HMAS Coonawarra Men's T-shirt blue (Style Alpha)

HMAS Melville was established as a naval depot in 1935 and formally commissioned in 1940 to support World War II operations. Its Wireless Transmitting Station played a vital role in Allied communications in the South-West Pacific despite enduring Japanese bombing raids. After the war, the base’s operations decreased due to urban development and a shifting naval presence, leading to its relocation to HMAS Coonawarra in 1970. The original facilities remained in use until Cyclone Tracy destroyed them in 1974.

Today, HMAS Coonawarra is a key hub for Australia’s northern maritime defence, hosting Armidale and Cape-class patrol boats and over 700 personnel. It supports border security and regional defence activities, welcoming around 100 Australian and foreign warships annually for major exercises and operations, maintaining its strategic importance as a gateway to Australia’s northern neighbours.

Made from beautifully soft 100% combed cotton (marles 15% polyester) these shirts are produced with a crew neck, side seamed, shoulder to shoulder tape, double-needle hems and are pre-shrunk to minimise shrinkage. They’re a regular fit and seriously comfy at 180gsm (mid-weight).

Australian printed and produced product. Australian Navy spouse designed and owned.