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Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Document, Identity Card: Ernest Thomas Orford, 1942
... was issued to British subjects who were civilians. During World War... was issued to British subjects who were civilians. During World War ...Civilian Registration Identity Card issued to Ernest Thomas Orford of Irvines Road, Eltham, farmer, signed by subject and witnessed by Elizabeth J. Cox of Eltham. This type of card was issued to British subjects who were civilians. During World War II everyone in Australia was issued with a personal identity card and was required to report changes of address to the government. These cards were particularly important in the identification and monitoring of Aliens (non-citizen residents) , particularly non-Europeans and Asian residents.1942, civilian registration (british subjects), elizabeth j. cox, eltham, ernest thomas orford, identity card, irvines road, second world war, ww2 -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Document, Identity Card: Douglas Frederick Orford, 1943
... subjects who were civilians. During World War II everyone... subjects who were civilians. During World War II everyone ...Civilian Registration Identity Card issued to Douglas Frederick Orford of Irvines Road, Eltham, a student of Eltham Higher Elementary School, signed by subject and witnessed by E.T. Orford, farmer of Eltham. This type of card was issued to British subjects who were civilians. During World War II everyone in Australia was issued with a personal identity card and was required to report changes of address to the government. These cards were particularly important in the identification and monitoring of Aliens (non-citizen residents) , particularly non-Europeans and Asian residents.civilian registration (british subjects), eltham, ernest thomas orford, identity card, irvines road, second world war, ww2, douglas frederick orford, eltham higher elementary school, 1943 -
Glen Eira Historical Society
Document - Capek, Irene Mrs
... during World War II prior to coming to Australia.... and concentration camps during World War II prior to coming to Australia ...Two pages of typed notes by Irene Capek dated May 1994 describing her experiences in Czechoslovakia and concentration camps during World War II prior to coming to Australia.capek irene, jewish community, world war 1939-1945, norwood road, caulfield -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Jorgensen, Justus, 1893-1975, Self portrait, Justus Jorgensen, founder of Montsalvat, c.1955
... on the Eltham district-particularly in the period following World War II... on the Eltham district-particularly in the period following World War II ...Founder of Montsalvat Reproduced Page 106 of Pioneers & Painters, edited by Alan Marshall (1971) Note: print in book and print copy are mirror imaged There was probably little earth building done in the district in this century until 1934, when Justus Jorgensen, architect and artist, bought land in Eltham and with his students and followers commenced to build the fascinating complex of buildings now know as ‘Montsalvat’. These buildings and his use of materials, both local stone and earth, and reclaimed materials, were to have a remarkable influence on the Eltham district-particularly in the period following World War II. The first building at ‘Montsalvat’ was a picturesque house of or rammed earth with a high-pitched roof. Jorgensen has used a variety of building materials but it is possibly his use of earth, both pise-de-terre and mud brick, which has had the most influence on the environmental building in Eltham in the post war years. By the end of the 1940s, an impressive array of adobe and pise buildings had been completed. – Alan Marshall, 1971, “Pioneers & Painters”This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 4 x 5 inch Clr Reversal (3) Print 21 x 16.5 cm (printed in mirror image)justus jorgensen, montsalvat, pioneers and painters, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Document, Russell Yeoman, Tour of Historic Buildings and Locations, 1978
... subscription as a Memorial following World War II. Their construction... subscription as a Memorial following World War II. Their construction ...Self guided heritage tour information produced by the Shire of Eltham Historical Society for 1978 Eltham Community Festival of 36 locations each numbered on accompanying map. Locations and detail provided current to 1978: 1. ELTHAM SHOPPING CENTRE Whilst very little remains in the centre of historical importance, this area has interest as the "village" which developed over many years following the opening of the railway from Melbourne in 1902. Previously the shopping centre had been spread out over a long length of Main Road to the south. Shops have been continuously demolished or remodelled and the majority of buildings date from the 1950's or later. The recently erected Post Office replaced the "old" Post Office opened on the same site only in 1958. 2. WOOLWORTHS ELTHAM VILLAGE Part of the site of this modern shopping development was occupied by the former Eltham Shire Offices and Hall. The hall was paid for by public subscription whilst the Council raised a loan for the offices. The combined building was opened in 1941. It served as office and Council meeting place until 1965 and as the hall until its demolition in 1970. 3. ELTHAM WAR MEMORIAL The complex of buildings adjoining the present Shire Offices were financed by public subscription as a Memorial following World War II. Their construction and for many years their operation was organised by the now disbanded Eltham War Memorial Committee. The original buildings were the; Infant Welfare Centre, Children’s Library (now War Memorial Hall and Dental Clinic) and Kindergarten. In later years the Elderly Citizens Club was built at the rear. 4. ELTHAM SHIRE OFFICES These offices were opened in 1965 and extended in 1971 to provide additional office accommodation and the Eltham Library. They represent the last of a long line of offices and meeting places of the Eltham Shire Council and its predecessor the Eltham District Road Board. The building occupies the former site of Shillinglaw Cottage. The three tall cypress trees which stood in front of the Cottage have been retained as a feature of the office surrounds. 5. OUR LADY'S CHURCH AND SCHOOL The Catholic Church and School complex opposite the Shires Offices shows a number of stages in the development of Eltham township. The recently constructed church adjoins its predecessor (now the parish centre). Many years ago the Catholic Church was located opposite Wingrove Park and the present central site follows the northerly drift of the township. 6. SHILLINGLAW COTTAGE The Cottage was built in 1859 by George Stebbing, a local builder who was responsible for a number of other prominent buildings in the area. Its removal from the site of the Shire Offices and re-erection on the present site was financed by public subscription. It is built of handmade bricks laid in Flemish Bond with an unusual design featuring burnt "leader" bricks over the whole facade. The Cottage is occupied by Eltham Fleececrafts and will be open during the Festival and at other times during weekends. It is classified by the National Trust. 