HMAS SYDNEY (I)

Date1915 - 1918

Object number00028886

NamePostcard

MediumSilver gelatin print on paper

DimensionsOverall: 87 x 133 mm

ClassificationsPosters and postcards

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis black and white photographic postcard depicts HMAS SYDNEY with the ship's company on deck. The caption printed beneath the image reads 'HMAS SYDNEY, which has a Nicholson combination piano on board'. The reverse of the postcard reveals it is an advertisement for a piano company. The card reads 'John Brinsmead's pianos are like England's soldiers - unequalled'.HistoryHMAS SYDNEY I was a light cruiser of the Royal Australian Navy, commissioned in June 1913. During World War I it was initially engaged in operations in the Pacific and in November 1914 escorted the first troop convoy to the Middle East. On 9 November HMAS SYDNEY engaged with and defeated the German cruiser SMS EMDEN off the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. It was a great event celebrated across Australia. Throughout the rest of the war SYDNEY served in the Caribbean and also with the Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet in the North Sea. After the war the cruiser returned to Australian waters and undertook routine duties until paid off in 1928 and broken up in 1929.SignificanceThis postcard is an excellent example of the early use of postcards for advertising. The comparison made between England’s soldiers and Brinsmead's pianos appeals to war time patriotism and loyalty.