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OUR STORY
By 10 April 1941, the German and Italian forces under the command of Lieutenant General Erwin Rommel had surrounded the Tobruk garrison which was being defended by British Commonwealth forces including more than 14,000 Australians, under the command of Major General Leslie Morshead. Along the perimeter the first shots were exchanged. The siege had begun. Heavy fighting continued for 242 days. It was an epic battle and despite heavy casualties, the Tobruk garrison was held. Finally on 7 December 1941, Rommel was forced to abandon the siege. This was one of the longest sieges in British military history and gave rise to the legend of the mighty ‘Rats of Tobruk’. This site is dedicated to them.
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OUR STORY
By 10 April 1941, the German and Italian forces under the command of Lieutenant General Erwin Rommel had surrounded the Tobruk garrison which was being defended by British Commonwealth forces including more than 14,000 Australians, under the command of Major General Leslie Morshead. Along the perimeter the first shots were exchanged. The siege had begun. Heavy fighting continued for 242 days. It was an epic battle and despite heavy casualties, the Tobruk garrison was held. Finally on 7 December 1941, Rommel was forced to abandon the siege. This was one of the longest sieges in British military history and gave rise to the legend of the mighty ‘Rats of Tobruk’. This site is dedicated to them.
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EXHIBITION
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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Latest News

Tobruk Sunday commemorative service

April 20, 2026 No Comments

Thank you to all who attended our Tobruk Sunday commemorative service at Tobruk House on Sunday. We were extremely honoured to have Australia’s Governor General, the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC,

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Anzac Day Report

March 22, 2026 No Comments

What an amazing turn out for 2026 Anzac Day. Tobruk House was abuzz with sausages sizzling and people enjoying themselves after the march. Many thanks to all who attended with

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Our Rats of Tobruk Book

March 22, 2026 No Comments

It’s here! We have had numerous requests from people who have visited Tobruk House to publish our exhibition which has been on display there for several years. The display panels

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Rats of Tobruk Association Inc

44 Victoria Ave, Albert Park VIC 3206

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DISCLAIMER

The Committee of ‘The Rats of Tobruk Association Inc.’ advise that the information, data and other materials (the information) provided on this website is for general information purposes only.   While we make every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of the information, some of the information may not be complete, and may contain inaccuracies or errors.  We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and we accept no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may arise from using or relying on the information.

If you believe any information is inaccurate, please let us know by contacting us at: ratsoftobruk41@gmail.com

Acknowledgement

It is acknowledged that some of the images and content included in this website have been sourced from the Australian War Memorial collection (www.awm.gov.au) and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website (anzacportal.dva.gov.au).The association greatly appreciates the contribution made by both organisations.