Respect for HMAS Tobruk would live on as dive wreck: Slipper

04 August 2009 Respect for HMAS Tobruk would live on as dive wreck: Slipper

Member for Fisher Peter Slipper has assured historians, veterans and defence personnel that he has only the best intentions at heart for a decommissioned HMAS Tobruk, if it is secured for the Sunshine Coast as a dive wreck.

"I have great respect for the Tobruk, as well as the men and women of our defence forces who have served and are still serving on this iconic navy vessel," Mr Slipper said.

Mr Slipper was responding to concerns from sectors of the public who fear sinking the HMAS Tobruk, once it is decommissioned, would diminish its legacy as a war ship.

"There are those who understandably feel that sinking the ship as a dive and environmental wreck when it is decommissioned would be disrespectful, and that it should instead be preserved and maintained as a floating memorial or as a museum," Mr Slipper said.

"The advice I received during the decommissioning and sinking of the HMAS Brisbane is that utilising decommissioned vessels as dive and environmental wrecks is the preferred option of Government, and is probably the best way to ensure that the memory of the ship lives on in a dignified manner."

"This has been my experience with the HMAS Brisbane, which also has its history and its present location recorded on a very visible memorial on Alexandra Headland, which overlooks its current resting place."

"The ongoing expense of keeping and preserving such a vessel as a museum is considerable and includes the risk that it will become a financial burden, poorly maintained and, therefore, its memory dishonoured."

"Use as a wreck ensures that it continues to serve the community in a practical way for hundreds of years, that there is ongoing interest in the vessel and an ongoing need to keep it protected within its new environment."

Permanent Link: Respect for HMAS Tobruk would live on as dive wreck: Slipper
Publish Date: 04 Aug 09