View
1
Download
0
Category
Preview:
Citation preview
Serving Australia with pride
Anzac Day coverageRelevance enduresPage 2
NEWSNAVYVolume 63, No. 7, April 30, 2020
LEUT Daniel James salutes at the end of NUSHIP Sydney's gangway at dawn for Anzac Day, Fleet Base East, Sydney. LEUT James pays respect in the same manner as people marking the day at the end of their driveways at dawn in lieu of not being able to attend services.Photo: AB Leon Dafonte Fernandez
SALUTE TO SERVICE
Plus: four-page lift-out
2 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020
news.navy.gov.au
twitter.com/Australian Navy
EDITORIALDirectorDavid Edlington
Acting Managing EditorRichard Mihaich
EditorMichelle Fretwell: (02) 6265 1355ReportersSGT Max Bree CPL Sebastian BeurichCPL Veronica O’HaraCPL Julia WhitwellLSIS Kylie JagielloSGT Dave Morley
navynews@defencenews.gov.auThe Editor, Navy News, R1-G-C036, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600
ADVERTISING AND SUBSCRIPTIONSMarketing ManagerTim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or
0459 842 551
Assistant Marketing ManagerPam Clarke: (02) 6265 2427
advertising@defencenews.gov.au subscriptions1@defencenews.gov.au
DISCLAIMERNavy News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence News. It is printed under contract by Spotpress Pty Ltd. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Navy News. Every advertisement is subject to Directorate of Defence News approval and the Directorate of Defence News may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence News. Defence does not endorse the products or services pub-lished in advertisements.
youtube.com/RANMedia
facebook.com/RoyalAustralianNavy
twitter.com/DeptDefence
OTHER NAVY CHANNELS
ISSN 2209-2277 (print)ISSN 2209-2242 (online)
READ US ONLINE
Web: www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews. While there, register to receive an email alert for each new digital edition.
NNAVYAVY NEWSNEWS
Anzac Day lift-out
How our Navy people marked a special day in
isolation Pages 9-12
Anzac Day significance remains LEUT Ryan Zerbe
While AnzacDay commemorations were unable to proceed this year in order to preserve public health, the significance of the day was not lost on Navy people.
While many members of the pub-lic observed the day at home, LEUT Daniel James, of NUSHIP Sydney, was on duty aboard the ship at Garden Island, Sydney.
The discreet nature of Anzac Day this year did nothing to take away from its significance.
“Commemorating Anzac Day in this manner demonstrates the impor-tance of the occasion and the agility of the Nation and the RAN to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service of Australia,” Lieutenant James said.
“These unprecedented times have required flexibility by all members of the RAN in all aspects of our business. Being able to commemorate the event from the brow of NUSHIP Sydney is
It’s safety first in Adelaide
LEUT Geoff Long
THE ship’s company of HMAS Adelaide has led the way in observ-ing strict health and safety protocols to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic while also extending the capability of the ship at sea.
Adelaide left her homeport of Sydney in late March to conduct first-of-class flight trials for the MH-60 ‘Romeo’ helicopters off the coast of Queensland.
The successful trials were used to determine the safe operating limits of the Romeo on the LHD in a range of sea states and wind speeds.
Adelaide Senior Medical Officer CMDR Douglas Falconer said the tri-als were a prime example of how the
fleet can support whole-of-govern-ment COVID-19 efforts while main-taining operational preparedness.
“While in Adelaide we’ve made sure we’ve implemented the federal Department of Health guidelines to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 where practicable,” CMDR Falconer said.
“To further protect the health and safety of the crew we’ve also sus-pended shore leave while in port and new crew must spend 14 days in self isolation before joining the ship,” he said.
This has also included rigorous hand washing and other preventative hygiene measures.
CMDR Falconer is the Senior Medical Adviser for Diving Medicine
based at HMAS Penguin and is cur-rently embarked in Adelaide for his specialist skills as a general practi-tioner and a procedural anaesthetist.
Other strict hygiene measures on board include regular hand-washing, surface cleaning and spot checks with thermometers to check for crew mem-bers with high temperatures.
During three weeks at sea the crew also received an annual flu vac-cination.
“In the unfortunate event that someone does become unwell with COVID-19 symptoms, we’ve got six isolation rooms on board where the member can be looked after and protect the rest of the crew,” CMDR Falconer said.
“So we have a number of proto-cols available to make sure everyone is safe.”
CO Adelaide CAPT Jonathan Ley said Navy’s strict measures in its ships ensured the continuation of essential training while preserving the health and welfare of its people.
All crew in Adelaide were screened for COVID-19 symptoms before departure.
At sea, health threats including communicable diseases like COVID-19 are deliberately considered as part of force health protection.
Video can be found at: youtu.be/nZvRAEBEvC0
HMAS Adelaide during first -of-class flight trials for the MH-60 Romeo off the coast of Queensland.Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
no less a poignant occasion.”“Next year our ship’s company
will be able to mark the day as HMAS Sydney V carrying on the legacy of the four ships that came before us but especially in memory of our former shipmates killed in action in our Ship’s 107-year legacy.”
NUSHIP Sydney is Navy’s newest Air Warfare Destroyer and arrived at her homeport of Garden Island for the first time in March.
She will commission in May.
LEUT Daniel James salutes at the end of NUSHIP Sydney's gangway at dawn in support of Anzac Day commemorations at Fleet Base East, Sydney. Photo: AB Leon Dafonte Fernandez
COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Do you want a PHAT Tax Return?
• Investment properties• Members who have served overseas• Late lodgement of tax returns• Members who have been medically discharged
1300 763 575or visit us online at
www.phatreturns.com.au
Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a great tax return every year
Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment
We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities, including:
DEFENCE FORCE TAX SPECIALISTS
3April 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Sailors from HMAS Stirling naval base assist WA Police to slow the spread of Coronavirus during Easter, at traffic control points along main highways south of Perth. Photo: CAPT Ainsley Morthorpe
THE ADF has successfully rolled out an online training package to support Defence personnel who may be deployed as part of De-fence’s response to COVID-19.
The t ra in ing courses a re designed to quickly prepare ADF personnel, who do not have a medi-cal background, to conduct other duties as part of Operation COVID-19 Assist.
CDF GEN Angus Campbell said to date more than 52,000 Defence personnel had enrolled in the train-ing courses.
“The courses cover a range of
topics, from general awareness about COVID-19, to the skills required to support federal, state and territory authorities, whether that is working in health facilities as orderlies or supporting quaran-tine compliance measures,” GEN Campbell said.
“Over the course of Operation COVID-19 Assist, many ADF members will find themselves per-forming tasks outside their normal duties.
“With these online training courses, ADF personnel will have the necessary skills and knowledge
to enable them to assist in whatever tasks they may be called upon to support.”
Following the successful rollout to Defence personnel, the courses will now also be made available to Australia’s international military partners.
“The ADF has a proud histo-ry of supporting our international partners in times of need,” GEN Campbell said.
Further information on Operation COVID-19 Assist can be found at: news.defence.gov.au/national/daily-update-defence-response-covid-19
LEUT Jessica Kuk at the NSW Health COVID-19 Contact Trace Centre.Photo: SGT Ray Vance
Online training for COVID-19 support
COVID-19 PANDEMIC
CMDR Chris Forward
SUBMARINE Force personnel from Fleet Base West are stepping up to do their bit to assist Operation COVID-19 Assist.
WO Tony O'Rielly said 10 Submarine Force members were deployed to sup-port the task force throughout Western Australia.
“Being one of the first groups of Navy personnel in Western Australia to be assigned to this role has been exciting and challenging," WO O'Rielly said.
“All the people here are keen to con-tribute to the national effort to flatten the curve of the spread of coronavirus.”
