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108th Anniversary of HMAS Sydney I – Sms Emden

Published on: November 2022

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-129142

108th Anniversary of HMAS Sydney I – Sms Emden

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore)

—Speaker, On the 9th of November 1914, the German cruiser SMS Emden was in the process of attacking the British cable and wireless station on Direction Island when HMAS Sydney I, under the command of John Glossop, attacked the Emden. After a fierce battle lasting nearly two hours, the Emden was ordered to run aground after one hundred and thirty-four men were killed. HMAS Sydney's defeat of the Emden in the Battle of the Cocos was the young Royal Australian Navy's first victory and the end to Emden's dominance in the region. I recently joined with HMAS Sydney I Association members for their 108th anniversary commemorative memorial service at Bradleys Head, where the HMAS Sydney I Memorial Mast stands looking over Sydney Harbour. I acknowledge members of the association, Brian Yeo and Barry Brooks, for organising this service. I also recognise the members of the Royal Australian Navy, Commodore Bradley Smith CSC, Commodore Paul Kable AM retd., and Chaplain Jon-Paul Barry. A special thanks to the family members of HMAS Sydney I and our current serving men and women. Lest we forget.