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Minister for the Environment and Energy, the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, commended the CSIRO and the Northern Territory Government for their joint efforts in finding this crucial missing piece in the story of Australia’s war against Japan.

“Seventy-four years have passed since the merchant ship Macumba left Sydney, carrying supplies for Darwin. It never arrived, with two Japanese floatplanes bombing the vessel on 6 August 1943, resulting in the loss of three lives,” Minister Frydenberg said.

“Time has not dimmed our memories of the event. This shipwreck site remains as significant as ever to our history and I want to give it full protection under Australia’s Historic Shipwrecks Act. This will help prevent any damage, interference, removal or destruction of the Macumba shipwreck or its associated relics.

“Once this declaration is made, I hope current and future generations will be able to explore and learn from this physical reminder of Australia’s role in the war in the Pacific.”

Minister Tehan said the discovery of the SS Macumba was an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of Australia's servicemen and women.

“The crew of the SS Macumba were serving their country on that fateful day their ship was attacked and sunk,” Minister Tehan said.

“Three crew members were killed as a result of that attack and the discovery of the Macumba’s wreck is an opportunity for Australians to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by those defending our country.

“The wreckage of the Macumba will now become a part of our military history and it is correct and proper for the Government to seek its protection under Australia’s Historic Shipwrecks Act."