendation of the Commonwealth government as part of a plan to offer protection to the people in the event of air strikes. Local councils and individuals were called to help to protect themselves in taking precautions,. The booklet itself sets out action to be taken in the event of an air raid happening, lighting restrictions fire prevention, refuge rooms and garden shelters and risks from air raids. It contains the relevant siren signals which denote different types of events and explains in detail various aspects of preparing for possible attack. There was discussion about issues such as evacuation of children should such an event occur with the focus primarily on the larger centres such as Geelong and Melbourne. From 1942 the number of air attacks increased mainly from Japan on the northern and western parts of Australia including over 60 on Darwin. Attacks continued into 1943 and it wasn’t until later in that year that the Prime Minister, John Curtin announced that the threat of invasion had passed.While the link to Warrnambool’s history is tenuous, it was a government publication to all persons in the state of Victoria in 1941.This item relates to a significant period in Australia’s history. All Australians were affected by the war. It has historical and scientific or research interest as it gives a number of diagrams and possible plans and the effectiveness of same. Olive green soft card cover with black text. 36 pages, with 2 extra pages depicting plans for shelters pasted inside back cover. Victorian coat of arms at top of cover.April 1941. H. E. Daw, Government printer. Forward by Sir John Harris KBE MLC Minister of Public Instruction and Public Healthhistory of warrnambool, air raid precautions 1941 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Print, Bombs over Darwin, 1991
On the 19 February 1942, 242 Japanese aircraft, in two separate raids, attacked the town of Darwin, ships in the harbour and the town's two airfields in an attempt to prevent the Allies from using them as bases to contest the invasion of Timor and Java during World War II. Darwin was lightly defended, relative to the size of the attack, and the Japanese inflicted heavy losses upon Allied forces at little cost to themselves. The two Japanese air raids were the first, and largest, of more than 100 air raids against Australia during 1942–43.The Bombing of Darwin, also known as the Battle of Darwin, on 19 February 1942 was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia. The urban areas of Darwin also suffered damage from the raids and there were a number of civilian casualties. As a result more than half of Darwin's civilian population left the area permanently, before or immediately after the attack. Timber framed print of planes depicting the bombing of Darwin Harbour. Gold metal plaque - BOMBS OVER DARWIN Presented to Wangaratta RSL Limited Edition Print 234/1800 by James Baineswwii, bombing of darwin, battle of darwin -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Photo and Medals, Private J L Parker
Photograph and medals belonging to Private John Leonard PARKER VX56265 2/23 Battalion AIF Killed in Action on 24/11/1943 during WW2. Buried at Lae cemetery in New Guinea. The 2/23rd Infantry Battalion was raised at the Albury Showgrounds in New South Wales in August 1940, as part of the 26th Brigade. Initially the brigade belonged to the 7th Division but in early 1941 moved to the 9th Division. The battalion did its initial training in Albury before moving to Bonegilla, Victoria, before sailing for the Middle East in November. The 2/23rd left Alamein on 2 December and headed back to Gaza in Palestine, where it participated in the 9th Division parade on 22 December. The battalion left Palestine in the third week of January 1943 and reached Sydney at the end of February. Reorganised for jungle operations, on 4 September the 2/23rd participated in the division's amphibious landing at Red Beach, north west of Lae. Shortly before the landing occurred, the invasion fleet was attacked by six Japanese fighters and three bombers. Most of the Japanese bombs missed the Allied ships but one bomb hit the landing craft carrying the 2/23rd headquarters - killing the battalion commander and the ship's captain. The landing craft, however, made it to shore and the 2/23rd participated in the subsequent fighting around Lae, Finschhafen, and Sattelberg. After Sattelberg, the 2/23rd continued to move inland, capturing Masangkoo, Kuanko, and finally on 9 December, Wareo. Brown timber frame with dark blue background containing photograph of soldier, three round and three star shaped medals and document with coloured crest."This scroll commemorates Private J. L Parker Australian Military Forces held in honour as one who served King and Country in the world war of 1939-1945 and gave his life to save mankind from tyranny. May his sacrifice help to bring the peace and freedom for which he died."private john leonoard parker, 2/23rd battalion, ww2, new guinea -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Print, February 19th 1942, Darwin Harbour
