Harbour Defence Motor Launch 1321 (HDML 1321) is known for her extraordinary service during WW2 behind enemy lines with Z Special Forces. During the 1950's HDML 1321 was used as a training ship and renamed Rushcutter. In 1971 she was sold to a private owner. HDML 1321 sank at her moorings in Darwin Harbour at 7.55am 19 October 2016 and efforts to save her for future generations is underway.

Tuesday, 18 April 2017

Removing Ballast from HDML 1321's Hull

Inside HDML 1321 US Marine Rotational Force Darwin remove lead ballast

Lead Weight

HDML 1321 Progress Report 10 April 2017 


The arduous work to remove the 6 tons of original BHP lead ballast ingots finally got underway.

All of the ballast had to be removed by hand from the dangerous, and rather unpleasant conditions inside the hull of HDML 1321. 

Our gratitude to the hard work of the young men of the US Marine Rotational Force Darwin cannot be expressed sufficiently.


Inside HDML 1321 US Marine Rotational Force Darwin remove lead ballast despite terrible conditions

This task was seeming to be an impossible hurdle, that may have seen the demise of the HDML 1321 once and for all, for without it's removal the relocation to Paspaley shipping yards could not be undertaken, but thankfully is now well underway. 

Darwin team securing HDML 1321 against cyclone Frances


Secure against Frances

HDML 1321 Progress Report 11 April 2017



In preparation for cyclone Frances, the Darwin team, Harry, Geoff, Phil and Robert were on site securing HDML 1321 to ensure her safety against surging waters crushing her against the concrete boat ramp which is positioned next to.

With the ballast removed the chances of such a catastrophe occurring were increased.

They did an admirable job in wet, windy and muddy conditions.

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