The Bathurst class minesweeper, (corvette), HMAS DUBBO, was commissioned. DUBBO was laid down in Mort’s Dock, Sydney, on 13 October 1941, and launched on 7 March 1942.
ADML V.C. Crutchley assumed command of Southern Force, which included HMA Ships AUSTRALIA and CANBERRA, (cruisers), and US Ships CHICAGO, PATTERSON, and BAGLEY, for Operation Watchtower.
HMA Ships CHINAMPA, (ketch), and SOUTHERN CROSS, (examination vessel), engaged Japanese shore positions at Saumlaki, Tinobar Islands, while attempting to land reinforcements. The Skipper of CHINAMPA, CWO F.J. Henderson, RANR, was killed.