10 the search for hmas sydney 10.pdfhighest military plane by direct meetings between the chiefs of...

The Loss of HMAS SYDNEY II 105

10 The search for HMAS SYDNEY

The command structure in November 1941

10.1 In order to understand the initial search conducted for HMAS SYDNEY and the communications passing between different groups during the search, it is necessary to understand the hierarchical structure of command operating in November 1941.

10.2 On 15 September 1939 the Full Cabinet of the Commonwealth Government announced the formation of a War Cabinet.1 Approved on 26 September 1939, the War Cabinet had the task of dealing with all matters relating to the conduct of the war—apart from matters of major policy, which were to be dealt with by the Full Cabinet. The Chiefs of Staff of the three armed services were invited to attend the War Cabinet in an advisory capacity and frequently did.2

10.3 In February 1941 the War Cabinet gave approval for the establishment of the Central War Room, based at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne.3 The function of the Central War Room was ‘the control of operations on the highest military plane by direct meetings between the Chiefs of Staff or their deputies’.4 What were previously decisions of the Chiefs of Staff Committee were thereafter considered decisions of the Central War Room, in which the three chiefs of staff had their operational staff pooled.

Also established on 27 February 1941 were the following:

• the Combined Operational Intelligence Centre, based in Melbourne

• Combined Defence Headquarters5

• four area combined headquarters (ACH)

– South Western Area (SWACH), based at Fremantle

– South Eastern Area (SEACH), based at Melbourne

1 PUB.043.0001 at 0003 2 PUB.043.0001 at 0003 3 PUB.016.0001 at 0422 4 PUB.016.0001 at 0422 5 Combined Defence Headquarters was established to counter any enemy attack at defended ports.

http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/PUB.043.0001.pdf




106 The Loss of HMAS SYDNEY II

– North Eastern Area (NEACH), based initially at Port Moresby, then at Townsville

– North Western Area (NWACH), based at Darwin.

The function of each area combined headquarters was to ensure Naval and air cooperation in trade defence in their focal area.6

10.4 For maritime operations off the Western Australian coast, the Central War Room gave orders to SWACH, which had operational control over military assets such as RAAF PEARCE and Naval vessels in that area. SWACH had operational control over these assets during combined operations, but administrative control remained with the individual service, and the individual services retained their own command structure.

10.5 It is useful to identify these command structures for the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force. For the Navy, the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board, often referred to as the Naval Board, was responsible to the Commonwealth Government for Australia’s maritime defence and the protection of trade.7 It consisted of the Minister for the Navy (at the outbreak of war, the Minister for Defence); the First Naval Member, who was also Chief of Naval Staff; the Second Naval Member; and a finance and civil member.8 The Naval Board had administrative control over all RAN vessels and had operational control of Naval vessels in Australian waters, unless such control passed to an area combined headquarters.9 The Naval Board also had control over the two main establishments—Flinders Naval Depot near Melbourne and Sydney Naval Base—and seven Naval districts.10

Each of the six states of Australia and the Northern Territory was a Naval district, and each was under the direction of a District Naval Officer (DNO), who had a small staff and headquarters in the port of the capital city.11 As far as Naval interests were concerned, each DNO was responsible for the coastline of his district, the efficiency of the district’s signal station for Naval purposes, examination services at defended ports, assisting visiting Naval vessels, cooperating with other services, intelligence, recruiting, and the training of local Naval

6 PUB.016.0001 at 0422 7 PUB.042.0001 at 0150 8 PUB.016.0001 at 0053 9 PUB.042.0001 at 0151 10 PUB.016.0001 at 0053 11 PUB.016.0001 at 0053








reserves.12 In November 1941 the DNO Western Australia was CAPT Charles Farquhar-Smith RAN.

10.6 In the case of the RAAF, the Chief of Air Staff presided over the Air Board. Like the RAN, the RAAF had a concept of local districts, for each of which there was a local commanding officer.13 In November 1941 Western Australia was known as Western Area. Headquarters Western Area was under the control of the Western Area Commander, Air Commodore HF De La Rue DFC.

There were two RAAF flying establishments in Western Area Command in November 1941—RAAF PEARCE, near Perth, and No. 4 Service Flying Training School, based at Geraldton. PEARCE was the base for No. 14 Squadron (Hudsons) and No. 25 Squadron (Wirraways); No. 4 Service Flying Training School had training aircraft (mostly Ansons, Oxfords and two Fairey battle aircraft for target towing).14

10.7 The effect of these various command systems was that in November 1941 the following applied:

• SYDNEY was under the operational control of the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board while on the Australia Station.

• The air and Naval units involved in the search were under the operational control of SWACH, which was responsible to the Central War Room.

• Orders in respect of the search were given by SWACH (or the Central War Room through SWACH) and passed to individual units—although orders tended to be passed through the respective commands, the District Naval Officer Western Australia for Naval operations and Headquarters Western Area Command for air operations.

• The RAN and the RAAF still had administrative control over the RAN and RAAF units involved in the search and so passed orders to and expected reports back from their units. Thus, while RAAF and RAN units might have been receiving orders from SWACH, they might also have been receiving orders from the Air Board (or Headquarters Western Area) and the Naval Board (or the District Naval Officer Western Australia) respectively.

12 PUB.016.0001 at 0054 13 PUB.067.0001 at 0092 14 PUB.072.0001 at 0015 and 0096





Chronology of the search

10.8 At 1426H15 on 10 November 1941 SYDNEY signalled the Naval Board, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron and the District Naval Officer Western Australia, ‘Intend to return direct to Fremantle from Bar. E.T.A. P.M. Wednesday 19th or AM Thursday 20th November’.16

On 11 November 1941 at 1226H she signalled the parties again: ‘Amend E.T.A. to P.M. Thursday’.17

SYDNEY was thus expected in the afternoon of Thursday 20 November. Her failure to arrive at that time resulted in an extensive sea and air search. The signals and other records reveal the rising concern for SYDNEY, the mounting of the search, its extent and its results. They also show the communications between the Naval Board, the Admiralty, Commander-in-Chief China and Commander-in-Chief Dutch East Indies. Additionally, they show the emerging account of the battle, as understood by those interviewing some mainly unidentified KORMORAN survivors.

A chronology of the search follows. With the exception of the shipping intelligence messages dealt with in Chapter 5, all known signals to SYDNEY, from the time she departed Fremantle on 11 November 1941 at 1340H until 29 November, when the search was abandoned, are included. No signals were received from SYDNEY after she sailed on 11 November 1941.18 Signals alleged to have been sent by SYDNEY are discussed in Volume 3.

Tuesday 11 November

No time Entry in the ‘Daily ship movements’ log in Navy Office: ‘SYDNEY: Fremantle – Anticipates departing today escorting “Zealandia” – Returns P.M. 19th Nov or A.M. 20th Nov’.19

0859H The Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron signalled SYDNEY: ‘My 0640 29th reference should read your 67/317 of 5th Sept.1941’.20

15 All times are Western Australian time (H), which is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (Z). 16 SPC.006.0001 17 SPC.006.0002 18 SPC.004.0004 at 0005 19 SPC.004.0004 20 NAA.111.0073

http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/SPC.006.0001.pdf




http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/NAA.111.0073.pdf


0935H SYDNEY signalled the Naval Board: ‘(A) 23477 repetition 23477 to “Leeuwin” A.M. 11th. November 1941 for discharge shore vide N.O. 64004’.21

1222H SYDNEY signalled C-in-C China, the Naval Board, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron and DNOWA: ‘My 0317 10th. Owing to further delay propose/revert to rendezvous E N in position 007° 15’ South 104° 40’ East at 0001 Z Monday 17th November steering 000° repetition 0001 Z/17’.22

1226H SYDNEY signalled the Naval Board, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron and DNOWA: ‘My 0629 9th. Amend E.T.A. To P.M. Thursday’.23

1330H SYDNEY signalled the Naval Board: ‘Engineer-Lieut. Anderson and paymaster sub-lieut. C. Mitchel joined 9th November’.24

1332H SYDNEY signalled the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron: ‘Your 0640/29/? 10(A) No (B) ships. (0640/29/10 not held in C. Room) H of N’.25

1552H The Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney) signalled SYDNEY: ‘Request information whether bulkhead fuse transmission unit number 48 for high angle control system table is on board’.26

1705H C-in-C China signalled SYDNEY: ‘Your 0422 November 11 received(?) and understood’.27

Wednesday, 12 November

0906H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY: ‘Your A.S.165, NO.22355 shows six engineroom ratings received Ex “LEEUWIN” 30/10 movements not reported by signal. Attention drawn necessity for strict compliance provisions Navy order 156 of 1941’.28

21 NAA.111.0074 22 NAA.111.0075 23 SPC.006.0002 24 NAA.111.0077 25 NAA.111.0078 26 NAA.111.0079 27 NAA.111.0080 28 NAA.111.0087










1111H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY, C-in-C China, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron, DNOWA and ‘RA MALAYA’: ‘Assume China Station W/T organisation at 1500Z/15 and resume Australia W/T organisation at 2330Z/17. Additional watch on 3835 kc/s is to be kept four hours before reaching rendezvous and is to be maintained until two hours after parting company’.29

1145H LEEUWIN signalled SYDNEY: ‘Stoker P. Staveley O.N. 23011 and Stoker L.W. Roberts O.N. 23288 Discharged RUN Ex H.M.A.S. “Sydney” 31st. October 1941 Recovered 11th November 1941 Sentenced 60 Days Detention’.30

Thursday 13 November

1121H C-in-C China signalled HMS DURBAN, ‘Commodore Malaya’, the Naval Board and SYDNEY:

Sail as requisite PM Friday 14th November and proceed to relive H.M.A.S. “Sydney” as escort “Zealandia” (Brit) in position 007°15’ SOUTH(?) 104°40’ East at 0001/17 REPEATED (?) 007°15’ South 104°40’ East 0001/17. Thence Singapore.

2. Set additional watch (?) on 3835 KC/S 4 hour before time of rendezvous and maintain until 2 hours after parting company.31

1209H The Naval Officer Commanding Flinders Naval Depot signalled HMAS SYDNEY: ‘R.A.N. ratings appropriated H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” to “CERBERUS” for officers training course 20th November at the latest. Acting Able Seaman Rees Ordinary Seamen Edenborough Farrand Rudall Sivey Wilson Signalman Cox’.32

29 NAA.074.0116 30 SPC.004.0003 31 SPC.004.0002 32 NAA.111.0081






Friday 14 November

1126H The Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron signalled HMA Ships AUSTRALIA, CANBERRA, PERTH, WESTRALIA, MANOORA and SYDNEY:

Following has been received Rathmine Increase all pay respecting Air Force personnel by 1 shilling per day effective on 6th November. Not repetition not subject to exchange allowance 1 shilling only to be added. Minimum allotment officers now 5 shillings and 6 pence and airmen 3 shillings 6 pence. Where necessary increase allotment required commence 6th November.33

1407H DNOWA signalled SYDNEY: ‘Request statement of accounts Ordinary Seaman R.M. Macdonald O.N. 23477 for period borne be forwarded to Navy Office’.34

1547H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY: ‘For Leading Seaman S.R. Davis begins: son born both well. D. Neave. Ends’.35

1908H SYDNEY signalled the Naval Board: ‘For Gunner F.L. Macdonald Begins All Well News From Leggett Mother 4/11 Ends’.36

2044H The Naval Board signalled AIG 10337 and the New Zealand Naval Board:

Correction No.65 to Appendix III A.C.B. 0106 and correction to No.14 to A.C.B. 214 read in four columns:

Appendix III A.C.B. 214 Name Nationality 4010 0449 Collingsworth U.S.A. 2523 1543 Pennant U.S.A.38

33 NAA.111.0082 34 NAA.111.0083 35 NAA.074.0149 36 BATT.006.0131 37 AIG 103 was a group code for signals from the Naval Board to senior officers HMA Squadron, all Naval officers in command and HMA Ships (major war vessels): NAA.109.0107 at 0109 38 NAA.111.0084




http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/BATT.006.0131.pdf




Saturday 15 November

1143H The Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney) signalled SYDNEY, the Naval Board, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron and DNOWA: ‘My 0854 13th Not to(?) HMAS SYDNEY(?) and D.N.O.W.A. director aiming camera despatched passenger train 14th in case SY 20 13 consigned to D.N.O.W.A. (Camera for “SYDNEY”)’.39

Monday 17 November

0724H The Admiralty signalled an extensive list: ‘Admiralty message 1310/2/3/40, paragraph B, add sub-section (iii) “Where a vessel is definitely identified as an enemy merchant vessel, anti scuttling action may be taken as authorized in Admiralty general message 771 A of 4th Nov. 1941’.40

1713H The Naval Board signalled all HMA Ships, the Chief of Intelligence Staff, the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron, DNOWA, and the Naval Officers in Charge Darwin and Townsville:

Dispositions of warships 17th November. H.M.A. Ships “PERTH” “ADELAIDE” “MANOORA” “VOYAGER” and free French light cruiser “LE TRIOMPHANT” at Sydney. H.M.A.S. “CANBERRA” departed Fremantle 16th November for Sydney. H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” departed Fremantle 11th November on escort duties. H.M.A.S. “WESTRALIA” departed Thursday Island 14th November westward on patrol. H.M.A.S. “BUNGAREE” Port Phillip. H.M.A.S. “STUART” at Melbourne. Netherlands cruiser “JAVA” and tanker “PENDOPO” departed Suva 11th November for Sourabaya.41

Tuesday 18 November

Unknown Admiralty 0024A/17 (anti scuttling action) passed to A.I.G. 103 207F.42

39 NAA.111.0085 40 NAA.010.0162 41 NAA.107.0006 at 0016 42 NAA.010.0161






1441H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY: ‘For Supply Assistant Mitchell begins. Pat Bendiga died suddenly Joe ends’43

2111H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY: ‘Ampoules of Percaine Ciba issued you from medical store are not to be used but should be returned to store. M.D.S.O. to issue equivalent quantity in lieu’.44

2258H The Naval Board signalled AIG 103:

Correction No.67 to A.C.B. 0106 Appendix III and No.16 to A.C.B. 214.

1880 0895 JAPARA 3323 Tons gross Dutch.

Against JAPARA (1877 and 0881 respectively) insert “9312 tons gross”.45

Wednesday 19 November

1745H ‘“Aquitania” (Brit.) left Singapore 19 November due in Sydney 1130(H), 28 November.’46

1803H Tug UCO heard a corrupted QQQQ signal but did not immediately report it.47

1809H The Naval Board signalled AIG 103:

U.S.A. ship “CAPILLO” sighted a vessel acting suspiciously 1900Z/6 in latitude 003°20’ South 177°32’ East. Description apparently 12,000 ton cargo motor vessel grey hull buff super structure one short and broad buff funnel amidships maier bow cruiser stern two masts three sets samson posts (two forward on bridge on aft of superstructure) apparently new ship flush deck poop house surmounting one 6 inch and two smaller guns. Fitted for paravanes similar to “Reichenfels” type.48

43 NAA.107.0020 at 0032 44 NAA.107.0020 at 0028 45 NAA.110.0322 at 0352 46 SPC.006.0006 47 SPC.004.0027 48 AWM.003.0215






http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/AWM.003.0215.pdf



0938H The Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron sent a message to seven ships, among them SYDNEY49, about signal letters for HMAS PLATYPUS.