7. RAILWAY BRIDGE The timber trestle bridge over the Diamond Creek was built in 1901. Whilst all of its timbers have been replaced at various times over the years the only change to its character has been the addition of pylons and wiring for electric trains in 1923. It is one of very few similar bridges remaining in the metropolitan area. In 1976 a proposal to replace the bridge with an earth embankment and large culvert pipes was abandoned following community protests. The bridge, however, remains under threat because of the necessity for future deuplication of the railway line. 8. ELTHAM CENTPAL PARK The area between the railway and the creek has for many years been used as a park which included Eltham' s main football oval. The access road, Panther Place is named after Eltham's team playing in the Diamond Valley League. In recent years a large area extending to Bridge Street and locally known as the Town Park has been landscaped and added to the area. The excellent blending of the park with the natural landscape of the creek valley has earned a National Trust Landscape Classification. 9. OLD BAKERY On the southern corner of York Street and Main Road is an old house with a shop front which was for many years the local baker's shop. The brick bakery at the rear is of somewhat later vintage than the house. 10. BRIDGE STREET CUTTING Before reconstruction of Main Road this intersection had deep cutting embankments on all four corners, forming a distinctive feature of the entrance to Eltham. Roadworks and private development have levelled the land on the low side of the road. A memorial to the Eltham soldiers of World War I which was located at the north-western corner is now situated at the Eltham R.S.L. 11. HILLTOP MILK BAR For many years this was the site of the Eltham Post Office under the control of the Hunniford family and later their descendants the Burgoynes. It was transferred to this site in 1855, although at that time the building apparently fronted Bridge Str e et. The site contained Eltham's first telephone exchange. The post office was relocated in 1954 but the shop was operated until recently by the Burgoyne family who still own the surrounding land. 12. UNITING CHURCH and former C.B.A. BANK The former Methodist Church was built in 1880 by George Stebbing. The Sunday School extension was built in 1929 and there have been more recent extensions. The adjoining opportunity shop was built as a bank in 1874 and purchased by the Methodist Church in 1954. 13. R.S.L. HALL, TELEPHONE EXCHANGE These relatively recent buildings occupy the site of a row of shops forming part of the early ribbon of business development along Main Road. In front of the R.S.L. building is the World War I Memorial relocated from the corner of Bridge Street and Main Road. 14. ELTHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Australia's first mudbrick "community building" was opened in April this year. Part of the site of the building was purchased in 1856 by Henry Dendy (of Brighton fame). At the rear of the land near the creek was a steam flour mill whilst Dendy's house was at the Main Road frontage of the land. His purchase totalled about 2 Ha (5 acres) and included land on the opposite side of Maria Street (Main Road). Dendy became a prominent member of the Eltham community and served one term as President of the Eltham District Road Board. In 1867 Dendy sold his land and business to William Ford of Malmsbury and shifted to Walhalla. The avenue of trees leading past the Community Centre to the creek may well have bordered the track to the mill. 15. ELTHAM HOTEL The original part of this hotel was built in 1927 following the burning of the former Watson's Eltham Hotel on the same site. The car park on the opposite side of Main Road was also the site of a hotel variously known over the years as; the Fountain of Friendship, the Fountain and the Evelyn Arms. As the Fountain of Friendship it was the first meeting place of the Eltham District Road Board in 1856. 16. ST. MARGARET'S CHURCH, PITT STREET In 1860 Henry Dendy was appointed Chairman of a committee to establish a church of England in Eltham. He donated part of his land in Pitt Street and in 1861 the church was opened. It was built by George Stebbing and remains in a well preserved state today. Th adjoining old vicarage is now named Dendy Hou se. A new mudbrick church hall is under construction on the site. The church and Dendy House are now listed on the Register of Historic Buildings. 17. NO. 86 PITT STREET Cottage built by George Stebbing and believed to be his home for some years in the 1850s. 18. LIVING AND LEARNING CENTRE The house was built in the 1850s with the kitchen at the front being added about 40 years later. By the creek below the house a number of early Eltham industries were located. These included a tannery and a brewery. 19. ELTHAM COURT HOUSE A Court of Petty Sessions was established in Eltham in 1858 and the present building dates from 1860. It is the oldest public building remaining in Eltham. In its early days the building was used as the meeting place and office of the Eltham District Road Board and as an overflow classroom for the local school. The Court House has been classified by the National Trust. The citation states that it is an example of the simple form of early brick Court House with gabled roof and porch. 20. LANDS DEPARTMENT OFFICE This building is the former police station and is probably of about the same age as the Court House. The lockup at the rear has been demolished but the old stables remain as garages. A licence was first granted for a police station at Eltham in 1856. 21. JARROLD COTTAGE The old Cottage opposite Dalton Street was formerly owned by the Jarrold family. Early records indicate that this was the building leased from the Jarrolds as a temporary police station prior to construction of the building on the corner of Brougham Street. The small building on the corner of the property was used as a boot repairer's shop. The elevated studio at the rear is a more recent construction by the present owners. 22. STATE SCHOOL RESIDENCE Erected in 1891 23. WINGROVE COTTAGE This building fills an important place in the history of Eltham and is now used as a medical clinic. It was built in 1858 for Charles S. Wingrove who was Secretary to the Eltham District Road Board and Shire Council from 1858 to 1904. During part of this period he was also Shire Engineer and was Secretary to the Heidelberg Road Board. The house was used as the office of the Board and Council for many years. Wingrove is buried in the cemetery at St. Helena. 24. WINGROVE PARK The parkland opposite Wingrove Cottage has been named after Charles Wingrove. The old Manna Gums are an outstanding feature of the park. 25. ELTHAM FRI.MARY SCHOOL NO. 209 The school first opened in the slab building in 1855 and operated from the present site since 1857. The oldest part of the present school is the stone building erected in 1876. The first school teacher, David Clark remained at the school until 1888. This school is the government township and has always been known as the Eltham School. An earlier school (no.371) known as Little Eltham School operated in Swan Street from 1853 to 1872. 26. "SHOESTRING" This house was built for school teacher David Clark. It has been extensively extended in recent years but the extensions do not detract from the character of the older part of the building. 