THE BATTLESHIP AUSTRALIA.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16543, 17 November 1915, Page 5

THE BATTLESHIP AUSTRALIA.

RECORD OF SEAWORTHINESS. GERMAN SUPPLY SHBP SUNK. LONDON, November 15. (Received Nov. 16, at. 6.25 p.m.) In order that Australians might know something about the battleship Australia the Admiralty arranged for a special visit. Those who paid it found the Australia stripped ready for action, and moored between the Lion and the Tiser. After an inspec* tion of the ship had been made, an officer told the story of the cruise. After her experiences at New Guinea the Australia proceeded to New Caledonia, where she was joined by other Australian ships and two transports which were proceeding to Samoa. The Psyche preceded the others, and reported that the harbnnr was empty. The transports then entered and occnpied the island. The v Australia then cruised the Pacific. On attempting the passage of. x the Panama Canal she was blocked by the Culebra landslide, and went round Cape Horn. After leaving the Falkland* Islands she met and sank the German supply ship Eleonore Woermann. She steamed 40,000 miles without a serious over* haul; it was a- strenuous time for everyone. On arriving in England Admiral Patey was appointed to the Leviathan, and Rear-admiral Pakcnham was given the Australia, which made her the flagship of the second battle-cruiser squadron. Admiral Pakenham is eulo* gistic about the Australians' conduct, their efficiency and common expectancy. There is the strongest tie between the officers and men, all saying that they would not miss what is coming on any account. All are happy, fit, efficient, and ready for anything.