LS Christian Thom was one of the other personnel assisting in WA.
Stepping up to assist
– WO Tony O’Rielly
All the people here are keen to contribute to the national effort to flatten the curve.
“It wasn’t how I was expecting to spend my day a few weeks ago, but I am happy to do my part as a service person to help,” LS Thom said.
“It certainly shows that life in the ser-vices is never dull, that’s for sure.”
“
4 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020
Coin to set new ship on an even keel
CN VADM Mike Noonan gives his address via video link during the keel-laying ceremony.
5NEWSApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
LCDR Helen Ward
DURING the ceremonial keel laying for Navy’s second Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide, CN VADM Mike Noonan announced the names of the next five vessels.
Observing COVID-19 restrictions, VADM Noonan delivered his speech via video link, saying the keel laying was a significant project milestone.
“Keel laying is an important shipyard and naval tradition, where the two groups come together to observe a moment that not only initiates the formal construction phase of the build but also is thought to bring good luck through the build phase and subsequent life of the ship,” VADM Noonan said.
He thanked industry partners Luerssen Australia and ASC, who have built and commenced consolidation of the keel blocks of the 1600-tonne offshore patrol vessel.
“The naming of a vessel is also a significant milestone and, as you know, the first OPV, when commissioned, will be named HMAS Arafura, and thus the class will be referred to as the Arafura-class,” VADM Noonan said.
“Significantly, it will be the first Navy ship to ever carry this name.
“It also represents a significant coastal land and sea region of Australia.”
The naming convention following maritime regions and first names for Navy ships will continue with the next five vessels.
On commissioning in 2023, OPV 2 will be known as HMAS Eyre.
OPV 3 will be HMAS Pilbara, OPV 4 HMAS Gippsland, OPV 5 HMAS Illawarra and OPV 6 HMAS Carpentaria.
“The names encapsulate the importance of these littoral regions around Australia and mark their significance to the nation's security and prosperity,” VADM Noonan said.
“Furthermore, the naming of each vessel is the beginning of a longstanding bond between the named region, communities and centres, and the RAN, our Navy people and the men and women who will ultimately serve in each of these ships.
“In spite of the circumstances we find ourselves in, we are still sending our Navy people to sea, we are still building ships and we are still meeting the requirements of government to defend Australia and our national interests.”
The OPV project includes the construction of two ships at Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia and 10 at Civmec’s facility in Henderson, Western Australia.
Imagery of the ceremony is available at: images.navy.gov.au/S20201363
1300 784 246 or visit www.spect.com.au
Spectrum is a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Registered Tax Agent & hold an Australian Credit Licence.Australian Credit Licence No 476980
REID SWIFT - PrincipalReid is a Chartered Accountant, Tax Agent, Mortgage Broker and Real Estate Agent with over 16 years experience dealing with ADF members.
Chat to one of our friendly home loan specialists today!
Refinancing your home loan can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage. Switching is easier than you think. Let us compare the lenders for you.
REFINANCE YOUR HOME LOAN TODAY!
– CN VADM Mike Noonan
The naming of each vessel is the beginning of a longstanding bond between the named region, communities and centres, and the RAN, our Navy people and the men and women who will ultimately serve in each of these ships.
“
Evyenia Kontakos, a fourth-year apprentice welder and boilermaker from the Australian Submarine
Corporation, and Director-General Naval Construction Branch CDRE Steve Tiffen hammer
wedges to secure the CN’s ceremonial coin in place during the keel-laying ceremony for the second Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel.
Photos: Russell Millard
CDRE Steve Tiffen with the ceremonial coin.
1300 784 246 or visit www.spect.com.au
Spectrum is a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Registered Tax Agent & hold an Australian Credit Licence.Australian Credit Licence No 476980
REID SWIFT - PrincipalReid is a Chartered Accountant, Tax Agent, Mortgage Broker and Real Estate Agent with over 16 years experience dealing with ADF members.
Chat to one of our friendly home loan specialists today!
Refinancing your home loan can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage. Switching is easier than you think. Let us compare the lenders for you.
REFINANCE YOUR HOME LOAN TODAY!
defencebank.com.au1800 033 139
David Marshall.Chief Executive Officer.
Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL / Australian Credit Licence 234582.
As the coronavirus situation evolves I wanted to update you personally on Defence Bank’s current position. I’m outlining our planning and response to coronavirus, so that you can be certain that Defence Bank has plans in place to maintain banking services.
Our purpose is to serve those who protect us and we are ready to assist members during this challenging time.
Defence Bank is in a strong financial position with one of the highest credit ratings, BBB/Stable/A2 by S&P Global Ratings, for a member owned bank in Australia.
So what’s ahead?Currently, Defence Bank is open for business for all our Members with our branches remaining open across Australia unless otherwise advised by the ADF. Our immediate priorities are as always to;
• support the well-being of both our Members and employees; and• ensure our everyday banking services continue to be delivered.
As part of our business continuity planning we have implemented a range of measures to meet these objectives which include:
• Restricted travel. Business related domestic and international air travel has been restricted. Travellers returning from overseas are self-isolating for 14 days in line with the government guidelines.
• Remote access. We are continuing to use our remote access capabilities, allowing many employees to perform their tasks remotely as required.
Importantly, we will continue to closely monitor and be guided by Commonwealth government advice on how to operate during this period.
Banking from a distance. We understand that not all Members may wish to visit a branch in today’s environment so we remind members that Defence Bank provides a number of convenient options to manage their everyday banking without the need to visit a branch. These include:
• Online Banking and our award-winning mobile banking app, which allows you to make payments by BPay, send and receive money instantly using Osko and PayID, change your PIN, report your card lost or stolen as well as a range of other options;
• Australia based Contact Centre; and,• all five digital wallet options which allow you to contactless pay using Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Garmin and Fitbit Pay.
Financial Hardship. We count on you, and you can count on us. If you have been impacted by coronavirus please don’t hesitate to contact us on1800 033 139 or email info@defencebank.com.au to see how we can help you.
In summary.Coronavirus has created a challenging time for everyone, and we are committed to continuing to provide you with the highest level of personal service.
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact me directly on my mobile 0414 789 381or by email david.marshall@defencebank.com.au.
A message fromour CEO, David.
7NEWSApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
IN THE peak of the 2019-20 Antarctic summer, hydrogra-pher LEUT Danielle Brit ton embarked on a six-week voyage to Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands on board Peruvian Navy polar research vessel BAP Carrasco.
The first placement of its kind between the two Navies, the voy-age was not only an opportunity to engage with Australia’s allies across the Pacific but a unique opportunity for the hydrographic service to broaden the experience of its people.
After a 40-hour transit, LEUT Britton joined the ship in Punta Arenas, Chile.
“Being a Navy ship it was a familiar yet foreign environment on board,” LEUT Britton said.
“The Peruvian Navy structure is much like ours, however, the food and daily routine are quite different.
“Potato, pork and legumes form the basis of many meals and the only milk available was canned evaporated milk.
“The working hours also extend well into the night due to the Peruvian adherence to siestas, a custom which I had to quickly adjust to in order to get enough sleep.”
After sailing from Punta Arenas, Carrasco transited through the breathtaking Chilean Patagonian channels to the southern tip of the South American continent.
“Our first attempt to cross the infamous Drake Passage was unsuccessful,” LEUT Britton said.
“Many of the crew and embarked scientists went down with sea sickness.
“When we later made the cross-ing there was a lot of excitement on board as we passed the 60 degrees south parallel into Antarctic territory.
“Humpback whales and swim-ming gentoo penguins became a very common sight as the ship
sailed further south.”The crew commenced the
base resupply upon arrival at the Peruvian ’Machu Picchu’ base on King George Island.