27. ELTHAM CEMETERY The cemetery contains the graves of many of the district's pioneers . 28. MONTSALVAT This unique complex of buildings was commenced in 1935 by the late Justus Jorgensen and its development has extended over many years. Montsalvat has exerted a significant impact on Eltham The earth and stone construction of many of the buildings has influenced local architecture to a great extent and it has served as a "nerve centre" of the local artistic community. Montsalvat is open to the public for a small charge. 29. MAIN ROAD BRIDGE This location has been the main crossing of Diamond Creek since the earliest days of settlement. The present concrete bridge was erected in 1925 .and was preceded by a number of timber bridges. 30. ELTHAM LOWER PARK This park, being an unusually large flat area for Eltham, was originally the local racecourse. Horse races were held here from 1855 and the area was gazetted as a reserve for a racecourse and recreation reserve in 1857. The park is well known as a venue for school "bird days" and more recently as the site of the Diamond Valley Railway. This miniature railway features scale models of modern and old locomotives and rolling stock and has operated on this site since 1961 . Before that the railway operated at Chelsworth Park, Ivanhoe. 31. FALKINER HOUSE Frederick Falkiner was one of the earliest settlers in the Eltham township area and occupied a substantial leasehold prior to the first land sales. Early records show that Falkiner was the subject of a number of complaints from his neighbours but he has nevertheless been considered a prominent enough citizen to have a street named for him. This house was the home of Evelyn (Ely) Falkiner a member of Frederick's family. 32. WEST HOUSE Behind the large house on the hill is an early house built by the West family. This was relocated from a site near the front of the land by the present owner Mr. Fabbro. 33. FALKINER HOUSE This very old house is believed to have been the home of Frederick and may have been Eltham's first post office. Falkiner was the first post master for a short period. in 1854/55. 34. WITHERS HOUSE This house was the home of famous artist Walter Withers who shifted here from Heidelberg in 1903. 35. ELTHAM HIGH SCHOOL This school celebrated its jubilee this year, having commenced as the Eltham Higher Elementary School 50 years ago. 36. DIAMOND CREEK FOOTWAY If returning from the High School to the town centre the footpath by the bank of the Diamond Creek provides a pleasant route to finish your walk. The creek is a major tributary of the Yarra River. Together with its own major tributaries Arthurs Creek and Running Creek it commences on the southern slopes of the Dividing Range at Kinglake. It gives the name Diamond Valley to an area extending well beyond its actual drainage catchment.Recognition of the significance of various landmarks to the history of the Eltham community as of 1978‘shoestring’, 1978, bridge street cutting, burgoyne store, c.b.a. bank, diamond creek trail, eltham cemetery, eltham central park, eltham community centre, eltham community festival, eltham court house, eltham festival, eltham high school, eltham hotel, eltham lower park, eltham primary school, eltham railway trestle bridge, eltham shire offices, eltham shopping centre, eltham state school no. 209, eltham village, eltham war memorial, falkiner house, heritage trail, hilltop milk bar, jarrold cottage, lands department office, living, living and learning centre, main road bridge, montsalvat, old bakery, our eltham artistic recollections, our lady help of christian’s church, our lady help of christian’s primary school, pitt street, post office, r.s.l. hall, shillinglaw cottage, st margaret’s church, state school residence, stebbing cottage, telephone exchange, uniting church, west house, wingrove cottage, wingrove park, withers house, woolworths -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Book, Northern Metropolitan College of TAFE, Diamond Valley Remembers 1939-1945, 1995
... commemorating the end of World War II. 34 chapters include... commemorating the end of World War II. 34 chapters include ...An Oral History Project - An Australia Remembers New Work Project funded by the Department of Employment, Education and Training. Sponsored by Northern Metropolitan College of TAFE. The Australia Remembers 1945-1995 campaign was a pageant of events commemorating the end of World War II. 34 chapters include reminiscences from 34 men and women mainly from the Watsonia Returned Servicemen's League recording their memories of the war years for the benefit of the [Shire of] Diamond Valley community. This copy is signed by Eleanor Sumner who is also a contributor.This book comprises a collection of unique and individual personal narratives of World War 2, written 50 years after the war and preserved for future generations. The collection is linked through the association of the participants living in the Diamond Valley area in Melbourne's north in 1995.roy hillard, eleanor sumner, bob campbell, dulcie cox, lancelot riky, charles nelson, reg johnson, frank collings, george armstrong, stan ware, lorna mill, ann hewett, reg angwin, ruby talbot, dion hogan, elean dansey, mary keppel, charles baker, elaine grigg, len grigg, kathleen kennedy, arthur dykes, eric wood, frances jensen, mary edwards, frank wilson, harry hewett, mick marks, audrey wass, ian wall, joyce anderson, john grant, jean gee, noel mcintyre, allan dunn, reminscences, oral history, world war 1939-1945, world war 2, ww2, australia remembers, northern metropolitan college of tafe, watsonia, personal narrative, watsonia barracks -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque Australian Staff College Queenscliffe, Australian Staff College Queenscliffe
... At the end of World War II, the Federal Government decided... melbourne At the end of World War II, the Federal Government decided ...At the end of World War II, the Federal Government decided to increase the strength of the post-war Regular Army and Cabinet gave approval for the establishment of a Staff College in Australia. On 27 February 1946, the Staff School (Australia) was re-named the Australian Staff College. Authority was given to raise the College and to locate it at Fort Queenscliff. Because the Fort was not ready for immediate occupation, a temporary home was found for the College, in June 1946, at the School of Infantry, Seymour Victoria. On 26 October 1946, the advance party of the College arrived at Fort Queenscliff and the first staff course to be conducted at the new College began in January 1947. Only in November 1979, after much thought and discussion, was it decided that the Australian Army Staff College would have a permanent home at Fort Queenscliff. On 1 January 1982, the College was renamed the Command and Staff College. This reflected the new aim of the Course which included both command and staff aspects. New support facilities were opened at Crow’s Nest Barracks in 1985 and work began in 1986 on the new instruction block at Fort Queenscliff. On 29 January 1988, the new Military Instructional Facility (MIF) was officially opened by the then Chief of the General Staff (CGS). The MIF features a lecture hall, a model room, syndicate rooms, computer centre, and library. Major rebuilding of the Officers Mess and Mess Accommodation was completed in mid-1990. By December 1996, 1224 officers had graduated from the Command and Staff College. The last course conducted under single service auspices, graduated in December 2000, thus bringing to a close a successful 62 years of Command and Staff College operation. http://www.fortqueenscliff.com.au/page11.htmWooden Plaque 15cm x 13cmAustralian Staff College Queenscliffe -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque 4 Sqn.R.A.A.F. Hospital, R.A.A.F. Hospital
