Description
Description: RAN Tally Band – HMAS Kimbla – circa 1970s
Maker’s Name: N/A
Condition: Very Good
Comments: Royal Australian Navy – Tally Band – HMAS Kimbla – circa 1970s.
HMAS Kimbla was laid down in 1953 and was launched by Mrs. J.W.N. Bull, wife of Captain John Bull who, at the time, was General Overseer Eastern Area. Kimbla’s launch was delayed due to the 1955 flooding of the Mary River, she was launched at 1102 on the 23rd March 1955. Kimbla had the distinction of being the first Naval Vessel built at Walkers Ltd. Maryborough since the Second World war, she was also the last of her line being a virtual copy of the KOALA Class of Boom Defence Ships.
During her long career she steamed 363,000 miles at an average speed of 7 knots. Kimbla’s career came to an end when she was decommissioned on the 15th February 1985. When she entered harbour for the last time on 20th December, 1984, she flew a 208 foot paying off pennant representing the length of the ship and one foot for each year of service, which was 29 years.
Kimbla was employed on salvage duties, an often unpleasant but vital role, and two major Civil airline disasters were completed by the ship.
HMAS Kimbla on completion was 940 tons, 179 feet long with a beam of 30 feet and was armed with a 40 mm Bofors gun.
