For'ard gun turret from HMAS Swan unveiled in Albany

15/11/97

The for'ard gun turret from HMAS Swan was at the heart of the action at Princess Royal Fortress in Albany today. But it was not the heat of battle which made the twin 4.5-inch gun the centre of attraction.

It was the fact that the gun turret now is the latest tourist attraction in Albany.

Tourism Minister Norman Moore, who played a critical role in getting the gun, was in Albany to officiate at the unveiling ceremony.

Mr Moore said these turrets were the first in the Royal Australian Navy to be computer-controlled and radar-guided.

They primarily were for surface and air defence and were capable of hurling shells over 6km with deadly accuracy.

"The gun turret will stay in Albany as a cultural attraction for visitors," the Minister said.

"It is hard to imagine a more spectacular place for this piece of Australian history than the fortress on Mt Adelaide.

"The turret will stand testament to the distinguished service of HMAS Swan before she was decommissioned."

Mr Moore praised the co-operation of the public and private sectors in first of all getting approval for the gun turret to go to Albany and then physically getting it there and in place.

The HMAS Anzac also was in Albany where its crew exercised their right to Freedom of Entry on their first visit to the town.

Footnote: HMAS Swan will be sunk in Geographe Bay, off Dunsborough, on December 14, as a central feature in a dive wreck tourist attraction.

Media contact: Hartley Joynt, Minister's office (08) 9 321 1444