1231H DNOWA signalled SYDNEY: ‘N.B. 0748 31st October “DUNTROON” is only suitable ship and will sail for Adelaide at approximately 1600Z 21st. (Apparently wrong reference has been quoted by D.N.O.W.A.)’.50

1927H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY: ‘For LDG. STO. G. Standish begins Grandma died 19th mother ends’.51

Friday 21 November

0940H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board and HMAS SYDNEY, referring to SYDNEY’s message of 11 November: ‘H.M.A.S. Sydney 0426 11 H.M.A.S. Sydney has not yet arrived’.52


No time A telephone conversation occurred between DNOWA and Navy Office. DNOWA reported that ZEALANDIA was ‘a day late arriving at Singapore’.53

0931H DNOWA signalled SYDNEY: ‘My 0916 6th Sweep (100%) completed. Nothing discovered. “GUNBAR” will depart from Albany A.M. Sunday 23rd November for Fremantle. (Reference should be to 0912Z/6) (Search for object struck by “KATOOMBA’s” parvane off Albany 2nd Sept.) (Extract given to D.O.T.M.)’.54

49 SPC.007.0034 50 SPC.007.0033 51 NAA.110.0474 at 0539 52 NAA.026.0469 53 SPC.004.0254 at 0257 54 SPC.006.0008








Sunday 23 November

0600H AQUITANIA sighted a life raft at 24°35’S 110°57’E containing 26 Germans, who were recovered. She did not, however, report this, maintained wireless silence, and continued south on her journey to eastern Australia.55

1854H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY, ‘Report E.T.A. Fremantle’.56

2236H The Naval Board signalled SYDNEY and DNOWA, ‘Report your E.T.A. at Fremantle by W/T via a commercial W/T station on 500 M/S and on 6610 M/S’.57

2333H The Naval Board signalled C-in-C China Station: ‘Request time and position in which H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” parted company with H.M.S. “Durban” after handing over “ZEALANDIA”’.58

PM There was further telephone discussion between DNOWA and the Naval Board. The Naval Board decided there would be an air search the next morning on the assumption ‘that SYDNEY had had engine trouble and did not wish to break W/T silence’.59

Monday 24 November

0105H SWACH directed PEARCE to ‘search between the bearings 270° to 340° to a depth of 300 miles datum point Rottnest Island search to commence 0001Z [0801H]. Object locate H.M.A.S. “Sydney’. The signal was also sent to SYDNEY and the Central War Room.60

0214H Six RAAF Hudson bombers from No. 14 Squadron PEARCE were ordered to begin searching at 0800 along SYDNEY’s probable route. The order said: ‘Object locate “HMAS Sydney”’.61

55 SPC.004.0254 at 0258 56 NAA.074.0166 57 NAA.040.0466 58 NAA.074.0160 59 WAM.063.0031 at 0034 60 NAA.026.0467; NAA.016.0001 at 0046 61 AWM.005.0197 at 0200





http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/WAM.063.0031.pdf





0800H RAAF Hudsons began searching to a depth of 300 miles between west and north-west of Rottnest Island.62

0834H The Naval Board instructed COONAWARRA W/T station (near Darwin) to call SYDNEY at intervals using the direct method.63 Perth Radio was also instructed to call SYDNEY.64

0841H The Naval Board instructed DNOWA to ‘Instruct Perth radio to call “SYDNEY” by direct method at intervals using group frequencies and also on 500 KC/s. Use war W/T call sign’.65

1009H The Naval Board signalled C-in-C China Station: ‘‘SYDNEY’ is apparently 36 hours overdue at Fremantle. Direct and ‘I’ method have been used to communicate with her. Have you any information’.66

1212H SWACH instructed PEARCE, with a copy to the Central War Room, to ‘Search within geographical bearings 262 degrees to 337 degrees from position 28°00’S 114°10’E to a depth of 300 miles. Search to commence at 0001Z [0801H]. Object locate H.M.A.S. Sydney’.67

1251H C-in-C China Station signalled the Naval Board, ‘Your 1533 23rd and your 0209 24th. 007°56’ south 104°40’ east at 0400 17th. No further information’.68 (This was a response to the Naval Board’s signal at 2333H on 23 November, asking the time and position that SYDNEY parted with DURBAN.)

1332H SWACH signalled ‘CWR repeat Pearce: P1/24 Completed and negative 0510Z/24 Search conditions good = 0532Z’.69

1332H A signal is sent to AIG 103 222F: ‘My 1009Z/19 vessel sighted by CAPILLO was probably Raider “G” Number 41 (believed to be STEIERMARK of HAPAG LINE) …’70

62 SPC.004.0254 at 0257 63 NAA.026.0463 64 NAA.026.0464 65 NAA.074.0182 66 NAA.040.0461 67 SPC.006.0012 68 NAA.026.0459 69 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 70 NAA.074.0181











1417H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China and C-in-C East Indies, ‘H.M.A.S. Sydney left position 007°56’S 104°40’E at 0400Z Monday 17th for Fremantle due Thursday 20th. SYDNEY not yet arrived. C.Z.M. has been asked to search area South of Sunda Strait by air …’71

1445H The Naval Board signalled C-in-C Netherlands East Indies Naval Forces:

H.M.A.S. SYDNEY departed R.V. [rendezvous] 7°56’S 104°40’E at 0400Z [1200H] Monday 17th for Fremantle due Thursday 20th. SYDNEY not yet arrived. Request air search as far as possible to cover probable line of advance. Efforts to establish W.T. communications have been unsuccessful …72

1500H C-in-C China received a message from SS TROCAS: ‘Picked up twenty five German naval men raft floating require guards immediately. Position 024°06’S, 111°40’E’.73

1616H C-in-C China advised the Naval Board of the message received at 1500H from SS NY ROCA (TROCAS): ‘Picked up 25 German naval men floating raft require guards immediately position 024°06’ south, 111°40’ east’.74

1641H The Naval Board instructed COONAWARRA, HARMAN and DNOWA, ‘W/T Stations to cease calling H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY”. D.N.O.W.A. inform Perth radio’.75

1700H The Central War Room directed ACH Townsville and ACH Fremantle to ‘despatch immediately to Fremantle two Catalinas for reconnaissance Indian Ocean. Well trained crews required. Aircraft to come under A.O.C. Western Area’.76

71 NAA.070.0251 72 SPC.006.0013 73 SPC.006.0020 74 SPC.006.0014 75 NAA.040.0450 76 SPC.006.0015








1740H The Central War Room directed ACH Fremantle to conduct air searches starting at daylight on 25 November in specified areas seaward of Geraldton and Carnarvon. The aircraft were to fly on parallel tracks from the datum lines. The message concluded: ‘Searches locate H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” or ship’s boats. If visibility under 10 miles reduce with searches to ensure complete cover. Seven aircraft each search. One standby Carnarvon. Advise results’.77

1852H The Naval Board signalled TROCAS to ‘Report by W/T details of engagement and name of ship from which survivors were rescued’.78

The Naval Board asked DNOWA to pass this message to TROCAS: ‘Request for report on details of engagement and name of ship from which survivors received’.

DNOWA advised the Naval Board at 2340 that the message had been passed on.79

1900H The SWACH log records, ‘Despatch immediately to Fremantle of two Catalinas for reconnaissance and a telephone message from ACNS [Assistant Chief of Naval Staff] advising tanker “Trocas” had picked up 25 German naval ratings on a raft in position 24°06’S 111°40’E 24/11’.80

1957H The Naval Board signalled PAN EUROPE, SAIDJA, HERSTEIN, SUNETTA and CENTAUR to ‘Pass through position 24 degrees 06 minutes S, 111 degrees 40 minutes N. Keep lookout for survivors’.81

2014H The Naval Board signalled HERMION, ‘Proceed with all despatch to position 24 degrees 06 minutes south, 111 degrees 40 minutes east and pick up survivors. Break W/T silence to report situation’.82

77 SPC.006.0016 78 NAA.026.0446 79 SPC.006.0022 80 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 81 NAA.026.0445 82 NAA.026.0444








2110H The SWACH log records:

Received signal CWR 249 24/11 from CWR = Cancel your 27 24/11. SNA TFAB 1048 NEGK 0430 NTFV 5053 2T2P 0000 daylight 25/11. Parallel track from datum TFAB 1048 NEGK 0430 landing Carnarvon. SNA NTFV 5053 VDLL 0028 KMVJ 0700 ZTZF 0000PM 25/11. Parallel track from datum WAFV 5053 272F 0000 returning Carnarvon. Object searches locate “HMAS Sydney” or ships boats. If visibility under 10 miles reduce width searches to ensure complete cover. Seven aircraft each search. On standby Carnarvon. Advise results. Acknowledge = 0900Z/24.83

2112H The Naval Board signalled the CZM:

British Tanker TROCAS picked up 25 German naval men floating on raft in position 24 degrees 06 minutes south, 111 degrees 40 minutes east, about 0700Z/24 [1500H]. Consider connected H.M.A.S. SYDNEY. Please cancel air search. Necessary action will be taken from Australia.84

2120H The Central War Room signalled SWACH, ‘Object H.M.A.S. SYDNEY and ships boats. Further action to be conditioned by results morning search and any later intelligence. Further action to be determined by you’.85

2120H The Central War Room signalled SWACH:

Cancel my C249 24 Nov. Intelligence. 25 German naval men rescued from raft by TROCAS 24 Nov. In position 024 degrees 06 min south 111 degrees 40 mins. east. Appreciate that action in which SYDNEY may have been involved took place approximately 19/11 in approx. position 25 deg south 110 deg 20 mins east. Norwegian S.S. HERMION has been ordered to close position with all despatch and will be in the area 0600H 25 Nov. PAN EUROPE, SAIJA MERSTEIN, SUNETTA and CENTAUR have been ordered pass through position 24 deg 06 mins south 111 40 east repeat 24 deg 06 mins south 111 deg 40 east keeping lookout for survivors. Two naval auxiliaries proceeding from Fremantle. Search area bounded by lines joining following positions. 28 deg. 50 mins south 114 deg 48 mins east 29 deg 56 mins south 112 deg 30 mins east 24

83 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 84 NAA.040.0442 85 SPC.007.0006





deg 10 mins south 108 deg 53 mins east 23 degs 00 mins south 111 deg 00 mins east daylight 25 Nov. Parallel tracks from datum 28 degrees 50 mins south 114 deg. 48 mins east 29 deg 56 mins south 112 deg 30 mins east. On completion search aircraft proceed to coast on parallel tracks 100 deg true and thence Carnarvon.86


Signalled Pearce = Cancel my 0214 Z/24. P1/25 – SNA TFAB 1048 – NEGK 0430 – WTFV 5053 – Z7ZF 0000 – 2100 Z/24. Parallel track from WTFV 5053 – ZTZF 0000 returning Carnarvon. Object locate H.M.A.S. “Sydney” or ships boats. Acknowledge = 1330 Z/2487


Signalled Pearce = P2/25 - SNA – WTFV 5053 – VDLL 0028 KMVJ 0700 – ZTZF 0000 – 0500 Z/25. Parallel track from datum NTFV 5053 – ZTZF 0000 returning Carnarvon. Object locate HMAS Sydney or ships boats. If visibility under 10 miles reduce field of search to ensure complete cover. Seven aircraft to be used. Acknowledge = 1340Z/2488

2141H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce. My 1330Z/24. Insert. If visibility under ten miles reduce width of search to ensure complete cover. Seven aircraft to be used. One standby Carnarvon – 1341Z/24’.89

2232H C-in-C China advised the Admiralty and the Naval Board of the message received from TROCAS at 1500H.90

2247H C-in-C China advised the Naval Board that DURBAN ‘… reports she could not obtain communication with H.M.A.S. SYDNEY(?) on 3835 K/Cs …’91

86 NAA.040.0440 87 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 88 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 89 NAA.016.0001 at 0047 90 SPC.006.0020 91 NAA.040.0435; K/Cs is kilocycles








Tuesday 25 November

All day Air searches:

• An area some 180 miles wide by 400 miles long running parallel to the coast northward from Geraldton and including the position of the raft picked up by TROCAS was searched. Seven Hudsons were used and landed at Carnarvon.

• The same area was searched in the reverse direction, with the object of locating survivors and also locating TROCAS, whose movements were unknown. Subsequently TROCAS reported her movements and the aircraft cut short their search to the southward and returned to Carnarvon.

• Wirraways searched along the coast from Geraldton to North-West Cape.92


Received C.250 24/11 from CWR. = Cancel my C249 24/11 Intelligence. German naval men rescued from raft by “Trocas” 24/11 in position 24°40’S 111°40’E. Appreciate that action in which “Sydney” may have been involved took place approximately 19/11 in approximate position 25°S 110°20’E. Norwegian SS “Hermione” has been ordered to close position with all despatch. Will be in the area 0600H repeat H 25/11. “Pan Europe”, “Saija”, “Herstein”, “Sunetta” & “Centaur” have been ordered pass through position 24°06’S 111°40’E. Keeping lookout for survivors. Two naval auxiliaries proceeding from Fremantle. Search area bounded by lines joining following positions 28°50’S 114°48’E - 29°56’ S 112°50’E - 24°10’S 108°59’E - 23°00’S 111°00’E daylight 25/11. Parallel tracks from datum 28°50’S - 114°48’E 29°36’S 112°30’E. On completion search aircraft proceed to coast on parallel tracks 100°7 and thence Carnarvon. Object H.M.A.S. “Sydney” and ships boats. Further action to be conditioned by results morning search and any later intelligence. Further action to be determined by you. = 1320Z/24.93

92 SPC.004.0254 at 0257 93 NAA.016.0001 at 0048




0030H DNOWA advised the Naval Board that WYRALLAH, YANDRA and OLIVE CAM sailed at midnight (0001H). HEROS would sail at 0700H.94

0034H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty and C-in-C China:

Admiralty’s 1120A/25. Agree Admiralty’s appreciation appears only explanation. Estimate action occurred forenoon on 21st November. Following action has been taken. (1) Air search to cover likely area south of 20° south carried out 24th/25th. (2) Four auxiliary vessels from Fremantle proceeding to search. (3) Air search being carried out by six aircraft based on Geraldton 26th November. (4) Two Catalina aircraft proceeding Port Moresby to Fremantle ready operate 26th November. (5) C.Z.M. sending cruiser “TROMP” along probable route Sunda Strait to Fremantle and searching area north of 20° south by air. (6) Merchant shipping warned to keep a good lookout five ships due to pass through the area. In addition to enemy survivors picked up …95

0100H DNOWA advised the Naval Board it had received a message from TROCAS via VIN: ‘Found raft with 25 German seamen in 024°6’ 111°40’ said from COMORON sunk by cruiser’.96

0143H North Eastern Area Combined Headquarters advised the Central War Room that the two Catalinas would arrive at Fremantle at 0700H and 0900H on 26 November.97

0205H The CZM responded to the request for search assistance as follows:98

Your 0645. “TROMP” will leave 25th November earliest possible from Sunda Strait for reconnaissance whole probable route H.M.A.S. SYDNEY as far as Fremantle at highest possible speed. Air reconnaissance will commence 25th November daylight from Batavia as far as Christmas Island. Further two Catalinas from Sourabaya via Christmas Island as far as possible returning to TU(?)ILATJA(?)P at daylight MLA from Christmas Island 160°.

