Statement of recommendation from the Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to the Heritage Council of Victoria
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Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Name: HMAS Castlemaine
Address: Gem Pier, Williamstown
Provisional VHR No. PROV VHR H2407
HMAS Castlemaine, July 2020
Executive Director recommendation
Under Part 3, Division 3 of the Heritage Act 2017 I recommend to the Heritage Council of Victoria that HMAS
Castlemaine, currently located at Gem Pier, Williamstown, should be included in the Victorian Heritage Register
(VHR) in the category of registered object.
STEVEN AVERY
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria
DATE OF RECOMMENDATION: Monday 14 September 2020
This report may contain images and/or names of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are now
deceased.
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Heritage Council determination
The Executive Director, Heritage Victoria recommends that the Heritage Council include HMAS Castlemaine,
currently located at Gem Pier, Williamstown, in the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) in accordance with section 49
of the Heritage Act 2017 by determining:
That this object is of State-level cultural heritage significance and should be included in the VHR in the
category of object in accordance with section 49(1)(a) of the Act.
That the proposed categories of works or activities which may be carried out in relation to the object for
which a permit under the Act is not required will not harm the cultural heritage significance of the object
under section 49(3) of the Act.
HMAS Castlemaine 2
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
The process from here
1. The Heritage Council publishes the Executive Director’s recommendation (section 41)
The Heritage Council of Victoria will publish the Executive Director’s recommendation on its website for a period of
60 days. Submissions must be received by Heritage Council on or before Monday 16 November 2020.
2. Making a submission to the Heritage Council (sections 44 and 45)
Within the 60-day publication period, any person or body can make a submission to the Heritage Council. This
submission can support the recommendation, or object to the recommendation and a hearing can be requested in
relation to the submission. Information about making a submission and submission forms are available on the
Heritage Council of Victoria’s website:
https://heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/registrations-reviews/executive-director-recommendations/
3. Heritage Council determination (sections 46 and 49)
The Heritage Council of Victoria is an independent statutory body. It is responsible for making the final
determination to include or not include the place or object in the VHR, or amend a place or object already in the
VHR.
If no submissions are received the Heritage Council must make a determination within 40 days of the publication
closing date.
If submissions are received, the Heritage Council may decide to hold a hearing in relation to the submission. If a
hearing does take place, the Heritage Council must make a determination within 90 days after the completion of
the hearing.
4. Obligations of owners of places and objects (sections 42 and 43)
The owner of a place or object which is the subject of a recommendation to the Heritage Council has certain
obligations under the Heritage Act 2017. These relate to advising the Executive Director, Heritage Victoria in writing
of any works or activities that are being carried out, proposed or planned for the place or object.
The owner also has an obligation to provide a copy of this statement of recommendation to any potential
purchasers of the place or object before entering into a contract.
5. Further information
The relevant sections of the Act are provided at Appendix 1.
HMAS Castlemaine 3
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Description
The following is a description of HMAS Castlemaine at the time of the site inspection by Heritage Victoria in July
2020.
HMAS Castlemaine is an Australian Bathurst-class Minesweeper constructed in Williamstown for the Australian
Navy in 1941 and commissioned in 1942. It is constructed predominantly from welded steel and measures 56.73
metres (186 feet) long with a beam (maximum width) of 9.4555 (31 feet) The ‘draft’ (the drop from the waterline to
the bottom of the hull) is 2.55 metres (8 feet).
c.2020, HMAS Castlemaine. Source: Maritime Trust of Australia
Exterior and Bridge
Forecastle Deck and Boat Deck
The Forecastle Deck (to the front of the ship) is dominated by the Bridge, a raised and largely enclosed structure
which contains the ship’s helm and compass and from which it is piloted. Forward of the Bridge is the ship’s main
armament, a QF 4-inch gun. Forward of the 4-inch gun is a cable windlass, used for lowering/ hoisting the ship’s
anchor. To the rear of the Bridge is the Boat Deck which accommodates two lifeboats, a storage compartment for
fruit and vegetables, water pumping equipment (for use on board), and a series of hatches providing light/ air to the
engine room below. A 40mm anti-aircraft gun is also located to the rear, together with two mounted machine guns.
The Bridge
The Bridge is mostly enclosed. Within the enclosed portion (the wheelhouse), the main feature is the restored helm
– a spoked ‘steering wheel’ which sets the ship’s direction. The wheelhouse also contains the ship’s compass and
a series of voice pipes’ connecting the bridge to various parts of the ship. The floor of the wheelhouse is made of
brass to avoid magnetic interference with the navigational equipment (compass). To the rear of the wheelhouse,
and exposed to the elements, is the signal bridge, which contains two sets of pigeon-holes for storing flags and
pennants not being displayed.
HMAS Castlemaine 4
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Quarterdeck
At the very rear of the boat, is the Quarterdeck, which houses the ship’s mine sweeping equipment, consisting of a
winch with two floats. A sea mine is positioned near the winch on the port side of the boat.
Interior
The Upper Deck contains the galley, the seaman’s messdeck (living deck) and the radio room. The Lower Deck
houses the steering gear room, minesweeping store, officer’s cabins, wardroom and wardroom store, as well as the
officer’s bathroom and pantry and the petty officer’s mess. It also contains a portion of the engine room and the
boiler room which also extend down into the hold. The boiler room, located at the front of the engine room, contains
two Yarrow Admiralty pattern 3-drum boilers each fired by four sprayers. The boilers provide steam to the engine
room (to the aft of the boiler room) where it powers two triple expansion steam reciprocating engines. The hold
contains the engine room and the boiler room both of which run from the lower deck. Other elements in the hold
include oil fuel tanks and water tanks.
