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Well done Australia. HMAS SYDNEY which ended the career of the elusive and notorious German cruiser EMDEN, November 1914
Well done Australia. HMAS SYDNEY which ended the career of the elusive and notorious German cruiser EMDEN, November 1914

Well done Australia. HMAS SYDNEY which ended the career of the elusive and notorious German cruiser EMDEN, November 1914

Maker
Date1914-1918
Object number00017342
NamePostcard
MediumBlack and white photographic print on paper.
DimensionsOverall: 89 x 140 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Kim Andrews
DescriptionThis black and white photographic postcard shows HMAS SYDNEY with members of the ship's company on deck. Text beneath the image celebrates the role that HMAS SYDNEY played in stopping the German cruiser SMS EMDEN in November 1914. The handwritten message on the back of the postcard reads "not much of a photo, but just thought it for a skylark".HistoryOn 9 November 1914, while escorting a convoy near the Cocos Islands, the light cruiser HMAS SYDNEY was detached to investigate the sighting of a strange warship. This ship turned out to be the German light cruiser SMS EMDEN. In the ensuing battle, SYDNEY destroyed the EMDEN, subsequently gaining fame for being the first Royal Australian Navy vessel to win a battle. The defeat of the EMDEN had a postive impact on the national psyche during World War I and many Australians celebrated the victory. The defeat of the EMDEN provided some welcome good news for the community and boosted the war effort. SignificanceThis postcard is an example of a commemorative item produced to honour and celebrate the victory of HMAS SYDNEY against the German cruiser SMS EMDEN. The battle marked the coming of age of the Royal Australian Navy as a capable naval force.