94 SPC.006.0023 95 NAA.070.0007 96 SPC.006.0024 97 NAA.026.0430; NAA.016.0001 at 0048 98 SPC.006.0026








0645H HEROS sailed with orders to intercept TROCAS and search for survivors.99

0645H Two Catalinas were ordered to leave Townsville and Port Moresby for Fremantle via Darwin.100


Pearce advised both P17 and P14 had returned to Geraldton trouble being water in petrol. A/C expect to be airborne again in one hour. Standby a/c en route Geraldton – Carnarvon not necessary signals ordering it to take over from P14.101

0707H An aircraft sighted a lifeboat at 24°52’S 111°09’E.102 All merchant and auxiliary vessels in the area were advised.103

0745H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, advising, ‘Life boat sighted 24 degrees 52 minutes south 111 degrees 09 east at 2307/Z/24’.104

0815H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board, ‘Aircraft reports life boat in position 024° 52’ south 111° 09’ east at 2307Z 24. Message Broadcast to GBM8’.105

0816H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron, and C-in-C East Indies, ‘My 1312Z/24 not to Admiralty tanker “TROCAS” reports survivors from “COMORON” sunk by cruiser. There is no further news of H.M.A.S. “Sydney”’.106

0820H SWACH signalled the Central War Room at 0020/0230/Z/25, ‘Aircraft report 1 lifeboat on coast 50 miles north and another 40 miles north of Carnarvon. Carnarvon authorities informed’.107

99 SPC.004.0254 at 0257 100 SPC.004.0254 at 0257 101 NAA.016.0001 at 0048 102 NAA.026.0428 103 SPC.004.0254; NAA.026.0427 104 NAA.026.0428 105 NAA.040.0427 106 NAA.074.0199 107 NAA.070.0247












0825H The SWACH log records, ‘Received NR12 fm Pearce = P13P = Lifeboat full using white coats as sail have lost touch vis. bad searching am returning to base Carnarvon = 0004Z/25’.108

0839H The SWACH log records, ‘Received NR16 fm Pearce. P13P = Lifeboat course east 3 knots = 0032Z/25’.109

0858H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, ‘Request allocation of secret call sign for British ship “TROCAS” due Fremantle 26th. Call sign at present allocated has been compromised’.110

0925H Aircraft reported two lifeboats, dark brown, ashore north of Carnarvon.

The RAAF, Customs, the police and the Volunteer Defence Corps at Carnarvon were informed. An RAAF party left to contact the boats’ crews.

Western Command arranged for a convoy of 12 vehicles containing a guard of three officers and 43 men, and provisions for 250 men for three days to proceed to Carnarvon to arrive in the afternoon of 27 November.111

0955H The SWACH log records, ‘Received NR.20 fm Pearce = P15P = Lifeboat on coast 50 miles north of Carnarvon another on beach 10 miles further south = 0125Z/25’.112

0958H The Naval Board signalled TROCAS, ‘Signal following details (1) Date, time and duration of action (2) Condition of cruiser after action’.113

1000H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘Carry out searches soon as possible for TROCAS estimated noon position either 2650 S 11250 E course 160 or 2705 S 11210E course 171 speed 9 knots (Acknowledge)’.114

108 NAA.016.0001 at 0048 109 NAA.016.0001 at 0048 110 NAA.074.0198 111 SPC.004.0254 at 0258 112 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 113 NAA.040.0424 114 SPC.006.0029; NAA.016.0001 at 0049










1017H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce = Tell C/O 14 Squadron do pass P15 0125/25 at local authorities Carnarvon survivors may be of enemy nationality = 0217Z/25’.115

1020H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled CWR = Aircraft report one lifeboat on coast 50 miles north & another forty miles north of Carnarvon. Carnarvon authorities informed = 0220Z/25’.116

1056H The CZM signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China:

Your 2851 24th November. Request your naval and air arrangements for area concerned so that I can coordinate mine especially air reconnaissances which I am prepared if necessary to extend Wednesday and subsequently to Western Australian harbours if suitable flying boats facilities and go octane fuel are available there.117

1107H The Naval Board signalled HARMAN and COONAWARRA:

Dutch flotilla leader “TROMP” will set watch on Australia station W/T organisation at 0730Z 25th November. If complement permits COONAWARRA is to set additional receiving watch on 12330 HC/S from 2300 until 0800 G.M.T. until further orders.118

1131H C-in-C China signalled the Naval Board, ‘“COMORAN” cannot be traced here. Request description when available …’119


Dutch flotilla leader TROMP leaving Sunda Strait AM/25 local time for passage at approximately 20 knots along SYDNEY’s probable track. She will require fuel on arrival Fremantle. C.Z.M. has been asked for ship to assume Australia Station W/T station organisation 0730Z 25th November. Inform Dutch consul after arrival.120

115 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 116 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 117 NAA.026.0419 118 NAA.074.0195 119 SPC.006.0030 120 NAA.026.0414








1139H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘(NODECO) P3/25 carry out search of coast line of Shark Bay and to North West Cape. Object locate rafts or ships boats. Acknowledge’.121

1200H The Dutch cruiser TROMP left Tajdjong Priok and travelled through the Sunda Strait, via Christmas Island, then along course 160° at 22 knots to latitude 20’S, then east to longitude 112°30’E, then to Bali Strait.122

1205H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce (R) CWR = P4/25 – carry out square search as soon as possible for TROCAS estimated noon position either 26 50S-112 50E course 160. 27 05S–112 10E course 121. Speed 9 knots. Acknowledge = 0380Z/25’.123

1400H SWACH signalled the Central War Room:

Reference my 2345Z/24 pilot of aircraft reports lifeboat open type with small mast and main sail heading east. Buff hull sharp each end 30 feet long containing 40 to 50 people wearing life jackets and navy blue pants. Reference my 0220/Z/25 R.A.A.F. land party with three trucks proceeding from Carnarvon.124


Received signal from CWR. = Flotilla leader Netherlands Cruiser “TROMP” leaving Sunda Strait AM 25th local time for passage at approx. 20 knots along HMAS Sydney’s probable track. She will require fuel on arrival Fremantle. C.Z.M. has been asked for ship to assume Australia Station W/T organization 0730Z/25th Nov. Inform Dutch consul after arrival 0838Z/25.125

121 NAA.040.0413 122 SPC.004.0254 at 0258 123 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 124 NAA.026.0410 125 NAA.016.0001 at 0049








Signal to CWR (R) Pearce. P1/25 completed. Three ships boats sighted me in position 24 52 S 11109 E. One forty miles and one fifty miles north of Carnarvon. Aircraft on track number four did not carry out search. Gap being filled by P2/25 = 0545Z/25.126

1417H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, ‘H.M.A.S. SYDNEY left position 007°56’S 104°40’E at 0400Z [1200H] Monday 17th for Fremantle due Thursday 20th. SYDNEY not yet arrived. C.Z.M. has been asked to search area south of Sunda Strait by air …’127


A.C.H. Fremantle from CWR (passed by WA) C251. In reply to 212 24/11. Suggest you investigate possibility dropping water + supplies to any survivors sighted. Possible method with Hudson as follows. Up to 100 lbs may be dropped by roping or standard observers let pact releasing with approx 20 feet static cord. Diving bomb shape may be used to attach to bomb rack and steadies of carries = 0320Z/25.128

1513H The Central War Room signalled SWACH, ‘Reference sightings lifeboats north of Carnarvon. Presume you have informed any inhabitants this locality as to whereabouts of stranded lifeboats in order that occupants can be rescued and brought in for examination’.129

1530H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘Pilot of aircraft reports both boats dark brown. Northern boat two masts half mile from shore containing about 40 persons. Southern boat on beach with two men standing by wearing navy blue trousers’.130

126 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 127 NAA.026.0457 128 NAA.016.0001 at 0049 129 NAA.074.0193 130 NAA.026.0407







1610H The Naval Board signalled the CZM and C-in-C China:

Your 0255Z/25. Very grateful for air and naval co-operation and proposed extended flights to Western Australia but consider area south of 20 degs. South adequately covered by air. 90(fig) octane fuel and flying boat facilities available only at Fremantle. Life boats located in the area bounded by latitudes 25° south 24° south longtitude 111° east and coast of Australia. Two life boats ashore 50 miles north of Carnarvon survivors if any not yet contacted. Appreciate possibility of severely damaged “SYDNEY” proceeding to Singapore or Sourabaya where nearest dock is located. Request you will cover these possibilities by air search not farther than 20° south.131

1629H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the New Zealand Naval Board: ‘My 0617Z/24. Following censorship in force Australia publicity and communications. Begins: No reference to H.M.A.S. “Sydney” or any statements or rumours regarding alleged naval activity Australian waters ends. Request you conform’.132

1815H There is an entry in DNOWA’s report:

Report from Dirk Hartog Island of destroyer heading South at high speed, putting up a smoke screen and all on fire, at 10 A.M local time 20th November. Investigation revealed date should have been 19th November, and vessel identified as Tug “UCO”.133

1835H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board:

From reporting officer Carnarvon summary report interrogation W/T operator on raider. Name of raider “KOMORAN” guns 8 inch and anti aircraft new ship crew 300 Captain Detmer in Indian Ocean 6 months sank STAMATOS EMBIRICOS September. Met cruiser “Perth” class escorting convoy 5 to 7 ships position 026° south 111° east 1730 H/19 Cruiser closed thinking “KOMORAN” in convoy. Later opened fire range 1?

131 NAA.040.0405 132 NAA.074.0191 133 SPC.004.0254 at 0258





Mile Cruiser used flag not W/T. Gunfire ended 1900 H/19 “KOMORAN” burning amidships and blown up by crew. Cruiser vanished rapidly believed sunk was burning amidships and aft.134


Position at 1000Z/25. TROCAS reported her morning position and will be met by “WYRALLAH” in position (2018S (2918S?) 112°36’E at 2230Z/25 when guard will be put on board. “TROCAS” E.T.A. Fremantle noon Thursday. “WYRELLA” proceed northward “YANDRA” “HEROS” and “OLIVE CAM” all proceeding northwards. Air sightings during forenoon were one lifeboat in position 24°08’S 111°09’E heading E. Two boats near shore to north of Carnarvon and Hespein all boats were brown. Two contained about 40 men each and the third was beached. Two men were seen alongside it. R.A.A.F. and A.R.O. at Carnarvon temporarily dealing with survivors but army are sending 40 men by road to arrive Carnarvon PM Thursday.135

1906H SWACH signalled PEARCE, ‘Carry out search of coastline from North West Cape to Shark Bay. Object locate rafts and ship boats. Search commence 2200Z/25 [0600H 26 November]’.136

1920H The Admiralty signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China, ‘A.C.N.B’s 0016 [0816H] 25th. The only explanation we can think of is that raider torpedoed “SYDNEY” before being sunk. Request your views and details of steps you are taking to try and locate her’.137

1931H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent to CWR (R) Pearce. P4/25 completed & negative 1105Z/25 - 1130Z/25’.138

1932H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent to CWR (R) Pearce. P2/25 completed & negative 1106Z/25 – 1131Z/25’.139

134 NAA.040.0382 135 NAA.040.0394 136 NAA.026.0393; NAA.016.0001 at 0050 137 NAA.070.0107 138 NAA.016.0001 at 0050 139 NAA.016.0001 at 0050









1933H C-in-C China signalled the Admiralty and the Naval Board, ‘Concur that this is probable explanation. A.C.N.B. is organising search with assistance from C.Z.M’.140

2000H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal (No 59) received from Pearce: 25/11 Secret. P3/25 completed & negative = 1145Z/25’.141

2001H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent: CWR from SWACH: My 1045/25 Carnarvon to Onslow nothing fresh sighted. Northern boat is being approached by car party = 1401Z/25’.142

2005H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent. Pearce (R) CWR from SWACH. Secret. P2/26 – SNA. 2303S – 11028E – 2303S – 11349E - 28105 – 11349E 2510S. 11028E. 2200Z/25 – objective locate rafts and ships boats. Acknowledge. 1203Z/25’.143


Signal received from Naval Board [address mutilated] Your 0255Z 25th. Very grateful for air & naval cooperation –– and proposed extended flight to Western Australia but consider area south of 020°S adequately covered by air. 90 octane fuel and flying boat facilities available only at Fremantle. NP Lifeboats located in area bounded by Latitude 025°S 024°S Long 111°E and coast of Australia. 2 lifeboats ashore 50 mile North of Carnarvon survivors if any not yet contacted. Appreciate possibility severely damaged HMAS Sydney proceeding Singapore or Sourabaya where nearest dock so located. Request you will cover these possibilities by air search not further than 020°S – 0810Z/25.144

2147H DNOWA signalled the combined war room [sic]:

Pending air reports A.M. today H.M.A.S. “YANDRA” “HEROS” “OLIVE CAM” are proceeding with all despatch independently to position of life boats sighted from air. “WYRRALLAH” endeavouring to put guards

140 SPC.006.0032 141 NAA.016.0001 at 0051 142 NAA.016.0001 at 0051 143 NAA.016.0001 at 0051 144 NAA.016.0001 at 0051







on board “TROCAS” dawn today. “WYRRALLAH” will then proceed to same position as other craft and take charge of searching operations. Position of search will be given from time to time having regard to latest intelligence reports.145

2150H The SWACH log records, ‘Received by phone from Pearce: “Pearce pass ACH from Onslow. Arrived ONSLOW 1105Z nothing fresh sighted south of lifeboats PTY(?) north one being approached by car party 2 miles N of it 0850Z McDonald”’.146

2155H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent: CWR (R) Pearce from SWACH – Secret. P3/25 completed 1145Z. Nothing fresh sighted car party approaching northern boat – 1355Z/25’.147

2201H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘My 1045/25 Carnarvon to Onslow nothing fresh sighted northern boat is being approached by car party’.148


From Carnarvon. Survivors number about 110. Mostly 70 miles north of Carnarvon. Germans are from a raider commenced an engagement with a British ship “Perth” class which began 19th November 120 miles S.W. of Fremantle. At midnight raider blew up. Germans rowed towards light of vessel which was in flames. Before they arrived British ship disappeared believed sunk. They turned and ran with the wind to land. Police are in charge of prisoners. One prisoner arriving midnight. Will report immediately. May they be transferred by vessel arriving Carnarvon 26th November.149


Message by direct phone from Carnarvon. Survivors that were located not yet arrived Carnarvon numbering approximately 120 they state that an engagement between them and a raider and first class cruiser made Wednesday last at 1900H. Their ship finally blew up at

145 NAA.040.0398 146 NAA.016.0001 at 0051 147 NAA.016.0001 at 0051 148 NAA.026.0387 149 SPC.006.0033; NAA.016.0001 at 0052








midnight. Engagement took place approximately 120 miles S.W. of ?Fremantle. They had three life boats and two rubber boats. When last seen first class cruiser was on fire. Have given instructions that one person who can speak English is to be brought to Carnarvon as soon as possible arriving at 1230 or 1 A.M. for further questioning. Main body arrive 6 A.M. Will call again about 1 A.M. Suggest that this person be brought to Pearce Aerodrome by aircraft.150

Wednesday 26 November

On 26 November 1941 the Air Board forwarded telegrams to next of kin of RAAF servicemen in SYDNEY, advising that their relative was missing as a result of enemy action.151

0015H TROCAS signalled the Naval Board, ‘German vessel sunk by gunfire 19th November action duration short vessel took fire immediately condition of cruiser not known’.152


Admiralty’s 1120A/25. Agree Admiralty’s appreciation appears only explanation. Estimate action occurred forenoon on 21st November. Following action has been taken. (1) Air search to cover likely area south of 20° south carried out 24th/25th. (2) Four Auxiliary vessels from Fremantle proceeding to search. (3) Air search being carried out by six aircraft based on Geraldton 26th November. (4) Two Catalina aircraft proceeding Port Moresby to Fremantle ready operate 26th November. (5) C.Z.M. sending cruiser “TROMP” along probable route Sunda Strait to Fremantle and searching area north of 20° south by air. (6) Merchant shipping warned to keep a good lookout five ships due to pass through the area. In addition to enemy survivors picked up by “TROCAS” one lifeboat containing forty or fifty men sighted under sail in area two lifeboats also containing survivors ashore 40 miles north of Carnarvon. Land party proceeding to take them into custody. All lifeboats painted dark brown colour and

150 SPC.006.0034; NAA.016.0001 at 0051 151 NAA.047.0034 152 NAA.026.0400






therefore do not belong to “SYDNEY”. It is hoped to obtain information from prisoners. You will be kept informed of developments.153

This information was plainly derived from DNOWA’s signals of 2300H and 2325H on 25 November and was received from Carnarvon by telephone.