2020, The bridge showing the helm 2020, Winch for hauling mine sweeping equipment
2020, First Lieutenant’s cabin 2020, Lifeboat
HMAS Castlemaine 5
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
History
The history has been drawn from information provided by the Maritime Trust of Australia and available from the
Royal Australian Navy and the Australian War Memorial. It has been supplemented by additional research where
necessary.
Development of the Bathurst Class of Minesweepers
In February 1938, the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board (ACNB) identified the need for a class of general
purpose 'local defence vessels’ that were easy to construct and operate and capable of undertaking both anti-
submarine and minesweeping duties. In July 1938, the RAN Director of Engineering, Rear Admiral P.E. McNeil,
was instructed to develop plans for a local defence vessel, with a displacement of approximately 500 tons, a speed
of at least 10 knots (19 km/h), and a range of 2,000 nautical miles (3,700 km). McNeil completed his design in
February 1939 and while it was never produced, it attracted interest in Australian naval circles, as it offered
advantages over existing minesweeping and anti-submarine vessels and could largely be built in Australia’s
typically smaller shipyards and using local resources.
In September 1939, following the outbreak of World War II, a procurement process for the construction of seven
ships, broadly based on McNeil's concept, was commenced. Additional orders were soon placed by the ACNB and
the British Admiralty and between 1940-44, 60 ships were built. The 60 new vessels were classified as ‘Corvettes’
– a word for small warship derived from the French. Fifty six of the 60 vessels were retained by the Royal
Australian Navy and, in accordance with Navy tradition, they were named after Australian towns – for example:
HMAS Castlemaine, HMAS Colac, HMAS Whyalla, HMAS Cowra and so on. It appears as though each town took
an interest and assisted in fundraising efforts for their namesake vessel. The lead ship of the new class of
Corvettes was named HMAS Bathurst and so the class became known as ‘Bathurst’-class Australian
Minesweepers.
Construction of HMAS Castlemaine
HMAS Castlemaine was laid down (construction commenced) on 17 February 1941 at the HMA Naval Dockyard in
Williamstown as one of eight Bathurst-class vessels to be constructed there. As McNeil had originally intended, the
parts were largely sourced locally with the engines being constructed by Thompsons of Castlemaine (VHR H1732)
and the boilers being built at Cockatoo Island in Sydney. Following its completion, HMAS Castlemaine was
launched by Mrs R.G Menzies, the wife of Prime Minister Robert Menzies, on 7 August 1941. Sea trials followed
and it was commissioned (entered active service) on 17 June 1942.
Active Service 1942-45
Between June 1942 and 1945 HMAS Castlemaine undertook a wide range of military duties, including: escorting
vessels, minesweeping, transporting supplies and survey duties – predominantly in Northern Australia, Timor, Hong
Kong and Papua New Guinea. A detailed list of her war service is at Appendix B.
Post War
After the end of World War II, HMAS Castlemaine became part of the Reserve Fleet (mothball fleet) kept at
Geelong. It was regularly towed to Williamstown Dockyard for dry-docking and maintenance, and returned to
Geelong. In 1955 HMAS Castlemaine was allocated to Flinders Naval Depot (HMAS Cerberus) for use as a
stationary training ship for engine-room artificers and shipwrights. This role required her to undergo a complete
engine overhaul, which was undertaken at Williamstown dockyard.
HMAS Castlemaine 6
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
The overhaul also involved the removal of all non-essential equipment, such as guns, radar, radio, boats,
minesweeping gear and deck fittings. The ship was then transported to HMAS Cerberus where the boilers were
flushed, the ship's decks were stripped bare and most of the rigging removed. The former messdeck was turned
into a workshop and the former minesweeping store into a classroom. The small arms magazine was turned into a
damage control compartment, which was regularly flooded for training purposes with parties being required to enter
the compartment and plug the holes.
Until the mid-1960s the HMAS Castlemaine continued to be used for training purposes. However, with the building
of a new engineering school at HMAS Cerberus, her role as a training ship was reduced, especially as new training
methods and technology was introduced to the syllabus. Parts of the engines and boilers were removed to the
classrooms as models and in 1969, HMAS Castlemaine was declared available for disposal.
The Maritime Trust of Australia and Restoration
The Cerberus Trust was established in 1970 by dedicated volunteers for the express purpose of preserving HMVS
Cerberus, a pre-federation ship of the Victorian navy (VHR H0186). The group was also interested in acquiring and
preserving a Bathurst-class Minesweeper and lobbied to prevent the scrapping of HMAS Castlemaine. In October
1973 the Commonwealth Government gifted the Trust the HMAS Castlemaine with the proviso that it be “restored
to her World War II configuration”. The year following their acquisition of HMAS Castlemaine, the Cerberus Trust
changed its name to the ‘Maritime Trust of Australia’. While the HMAS Castlemaine had been saved, it was in very
poor condition, being described by the Trust as “little more than “a rusty and gutted hulk, [on the exterior] stripped
of all her deck fittings, winches and armaments. Inside was not much better; there were neither light fittings nor
bridge equipment. Below decks, the engines and boilers were in pieces”.
Since 1974, volunteers from the Maritime Trust of Australia have returned much of HMAS Castlemaine to her 1945
configuration. Externally, the Bridge has been restored and the decks have been re-fitted with armaments,
minesweeping gear, rigging. Internally, the boilers, engines, officer’s quarters, radio room and the chart room have
all been restored to their original state and the ship is now in operable condition. The two larger spaces have not
been restored, with the former messdeck being used as a museum/collection space and the former minesweeping
store being used as a meeting room. HMAS Castlemaine was relocated from her original berth at South Wharf to
Gem Pier in Williamstown in September 1976 and has largely remained there since. It continues to operate as a
Museum Ship today.
