Hi Ya from a new member

[Vivienne]

Just wanted to introduce myself my name is Vivienne, but please call me Viv it's what i prefer. I am a Forces Child my father was "John Kellas" who served on the HMS Duchess in 1953-1958 that was the last ship he served on. I've joined as i want to learn more about the naval life that he loved so much, and had told me many a wonderful story. Sadly he passed away 4 yrs ago on 28th June 2003 would love to hear from anyone at all who knew my father or knew of him, via a member of their own family if unsure you may have known him or of him by his nickname which was ironically due to being a scots man "Jock". Also i've joined to make friends as well so if anyone would to offer friendship or just a chat everyone welcome!

[jonti]

Hi Vivienne. I'm a new member as well and can tell you a little about the Duchess. She was a Daring Class destroyer built in the 1950's and was part of the Destroyer Squadron based in Malta in 1961-63 when I served on HMS Diamond at the same time and in the same squadron. You may recall a terrible collision at sea in 1963 between Australian ships HMAS Melbourne aircraft carrier and HMAS Voyager Daring Class destroyer, off Jervis Bay, New South Wales, when many lives were lost. The Duchess was either sold or loaned to the Australian Navy to replace the Voyager and was eventually decommissioned. The Duchess now forms part of the afloat section of the Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour, Sydney and is open to the Public for inspection (top sides only). Regards jonti

[Alan B]

Hi Viv and Jonti

Viv you can apply to the Naval records office for your dads naval record. Then you'll have a list of his ships which should help by widening your search for his old shipmates.

Jonti I'm not nitpicking but it's the Vampire at Darling Harbour. The Duchess bought in 1972 and was scrapped 7 May 1980.

Hope this helps

Good luck and all the best to both of you.

Alan:)

Viv try www.duchessd154.co.uk

[jonti]

Hi Alan. You are absolutely correct, and I have confused the UK Darings with those of OZ. I should have known the name of the Daring in Darling Harbour as I have been on it a couple of times in recent years. The aft superstructure is different from what I remember of the Diamond among other things. Regards Jonti.