Image depicting the explosion of a ship, filled with TNT and ammunition, hit during the first Japanese air raid on Australia's mainland, at Darwin on 19 February 1942. In the foreground is HMAS Deloraine which survived unscathed. On that day, 236 people were killed when 242 Japanese aircraft, in two separate raids, attacked the town, ships in Darwin's harbour and the town's two airfields in an attempt to prevent the Allies from using them as bases to contest the invasion of Timor and Java during World War II. MV Neptuna was a 5,952 ton cargo motor vessel. and was 1 of 11 sunk during the Japanese air raid on Darwin on 19 February 1942. In January 1942 HMAS Deloraine evaded an attack by the Japanese submarine I-124 north-west of Darwin and was jointly credited with the submarines' sinking after she inflicted the initial damage. The Bombing of Darwin, also known as the Battle of Darwin, on 19 February 1942 was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia. Brown timber frame containing blue black and white print of ships being bombed.February 19th 1942, Darwin Harbour In the foreground the corvette HMAS Deloraine. Smoke billowing in the background is from burning oil tanks on shore, the mushroom cloud is from the explosionof the ammunition ship Neptuna. Watercolour by Tom Offordbombing of darwin, battle of darwin, 19 february 1942, ww2, mv neptuna, hmas deloraine -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Tribute, Wangaratta Picture Framers, Gull Force
... ). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed Gull Force... Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed ...On the night of 30-31 January 1942 this small force of 1131 Australian soldiers were stationed at Ambon, an island which formed part of the Netherland East Indies (now Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed Gull Force and the majority of the Australian soldiers were taken prisoner. The execution of 229 at Laha, starvation, over work, disease and the absence of medical supplies led to horrific loss. At the cessation of hostilities only 352 of the original 1131 had made it back to Australia. 779 members of Gull Force made the supreme sacrifice and now lie in foreign fields. The Battle of Ambon (30 January – 3 February 1942) occurred on the island of Ambon in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), during World War II. Japan invaded and conquered the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic and sometimes bloody fighting was followed by a series of major Japanese war crimes. Allied casualties in the battle were relatively light. However, at intervals for a fortnight after the surrender, Japanese personnel chose more than 300 Australian and Dutch prisoners of war at random and summarily executed them, at or near Laha airfield. In part, this was revenge for the sinking of the Japanese minesweeper, as some surviving crew of the minesweeper took part.. Three-quarters of the Australians captured on Ambon died before the war's end. Of the 582 who remained on Ambon, 405 died. They died of overwork, malnutrition, disease and one of the most brutal regimes among camps in which bashings were routine. Blood Oath, a 1990 Australian feature film is based on the real-life trial of Japanese soldiers for war crimes committed against Allied prisoners of war on the island of Ambon, in the Netherlands East Indies (Indonesia), such as the Laha massacre of 1942.Brown timber frame with gold coloured inner edge containing badge and tribute on grey backgroundGull Force 2/21 Battalion Ambon Laha In memory of and tribute to the Officers and Men of "Gull Force" comprising of 2/21 Battalion and attached Units.gull force, 2/21 battalion, ambon, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Dedication, The Nackeroos
2/1st North Australia Observer Unit 1942-1945 The Nackeroos - During the second World War the 2/1st North Australia Observer Unit guarded Northern Australia against Japanese incursions. The unit established positions in remote areas and carried out patrols on foot and horseback, reporting back by wireless.The unit was barely 550 strong, and with their headquarters in Katherine, in the Northern Territory, they were given the task of patrolling northern Australia to look for signs of enemy activity. The men made use of the knowledge of local Aboriginals and maintained coast watching outposts. As the threat of invasion passed, the unit was reduced in strength and disbanded in March 1945. A similar role is now carried out by the North West Mobile Force (NORFORCE) Black plastic frame containing a dedication on black background with red and green joined square symbol 2/1st North Australia Observer Unit 1942-1945 The Nackeroos In memory of those who served Dedicated on 27 August 20082/1st north australia observer unit, the nackeroos -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Plaque, Gull Force
... of the Netherland East Indies (now Indonesia). An invasion of approximately... Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed ...Plaque present to Corporal Sperry BODSWORTH MID who served with the 2/21st Battalion and involved with the Battle of Ambon. On the night of 30-31 January 1942 this small force of 1131 Australian soldiers were stationed at Ambon, an island which formed part of the Netherland East Indies (now Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed Gull Force and the majority of the Australian soldiers were taken prisoner. The execution of 229 at Laha, starvation, over work, disease and the absence of medical supplies led to horrific loss. At the cessation of hostilities only 352 of the original 1131 had made it back to Australia. 