It was the worst military disaster, for Australia, in peacetime. The Voyager collided with the aircraft carrier Melbourne.
from Wikipedia
"Melbourne and Voyager had been steaming together at 22 knots when Melbourne signalled Voyager to take station in routine preparation for night flying. Voyager, at that time ahead and to one side of Melbourne, swung away from Melbourne's track then unexpectedly turned back across her bows, leading to the collision. Both ships took last minute avoiding action but with little effect. The forward part of Voyager capsized, sinking minutes later, causing many casualties. All Voyager bridge officers perished, including her captain. In accordance with maritime 'rules of the road' with Melbourne at flying stations and showing the appropriate signal, it was Voyager's obligation to keep clear."
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The ALP delayed any compensation until the very end of their tenure in office, in '95. Cases were being heard by tribunal, under Mr Howard. 50 cases were cleared in 2007.
Now Rudd has announced a stunt. He will appoint some people to look at clearing cases. 44 years after the event. The appointments will be made soon. But probably not soon enough. Great headline by fawning press.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
ALP Stunt Over Voyager Disaster
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Voyager compo confirmed on anniversary
from news.com.au
The Rudd Government has confirmed its pre-election pledge to try to resolve outstanding compensation claims arising from the HMAS Voyager disaster.
Today is the 44th anniversary of the nation's worst peacetime military tragedy in which 82 people lost their lives.
One civilian, 14 officers and 67 sailors died when the ship collided with HMAS Melbourne during a training exercise off the southeast coast of NSW in 1964.
Survivors have been battling authorities for damages for years.
There are currently 34 damages claims by HMAS Melbourne crew before the courts, as well as seven outstanding appeals. Another two claims by descendants of Voyager crew who died remain unresolved.
Defence Science and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon said Labor was committed to seeing justice done, and had established a 1995 compensation scheme to compensate all Voyager survivors.
"Now I am determined to advance the remaining claims from the tragedy," he said in a statement.
The Government made a pre-election commitment to appoint a legal expert to advise the Defence Department on how to best progress remaining cases.
"We are in the process of drafting terms of reference and hope to soon appoint a retired judge or senior silk to the task," Mr Snowdon said.
The minister is encouraged by the use of mediation and negotiation to resolve 50 cases last year.
"Together with the review, I am hopeful that we can clear the way to ending years of frustration," Mr Snowdon said.
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