Permanent heritage listing for Flying Boat Wreckage, Roebuck Bay Broome

02/05/03
The Flying Boat Wreckage site in Roebuck Bay Broome has been permanently listed in the State Government's Register of Heritage Places.
Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards said the heritage listing recognised the unique historical qualities associated with the site.
"The Flying Boat Wreckage is an exceptionally rare site of national significance, which provides insight to Western Australia's history," Dr Edwards said.
"The site is the only remaining evidence of any wartime attack on the Australian mainland and contains valuable artefacts and archaeological material associated with the attack and evacuation of Java.
"It is important to the community, service and ex-service groups for its cultural and historical associations as a memorial to those who died in the 1942 Japanese aerial attack on the 15 moored flying boats.
"The site also represents the heroism in the face of danger displayed by individuals in the Broome community who tried to save the refugees trapped in the sinking flying boats.
Over a two-week period leading up to the attack, some 8,000 refugees were evacuated from Java to Perth.
Of the 15 planes, nine sank in deep water, but six are still visible at low tide.
"The site adds to the rich cultural and natural heritage at Roebuck Bay which has become an important part of Broome's tourism industry," Dr Edwards said.
The site was interim listed in the State Government's Register of Heritage Places by the Minister in December last year.
A conservation order was also placed on the site to provide protection of the site from pilfering and vandalism.
Dr Edwards said the conservation order would permanently remain on the site to provide a mechanism for prosecuting those who remove material from the area.
Minister's office: 9220 5050