“Once complete, the ship, with its lower decks full of keen scientists, set to work out in the Bransfield Strait,” LEUT Britton said.
While Australian Navy hydro-graphic units deploy to Antarctica primarily to conduct shore-based, small boat, bathymetric surveying in support of safety of navigation, Carrasco’s taskings were largely oceanographic in nature.
The ship’s primary role is to support scientific research projects from national and international universities.
“From underwater volcanoes to sub-seafloor profiling for magnetic currents, there was always some-thing fascinating to get involved in,” LEUT Britton said.
“This voyage has opened my eyes to how other countries conduct Antarctic operations.
“I am interested to see how Australia’s whole-of-government approach to Antarctic operations evolves with the introduction of the impressively capable Australian Antarctic vessel RSV Nuyina, replacing Aurora Australis in 2020.”
Naval officers from Italy, Spain, Panama and France were also embarked for the voyage, as was a UK hydrographic office cartographer.
“Having fellow hydrographic experienced officers on board made this a truly multinational, and multi-lingual experience,” LEUT Britton said.
“There was a variety of polar navigation and surveying experi-ence amongst us and I have cer-tainly gained a broad oversight of how other nations operate in polar regions.”
Deployment like no other
Hydrographic Officer LEUT Danielle Britton visits the Snozco Glacier behind Peruvian Antarctic Base Machu Picchu.
LEUT Danielle Britton, second from right, on the quarterdeck of the Peruvian Navy polar research vessel BAP Carrasco, with embarked officers from France, Italy, England, Panama and Spain.
Peruvian Navy polar research vessel BAP Carrasco in Bahia Esperanza, in the Antarctic Peninsula.
– LEUT Danielle Britton
Humpback whales and swimming gentoo penguins became a very common sight as the ship sailed further south.
“
8 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020
LEUT Matthew Newman
THE commanding officers who made Navy history as the first married couple to command patrol boats at the same time, have found a unique opportunity to test their crews’ seamanship skills.
CO HMAS Ararat LCDR Khan Beaumont and CO HMAS Maitland LCDR Julia Griffin knew when they both posted to seagoing commands they would not spend much time together.
However, following Maitland’s successful patrol at Ashmore Island and Ararat’s logistics visit in Port Melville, both as part of Operation Resolute, the two commanding officers identi-fied their patrol boats would be in passage together west of the Tiwi Islands (north of Darwin).
According to LCDR Griffin, this provided an optimal training opportunity for the two crews, as well as a chance to work closely and build on their camaraderie.
“The day was an excel-lent opportunity for the two ships to display their skills and operate closely together,” LCDR Griffin said.
“LCDR Beaumont’s time
in command is also drawing to an end, so this encounter provided both of us with a unique and memorable oppor-tunity to work together.”
The opportunity involved a six-hour period of in-company steaming with Ararat and Maitland conducting officer-of-the-watch manoeuvres and screenplay station for Phase III maritime warfare officer training.
Tow approaches and a tow-ing exercise (TOWEX) were also conducted, with Ararat taking Maitland under tow.
SMNBM Samuel Allen said the successive serials gave both ships first-hand experience of operating in close proximity to another Navy unit and allowed the ships' companies to conduct a TOWEX with another patrol boat.
“The evolution was a good way to put into practice the seamanship training and procedures Maitland have been training for and conduct a TOWEX, which is core to our jobs as boatswains,” SMN Allen said.
Operation Resolute is the ADF’s contribution to the whole-of-government effort to protect Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests.
LCDR Julia Griffin controls HMAS Maitland from the starboard bridge wing as the Armidale-class patrol boat prepares to steam alongside HMAS Ararat in waters west of Tiwi Islands, NT.
In passage together
LEUT Ryan Zerbe
HMAS Gascoyne is receiving renewed life with a five-yearly refit, ensuring she remains ready to fight and live up to her motto “Return to the sea”.
The 52-metre-long Huon-class minehunter coastal (MHC) is undergoing a refit in Sydney fol-lowing her most recent overseas deployment.
Gascoyne was removed from the water in the Captain Cook Graving Dock at Garden Island where her propeller was removed and her hull repainted while all of her major systems also are being removed, refurbished and over-hauled.
CO Gascoyne LCDR Sean Aitken said the refit had left the ship looking almost brand new and will improve how she sails.
“Cleaning the hull and replace-ing Gascoyne’s anti-fouling fittings will have a significant impact on Gascoyne’s performance once back at sea,” LCDR Aitken said.
“We found that during our last deployment with our sister ship HMAS Diamantina, we were roughly one knot slower and had a higher rate of fuel consumption.
“This refit will make us a faster and more efficient vessel.
“We’ve also inspected the rud-der and shaft, replaced or over-hauled our cranes, fire pumps and replaced multiple valves through-out the ship.”
The refit comes after a busy pre 12-months, with Gascoyne sailing more than 22,000 nautical miles in 2019 during two deployments to the south-west Pacific and north-east Asia.
C o m m i s s i o n e d i n 2 0 0 1 , Gascoyne is homeported at HMAS Waterhen in Sydney, with sister ships Diamantina, Huon and Yarra.
Imagery is available at: images.navy.gov.au/S20201320.
Major system upgrade
HMAS Gascoyne undergoing refit in the Captain Cook Graving Dock at Garden Island, Sydney, following a recent deployment.Photo: LSIS Ryan McKenzie
SGT Max Bree
AUSTRALIA faces an uncertain future, just as it did when the Gallipoli landing took place more than 100 years ago, according to CN VADM Mike Noonan.
“The Anzac legend was borne out of a time of uncertainty; of a time when our young nation was looking for direction,” VADM Noonan said.
“In 2020 on Anzac Day, we face uncertainty.
“We don’t know what the next three-months will hold. We don’t know
what the next six-months will hold.” VADM Noonan said it was
important to gain strength from Australia’s history and reflect on what it is to be in the Navy.
“We’re in a very different circumstance to those of previous years when we think about commemoration of Anzac Day,” he said.
“It is different; we haven’t done things we’ve traditionally done.”
VADM Noonan was slated to attend a service at Anzac Cove before it was cancelled and major events
replaced by one national ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.
Instead, he watched the service from home.
“It’s a great opportunity for all Australians, particularly those in the Navy to reflect on what service means,” he said.
“I think about the people I’ve served with over my time.
“I think about the people who are serving in our defence force today and particularly those at sea on Anzac Day.
“I think about my ancestors who have served in the defence force.
“I think about those men and women who have served in our defence force and given the ultimate sacrifice for their country, along with those who continue to suffer from the injuries and stresses of war.”
VADM Noonan said it was also a good time to think about the people who support Defence personnel.
“Think of their sacrifice and what it means to have a strong family and strong friends that support what we need to do,” he said.
Overall, CN wanted Navy personnel to think about what it means
to be Australian. “Anzac Day 2020 is very different
to any other Anzac Day we’ve experienced in our lifetimes but it does not change in any way the roles and responsibilities we have,” VADM Noonan said.
“Anzac Day is always important. It’s important for all Australians to reflect on it however you can.
“It’s a reflection of our national history, what we’ve achieved, mostly in war, but also what we stand for in peace.”
CN VADM Mike Noonan spoke at the Digger Memorial in Bullecourt, France, on Anzac Day last year and was due to attend the Anzac Cove service in Gallipoli this year but watched the service from home instead. Photo: SGT William Guthrie
NEW WAY TO MARK THE DAY
Anzac Day lift-out
ANZAC DAY LIFT-OUT10
LEUT Geoff Long
ANZAC Day this year was different for senior medical officer CMDR Douglas Falconer, who spent it at sea in HMAS Adelaide rather than at his local RSL dawn service and the Sydney march.
