On this day (23rd August) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Australian Transport (1911-1918)

SS Australian Transport was a British cargo vessel built in 1911 by Irvine’s Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. Ltd., West Hartlepool. At the time of her loss during WW1, she was owned by Houlder Bros & Co. Ltd., London.

On 23 August 1918, whilst travelling on a voyage from Karachi to Bizerta, with a cargo of wheat and onions, Australian Transport was torpedoed and sunk by a German U-boat. At the time of the attack, the steamer of 4,764 tonnes was 40 miles WNW of Marettimo.

Sadly, one life was lost as a result.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu