𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗮

Although largely insulated from conflict on the home front for the early years of WW2, air strikes in the north of Australia and submarine raids in Sydney in 1942, would change the wartime narrative within our nation. But as the AHS Centaur sailed along the east coast of Queensland towards Port Moresby on May 14, 1943, those on board had every reason to feel safe. As a hospital ship, its secure passage was protected under the principles of the Hague Convention, because the Centaur was on a mission of mercy, not war.

Yet, all that would count for little in the early hours of that fateful morning, as an enemy submarine torpedoed the AHS Centaur with 268 brave souls condemned to a watery grave. It remains a sombre chapter in Australia’s maritime history, and one of its most abhorrent wartime atrocities.

The Centaur was more than a mere vessel – it represented hope and healing amidst the pain and horrors of a world at war – and its sinking serves as a solemn reminder of the tragedies of war, and the heroic sacrifices of our brave servicemen and women.

This morning we gathered, as so many have done since that tragic day, to remember and honour the ultimate sacrifice and courage of those who perished, and to acknowledge the immense impact on loved ones and communities.

Paul Clegg (grandson), his wife Christine, and Keith Clegg (son) laid a wreath to commemorate Pte Percy Clegg (2/12th FA), a much-loved father who would never watch his son grow up, nor meet his grandchildren. As we reflect on the Centaur’s legacy – reminded, as we are, of the strength and resilience of the human spirit – may we seek to ensure that the memory of those who never made it home, endures not only as a tribute to their courage, but also as a call to strive for peace and compassion in our world.

Lest we forget.

Submitted by Christine Clegg & Keith Clegg (2/3 AHS Centaur Association Member)

𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗮 – 𝟭𝟰 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Although largely insulated from conflict on the home front for the early years of WW2, air strikes in the north of Australia and submarine raids in Sydney in 1942, would change the wartime narrative within our nation. But as the AHS Centaur sailed along the east coast of Queensland towards Port Moresby on May 14, 1943, those on board had every reason to feel safe. As a hospital ship, its secure passage was protected under the principles of the Hague Convention, because the Centaur was on a mission of mercy, not war.

Yet, all that would count for little in the early hours of that fateful morning, as an enemy submarine torpedoed the AHS Centaur with 268 brave souls condemned to a watery grave. It remains a sombre chapter in Australia’s maritime history, and one of its most abhorrent wartime atrocities.

The Centaur was more than a mere vessel – it represented hope and healing amidst the pain and horrors of a world at war – and its sinking serves as a solemn reminder of the tragedies of war, and the heroic sacrifices of our brave servicemen and women.

This morning we gathered, as so many have done since that tragic day, to remember and honour the ultimate sacrifice and courage of those who perished, and to acknowledge the immense impact on loved ones and communities.

Paul Clegg (grandson), his wife Christine, and Keith Clegg (son) laid a wreath to commemorate Pte Percy Clegg (2/12th FA), a much-loved father who would never watch his son grow up, nor meet his grandchildren. As we reflect on the Centaur’s legacy – reminded, as we are, of the strength and resilience of the human spirit – may we seek to ensure that the memory of those who never made it home, endures not only as a tribute to their courage, but also as a call to strive for peace and compassion in our world.

Lest we forget.

Submitted by Christine Clegg & Keith Clegg (2/3 AHS Centaur Association Member)