SENSATIONAL SHOOTING.

Gisborne Times, Volume X, Issue 948, 22 July 1903, Page 3

SENSATIONAL SHOOTING.

HOLE KNOCKED IN H.M.S. * WALLAROO. .VESSEL HIT BY. TORPEDOES. By Telegraph—Press AssociationCopyright, Received 11.27 p.m., July, 21. , SYDNEY,, July. 21. A sensational incident occurred .while the vessels ol the squadron were at torpedo practice in Jervis Bay on Saturday. The naval authorities are. very reticent, but Iron! the little information available it appears that the Royal Arthur, steaming past the Wallaroo, fired several practise torpedoes at the target the Wallaroo was dragging 300 yards behind her. Two from, the flagship’s starboard tube struck the Wallaroo, one near the port propel-, ler, denting the outer plating. The second did more serious damage. It hit an unprotected spot over the fresh water tank, which was luckily full and' prevented any inrush. The outer plating was broken. A hole several Inches square was made. The heads of both missiles crumpled up. Collision mats were placed over the hole, which was subsequently plugged with wooden wedges. The Wallaroo accompanied the other vessels to Sydney, where she will be docked An enquiry will be held, also an examination of the Royal Arthur’s torpedo-tube, which it is suggested was defective. Up to the time of the accident, the shooting was very accurate. Practice torpedoes are not charged and fitted .with dummy heads. Received 1.20 a.m., July 22. SYDNEY, July 21. It is stated that only, the outer portion of the Wallaroo was damaged! After examination by a diver and the damage had been attended to. the vessel, continued the practice., '