Then again, he acknowledged it was different for everyone.
“It was remembered in a very different light compared to previous years, as the changes to the world meant this time of reflection had a different meaning,” CMDR Falconer said.
CMDR Falconer is the senior medical adviser for Diving Medicine, based at HMAS Penguin, and is embarked in Adelaide for his specialist skills as a general practitioner and a procedural anaesthetist.
As for many others, Anzac Day is an important day of remembrance for him and his family.
“It is not only a time to reflect on those who have given their lives for their country in the past but also to remember those former serving and currently serving and their personal sacrifices,” he said.
“It is important to my family as my great
LEUT Jessica Craig
EVERY Anzac Day since he left Hobart to join Navy in 1992, CPOML-S Scott Clear has messaged his dad, a Vietnam veteran, to thank him for his service.
He upheld that significant tradition this year but what followed was different.
Rather than marching down the streets of Sydney with his colleagues from HMAS Kuttabul, he proudly commemorated the day from his balcony, standing at dawn, wearing a hand-knitted poppy.
CPO Clear describes himself as an “army brat” who was destined to continue his family’s strong tradition of military service.
“My Great Uncle Jack Allen Clear served in WWII, was a POW in Burma and sadly died while working on the Burma railway,” CPO Clear said.
“My father, who is named after my Great Uncle Jack, served in Vietnam, namely the infamous battle of Long Tan.
“Growing up with this knowledge, I
had and continue to have respect for their service from a very young age. So Anzac Day is very special to me.”
CPO Clear has his own service history to be proud of, having helped rebuild East Timor as part of the 1999 Interfet effort and receiving a Unit Citation from his 2003 service in Iraq during the Gulf War and the international campaign against terrorism.
CPO Clear said his fondest Anzac Day memory was marching with his dad in Hobart.
The poppy CPO Clear wore this year came from another Anzac Day he held close to his heart.
“On Anzac Day in 2017, an HMAS Kanimbla reunion was held in Jingellic, a little country town on the border of NSW and Victoria,” he said.
“One of the hosts, a 97-year-old lady who had lost a large number of her family members in WWI and WWII, made hand-knitted poppies which I purchased and wore when I stood at dawn this Anzac Day.”
LEUT Geoff Long
AS THE dawn broke over the east coast of Australia on Anzac Day, maritime warfare officer SBLT Samantha Randell was on officer-of-the-watch duty on the bridge of HMAS Adelaide.
While the 24-year-old officer previously commemorated the day at a dawn service with friends and shipmates, she was happy to mark this year’s Anzac Day at sea.
“It’s a significant part of Australian history and it keeps the memory alive of all of those that made the ultimate sacrifice,” SBLT Randell said.
“It’s in these moments that we are really united as one, as we remember the fallen and look to the future.”
SBLT Randell joined Navy in 2013 as a 17-year-old but could easily have been lost to another service.
“I went to an ADFA open day in 2010 because my brother wanted to join the RAAF,” she said.
“But I saw the amazing displays from Navy and fell in love with the challenge and opportunities it would provide.”
SBLT Randell has had postings on HMA Ships Stuart, Wollongong and Gascoyne and was looking forward to the awarding of her platform endorsement for the LHD while on deployment with Adelaide.
STANDING SEPARATELY AS ONE
CPL Sebastian Beurich
THE opportunity to combine his Indigenous heritage and military service was a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for one of Navy’s newest sailors, SMN Lynton Robbins.
SMN Robbins, who is training as an aircraft technician at RAAF Base Wagga, was selected to play the didgeridoo at the Australian War Memorial for the Anzac Day national ceremony.
“Anzac Day means the world to me,” SMN Robbins said.
“This is bigger than me, so being part of the ceremony, for both the past and future Anzacs that come through, being a middle ground for the Indigenous people, was massive.
“I feel like it’s made my career more worthy.”
Although he’s been playing the didgeridoo for 17 years, working with a tutor in the lead-up to the ceremony helped him perform at his “absolute best”.
“The last Anzac Day I participated in was in 2016, when I played for the Orange RSL,” he said.
“It absolutely gave me goose bumps when they asked me to play for that event, so coming to play for this one – the biggest ceremony in Australia – was pretty extraordinary.
“I was running and swimming to help my circular breathing, to help me play better and get a better sound quality for the people watching.”
‘I got goose bumps when they asked me to play’
They might not have been able to take part in the commemorations they are used to but our people found their own ways to honour those who have died serving our country.
Fond memories tied up in a knitted poppy
Happy to be on dawn watch at sea Not what the doctor ordered but still filled with meaning
grandfather lost his life in WWII and my grandfather served throughout the same war in the Royal Navy.”
Those family connections were a reason for CMDR Falconer joining Navy in 2006 at the age of 29.
His work has allowed him to combine his desire for service with a love of medicine.
CPOMLSO Scott Clear equipped for Anzac Day commemorations. Photo: AB Sittichai Sakonpoonpol
SBLT Samantha Randell on duty as officer of the watch on the bridge of HMAS Adelaide. Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020 11CENTRE
LEUT Jessica Craig
AFTER returning from a Middle East deployment last year, LSMPO Mardi Longford spent Anzac Day in her hometown of Eden, sharing stories with her family and local veterans.
This year, she stood at dawn outside her Sydney home, like other Australians, to commemorate the day.
Inspired as a child by ships sailing into Twofold Bay, LS Longford joined Navy in 2015 as a maritime personnel operator and has had extensive experience across the fleet, including a six-month Middle East deployment in 2019.
She said her service had made her family proud, especially her ex-fisherman dad, who used to take her out on the water at Twofold Bay.
Now based at HMAS Kuttabul in Sydney, LS Longford said her naval career had instilled a strong sense of pride and brought home the importance of acknowledging those who have served before.
This was particularly true on Anzac Day.
“I usually attend the dawn service at Bondi, which is an incredibly solemn
experience, watching the sun rising from the ocean,” LSMPO Longford said.
“Anzac Day is an important day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“I feel extremely proud on this day to wear my uniform on behalf of those who have worn it long before me.”
Whether she has been brunching and playing two-up with fellow sailors in Sydney or with family and local veterans in Eden, LS Longford said seeing the public commemorating Anzac Day had always moved her.
“It is a sign of respect, that they acknowledge and are thankful for the sacrifices that have been made in order for them to live the lives they live,” she said.
“It is important that our younger generations are educated and reminded why Anzac Day is so important.”
In addition to taking part in the #StandAtDawn initiative this Anzac Day, LS Longford also did a ‘war hero workout’, dedicated to a fallen soldier.
“It was challenging both mentally and physically but nothing compared to the sacrifice they have paid for our freedom,” she said.
LEUT Geoff Long
SMNBM Reece Conquest-Young’s most enduring Anzac Day memory is of putting on his great-grandfather’s service medals and attending the local RSL dawn service and march.
His great-grandfather, Jim Conquest, was a member of the 2/15th Field Artillery Regiment and was one of the many Australian soldiers who died as a prisoner of war working on the Thai-Burma railway.
This Anzac Day was SMN Conquest-Young’s first at sea, on HMAS Adelaide.
“We all reflected on the soldiers gone before us and the sacrifices they made for the next generations and centuries to come. Their resilience and integrity in defending our country will never be forgotten,” SMN Conquest-Young said.
“Anzac Day is a very important date for me and my fam-ily. It’s the day we remember the men and women who sac-rificed their lives so we could live ours. Like so many of his comrades, my great-grandfather has no grave.”
It was also an important week for SMN Conquest-Young, who celebrated his 21st birthday.
