HONG HAI
Model Maker
Frank Allen
Date1991
Object number00015495
NameModel
MediumMetal, brass, paint, lime wood
DimensionsOverall: 400 x 805 mm, 0.75 kg
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineANMM Collection
Collections
DescriptionThis ship model of HONG HAI was created in Sydney in 1991. HONG HAI was a Vietnamese fishing vessel which carried 38 refugees from Vietnam to Australia in 1978.HistoryThe Vietnam War ended on 30 April 1975 with the fall of Saigon to Communist forces and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. In the late 1970s thousands of Vietnamese fled the new Communist regime, escaping the country in small boats to places such as the USA, Canada and Australia.
The first Vietnamese 'boat people' arrived in Darwin in 1976. By the end of 1979, 2,011 people had undertaken the perilous sea voyage from Vietnam to Australia. Many more died trying.
The first wave of boat people arrived at a time of dramatic social upheaval in Australia, with spirited debate about our involvement in the Vietnam War, the new concept of multiculturalism, the breaking of many of Australia's traditional ties to Britain and the forging of new links with Asia. Despite some opposition from the wider community, the relaxation of immigration restrictions meant that most were allowed to stay.
HONG HAI was a Vietnamese fishing vessel that carried 38 refugees from Vietnam to Australia in 1978. It departed Kien Giang, Vietnam, on 24 September 1978, and stopped at 12 points, including Malaysia and Indonesia, during its 51 day voyage. HONG HAI was escorted into Darwin, Northern Territory, by a Royal Australian Navy patrol boat on 13 November 1978.SignificanceThis ship model represents the Vietnamese-built fishing vessel HONG HAI, one of 54 boats that carried refugees to Australia after the Vietnam War.
