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Chief Minister Paul Henderson announced the Territory Government has acquired a significant piece of World War II history.

An important document regarding the Japanese invasion of Darwin was acquired during an auction in Melbourne yesterday. 

Mr Henderson said the Government was committed to protecting our World War II history. 

“The historical significance of Darwin’s bombing during World War II is of immense importance to Territorians,” he said.

 

“The document, dated 27 March 1942, contains a set of military orders sent to D Company, 43 Battalion to defend Darwin from imminent attack.  

“The orders stated the enemy was planning to land in the Darwin area and that ‘THE AREA WILL BE HELD TO THE VERY END’.

“They also include a breakdown of specific duties and details of the proposed recipients of the orders.

“This appears to be the only known copy of this historical document, and is the first time a copy has come up for auction.

 “I congratulate the Museums and Art Galleries of the Northern Territory which lodged the successful bid with auction house Bonhams and Goodman in Melbourne. 

“The material will be transferred from Melbourne to Darwin in the coming weeks and will be kept in the MAGNT permanent collection.” 

Mr Henderson said the view is to display the historically important papers at the proposed Defence of Darwin Museum at East Point.

 

“The Defence of Darwin Museum is the cornerstone of the Henderson Government’s five-year $11.5 million initiative to ensure our wartime history is preserved for all to appreciate and understand,” he said.

 

“Darwin’s role in World War II has shaped our identity, and I want to ensure that heritage is properly preserved for locals and visitors.”

 

Framed black and white photographs showing damaged buildings in Darwin after Japanese air raids in February 1942 were also acquired as part of the purchase.

 

Media contact: Geoff Fraser 0407 360256

Related files:
Henderson 280909 WWII papers.pdf ( 308.92 kb )