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HMAS Sub-Base Platypus Revitalised

Published on: September 2023

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-135403

HMAS Sub-Base Platypus Revitalised

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore)

—The historic HMAS Sub-Base Platypus has been revamped and revitalised for the local North Shore community. The old torpedo factory overlooking Neutral Bay now has a new lease on life thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust who have spent many months carefully preserving the historical aspects of the area, while creating increased open space for the community to enjoy. It was incredibly special to hear from special guest Commander Sandy Coulson (Retd) Royal Australian Navy, who was the first and only female executive officer to serve at HMAS Platypus who shared some remarkable stories of her time there. Between 1988 and 1990 Commander Coulson was effectively in charge of HMAS Platypus under her Commanding Officer and alongside a senior Submarine Commander. The posting was so rare at the time that it was announced in the Federal Parliament by the serving Defense Minister at the time. The site contains an incredible wall filled with the history of the site, detailing the torpedo manufacturing that was used by the Allies in World War II, and in the coming months a new park area will be opened overlooking Neutral Bay.