The Tribunal and Its Origins The International Military Tribunal for the Far East (IMTFE)—better known as the Tokyo Trials—was convened on 29 April 1946 by Supreme Allied Commander General Douglas MacArthur to prosecute Japanese wartime leaders. It was modelled directly on the Nuremberg Trials in Europe, adopting the same three Read more
Going North is a fine example of a classic Allied propaganda film from the Second World War. It tells the story of the massive force moving from the southern Pacific towards Japan — heading north. With imposing images, pompous music and a sharp commentary voice, the film leaves no doubt Read more
Hendrik Johan de Haas was born in Batavia (now Jakarta) on 28 November 1904, the son of Jozef Hendrik de Haas and Johanna Frederika Susanna Jostein. He married Hendrina Maria van der Meer Mohr in Batoeroesa on 2 January 1911. The couple had two children: Robert Johan (born 28 December Read more
By Dr Nonja Peters This paper examines the complex experiences of Dutch, Eurasian, and Indonesian evacuees who fled the Japanese occupation of the Netherlands East Indies during the Pacific War and found temporary refuge in Australia. Drawing on archival sources and eyewitness accounts, it explores their reception, living conditions, and Read more
When the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) collapsed under Japanese attack in early 1942, hundreds of Dutch airmen, sailors, and soldiers found themselves in Australia. Among the many military units reconstituted there was the 18 (Netherlands East Indies) Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), a unique Dutch–Australian squadron flying Read more
In 1705, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) launched an exploratory expedition to the Tiwi Islands, north of Arnhem Land in what is now the Northern Territory of Australia. The expedition, led by Commander Maerten van Delft, was one of several early attempts by the Dutch to chart the coastline Read more
In early 1942, as Japanese forces overran the Netherlands East Indies (NEI), Dutch authorities faced the urgent task of preserving their financial and sovereign assets. Among the most critical was the colony’s reserve of gold bullion—essential not just for wartime logistics, but for sustaining the legitimacy of the Dutch government-in-exile Read more
This series is a tribute to Dr. Jack Ford who passed away in June 2025 Symposium: Allied co-operation in Brisbane during WWII: Australia, USA, Netherlands, UK – 30–31 August 2025 at UQ- Bus Tour Brisbane WWII sites – 1 September More info. This article series explores the evolving relationship between Read more
Haskoning, part of the Dutch-based Haskoning group, is a globally recognised engineering and project management consultancy with over 140 years of experience. In Australia, Haskoning has established itself, since 2011, as a key player in maritime, water, coastal and environmental infrastructure—applying Dutch water management expertise to local conditions across the Read more
By Paul Budde, Chair, Dutch Australian Cultural Centre I was recently invited to address the event Future of Queensland Maritime and Ports, organised by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Queensland and supported by Haskoning. My contribution was to provide a brief overview of Dutch maritime history in relation to Read more