“From the first time being on a ship during Anzac Day to it being my birthday two days after, it was a big week for not only me but for all personnel on board Adelaide,” he said.
STANDING SEPARATELY AS ONEThey might not have been able to take part in the commemorations they are used to but our people found their own ways to honour those who have died serving our country.
Signs of respect include a workout
A first and a 21st add to a unique weekNot what the doctor ordered but still filled with meaning
grandfather lost his life in WWII and my grandfather served throughout the same war in the Royal Navy.”
Those family connections were a reason for CMDR Falconer joining Navy in 2006 at the age of 29.
His work has allowed him to combine his desire for service with a love of medicine.
SMN Lynton Robbins plays the didgeridoo at the Australian
War Memorial.Photo: CPL Sebastian Beurich
CMDR Douglas Falconer spent Anzac Day at sea in
HMAS Adelaide.Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
SMNBM Reece Conquest-Young on
board HMAS Adelaide.Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
LSMPO Mardi Longford participated in the #StandAtDawn initiative. Photo: PTE Dustin Anderson
www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020 11ANZAC DAY LIFT-OUT10 CENTRE
LEUT Geoff Long
ANZAC Day this year was different for senior medical officer CMDR Douglas Falconer, who spent it at sea in HMAS Adelaide rather than at his local RSL dawn service and the Sydney march.
Then again, he acknowledged it was different for everyone.
“It was remembered in a very different light compared to previous years, as the changes to the world meant this time of reflection had a different meaning,” CMDR Falconer said.
CMDR Falconer is the senior medical adviser for Diving Medicine, based at HMAS Penguin, and is embarked in Adelaide for his specialist skills as a general practitioner and a procedural anaesthetist.
As for many others, Anzac Day is an important day of remembrance for him and his family.
“It is not only a time to reflect on those who have given their lives for their country in the past but also to remember those former serving and currently serving and their personal sacrifices,” he said.
“It is important to my family as my great
LEUT Jessica Craig
EVERY Anzac Day since he left Hobart to join Navy in 1992, CPOML-S Scott Clear has messaged his dad, a Vietnam veteran, to thank him for his service.
He upheld that significant tradition this year but what followed was different.
Rather than marching down the streets of Sydney with his colleagues from HMAS Kuttabul, he proudly commemorated the day from his balcony, standing at dawn, wearing a hand-knitted poppy.
CPO Clear describes himself as an “army brat” who was destined to continue his family’s strong tradition of military service.
“My Great Uncle Jack Allen Clear served in WWII, was a POW in Burma and sadly died while working on the Burma railway,” CPO Clear said.
“My father, who is named after my Great Uncle Jack, served in Vietnam, namely the infamous battle of Long Tan.
“Growing up with this knowledge, I
had and continue to have respect for their service from a very young age. So Anzac Day is very special to me.”
CPO Clear has his own service history to be proud of, having helped rebuild East Timor as part of the 1999 Interfet effort and receiving a Unit Citation from his 2003 service in Iraq during the Gulf War and the international campaign against terrorism.
CPO Clear said his fondest Anzac Day memory was marching with his dad in Hobart.
The poppy CPO Clear wore this year came from another Anzac Day he held close to his heart.
“On Anzac Day in 2017, an HMAS Kanimbla reunion was held in Jingellic, a little country town on the border of NSW and Victoria,” he said.
“One of the hosts, a 97-year-old lady who had lost a large number of her family members in WWI and WWII, made hand-knitted poppies which I purchased and wore when I stood at dawn this Anzac Day.”
LEUT Geoff Long
AS THE dawn broke over the east coast of Australia on Anzac Day, maritime warfare officer SBLT Samantha Randell was on officer-of-the-watch duty on the bridge of HMAS Adelaide.
While the 24-year-old officer previously commemorated the day at a dawn service with friends and shipmates, she was happy to mark this year’s Anzac Day at sea.
“It’s a significant part of Australian history and it keeps the memory alive of all of those that made the ultimate sacrifice,” SBLT Randell said.
“It’s in these moments that we are really united as one, as we remember the fallen and look to the future.”
SBLT Randell joined Navy in 2013 as a 17-year-old but could easily have been lost to another service.
“I went to an ADFA open day in 2010 because my brother wanted to join the RAAF,” she said.
“But I saw the amazing displays from Navy and fell in love with the challenge and opportunities it would provide.”
SBLT Randell has had postings on HMA Ships Stuart, Wollongong and Gascoyne and was looking forward to the awarding of her platform endorsement for the LHD while on deployment with Adelaide.
LEUT Jessica Craig
AFTER returning from a Middle East deployment last year, LSMPO Mardi Longford spent Anzac Day in her hometown of Eden, sharing stories with her family and local veterans.
This year, she stood at dawn outside her Sydney home, like other Australians, to commemorate the day.
Inspired as a child by ships sailing into Twofold Bay, LS Longford joined Navy in 2015 as a maritime personnel operator and has had extensive experience across the fleet, including a six-month Middle East deployment in 2019.
She said her service had made her family proud, especially her ex-fisherman dad, who used to take her out on the water at Twofold Bay.
Now based at HMAS Kuttabul in Sydney, LS Longford said her naval career had instilled a strong sense of pride and brought home the importance of acknowledging those who have served before.
This was particularly true on Anzac Day.
“I usually attend the dawn service at Bondi, which is an incredibly solemn
experience, watching the sun rising from the ocean,” LSMPO Longford said.
“Anzac Day is an important day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“I feel extremely proud on this day to wear my uniform on behalf of those who have worn it long before me.”
Whether she has been brunching and playing two-up with fellow sailors in Sydney or with family and local veterans in Eden, LS Longford said seeing the public commemorating Anzac Day had always moved her.
“It is a sign of respect, that they acknowledge and are thankful for the sacrifices that have been made in order for them to live the lives they live,” she said.
“It is important that our younger generations are educated and reminded why Anzac Day is so important.”
In addition to taking part in the #StandAtDawn initiative this Anzac Day, LS Longford also did a ‘war hero workout’, dedicated to a fallen soldier.
“It was challenging both mentally and physically but nothing compared to the sacrifice they have paid for our freedom,” she said.
LEUT Geoff Long
SMNBM Reece Conquest-Young’s most enduring Anzac Day memory is of putting on his great-grandfather’s service medals and attending the local RSL dawn service and march.
His great-grandfather, Jim Conquest, was a member of the 2/15th Field Artillery Regiment and was one of the many Australian soldiers who died as a prisoner of war working on the Thai-Burma railway.
This Anzac Day was SMN Conquest-Young’s first at sea, on HMAS Adelaide.
“We all reflected on the soldiers gone before us and the sacrifices they made for the next generations and centuries to come. Their resilience and integrity in defending our country will never be forgotten,” SMN Conquest-Young said.
“Anzac Day is a very important date for me and my fam-ily. It’s the day we remember the men and women who sac-rificed their lives so we could live ours. Like so many of his comrades, my great-grandfather has no grave.”
It was also an important week for SMN Conquest-Young, who celebrated his 21st birthday.
“From the first time being on a ship during Anzac Day to it being my birthday two days after, it was a big week for not only me but for all personnel on board Adelaide,” he said.
STANDING SEPARATELY AS ONE
CPL Sebastian Beurich
THE opportunity to combine his Indigenous heritage and military service was a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for one of Navy’s newest sailors, SMN Lynton Robbins.
SMN Robbins, who is training as an aircraft technician at RAAF Base Wagga, was selected to play the didgeridoo at the Australian War Memorial for the Anzac Day national ceremony.
“Anzac Day means the world to me,” SMN Robbins said.
“This is bigger than me, so being part of the ceremony, for both the past and future Anzacs that come through, being a middle ground for the Indigenous people, was massive.
