Naval Defence

See how naval warfare evolved in the 20th century at the WA Maritime Museum’s Naval Defence gallery, where tales of courage, resilience, and sacrifice unfold above and below the waves. 

Discover artefacts that bear witness to Australia’s engagement in naval combat – from First World War Tenix naval weaponry and the replica AE2 Submarine Conning Tower, to the innovative Sleeping Beauty Motorised Submersible Canoe, deployed during the Second World War for covert operations.

Learn about pivotal moments in Australia’s naval history, including the tragic loss of HMAS Sydney (II) in 1941 and the daring exploits of Max Shean, a Western Australian commander of the midget submarine XE4, which played a crucial role in cutting underwater telegraph cables during the Second World War.

Take in stories of people’s diverse wartime work, from Navy clearance divers to the Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service. Discover the strategic significance of Fremantle as a marine base and learn about the shipyards that constructed combat vessels crucial to defending Australia’s interests.

DON’T MISS: The Carley float – this type of lifeboat was commonly used by navies, and famously, one washed up on Christmas Island in 1942 carrying the remains of Able Seaman Thomas Clark who had served on HMAS Sydney II when it was lost off Geraldton after a battle with HSK Kormoran.