Arthur Lock was a Rat of Tobruk and served as President of the Albury Rats of Tobruk Association. 14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A green tie featuring the insignia of the Rats of Tobruk and a Tobruk "T" tie pin.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

This item was owned by Arthur Lock. The initals engraved on the side are those of his mother, Edith May Lock,This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A silver and leather hip flask with clear glass viewing window on each side.Engraved on one side "E.M.L" On base 1/4 PT/ HARDY BROS/MADE IN ENGLAND / 565Aarthur lock, rats of tobruk

14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A wooden plaque in the shape of a shield with one large emblem of the Rats of Tobruk Association in the centre and 4 smaller emblems attached. The smaller emblems represent the Rats of Tobruk Association, the Returned Services League Australia and the Queensland Civil Defence. The Rats of Tobruk motto is also included on a metal scroll. Beneath the badges on a metal scroll "NO SURRENDER"world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, rats of tobruk association

These items were part of standard supplies and personal items issued to members of the Australian Defence Forces during World War 2.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A metal can/bottle opener and cigarette lighter. On Opener "STOKES /MELB"world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

This memorial commemorates the historic siege of Tobruk. The memorial is based on the one in the Tobruk War Cemetery, built by Royal Australian Engineers during the siege. That memorial has since been destroyed. The original marble inscription stone was brought back to Australia after the war and is incorporated in the obelisk in Canberra. The memorial was unveiled on 13 April 1983 by the Governor-General of Australia, Sir Ninian StephenThis item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A group of 3 coasters produced to commemorate the unveiling of the Tobruk Memorial in Canberra on 13 April 1983. In top left "CANBERRA TOBRUK/MEMORIAL/UNVEILED 13 APRIL 1983"world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region.A square cardboard coaster produced a memorabilia for the Rats of Tobruk Association in Victoria in 1980. The Rats of Tobruk emblem. Below the emblem "1980 REUNION VICTORIA"world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

This cassette was taped by the Rats of Tobruk Association. ABC war correspondent Chester Wilmot (1911-1954) pioneered the use of recording equipment in the field. He spent several months in Tobruk in 1941. In October 1941 the ABC Field Unit recorded a concert put on by 400 Australian soldiers in an ammunition cave. Wilmot’s introduction sets the scene and items feature individual and chorus items and a saxophone and piano accordion performance.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A cassette of the Tobruk Concert held in 1941 in the caves behind the lines in an armament cave in Tobruk. "TOBRUK CONCERT 1941"world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, chester wilmot, concert in tobruk

The Victorian Branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association was formed on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy. This booklet comes from the collection of Arthur Lock who was a Rat of Tobruk and President of the Association in Albury. He passed away on June 28, 2000.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A small light green booklet setting out the bylaws of the Victorian Branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association, modified in 1990.world war 11, rats of tobruk, rats of tobruk association

Arthur Lock was a Rat of Tobruk and served as President of the Albury Rats of Tobruk Association. 14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region.A Christmas card produced by the Rats of Tobruk Association. It includes an image of St. Anthony's Church, Tobruk taken in 1941.world war 11, rats of tobruk, rats of tobruk association

The majority of the 2/23rd Battalion's initial intake of volu nteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region and as a result, the 2/23rd became known as "Albury's Own" and were adopted by the city of Albury. In 1946 the2/23 Australian Infantry Battalion Association adopted the children`s ward of the Albury Base Hospital as a memorial ward to honour those who made the supreme sacrifice. Members of the Association continued to raise funds for the hospital, On Anzac Day, 1976 a service was held to dedicate a plaque marking the Children's Ward as a memorial of the 2/23rd Battalion. This is the program from that dedication service. An addition plaque commemorating the efforts of the 2nd / 23rd Australian Infantry Battalion Association in raising funds for the Albury Base Hospital was added on Tuesday 30th November, 1999.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A program marking the Dedication of the Children's Ward of the Albury Base hospital in honour of the men of the 2/23rd Battalion known as "Albury's Own".world war 11, 2/23rd battalion