Selected bibliography
Frank B. Walker, 1992, HMAS Armidale: The Ship that had to die, Budgewoi, NSW, Kingfisher Press.
Able Seaman Libby Pearce, 2019, The ABC of Royal Australian Navy Corvettes, Canberra, Department of
Defence.
Royal Australian Navy, 'HMAS Castlemaine Ship History', https://www.navy.gov.au/hmas-castlemaine [Accessed
August 2020].
Peter Parer, 'HMAS Castlemaine' film, 1942, Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C189150
[Accessed August 2020].
Maritime Trust of Australia, Images and Chronology Provided.
HMAS Castlemaine 7
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Further information
Relevant Planning Scheme Port of Melbourne Planning Scheme
Heritage Overlay There is no Heritage Overlay for this object
Other Overlays There are no other overlays for this object
Other Listings There are no other listings for this object.
Other Names There are no other names for this object
Traditional Owner Information
HMAS Castlemaine is located on the traditional land of the Kulin Nation. A Registered Aboriginal Party under the
Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 has not been appointed.
Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register
HMAS Castlemaine is not included in the Aboriginal Heritage Register. Gem Pier, the current location of HMAS
Castlemaine, is within an area of Aboriginal cultural heritage sensitivity.
Integrity
The integrity of HMAS Castlemaine is very good. The cultural heritage values of the object can be easily read in the
extant fabric. (July 2020).
Intactness
The intactness of HMAS Castlemaine is good and the ship’s superstructure and internal configuration has
remained intact. Like other vessels in the VHR, HMAS Castlemaine has, undergone extensive renovation since the
Maritime Trust came into possession in 1973 involving the refit of most of the ship’s interior, including the Bridge,
officer’s quarters, radio room, chart room, boilers and engines, as well as the reinstatement of much of the ship’s
exterior equipment – including the minesweeping gear and weaponry. Parts have largely been sourced from other
Bathurst-class Minesweepers or, where not available, re-made to the original specifications. (July 2020).
Condition
The condition of HMAS Castlemaine is excellent. The ship is carefully maintained and used as an exhibit/museum
space (July 2020).
HMAS Castlemaine 8
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Statutory requirements under section 40.
Terms of the recommendation (section 40 (3)(a))
The Executive Director, Heritage Victoria recommends that HMAS Castlemaine is included in the VHR in the
category of an object.
Information to identify the place or object (section 40(3)(b))
Name: HMAS Castlemaine
Address: Gem Pier, Williamstown
The Executive Director recommends that the extent of registration for HMAS Castlemaine be gazetted as:
All of the Australian Minesweeper, Bathurst Class ship known as HMAS Castlemaine.
No extent diagram is required for the registration of an object.
Rationale for the extent of registration
The recommended extent of registration is all of the Bathurst Class Minesweeper known as HMAS Castlemaine.
The recommended extent varies from the nominated extent of registration. The original nomination was for ‘the
whole ship and its contents’. The current recommended extent excludes the ship’s contents. There is no complete
inventory or provenance information of the ship’s contents. Some relate directly to the ship and some do not, only
being of general nautical interest. As a result, it is not currently possible to determine which/ if any objects are of
sufficient significance to be included in the registration with the ship. It is recommended that a comprehensive
assessment of the contents be undertaken in the future.
It should be noted that all parts of the HMAS Castlemaine, including interior and exterior fixtures, are proposed for
inclusion in the VHR. A permit or permit exemption from Heritage Victoria is required for works affecting any part of
the proposed extent of registration, apart from those identified in the categories of exempt works or activities in this
recommendation.
HMAS Castlemaine 9
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261
Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Reasons for the recommendation, including an
assessment of the State-level cultural heritage
significance of place/object (section 40(3)(c))
Following is the Executive Director's assessment of the place/object against the tests set out in The Victorian
Heritage Register Criteria and Thresholds Guidelines. A place or object must be found by the Heritage Council to
meet Step 2 of at least one criterion to meet the State level threshold for inclusion in the VHR.
CRITERION A: Importance to the course, or pattern, of Victoria’s cultural history.
Step 1: Test for satisfying Criterion A
The place/object has a CLEAR ASSOCIATION with an event, phase, period, process, function, movement, custom or way of life
in Victoria’s cultural history.
plus
The association of the place/object to the event, phase, etc IS EVIDENT in the physical fabric of the place/object and/or in
documentary resources or oral history.
plus
The EVENT, PHASE, etc is of HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE, having made a strong or influential contribution to Victoria.
Executive Director’s Response
The HMAS Castlemaine has a clear association with the naval defence of Victoria during World War II and the
Victorian ship building industry. The association of HMAS Castlemaine with World War II naval defence and the
Victorian ship building industry is evident in the physical fabric of the ship and is also evident from a variety of
documentary sources. World War II naval defence and the Victorian ship building industry are both of historical
importance, having had a profound effect on the state’s development.
Bathurst-class Minesweepers were regarded as the workhorses of the Australian naval fleet during World War II.
The 60 ships that were produced (56 used by the Australian navy) played a critical role in transporting and
providing support to troops operating in the waters north of Australia and into Asia. Over 10,000 servicemen served
on Bathurst-class Minesweepers, drawn from all over Australia. HMAS Castlemaine has a clear association with
the conflict in the Pacific (the Pacific War) and with the service of those Victorians who fought on her.