779 members of Gull Force made the supreme sacrifice and now lie in foreign fields. The Battle of Ambon (30 January – 3 February 1942) occurred on the island of Ambon in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), during World War II. Japan invaded and conquered the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic and sometimes bloody fighting was followed by a series of major Japanese war crimes. Allied casualties in the battle were relatively light. However, at intervals for a fortnight after the surrender, Japanese personnel chose more than 300 Australian and Dutch prisoners of war at random and summarily executed them, at or near Laha airfield. In part, this was revenge for the sinking of the Japanese minesweeper, as some surviving crew of the minesweeper took part.. Three-quarters of the Australians captured on Ambon died before the war's end. Of the 582 who remained on Ambon, 405 died. They died of overwork, malnutrition, disease and one of the most brutal regimes among camps in which bashings were routine. Blood Oath, a 1990 Australian feature film is based on the real-life trial of Japanese soldiers for war crimes committed against Allied prisoners of war on the island of Ambon, in the Netherlands East Indies (Indonesia), such as the Laha massacre of 1942.Brown timber in the shape of a shield mounted with a metal a coat of arms depicting white seagull above black and orange diamond within pale blue oval shape.Gull Force 2/21 Battalion Ambon Laha Plaque - Cpl Sperry Bodsworth VX23435 MIDgull force, 2/21 battalion, ambon, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Memorabilia - Photograph, 13th Light Horse, c1935
... was scarce and as the threat of an invasion by the Japanese... was scarce and as the threat of an invasion by the Japanese ...This black and white mage depicts large group of men dressed in military uniform of the Light Horse - with most wearing bandoliers and slouch hat, some with emu plumes. The 13th Light Horse Regiment was formed at Broadmeadows in Victoria in March 1915; it was the third light horse regiment to have been raised in that state. Its regimental number quickly led to it becoming known as the "Devil's Own" regiment. It left Australia on 28 May and disembarked in Egypt on 29 June 1915. In 1921, Australia's part-time military forces were re-organised to perpetuate the numerical designations of the AIF following its demobilisation. Through this process, the 13th Light Horse was re-raised as a Citizens Forces unit in Victoria, adopting the territorial designation of the "Gippsland Light Horse". In 1939, the regiment was amalgamated with the 19th Light Horse to become the 13th/19th Light Horse.In August 1940, during the opening stages of the Second World War, the 13th was re-formed in its own right. It was later mechanised and re-designated the "13th Motor Regiment". In May 1942, it was converted into an armoured regiment – designated as the "13th Armoured Regiment" – as part of the 2nd Armoured Division's 6th Armoured Brigade, which had been formed for defensive duties to guard against a possible invasion of mainland Australia. After moving to Puckapunyal in July, the regiment was equipped with M3 Grant tanks. Further training was undertaken in Murgon, Queensland, throughout 1943. By that time, manpower within the Army was scarce and as the threat of an invasion by the Japanese diminished during the year, so too did the need for large-scale armoured forces. A number of armoured units were subsequently disbanded as men and equipment were reallocated as the Army reorganised for jungle warfare. As a result, the 13th was disbanded in October 1943. In the post war period, the unit was perpetuated by the 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles, which existed between 1948 and 1991–92. During WWI three light horse regiments were raised in Victoria for the AIF, the 4th ALH, the 8th ALH and the 13th ALH. These regiments served with distinction at Gallipoli, in the Middle East and on the Western Front.Wide and narrow rectangle shaped black painted frame with gold colour mount and four silver metal screws in each corner. The frame contains a black and white photograph depicting a large group of men dressed in military uniform with bandoliers and slouch hat, some with emu plumes. A small black strip of plastic is attached in the centre of lower edge.Front - 13th Light Horse Rear - 2nd Division Cavalry School Broadmeadows 20-09-1935victoria, 13th light horse -
Clayton RSL Sub Branch
hard cover non-fiction book, The Military History of World war II, Temple Press Aerospace
Prelude to conflict -- Blitz in the West -- Britain alone -- Italy falters -- Hitler strikes South -- Enter Rommel -- Barbarossa -- The War against Japan -- The onslaught continues -- From Moscow to the Crimea -- Turning point in the desert -- Stalingrad to Kursk -- Victory in the desert -- The Convoy battles -- Hitting back against the Japanese -- The Italian armistice -- To the Gustav Line -- Approaches to the Philippines -- War over the Reich -- The invasion of France -- Destruction of the Army Group Centre -- The Seine to Arnhem -- The Empire's last throw -- Victory in Italy -- The end in Europe -- Victory over Japanhard cover non-fiction book maps and diagramsInscription on the first page "To Dad Happy Birthday, with love Jenny xxx 1987" Glued into the same front page is an article cut from the AFR Dec 22-27 2011. -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Plane Compass, 1941-1943
