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Image Not Available for It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done
It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done
Image Not Available for It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done

It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done

Datebefore 1964
Object numberANMS0147[005]
NameLeaflet
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsBooklet closed: 203 x 128 mm
Booklet open: 203 x 254 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Louis D'Alpuget
DescriptionAn appeal fund leaflet for KRAIT titled 'It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done". The leaflet details a brief history of the KRAIT, its significance and a donation slip for the KRAIT APPEAL FUND . The leaflet has four pages; - It Couldnt Be Done - But It Was Done - The Historic Voyage of KRAIT - Why KRAIT Should Be Bought Back - Support Of Community LeadersHistoryAfter identifying the KRAIT in BORNEO a determined effort was begun to bring the vessel home. To generate the funds, the KRAIT Appeal Fund was created to make the public aware of the significance of the vessel and its future role in Australia. Part of these efforts were promotions in newspapers, particularly The Sun, and distribution of literature such as this booklet. Here the history of the KRAIT was explained and why it needed to preserved; "The objectives, in bringing KRAIT back to Australia are significant and far reaching. KRAIT is more than a gallant little ship, and more than a monument to brave men. She will be a working monument. She will be used actively for training young Australians in navigation and seamanship, at the same time helping to inculcate pride in Australian military and naval achievements. She will be a working vessel, helping to perform the tasks of the Volunteer Coastal Patrol in rescue work and other sea-going operations. She will be open to public inspection, a symbol of courage and service, an example and an inspiration to future generations of Australians. For too many monuments to Australian heroism have been lost, or remembered too late. This must not be allowed to happen to KRAIT. Help bring her back she is part of our heritage."SignificanceThe KRAIT has a long history of service in Australia and was very successful in WWII in evacuation and attack situations in Singapore. Despite its small size and age, it sporadically suffered engine trouble for the duration of the voyage, the KRAIT's role in Operation Jaywick was significant in both getting the crew to Singapore under disguise and getting them back to Australia again.