HMAS Castlemaine was one of eight Bathurst-class Minesweepers built in Victoria (all at HMA Naval Dockyard in
Williamstown) between 1940 and 1943. Fifty-two were built at other naval dockyards around Australia (bringing the
total to sixty). It has a clear association with the development and operation of the Victorian ship building industry
during World War II and demonstrates the contribution that Victorian shipbuilders made toward the Australian war
effort.
Step 1 of Criterion A is likely to be satisfied.
Step 2: Test for satisfying Criterion A at the State Level
The place/object allows the clear association with the event, phase etc. of historical importance to be UNDERSTOOD BETTER
THAN MOST OTHER PLACES OR OBJECTS IN VICTORIA WITH SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME ASSOCIATION.
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine is the only known intact World War II naval ship in Victoria. The HMAS Castlemaine allows the
clear association with the naval defence of Victoria during World War II and the Victorian ship building industry to
HMAS Castlemaine 10
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
be understood better than most other places or objects in the state with substantially the same association. While it
has undergone significant restoration, both internally and externally, the ship’s superstructure and internal
configuration remain largely original and replacement parts used in her restoration have typically come from other
Bathurst-class Minesweepers or, where this has not been possible, have been built to the original specifications.
Criterion A is likely to be satisfied at the State level.
CRITERION B: Possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Victoria’s cultural
history.
Step 1: Test for Satisfying Criterion B
The place/object has a clear ASSOCIATION with an event, phase, period, process, function, movement, custom or way of life
of importance in Victoria’s cultural history.
plus
The association of the place/object to the event, phase, etc IS EVIDENT in the physical fabric of the place/object and/or in
documentary resources or oral history.
plus
The place/object is RARE OR UNCOMMON, being one of a small number of places/objects remaining that demonstrates the
important event, phase etc.
or
The place/object is RARE OR UNCOMMON, containing unusual features of note that were not widely replicated
or
The existence of the class of place/object that demonstrates the important event, phase etc is ENDANGERED to the point of
rarity due to threats and pressures on such places/objects.
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine has a clear association with the development and operation of the Victorian ship building
industry during World War II. It also has a clear association with the contribution that Victoria and Victorian
servicemen made in naval defence during World War II. The association of HMAS Castlemaine with both the
Victorian ship building industry and the contribution of Victoria and Victorian servicemen to naval defence is evident
in the physical fabric of the ship and in a variety of documentary sources.
In its class, 60 Bathurst-class Minesweepers were constructed between 1940 and 1944, including eight in Victoria.
Of the 60 only two remain today: HMAS Castlemaine and HMAS Whyalla (located on land in South Australia).
Step 1 of Criterion B is likely to be satisfied.
Step 2: State Level Significance Test for Criterion B
The place/object is RARE, UNCOMMON OR ENDANGERED within Victoria.
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine is the only known intact World War II naval ship in Victoria and one of only a handful of World
War II warships remaining in Australia. It is the only remaining Bathurst class vessel in Victoria and the only
Bathurst class vessel in the world remaining in a nautical setting. The HMAS Castlemaine has much in common
with the restoration of the Polly Woodside. Both are rare ships in their class which have been restored by
volunteers and now play an important educational role in relation to Victoria’s maritime history.
Criterion B is likely to be satisfied at the State level.
HMAS Castlemaine 11
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
CRITERION C: Potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Victoria’s
cultural history.
Step 1: Test for Satisfying Criterion C
The:
visible physical fabric; &/or
documentary evidence; &/or
oral history,
relating to the place/object indicates a likelihood that the place/object contains PHYSICAL EVIDENCE of historical interest that
is NOT CURRENTLY VISIBLE OR UNDERSTOOD.
plus
From what we know of the place/object, the physical evidence is likely to be of an INTEGRITY and/or CONDITION that it
COULD YIELD INFORMATION through detailed investigation.
Executive Director’s Response
There is no basis on which to suggest that HMAS Castlemaine has the potential to yield information that is
currently not visible and will contribute to an understanding of Victoria.
Criterion C is not likely to be satisfied.
CRITERION D: Importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a class of cultural
places and objects.
Step 1: Test for Satisfying Criterion D
The place/object is one of a CLASS of places/objects that has a clear ASSOCIATION with an event, phase, period, process,
function, movement, important person(s), custom or way of life in Victoria’s history.
plus
The EVENT, PHASE, etc is of HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE, having made a strong or influential contribution to Victoria.
plus
The principal characteristics of the class are EVIDENT in the physical fabric of the place/object.
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine is one of the class ‘World War II naval ship’. It is associated with the naval defence of Victoria
and Australia during World War II. It also has a clear association with the development and operation of the
Victorian ship building industry between 1940-43. The naval defence of Victoria and Victoria’s ship building industry
are of historical importance and had a profound effect on Victoria. The principal characteristics of a World War II
naval ship, being those of a Bathurst-class Minesweeper, are clearly evident in the physical fabric of HMAS
Castlemaine.
Step 1 of Criterion D is likely to be satisfied.
HMAS Castlemaine 12
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Step 2: State Level Significance Test Criterion D
The place/object is a NOTABLE EXAMPLE of the class in Victoria (refer to Reference Tool D).
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine can be considered as a notable example of World War II naval ship, being a Bathurst-class
Minesweeper. It is a fine example of a Bathurst-class Minesweeper because:
• It displays a large range of characteristics typical of the class of Bathurst-class Minesweepers; and
• It displays the principal characteristics of the class in a way that allows the class to be easily understood and
appreciated.
Criterion D is likely to be satisfied at the State level.
