No, it wasn't stolen. It was sent for reconditioning - sand-blasting, repainting, and new tyres.
Now it looks like it's just come off the production lines, but you won't be able to see it for a while yet because the Tanunda Sports Complex is going to undergo some construction and redevelopment activity and we aren't sure where we will position the cannon to obtain the best view for passers-by.
Not only that, wherever we place it, it will need to be on a concrete base and have a cover over the top and perhaps wind-breakers around one or more sides to protect it from the environment. We are currently seeking funds to help with that project.
History
The Ordnance QF 25-pounder, or more simply, 25-pounder was introduced into service just before World War II, during which it served as the major British field gun/howitzer. Combining high rates of fire with a reasonably lethal shell in a highly mobile piece, it was the British Army's primary artillery field piece well into the 1960s, with smaller numbers serving in training units until the 1980s.
Many Commonwealth of Nations countries used theirs, including Australia, in active or reserve service until about the 1970s. Our Army used a 25 pounder with a shorter barrel than the original British version.
While the Australian Army now uses the M777 155mm lightweight, towed howitzer, as its main artillery firepower, the 25 pounder served us well in the past.
It's interesting to know that shells for the 25 pounders are still produced by Pakistan Ordnance but most remaining cannon are used for ceremonial purposes.
We'll keep you posted when we bring the cannon out of storage.