... an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social ...This compass is the type used by an artillery unit of the Australian Military Forces during World War 2 and made by J W Handley. Although having owned the factory site since 1935 at 657 Victoria St J W Handley began to produce various items for the Australian Military forces after purchasing and expanding the factory to 655 Victoria St. It appears that he, or some one else may already have been occupying the site for industrial purposes, such as (Manufacturing, Foundry and Electroplating) since at least 1929. J W Handley Pty Ltd was actively producing items for the Military during the war years, a newspaper article from 1939 shows the factory in production and employing 420 people during 1939. J W Handley after the war moved into producing other non military items including a range of fishing reels. The company ceased trading in 1987 and was deregistered as J W Handley Pty Ltd in 1990.The item demonstrates the industrial capability of Australia at the start of World War 2, this item is actively sort by collectors of Australian Military memorabilia and represents a time in Australian history when the country was at war and the general population was concerned about an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social significance as many Australians served in the Military forces at that time and the item is complete and in very good condition.A plane table compass, sometimes referred to as a trough compass, used by surveyors and artillery crew to accurately establish magnetic north. The compass is precision machined of brass material with a long needle to ensure accuracy. The compass scale is marked with a centre zero (for magnetic north) and graduations indicating plus and minus five degrees. The compass is housed in a protective wooden case with a sliding lid. The lid has a brass slide which locks the compass needle during periods when the compass is not in use.J.W.H./V Mark 11 D�D. Made by J W Handley Richmond Melbourne, Victoria. Serial number 1333 on boxflagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, trough compass, navigation instrument, surveyor's instrument, j w handley, artillery, australian army, trough, plane compass, world war 2 -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Plane Compass, 1941-1943
... population was concerned about an invasion from Japanese forces ...This compass is the type used by an artillery unit of the Australian Military Forces during World War 2 and made by J W Handley. Although having owned the factory site since 1935 at 657 Victoria St J W Handley began to produce various items for the Australian Military forces after purchasing and expanding the factory to 655 Victoria St. It appears that he, or some one else may already have been occupying the site for industrial purposes, such as (Manufacturing, Foundry and Electroplating) since at least 1929. J W Handley Pty Ltd was actively producing items for the Military during the war years, a newspaper article from 1939 shows the factory in production and employing 420 people during 1939. J W Handley after the war moved into producing other non military items including a range of fishing reels. The company ceased trading in 1987 and was deregistered as J W Handley Pty Ltd in 1990.The item demonstrates the industrial capability of Australia at the start of World War 2. This item is actively sort by collectors of Australian Military memorabilia and represents a time in Australian history when the country was at war and the general population was concerned about an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social significance as many Australians served in the Military forces at that time and the item is complete and in very good condition.A plane table compass, sometimes referred to as a trough compass, used by surveyors and artillery crew to accurately establish magnetic north. The compass is precision machined of brass material with a long needle to ensure accuracy. The compass scale is marked with a centre zero (for magnetic north) and graduations indicating plus and minus five degrees. The compass is housed in a protective wooden case with a sliding lid. The lid has a brass slide which locks the compass needle during periods when the compass is not in use.J.W.H./V Mark 11 D↑D. Made by J W Handley Richmond Melbourne, Victoria. Serial No 353flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, trough compass, navigation instrument, surveyor's instrument, j w handley, artillery, australian army, trough, plane compass, world war 2 -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Plane Compass, 1941-1943