CRITERION E: Importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics.
Step 1: Test for Satisfying Criterion E
The PHYSICAL FABRIC of the place/object clearly exhibits particular aesthetic characteristics.
Executive Director’s Response
The HMAS Castlemaine has importance in that it exhibits particular aesthetic characteristics as a warship. It is an
impressive vessel and has become a visually striking part of the Williamstown foreshore area.
Criterion E is likely to be satisfied.
Step 2: State Level Significance Test for Criterion E
The aesthetic characteristics are APPRECIATED OR VALUED by the wider community or an appropriately-related discipline as
evidenced, for example, by:
critical recognition of the aesthetic characteristics of the place/object within a relevant art, design, architectural or
related discipline as an outstanding example within Victoria; or
wide public acknowledgement of exceptional merit in Victoria in medium such as songs, poetry, literature, painting,
sculpture, publications, print media etc.
Executive Director’s Response
The aesthetic characteristics of the HMAS Castlemaine have not received critical recognition in an appropriate
discipline or wide public acknowledgement of exceptional merit.
Criterion E is not likely to be satisfied at the State level.
HMAS Castlemaine 13
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
CRITERION F: Importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at
a particular period.
Step 1: A Test for Satisfying Criterion F
The place/object contains PHYSICAL EVIDENCE that clearly demonstrates creative or technical ACHIEVEMENT for the time in
which it was created.
plus
The physical evidence demonstrates a HIGH DEGREE OF INTEGRITY.
Executive Director’s Response
There is no basis on which to suggest that HMAS Castlemaine has importance in demonstrating a high degree of
technical achievement at a particular period.
Criterion F is not likely to be satisfied.
CRITERION G: Strong or special association with a particular present-day community or cultural
group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.
Step 1: Test For Satisfying Criterion G
Evidence exists of a community or cultural group.
(A community or cultural group is a group of people who share a common interest, including an experience,
purpose, belief system, culture, ethnicity or values.)
plus
Evidence exists of a strong attachment between the COMMUNITY OR CULTURAL GROUP and the place/object in
the present-day context.
plus
Evidence exists of a time depth to that attachment.
Executive Director’s Response
HMAS Castlemaine is associated with the servicemen who fought on it and other Bathurst-class Minesweepers
during World War II and the servicemen and women who trained on it in the years it was stationed at HMAS
Cerberus.
Between 1940 and 1945 some 10,000 Allied servicemen served on Bathurst class Minesweepers, including many
Victorians. The experience of those who served on HMAS Castlemaine was relatively short, but extremely intense.
There are many reports of former servicemen from HMAS Castlemaine and other Bathurst-class Minesweepers
retaining a strong sense of identity and becoming emotional when returning to visit HMAS Castlemaine at
Williamstown in subsequent years. There is clear evidence of both a strong attachment and a time-depth to the
attachment.
The experience of those who trained on HMAS Castlemaine while it was stationed at HMAS Cerberus has not
been well documented. HMAS Castlemaine was one of a number of training vessels used at HMAS Cerberus and
unlike those who fought on it during World War II, trainees were not required to live or spend significant amounts of
time on the ship. There is no evidence of a strong attachment or a time-depth to the attachment of this community
of people.
Step 1 of Criterion G is likely to be satisfied.
HMAS Castlemaine 14
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Step 2: State Level Significance Test for Criterion G
Evidence exists that the social value resonates at a State Level,
that is across the ‘broader Victorian community’.
(‘Resonance’ means the extent to which the social value of a place/object
can be demonstrated to exert an influence. The social value must resonate beyond a particular local, social or cultural community into the
‘broader Victorian community’).
Plus
Evidence exists that the social value is part of an event or story that contributes to Victoria’s identity.
Executive Director’s Response
The connection between HMAS Castlemaine and those who served on her and other Bathurst-class Minesweepers
has resonance at a State level. As the only remaining intact World War II naval ship in Victoria its resonance exerts
an influence into broader Victorian community. The HMAS Castlemaine is one of the few places Victorians (including
veterans) can go to gain a first-hand understanding of World War II naval experiences. The ship is an important part
of Victoria’s war history, contributes to Victoria’s identity and the education of future generations.
Criterion G is likely to be satisfied at the State level.
CRITERION H: Special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of
importance in Victoria’s history.
Step 1: Test For Satisfying Criterion H
The place/object has a DIRECT ASSOCIATION with a person or group of persons who have made a strong or influential
CONTRIBUTION to the course of Victoria’s history.
plus
The ASSOCIATION of the place/object to the person(s) IS EVIDENT in the physical fabric of the place/object and/or in
documentary resources and/or oral history.
plus
The ASSOCIATION:
directly relates to ACHIEVEMENTS of the person(s) at, or relating to, the place/object; or
relates to an enduring and/or close INTERACTION between the person(s) and the place/object.
Executive Director’s Response
There is no basis on which to suggest that HMAS Castlemaine has a special association with the life or works of a
person, or group of persons, of importance in Victoria’s history.
Criterion H is not likely to be satisfied.
HMAS Castlemaine 15
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Comparisons
These places and objects were selected as comparators to HMAS Castlemaine because they are either military vessels
included in the VHR or ships included in the VHR.
HMAS Castlemaine 16
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Military Seagoing Vessels in the VHR
Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum,
Swan Hill (VHR H2208)
The Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum
is of historical and social significance
to the State of Victoria. It features an
original communications bunker,
slipways, a Catalina flying boat of the
type which was serviced and
repaired there during the War, and a
collection of related artefacts. Flying
boats were an important component
of the RAAF war effort. The Catalina
aircraft, which was first produced in
the US in 1939, quickly became the
backbone of the RAAF flying boat
fleet. Although it had a low top speed
for a fighting aircraft, it also had
outstanding load carrying capacity
and endurance and was extremely
robust. It was deployed extensively in c. 2020 Catalina Flying Boat PBY5. Source: Flying Boat Museum
the western Pacific for bombing,
reconnaissance, supply drops and
rescue missions.