... . World War II saw No 4 Squadron Wirraways deployed to Port.... World War II saw No 4 Squadron Wirraways deployed to Port ...No 4 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps, formed at Point Cook, Victoria, in October 1916. After embarking for England to complete its training, the squadron deployed to France in December 1917. From the outset, No 4 Squadron aircraft regularly engaged the Red Baron's elite 'Flying Circus' and, in spite of their lack of experience, quickly gained the ascendancy over the German squadron. During its brief war service, No 4 Squadron destroyed some 128 enemy aircraft and spawned a total of eleven aces. The squadron's highest scoring airman was Captain Cobby who, in addition to shooting down 29 aircraft, also destroyed 13 observation balloons. World War II saw No 4 Squadron Wirraways deployed to Port Moresby in support of Australian troops fighting in the New Guinea jungles. In their slow and vulnerable aircraft, losses from anti-aircraft fire were high, however, this never deterred the Wirraway crews from completing their assigned tasks. This aggressive spirit was exemplified by Pilot Officer Archer and his crewman, Sergeant Coulston, who, while on a reconnaissance mission, found themselves above a Japanese Zero fighter. Despite operating a vastly inferior aircraft, Pilot Officer Archer dived to the attack and shot down the enemy aircraft. In June 1943, No 4 Squadron received its first Boomerang fighters and continued to support Allied troops during the Cape Gloucester landings before moving to Morotai. No 4 Squadron ended the war in Borneo and returned to Australia in November 1945, where it was renamed No 3 Squadron - thus closing the chapter on a very distinguished and proud unit. Summary of Unit Name(s) Start Date End Date No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 06/06/1966 06/06/1966 No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 03/07/1966 No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 01/08/1966 01/08/1966 No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 05/09/1966 No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 29/09/1966 No. 4 RAAF Hospital, Butterworth 29/10/1966 29/10/1966 http://www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum/research/units/4sqn.htmWooden Plaque 15cm x 13cm with insignia of 4 Sqn.R.A.A.F. Hospital 4 Sqn R.A.A.F. Hospital r.a.a.f. 4 squadron, butterworth, r.a.a.f. hospital -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque H.M.A.S Warramunga, H.M.A.S Warramunga
... War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959... War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959 ...HMAS Warramunga (I44), a Tribal class destroyer commissioned in 1942. The ship fought during the latter half of World War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959, and sold for scrap. HMAS Warramunga (FFH 152), an Anzac class frigate commissioned in 2001 and in active service as of 2012Wooden Plaque 15cm x 13cm with insignia of H.M.A.S Warramunga H.M.A.S Warramunga -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque H.M.A.S Warramunga, H.M.A.S Warramunga
... War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959... War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959 ...HMAS Warramunga (I44), a Tribal class destroyer commissioned in 1942. The ship fought during the latter half of World War II, and in the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1959, and sold for scrap. HMAS Warramunga (FFH 152), an Anzac class frigate commissioned in 2001 and in active service as of 2012Wooden Plaque 15cm x 13cm with insignia of H.M.A.S Warramunga H.M.A.S Warramunga -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque H.M.S. Ark Royal
... that participated in World War II and was sunk by a U-boat in 1941. HMS Ark... that participated in World War II and was sunk by a U-boat in 1941. HMS Ark ...Ark Royal (1587), the flagship of the English fleet during the Spanish Armada campaign of 1588. HMS Ark Royal (1914), merchant ship, converted to an aircraft carrier during World War I HMS Ark Royal (91), British aircraft carrier launched in 1937 that participated in World War II and was sunk by a U-boat in 1941. HMS Ark Royal (R09), an Audacious-class fleet aircraft carrier launched in 1950, decommissioned in 1979 HMS Ark Royal (R07), an Invincible-class aircraft carrier, launched in 1981, decommissioned in 2011Wooden plaque with insignia of H.M.S. Ark Royalh.m.s. ark royal -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
World War II Medals
... World War II Medals... Medal 39-45,Australian Service Medal World War II Medals ...Board with cloth badge and medals Awarded to F.C.Leggett 39-45 Star, Africa Star with 8th Army Bar, Defense Medal, War Medal 39-45,Australian Service Medal -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Key
... During World War II, following the Fall of Singapore... melbourne During World War II, following the Fall of Singapore ...During World War II, following the Fall of Singapore in February 1942, the Japanese military detained about 3,000 civilians in Changi Prison, which was built to house only 600 prisoners. The Japanese used the British Army's Selarang Barracks, near the prison, as a prisoner of war camp, holding some 50,000 Allied—predominantly British and Australian—soldiers.[1] Although POWs were rarely, if ever, held in the civilian prison, the name Changi became synonymous in the UK, Australia, and elsewhere with the POW camp. About 850 POWs died during their internment in Changi during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore,[2] a relatively low rate compared to the overall death rate of 27% for POWs in Japanese camps.[3] However, many more prisoners died after being transferred from Changi to various labour camps outside Singapore, including the Burma Railway and the Sandakan airfield.this item is of historical significance because it is supposedly one of the few surving keys to Changi Jail and donated by Mr.Robertson . Changi is significant as it was a major prison camp during WWII Changi Jail Key. Blackened metal key, Wooden tag attached with Japanese print on it. Kanji Characters read Middle Gatechangi, fall of singapore, key, p.o.w. -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Belt webbing
... introduction in 1937, throughout World War II, and in the post-war... introduction in 1937, throughout World War II, and in the post-war ...The 1937 pattern equipment (also known as '37 webbing') was an item of military load-carrying equipment. Pattern 37 replaced the 1908 Pattern and 1925 Pattern—on which it was based—and was standard issue for British and Commonwealth troops from its introduction in 1937, throughout World War II, and in the post-war period until it was superseded by 58 pattern webbingKhaki webbing army infantry belt with brass clip buckle and brassretainers, also has rear brass buckles for attatchment of webbing straps for "basic pouches" -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Banner / scroll Memory of revisit to Korea, Memory of revisit to Korea