0230H The SWACH log records, ‘Phone call from Air Commodore Hewitt, taken by W/C McLean. Object searching forces is to locate possible Sydney survivors’.154


Signal received from Pearce by phone: From W/Cdr Lightfoot. Interviewed one member of crew W/T operator named LINCKE. The ship was KOMORAN 6000 tons armament 8 inch guns and A/A guns number unspecified. Armed merchantmen newly built. Number of crew about 300. Captain of ship BETLERS. Been in Indian Ocean about six months. Last ship they sank was STOMACOS EMBIRICOS about 2 months ago. A first class cruiser 7000 tons Wed 19th Nov about 1730 hours pos 26°S 111°E the enemy vessel sighted & convoy of 5 to 7 ships escorted by this cruiser. The cruiser evidently thought that the enemy ship belonged to the convoy and it approached within half a mile. KOMORAN opened fire at 1740 hours. KOMORAN’S first salvo silenced the cruiser’s 8 inch guns. Gunfire continued till 1900 hours. Cruiser did not use W/T but signalled with flag. The raider was burning fiercely amidships and at midnight was blown up and the crew escaped in boats. The cruiser vanished over horizon burning amidships and astern and it is believed to have sunk.155


N.B.s 1634Z/24 following information is based on conversation with one English speaking German survivor. Report received at Navy office by long distance telephone.

153 SPC.006.0035 to 0036 154 NAA.016.0001 at 0052 155 NAA.016.0001 at 0052





(1) “SYDNEY” encountered armed raider at 1900H on 19th November. Exact position not yet established.

(2) In action which followed raider caught fire and abandoned by ship’s company.

(3) Raider blew up at about midnight.

(4) Survivors pulled towards cruiser which was on fire but before they closed “SYDNEY” she disappeared believed sunk.

(5) Survivors then made towards land. No information concerning torpedo fire or description of raider yet obtained but survivors will be questioned on Wednesday, 26th.156

0311H The Naval Board signalled C-in-C Netherlands East Indies, ‘Your 1645Z/25 date is correct. Delay in transmission is regretted. In view of further information received consider air search will not now be required. Further signal will be made’.157


SECRET

From reporting officer Carnarvon summary report Interrogation W/T operator on raider. Name of raider “KOMORAN” guns 8 inch and anti aircraft new ship crew 300 Captain Detmers in Indian Ocean 6 months sank STAMATOS EMBIRICOS September. Met cruiser “Perth” class escorting convoy 5 to 7 ships position 026° south 111° east 1730 H/19 cruiser closed thinking “KOMORAN” in convoy later opened fire range ½? mile cruiser used flag not W/T. Gunfire ended 1900 H/19 “KORMORAN” burning amidships and blown up by crew. Cruiser vanished rapidly believed sunk was burning amidships and aft.158

0354H Wing Commander Maclean contacted SWACH (the message being delivered by hand from the RAAF):

From Carnarvon: Member of the “people” who landed in boat brought into harbour and interrogated. Interviewed one member of the crew W.T. operator

156 SPC.006.0037 157 NAA.040.0397 158 NAA.026.0382





named Lincke. The ship “KOMORAN” 6000 tons armament 8 inch guns and A.A. guns number unspecified. Armed merchantman newly built number of crew about 300. Captain of ship Detlers. Been in Indian Ocean about six months. First ship they sank was “STOMATOS EMBIRICOS” about two months ago. A “Perth” class cruiser 7000 tons. Wednesday 19th November about 1730 hours position 260 S. 110°E. Enemy vessel sighted a convoy of five to seven ships escorted by this cruiser. The cruiser evidently thought that the enemy vessel belonged to the convoy and it approached within half a mile. “KOMORAN” opened fire at 1740 hours. “KOMORAN” first salvo silenced cruiser’s eight inch guns. Gunfire continued till 1900 hours. Cruiser did not use W.T. but signalled with flags. Raider was burning fiercely amidships and at midnight was blown up and the crew escaped in boats. Cruiser vanished over horizon burning amidships and astern and it is believed to have sunk. End of message.159

0629H The Admiralty signalled all Allies:

…

(iv) H.M.A.S.”SYDNEY” overdue at Fremantle since 20 November from (?) (group missed) area her non appearance is causing anxiety. My 2229A 25 Part 3 follows. (2225A/25)

My 2229 A 25 Part 3. At 0700 24 “TROCAS” (BRIT) in 024°06’ south 111°40’ east picked up 25 German Naval survivors from “COMORON” which they said had been sunk by a cruiser. “COMORON” may be corruption for “KAMERUN” (German) or possibly nickname of Raider 41 (g) last located in South Atlantic in May 1941 with Raider 16. She may have operated in Galapagos area in August. My 2229A 25 Part 4 follows.160

159 NAA.070.0236 to 0237 160 NAA.070.0102 to 0104




0816H The Naval Board signalled the CZM, C-in-C China and C-in-C East Indies:

SYDNEY was in action with German raider KOMORAN reputed 8 inch guns in position 026 degrees south 111 degrees east at 1730 H/19. KOMORAN sank. Survivors of KOMORAN state SYDNEY last seen burning amidships and aft. Australian aircraft and naval vessels covering area of action. Request C.Z.M. will search as requested in my 0810Z/25.161

0901H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal from P24 – lifeboat course-090°- Position 24°39S 112°02E = 2248Z’.162

0921H The SWACH log records, ‘P24 position of 2nd lifeboat 24°14S 112°24E = 2344Z’.163

1019H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled C.W.R. WYRALLAH placed guard on Trocas position on board Trocas satisfactory’.164

1125H C-in-C North Indies signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China:

TROMP left Tanjong Priok 25th Nov midday in report with your 0810 25th Nov. Orders for TROMP reference my 1805 24th Nov altered and it will sail from Christmas Island course 160° speed 22 knots until 020° south then east until 112°30’ east then to Bali Straits.165

1140H The Naval Board signalled TROMP, SWACH, the Central War Room and the CZM:

SYDNEY was in action with German raider in position 26 degrees south 111 degrees east at 1730 H/19. Raider sank. Survivors of raider report SYDNEY last seen burning amidship and aft. Australian aircraft and 4

naval vessels will be in the area of the action. C.Z.M. has been asked to cover by air search the possibility of SYDNEY proceeding at slow speed to Singapore or Sourabaya. Two life boats from raider landed 50 miles north of Carnarvon.166

161 SPC.006.0042 162 NAA.016.0001 at 0053 163 NAA.016.0001 at 0053 164 NAA.016.0001 at 0053 165 NAA.026.0376 166 NAA.040.0374








1208H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE:

P3/26 search the area bounded by lines joining the following positions 2440S - 10900E - 2440S - 11335E - 2720S - 11400E - 2720S - 10900E - Search to commence at 0630/Z(.) Step aside parallel track search using seven aircraft (.) Object locate ships boats or rafts (Acknowledge).167


Z32 26/11

Pan Europe Centaur Herstein have arrived in search area two lifeboats have been sighted by aircraft in approximate position 24 degrees south 112 degrees east one is considered to be same as that sighted on 25 November (.) Description of second boat not yet available ships in the area have been informed.168

1223H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce (R) C.W.R. Secret. P4/26. One Catalina carry out search of coastline from Geraldton to North West Cape and return parallel to coast fifty miles to seaward. Search to commence 0600Z. Acknowledge’.169


Pearce phoned lifeboats referred to in P24S message 2248Z is about 25 feet broad in beam 1 about 50 men. Similar to those on beach course 75°.

Lifeboat referred to in P24 2834Z is smaller containing 20/25 men not so broad – Course 090°170

1243H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent Pearce. Gannet to locate both lifeboats reported by P24 at 2248Z/26 and 2344 Z/26 and drop water and supplies’.171

167 NAA.026.0373; NAA.016.0001 at 0054 168 NAA.026.0372 169 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 170 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 171 NAA.016.0001 at 0054








1327H C-in-C East Indies signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China:

With reference to your 0016 26th Nov. Reconnaissances will be made 27th Nov. Daylight with 2 Catalinas from Bali Strait via 020° south 112°30’ east 020°109°40’ to Surabaya. With 1 Catalina from Tjilatjap via Christmas is 020° south 109°40’ east 020°112°30’ Bali Straits to Surabaya.172

1335H Officer-in-Charge Naval Guard Bean signalled the Naval Board, ‘Further to your 0158 25th Nov. Prisoner says cruiser hit by their(?) Torpedo(?) last seen burning amidships that night position unreliable reported 026° south 108°’.173

1340H The SWACH log records, ‘Received instruction from F/Lt Davonen that A.O.C. has been in touch with Melbourne who particularly want identity & nationality of men in boats established by A/C taking part in this afternoon search’.174

1341H The Central War Room signalled SWACH, ‘Request summary of all evidence not yet forwarded be sent to arrive 0600K/27’.175

1345H The SWACH log records, ‘Phoned Pearce & passed the above orders’.176

1358H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce – Catalina to locate boats sighted in positions 2421S - 11202E at 2248Z and 2414S - 11224E and 2334Z alight if possible & identify nationality of occupants = 0558Z/26’.177

1422H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal from Pearce 26/11 P2/26 complete(.) Two lifeboats sighted = 0610/Z/26’.178

172 NAA.026.0369 173 NAA.026.0368 174 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 175 NAA.074.0208 176 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 177 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 178 NAA.016.0001 at 0054









1449H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce “all aircraft to be informed search must not repeat NOT be reduced = 0649Z/26”’.179

1456H The SWACH log records, ‘Received signal from C.W.R. – Require summary of all evidence not yet forwarded to be sent arriving 0600K/27’.180

1500H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P2/26 completed 0610/Z/26. Two lifeboats sighted first 2439 S 11202 E at 2248/Z second 2414S 1124E at 2334/Z …’181

1501H SWACH signalled No. 4 Service Flying Training School and the Central War Room:

W.35 26/11

Search to be carried out as follows KP1/26 (.) Parallel track search (.) Datums 2732S - 11353E - 2720S - 11347E - 2708S - 11341E - 2657S - 11335E - 2645S -11328E - 2633S - 11322E - 2621S - 11316E - 2609S - 11310E (.) All tracks 270 true for following distances 150 – 145 – 140 – 135 – 130 – 125 – 120 - 115 aircraft to return along tracks and land at Geraldton or Carnarvon as convenient (.) Search to commence as soon as possible (.) Object locate ships boats or rafts. (acknowledge).182

1501H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P1/26 Completed and negative. 0600/Z/26(.)’183

1650H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce P39 to locate & identify boats sighted by P24 also 6A 2A and 2B report positions and actions = 0850Z/26’.184

1758H The SWACH log records, ‘Intelligence officer Pearce phoned Gannet landed 1720H went 80 miles due west from Charles Point – did a square search of eleven legs based on a vis of TWO – Result negative – 100 miles due west sighted Centaur course 090°’.185

179 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 180 NAA.016.0001 at 0054 181 NAA.026.0366; NAA.016.0001 at 0054 182 NAA.026.0365; NAA.016.0001 at 0054 183 NAA.026.0364 184 NAA.016.0001 at 0055 185 NAA.016.0001 at 0055











1853H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘L P 4/26 Completed and negative 1018/Z/26’.186

1913H SWACH signalled aircraft and the Central War Room, ‘2 39 26/11. Catalinas to search area 2412S 10740E –2412S – 10915E – 2700S – 10915E – 2700S – 10740E Using best visibility commencing at 2330Z/26. Object locate ships boats or rafts Acknowledge’.187

1925H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room:

As - P1/27/ carry out the type of aircraft patrol or search indicated in accordance with instructions from the aircraft patrol and search table which follow:

Parallel track search

14 squadron 5 aircraft

2300Z

26°53’S 113°32E 26°32’S 113°21’E 26°185’S 113 14’E 25°57’S 113°03’E 25°43’S 112°56’ E

Direction of parallel tracks 270°360°090°

228 miles 84 miles and to coast 220 “ 84 “ “ “ “ 214 “ 84 “ “ “ “ 206 “ 84 “ “ “ “ 199 “ 84 “ “ “ “

Aircraft to return to Geraldton if possible object

Locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge.188


Signal to VMZCY2, VMZEU2 (R) C.W.R. Secret. Catalinas to search area 2412S - 10740E - 2412S - 10915E - 2700S - 10915E - 2700S - 10740E using best visibility commencing at 2330Z/26. Object locate ships boats or rafts. acknowledge=1113Z/26.189

186 NAA.026.0362; NAA.016.0001 at 0055 187 NAA.026.0361 188 NAA.026.0359 189 NAA.016.0001 at 0055








Signal to PEARCE (R) C.W.R. – Secret. P1/27 – SSN-A-14-5-C-2300Z-D-2653S-11332E-2632S-N321E-2618S-11314E-2557S-11303E-2543S-11256E-P-270-360-090-R-228-84 and to coast 220-84 and to coast 214-84 and to coast 206-84 and to coast 199-84 and to coast – U- Geraldton if possible. Object to locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge – 1125Z/26.190


