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Hmas Castlemaine and its collection

Hmas Castlemaine
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Launched in 1941 and commissioned in 1942, the HMAS Castlemaine served in the waters of Australia, New Guinea, and Timor during World War II. It remained in service until 1945, when it was decommissioned and converted into a static training ship. This historical vessel provides a unique insight into the naval operations of the time.

HMAS Castlemaine as a Museum Ship

In 1973, the HMAS Castlemaine was presented to the Maritime Trust of Australia and converted into a museum ship. It is currently moored at Gem Pier in Williamstown, next to the historic customs house. While the ship is no longer capable of sailing, the main mess deck houses a museum. The engines have been converted to run on compressed air, allowing visitors to observe their mechanical operation.

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DEHMAS Castlemaine (J244)
FRHMAS Castlemaine

Science & Technology Science & Technology History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Maritime War Industrial heritage

#8 History & Anthropology in Melbourne #4 Science & Technology in Melbourne #3 Industrial & heritage museums in Melbourne #13 History & Anthropology in Victoria #5 Science & Technology in Victoria #5 Industrial & heritage museums in Victoria #2 War museums in Victoria #54 History & Anthropology in Australia #32 Science & Technology in Australia #14 Industrial & heritage museums in Australia #7 Maritime museums in Australia #8 War museums in Australia

#8 History & Anthropology in Melbourne #4 Science & Technology in Melbourne #3 Industrial & heritage museums in Melbourne #13 History & Anthropology in Victoria #5 Science & Technology in Victoria #5 Industrial & heritage museums in Victoria #2 War museums in Victoria #54 History & Anthropology in Australia #32 Science & Technology in Australia #14 Industrial & heritage museums in Australia #7 Maritime museums in Australia #8 War museums in Australia

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Hmas Castlemaine
Gem Pier, Syme St
VIC 3016 Melbourne

Images of Hmas Castlemaine

Visitor information Hmas Castlemaine

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday
11:00 – 16:00
Sunday
11:00 – 16:00

Open on weekends and public holidays

Admission

0 – 4Free
5 – 15A$5.00
AdultsA$10.00
Families (two adults & two children)A$25.00

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Hmas Castlemaine.

Location & Map

Gem Pier, Syme St, Melbourne

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Hmas Castlemaine have been found.

Hmas Castlemaine Reviews

Hmas Castlemaine has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The HMAS Castlemaine, docked at Gem Pier in Williamstown, Melbourne, offers visitors a chance to explore a preserved World War II corvette. This floating museum provides an authentic look into naval history, with many original features intact. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see the ship's quarters, engine room, and various displays detailing its wartime service. The volunteer staff, often including veterans, are known for their knowledge and enthusiasm, adding depth to the experience. However, some find the narrow passageways and steep ladders challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues. The museum's relatively small size means it can be thoroughly explored in about an hour, which some visitors find limiting. While the exhibits are informative, a few reviewers mention that some areas could benefit from updated presentations or interactive elements to engage younger visitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the HMAS Castlemaine is generally regarded as a worthwhile visit for those interested in maritime or military history, offering a tangible connection to Australia's naval past.

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