“I feel like it’s made my career more worthy.”
Although he’s been playing the didgeridoo for 17 years, working with a tutor in the lead-up to the ceremony helped him perform at his “absolute best”.
“The last Anzac Day I participated in was in 2016, when I played for the Orange RSL,” he said.
“It absolutely gave me goose bumps when they asked me to play for that event, so coming to play for this one – the biggest ceremony in Australia – was pretty extraordinary.
“I was running and swimming to help my circular breathing, to help me play better and get a better sound quality for the people watching.”
‘I got goose bumps when they asked me to play’
They might not have been able to take part in the commemorations they are used to but our people found their own ways to honour those who have died serving our country.
Fond memories tied up in a knitted poppy
Signs of respect include a workout
Happy to be on dawn watch at sea A first and a 21st add to a unique weekNot what the doctor ordered but still filled with meaning
grandfather lost his life in WWII and my grandfather served throughout the same war in the Royal Navy.”
Those family connections were a reason for CMDR Falconer joining Navy in 2006 at the age of 29.
His work has allowed him to combine his desire for service with a love of medicine.
SMN Lynton Robbins plays the didgeridoo at the
Australian War Memorial.Photo: CPL Sebastian Beurich
CPOMLSO Scott Clear equipped for Anzac Day commemorations. Photo: AB Sittichai Sakonpoonpol
SBLT Samantha Randell on duty as officer of the watch on the bridge of HMAS Adelaide. Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
CMDR Douglas Falconer spent Anzac Day at sea in
HMAS Adelaide.Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
SMNBM Reece Conquest-Young on
board HMAS Adelaide.Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill
LSMPO Mardi Longford participated in the #StandAtDawn initiative. Photo: PTE Dustin Anderson
SGT Max Bree
A FEW years ago, WO-N Deb Butterworth’s grandmother, the widow of a Rat of Tobruk, travelled from Melbourne to Sydney for Anzac Day.
“She watched the march and yelled at me as I went down the street. I went back and met with her after but she refused to leave until the last person had marched past,” WO-N Butterworth said.
“We stood there together for hours watching the final people go through.
“She was in her 80s and that was the last time I was with her on an Anzac Day. That meant a lot to me.”
While WO-N would normally have an active ceremonial role on Anzac Day, this year WO-N Butterworth didn’t leave home.
“I met with my partner, we sat at the end of our driveway and we had some quality time thinking about those who’ve served before us, those who serve now and those who are away from their loved ones,” she said.
“With the social distancing and uncertain times, it was a very different day.
“When there’s uncertainty, taking time to stop and reflect allows you to have inner resilience to turn around and move forward in uncertain times. Anzac Day was a real opportunity to do that.”
WO-N Butterworth said the lack of public Anzac Day services this year was for the greater good.
“While this is a difficult time, we did it for the safety of all Australian citizens,” she said.
The approach to this year’s Anzac Day was to “stay at home but stay connected. Pick up the phone, give someone a ring, make sure your friends are OK”.
It was important the “Anzac tradition of looking after your mates” came to the fore even if those mates couldn’t go and see each other.
Memories and mates
A catalfalque closer to homeCPL Veronica O’Hara and SGT Max Bree
AB AMY-LEE d’Hotman de Villiers was to form part of the Anzac Day catafalque party at Gallipoli this year.
While she didn’t get to see the birthplace of the Anzac legend, she was in a catafalque party around the tomb of the unknown soldier at the Australian War Memorial.
“This is still really an achievement because there were only six of us chosen,” AB d’Hotman de Villiers said.
“Gallipoli would have been amazing but I still got the same kind of feeling.
“I was still proud to be doing it here.”In the days leading up to the service,
AB d’Hotman de Villiers and other personnel from Australia’s Federation Guard rehearsed their parts in the service.
She said the aim of live-streaming the service was to help people commemorate from their homes and to feel like they were part of the ceremony.
AB d’Hotman de Villiers was born in South Africa, where her father was in the army.
“Dad would tell stories about his time serving and the friends he made and how they lived in the bush.
“I didn’t want that, it’s why I joined Navy,” she said.
Her family moved to Australia when she was seven and it was the love of the ocean she developed while living at
Aldinga Beach, South Australia, that drew her to Navy.
“I saw advertisements about being a boatswain’s mate and thought I’d give it a try,” she said.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to study or where I wanted to go, so I thought this would be a good stepping stone. It’s worked out so far; I’m in my fifth year.”
AB d’Hotman de Villiers’ father looks forward to the stories she takes home.
“A few years ago I was in HMAS Bathurst and we did a drug bust on a yacht carrying drugs from New Zealand,” she said.
“It was really cool to see the whole process. That was another reason I wanted to join, to stop illegal drug trafficking.”
AB d’Hotman de Villiers first attended council-run Anzac Day services with family after arriving in Australia and did not fully understand what they were about.
“I understand it a lot more, being in the military,” she said.
“I’m not sure if it’s me getting older and realising more, but you can tell the community think about it leading up to the day.
“Aussies embody the spirit by being there for one another.
“This is a hard time. It’s nothing like what the Anzacs went through but it’s another kind of challenge.
“Just look out for each other like the Anzacs would have in the field.”
WO-N Deb Butterworth would normally have had an active
ceremonial role on Anzac Day but had a quiet reflection at home this year.
Photo: LSIS James McDougall
AB Amy-Lee d’Hotman de
Villiers took part in a live-streamed
commemorative service at the
Australian War Memorial.
Photo: CPL Veronica O’Hara
12 ANZAC DAY LIFT-OUT www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020
13FEATURESApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
THE Navy’s Training Force proved its adaptability when 21 members joined partici-pants across the nation in a
two-day virtual training and develop-ment conference.
Director Navy Training CAPT Tony Mullan said his team leaned in to the interactive online style after the event was changed from a conference in Sydney to virtual sessions.
CAPT Mullan delivered a virtual presentation using VTC technology on the topic ‘the future of Navy training.’
“The quality of presentations and
participant interaction showed beyond doubt that this is an area of training delivery that Navy should be investing in,” CAPT Mullan said.
“I know the training force attendees gained a lot.
“This has reinforced the impor-tance of ensuring we provide profes-sional development for our staff whilst embracing change and different ways of doing business.”
The Australian Institute of Training and Development conference 2020 is a key industry engagement activity for training force, helping training sys-
tems officers remain at the forefront of learning and development industry best practice.
The conference was originally planned to be held at Sydney’s Luna Park with more than 400 attendees and international keynote speakers.
Organisers and attendees showed agility and innovation when the event quickly changed to a virtual platform.
Participants logged in to the confer-ence from homes and workplaces to take part in real-life distributed learn-ing on a large scale.
Instead of the usual conference
networking over coffee, Navy mem-bers posted comments and questions through the virtual conference plat-form.
In addition, Training Force attend-ees used ADELE to live chat about the conference presentations and implica-tions for Navy training.
LCDR Sarah Mills was impressed by how quickly the conference adjusted to accommodate participants collaborating from geographically separated environments.
“It has shown us, as training pro-fessionals and training practitioners,
how important it is for our learning methodologies to be agile in order to reach our learners in unique and engaging ways,” LCDR Mills said.
“As professionals and practition-ers, it is essential to consider how our training translates in the online envi-ronment.”
Training Force intends to further showcase its innovative learning solu-tions through submissions into the 2020 AITD Excellence Awards later this year.
Adjusting to changeNavy adapted quickly to new conditions when a training conference suddenly moved online, Andrew Cox writes.
Get into the car you love for less!
Terms and conditions apply. Visit our website smartleasing.com.au for full details.
1300 115 947 | navyleasing.com.au
Find out how you could save thousands with a novated car lease.