... an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social ...This compass is the type used by an artillery unit of the Australian Military Forces during World War 2 and made by J W Handley. Although having owned the factory site since 1935 at 657 Victoria St J W Handley began to produce various items for the Australian Military forces after purchasing and expanding the factory to 655 Victoria St. It appears that he, or some one else may already have been occupying the site for industrial purposes, such as (Manufacturing, Foundry and Electroplating) since at least 1929. J W Handley Pty Ltd was actively producing items for the Military during the war years, a newspaper article from 1939 shows the factory in production and employing 420 people during 1939. J W Handley after the war moved into producing other non military items including a range of fishing reels. The company ceased trading in 1987 and was deregistered as J W Handley Pty Ltd in 1990.The item demonstrates the industrial capability of Australia at the start of World War 2. This item is actively sort by collectors of Australian Military memorabilia and represents a time in Australian history when the country was at war and the general population was concerned about an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social significance as many Australians served in the Military forces at that time and the item is complete and in very good condition.A plane table compass, sometimes referred to as a trough compass, used by surveyors and artillery crew to accurately establish magnetic north. The compass is precision machined of brass material with a long needle to ensure accuracy. The compass scale is marked with a centre zero (for magnetic north) and graduations indicating plus and minus five degrees. The compass is housed in a protective wooden case with a sliding lid. The lid has a brass slide which locks the compass needle during periods when the compass is not in use.J.W.H./V Mark 11 D↑D. Made by J W Handley Richmond Melbourne, Victoria. Serial number 92 flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, trough compass, navigation instrument, surveyor's instrument, j w handley, artillery, australian army, trough, plane compass, world war 2 -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Plane Compass, 1941-1943
... an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social ...This compass is the type used by an artillery unit of the Australian Military Forces during World War 2 and made by J W Handley. Although having owned the factory site since 1935 at 657 Victoria St J W Handley began to produce various items for the Australian Military forces after purchasing and expanding the factory to 655 Victoria St. It appears that he, or some one else may already have been occupying the site for industrial purposes, such as (Manufacturing, Foundry and Electroplating) since at least 1929. J W Handley Pty Ltd was actively producing items for the Military during the war years, a newspaper article from 1939 shows the factory in production and employing 420 people during 1939. J W Handley after the war moved into producing other non military items including a range of fishing reels. The company ceased trading in 1987 and was deregistered as J W Handley Pty Ltd in 1990.The item demonstrates the industrial capability of Australia at the start of World War 2. This item is actively sort by collectors of Australian Military memorabilia and represents a time in Australian history when the country was at war and the general population was concerned about an invasion from Japanese forces. It also therefor is of social significance as many Australians served in the Military forces at that time and the item is complete and in very good condition.A plane table compass, sometimes referred to as a trough compass, used by surveyors and artillery crew to accurately establish magnetic north. The compass is precision machined of brass material with a long needle to ensure accuracy. The compass scale is marked with a centre zero (for magnetic north) and graduations indicating plus and minus five degrees. The compass is housed in a protective wooden case with a sliding lid. The lid has a brass slide which locks the compass needle during periods when the compass is not in use.J.W.H./V Mark 11 D↑D. Made by J W Handley Richmond Melbourne, Victoria. Serial number 1279flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, trough compass, navigation instrument, surveyor's instrument, j w handley, artillery, australian army, trough, plane compass, world war 2 -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
RSL Photo Album, RSL Photo Album Section 3
During World War II the Japanese attacked New Britain soon after the outbreak of hostilities in the Pacific Ocean. During January 1942, Japanese heavily bombed Rabaul. On 23 January, Japanese marines landed by the thousands, starting the Battle of Rabaul. The Japanese used Rabaul as a heavy base until 1944; it served as the key point for the failed invasion of Port Moresby (May to November, 1942) Note: these photos are incorrectly labelled as Nth. Britain Photograph of "OIRE LUNG " airfield is in fact "WUNUNG, JACQUINOT BAY, NEW BRITAIN, 1945-08-28. A FULL PARADE OF 37/52 INFANTRY BATTALION AND 29/46 INFANTRY BATTALION, BOTH OF 4 BRIGADE, WAS HELD ON WUNUNG AIRSTRIP. THIS PARADE WAS TO PREPARE TROOPS FOR A PARADE TO BE HELD ON 1945-09-03. SHOWN, 37/52 INFANTRY BATTALION PRESENTING ARMS." Airstrip was maintained by 1 ACSPhoto Album 360 Pocket "Photo Safe" divided for cataloguing purposes into 4 sections. Section 1 Recent Colour Photos of RSL and commemoration services Section 2 Black and white photos of earlier commemoration services, Section 3 WWII photos mainly of New Britain 1945, Section 4 Early photos of Memorabilia display.new britain, wwii, japanese surrender, pow, rms aquitania, ss nieuw amsterdam, rms mauritania, rabaul, wunung airfield, jaquinot bay, 1 acs -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Nigel Cawthorne, Reaping the whirlwind : the German and Japanese experience of World War II, 2007