HMVS Cerberus, Half Moon Bay,
Black Rock (VHR H0186)
The HMVS Cerberus is of historical
and scientific (technological)
significance to the State of Victoria.
The Cerberus was ordered in 1866
and designed by the eminent naval
architect E. J. Reed and constructed
in the UK. It was the first armoured
fighting ship built for service in the
Australian colonies and the first to
operate without sails. Cerberus
operated entirely within Port Phillip
Bay, before ultimately being sold for
scrap in 1924, when most valuable
parts were removed. It was ultimately
scuttled in Half Moon Bay and has
served as a breakwater for the best
2020. HMVS Cerberus. Source: Andrew Snape
part of 100 years. The Navy Base at
Flinders, HMAS Cerberus, is named
after her.
HMAS Castlemaine 17
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Places related to the Victorian ship building industry included in the VHR
Alfred Graving Dock, Williamstown Dockyard
(VHR H0697)
The Alfred Graving Dock (a dry dock for ship
building and maintenance) is historically significant
as one of the greatest public works constructed in
Australia in the nineteenth century. It is
architecturally significant as the work of the
distinguished architect William Wilkinson Wardell.
After the outbreak of World War II, the Melbourne
Harbor Trust used the dockyards for the conversion
of merchant vessels and trawlers for war purposes
and the construction of naval vessels. The Royal
Australian Navy requisitioned the dockyard in 1942.
This dock was vital to the defence of Victoria and its
ship building industry during World War II. 2008 Alfred Graving Dock. Source Reddit
This photograph shows the HMAS Castlemaine undergoing works.
HMAS Castlemaine 18
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Other ships Included in the VHR
Polly Woodside, South Wharf, Melbourne (VHR
H2116)
The Polly Woodside is of historical, scientific and
social significance to Victoria. It was built in Belfast
in 1885 and operated as a cargo vessel. In 1904 the
ship was sold to a New Zealand company and until
1921 sailed mainly between various ports in
Australia and New Zealand. In 1923 it was
dismantled to become a coal hulk and towed to
Melbourne. The ship was temporarily requisitioned
by the Royal Australian Navy during the Second
World War and used in New Guinea as a refuelling
barge for navy ships, then returned as a coal hulk.
In 1968 the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
purchased the ship for one cent. It underwent
extensive restoration, and in 1978 was opened to
the public. The Polly Woodside is a rare surviving
example, and one of the best in the world, of a
nineteenth-century barque rigged, iron-hulled,
ocean-going trading ship and of historical
significance for being representative of the type of
ship that that serviced Victoria through the
intercolonial and international trade in the late
nineteenth and early twentieth century; for its long
association with the Port of Melbourne and of social
significance for its links to Victoria’s maritime history C 2007, Polly Woodside. Source VHD
and for the public support it received for its
preservation and conservation.
HMAS Castlemaine 19
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Summary of Comparisons
HMAS Castlemaine is the only known intact World War II naval ship in Victoria. Moreover, it is one of only a handful
of World War II warships remaining in Australia. The Catalina Flying boat is comparable as an intact military
air/watercraft from World War II, but is very different in form, scale and purpose and, having been constructed in
the United States, does not have a connection to Victoria’s manufacturing industry during World War II. The HMVS
Cerberus is significantly older (1867), has been stripped of its equipment and converted into a breakwater. It is
inaccessible to the general public and cannot provide the same understanding of the ship’s operation as the
restored HMAS Castlemaine. It was constructed in the United Kingdom, so like the Catalina Flying Boat is unable
to demonstrate the operation of Australia’s manufacturing industries.
The Alfred Graving Dock (VHR H0697) demonstrates the nineteenth-century Victorian ship building industry and
demonstrates its importance to the State, in both the civilian and military realms, into the twentieth century. It
enables the complex process of ship building and maintenance to be understood, whereas ships such as the
HMAS Castlemaine represent the finished product of this industry.
The Polly Woodside is an intact vessel (albeit from the 1880s) but was designed as a cargo ship rather than a
military vessel and was constructed in what is now Northern Ireland. Her character, associations and the
experience of her crew were very different to that of HMAS Castlemaine and again being constructed overseas
(Northern Ireland), it is unable to offer any insight into the development of Australian or Victorian shipbuilding.
By contrast, HMAS Castlemaine is a naval vessel designed and built in Australia for use in World War II. Despite
being stripped of much of her equipment in the 1950s/60s, a careful program of restoration (some of which was
undertaken at the Alfred Graving Dock) has seen her returned to her 1945 configuration and for the last 45 years it
has played an important role as a museum. The careful rebuilding of the HMAS Castlemaine by volunteers has
much in common with the restoration of the Polly Woodside. Both rare ships in their class, they now serve an
important and educational role in relation to Victoria’s maritime history.
HMAS Castlemaine 20
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Summary of cultural heritage significance
(section 40(4)(a))
The ED recommends that HMAS Castlemaine be included in the VHR as an object.
Statement of significance
What is significant?
The Bathurst Class Minesweeper known as HMAS Castlemaine.
How is it significant?
HMAS Castlemaine is of historical and social significance to the State of Victoria. It satisfies the following criterion
for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register:
Criterion A
Importance to the course, or pattern, of Victoria’s cultural history.