Navy members working from home.
*Based on the following assumptions: living in NSW 2560, salary: $70,000 gross p.a., travelling 15,000 kms p.a., lease term: 60 months, using the Employee Contribution Method for FBT purposes. Images shown may not be the exact car that the calculations have been based on. All figures quoted include budgets for finance, fuel, servicing, tyres, maintenance, Vero by Suncorp comprehensive motor insurance, Hydro Platinum Pack and re-registration over the period of the lease. Also includes, for Suzuki, Audi and BMW models only, 2 year Platinum Warranty insurance. Vehicle residual, as set by Australian Taxation Office, payable at the end of lease term. The exact residual amount will be specified in your vehicle quote. Vehicle pricing is correct at the time of distribution but may be subject to change based on availability. † Negotiated Smartleasing buying power discount on chosen vehicle may vary.
Find out how much you could save with a novated car lease.
1300 115 947 | navyleasing.com.au
Quoted prices include: Finance Rego CTP Fuel Maintenance Insurance
Request a quote on a car you love to see how much you could save!
Looking for a different car?
Kia StingerGT Fastback
$ 695* PER FORTNIGHT
INC. $235 OF RUNNING COSTS
save $2,937
on purchase price†
Mitsubishi PajeroSport Exceed 7st 2.4DT
save $7,072
on purchase price†
$ 548* PER FORTNIGHT
INC. $163 OF RUNNING COSTS
$ 480* PER FORTNIGHTINC. $177 OF RUNNING COSTS
Skoda OctaviaRS 180TSI Wagon save
$4,564
on purchase price†
Mitsubishi ASXExceed Wagon 2WD 2.0i
$ 389* PER FORTNIGHT
INC. $157 OF RUNNING COSTS
save $3,486
on purchase price†
Nissan X-Trail N Trek 2WD
$ 449* PER FORTNIGHTINC. $174 OF RUNNING COSTS
save $5,848
on purchase price†
Smartleasing ad_NAVY_2019 Drive further_Mar 2020.indd 1Smartleasing ad_NAVY_2019 Drive further_Mar 2020.indd 1 28/02/2020 3:52:54 PM28/02/2020 3:52:54 PM
02 6123 2933A part of BrandNet
Navy Shop at Military Shop 65 Kembla Street, Fyshwick, Canberra
CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE
We really love helping create unique medallions and after so many years of working with Navy organisations our
designers know just how to apply the official badges to achieve outstanding results.
SBLT Patrick Stafford
ROYAL Thai Navy Officer Theer-atiphong Pannil marked a significant milestone in his naval career with pro-motion to sub lieutenant while on an exchange program with the RAN.
SBLT Pannil is following a strong tradition of Defence cooperation between Thailand and Australia, with more than 2000 Thai military officers having attended training in Australia since 1991.
SBLT Pannil’s promotion from Midshipman was conducted by CO HMAS Choules CMDR Scott Houlihan, at a small promotion cer-emony in Choules recently.
The ceremony was conducted in accordance with all safe distancing practices.
CMDR Houlihan said SBLT Pannil’s time in Choules would allow him to grow and practise mariner skills gained during maritime warfare officer training at HMAS Watson.
“SBLT’s Pannil’s time in Australia has provided the young Officer with great and varied experiences in an exchange that has been of equal value to the RAN and the Royal Thai Navy,” CMDR Houlihan said.
The Royal Thai Navy officer has been working and training in Australia with the ADF since July 2016.
SBLT Pannil first attended New Entry Officers’ Course (NEOC) 55, graduating from the Royal Australian Naval College in December 2016.
On completion of NEOC, SBLT Pannil attended ADFA for three years while he studied a Bachelor of Science and participated in military train-ing alongside ADF midshipmen and officer cadets.
SBLT Pannil graduated from ADFA in December 2019 before returning to Australia to conduct mari-time warfare officer course training at Watson in January.
In March, SBLT Pannil joined Choules with seven other RAN mid-
15PERSONNELApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Promotion on exchange
shipmen for phase II of the maritime warfare officer course training continuum.
The group will return to Watson in June upon completion of phase II, in order to progress to phase III, where the trainees will spend time in the bridge simulator learning to navigate Armidale-class patrol boats.
On completion of phase III in December, SBLT Pannil will return to
Thailand to continue his career with the Royal Thai Navy.
Australia and Thailand have had a defence relationship for more than 70 years, which has included activities such as coalition operational deploy-ments, United Nations operations, sen-ior officer visits, exchange postings, exercises and training opportunities for individual officers in both countries.
The first Thai officer to attend an
Australian military course was GEN Saiyud Kerdphol, who completed the Australian command and staff course at Queenscliff in 1958.
Australia also hosted the cur-rent king of Thailand, His Royal Highness King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, who attended military training at RMC-Duntroon from 1972-1975.
In 2001, His Royal Highness
accepted the registration of the Thai-Australian Military Alumni Association under his royal patronage.
The ADF’s Defence Cooperation Program offers about 90 training posi-tions in Australia annually.
Imagery is available at: images.defence.gov.au/S20201450.
MIDN Theeratiphong Pannil of the Royal Thai Navy is promoted to SBLT by CO HMAS Choules CMDR Scott Houlihan at a ceremony aboard Choules, Garden Island, Sydney.
CPL Sebastian Beurich
AS A teenager, LCDR Amy Beal had a soft spot for the endangered glossy black Cockatoo from Kanga-roo Island.
Years later and now JLU-W OPSO, LCDR Beal received a task-ing for JLU-W to move Landcare ‘cockatubes’ to bushfire-affected areas to replace bird habitat.
“When I saw this come across my desk, I realised I was going to be helping a project I started working on when I was 13,” she said.
“For about three or four years, I’d go out to Kangaroo Island with anywhere between 10 and 30 other school kids and would plant Sheoak trees, which are the glossy black
cockatoo’s main feeding source.“I think a lot of people were
looking at the loss of iconic Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos during the bushfires, but not many stopped to think about the birds and reptiles we also lost.
“Looking at the affected areas on a map and remembering going into areas to plant hundreds of trees, and the huge effect the fires must have had on the local wildlife was really sad – they’re essentially back at the drawing board.
“Two decades ago, there was estimated to be 100 breeding pairs left.
“If they’ve now lost 75 per cent of their natural habitat, how many of the birds did we lose on top of that?”
The JLU-W team arranged transport, including palletisation, consignment and distribution, to JLU-SQ, -VIC and -SA for onward movement to local conservation groups.
They’ll be hung in known areas at just under 3m, where the cocka-toos should use them as nesting hol-lows, hopefully kick-starting their breeding.
“We might not have been directly affected by the fires, but for JLU-W to be helping with the distribution of something that’s going to help an endangered species nationally was a great opportunity, we had no short-age of volunteers in the unit for the task,” LCDR Beal said.
Endangered birds helpedMembers from JLU-W move cockatoo nesting tubes as part of Landcare’s efforts to replace some of the bird habitats in bushfire-affected areas.
WHILE enjoying a break from their ship by the pool of a resort, a well-earned holiday in Bali turned tragic for a young Navy
couple.A horror accident occurred when water-
loving ABBM Cooper Blackwood dived into a resort pool to cool down.
Emergency medical treatment was required to save his life.
AB Blackwood and partner AB Sarah Horn had travel insurance but never expected a situation with such gravity.
Following significant up-front costs, the couple experienced financial hardship and stress on top of the trauma from the accident.
It was magnified by news that reimburse-ment for an ambulance, a mandatory deposit to a hospital before surgery and accommoda-tion costs was going to be slow.
Through divisional staff back in Australia, the Navy’s charity Keeping Watch was approached to provide much needed interim support.
