The Rescue – HMAS Adelaide (II)
This painting illustrates the rescue of an English yachtsman, Tony Bullimore who was plucked from the icy vastness of the Southern Ocean by the warship HMAS Adelaide on January 9, 1997, after spending four days in his capsized yacht, the Exide Challenger.
Courtesy of the Navy Heritage Centre and Navy Heritage Repository
- About Richard Bass Middleton
The only information known about Richard Bass Middleton is that he was born in Brisbane, Queensland on 25 October 1932 and died at Cains, Queensland on 11 April 2019 aged 86.
He joined the Royal Australian Navy on 25 October 1950 and served as an Able Seaman for six years until discharged on 24 October 1956. During this period, he served in HMAS Australia (II) and HMAS Sydney (II).
If you can assist with further information about him, please contact the Naval Historical Society.
- About HMAS Adelaide (ll)
HMAS Adelaide(II) (FFG-01) was a long-range escort frigate with roles including area air defence, anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance, and interdiction. The ship could simultaneously counter threats from the air, surface and sub-surface. Adelaide was built in the United States. She was the first of six Adelaide Class guided missile frigates to be delivered to the RAN.
Adelaide is best remembered for her involvement in the rescue of yachtsman Tony Bullimore.
More reading
- Additional resources for HMAS Adelaide (ll)