Criterion B
Possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of Victoria’s cultural history.
Criterion D
Importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a class of cultural places and objects
Criterion G
Strong or special association with a particular present-day community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual
reasons.
Why is it significant?
HMAS Castlemaine has a clear association with the naval defence of Victoria and Australia during World War II.
The ship was one of sixty Bathurst-class Minesweepers built in Australia between 1940 and 1943, of which eight
were constructed in Victoria at the HMA Naval Dockyard in Williamstown. It demonstrates the development of the
Victorian ship building industry during World War II, and the service of those Victorians who served on her in Pacific
theatres of war as part of the Royal Australian Navy. [Criterion A]
HMAS Castlemaine is the only known intact World War II naval ship in Victoria. It is only one of two extant
Bathurst-class Minesweepers in Australia, the other being displayed on land in South Australia, and the only one in
the world remaining in a nautical setting. It is one of only a handful of World War II warships which survive in
Australia. [Criterion B]
HMAS Castlemaine is a notable example of a World War II naval ship. Despite being stripped of much of her
wartime equipment, the superstructure and internal configuration of this Bathurst-class Minesweeper remains
intact. Her subsequent restoration was undertaken largely using parts from other Bathurst-class Minesweepers or
new elements constructed using original materials and specifications. As a result, the ship closely resembles her
1945 configuration, and displays the principal characteristics of a Bathurst-class Minesweeper in a way that allows
HMAS Castlemaine 21
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
the class to be easily understood and appreciated. The HMAS Castlemaine retains her nautical setting and
operational capacity. [Criterion D]
HMAS Castlemaine is socially significant for her connection to the servicemen who fought on her and other
Bathurst-class Minesweepers during World War II. Between 1940 and 1945 some 10,000 Allied servicemen served
on Bathurst class Minesweepers, including many Victorians. As the only remaining intact World War II naval ship in
the State, it is one of the few places that offers Victorians a first-hand insight into veterans’ war experiences. The
ship contributes to Victoria’s identity and plays an important role in the education of future generations. [Criterion G]
HMAS Castlemaine 22
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Categories of works or activities (permit exemptions)
recommended under section 38 (section 40(4)(b))
Introduction
The purpose of this information is to assist owners and other interested parties when considering or making
decisions regarding works to a registered place or object. It is recommended that any proposed works be
discussed with an officer of Heritage Victoria prior to making a permit application. Discussing proposed works will
assist in answering questions the owner may have and aid any decisions regarding works to the place or object.
It is acknowledged that alterations and other works may be required to keep places and objects in good repair and
adapt them for use into the future. However, under the Heritage Act 2017 For places: a person must not
knowingly, recklessly or negligently remove, relocate or demolish, damage or despoil, develop or alter or excavate
all or any part of any part of a registered place without approval. It should be noted that the definition of ‘develop’ in
the Act includes any works on, over or under the place. For objects: a person must not knowingly, recklessly or
negligently remove, relocate or demolish, damage or despoil, or alter a registered object, or disturb the position of a
fixed object without approval.
If a person wishes to undertake works or activities in relation to a registered place or registered object, they must
apply to the Executive Director, Heritage Victoria for a permit. The purpose of a permit is to enable appropriate
change to a place or object and to effectively manage adverse impacts on the cultural heritage significance of a
place or object as a consequence of change. If an owner is uncertain whether a heritage permit is required, it is
recommended that Heritage Victoria be contacted.
Permits are required for anything which alters the place or object, unless a permit exemption is granted. Permit
exemptions usually cover routine maintenance and upkeep issues faced by owners as well as minor works or
works to the elements of the place or object that are not significant. They may include appropriate works that are
specified in a conservation management plan. Permit exemptions can be granted at the time of registration (under
section 38 of the Heritage Act) or after registration (under section 92 of the Heritage Act). It should be noted that
the addition of new buildings to the registered place, as well as alterations to the interior and exterior of existing
buildings requires a permit, unless a specific permit exemption is granted.
Disrepair of a registered place or object
Under section 152 of the Act, the owner of a registered place or registered object must not allow that place or
object to fall into disrepair.
Failure to maintain registered place or registered object
Under section 153 of the Act, the owner of a registered place or registered object must not fail to maintain that
place or object to the extent that its conservation is threatened.
Conservation management plans
It is recommended that a Conservation Management Plan is developed to manage the place in a manner which
respects its cultural heritage significance.
Aboriginal cultural heritage
If works are proposed which have the potential to disturb or have an impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage it is
necessary to contact Aboriginal Victoria to ascertain any requirements under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. If
HMAS Castlemaine 23
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
any Aboriginal cultural heritage is discovered or exposed at any time it is necessary to immediately contact
Aboriginal Victoria to ascertain requirements under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
Other approvals
Please be aware that approval from other authorities (such as local government) may be required to undertake
works.
Archaeology
There is no identified archaeology of State level significance at the place.
Notes
All works should ideally be informed by a Conservation Management Plan prepared for the place. The Executive
Director is not bound by any Conservation Management Plan, and permits still must be obtained for works
suggested in any Conservation Management Plan.
Nothing in this determination prevents the Heritage Council from amending or rescinding all or any of the permit
exemptions.
Nothing in this determination exempts owners or their agents from the responsibility to seek relevant planning or
building permits where applicable.
General Conditions
All exempted alterations are to be planned and carried out in a manner which prevents damage to the fabric of
the registered object.
Should it become apparent during further inspection or the carrying out of works that original or previously hidden
or inaccessible details of the object are revealed which relate to the significance of the object, then the exemption
covering such works must cease and Heritage Victoria must be notified as soon as possible.
