The challenging task facing the Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Society at present is the raising of funds for a sculpted memorial to be set in the grounds of the AWM in 2012. Next year will mark the seventieth anniversary of the Japanese invasion of the New Guinea islands and the sinking of the Montevideo Maru with the loss of over 1000 troops and civilian POWs; this stands as Australia’s greatest-ever maritime tragedy.

The memorial will commemorate the valour, fortitude and resilience of Australian troops and civilians of the Australian-administered New Guinea islands who faced the overwhelming invasion with unyielding courage.

A fine section of land has been earmarked for the memorial within the peaceful grounds of the Australian War Memorial. Five of Australia's finest sculptors are being asked to submit competing designs. A broad-based committee representing a dedicated Society membership of 300 veterans, relatives and friends is trying to raise $400,000 for this project but the first sod cannot be turned until the full budget is assured.

This is why we urge all Australians and friends of Australia to come to the aid of a great national project which will acknowledge and showcase the true horror and tragic impact of the Pacific war on the troops and families in the New Guinea islands. To date, the full story of the fall of Rabaul and the loss of the Montevideo Maru has often remained overlooked in deference to other events of the time.

Assistance is needed from companies, charitable organisations and foundation boards to donate to the memorial. You can also help by providing names of people and companies/corporations who have a special connection with the history of PNG and may be interested in such philanthropy.

As the Australian War Memorial is endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient by the Australian Taxation Office, an arrangement has been confirmed whereby the Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Society can transfer donations to the AWM for the purpose of erecting its memorial. These donations will be eligible for tax deductibility and tax receipts will be issued towards the end of the financial year.

All funds raised are applied to the construction of this overdue tribute to the 1500 Australian troops and civilians who died either in the New Guinea Islands or aboard the Montevideo Maru.

IF YOU CAN HELP IN ANY WAY, please email the Society at or write to the President, PO Box 1743, Neutral Bay NSW 2089.