Bombing of Darwin
19 February 1942
Just before 10am, on 19 February 1942, World War II forced itself onto Australia’s mainland for the first time, when formations of 188 Japanese aircraft mounted a deadly air raid on Darwin, dropping more bombs than were used in the attack on Pearl Harbour. On that fateful day at least 235 people were killed, more than 400 were wounded, 30 aircraft were destroyed, 11 ships were sunk and many civilian and military facilities were damaged. This attack marked the first of at least 64 air raids on Northern Australia and attacks continued until 12 November 1943. The devastation suffered was profound.
In 2011 Bombing of Darwin Day joined Anzac Day and Remembrance Day as a National Day of Observance. On Bombing of Darwin Day we reflect on our past, pay tribute to the service men and women who courageously defended our country, and remember all those who were affected by the war fought over Northern Australia.
Over 2,000 women and children were evacuated from the Darwin region before it was bombed in 1942. Source: Northern Territory Library Peter Spillett Collection
HMAS Deloraine in Darwin Harbour, 19 February 1942. Source: AWM Accession Number 128108
Bombs rained down on Darwin city and direct hits were suffered by the Darwin Post Office, killing the post-master, his family and 6 female telegraphists, and the nearby residence of the Administrator, killing a young Aboriginal woman who was working for the family. Source: Northern Territory Library
After 64 Air-raid from February 1942 to November 1943, Darwin was virtually destroyed. Pictured here are the remains of the Bank of NSW on the corner of Smith and Bennett Streets. Source: Northern Territory Library
The remains of the ammunition ship, the Neptuna, that was tied up at the Wharf and suffered a direct hit killing at least 21 wharfies and 24 crew. Source: Northern Territory Library
A group of Aboriginal women employed with the “69 Australian Women’s Army Service”. Source: Northern Territory Library
Soldiers inspecting damage to defence buildings following a bombing raid. Source: AWM - Accession Number: 012699
February 1942. Australian troops inspect bomb damage caused by Japanese air raids. Darwin, NT. Source: AWM Accession Number 042870
Indigenous people living in remote parts of Northern Australia assisted the war effort in surveillance and rescue. In this instance, Aboriginal man, only known by the name Johnny, rescued an American fighter pilot who was shot down, but landed on a small island off the northern coast. Here Johnny explains how he found the pilot to a RAAF intelligence officer. (AWM)
RAAF personnel and an Aboriginal guide examine the wreckage of a Japanese 'Betty' bomber aircraft shot down by Squadron Leader R C Cresswell during a night attack on 23 November 1942 on Darwin. The bodies of nine Japanese were later found near the wrecked aircraft. (AWM)
The Tiwi Islands was home to a squad of locals who unofficially enlisted in a Navy unit that became known as the Snake Bay Patrol. Located on the critical path of Japanese air-craft headed for Darwin, the unit was responsible for special duties such as locating stranded airmen and Japanese mines. (AWM)
After breaking his leg in the first air raid, Gunner, a kelpie puppy, could foretell Japanese air attacks long before his human counterparts. Gunner would grow agitated when he heard Japanese aircraft approaching, thereby warning those around him to head for their slit trenches. (AWM)
Damage to Darwin was widespread. The photograph shows Cavenagh St, with a view across Bennett Street intersection toward the Esplanade. It shows Gordon’s Don Hotel and Chinatown. Source: Northern Territory Library
Riggers at the Royal Australian Navy Boom Defence Yard, preparing to launch a section of the anti-submarine netting down a chute alongside the Boom Wharf. Source: Northern Territory Library
Soldiers defending Darwin, 1942. Source: Northern Territory Library
Ships burning in Darwin Harbour, after the Bombing of Darwin, 1942. Source: Northern Territory Library