ONSLOW Finds New Home
May 3, 1999
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HMAS ONSLOW joins HMAS VAMPIRE
as star attractions at the Australian National Maritime Museum,
Sydney.
Picture: ABPH Damian Pawlenko. |
ONSLOW was escorted by two tugs to her new resting place at the Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour in Sydney.
One of six Oberon class submarines, ONSLOW was the last to depart HMAS PLATYPUS at Neutral Bay following the re-location of the RAN's submarine base to HMAS STIRLING.
Travelling under tow, and in the command of LCDR Sean O'Dwyer with a complement of twenty on her casing, she made a splendid sight gliding through Sydney's harbour to her berth alongside HMAS VAMPIRE at the museum.
ONSLOW has travelled 358,068 nautical miles in her time - the equivalent to sixteen and a half times around the world.
However, the old work horse has gained a six week reprieve from duty before her rebirthing which will be marked by a special ceremony, complete with Navy brass band on June1 at the museum.
Her reincarnation includes special audio tours (using a personal CD player), featuring stories of real people and the boats fascinating history, authentic background sounds from an active submarine and, appropriately enough, submarine slang.
ONSLOW's new role in life will allow the visiting public to experience the hidden world of underwater warfare…the stealth, silence and secrecy of SUB culture.
By Annie Casey