HMAS Melbourne (II) was a Majestic class light fleet aircraft carrier, originally laid down for the Royal Navy as HMS Majestic in 1943 and later acquired by the Royal Australian Navy to establish a naval Fleet Air Arm. Commissioned into the RAN in 1955, Melbourne became the centrepiece of Australia’s naval aviation capability, providing a platform for fixed-wing aircraft operations and supporting a wide range of naval and joint exercises.
Melbourne is perhaps most remembered for her involvement in two major collisions, most notably with HMAS Voyager in 1964, which resulted in the loss of 82 lives. Despite this tragedy, the carrier continued to serve as a vital asset for the RAN, participating in exercises, deployments, and representing Australia’s naval presence in the region until her decommissioning. The ship’s service marked a significant chapter in the history of Australian naval aviation and maritime operations.
