Snapshot in Time: HMAS Sydney and Kormoran, a tale of two different ships that ended in mutual destruction

On November 19, it will be 84 years since HMAS Sydney II, a light cruiser of the Royal Australian Navy, was engaged in a mutually devastating battle with the German raider Kormoran. The 1941 battle ended with the Sydney II destroyed and the Kormoran scuttled by its captain. Many of the Kormoran’s crew survived and were made prisoners of war, while the Sydney lost all 645 crew, the most grievous loss of life suffered by the RAN. The two ships could not have been more different: the HMAS Sydney II was a graceful ship with a celebrated and accomplished record. The Kormoran was converted from a freighter and armed with guns, torpedoes and mines in such a way that only close inspection would reveal that she was not a merchant ship. Her role was to sink unescorted shipping, not to engage warships. With her disguise, the Kormoran was able to lure the Sydney close enough to launch a surprise attack with gunfire and torpedoes. Although crippled, the Sydney was able to fight back and ensure the destruction of the Kormoran. Each year on November 19, a commemorative sunset service is held at Geraldton’s HMAS Sydney II Memorial to remember the 645 souls lost at sea. Snapshots is an initiative of the Geraldton Regional Library. For more information, or to donate a historical photo or slide contact 9956 6659 or library@cgg.wa.gov.au