Letters

Researching family war story about an unknown ship being sunk off Cape Borda Kangaroo Island S.A. during WWII

Wartime 1939-1945 shipping sunk off Adelaide - Kangaroo Island

Dear sir, I am curious about a family war story about an unknown ship being sunk off Cape Borda Kangaroo Island S.A. during WWII. The sinking was observed by the the post-master of Parndana post office and indeed filmed as he was keen cinematographer. His report to allied war officials resulted in a special plane flight to debrief him and claim the film with reminders of the official secrets act. I believe he was very generously paid for the film some time later . I presume it was an allied ship sunk by mines and was kept a secret to keep up moral.

Can you supply any information?

Regards
Neil Copping


Neil,
 
I am not aware of any ship being sunk off Kangaroo Island in WW2. Here is a list of ships sunk in that area over many years,
 
as you can see when you scan it only a Cray boat in 1942 is listed for the war years of 1939-1945.
 
See:
SHIPWRECKS OFF KANGAROO ISLAND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Perhaps Neil you should follow up the work of Ron Parsons, and Gifford Chapman, a KI resident and diver, they may just have the details you seek.
 
Sorry I am of little assistance to you in your quest.
 
Best regards,
 
Mackenzie Gregory
.


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