Townsville War Maritime Efforts Recognised
The Maritime Museum of Townsville is set to unveil a new memorial plaque to recognise the maritime efforts of the region.
HMAS Magnetic was a naval depot erected along Townsville’s coastline in 1942, which made a significant contribution to the allied war efforts in World War II.
The Maritime Museum were the successful recipient of the Federal Government’s Saluting their Service Grant, which enabled them to erect a commemorative plaque in ANZAC Memorial Park on the Strand.
Shadow Assistant Minister for Defence and Federal Member for Herbert, Phillip Thompson was the first to support the Museum’s application for funding to have the memorial plaque instated.
“This facility was erected right in the crux of World War 2, at a time when Japanese forces were advancing on our border,” Mr Thompson said.
“A presence like HMAS Magnetic was vital to ensure our defence capability and the facility certainly contributed to building the foundations of what now sees Townsville as the largest Garrison city and the Army Capital of Australia.”
Managing Curator of the Maritime Museum of Townsville Robert de Jong and the Maritime Museum Team were excited to jump at the opportunity to tell the HMAS Magnetic story.
“We are always surprised when we find that so few know of the HMAS Magnetic,” Dr de Jong said.
“Not only will we have the memorial plaque, but the museum will hold a standing exhibition to showcase additional details of the fascinating story.”
Mr Thompson has been donned with the honour of unveiling the memorial plaque in a commemorative ceremony held on Tuesday.
“Memorials like this are a reminder of those who not only sacrificed their lives, but also the significance of the facilities which enabled our defence capability”.
“It truly is an honour to be involved in providing HMAS Magnetic a permanent place in its rightful home in ANZAC Park.”
ENDS