DNA test results - the Unknown Sailor

2 December 2008

Recent DNA testing of samples taken from a number of relatives of the crew of HMAS Sydney (II) has failed to identify the remains of the unknown sailor. The sailor's remains were exhumed from Christmas Island in October 2006.

Although the remains have not as yet been identified, they are believed to be those of a crew member of HMAS Sydney (II), which was sunk off the West Australian Coast on 19 November 1941 following enemy action. All 645 crew from HMAS Sydney (II) perished.

While an official reinterment and memorial service for the Unknown Sailor was held in Geraldton on 19 November 2008, the case is by no means closed.

DNA testing conducted by the Australia Centre for Ancient DNA located in Adelaide has excluded 15 crew members short listed following a thorough and methodical forensic and historical investigation in an attempt to identify the remains.

Family of HMAS Sydney (II) crew members who wish to be considered for DNA testing and comparison against the remains of the Unknown Sailor are asked to make contact with the Christmas Island Investigation Team by letter to:

Director Navy Ministerials & Coordination,
Department of Defence, R1-4-C070,
Russell Offices, Canberra, ACT, 2600.