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[Page 135]

W112/4/75

H.M.A. Troopship "Kanowna".

Secretary.

Report herewith. -
The S.S. "Kanowna" was hired by the Commonwealth Government on the 5th August to transport troops from Townsville via Cairns to Thursday Island and afterwards to convey five hundred of  these troops to Port Moresby for duty with the Naval and Military Expedition.

2.   On 7th September a W/T was received from H.M.A.S. "Sydney", -
"Firemen "Kanowna" mutinied have ordered ship to proceed direct to Townsville and await orders".
and on 8th September, W/T was received from the R.A.C., -
"Sydney" reports that firemen of "Kanowna" have mutinied troops are immature equipment unfit for shipping and crew unfavourably disposed and he has sent 'Kanowna'   to Townsville to await further orders.   Brigadier recommends disbandment of  'Kanowna'.   I consider troops in 'Berrima' are sufficient for work being carried out."

The Naval Board on receipt of the foregoing suggested that the Military Authorities should arrange for "Kanowna" to be boarded on her arrival at Townsville before she comes alongside, observing that there is no Naval Officer at Townsville to assist in this matter, and for full enquiry to be held and all other necessary action taken.

3.   On the 9th September the following wire was sent to the Commandant, 1st Military District:-
"Navy reports firemen 'Kanowna' mutinied crew ill-disposed and ship sent to Townsville for orders message sent 7th September stop   make arrangements for three reliable officers to be at Townsville before arrival to go aboard at once and allow no communication with shore stop   reply  by wire main facts in order that inquiry may be ordered if necessary stop   wire names of officers stop   military not to hold official inquiry as regards crew".

  

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