non-fictionThe 2/23rd Infantry Battalion was raised at the Albury Showgrounds in New South Wales in June 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 need fo larger quarters saw the battalion transferring to a new camp at Bonegilla to complete their training .before sailing for the Middle East in November. Most of those enlisted in this Battalion were volunteers from the Albury Wodonga area the Aldermen of Albury expressend the wish that the unit be given the title of "Albury's Own" and this was accepted on its behalf but the commanding officer. The men of the 2/23 rd Battalion served with honour in the Middle East, including at the Siege of Tobruk and El Alamein. After returning to Queensland for training in jungle warfare conditions, they were then deployed to New Guinea and Tarakan. This book tells the story of the service and brotherhood demonstrated by the men of "Albury's Own." Written and composed by officers and men of the 2/23 Battalion, A.I.F. 9th Division, while on active service, Palestine, Tobruk, Syria and El Alamein.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

non-fictionOne of a series of travel books produced by Frank Clune. This volume details his travels and observances in the Middle East during 1942. Clune was an honorary commissioner of the Australian Comforts Fund. Clune allegedly “left a very bad impression” on General Sir Thomas Blamey for his ‘irregular methods and indiscreet utterances’ about the British ‘only playing at war’. Blamey therefore ensured that Clune was subject to military censorship. Royalties from this book and funds raised during a lecture tour promoting it in 1943 were donated to the Australia Comforts Fund to whose voluntary workers it is dedicated. world war 11, world war 1939 - 1945, middle east

non-fictionThis book represents the wartime service of the author through a series of caricatures and humorous anecdotes. Ken Lovell saw action in Greece and Syria before being transferred to the 2/23rd Battalion, Ninth Division as a Signals operator. Although reflecting the Aussie dry humour, on many pages of the book containing sketches of a mate there appears a small cross with the letters K.I.A. and a date. world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

Arthur Lock was a Rat of Tobruk and served as President of the Albury Rats of Tobruk Association. 14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A jacket, tie and tie pin belonging to the Victorian Rats of Tobruk Association. This jacket was owned by Arthur Lock.On pocket- Rats of Tobruk Association Victoria Emblem. Inside garment Size M 102world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

non-fictionThe Siege of Tobruk has become one of the famous sagas of courage against the odds. Much has been written about it. This publication was the first visual record covering the Siege from all points of view. It includes more that 500 photographs, many taken by troops in the forward areas. The compiler of this publication was a Liaison Officer attached to Headquarters, 26 Australian Infantry Brigade and was mentioned in despatches for his part in the withdrawal from Benghai and the Battle of the Salient in Tobruk.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

A small retractable pen whis was used by Arthur LockThis item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A small extendable pencil made from metal and plastic. The pencil can be screwed out to extend it and replace lead. Initials "N.W.D. engraved on sideworld war 11, rats of tobruk, arthur lock

A wide range of memorabilia was created to commemorate the 2/23 rd Australian Infantry Battalion. Later pieces incorporated the Tobruk unit patch which was incorporated into their uniform from 1942 until 17 February 1946 when the unit was disbanded at Puckapunyal, Victoria.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A plastic shield depicting the 2/23rd Tobruk colour patch above scroll inscribed with 2/23RD AUST INF. BN. This has been screwed onto a piece of metal. 2/23RD AUST INF. BNworld war 11, 2/23rd battalion

Arthur Lock was enlisted with the 2/23rd Battalion in World War 2. After the conclusion of the war, he was an active member of the Rats of Tobruk Association and the 2/23rd Infantry Battalion Association. This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A blue tie featuring the Tobruk T colour patch adopted by the 2/23rd Battalion from 1942 until the unit was disbanded in 1946.world war 11, tobruk, 2/23rd battalion, arthur lock

