HMAT PORT SYDNEY

Date1916 - 1918

Object number00028612

NamePrint

MediumColour lithograph on paper

DimensionsImage: 222 x 310 mm
Overall: 296 x 393 mm, 0.1 kg
Mount: 296 x 393 mm

ClassificationsPosters and postcards

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis is a print of PORT SYDNEY (A15). It was originally named STAR OF ENGLAND and was part of the first convoy to depart King George's Sound, Western Australia on 1 November, 1914. It carried troops and horses, including the 12th Battalion who were part of the initial landing at Gallipoli and later at the Western Front. It was renamed 'PORT SYDNEY' in 1916 and remained under lease to the Commonwealth until 22 September 1917. HistoryThe HMAT A15 was originally named STAR OF ENGLAND and later renamed Port Sydney was owned by the Commonwealth and Dominion Line Limited and was leased by the Commonwealth until 22 September 1917. Between the two wars this vessel carried cargo from United Kingdom to Australasian ports, including a good deal of material for the Sydney Harbour Bridge (The Age, October 20, 1948).SignificanceTroopships have always had a significant role in transporting Australian troops to war but they are often the forgotten ships of service. This photograph and signatures are from early in World War I and reflect the excitement and pride of the troops as they leave Australia for the Great War, seen by many as a great adventure, the first part of which was going to sea.