P1/27. Parallel track search 4SFTS - 7 to commence at 2300Z/26. D-2700S-1136E 2639S-11326E-2611S-11311E-2550S-11300E-2522S-11257E-2501S-11306E-2440S-11315E- direction of parallel tracks 270°360°090° distance along parallel tracks 150 miles or as far as possible step aside for distances as follows No. 1 14 No. 2 14 No.3 7 No.4 14 No.5 7 No. 6 14 No.7 14 and return on 090 degrees to coast. Object locate ships or rafts. Acknowledge.”191

1938H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P2/27 three Wirraways to carry out search of coastline and islands from ONSLOW to GERALDTON commencing at 2300/Z26. Object locate ships or rafts (acknowledge)’.192


P2/27 1 Anson to locate lifeboats in positions as follows. 2439S 11202E steering 090 at 2248Z/25 and 2414S 11224E steering 075 at 2334Z/25. Estimated speeds 1-3 knots. Aircraft to locate and lead searching surface vessels to boats. Aircraft to be relieved if necessary. Search to commence at first light (acknowledge).193

190 NAA.016.0001 at 0055 191 NAA.026.0358; NAA.016.0001 at 0055 192 NAA.026.0357; NAA.016.0001 at 0055 193 NAA.026.0356; NAA.016.0001 at 0055 to 0056









2030H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled CWR – owing to visibility life boats could not be sighted again this afternoon & nationality of occupants is not known: 1230Z/26=1223Z/26’.194

2050H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE:

Z44 26/11 Summary of days operations. Guard transferred from Wyrallah to Trocas. Wyralla Yandra Heros and Olive Cam proceeded northwards and spread to take up positions to sweep through area off Carnarvon. Hudsons and Ansons carried out parallel track searches of areas to seawards between latitudes 2300 S and 2730 S sighted two life boats and Centaur. Herstein and Pan Europe. Wirraways searched coast line from North West Cape to Shark Bay. One Catalina searched the coast from Fremantle to North West cape. ASD endeavoured to locate lifeboats to establish nationality of occupants but sighted nothing. One Hudson despatched to locate boats and attempt to establish nationality but failed to locate Gannet despatched to drop water and food to boats but failed to locate.195

2110H The SWACH log records, ‘Received from Pearce 26/11 P4/26 completed & negative = 1240Z’.196

2111H The SWACH log records, ‘Received from Pearce 26/11 P3/26 complete & negative = 1241Z’.197

2115H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P3/26 completed and negative. 1201Z/26’.198

2230H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P.1/26 completed and negative. 1300Z/26’.199

194 NAA.016.0001 at 0056 195 NAA.026.0353; NAA.016.0001 at 0056 196 NAA.016.0001 at 0056 197 NAA.016.0001 at 0056 198 NAA.040.0352; NAA.016.0001 at 0056 199 NAA.040.0350; NAA.016.0001 at 0056












Following reconnaissance being carried out daylight 27 Nov. From NEI. 2 Catalinas from Bali Strait via 020 south 112 30 east 020 south 10940 east to Sourabaya. 1 Catalina TJILATJAP via Christmas Island 020 south 109 40 east 020 south 112 30 east Bali Straits to Sourabaya. Object to locate SYDNEY if proceeding to dock Singapore or Sourabaya.200


From Carnarvon. Survivors number about 110. Mostly 70 miles north of Carnarvon. Germans are from a raider commenced an engagement with a British ship “Perth” class which began 19th November 120 miles S.W. of Fremantle. At midnight raider blew up. Germans rowed towards lights of vessel which was in flames. Before they arrived British ship disappeared believed sunk. They turned and ran with the wind to land. Police are in charge of prisoners. One prisoner arriving midnight. Will report immediately. May they be transferred by vessel arriving Carnarvon 26th November.201

2315H CENTAUR signalled the Naval Board, ‘1020 local standard time 26th Nov. 024°39’ south 112°15’ east proceeding Carnarvon 4 knots life boat containing 62 German seamen in tow unable to embark then without adequate armed guards’.202

2319H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA:

Following is a repetition of my 0340Z/26 addressed TROMP (R) A.C.H. Fremantle C.W.R. C.Z.M. Begins. SYDNEY was in action with German raider in position 26 degrees south 111 degrees east at 1730 H/19. Raider sank. Survivors of raider report SYDNEY last seen burning amidship and aft. Australian aircraft and 4 naval vessels will be in the area of the action. C.Z.M. has been asked to cover by air search the possibility of SYDNEY proceeding at slow speed to Singapore or Sourabaya. Two life boats from raider landed 50 miles north of Carnarvon. Ends.203

200 NAA.026.0349 201 NAA.070.0243 202 NAA.026.0348 203 NAA.074.0203






2330H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board and the Central War Room:

0400 Lt. Commander Rycroft and interpreter dispatched to Carnarvon to interrogate prisoners. 0600 armed guard placed on board “TROCAS” at sea group 53 and “OLIVE CAM” proceeding with all despatch and speed to take up position to sweep through area off Carnarvon. A.M. Hudson sighted two lifeboats and also “CENTAUR”, “HERSTEIN” and “PAN EUROPE”. P.M. Life boats were not repetition not located by various aircraft owing to poor visibility. Arrangements have been made to embark prisoner in “CENTAUR” immediately military guard arrives Carnarvon which is expected to be at mid day Thursday 27. Positions of raft picked up by “TROCAS” and life boat reported by R.A.A.F. do not give any guide to position of conflict but position given by navigator of raider when interrogated namely 027° south 111° east considered to be approximately correct. 21 15 visitors to Dirk Hartog on returning today reported that at 1000 H Thursday a destroyer Was(?) sighted 7 miles off steaming south at high speed throwing off smokescreen and all on fire. Report being investigated(?) Part 2 and final of my 1530 26 follows.204


My 1533/26 part 2 final. Evidence prisoners examined at Carnarvon indicates

(i) H.M.A.S. SYDNEY replied to raider fire with gunfire and torpedos. 2 prisoners state no repetition no torpedoes from raider.

(ii) Position of engagement put by navigating officer at 027 south 111 east.

(iii) Ship KORMORANT [sic] last port Hamburg 6000 tons 15 knots crew 350, 8 to 12 months at sea.

(iv) Possibly equipped with torpedo tubes carries one aircraft did not carry mines Operated alone Unreliably stated to have 6-8 inch guns.

(v) Attacked at 0830Z 19th

204 NAA.040.0346 to 0347



(vi) Condition of survivors. 8 men suffering from exposure remainder in lesser degree. One(1) officer wounded Boat prepared with food205


My 1530 26(1) SYDNEY torpedo reported not to have hit raider. Raider did not fire torpedo. Men are mostly young men with some old men in mercantile marine with knowledge of Australian Ports. Dirk Harog [sic] report now found to refer to 19 November when U C O was in that position.206


By telegram the Naval Board advised next of kin of the loss of relatives.207

0046H The Naval Board signalled the CZM and C-in-C China:

Resume of operations up to 26th. Total sightings 4 lifeboats and one raft all at present considered to contain enemy survivors. Air search continues supported by 4 auxiliary naval vessels. Intend to continue air search in area bounded by Geraldton North West Cape to longitude of 108° east repetition 108° east. Three naval auxiliary vessels will be in area.208

0121H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board, ‘Message 1515 26th received from CENTAUR. Arrangements being made for armed guard at Carnarvon’.209

0231H The Admiralty signalled many stations, including the Naval Board:

H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” six days overdue Fremantle. She was returning from escort duty. Believed she sank an enemy raider but definite news of “SYDNEY’s” fate uncertain. British tanker has picked up German seamen from a raft, others have been sighted in life boats two of

205 NAA.026.0344 206 NAA.026.0343 207 NAA.074.0214; NAA.074.0215 208 NAA.026.0341 209 NAA.026.0340








which reported came ashore in Western Australia. Indications are now H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” was on fire when last seen by Germans.210


Received signal from C.W.R. C255 26/11 – following reconnaissances being carried out daylight 27/11 from N.E.I. Two Catalinas from Bali Strait via 020 South 11230 East 020 South 10940 East to Sourabaya. One Catalina TJILATJAP (Ijilatjap) via Christmas Island 010 South 10940 East 020 South 11230 East BALI (Bali) Straits to Sourabaya. Object to locate Sydney if proceeding to dock Singapore or Sourabaya. T.O.R 1500Z/26.211

0545H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal sent 4SFTS (R) C.W.R. Secret. Cancel G2/27. Lifeboats have been taken in tow=2145Z/26’.212

0900H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘“Koolinda” (BRIT.) proceeding Fremantle from Carnarvon 30 prisoners on board’.213

0911H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and No. 4 Service Flying Training School, ‘02/27 completed CENTAUR reported in position 2418 S 11257 E at 2230Z/26 towing two lifeboats speed 4 knots’.214

1000H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘“TROCAS” arrived Fremantle. Interrogation of prisoners proceeding’.215

1023H The Central War Room signalled SWACH, ‘Desire search scheme be moved north to 20 degrees south and to extend from coast to maximum depth to seawards’.216

210 NAA.070.0097 211 NAA.016.0001 at 0056 212 NAA.016.0001 at 0057 213 NAA.026.0323 214 SPC.006.0046; NAA.016.0001 at 0057 215 SPC.006.0047 216 NAA.026.0318










1120H The Central War Room signalled NWACH, NEACH and SWACH, ‘Move three repeat three Hudsons immediately to Port Hedland to come under control A.C.H. Fremantle [SWACH]. Darwin to advise Fremantle E.T.A. Port Hedland. Object reconnaissance Indian Ocean’.217


Rcd. signal telephone fm Carnarvon via Pearce=Anson 2149 has landed picked up a boat drifting 40 German sailors aboard, contacted small Patrol Vessel & get it to boat not enough fuel to wait and see if vessel took boat in tow or sailors aboard. White flag in boat with no water English in German & painted in red boat absolutely full many exhausted. Another small patrol vessel steering a course approx, to position. Position 25°.04.’S. 112°04’E. Pilot F/L Rooke now checked back & position should be accurate.218


G3/27 carry out parallel track search by 4 service flying training school, Geraldton, using 8 Wirraways commencing at 0630Z/27 Datums: 2414S 11157E 2414S 11214E 2414S 11226E 2414S 11238E 2414S 11249E 2414S 11300E 2414S 11311E 2414S 11322E. Course 009° True, distance along the parallel tracks 250 miles. Position to which aircraft to return – Onslow.219

1147H The SWACH log records, ‘Received signal from C.W.R. C256/27/11 = Desire search scheme to be moved north to 20°.S. and to extend from coast to maximum depth to seaward = 0223Z/27’.220


Another boat sighted by aircraft in position 25 04 south 112 04 east at 0300 Z 27th boat contained 40 men who showed white flag with word no water painted in red. Auxiliary vessel has made contact will forward details as soon as known …221

217 NAA.026.0316 218 NAA.016.0001 at 0057 219 NAA.026.0315; NAA.016.0001 at 0057 220 NAA.016.0001 at 0057 221 NAA.026.0314









P3/27 search the area bounded by lines joining the following positions 2008S 11107E 2008S 11243E 2414S 11156E 2414S 11027E 0600Z/27. 4 aircraft on step aside parallel track using visibility 5 miles. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge.222

1215H YANDRA signalled DNOWA, ‘Have picked up lifeboats with 72 survivors in position 025° south 112° 20° East have taken lifeboats in tow am proceeding towards CENTAUR please advise’.223


Ref. Tel signal fm Carnarvon at 1134: Rcd. signal by telephone fm Carnarvon = Information about the vessel contacting lifeboats at 1015W was incorrect. The vessel was 15 miles away steering straight for it & a second boat a little further away steering straight for it. =224


G1/27 Completed 0435Z. One lifeboat sighted 0215Z position 2504S 11204E 40 occupants naval patrol vessel directed to boat aircraft will not have fuel to wait and see if contact made(.) White flag in boat with no water painted on it in red(.) Many appeared exhausted.225

1258H DNOWA signalled OLIVE CAM, WYRALLAH and YANDRA, ‘Report if you are in contact with lifeboat reported in position 2504 south 112 04 E and report nationality of occupants. 0458z/27’.226


Following now reported. On 19/11 at 1003Z tug. U.C.O. in position 2645S 11320E heard faint signal QQ repeat QQ remainder unintelligible and at 1005Z QQQQ repeat QQQQ and unintelligible group of figures badly made possibly containing figures 110 followed by 1000 G.M.T. (H) I.C.W. note strength 526 estimated by operator within 300 miles. Geraldton

222 SPC.006.0052; NAA.016.0001 at 0058 223 AWM.005.0106 224 NAA.016.0001 at 0058 225 SPC.006.0053; NAA.016.0001 at 0058 226 AWM.005.0107









radio reports that at 1005Z 19/11 they received weak message strength 2 begins knx unintelligible then 7C 11115E 1000 G.M.T. Ends. Could not estimate distance. No Q’s. distinguished waited two minutes no repetition. At 1015Z 19/11 Geraldton sent out message to ships asking if anything to report but received no reply.227

1436H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA and SWACH, ‘Commander Dechaineux and Commander Salm Royal Dutch Navy German interpreter. Arriving by plane pm Friday 28th November to carry out special interrogation. Request facilities be afforded’.228

1440H YANDRA signalled DNOWA, ‘Your 0526. Survivors consist 70 German and two Chinese’.229

1519H NWACH signalled the Central War Room and SWACH, ‘A.766 27/11 Further my A.765 27/11 (.) Three aircraft proceeding in company using asradio and commercial call signs (.) AOB at Hedland standing by on following frequencies. Day 10020(.) Night 6430 (.)’230


Received signal by phone fr. Pearce = Gannet returned from Onslow reports sighting 3 pieces of white timber approx. 10 or 16 feet in length about 1 mile or so apart 20 miles due west from coast in latitude of the bottom of Exmouth Gulf = from Carnarvon.231

1545H The SWACH log records, ‘E4/27 Completed “Yandra” towing last boat report posn. 24°.54’.S. 112°30’E., course 075°=0720 Z/27. Pilot who reported this boat said occupants were German because words “No water” were written in German and English’.232

227 SPC.004.0027 228 NAA.026.0305 229 AWM.005.0108 230 NAA.026.0304 231 NAA.016.0001 at 0058 232 NAA.016.0001 at 0058








1556H The Chief of Intelligence Staff signalled the Naval Board, C-in-C North East Indies, C-in-C China and the Admiralty, ‘German radio quoted in press? states H.M.S. “DRAGON” torpedoed and sunk by a submarine. Comment. Assume report may refer to H.M.A.S. “SYDNEY” and be? a feeler for ship’s name. Presence of submarines must be suspected’.233

1558H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘P4/27 completed. Life boat reported previously my 0455Z/27 now being towed by YANDRA in position 2454S 11230E Course 075. Occupants were identified as German by pilot by words on flag in both German and English’.234

1620H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Aircraft reports sighting in position 2232S 11318E 3 pieces of white timber approximately 15 or 16 feet in length about one mile or so apart at 0530/Z/27’.235

1646H The Naval Board signalled the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron, the Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney) and DNOWA:

Following received from AQUITANIA by v/s through Wilsons Promontory. Begins. Have intercepted your message Stop 22nd. November 2230 G.M.T. Lat 24 degs. 35 minutes south longitude 110 degrees 57 minutes east rescued 26 Germans from raft. Wind force 5. They report cruiser on fire ends. Request detailed interrogation of prisoners and early report by signal.236

