HMAS Sydney (III) in Korean waters 1951-52
The HMAS Sydney in Korean waters launching Hawker Sea Fury fighters. The HMAS Sydney is flanked on either side by her destroyer escorts. A rescue helicopter is hovering above the Sydney. HMAS Sydney joined United Nations forces in Korean waters in October 1951. The Sydney’s role consisted predominantly of direct attacks on ground targets and assistance to ground operations. Sydney can be seen here launching Hawker Sea Fury fighters from the Nos. 805 and 808 Squadrons with Fairey Firefly on deck.
- About Ramon (Ray) Francis Honisett
Ray was born in Perth, Australia and travelled to England to study art in London. He supported himself by working as a freelance illustrator. On his return to Australia, he settled in Melbourne and worked as a stamp designer and a marine and military aviation artist.
Fellow of the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). RMIT is ranked number 1 in Australia and 15 in the world for Art and Design placing the School of Art in the top echelon of the world’s art and photographic educational institutions.
Ray was the first professional artist to paint in the Australian Antarctic Territory. He has achieved acclaim and prominence as a maritime and aviation artist. His paintings are held by the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Australian War Memorial.
He died in October 2019.
- About HMAS Sydney (lll)
Sydney was a Majestic Class, Aircraft Carrier/Fast Troop Transport. She was to be the first 'flat top' aircraft carrier operated by the RAN. Sydney sailed from Garden Island on 25 July to begin several months of exercising in the Tasman Sea. Her crew had to master conducting flying operations. Daylight operations, nighttime operations as well as launching and recovering aircraft in varying sea states and weather conditions were a necessary part of ensuring that the RAN's new carrier was prepared future operations. This pattern of exercises continued throughout the remainder of 1949 and into 1950.
More reading
- Additional resources for Ramon (Ray) Francis Honisett
- Additional resources for HMAS Sydney (lll)
