A page from the HMAS Sydney log describing the battle, by an unknown sailor
While escorting the first convoy of ANZAC troops bound for Europe on 9 November 1914 the Royal Australian Navy light cruiser HMAS Sydney engaged the infamous German commerce raider SMS Emden. The two light cruisers fought a 90 minute battle. The Emden’s guns had more range and fired first, but Sydney’s more powerful main guns pounded the Emden until it was disabled and beached on North Keeling Island. The Royal Australian Navy’s first great test of war ended in a comprehensive victory.
The exhibition 'Test of War - Royal Australian Navy in WW1 will open at the Australian National Maritime Museum 12 September 2014 and run until May 2015.
A page from the HMAS Sydney log describing the battle, by an unknown sailor
While escorting the first convoy of ANZAC troops bound for Europe on 9 November 1914 the Royal Australian Navy light cruiser HMAS Sydney engaged the infamous German commerce raider SMS Emden. The two light cruisers fought a 90 minute battle. The Emden’s guns had more range and fired first, but Sydney’s more powerful main guns pounded the Emden until it was disabled and beached on North Keeling Island. The Royal Australian Navy’s first great test of war ended in a comprehensive victory.
The exhibition 'Test of War - Royal Australian Navy in WW1 will open at the Australian National Maritime Museum 12 September 2014 and run until May 2015.