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Fifty years on, survivors commemorate Voyager disaster

The 50th anniversary of Australia’s worst maritime disaster was commemorated today in New South Wales.

voyager2_140210_AAP.jpg
The HMAS Melbourne at sea, probably following a collision with the destroyer HMAS Voyager in February, 1964

On February 10, 1964, the HMAS Voyager collided with aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne during a training exercise killing 82 men.

The tragedy deeply affected the over 200 survivors – many suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

voyager_140210_AAP.jpg
HMAS Melbourne at sea, probably following a collision with the destroyer HMAS Voyager in 1964 (AAP).

Survivors and families of the victims today participated in commemorations taking place at Jervis Bay on the NSW Southern coast.

Memorials included a service at the wreck site and a sunset ceremony with an 82-bell toll honouring the lives lost.

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Source: SBS


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