1740H Airintel Western Area signalled Airintel Melbourne:

Interrogation of second engineer of raider indicates vessel probably raider G repeat George number 41 “STEIENMARK”. Carried one AR 196 damaged prior to action. States no reconnaissance Geraldton or Pearce. Considered not to have been in Pacific.237

233 NAA.026.0015 234 SPC.006.0056; NAA.016.0001 at 0058 235 SPC.006.0057; NAA.016.0001 at 0058 236 NAA.026.0300 237 NAA.026.0299









1742H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Request “AQUITANIA” position when survivors were recovered’.238

1742H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Catalina search completed and negative 0847Z/27’.239

1742H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Catalina search completed and negative’.240


G 1/28 carry out parallel track search Four Service Flying Training School Onslow flight 5 commencing 2230Z/27 Datum 20 08 S 114 00 E 20 08 S 113 51 E 20 08 S 113 40 E 20 08 S 113 28 E 20 08 S 113 17 E direction of parallel tracks 189° true distances 250 miles returning Carnarvon object locate ships boats or rafts Acknowledge241


02/28 Carry out parallel track search Four Service Flying Training School Carnarvon flight commencing 2230Z/27 Datum 24 14 S 112 03 E 24 14 S 112 14 E 21 14 S 112 25 E. Direction 009° True distance 250 miles returning to Onslow object to locate ships boats or rafts Acknowledge.242

1805H SWACH signalled PEARCE, the Central War Room and NWACH, ‘3 Hudson aircraft from Darwin located at Port Hedland are to come under control of Pearce’.243

238 SPC.006.0059 239 SPC.006.0060 240 NAA.026.0297 241 NAA.026.0296; NAA.016.0001 at 0059 242 NAA.026.0294 243 NAA.026.0293; NAA.016.0001 at 0059











F1/28 Carry out parallel track search Port Hedland flight three Hudsons 2315Z/27 Datum 20°08’S 112°31’E 20°08’S 112°20’E 20°08’S 112°09’E. Direction of parallel traces 189° True distance along track 250 miles return to Carnarvon. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge.244


P2/28 Search the area bounded by the following points 20 08 S 110 58 E 20 08 S 112 03 E 24 14 S 111 22 E 24 14 S 110 15 E 2315Z/27 three aircraft from Carnarvon on

step aside parallel track using visibility five. Object locate ships boats or rafts.245

1834H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA, ‘Request Master TROCUS be informed of new secret call sign vide A G M 1121A/26’.246


“KOOLINDA” picked up one boat containing 31 men 70 miles northward and westward of Carnarvon and has retained them on board guard consisting of troops returning from Darwin. 103 men at? Carnarvon from 2 boats beached to north of Carnarvon. “CENTAUR” is towing 2 boats containing 63 men to Carnarvon. “YANDRA” picked up one boat containing 70 German and 2 Chinese and is proceeding to Carnarvon. All remaining prisoners at Carnarvon and military guard are being brought to Fremantle in “CENTAUR”.247


Z 60 27/11

P 3/28 24 14 S 110 15 E 24 14 S 113 22 E 25 34 S 113 22 E 25 34 S 110 15 E 2200Z/27. Two aircraft from Carnarvon on step aside parallel track doing four legs each. Object locate ships boats or rafts (acknowledge).248

244 NAA.026.0292; NAA.016.0001 at 0059 245 SPC.006.0064 246 NAA.074.0227 247 NAA.026.0290 248 SPC.006.0066; NAA.016.0001 at 0059









1913H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled Pearce (R) CWR ordering search area 24°34S 110°00E 24°34S 113°00E 28°00S 114°00E 28°00S 110°00E commencing 2230 Z /27(.) Search to be carried out by two Catalinas using best visibility (.) Object locate ships boats & rafts = 1113 Z /27’.249

1925H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P2/27 completed and negative 1106Z/27’.250

1927H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P/4/28 search the area bounded by lines joining the following points 24 34 S 110 00 E 2434 S 113 00 E 28 00 S 114 00 E 28 00 S 110 00 E 2230Z/27 Search to be carried out by two Catal-ina’s using best visibility. Object locate ships rafts or boats. Acknowledge’.251

2010H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal from P39 = Ship 0591 signals having picked up RAN lifebelt position 2306S-11047E = 2010H’.252

2016H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Ship “EVAGORAS” reports to aircraft at 1135/27 having picked up RAN life-belt in position 2306S - 1104E’.253

2025H The Central War Room signalled SWACH, ‘Desire search following area by Catalinas 28 Nov. Latitude 22 south longitude 109 east. Latitude 22 south longitude 111 east. Latitude 24 south longitude 111 east. Latitude 24 south longitude 109 east. Object SYDNEY or ships boats’.254

2054H The SWACH log records, ‘From Pearce = 27/11 P3/27 complete. Report one RAN lifebelt sighted’.255

2058H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘Correction to my 1216Z/27 position of lifebelt 24 06 S 110 49 E’.256

249 NAA.016.0001 at 0059 250 NAA.026.0288; NAA.016.0001 at 0059 251 SPC.006.0067 252 NAA.016.0001 at 0059 253 NAA.026.0286; NAA.016.0001 at 0059 254 SPC.006.0068 255 NAA.016.0001 at 0059 256 SPC.006.0069; NAA.016.0001 at 0060













2105H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P 3/27 completed finding of R.A.N. lifebelt by ship “EVAGORAS” reported see my 1216Z/27’.257


Raider Captain can confirm previous reports with addition that action took place Latitude 26°31’ longitude 111° “SYDNEY’s” 2 torpedoes missed. Raider’s torpedo hit forward and salvo amidships? “SYDNEY” badly on fire action began 19th at 1600 broken off 1830 raider struck in engine room and on fire. “SYDNEY” last seen turning behind smoke screen turning 153° 5 miles from raider and steering south 5 knots. Raider had 25 killed remainder of 400 in boats and rafts experienced bad weather endeavouring to obtain further information.258

2120H Wilson’s Promontory Station signalled the Naval Board, ‘Have intercepted your message. 22nd. November 2230 G.M.T. Lat. 024°35’ sth. Longitude 110°57’ east rescued(?) 26 Germans from raft wind force 5 sth. east. They report cruiser on fire. (Originator did not give name but evidently “AQUITANIA”.)’259

2150H The SWACH log records, ‘Signal to CWR – P53/27 completed. Finding of RAN lifebelt by ship 0591 reported. See my 1216Z/27 = 1305Z’.260

2204H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘NODECO. 03/27 completed and negative 1130Z/27 one aircraft overdue at Onslow’.261

2223H The SWACH log records, ‘To CWR = G3/27 completed & negative 1130Z/27 one aircraft overdue at Onslow = 1404Z/27’.262

257 SPC.006.0070 258 SPC.006.0071 259 SPC.006.0049 260 NAA.016.0001 at 0060 261 NAA.026.0279 262 NAA.016.0001 at 0060








2315H The SWACH log records, ‘To Pearce (R) CWR = Cancel my 1113Z/27. P4/28 – SNA- 2200S - 10900E-2200S - 11100E - 2400S - 11100E – 2400 S - 10900E - 0001 Z/28. Search to be carried out by 2 Catalinas using best visibility. Object SYDNEY or ships boats = 1455Z/27’.263

2354H The Naval Officer-in-Charge, Fremantle, signalled TROMP and the Central War Room:

A Royal Australian Navy lifebelt was picked up in position 024°06’ south 110 49’ east at dusk today Thursday “WYRALLAH” “HEROS” and “OLIVE CAM” ordered to be in thisposition by daylight tomorrow Friday. “WYRALLAH” is to conduct search in vicinity of this position.264

Friday 28 November

0010H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘Cancel my 1030Z/27 P 2/28 search between following positions – 20 08 S 111 42 20 08 S 112 03 E 24 14 S 111 22 24 14 S 111 00 E. Search to commence at 2315Z/27. Object: locate SYDNEY or ships boats’.265


Z 75 27/11

Officer in charge Anson flight Onslow to direct search for Anson W 2114 using all serviceable Ansons Onslow. Garnet to carry out search coast line Carnarvon Onsl-ow to come under orders O C flight on arrival Onslow searches to commence daylight 28/11.266

0030H The SWACH log records, ‘Received copy of Naval Signal. To P4.0 from “Wyrallah” = at 0001Z/28th position 024°10’S, 110°54’E, picked up foreign Rapok lifebelt colour black indication been on fire pieces of shrapnel stuck = 0010Z/28’.267

263 NAA.016.0001 at 0060 264 SPC.006.0073 265 SPC.006.0074 266 NAA.026.0273 267 NAA.016.0001 at 0062








Received following naval message from H.M.A.S. “Wyrallah” = picked up inflated R.A.N. type life belt at 1815H mark OTRC 11/39 stencilled on rubber. No name. Securing tape knotted but snapped. Position 024 degrees 22 minutes South 110 degrees 49 minutes East. Searching the area = 1030Z/27268


Cancel my 0943Z/27 and 0949Z/27 G 1/28 Carry out parallel track search Two Wirraways Carnarvon flight E.T.D. 2230Z/27. Datum 24 14 S 112 44 E 24 14 S 112 55 E Direction 009° true to a distance of 250 miles returning to Onslow object locate ships boats or rafts.269


Received copy of Naval Signal to “DNO” from “SO(1)”= Raider Captain can confirm previous report with addition action took place latitude 26 deg 32 mins south long 111 degrees “Sydney’s” two torpedoes missed. Raider torpedo hit forward & salvo amidships. Sydney badly on fire. Action began 19th at 1600 broke off at 1830. Raider struck in engine room and on fire. “Sydney” last seen turning behind smoke screen bearing 153 degrees 5 miles from Raider and steering south 5 knots. Raider had 25 killed remainder of 400 in boats or rafts experienced bad weather. Endeavouring obtain further information = 1315Z/27.270

0100H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron:

Summary of information obtained from prisoner survivors ex “TROCAS”.

Part 1 of my 1700Z/27. My 1909Z/25 to Admiralty and C.in C.China only.

(a) “KORMORANT” steering north in approx. position 24°111°E sighted from starboard bow “SYDNEY” steering south at about 1600H 19th. Raider altered course to the Westward, bringing cruiser on to

268 NAA.016.0001 at 0061 269 SPC.006.0075 270 NAA.016.0001 at 0061





starboard quarter. Cruiser altered course to the Westward, closed rapidly challenging with daylight lamp. Raider made no reply but opened fire when cruiser was within comparatively short range. Estimated range varies from about 1 to 5 or 6 miles. (1556Z/27)

Part 2 of my 1700Z/27. One survivor stated he could see men on deck of cruiser. First shot from raider hit cruiser’s bridge and started fire. Cruiser altered course to port. Survivors stated that it appeared that he intended to ram. Passed close round stern of raider and proceeded on parallel course, gradually drawing ahead on port side of the raider. Cruiser was now heavily on fire in bridge and midships section. Raider also badly damaged and on fire in engine room area. Hit in engine room, put electrical controls out of action. Literally all electrical equipment, including fire fighting, inoperative. Action commenced at about 1730 and lasted for about one hour. (1625Z/27).

Part 3 of my 1700Z/27. Raider abandoned ship at about 1900H, her reason that fire could not be put out, and it was certain that fire would reach ammunition stowage. Survivors stated Captain and officers were on board when they abandoned ship at about 1900. At this time cruiser was seen heavily on fire and shortly afterwards disappeared. No violent explosion was seen or heard. They believe she was torpedoed. Three torpedoes were fired by the raider, one of which thought to have hit. Raider blew up about midnight. (1640Z/27)

(b) ARMAMENT. 6 – 15centimetre guns, 4 – 2 centimetre A/A guns Machine guns not used.

2 above water and 1 submerged torpedo tube. One aeroplane of RODA type stated to have been damaged and not flown for three months, and possibly more were carried. 150/200 mines were carried, but stated that none had been laid.

(c) Complement about 400. Morale good. High opinion of ship and captain.

(d) Activity. Left Dodhausen near Danzig December 1940, proceeded north about to Atlantic and Indian Ocean via Cape of Good Hope. Ships sunk stated as “ANTONIOS”, “AFRICA STAR”, “AGNITA”, “RAFTSAN”, “BRITISH UNION”, “MAREEBA”,


“VELEBIT”, “STOMATICOS”, “EMBIRICOS”, “NIKOKLIS” (Not identified. (1650Z/27)

Part 5 of my 1700Z/27. Survivors stated they had not sighted any land since leaving Norwegian coast. Two supply ships met with. Prisoners transferred to these, as also to “RADOLITE”, which ship was despatched with a prize crew.

(e) Generally considered that, with few exceptions, survivors spoke the truth. Captain’s name Dettmer (Commander of destroyer prior to taking command of raider) captain is prisoner at Carnarvon and will be questioned with other survivors.271

0145H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P 6/28 search the area between following positions 20 08 S 112 38 E 20 08 S 113 23 E 24 14 S 112 42 E 24 14 S 111 57 E Search to commence at 2230Z/27. Object locate ships boats or rafts’.272


Following is correct version of Z.74 27/11. Cancel my 1113Z/27 P4/28 search between following positions: 2200 22°00’S 109°00’E 22°00’111°00E 24°00S 111°00’E 24°00’S 109°00’E. Search to commence at 0001Z/28. Search to be carried out by two Catalinas using best visibility. Object SYDNEY or ships boats.273

0229H The SWACH log records, ‘Received copy of naval signal. To D.N.O. from “Wyrallah” = Picked up two Carley floats one German body badly decomposed buried at sea supplied stripped all effects = 0106Z/28’.274

0301H The Naval Board signalled C-in-C Batavia, TROMP and DNOWA:

Air searches 28/11. To cover area bounded by following points. North West Cape.