Reaping the Whirlwind offers amazing insight into the events of World War II through the eyes of those who fought against the Allied forces in all theatres of the war. Readers will comb through many previously unpublished accounts of the war from German, Italian and Japanese soldiers, civilians and military leaders. The book covers every major arena of the war: Europe; the German invasion of Russia; Rommel's Afrika Korps; and the Pacific war between Japan and forces of the US, Australia and New Zealand. Reaping the Whirlwind uses the authentic voices of Germans and Japanese people caught up in the conflict and highlights the similar deprivations and dangers experienced by both victors and vanquished.Index, bibliography, ill, maps, p.288.non-fictionReaping the Whirlwind offers amazing insight into the events of World War II through the eyes of those who fought against the Allied forces in all theatres of the war. Readers will comb through many previously unpublished accounts of the war from German, Italian and Japanese soldiers, civilians and military leaders. The book covers every major arena of the war: Europe; the German invasion of Russia; Rommel's Afrika Korps; and the Pacific war between Japan and forces of the US, Australia and New Zealand. Reaping the Whirlwind uses the authentic voices of Germans and Japanese people caught up in the conflict and highlights the similar deprivations and dangers experienced by both victors and vanquished. world war 1939-1945 - participation - germany, world war 1939-1945 - participation - japan -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Allen & Unwin, On our doorstep : when Australia faced the threat of invasion by the Japanese, 2020
... invasion by the Japanese... the threat of invasion by the Japanese Index, bibliography, notes ...By March 1942, the Japanese had steamrolled through Malaya, laid siege to Singapore, and bombed Darwin with the same ferocity they had dealt Pearl Harbor. Nothing could stop them. Their next step was inevitable, surely: the invasion and occupation of Australia. Meanwhile, as Australian prime minister John Curtin was battling with Winston Churchill to get troops back from overseas to defend their homeland, he was also positioning to ensure the United States would be there with us to fend off the approaching enemy. And at home, people pitched in as best they could and in any way to frustrate the invader. They all played their part, torn between 'she'll be right' and near panic. On Our Doorstep is the story of how Australia and Australians - the government, the military and the people - prepared to face this calamity, and the events that persuaded them of its probability. In the end, Japan found it had stretched itself beyond the reliability of its supply line, but had it ever intended to invade Australia?Index, bibliography, notes, ill, map, p.404.non-fictionBy March 1942, the Japanese had steamrolled through Malaya, laid siege to Singapore, and bombed Darwin with the same ferocity they had dealt Pearl Harbor. Nothing could stop them. Their next step was inevitable, surely: the invasion and occupation of Australia. Meanwhile, as Australian prime minister John Curtin was battling with Winston Churchill to get troops back from overseas to defend their homeland, he was also positioning to ensure the United States would be there with us to fend off the approaching enemy. And at home, people pitched in as best they could and in any way to frustrate the invader. They all played their part, torn between 'she'll be right' and near panic. On Our Doorstep is the story of how Australia and Australians - the government, the military and the people - prepared to face this calamity, and the events that persuaded them of its probability. In the end, Japan found it had stretched itself beyond the reliability of its supply line, but had it ever intended to invade Australia?world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – south west pacific, australia - politics and government - 1939-1945 -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Department of Veterans' Affairs, A bitter fate : Australians in Malaya & Singapore, December 1941 - February 1942, 2002
... /W and colour illustrations and stories on the Japanese ...B/W and colour illustrations and stories on the Japanese invasion of Malaya and Singapore and the experiences of the Australian Forces in 1941/42.Notes, ill, maps, p.146.non-fictionB/W and colour illustrations and stories on the Japanese invasion of Malaya and Singapore and the experiences of the Australian Forces in 1941/42. world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – malaya, siege of singapore -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Alistair MacLean, South by Java head, 1958
... for the Japanese invasion of Australia. In order to get at there is nothing ...A Singapore falls to the Japanese a small group of men and women set sail on desperate journey. One of them carries a cargo without price, the complete plans for the Japanese invasion of Australia. In order to get at there is nothing the Japanese will not do. They will stop at nothing.p.286.non-fictionA Singapore falls to the Japanese a small group of men and women set sail on desperate journey. One of them carries a cargo without price, the complete plans for the Japanese invasion of Australia. In order to get at there is nothing the Japanese will not do. They will stop at nothing. world war 1939-1945 - fiction, war stories