The Western Australian Maritime Museum today opened its doors to a compelling exhibition on the Battle of the Cocos, Australia’s successful first naval engagement in World War One which took place 100 years ago this weekend, on 9 November, 1914.

To commemorate the Battle’s 100th anniversary, the WA Museum has curated and produced The Last Gentleman of War, an exhibition that explores the extraordinary events surrounding the battle fought between the first HMAS Sydney and the German cruiser SMS Emden, while Sydney was on escort duties for the Anzac convoys that had only just left Albany.

WA Museum CEO Alec Coles said while this story is relatively unknown, it is one which has brought great national pride to both countries.

“This exhibition recreates the events surrounding the Battle of Cocos and tells a story of decency, honour and even humour – a stark contrast to the bloody, protracted acts of war that would quickly follow,” Mr Coles said.

“The Emden had been cruising the Indian Ocean virtually unchallenged for 12 weeks, capturing an incredible 30 merchant ships during that time in a deliberate move to disrupt trade.

“Only one civilian life was lost during the Emden’s 12-week rampage, with the crews of the captured ships arriving safely in various Eastern ports telling of the courteous treatment of their captors.” 

Sydney’s victory created an upsurge of national pride for the newly created Royal Australian Navy.  And, despite being driven onto rocks by Sydney and sunk, Emden’s crew was idolized in Germany for their gallantry and bravery. 

Visitors to the exhibition will discover the wider story from both the Australian and German perspectives, with a unique gathering of iconic objects and images from both Sydney and Emden on display.

Last Gentlemen of War is a free exhibition and will be on display at the WA Maritime Museum until 26 April, 2015. For commemorative events taking place on the Cocos Islands visit www.newsboost.com/newsroom/sydney-emden-100th-anniversary has background information.

Media contact: Flora Perrella, WA Museum Media and Communications Coordinator
6552 7804, 0424 027 646 flora.perrella@museum.wa.gov.au