The Fearful Torpedo Explosion at Sandridge.

The Cerberus has been practicing at the Heads during the last day or two, and this afternoon it was understood that a torpedo would be laid and exploded at the entrance of one of the channels. Six men in a boat left the Cerberus, which lay at anchor off Point Nepean, carrying with them the torpedo, with instructions to place it in position. They had not proceeded more than a hundred and fifty yards from the vessel when the missile exploded, blowing the boat and six men into the air. Three men were picked up frightfully injured, and two died almost immediately. Some hopes are entertained that the third man may recover. Search was made for the three other bodies, but not a trace could be found. Dr. Williams, of Queenscliff, sent for to the ship, and promptly attended, and gave all necessary attention to the wounded men.

Original engraving from the original edition of, The Illustrated Sydney News.