HMAS ADELAIDE, (cruiser), arrived at Vila to install De Gaullist M. Sautot as French Commissioner of the New Hebrides. Vila was in the hands of Vichy sympathisers, and ADELAIDE stood off the port until 16 September, before sailing for Noumea. On her arrival at the latter port the French sloop DUMONT D’URVILLE was observed at the wharf. A signal from a shore station warned ADELAIDE:- ‘You must not enter harbour’. Conflict was avoided when De Gaullist supporters seized control. DUMONT D’URVILLE sailed for Saigon on 25 September, and M Sautot was installed as Commissioner.
Australian Naval History on 7 September 1940
Help us improve our website
We're a volunteer run organisation and we'd love your help. If you spot a typo, an incorrect image or a correction for this article? Let us know below.