It was deemed this situation met the intent of the Keeping Watch financial grant.
AB Horn said she was appreciative of the financial assistance.
“I was instantly relieved to learn that
Keeping Watch could help no matter where you may be,” AB Horn said.
“Keeping Watch provided us with immense support and the feeling of belonging to a team, which the Navy is all about.
“Keeping Watch is a donation-only charity and the actions of Keeping Watch reinforces the saying that ‘no-one is left behind’.
“We are happy to share our story about how helpful Keeping Watch was at the time of need and how quickly we received the grant.”
CMDR Christina Ween, a trustee of the RAN Relief Trust Fund, said Keeping Watch works quickly behind the scenes to assist Navy members and families in times of emer-gency, disaster or loss.
“Keeping Watch is the vehicle for those situations that fall outside current Defence welfare support policy,” CMDR Ween said.
A Keeping Watch grant may be accessed by current serving members, including SERCAT Reserves.
AB Blackwood is recovering in the spi-nal rehabilitation unit at Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane.
Consider making a tax deductable donation to Keeping Watch and making it your ship’s charity.
Help after horror holiday
AB Cooper Blackwood with partner AB Sarah Horn in Brisbane after his accident in Bali.
AB Connor Blackwood in a hospital bed following his accident at a Bali resort.
After a life-changing holiday accident, a Navy couple received the help they needed, writes LCDR Naomi Deignan.
– AB Sarah Horn
Keeping Watch provided us with immense support and the feeling of belonging to a team, which is what the Navy is all about.
“
16 FEATURES www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS April 30, 2020
LEUT Gary McHugh
HMAS Stirling and Fleet Base West personnel may have recently noticed a number of marker posts with various coloured geometric shapes popping up around Garden Island and wondered what they are.
LSPTI Greg Smith said the mark-ers were route guides to three recently established running tracks.
“The different markers and colours specify different tracks,” LS Smith said.
“Each track is different in length; with orange being the shortest at 5.65 kilometres, green being 6.8 kilometres and the longest is blue, which is 8.8 kilometres.”
LS Smith said the three routes took runners to parts of the island, with some more challenging than others.
There are also a few hidden gems to observe along the way.
“Orange and blue start from the oval,” LS Smith said.
“Orange takes you in a loop from the east to the west side of the island with a few light hills on the way.
“On the orange track, if you look closely enough you may find a few old bunkers that were built on Garden Island during World War II.”
For adventurous runners, LS Smith suggested tackling the blue track.
“Blue is our longest run, it begins on Stirling oval, takes you through the base heading towards the accom-modation units, past the access gate on the main road then veers towards the beach,” he said.
The track also takes participants on a scenic run down to Cliff Head, which is the settlement site chosen by
Captain James Stirling in 1829.This site formed the first free
colony in Australia but was soon aban-doned when the Swan River Colony developed during the following few years.
The running routes complement the new running track that was recently installed at Stirling as part of the 3A upgrade project.
17SPORTApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Running past history
– LSPTI Greg Smith
On the orange track, if you look closely enough you may find a few old bunkers that were built on Garden Island during World War II.
“
LSPTI Greg Smith kneeling on the new running track at the HMAS Stirling sports oval.
PTIs LS Greg Smith and CPO Steven Adams stand with one of the new running trail sys-tem marker posts near Cliffs Head on Garden Island, WA.
LSPTI Greg Smith stands next to the new running trail system sign at the sports pavilion, at the HMAS Stirling sports oval.Photos: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko
No matter whereyou’re going
With life ever changing, we know how important it is smooth your budget and control your financial security.
We know how to maximise your savings while protecting your lease payments from uncertainty.
We know that everyone’s needs are different and we work with you to find the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle.
We know how to save you more on fuel, with 10 cents off every litre plus half price car washes for the life of your lease*.
No matter how much you drive, where you live or what you earn, Fleetcare can design a lease to suit your life... and save you thousands.
Save on income tax
Get 10c off every litre of fuel
Save on GST
Save thousands with exclusive fleet discounts
Call: 134 333 Visit: fleetcare.com.au/defence-force Email: getnovated@fleetcare.com.au
Check out our latest vehicle offers. There’s something for everybody. Visit fleetcare.com.au/novated-showroom
Disclaimer: *Customers must have a BP fuel card with car washes enabled. Terms and conditions for 10c offer can be found at fleetcare.com.au/terms-and-conditions-novated-10c-offer. The figures presented for the vehicle offers are correct at time of print and based on the applicant living in VIC, with an annual salary of $85,000. The weekly cost is based on a 60 month term travelling 15,000km p.a. and includes estimated running costs including finance, maintenance, tyres, registration, fuel and insurance. Vehicle images are for illustration purposes only. Figures may alter based on an individual’s circumstances and are subject to change.
NLEE-PA-AN-0420
Mazda CX-9 GT
SAVE $7,374* $428* P/W
Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium
SAVE $7,491* $208* P/W
Mercedes Benz A180
SAVE $6,392* $229* P/W
19SPORTApril 30, 2020 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Focused on her skillsLSIS Kylie Jagiello
GROWING up in Wooli, near the picturesque beachside city of Coffs Harbour, known for the Big Banana, ABBM Renee Mason could be found playing rugby league with her brother.
Playing throughout her high school years, she discovered her love for the game.
“I always enjoyed playing as hard as I could with the boys,” AB Mason said.
“I saw it as a challenge playing against them.”
AB Mason joined the ADF four years ago but due to work and training commitments, last year was her first opportunity to play with Navy.
“I participated in the Navy development camp and played in the Women’s Community Cup match against Fire and Rescue NSW,” AB Mason said.
“From this game I was lucky to be selected for the ADF team to partake in the Pacific Tour camp.
“We travelled to Fiji, Tonga and Samoa and
played against their repre-sentative sides.”
Earlier this year, AB Mason played in the Cabramatta Nine’s compe-tition with the Philippines rugby league team.
This was a nine-a-side tournament held in Cabramatta comprising 26 mens teams and six wom-ens teams.
“With my Fillipino background, it was great to play with girls of the same heritage,” AB Mason said.
“We bonded over the sport, but also our families.
“Just like the Navy, the Philippines are also try-ing to grow their female rugby league team and this was their debut in the Cabramatta Nines.”
The ADF female rugby league teams started in 2016 and are seeking additional players.
Once sporting restric-tions are lifted, AB Mason’s focus will be on developing her knowl-edge and skill of the game, through continuing engagement with the ADF women’s rugby league team.
AB Renee Mason looks to pass the ball to a teammate for a hit-up during an exhibition match against a NSW Fire and Rescue team, at North Sydney Oval, in 2019.Photo: LAC John Solomon
1300 738 601www.fleetnetwork.com.au/defence
ASK US ABOUTTHIS MONTH’S
SPECIALOFFER#
Get a free quote today!
Package a new car and save on taxDid you know that leasing your next car could save you thousands?Let the experts at Fleet Network take the hassle out of car buying – we’ll source your car, pass on national fleet discounts and package all your running costs, while you save on tax. We’ll even sell your trade-in for you, to make sure the changeover is seamless.
It’s worth a call – it’s your salary after all.
Your own dedicated Novated Leasing
specialist
Save with exclusive National
Fleet Discounts
We’ll sell your
Trade-in for you
Save GST on your vehicle’s running costs^
Your Package includes
Finance, Fuel, Insurance, Servicing, Tyres &
Registration
#To qualify for this offer, mention this ad to Fleet Network prior to the completion of your initial contract. Vehicle must be supplied by Fleet Network. Not valid with any other offers. Employees should consult their employer’s salary packaging policy before entering into a contract. ^Subject to Employer policy. Image courtesy of Department of Defence.
Recommended