... service in both World War II and Korea, where he received... active service in both World War II and Korea, where he received ...Presented to Sir William Keys (Korean Veteran) After active service in both World War II and Korea, where he received the Military Cross, Sir William served as first, national secretary and then president of the RSL, a position he held for 27 years. (Kerry O'BRIEN 7:30 Report 3/5/2000)Small rayon banner commorating the return visit to Korea by Korean War Veterans. Showing the flags of Nations who participated in the UN operationreturn visit to Korea korean veterans sir william keys -
Ballarat Clarendon College
Book, World War II Honour Roll Ballarat College, 1955
... World War II Honour Roll Ballarat College... members of the forces in World War II. See file attached. The book... members of the forces in World War II. See file attached. The book ...According to the school magazine 'The Minervan December 1954' the book was compiled to honour former students who were members of the forces in World War II. See file attached. The book was displayed in the ballarat College reception area until 2014. In 2013 following research by James Affleck the information contained within the book was updated and a formal honour board created and displayed in Memorial Hall together with the WW2 Pro Patria Roll of Honour. Significant record of WW2 returned service old collegiansLeather covered blank book with gilt writing and border on front cover, plum-coloured page marker ribbon. Pages list handprinted names of WW2 returned soldiers who were past students of Ballarat Collegeworld-war-two, 1955, world-war-two, 1955, roll-of-honour, memorial-hall, old-collegians -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Picture Print, Hurricane, Unknown
... British fighter during the critical early stages of World War II ...The Hawker Hurricane is a British single-seat fighter aircraft of the 1930s–40s that was designed and predominantly built by Hawker Aircraft Ltd. for service with the Royal Air Force (RAF). It was overshadowed in the public consciousness by the Supermarine Spitfire's role during Battle of Britain in 1940, but the Hurricane actually inflicted 60 percent of the losses sustained by the Luftwaffe in the engagement, and it went on to fight in all the major theatres of the Second World War. Url Hurricane.html. The Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIc - LF363, first flew on the 1st January 1944 and is believed to be the last Hurricane to enter service in the RAF. It was in service with 63 squadron and 26 squadron. After hostilities, LF363 was spared the scrap yard and used on various station flights and also appeared in films 'Angels one five', 'Reach for the Sky' and 'The Battle of Britain'. Whilst flying to Jersey in September 1991, LF363 suffered engine problems and had to be diverted to RAF Wittering but on the final approach the aircraft suffered complete engine failure and had to make an emergency landing. The pilot was saved with relative minor injuries (a broken ankle and minor burns) but the aircraft suffered severe damage. Historic Flying Limited completely rebuilt LF363 and by 1998 it was flying again as part of the B.B.M.F. LF363 currently wears the colour scheme of a Mk.I Hurricane of 17 squadron, P3878 'YB-W' which was flown by Flying Office Harold Bird-Wilson at Debden and Tangmere. Harold 'Birdy' Bird-Wilson had previously been badly burned in a pre-war flying accident. Upon his recovery he joined 17 squadron and fought through the 'Battle of France' and the 'Battle of Britain' achieving 6 confirmed kills. On 24th September 1940, 'Birdy' was shot down by Adolf Galland, his 40th 'kill', and had to bale out. 'Birdy' survived the war and when he retired from the RAF he had reached the rank of Vice Marshall and had been awarded the CBE, DSO, DFC & Bar and the AFC & Bar. British single-seat fighter aircraft manufactured by Hawker Aircraft, Ltd., in the 1930s and ’40s. The Hurricane was numerically the most important British fighter during the critical early stages of World War II, sharing victory laurels with the Supermarine Spitfire in the Battle of Britain (1940–41) and the defense of Malta (1941–42). Hurricanes served in all theatres of war where British forces were engaged. https://www.britannica.com/technology/Hurricane-airplane Framed coloured picture print on plastic sheetOn the aircraft are the markings LF 363 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Picture Lancaster Bomber Instrument Panel, Lancaster Bomber Instrument Panel S for Sugar R5868
... and instrument panel in service with R.A.F. during World War II... in service with R.A.F. during World War II. Registration S for Sugar ...Heavy 4 engines Avro-Lancaster Bomber - piIot area and instrument panel in service with R.A.F. during World War II. Registration S for Sugar R5868.World War 2 , heavy 4 engined Bomber Registration Number S for Sugar R5868 maintained at R.A.F. Museum Hendon U.K.Rectangular shaped color print of the interior of a Lancaster Bomber showing the pilots area and aircraft instrument cluster. Rear of the frame is a small strip stating photograph by Tony Watts - title - "After the Battle magazine. Lancaster Cockpit - that of R5868 at the RAF museum, Hendon U.K. Sticker - GEELONG PICTURE FRAMERS - Art Posters . Prints . Framing 70 Ryrie Street, Geelong- Telephone - (052) 29 7805world war two, avro lancaster bomber, r5868 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Framed Picture Print of a Lancaster Bomber
... of World War II. It first saw service in 1941 and became the RAF’s... Bomber was one of the most famous aircraft of World War II ...The Lancaster Bomber was one of the most famous aircraft of World War II. It first saw service in 1941 and became the RAF’s main bomber during the war. The first prototype Lancaster flew in January, 1941. A total of 7,377 Lancasters were made, after the first one rolled off the production line in October, 1941. It carried a crew of 7 and could fly at about 454 kmh. The plane was just over 21 metres long, had a wingspan of 31 metres and a flying range of 4,000 km. The Lancaster was normally armed with 8 Browning machine guns, as well as bombs. Some planes were modified so they could carry the so called Grand Slam bomb, weighing 10,000 kg. During World War II, Lancasters flew over 156,000 sorties, or raids. They dropped over 50 million incendiary bombs and over 608,000 tons of explosive bombs.One of the most famous bombing raids was a 1942 raid on Cologne, Germany. Over 1,000 bombers dropped bombs on the industrial city, destroying over 600 acres. Many Lancaster crew members were given medals for heroic actions while flying. Guy Gibson had flown 170 missions by the age of 24 and was awarded the Victoria Cross. Towards the end of World War II, Lancaster Bombers dropped food into the occupied Netherlands.Rectangular shaped glass covered picture frame with photo print of a Lancaster Bomber.lancaster bomber, ww2, avro, lara r.s.l. british aircraft. -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Posters Honours and Awards, Defence Honours and Awards, circa 2000