28°08’ South 113°51’ east 20°08’ South 110°58’ east 22°00’ South 110°30’ east 22°00’ South 109°00’ east

271 SPC.006.0076 to 0079; NAA.070.0233 to 0235 272 SPC.006.0080; NAA.016.0001 at 0061 273 SPC.006.0081 274 NAA.016.0001 at 0062








24°00’ South 109°00’ east 24°14’ South 110°15’ east 25°34’ South 100°15’ east 25°34’ South 113°22’ east

Object locate “SYDNEY” or ships boats.275


Cleared signal ordering P7/28=P7/28 Search area bounded by lines joining 24°00S 109°00’E-24°00S 113°20’E-26°00’ 113°20’E-26°00S 109°00E- To commence at 0715Z. Six aircraft to be used five miles visibility. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge = 0407Z/28276

0510H LCDR Rycroft, at Carnarvon, signalled the Naval Board:

Number of prisoners of war 103 Carnarvon 60 “Centaur” expect 72? Yandra most fit Survey of ship shows impracticable separate each boat load and could not take? men without discharging and leaving cargo behind. Ship carrying inflammable cargo Master concerned about security with 50 soldiers to cover several points. Request approval to place all ratings number 2 lower hold officers in number 3 between deck both empty then consider guard sufficient. Raider Captain’s story follows immediately.277

0639H The District Naval Officer South Australia signalled the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron, the 2nd Naval Member and DNOWA, ‘From 1st naval member begins Consider it desirable you proceed Fremantle by air to make complete investigation and report regarding “H.M.A.S. Sydney”. Commander Dechaineux leaves by air today also’.278

0821H The Naval Board signalled EVAGORAS, ‘Proceed immediately to position 21° S 30’ E and search for aeroplane’.279

275 NAA.026.0265 276 NAA.016.0001 at 0062 277 NAA.026.0160 278 NAA.026.0251 279 NAA.026.0159







0858H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA, ‘Cancel my 0021Z/28 and 0156Z/28. Ships to proceed on voyage’.280

0935H The SWACH log records, ‘Rcd. phone for Pearce: from Carnarvon= owing to heavy dusk haze and heavy wind all A/C must be on ground before dark will you signal all A/C accordingly’.281

0956H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA, ‘My 0021Z/28 to “Evagoras”. “Cape Otway” should also search if in vicinity’.282

1017H C-in-C Singapore signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C Netherlands, ‘My 0756 27th. Admiralty states German rumours not repetition not connected with H.M.A.S. “Sydney” and comment is therefore incorrect’.283

1022H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron:

My 1700Z/27 raider Captain confirms previous reports with addition that action took place latitude 26°31’ longitude 111°. “Sydney’s” two torpedoes missed. Raider’s torpedo hit forward and salvo amidships. SYDNEY badly on fire. Action began 19th at 1600. Broken off 1830. Raider struck in engine room and on fire. “SYDNEY” last seen turning behind smoke screen turning 153° 5 miles from raider and steering south 5 knots. Raider had 25 killed. Remainder of 400 in boats and rafts experienced bad weather.284

1031H The SWACH log records, ‘Cleared signal to: Pearce (R) CWR = P2/29 low altitude search all beaches Carnarvon Port Headland 29/11. P3/29 low altitude search all beaches Geraldton Carnarvon. Object wreckage. Wirraway A/C. Acknowledge = 1031Z/28’.285

280 NAA.026.0152 281 NAA.016.0001 at 0063 282 NAA.026.0155 283 SPC.006.0088 284 SPC.006.0089 285 NAA.016.0001 at 0063








1035H The ‘Netherlands Indies C. in C.’ signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China, ‘Air reconnaissance 27th November reported nothing particular’.286

1058H The Naval Board signalled DNOWA, ‘Cancel my 0021Z/28 and 0156Z/28. Ships to proceed on voyage’.287

1059H The SWACH log records, ‘Cleared signal to Pearce (R) CWR = P4/29 – SNA – 24°00’S 109°00’E - 24°00’S 113°20’E - 25°43’S 113°20’E - 25°43’S 109°00’E – 2145Z/28. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge = 1046Z/28’.288

1110H The Naval Board signalled EVAGORAS, ‘Cancel my 0021Z/28. Proceed on voyage’.289

1140H The Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney) signalled the Naval Board and the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron, ‘“Aquitania” (British) arrived’.290

1200H The SWACH log records, ‘Cleared signal to Pearce (R) CWR – P5/29-SSV-B2100Z/28- area 30 miles radius position 24°00’S 110°54’E. Search to be carried out by Catalina. Object rafts and wreckage. Acknowledge 1150Z/28’.291

1202H The SWACH log records, ‘Cleared signal to Pearce (R) CWR- P6/29-SSV-B-2100Z/28 area 60 miles radius position 28°00’S 110°00’E. Search to be carried out by Catalina. Object rafts and wreckage. Acknowledge – 1155Z/28’.292


Z.81 28/11

Search area bounded by 2400S 10900E 2400S 11320E 2600S 11320E 2600S 10900E 0715Z. Six aircraft to be used, five miles visibility. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Acknowledge.293

286 NAA.026.0264 287 NAA.026.0152 288 NAA.016.0001 at 0063 289 NAA.026.0151 290 NAA.070.0169 291 NAA.016.0001 at 0064 292 NAA.016.0001 at 0064 293 SPC.006.0090











Further result of search. Wyrallah picked up at approximately 0001Z 28 with vicinity 024° south 110°54’ east foreign life belt, 2 Carley floats and 1 German body. Type Carley float being investigated. Raft picked up by Trocas was pnhumatic [sic].294


Rcd NR88 fm Pearce – 28/11 P4/27 Completed. A24-11 saw patch of oil 5 miles SE of position of reported action. A24-14 saw patch of oil outside his search area. Passed information by V/S to two search vessels. Position of smoke approx. 26°18’S 113°30’E= 1304Z/26295

1400H Staff Officer (Intelligence) Wellington signalled HMS ACHILLES, HMS LEANDER, HMS MONOWAI, the Naval Officer-in-Charge Auckland and the Royal Navy Office Suva:

My 0532Z 28. German naval survivors state armament of raider six 15 centimetres guns four centimetres anti-aircraft guns. Torpedo tubes 2 above water and 1 submerged. 1 aeroplane and possibly more types indefinite probably Arado. 150 to 200 mines carried none laid. Complement 400 morale good high opinion ship. Left Baltic December 1940 and proceeded Indian Ocean via Cape of Good Hope. Fired 3 torpedoes and claim 1 hit on SYDNEY. Action took place at 1730 H 19. Raider abandoned ship at 1900 and she blew up at mid-night. H.M.A.S. Sydney disappeared from view but no violent explosion seen.296

1404H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron:

My 1700Z/27 Part 4. Amend ships sunk to read “Antonios” “Afric Star” “Agnitas” “Craftsman” “British Union” “Mareeba” “Velebit” “S.G.Embiricos” “Eurylochus”. Part 5 “Radolite” believed to refer to “Canabolite”.297

294 SPC.006.0092 295 NAA.016.0001 at 0064 296 NAA.026.0095 297 SPC.006.0097






1436H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P2/28 Completed 0505 Z Olive Cam sighted in position 2435S 11207E at 2347Z/27. Heros sighted in position 2445S 1111E at 0011Z/28 and again in position 2422S 11128E at 0340Z/28’.298

1440H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P 5/28 Completed 0430/Z/28 Anson located’.299

1449H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘Further to my 0456Z/28. P6/28 sighted Tromp in position 2005S 11242E steering 050 speed 20 knots at 0130Z/28’.300

1555H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘GI/28 Completed and negative 0215Z’.301

1611H The Naval Board signalled the Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney):

Your 0447Z/28 Agree further information as follows. Begins. Now known “SYDNEY” suffered direct hit bridge caught fire early in action. She pressed attack fiercely and disabled raider after hour’s fight. Raider’s crew abandoned ship which blew up. “SYDNEY” last seen badly afire. Air and sea search continuing but only evidence “SYDNEY” one life belt. Ship presumed lost. Interrogation of prisoners proceeding but hampered by difficulties such as distance. Ends.302


Suggest search of following areas 29th Nov. Area A 30 miles radius posn. 24S 110 54 E. Naval auxiliary vessels should support aircraft in this area. Area B 60 miles radius posn. 28S 110 E. Object rafts and wreckage. Suggest square search by Catalina if serviceability permits Area C low altitude search all beaches Geraldton Port Hedland. Object wreckage.303

298 SPC.006.0099 299 NAA.040.0258 300 SPC.006.0101 301 SPC.006.0102 302 NAA.026.0255 303 SPC.006.0106








1612H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron, ‘My 1700Z/27 Consider “Kormoran” was raider “G” (no 41) Namely “Steiermark”) (Vide C.A.F.O. 422 No.645). 2nd Engineer states vessel was “Steiermark’.304

1631H The Australian Naval Liaison Officer Batavia signalled the Naval Board and C-in-C China, ‘Your 1700 27th November Master of Gorgon left Geraldton 21st November and Onslow 23rd Nov. Thence to Bali Strait Seen nothing’.305

1649H The Naval Board signalled the Naval Officer-in-Charge Darwin, the Rear Admiral Commanding the Australian Squadron and DNOWA:

For 1st N.M. D.N.O. S.A.’s 2239Z/27 not to NOIC Darwin or D.N.O.W.A. Observing (1) Information now at our disposal and which has been passed to you (2) One prisoner has described six actions with merchant ships (details not yet received) (3) Captain and First Lieutenant of Raider arriving Fremantle by road on Sunday. (4) R.A.C.A.S. could not proceed before Sunday (except by RAAF plane) and would therefore arrive after Dechaineux investigation. Consider all relevant information will have been obtained under present arrangements. R.A.C.A.S. concurs but air passage arranged and ready to proceed if you still so desire. Request early reply.306

Time unknown

Author unknown:

“Yandra” with one boatload of survivors, leaves Carnarvon mid-day today (28th November), due Fremantle Monday (1st December). It contains one officer, who is an excellent witness and has described six actions with merchant ships. The Captain and First Lieutenant are coming down by road and due in Fremantle on Sunday (30th November).

The “Centaur” is leaving at noon today with the remainder, who have been kept separate and are due in Fremantle on Monday (30th November).307

304 SPC.007.0042 305 SPC.006.0108 306 NAA.026.0248 307 NAA.026.0250






1717H SWACH signalled No. 4 Service Flying Training School, PEARCE and the Central War Room:

Search GI/29 – parallel track search with four Geraldton Ansons (1, 2, 3 & 4) commencing at 2215Z/28. Position of datum points 22°00’S 113°35’E and 22°00’S 112°44’E. Distance between tracks 15 miles. Course 180° true. Distance along parallel tracks 120 miles. Return to Carnarvon.308

1725H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘P3/28 Completed 0647Z sighted Whyralla in position 2418S 11044E at 0220E sighted “Sunetta” in position 2438S 11232E 0400Z’.309


“Koolinda” with 31 prisoners due Fremantle 0001Z/29. “Centaur” sailed with 162 prisoners due Fremantle 2300Z/29 H.M.A.S. Yandra sailed from Carnarvon 0345Z/28 with 72 due Fremantle P.M. 30 H.M.A.S. “Wyrallah” “Heros” and “Olive Cam” searching West North West Carnarvon a nothing further sighted a no further details yet available about carlefloat [sic] a Captain and First Lieutenant Kormoran. Proceeding by road Fremantle due pm 30.310


P1/29 Search the area bounded by lines joining the following positions 22 00 S 111 00 N 22 00 S 112 35 E 24 00 S 112 35 E 24 00 S 111 00 E 2215Z/28 Step aside parallel tracks repeated using two Hudsons. Object locate ships boats and rafts.311

1831H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P/2/29 Low altitude search all beaches Carnarvon Port Hedland 29/11. P3/29 Low altitude search all beaches Carnarvon Geraldton. Object wreckage. Wirraway aircraft’.312

308 SPC.006.0110 309 NAA.026.0246 310 SPC.006.0112 311 SPC.006.0113 312 SPC.006.0114








Search the area bounded by the lines joining the following points: 24 00 S 108 00 S 24 00 S 113 20 E (?) 25 43 S 113 20 E 25 43 S 109 00 E … To commence 2146Z/28 Five aircraft to be used five miles visibility. Object locate ships boats or rafts.313

1920H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P1/28 (1/68?) completed and negative 0732Z/28’.314

1950H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘P5/29 Conduct a square search. Time of take off 2100Z/28 Area 30 miles radius position 24 00 S 110 54 E. Search to be carried out by Catalina. Object rafts and wreckage’.315

1955H SWACH signalled PEARCE and the Central War Room, ‘Pearce 6/29. Conduct a square search. Take off 2100Z/25 over an area 60 miles radius position 28 00 S 110 00E Search to be carried out by Catalina. Object rafts and wreckage’.316

2121H The Naval Board signalled the District Naval Officer Northern Territory:

For C.N.S. result of air searches today for survivors H.M.A.S. “Sydney” has been negative. In the sea search H.M.A.S. “Wyrallah” in position 160 miles north west of Carnarvon picked up today (a) foreign life belt (b) 2 Carley floats (Nationality being investigated) (c) 1 R.A.N. lifebelt. Continuing sea and air searches tomorrow, 29 November.317

2142H The Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron signalled the Naval Board, the Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney) and DNOWA:

… Following report from preliminary interrogation. (i) raider number 41 with 6 15 centimetre guns and 2 torpedo tubes. (ii) carried mines but none repetition none believed to have been laid. (iii) no British prisoners on board when sunk These stated to have

313 NAA.040.0242 314 NAA.040.0241 315 NAA.040.0240 316 NAA.040.0239 317 SPC.006.0120







been transferred to German merchant ship some months ago. (iv) no captures within last 2 months. (v) Regarding action with “SYDNEY” majority of survivors were between decks at time and their evidence which in general agrees is probably the result of discussion minority before(?) Being picked up by(?) “Aquitania”. (vi) Action lasted about 1 hour raider received bad hit in engine room and is scuttled and abandoned. (vii) Survivors know nothing of “Sydney’s” fate but stated ship badly on fire and had been hit forward by torpedo early in action. (viii) Lowest range reported as 1500 yards.318

2148H SWACH signalled the Central War Room, ‘P/428 Completed an negative 1050Z’.319

2256H The 1st Naval Member signalled the Naval Board, the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron and DNOWA, ‘Your 0849Z/28 As present evidence is so unsatisfactory I consider F.O.C.A.S. should proceed Fremantle to re-investigate’.320

No time Report no. 96 of the Chief of Naval Staff:

1. Operations

H.M.A.S. “Sydney”- Action with German Raider:

Interrogation of rescued survivors from a German Raider indicate that she was brought into action by H.M.A.S. “Sydney” at 1730 on 19th November, in a position approximately 150 miles West-North-West of Carnarvon (W.A.). The Raider was sunk by gunfire, and they state that H.M.A.S. “Sydney” was set on fire and sank later.

Searches by 4 of H.M.A. Ships specially despatched from Fremantle, and by numerous aircraft, have so far only led to the recovery of 1 R.A.N. lifeboat, and no other trace of H.M.A.S. “Sydney” or her Ship’s Company has been found.

Approximately 300 survivors from the Raider have been rescued, and will be closely questioned.

318 SPC.006.0121 319 NAA.070.0120 320 NAA.026.0237





The Commander-in-Chief, Netherlands East Indies is co-operating in searches by sea and air to the northward of North West Cape.321

The 28 November report of the Chief of Air Staff:

…

24th November.

Aircraft from PEARCE searched the area between bearings 270° and 340° from datum ROTTNEST ISLAND and to a distance of 300 miles to seaward.

25th November.

Aircraft from PEARCE carried out reconnaissance to seaward between GERALDTON and CARNARVON in order to locate surface vessels. A Catalina left both MORESBY and TOWNSVILLE for Perth via Darwin, flying overnight.

26th November.

