KRAIT appeal fund papers
Date1964 - 1972
Object numberANMS0147[007]
NamePapers
MediumInk on paper
Dimensions260 x 206 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Louis D'Alpuget
DescriptionKRAIT appeal fund papers.HistoryAfter 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."SignificanceOf all the work done by the Z Special forces during the war, Operation Jaywick is the most successful, well-known and well-documented operation of this unit. Accordingly KRAIT has become the unit’s most enduring and recognisable symbol. In 1964 the vessel became a dedicated memorial to the members of Z Special and continues to fulfill this role as an integral and active part of remembrance activities at the National Maritime Museum. Here at the museum KRAIT is at the heart of Z Special commemorative events as well as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies.
