The HMAS Marlean (Q20) was a channel patrol boat operated by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) during World War II. Originally built as a private vessel, she was constructed by J. Williams & Sons, laid down in 1938, and launched in 1939. The vessel measured 59 feet (18 meters) in length initially, with her length later increased by 10 feet to 69 feet (21 meters). Her beam was 14 feet 6 inches (4.42 meters). The ship's construction featured a keel and frames of spotted gum, with huon pine planking, highlighting her sturdy wooden build. Power was supplied by two six-cylinder Gray Marine engines, each producing 105 horsepower, enabling her to perform patrol duties effectively. The vessel was designed to accommodate a crew of eight, with three double and two single berth cabins, complemented by a deck saloon, dining saloon, toilet, shower room, and an aft galley equipped with a built-in refrigerator. Requisitioned by the RAN, Marlean was commissioned on 30 November 1941. She was armed with .303 Vickers machine guns positioned fore and aft, and she was fitted with depth charge racks on her stern, emphasizing her role in patrol and defense duties. During the Battle of Sydney Harbour in May 1942, she played a protective role by moving to the western end of the boom net following initial explosions, contributing to the harbour’s defense. After the battle, Marlean continued patrols around Sydney, Port Kembla, and Newcastle. On 14 April 1944, her command was transferred to the Naval Auxiliary Patrol (NAP) unit of the RAN. Despite being awarded a Battle Honour for "Darwin 1942," there is no record of her serving in Darwin; instead, she remained active in southern Australian waters. Her service ended tragically when she was consumed by fire and an explosion of a depth charge at Obelisk Bay, Sydney Harbour, on 12 November 1944. The HMAS Marlean remains a notable example of the small, wooden patrol vessels that contributed to Australia's wartime naval efforts.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.