... and Post world War II Operational... Honours and Awards World War 1, World War 2 and Post world War II ...Two coloured posters displaying Defence Honours and Awards from World War 1, World War 2 and Post World War 2 Operational. Prepared by the Defence DepartmentA3 PostersDefence Honours and Awards World War 1, World War 2 and Post world War II Operationalww1, ww2, post ww2 medals poster -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Print - Framed print of USS MISSOURI
... of the Empire of Japan, which ended World War II.... of Japan, which ended World War II. Missouri received a total of 11 ...USS Missouri (BB-63) is an Iowa-class battleship and was the third ship of the United States Navy to be named after the U.S. state of Missouri. Missouri was the last battleship commissioned by the United States and is best remembered as the site of the surrender of the Empire of Japan, which ended World War II.Missouri received a total of 11 battle stars for service in World War II, Korea, and the Persian Gulf, and was finally decommissioned on 31 March 1992 after serving a total of 17 years of active service, but remained on the Naval Vessel Register until her name was struck in January 1995. In 1998, she was donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association and became a museum ship at Pearl Harbor.Rectangular shaped glass covered framed print with gold border -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Book - World War II Vol 1-8 Orbis
... World War II Vol 1-8 Orbis...World War II Vol 1-8 orbis... in Magazine format containing 3360 pages 0415 World War II Vol 1-8 ...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 -
Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre
Book, K. O'Reilly, In Just Five Years - 1941 to 1946, Published 2009
... history world war ii... in Nhill during World War II. Details the operational history...Hardback,history of the RAAF & Nhill in World War II 1941... in Nhill during World War II. Details the operational history ...Hardback,history of the RAAF & Nhill in World War II 1941 - 1946, written by Kevin O'Reilly. Front coloured white & blue, photo of Avro Anson Mk1 on front, with emblems of RAAF and Shire of Lowan. Reverse in simlilar colours, with cartoons and 8 small photos. Preface by Chris G Spence AO, Air Vice Marshal (Retd).history world war ii, raaf base nhill, 1941 1946, kevin o reilly, john clarkson, peter isaccson wing commander retd am dfc afc dfm, chris, spence, air vice marshal retd -
Bendigo Military Museum
Newspaper - NEWSPAPER- The Weekend Australia, The Australians killed in action in World War II
... The Australians killed in action in World War II...“THE AUSTRALIANS KILLED IN ACTION IN WORLD WAR II - WHILE... goldfields “THE AUSTRALIANS KILLED IN ACTION IN WORLD WAR II - WHILE ...“THE AUSTRALIANS KILLED IN ACTION IN WORLD WAR II - WHILE SERVING WITH THE NATION’S DEFENCE FORCE “ The commencement and cut off dates/ approved for the Roll of Honour were September 3, 1939 and June 30, 1947Newspaper- copy of newspaper on white paper.All pages with plastic laminate. Black and white print and photograph. Pages 9 - 21. Pages secured with 4 metal split rings,newspaper, history, ww2 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Metal badge, RSL Badge: Life Subscriber
Ronald Leslie Gregory (R/22961) served in the Australian Royal Navy. Born 5th August 1921, he enlisted on the 7th March 1939, and served on the HMAS Kuttabul II. He was discharged in 1948. The LS badge stands for Life Subscriber, and is affixed to the badge upon registration as such. Forms part of a collection of Ronald Leslie's belongings that were donated to the Lara RSL in 2006.An RSL membership badge. It is pre-1960 (because it has 3 x men in the image). A white background, red ribbon, gold image of 3 x returned servce men with a blue background which says: Returned Sailors Soldiers and Airmens". There is a red crown atop the badge which says LS within which is separate and has been affixed. On front: "LS" "Returned Sailors, Soldiers, and Airmens" "Imperial Australia League" REVERSE: "J17213" "Amor Sydney"world war 2, world war two, ww2, wwii, life subscriber, rsl -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, Set 4 photographs. and others for Torquay Light Horse camp, 1940
... mounted soldier hadn’t quite passed. During World War II... mounted soldier hadn’t quite passed. During World War II ...These images capture for all time Light Horsemen travelling through Geelong on their way to camp at Torquay for the last Group meeting in Australia . information following - details obtained from .........https://torquayhistory.com/light-horse-brigade/ On Australia Day, 1997, Sir John Young unveiled this plaque on Point Danger, Torquay. Torquay history, Light Horse Training Camp, WW2 Plaque at Pt. Danger Note----- (See images to view plaque) The plaque identifies a significant event in Torquay’s history and the sentiments of ‘change’ for the Light Horse Brigade – from horses to machines. In 1940 the four Light Horse Regiments (4th, 8th, 13th and 20th), some 5000 Light Horse and 2000 horses camped and trained at Torquay. Three other regiments, formerly mounted on horses, were also at Torquay ‘mounted’ on privately owned trucks and cars. Division troops included Artillery, Engineers, Signals, Field Ambulance and other branches of the Army necessary to enable a Division to function. It wasn’t just the sheer numbers of men coming to this little town that made the event significant, it was also the fact that the men of the Light Horse were dramatic, almost glamorous figures and it is easy to see their exploits as some splendid adventure. Horses have played a special role in the story of Australia. They were the only means of transport across this huge country, so it was necessary for everyone to have the ability to ride a horse. When war broke out in 1899 between Britain and the Boers of South Africa (“Boer” was Dutch for “farmer”) Australia sent troops to fight. At first Britain was wary of using untried, unprofessional colonial cavalrymen but soon saw that the slouch-hatted Australian “bushmen” were a match for the fast-moving and unconventional mounted commandos of the Boers. The Australians proved themselves to be expert rough-riding horsemen and good shots. Bush life had hardened them to go for long periods with little food and water. They also showed remarkable ability to find their way in a strange country and use its features for cover, in both attack and defence. By 1914, when Australia joined the war against Germany, there were 23 Light Horse regiments of militia volunteers. Many men from these units joined the Light Horse regiments of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Men were given remounts (if not using their own horses) – army horses bought by Commonwealth purchasing officers from graziers and breeders. These were called “walers” because they were a New South Wales stockhorse type – strong, great-hearted animals with the strains of the thoroughbred and semi-draught to give them speed, strength and stamina. On 1st November, 1914, Australia’s First Infantry Division and the first four Light Horse regiments sailed for England in a fleet of transport ships. The first of the Light Horse