Upcoming 50th Anniversary of HMCS KOOTENAY gearbox explosion

On October 23rd, 1969, HMCS KOOTENAY was exercising off the coast of England with a task group of ships of the Royal Canadian Navy when her starboard gearbox exploded, killing a total of 9 sailors - the RCN's largest ever peacetime accident. 

To mark the 50th anniversary of this event, I have a two-part article appearing in Warships International Fleet Review magazine. Part I will appear in the September issue, and Part II will appear in the October issue. Already out in the UK, the magazine is typically received in Halifax about a month late - the September issue should appear in Halifax in early October. 

The cover of the September 2019 issue.

I have written on this subject before, but the article has been expanded with some more detail and a survivor's account. 

Warships IFR is typically found in Halifax in both Atlantic News and Chapters.

CSS Acadia refit

Phase I of the ongoing refit of CSS Acadia is nearing its end, and the ship was opened up for visitors for the first time in a long time. Access was limited to the starboard side of the main deck, so that the public could see the re-decking progress.

Looking forward near the bow.

Some tools of the trade and a sample of the douglas fir being used to replace the old decking. Yes, it really is that thick. 

Once the decking is installed, oakum is hammered into the joints between the deck planking, and eventually a black sealant installed above the oakum.

Looking aft along the starboard side.

Looking aft at the stern.

If you look closely in the above photo, you can see the wood plugs placed above the steel bolts that holds the deck planking down to the steel deck. Some of the black sealant can be seen amongst the planking to the right of the photo.

A deck level view - the oakum is installed, but the sealant is missing.

Acadia's refit will continue into 2020. Built in 1913 and having seen service in both world wars, Acadia has earned the attention she is receiving.