Boat "Tangalooma" shot at by Troops at Fort Rous, Moreton Island

BOAT "TANGALOOMA" SHOT AT
BY TROOPS AT FORT ROUS, MORETON ISLAND

All Shipping entering Moreton Bay through the South Passage at the southern end of Moreton Island during WWII was required to give a coded response to a challenge from Rous Battery. One day, the ship "Tangalooma" continued through the passage despite all calls to hove to and identify itself. "Tangalooma" had passed within 200 metres of the beach where the Fort's infantry unit had assembled with rifles cocked. With no identifying message coming from the "mystery" ship, the order was given to open fire. The crew on the deck of "Tangalooma" ducked for cover as bullets whistled across the ships bow, and thudded into its wooden structure.

"Tangalooma" had been requisitioned from Fred Eager by the Australian Army Water Transport group during WWII. Doctor Noel Ure recognised the boat and yelled out to the troops to stop firing. He had visions of having treating numerous casualties. Fortunately, the soldiers stopped firing before any casualties resulted.

Seaward Defences for Moreton Bay

Fort Bribie

Rous Battery

Fort Cowan

RAN4 - The Bribie Island Indicator Loop Hut
Part of the Royal Navy's anti-submarine harbour defence for "Fortress Brisbane"

REFERENCE BOOKS

"Moreton Bay History" CD-Rom
by Peter Ludlow

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"Australia @ War" WWII Research Products