The search for the unknown sailor: A forensic journey

Public Lecture | Updated 1 decade ago

Image copyright of WA Museum
Grave of the Unknown Serviceman, Commonwealth War Cemetery, Geraldton
Photo by James Thompson

CMDR Matthew Blenkin, RAN

On 19 November 1941 the Australian Leander Class Cruiser HMAS Sydney (II) was sunk by the German raider HSK Kormoran and lost with all hands off the coast of Western Australia. Curiously, one of the Sydney’s life rafts floated into Flying Fish Cove some 3 months later. Within the raft lay the remains of an unknown sailor. He was buried in a cemetery on Christmas Island, with the location of that grave forgotten over time.

Join Commander Matthew Blenkin as he unveils the story of the search for this unknown sailor’s location, and the forensic investigation that has attempted to reveal his identity.

GERALDTON:
7.00pm, Thursday 18th November and 10.00am, Friday 19th November - Museum Theatre
Entry by gold coin donation,
Bookings essential on 9921 5080

MARITIME:
6.00pm, Friday 12 November 2010 – NWS Shipping Theatre
Batavia Lecture Series - Entry is $12 per person includes refreshments after the lecture – please pay at the door
Bookings essential on 9431 8455 (RSVP by 5.00pm, Wednesday 10 November)