Specific Permit Exemptions
The following categories of works or activities (permit exemptions) do not require a permit from Heritage Victoria.
They are considered not to cause harm to the cultural heritage significance of the object and have been developed
in consultation with the owner.
General
Undertake hull and superstructure corrosion protection works on an ongoing basis.
Undertake hull external corroded steel deck area replacement and repairs within current hull lines, using like for
like materials and original ship build plans.
Continue to source and install original ship fittings and memorabilia consistent with the Trust’s mission to return
the ship to its 1945 configuration.
Minor repairs and maintenance which replaces like with like. Repairs and maintenance must maximise protection
and retention of fabric and include the conservation of existing details or elements. Any repairs and maintenance
must not exacerbate the decay of fabric due to chemical incompatibility of new materials, obscure fabric or limit
access to such fabric for future maintenance.
Maintenance, repair and replacement of existing external services such as plumbing, electrical cabling,
surveillance systems, pipes or fire services which does not involve changes in location or scale.
Maintain and operate original ship fitted machinery – including boilers and engines.
Maintain, modify and move portable museum memorabilia within the ship.
Works or activities, including emergency stabilisation, necessary to secure safety in an emergency where a
structure or part of a structure has been irreparably damaged or destabilised and poses a safety risk to its users,
HMAS Castlemaine 24
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
the public or the vessel itself. The Executive Director, Heritage Victoria, must be notified within seven days of the
commencement of these works or activities.
Works necessary to secure any armaments provided works do not alter the form or function of original fabric or
fittings of the vessel.
Painting of previously painted external and internal surfaces in the same colour, finish and product type provided
that preparation or painting does not remove all evidence of earlier paint finishes or schemes.
Cleaning including the removal of surface deposits by the use of low-pressure water (to maximum of 300 psi at
the surface being cleaned) and neutral detergents.
Interiors
Works to maintain or upgrade existing bathrooms and galley, including installing new appliances – providing no
pre-1946 fabric is removed.
Installation, removal or replacement of existing electrical wiring. If wiring is currently exposed, it should remain
exposed. If it is fully concealed it should remain fully concealed.
Removal or replacement of post 1945 light switches or power outlets.
Removal or replacement of existing hooks, brackets and the like for hanging displays.
Maintenance, repair and replacement of post 1945 light fixtures, tracks, carpets and/or flexible floor coverings,
window furnishings and the like in existing locations.
Removal or replacement of smoke and fire detectors, alarms and the like, of the same size and in existing
locations.
Repair, removal or replacement of existing ducted, hydronic or concealed radiant type heating provided that the
central plant is concealed, and that the work is done in a manner which does not alter the vessel’s fabric.
Public activities
The installation and/or erection of temporary elements associated with short term events for a maximum period
of seven days and no more than 12 times a year. This includes:
o Temporary (lightweight) structures such as shelters, marquees and tents which are weighted down
with sandbags or water or attached to the ship.
o Temporary security fencing, scaffolding, hoardings or surveillance systems to prevent unauthorised
access or to secure public safety.
o Temporary infrastructure, including wayfinding/directional signage, lighting, public address systems,
furniture and the like in support of events and performances which do not require fixing.
HMAS Castlemaine 25
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261Statement of recommendation from the
Executive Director, Heritage Victoria to
the Heritage Council of Victoria
Appendix 1
Heritage Council of Victoria determination (section 41)
The Heritage Council of Victoria is an independent statutory body that will make a determination on this
recommendation under section 49 of the Act. It will consider the recommendation after a period of 60 days from the
date the notice of recommendation is published on its website under section 41.
Making a submission to the Heritage Council (section 44)
Within the period of 60 days, any person or body with a real and substantial interest in the place or object may
make a submission to the Heritage Council regarding the recommendation and request a hearing in relation to that
submission. Information about making a submission and submission forms are available on the Heritage Council’s
website.
Consideration of submissions to the Heritage Council (section 46)
(1) The Heritage Council must consider—
(a) any written submission made to it under section 44; and
(b) any further information provided to the Heritage Council in response to a request under section 45.
(2) The Heritage Council must conduct a hearing in relation to a submission if—
(a) the submission includes a request for a hearing before the Heritage Council; and
(b) the submission is made by a person or body with a real or substantial interest in the place or object
that is the subject of the submission.
(3) Despite subsection (2), the Heritage Council may conduct a hearing in relation to a submission in any other
circumstances the Heritage Council considers appropriate.
Determinations of the Heritage Council (section 49)
(1) After considering a recommendation that a place or object should or should not be included in the Heritage
Register and any submissions in respect of the recommendation and conducting any hearing into the
submissions, the Heritage Council may—
(a) determine that the place or part of the place, or object, is of State-level cultural heritage significance
and is to be included in the Heritage Register; or
(b) determine that the place or part of the place, or object, is not of State-level cultural heritage
significance and is not to be included in the Heritage Register; or
(c) in the case of a recommendation in respect of a place, determine that the place is not to be included in
the Heritage Register but—
(i) refer the recommendation and any submissions to the relevant planning authority for
consideration for an amendment to a planning scheme; or
(ii) determine that it is more appropriate for steps to be taken under the Planning and Environment
Act 1987 or by any other means to protect or conserve the place; or
(d) in the case of a recommendation in respect of additional land which has been nominated to be
included in the Heritage Register as part of a registered place in accordance with section 32,
determine that the land be included in the Heritage Register if—
HMAS Castlemaine 26
VHR No: VHR H2407
Hermes No: 206261You can also read