Why the name 'Rats of Tobruk'? A former British citizen William Joyce, better known as Lord Haw-Haw, broadcast Nazi propaganda during World War II. His announcement ‘Germany calling, Germany calling’ was a familiar sound across the airwaves, broadcasting misinformation from Hamburg. During the Tobruk siege, he often referred to the men defending the garrison at Tobruk as “poor desert rats of Tobruk, who live like rats and will die like rats. The Australian soldiers loved the term ‘Rats of Tobruk’ and adopted it as a badge of honour. Calling themselves the ‘Rats of Tobruk’, they turned the derogatory comments back against the Germans. William Joyce was eventually captured and returned to Britain, where he was later hanged for treason in January 1946. This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A plastic and enamel badge of the Rats of Tobruk Association mounted on a wood base. The logo appears to be one of only a small number to use the acronym R.O.T.A above the more common Association Logo.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk

non-fictionThe Siege of Tobruk lasted for 241 days in 1941. Tobruk was the only harbour between Bengazi and Alexandria and became crucial in preventing Rommel's sweep to the Nile. Tobruk was captured in 1941 and became a beleagured fortress until its garrison was relieved in November 1941. Churchill and his War Cabinet had declared that "Tobruk must be held to the death". The Australians under Major General Morshead fought like tigers . Nazi propaganda radio broadcasts spoke contemptuously of the Tobruk defenders as ‘rats’. In defiance, the soldiers proudly adopted this nickname and have been known by it ever since. During the siege, they designed their own medals, in the shape of a rat, made from the scrap metal of a downed German aeroplane. Anthony Heckstalk-Smith who was himself a Flotilla Officer the "A" Lighters which provided supplies to the garrison, researched evidence from officers of all units involved - Australian, South African, German and British to write this controversial story of men in battle.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, siege of tobruk, arthur lock

This item was owned by Athur Lock who lived in the Wodonga district after World War 11. As well as being a Rat of Tobruk, Arthur made a significant contribution to the community and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1972 for services to young people and the Wodonga community. He was involved in the scouting movement for over 50 years. Arthur was also an amateur radio operator with call number VK3AULThis item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A leather case with surrounding strap and metal buckle. The case contains 2 brushes.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, arthur lock

The Australian Commonwealth Military Forces (AMF) was the official name of the Australian Army from 1916 to 1980. The AMF included the full-time regular army and the part-time forces, which were also known as the Militia, the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), and the Australian Citizen Military Force (ACMF). The AMF was made up of conscripted and volunteer militiamen, as well as specialist permanent soldiers.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A wooden plaque in the shape of a shield bearing insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces and the Tobuk colour patch. 3 Australian Commonwealth Military Forces badges and metal badge engraved "AUSTRALIA"world war 11, tobruk, rats of tobruk, australian commonwealth military services, arthur lock

14,000 Australians were in Tobruk during the siege. On return to Australia the veterans looked to maintain the ties created amongst those who were in Tobruk during the siege and to ensure their needs were supported. In 1944, the Rats of Tobruk Association, NSW was established. This was followed by the establishment of the Victorian Branch on 2nd October 1945. Other branches and sub-branches were established across Australia and a Federal Council was established in 1946. With the passing of the survivors of Tobruk, most branches have been wound up with the exception of the Victorian branch. Since 2012 the Rats of Tobruk Association Inc. has opened up affiliate membership to descendants and relatives of the original "Rats" in order to preserve their legacy.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region.A decorative transfer featuring the Rats of Tobruk Association emblem. It has been attached to a piece of cardboard.world war 11, tobruk, rats of tobruk association

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A black and white photograph of a large cannon in its bay at the Imperial Palace Hue, South Vietnam. The tanks and regional force outposts surrounding the old gun emplacements appear as a anachronism in the modern conflict being raged in South Vietnam. (circa April 1966)photograph, imperial palace, hue, tet offensive, 1968, gibbons collection catalogue, cannon, denis gibbons

Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A coloured photograph of Ceiling decorations in the receiving foyer area of the Imperial Palace at Hue, in the Northern area of South Vietnam. The Palace was heavily damaged during the Tet Offensive of January to March 1968. the richness and beauty of the palace was completely scared.photograph, imperial palace, hue, tet offensive, 1968, gibbons collection catalogue, denis gibbons

