HMAS CESSNOCK
Maker
Allan D Armstrong
Date1999
Object number00040520
NameModel
MediumMetal, paper, wire, ink, string, plastic
Dimensions250 x 120 x 610 mm
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis model represents the Royal Australian Navy 'Bathurst class' minesweeper (corvette) HMAS CESSNOCK. CESSNOCK commenced duty in 1941 as an escort vessel protecting shipping between Townsville and New Guinea. In 1945 the ship joined the British Pacific Fleet for the remainder of the war and was present at the Japanese surrender ceremony in Tokyo Bay.HistoryThis model represents one of the 60 Australian minesweepers (commonly referred to as 'corvettes') which were built in Australian shipyards during World War II. Twenty corvettes were built for the British Admiralty (including CESSNOCK) but commissioned and manned by the RAN; 36 were built for the RAN and four for the Royal Indian Navy.
CESSNOCK commenced duty in 1941 as an escort vessel protecting the flow of shipping between Townsville and New Guinea; and also saw service in Western Australia undertaking anti-submarine patrols. Further service included patrols and escort duties with the British Eastern Fleet in the Persian Gulf, the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. In 1945 the ship (along with other corvettes) joined the British Pacific Fleet for the remainder of the war. CESSNOCK was one of those present in Tokyo for the Japanese surrender ceremony.
CESSNOCK was paid off 12 July 1946 and sold for scrap in Shanghai on 23 April 1947.SignificanceThis ship model is represents the Australian minesweepers which played such an important role in ensuring the safety of waterways and ports during World War II.