Two Catalinas arrived PERTH A.M. and carried out searches P.M. to locate surface vessels westward of GERALDTON …322


0200H The SWACH log records, ‘Petrol position at Carnarvon 1000 gals at aerodrome 4000 gals arriving 0700Z. 4000 gals arriving during night 29/30. 10000 gals to follow later’.323


CWR from SWACHQ – Wyrallah reports Carley floats were obviously foreign Heros reports picking up RAN type Carley float at 0300Z/28 in position 02407S-11058E badly damaged by gunfire. Olive Cam returning to Geraldton. Heros will have to return after today. Wyrallah continuing search. Gunbar being sent from Fremantle = 0100Z/29’.324

321 NAA.018.0319 322 NAA.018.0325 323 NAA.016.0001 at 0065 324 NAA.016.0001 at 0065







A message passed by phone from Pearce. To ACH’s Melb. Townsville, Darwin, Fremantle from CWR. C 261 29/11. Air sit rep S:E enemy forces. Enemy surface raider probably [illegible] 41 encountered “HM Sydney” about 200m West Carnarvon 0930Z/19. Raider abandoned after brief action. Air reconnaissances commencing 25/11 have failed locate Sydney. About 200 enemy survivors have been collected and interrogation proceeding. Our forces 2 Catalinas from Moresby. 3 Hudsons from Darwin moved to Carnarvon for Headland area to assist search. General intelligence. Japanese believed to have increased air forces Hanan and Indo-China to 200 aircraft at each. Fremantle for record = 2340Z/28.325


By phone from Pearce = Hudson (P4) at 2304Z/28 saw 2 patrol vessels pos. 2400S-11047E on parallel co. 030° 1 mile apart, at 2325Z in response to signal returned at 2348Z, intercepted again asked for nationality life floats. Received reply 1 British, 2 German. Nothing more to report, signal passed by radio.326

0320H The SWACH log records, ‘CWR from SWACH = Request Catalinas be released 30/11 for 1 day for maintenance & serviceability = 0323Z/29’.327

0320H The SWACH log records, ‘From Wirraway at Buslow: sighted trawler, 225 ° North West Cape 1 mile. Name Cape Otway 1000 tons, grey F? M? British flag steering 235 ° Also plank approx [illegible] 3 feet on beach 1 mile east Pt. Cloates’.328


To Pearce (R) CWR = P7/29-SNA-2600S-10919E-2600S-11305E-28245-11415E-2824S-11030E-0630Z/29 Parallel track step aside using 6A/C. At completion aircraft to search HOUTMAN ROCKS. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Aircraft to land Geraldton.329

325 NAA.016.0001 at 0065 326 NAA.016.0001 at 0065 327 NAA.016.0001 at 0065 328 NAA.016.0001 at 0066 329 NAA.016.0001 at 0066







0416H The SWACH log records, ‘From Pearce = 29/11 P4/29 completed. Wyrallah contacted 2400S-11047E 2348Z/28 and reported nationality floats 1 British 2 German = 0403Z/29’.330

0429H The SWACH log records, ‘To CWR (R) Pearce = P4/29 completed. Wyrallah contacted 2400S-11047E and reported nationality floats one British 2 German = 0425Z/29’.331


ACH.F. from CWR (by phone from WA) C262 29/11. Search for SYDNEY to cease on conclusion operations 29/11 unless sighting or new intelligence indicates for further search aircraft from Darwin to return home station. Catalinas return home station Tuesday 2/12. Advise Darwin & Townsville of E.T.D. – 0340Z/29.332


CWR from S.W.A.C.H. Q. = intelligence to date thought to refer to HMAS SYDNEY (a) 1 RAN lifeboat picked up by EVAGORAS in position 2406S-11049E at about 1000Z/27. (b) WYRALLAH picked up inflated RAN type life boat in pos. 2422S 11049E at 1015Z/27. OTRC 11/39 stencilled on rubber. Securing tape knotted but snapped. (c) Heros picked up RAN type Carley float at 0300Z/28 in position 02407S 11058E. Carley float badly damaged by gunfire = 0405Z/29.333

0527H The Admiralty signalled the Naval Board, C-in-C China and C-in-C East Indies:

Your 1700 Z 27. Raider would appear to be number 41 (G of? Raider supplement to WIR).

(ii). Information appears to be correct. ANTONIS (Greece) sunk about 7th January south of Cape Verde Is. British Union 18th January in 026° north 031° west. “AFRIC STAR” (Brit) 29 January in 008° north 025° west. Had rendezvous with NORDMARK in about 023° south 010° west about 18 February. Transferred prisoners to her. “CRAFTSMAN” (Brit) on 9th April in about 003° south 021° west. “NICOLAOS D L” (Greece)

330 NAA.016.0001 at 0066 331 NAA.016.0001 at 0066 332 NAA.016.0001 at 0066 333 NAA.016.0001 at 0066






in 020° south 022° west on 12 April. Rendezvous with “ALSTERUFER” and 16 in about 022° south 000° west on 19 May.

Part 2 of my 2227 follows. (2225A/28)

Probably transferred prisoners to “ALSTER UFER” (?) and received supplies. “VELEBIT” (Y.Slav) and “MAREEBA” (Brit) 26 Oct in about 007° north 088° east. “STAMATIOS G. EMBIRICOS” (Greece), about 26 September? In Maldives area.

(iii). Request information following points: (a) Did she attack “EURYLOCHUS” (Brit) in company with raider 10 on 29 January. (b) Movements June to November. (c) Was raider in Pacific August and September number 45 (b) or 16? (c) or another. (d) confirmation identity G and further details ship. (e) information about any other raiders or supply ships especially those at present at sea. C. In China pass to C.Z.M. …334


Pearce from SWACH: For OC. Catalinas from A.O.C.W.A. Both Catalinas to return to home base Tuesday 2nd December, search having now been concluded. Suggest depart Geraldton PM 1st December. Thanks again for your cooperation. Advise ETD = 0740Z/29.335


WYRALLAH reports Carley Floats were obviously foreign. Heros reports picking 1 R.A.N. type Carley Float at 0300Z 28 in position 024°07’ south 110°58’ east badly damaged by gunfire. “Olive Cam” returning to Geraldton HEROS will have to return after today. WYRALLAH continuing search. GUNBAR being sent up from Fremantle.336


P 7/29 endless chain patrol Hudson of No.14 squadron C A/I 14C as soon as possible object locate WYRALLAH and SUNETTA if in vicinity Shark Bay. Obtain from WYRALLAH nationality of Carley Floats

334 SPC.006.0122 335 NAA.016.0001 at 0067 336 NAA.026.0114





picked up 28/11. Obtain from SUNETTA repetition of message made to Wirraway 28/11 Wyrallah to pass any information to SUNETTA call sign HQGL SUNETTA to relay information received by wireless from 9RNK WYRALLAH. WYRALLAH within 20 miles radius 2405S 11050E.337


Naval situation 0400Z [1200H] today Saturday “Olive Cam” has left and “Heros” is leaving search area today because of fuel “Yandra” is due Fremantle tomorrow Sunday with prisoners “Wyrallah” is searching position of recovery life belt and Carley Float “Gunbar” sailed direct for position of action and thence as ordered “Alfie Cam” alone remaining for sweeping or patrol(?) until “Olive Cam” returns. Further movements “Yandra” will be decided on situation after ship arrives and fuelling. “Bonthorpe” refitting.338


Search for SYDNEY to cease on conclusion operations 29th November unless sightings or new intelligence indicates necessity for further search. Aircraft from Darwin to return home station. Catalinas return home station Tuesday 2nd December. Advise Darwin and Townsville of ETD …339

1149H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C Netherlands East Indies and the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron:

My 0222Z/28 on 28th November extensive searches by sea and air have been carried out in the area where it is assumed the action took place (2) The result of the air searches has been negative (3) in the sea search “Wyrallah” today in position 160 miles north west of Carnarvon picked up the following (a) one foreign life belt (b) two Carley Floats (nationality being investigated (c) One R.A.N. life belt (4) Further searches by sea and air being carried out 29th November.340

337 SPC.006.0129 338 NAA.026.0109 339 NAA.026.0104 340 NAA.026.0110







Intelligence to date thought to refer H.M.A.S. “Sydney” (a) One R.A.N.(?) life belt picked up by “Evagoras” in position 024°06’S 110°49’E at about 1000 Z 27th (b) W(+) picked up one inflated R.A.N. type life belt in position 024°22’S 110°49’E at 1015 Z 27th. OTRC 11/39 on rubber. Securing tape knotted but snapped (c) “Heros” picked up R.A.N. type Carley Float in position 024°07’S 110°58’E Carley Float badly damaged by gunfire.

(+ group indicated commence spelling but word not spelt, evidently intended “Whyralla”)341


P. 7/29 search the area bound by the lines joining the following positions 2600S 10919E 2600S 11305E 2824S 11415E 2824S 11030E 0630Z/29. Parallel track step aside using six aircraft. At completion aircraft to search Houtman Rocks. Object locate ships boats or rafts. Aircraft to land Geraldton.342

1225H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P4/29 completed. WYRALLA contacted 2400S – 11047E – 2348Z and reported nationality floats one British two German’.343

1259H DNOWA signalled the Naval Board, ‘Departure H.M.A.S. “Gunbar” 0430Z 29 for search area’.344

1301H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘1/29 Completed and negative 0450/Z/29’.345

1345H The SWACH log records, ‘Signalled CWR (R) Pearce: P7/29 completed & negative 1300Z/29. This completes air operations in connection Sydney. No further information of fresh sightings from Naval or other sources – 1345Z/29’.346

341 SPC.006.0136; NAA.026.0103 342 NAA.026.0102 343 SPC.006.0138 344 NAA.026.0099 345 SPC.006.0139; NAA.026.0097 346 NAA.016.0001 at 0067










1417H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P 6/29 Completed and negative’.347

1420H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘G 1/29 Completed and negative’.348

1524H The Naval Board signalled the Naval Officer Commanding (Sydney), ‘Request you investigate reasons which guided Aquitania in not reporting by W/T recovery of enemy survivors or closing Rottnest P.W.S.S. and reporting by V/S’.349

1636H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘Following is correct version 0836Z/29 and 1005Z/29 latter being repetition of former. Corruption caused by machine fault. P5/29 completed and negative’.350

1944H DNOWA signalled WYRALLAH, HEROS, GUNBAR and the Naval Board:

“Heros” returns Fremantle direct or via Geraldton if necessary. “Wyrallah” proceeding to Carnarvon and waiting there until arrival of “Gunbar” then returns to Fremantle. “Gunbar” proceeded to position 026° south 111° east thence to Carnarvon and waiting there until further orders. Acknowledge forthwith.351

2054H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the Flag Officer Commanding the Australian Squadron:

The N.B. regret that after intensive air and surface search of the area no evidence of H.M.A.S. Sydney has been sighted except two R.A.N. life belts and one Carley Float badly damaged by gunfire. It is concluded that SYDNEY sank after the action and further search has been abandoned.

(Above will also have to be passed to Canberra for the G.G., P.M. and Minister for Navy also Mr Sheddon. Also pass to N.O.I.C. Darwin for 1st N.M.)352

347 SPC.006.0141 348 SPC.006.0142 349 SPC.006.0144 350 SPC.006.0145 351 SPC.006.0147 352 NAA.026.0089








2145H SWACH signalled the Central War Room and PEARCE, ‘P7/29 Completed and negative 1300Z/29 This completes air operations in connection SYDNEY. No further information of fresh sighting from naval or shore sources’.353

Sunday 30 November

1334H The Naval Board signalled the Admiralty, C-in-C China, C-in-C East Indies and the New Zealand Naval Board, ‘My 0305Z/29 press cable agencies Australia informed overseas release will be through there at 1100Z 2nd December’.354

Conclusions

10.9 Details of all flights and voyages operated during the searches are contained in records in the archives the Inquiry inspected. After the search was completed, a chart was produced that showed:

• the limits of the air search

• the tracks flown by the aircraft involved in the search

• the paths taken by vessels sailing through the area looking for survivors.

That chart is reproduced here as Figure 10.1.355

The Inquiry had plotted on the chart the now known location of the wreck of SYDNEY. As is apparent, the area of the engagement and the location of SYDNEY’s sinking were traversed by aircraft during the search. Further, GUNBAR sailed close to the site, passing through between 1200H on 1 December and 1200H on 2 December 1941 without finding any survivors or wreckage.356

353 SPC.006.0149 354 NAA.026.0080 355 NAA.042.0009 356 NAA.042.0009






Figure 10.1 The search for SYDNEY357

10.10 The survivors of KORMORAN were recovered as follows:

357 NAA.042.0009

KS



• 23 November. AQUITANIA recovered 26 sailors at 24°35’S 110°57’E and proceeded to Melbourne.358

• 24 November. TROCAS recovered 25 sailors at 24°06’S 111°40’E.359

• 26 November. KOOLINDA recovered 31 sailors at 24°07’S 112°46’E.360

• 26 November. CENTAUR recovered two lifeboats containing 62 men at 24°39’S 112°15’E and towed the boats to Carnarvon.361

• 27 November. YANDRA recovered 72 sailors at 25°00’S 112°20’E and proceeded to Carnarvon.362

• Two lifeboats reached shore north of Carnarvon, at 17 Mile Well, Quobba, and Red Bluff.363 Army personnel collected the survivors on 27 November and took them to Carnarvon.364

The only relics recovered were one RAN life belt, a Carley float, one foreign life belt and two German-type floats containing the body of a German sailor, who was buried at sea.

Figure 10.2 shows the following:

• the location of the wrecks of SYDNEY and KORMORAN

• where the various ships recovered survivors

• where survivors made landfall

• where the floating relics were recovered.365

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation produced a similar chart showing the November 1941 search area and the location of relics of the battle; it is shown here as Figure 10.3.

10.11 Some commentators have criticised the search for SYDNEY, arguing it was inadequate or concentrated on the wrong area. These criticisms are without justification. It should be remembered that it was only on 27 November, at 2115H, that the searching authorities had confirmation from CAPT Detmers that ‘action took place latitude 26°31’ longitude

358 SPC.004.0254 at 0255 359 NAA.026.0451 360 WAM.010.0188 361 NAA.026.0348 362 AWM.005.0106; PINQ.REP.001.0001 at 0052 363 PINQ.REP.001.0001 at 0052 364 SPC.004.0254 at 0258 365 EXH.209.0001






http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/PINQ.REP.001.0001.pdf

http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/PINQ.REP.001.0001.pdf


http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/EXH.209.0001.pdf


111°’.366 It should also be remembered that—notwithstanding about 60 years’ research—at a 2001 conference (following the Parliamentary Inquiry) attended by all interested commentators no agreement could be reached about the likely location in which to try to find SYDNEY.367

10.12 The signals and charts show that a coordinated and systematic search was conducted in the vicinity of where the engagement occurred and of adjacent waters and coastlines. Relics from both SYDNEY and KORMORAN were found, and survivors from KORMORAN were located by ship and air, both in lifeboats and on shore where they landed. This suggests that, had there been survivors from SYDNEY, it is probable they too would have been found as a result of the search, even though the Carley float recovered at Christmas Island on 6 February 1942 was not seen during the search.

Figure 10.2 Location of lifeboats, survivors and relics found after the SYDNEY–KORMORAN

engagement368

366 SPC.006.0071 367 WAM.070.0010 at 0029 368 RAN.002.0173



http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/RAN.002.0173.pdf


Figure 10.3 November 1941 location of relics of the battle between SYDNEY and

KORMORAN369

369 DSTO.003.0001 at 0314

K S

http://www.defence.gov.au/sydneyii/FinalReport/Report/images/DSTO.003.0001.pdf

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