Patey's force combined Australia and Sydney with the French cruiser Montcalm and Encounter. The cruisers provided enough firepower to obstruct a German torpedo attack while Australia's 12-inch guns engaged at longer range. He kept the force concentrated as far as his authority allowed, resisting instructions to disperse it. Australia could make 25 knots and Sydney 25.7, while Montcalm and Encounter were limited to about 21 knots. Patey was prepared to leave the slower ships behind when speed mattered, and did so during his movements.
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Patey's concentrated Pacific force
Patey combined Australia's heavy guns with supporting cruisers, resisted dispersal, and was prepared to leave slower ships behind when speed mattered.