By Roxanne Millar
WILLIAMSTOWN will navigate its way onto the history charts this month when it finally claims ownership as the birthplace of Australia’s first colonial navy.
As part of the Williamstown Maritime Association’s annual boat show, ALP stalwart Barry Jones will unveil a plaque that will finally counter Sydney’s claims to having started the water-based defence force.
Williamstown Maritime Precinct director Geoffrey Dougall said the Royal Australian Navy got its start after Victoria became the first British colony to buy its own defence ship and start a colonial navy.
“The British fleet were all up in Sydney and Victoria realised if it needed help it wouldn’t have got a pommie boat in time,” Mr Dougall said.
“The boat arrived in 1856 and eventually it had six boats before the Australian Navy formed in 1911.
“We were the leaders before anyone else but Victoria never got off its backside to promote that — Sydney always made a song and dance about it.”
To celebrate the milestone, this year’s boat show will have a decidedly historic and naval feel to it.
Old Victorian Colonial Navy boats and relics will be on display in the precinct, along with historic ships, uniforms and photos of Williamstown’s early maritime days.
Mr Dougall said a highlight would be relics from HMVS Nelson, which already has its anchor on show in Commonwealth Reserve, including a cannon found in Ballarat and the ship’s wheel.
Nelson was the largest wooden warship in its day and given to Victoria by Britain in 1868.
In 1871 the powerful turret ship Cerberus joined the Nelson, and a torpedo boat followed in 1884.
“The naval relics are something we haven’t done before but we will also have maritime art and vessels on display,” Mr Dougall said.
Boat fans will also be able to enjoy boat rides, live music and plenty of tasty treats.
The colonial navy boat show will be held from 10am to 6pm on 24 and 25 March at the Williamstown Maritime Precinct. Tickets are $5 for adults and free for under 15s.
Thirsty sailors and land lubbers can rehydrate and catch a sneak peek of the commemorative navy plaque at a cocktail party on 23 March from 7pm. Tickets are $40 from Mr Dougall on 0416 235 366.