arrived at Gallipoli in May without their horses. Back with their horses after Gallipoli, they were formidable combatants across the Sinai and Palestine. Some British commanders observed that the light horseman moved with a “lazy, slouching gait, like that of a sleepy tiger” but described how the promise of battle “changes that careless gait, into a live athletic swing that takes him over the ground much quicker than other troops”. They had Light Horse, Torquay, training campdeveloped a reputation as formidable infantrymen. The Turks called them “the White Ghurkas” – a reference to their deadly skill with the bayonet. The Arabs called them “The Kings of the Feathers”. The plume had originally been a battle honour of the Queensland Mounted Infantry for their work in the shearer’s strike of 1891. During WW1 it was adopted by almost all the Light Horse Regiments. It was the proud badge of the light horseman. The most famous of their battles was the attack on Beersheba- the charge of the 4th Light Horse Brigade. Mounted infantrymen and their superb walers had carried out one of the most successful cavalry charges in history – against what seemed impossible odds. They surprised the Turks by charging cavalry-style, when they would normally have ridden close to an objective then dismounted to fight. The fall of Beersheba swung the battle tide against the Turks in Palestine; and changed the history of the Middle East. While 19 men from the Surf Coast Shire served with the 4th Light Horse over the course of WW1, only four were involved in the charge of Beersheba- John GAYLARD, Philip QUINN.(Winchelsea); Wallace FINDLAY (Anglesea); Harry TRIGG (Bambra). After the war, Light Horse units played a key role in the Australian Government’s compulsory military training programme. The Citizen Military Forces (C.M.F.) thrived on the glamour of the wartime Light Horse tradition, ignoring the possibility that motor vehicles would soon replace the horses. When training was no longer compulsory, the C.M.F. regiments declined and horses became more of a luxury during the 1930s depression years of poverty and unemployment. Some regiments were motorised. Then, in 1939, Australia joined Britain in another world war. Training was increased for the militia at both home bases and regional training camps. The camp at Torquay in 1940, commanded by Major General Rankin, was at Divisional strength. By the end of the camp some felt that the Division was ready for active service. Gradually, over the next four years, the Australian Light Horse units were mounted on wheels and tracks and the horses were retired. Six men enlisted at the Torquay camp and another 57 men and women enlisted at Torquay for service in WW2. Those who served in the Militia provided valuable Officers and NCOs and men for the armed services during the war. Each infantry division of the 2nd AIF had a Light Horse regiment attached to it. But the day of the Australian mounted soldier hadn’t quite passed. During World War II, Australia’s 6th Cavalry Regiment formed a mounted unit they called “The Kelly Gang” which did valuable scouting work. In New Guinea, a mounted Light Horse Troop did patrol duty and helped carry supplies. Some fully equipped walers were flown into Borneo for reconnaissance in rugged mountain country. But by the end of the war, in 1945, the horse had disappeared from the Australian Army. References: Australian Light Horse Association www.lighthorse.org.au National Australia Archives Australian War Memorial Surf Coast Shire WW1 memorials www.togethertheyserved.com The Light horse- a Cavalry under Canvas Light Horse, Training Camp, Torquay, WW2 Late in 1939 it was decided to set up a Lighthorse training camp in Torquay to train both men and horses for the battles of the Second World War. Horses, men and equipment came on special trains from all over Victoria and NSW, and as you would expect horseman came from areas such as Omeo and Sale, the Wimmera and the Western District. They arrived at the Geelong racecourse for watering in the Barwon River and then were ridden across the ford at the breakwater and began their 11 mile trek to Torquay. Light Horse, Training Camp, Torquay, WW2 Tent city By the end of January 1940 the camp at Torquay accommodated some 5000 men and 2500 horses of the Second Cavalry Division. The rows of horses, tents and huts near Blackgate Road were quite a sight. While the cavalrymen engaged in exercises on the land and on the beaches, many of the troops took over the Torquay School for special training of men and officers. Mr Bob Pettit local farmer and Councillor for the Barrabool Shire, wrote about the Light horse in the Surf Coast Community News in 1985 saying “They used to travel about the district riding four abreast in one long convoy. To my annoyance they went through my property and shut all the gates behind them. I had certain gates open to let stock in to the water holes and it would take me three -quarters of an hour to follow the horsemen up and put all the gates right again” he continued “the men from the Light Horse were here when the fire went through in March 1940. He recalled an incident when early one morning, as some one blew the bugle, a soldier putting a white sheet on the line frightened the horses. They panicked and ran off in all directions. Six went over the cliff near Bird Rock, five were never found, and the rest were gathered up after nearly a fortnight in the bush around Addiscott and Anglesea" Light Horse, Training Camp, Torquay, WW2, Geelong Parade Geelong parade The training camp culminated in a parade through the streets of Geelong on March 12th 1940. The salute was given at the Town Hall and the troops continued on a route to the You Yang’s for a training exercise. Note-----(see media section for photograph) The Camp was abandoned in mid 1940 as it was deemed unsuitable for training during winter and the cost of a permanent camp could not be justified if it could not be used all year. Historic.......Rare,,,Interpretive.Sepia photographs.set of four ....post card size ....Horses &LighthorsemenNo 1, Lighthorsemen Regiment Geelong 1940......No 2 Light Horse at Breakwater Geelong 1938 to 1940....No 3 Light Horse at Breakwater Geelong 1938 to 1940.....No 4 Light Horse crossing Breakwater camped at Geelong Showgrounds. These markings are on reverse of photographs.light horsemengeelong 1940., world war 2 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Service Gear, Puttee
... dress in world war one, briefly in world war II and ceremonial ...A puttee is a cloth band that was wound round a soldier’s leg from their ankle to their knee. They were designed to provide support when walking and protect against harsh weather conditions. Many Australian soldiers developed a painful medical condition during their service on the Western Front called trench foot. The primary causes were wet feet and unsanitary conditions but puttees were also partly to blame as they limited circulation to the lower leg and foot. These puttees are a collectors item, they are the real thing, used in WW1 and made a short return in WW2 and were used as ceremonial dress in Malaysia in the 1960s, these ones are WW2 issue. Used as military dress in world war one, briefly in world war II and ceremonial dress in Malaysia in the 1960'sOlive green wrapping wool mix wrapping 106cm long and q2cm wide with tape 103 cm long 1.5 cm wideNilputtee, leggings world ww1 1 ww2 malaysia cloth bans -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Newspaper, 17th Australian Infantry Brigade, February 22nd 1940
