Explosives Factory Maribynong (EFM) - metal disc

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Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory

c. 1940

Overview

Lightweight, silver coloured metal worker's token issued by the Explosives Factory in Maribyrnong, Victoria.
It is circular in shape with a small hole at the top for hanging. It has the letters 'EFM' stamped on the front. The back surface has no markings.

Part of a larger grouping relating to the Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory in Maribyrnong, Victoria.

Historical information

The Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory was the key installation in a network of defence factories which made Maribyrnong the Arsenal of Australia from 1910 to the 1980s.
The Explosives Factory was critical in the establishment of defence industries in Australia, making it one of the most important outcomes of Federation effecting defence and foreign policy in the 20th century.
The EFM was the first Government explosives factory (and only one until the Second World War) manufacturing Cordite for ammunition shells and other propellants and explosives.
The Defence site of 315 acres housed up to 500 structures in its heyday. The Munitions Supply Laboratories (M.S.L.) was another of the important facilitires on the site.
Local and foreign dignitaries were taken on tours of the site to show off Australia's defence capabilities.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW00110

Item type

Themes

Social History
War and Conflict
War and Conflict > World War 2

Material

Aluminium