Calls to preserve largest Australian World War II prison camp
The camp housed Italian, German and Japanese prisoners between 1941 and 1947 and a portion of the former site is now on the market.
A son of a former internee at Australia's largest World War II POW camp is advocating for the preservation of this significant historical site. Camp 13, located in Murchison, Victoria, housed Italian, German and Japanese prisoners between 1941 and 1947. The property, currently on the market, features a memorial to German sailors involved in the sinking of the HMAS Sydney, the largest naval tragedy in Australia's history.
Shane Pruckner, the son of a POW, recalls his father's experience at the camp, where he was treated well and even helped escape by some guards. Post-war, his father chose to settle in Australia, with assistance from former camp officials. The site also hosts a gun placement, installed to secure the Japanese prisoners transferred there after the Cowra massacre in 1944.
Real estate agent Natalie Kay, who has received inquiries from potential buyers interested in turning the site into a tourist attraction, emphasizes the importance of preserving the site's historical significance. Camp 13's owner hopes that the property will be preserved for future generations to learn about this crucial chapter in Australian history.
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