HMAS Australia (II), a County-class heavy cruiser, was a key component of the Allied Task Force 44 during the Battle of the Coral Sea (4–8 May 1942). Under Rear Admiral John Crace, she helped repel the Japanese invasion force targeting Port Moresby, preventing a critical threat to the Australian mainland. This battle was the first in history fought solely by aircraft. HMAS Australia in the Battle of the Coral Sea (May 1942): Role: Part of Task Force 44 (later 17) providing surface protection for

⚓ 66 Years of HMAS Vampire 🛳️ To mark the 66th anniversary of HMAS Vampire’s commissioning, Shipkeeper Ryan is taking us on a special behind-the-scenes tour of his 6 favourite parts of this Cold War-era destroyer. From the honours board to the captain’s chair, discover what makes Australia’s largest museum vessel so legendary—and why Ryan still finds something new to love every day. 🎥 Watch the full reel and come aboard IRL to step into history. https://www.sea.museum/en/whats-on/our-fleet/hma