HMAS Diamantina
HMAS Diamantina was an exceptional ship built in a Queensland country town for front line action during World War II and later for peaceful duties.
HMAS Diamantina is the largest surviving vessel which served in the Royal Australian Navy during World War II. Built by Walkers Ltd in Maryborough Queensland for the front line action in World War II, she held the honour of hosting three surrender ceremonies at the end of the Pacific War.
The Diamantina was the second of three River Class Frigates built by Walkers. The ship was launched on 6th April 1944 and commissioned on 27th April, 1945. Following the war Diamantina was decommissioned in August 1946.
In 1959 she began a new life of scientific research of the ocean depth along with more varied naval tasks. Diamantina finally retired, the last of her illustrious class, after 35 years, when in August, 1980 it was gifted to the Queensland Maritime Museum.
Engineering Heritage Recognition Program
| Marker Type | Engineering Heritage National Marker (EHNM) |
| Award Date | 25 October 2020 |
| Heritage Significance | HMAS Diamantina is well maintained by the voluntary staff of the Queensland Maritime
Museum. It is permanently open for public inspection. As one of the World’s last River Class Frigates and Australia’s largest World War II Navy veteran, she will continue to educate and inspire her visitors to honour and admire the skill of her builders and crew. |
| Nomination Document | Available here. |
| Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report |
Available here. |
| Plaque/Interpretation Panel Image | Available here. |
References:
Nunan, Peter, HMAS Diamantina : Australia's Last River Class Frigate, 1945-1980, McCrae, [Victoria] : Slouch Hat Publications, 2005.
