Summary

Colonial Ammunition Company Maribyrnong Home Service Skilled Worker's voided hat badge, manufactured by Stokes & Sons circa 1915. 'Home Service' badges were originally intended to be worn in public by workers employed in industries that directly supported the War effort, thereby avoiding some of the allegations an d questions from those suspicious of why they had not volunteered for active service.

Established by the British registered Colonial Ammunition Co Ltd in 1888, the Colonial Ammunition Works produced small arms ammunition for colonial defence forces, recreational, competition and sporting shooters using initially black powder and later cordite. By 1915, the company was heavily involved in Australia's war effort employing over 600 workers on three shifts operating around the clock. It was within this context that the works manager George A. Cartwright designed this badge which was issued to all employees. After the War the workforce at the Colonial Ammunition Works declined as defence contracts were lost and the works became unprofitable. It was eventually acquired by the Commonwealth Government in 1927, becoming part of a large complex of government-owned munitions works based around Maribyrnong.

Physical Description

Colonial Ammunition Company Maribyrnong Home Service Skilled Worker's voided hat badge 40mm with CAC monogram in centre.

More Information