Tuesday, March 18, 2008

'HMAS Sydney II' finally found

The 'HMAS Sydney II' has been found, 66 years after the entire ship's company perished following a furious engagement with the German raider 'HSK Kormoran' in November 1941.

The discovery lays to rest one of Australia's most enduring maritime mysteries and provides a final resting place for the families of the 645 members of 'HMAS Sydney II'. 'HMAS Sydney II' was found following the discovery of 'HSK Kormoran', approximately 112 nautical miles off Steep Point, Western Australia lying in 2,560 metres of water. The search first focused on finding the German raider 'Kormoran', which was located on March 12, approximately 112 nautical miles off Steep Point, Western Australia lying in 2,560 metres of water. The discovery of the main battle site, less than four nautical miles south of 'Kormoran's' position, was then used to direct the team's effort in searching for 'Sydney'. The wreck of the 'Sydney' has been confirmed, at approximately 12 nautical miles off 'Kormoran', under 2,470 metres of water. 'A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with video filming capabilities able to operate in depths of up to 3,000 metres will be deployed in order to further examine both wrecks of the 'Sydney' and 'Kormoran'.' The Minister for the Department of Environment, Water Heritage and the Arts is being consulted to ensure the wreck site is being protected.

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