... War I, it did not see any action. Reformed during World War II... action. Reformed during World War II, before being disbanded ...The 17th Australian Infantry Brigade was an infantry brigade in the Australian Army. First formed in 1917 during World War I, it did not see any action. Reformed during World War II, before being disbanded in 1946. Today, its name is perpetuated by the 17th Combat Service Support Brigade, which was raised as a logistics formation in May 2006. The 17th Brigade was reformed on 13 October 1939, again as part of the 6th Division, recruited from Victoria. The 17th Brigade fought in the Western Desert Campaign in Libya, the Battle of Greece, the Battle of Wau, the Salamaua-Lae campaign in Papua, and in the Aitape-Wewak campaign in New Guinea. The photographs are of national significance as they may reflect the only known photographs of individuals from WW2.4 page newspaper pictures of 17th Brigade, Second AIFThe Argus 17th Australian Infantry Brigade, Second AIF, Souvenir Supplement, Thursday, February 22, 1940 Page 1 2/5th Battalion - Picture 1 Officers of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 2 Senior NCO's of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 3 A Company 2/5th Battalion Page 2 B Company 2/5th Battalion; C Company 2/5th Battalion; D Company 2/5th Battalion Page 3 Headquarters 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery; 3rd Battery 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery Page 4 Officers, NCO's and men of 2/2nd Field Company, 6th Divisional Engineers; Officers NCO's and men 2/2nd Field Ambulance and 2/2nd Australian General Hospital 6th Divisional Australian Army Medical Corpsaif, army, 17th brigade, second aif, 2/5th battalion, australian army, australian infantry brigade, 2/2nd field aumbulance, 2/2nd australian general hospital, 6th divisional australian army medical corps, 6th divisional engineers -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Money, Military Payment Certificates, 1964
... after the end of World War II until a few months after the end... or another from a few months after the end of World War II until ...Military payment certificates, or MPC, was a form of currency used to pay U.S. military personnel in certain foreign countries. It was used in one area or another from a few months after the end of World War II until a few months after the end of U.S. participation in the Vietnam War – from 1946 until 1973. MPC utilized layers of line lithography to create colorful banknotes that could be produced cheaply. Fifteen series of MPCs were created. However, only 13 series were issued. The remaining two were largely destroyed, although some examples remain. Among the 13 released series a total of 94 notes are recognized.The 5 cent note is purple, The 10 cent note is green, the 25 cent note is red and the dollar note is mauve. Each contain a picture of a female with series 641.Both front and back of the notes is the wording "For use only in United States military establishments, by United States authorized personal in accordance with applicable rules and regulations."money, united states, usa, vietnam, military payment certificates, 1 dollar, 10 cents, 5 cents, 25 cents, currency, 1964 -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Book, Nautical Press, HMAS Melbourne 25 Years
... as HMS Majestic (R77) in February 1945. At the end of World War.... At the end of World War II, work on the ship was suspended until she ...HMAS Melbourne (R21) was a Majestic-class light aircraft carrier of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). Operating from 1955 until 1982, she was the third and final conventional aircraft carrier to serve in the RAN. Melbourne was the only British Commonwealth naval vessel to sink two friendly warships in peacetime collisions. The ship was laid down for the British Royal Navy as the lead ship of the Majestic class in April 1943, and was launched as HMS Majestic (R77) in February 1945. At the end of World War II, work on the ship was suspended until she was purchased by the RAN in 1947. At the time of purchase, it was decided to incorporate new aircraft carrier technologies into the design, making Melbourne the third ship to be constructed with an angled flight deck. Delays in construction and integrating the enhancements meant that the carrier was not commissioned until 1955. Melbourne never fired a shot in anger during her career, having only peripheral, non-combat roles in relation to the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation and the Vietnam War. However, she was involved in two major collisions with allied vessels. On the evening of 10 February 1964, Melbourne collided with and sank HMAS Voyager when the Daring class destroyer altered course across her bow. Eighty-two of Voyager's crew were killed, and two Royal Commissions were held to investigate the incident. The second collision occurred in the early morning of 3 June 1969, when Melbourne collided with and sank the Allen M. Sumner class destroyer USS Frank E. Evans in similar circumstances. Seventy-four United States Navy (USN) personnel died, and a joint USN–RAN Board of Inquiry was held. These incidents, along with several minor collisions, shipboard accidents, and aircraft losses, led to the reputation that Melbourne was jinxed. Melbourne was paid off from RAN service in 1982. A proposal to convert her for use as a floating casino failed, and a 1984 sale was cancelled, before she was sold in 1985 and towed to China for breaking. The scrapping was delayed so Melbourne could be studied by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) as part of a secret project to develop a Chinese aircraft carrier and used to train PLAN aviators in carrier flight operations. HMAS Melbourne was decommissioned on 30 June 1982, having spent 62,036 hours underway and having steamed 868,893 nautical miles. A proposal to convert her for use as a floating casino failed, and a 1984 sale was cancelled, before she was sold for scrap in 1985 and towed to China for breaking. The scrapping was delayed so Melbourne could be studied by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) as part of a secret project to develop a Chinese aircraft carrier and used to train PLAN aviators in carrier flight operations.The pictorial history of HMAS Melbourne with rare photos. Now a scarce title and highly desirable title that is now long out of print. Has provenance history of all ships movements from 1955 till decommissioned.HMAS Melbourne 25 YearsOn the front page is a picture of HMAS Melbourne with the words at top "H.M.A.S. Melbourne. At bottom are the words in orange, '25 Years'. In white, are the words 'by Ross Gillett' then 'Forward by Rear Admiral G.G.O. Gatacre C.B.E. DSO. DSC & Bar, RAN'. On the rear page is a list of all the Captains that served on the HMAS Melbourne between 1955-1980.hmas melbourne, aircraft carrier, royal australian navy, australian navy, westland whirlwind, sea venom, fairy gannet, bristol sycamore, westland wessex, douglas skyhawk, grumman tracker, westland sea king, fleet air arm, hmas albatross, nowra