Commemorative scroll sent to the next of kin of Private Rupert James Cavanagh MOORE 6852 attached to the 3rd Machine Gun Battalion and who made the ultimate sacrifice.- killed in action on 13/7/1918 in France. MOORE was born in Wangaratta, Victoria and a Printer when enlisted on 6/2/1917.In 1922 a Memorial Scroll was presented to the next of kin of those soldiers, sailors, and nurses who died while serving in the Australian Imperial Force or Royal Australian Navy during the First World War. Later they were presented with a Next of Kin Memorial Plaque. The Memorial Scroll bears the Royal Coat of Arms and a message paying tribute to the soldiers who gave up "their own lives that others might live in freedom". Cream paper scroll with Coat of Arms above ten lines of black writing and two lines in red ink.Pte. Rupert James Cavanagh Moore 3rd M.G.Bn., A.I.F.pte rupert james cavanagh moore, kia, wangaratta, ww1

The Rising Sun crafted from timber by Alan Darwin of Wangaratta Woodworkers Inc., and presented to the Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch to commemorate the 100 year ANZAC campaignProudly worn by soldiers of the 1st and 2nd Australian Imperial Force in both World Wars, the 'Rising Sun' badge has become an integral part of the digger tradition. The distinctive shape of the badge, worn on the upturned side of a slouch hat, is commonly identified with the spirit of AnzacCarved timber badge in the shape of the Rising Sun above crown and bannerCarved "The Australian Army" Gold plaque engraved"To commemorate the 100 year ANZAC campaign "rising sun, anzac

Australian National Flag Montage depicting 15 Australian flags, including Naval, Military and Aboriginal flags - with history and details of each flag, also featuring the words of our National AnthemAustralia entered the first world war with three flags representing its dual nationality: the Union Jack as national flag and its two Australian ensigns. All three featured in recruiting drives for the Australian Imperial Force (the AIF). At that time the Union Jack was clearly regarded as the most importantBlack and gold painted frame containing montage of Australian flag and 14 smaller flags with boxed narratives.The Australian National Flag Gold Plaque - Proudly endorsed by the Returned & Services League of Australia 1992 Signed by Brigadier A B Garland AM and B C Ruxton OBEflags, australian, australian states and territories

With the outbreak of the First World War, HMAS Australia became the flagship of the naval force that captured the German colonies in the southern Pacific. She led a force which captured Rabaul on 13 September 1914 before proceeding to Samoa. With no German forces left in the South Pacific, Australia was deployed to the United Kingdom. En route she sank the German ship Eleanore Woermann. On 8 February 1915 she became flagship of the 2nd Battle-cruiser Squadron of the Royal Navy's Grand Fleet. Australia's service with the Grand Fleet consisted of a series of frequent patrols and exercises. She was twice rammed, firstly on 22 April 1916 by HMS New Zealand. This led to her missing the Battle of Jutland which, considering the disastrous losses in the Battle-cruiser Force, may well have been fortunate. She was rammed again by HMS Repulse in December 1917. Australia carried out experimental aircraft operations in 1918 and led the port column of the Grand Fleet at the surrender of the German High Seas Fleet. Returning home in 1919, Australia suffered a mutiny upon reaching Fremantle, Western Australia. Quite obsolete, she became a training vessel in Westernport until scuttled off Sydney Heads on 12 April 1924.The Australian Navy's first flagship, the battle cruiser HMAS Australia (I) was the centrepiece of the 'Fleet Unit', whose acquisition signalled the RAN's arrival as a credible ocean going force. Ordered from John Brown and Company in March 1910, construction began three months later with the total cost of the ship and fittings expected to be some £2 million. The Commonwealth Government decided upon the name Australia, and it proved a popular choice, carefully avoiding any suggestion of favouritism towards any one Australian State. The ship's badge maintained the national theme by featuring the Federation Star overlaid by a naval crown, while the motto 'Endeavour' reflected the ideal of the Australian spirit and recalled Lieutenant James Cook's ship of 1768-71.Timber frame of black and white print of a ship at sea.Imperial War Museum Photograph HMAS AUSTRALIA - RAN FLAGSHIP First flagship of the Royal Austrlian Navy 1913-1920 Sunk under the terms of the Washington Treaty 12th April 1924 This frame is made of teak from her deckhmas australia, ww1