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Volume 51, No. 22, November 27, 2008

SAYING GOODBYE: LCDR John Quinn (Rtd) looks out over the Indian Ocean sunset on the flight deck of HMAS Manoora while in transit to the HMAS Sydney II site. LCDR Quinn was the CO of HMAS Jarapet during the Vietnam War and lost his father, PO George Quinn, on HMAS Sydney II. Photo: ABPH Andrew Dakin

FLEET’S FAMILY FOCUS NAVY KEEPS FAMILIES AND THE NATION SAFE THIS CHRISTMAS

HONOURING SYDNEY II FULL COVERAGE P2-3

By LEUT Kate Matthews SAILORS of the fleet and their families can look forward to a longer Christmas break this summer. In keeping with CN’s recently launched ‘New Generation Navy’ program, Commander Australian Fleet, RADM Nigel Coates, has announced that, where possible, families can look forward to a two month operations Stand Down Period (SDP) where personnel can take leave and be with families over the 2008/09 Christmas/New Year period. “Navy has a responsibility both to our country and our people,” said RADM Coates. “Operational requirements of any kind will still be met during this period and Australia’s national security remains our number one priority. But that doesn’t mean our people can’t enjoy some time off. We must work smarter not harder and find ways to give our people more time with their families.” The Fleet SDP is likely to become a permanent feature of the Fleet Activity Schedule, providing similar respite in future years. The good news doesn’t end there! During the operational SDP, which this year will fall from December 3, 2008, through February 3, 2009, personnel will be required to keep fewer duties with the implementation of a Minimum Duty Watch (MDW) initiative. The initiative aims to reduce the homeport Duty Watch numbers within Fleet Command units to an absolute minimum during the 2008/09 SDP, and to seek further permanent reductions on an ongoing basis. “The outcomes from the MDW initiative will be permanent and the program has been introduced in direct response to feedback from our people. In keeping with CN’s intent, I am passionate about cultural change and a greater focus on work-life balance; we will make the changes necessary to ensure we have the people we need to do our job,” said RADM Coates. The extended SDP won’t apply to everyone. Far from shutting down completely, Navy ships will continue to undertake border protection duties as part of Operation Resolute during the period. 500 Navy personnel will remain on active duty over the Christmas period.

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NEWS

A final farewell By LCDR Peter Rekers, SBLT Ami Hansen and SBLT Michael Casey FOR the first time since the tragic loss of HMAS Sydney II 67 years ago, a memorial service has been conducted at sea onboard HMAS Manoora (CMDR Paul Mandziy) and HMAS Sydney IV (CAPT Braddon Wheeler) over the site of the sinking. The service on November 19 saw Manoora embark 284 family members and relatives from Geraldton, WA, for a cruise to the final resting place of Sydney II, which was found on March 16 this year. The service, officiated by Senior Chaplain Barrie Yesberg, was conducted with HMAS Sydney IV stationed as the backdrop in a moving tribute to Sydney II and a powerful reminder of the modern Navy. For many family members it was their first time at sea and the opportunity to be at the place where such personal loss took place was a powerful and moving experience. Manoora provided a Sub-Lieutenant’s Guard to formally honour the men who gallantly lost their lives defending the country against the German raider HSK Kormoran on an unsuspecting battle front when World War II approached the West Australian coast threatening ports and shipping. LEUT Kelly Thompson of Manoora gave a speech setting the historical scene for the ceremony. “One can readily read of Sydney’s triumphs in the Mediterranean, of her many lucky escapes, her compassion to vanquished foes and of her last desperate action,” she said. “However, these attributes of bravery, resilience, comradeship and compassion are not those of a ship, which of course

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LEFT: Invited guests onboard HMAS Manoora pay tribute to those lost over the site of HMAS Sydney II . BELOW LEFT: Denise Harris, who never met her father (ABSM Dennis Paling who was lost on HMAS Sydney II) stands over the site of the sinking. Photos: ABPH Andrew Dakin BELOW RIGHT: CO HMAS Sydney IV, CAPT Braddon Wheeler, lays a wreath in memory of those lost. BOTTOM: The crew of HMAS Sydney IV pay respect to Sydney II. Photos: ABPH Morgana Salabert

REFLECTION: Guests gather on the flight deck of HMAS Manoora at sunrise. Photo: ABPH Andrew Dakin

All hands on deck By LCDR Antony Underwood

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is forged from steel; they are the human attributes of her crew.” Fleet Commander RADM Nigel Coates was embarked in Manoora and enjoyed the opportunity to hear some of the many stories the families had of their loved ones. During the ceremony he presented a floral tribute to the lost souls of Sydney II. “News of Sydney II’s disappearance stunned and fascinated a nation,” he said. “But for every man lost, a wife, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter was left to mourn. For them, the memories of those men lost that day will never fade. The memories you may be reliving today will perhaps cause you further sadness, but we hope they will also bring you some comfort.” The guests each laid a floral tribute to say goodbye to their own family member onboard Sydney II, to the tune of Amazing Grace performed on the bagpipes. After all respects were paid, Sydney IV conducted a high speed pass over the exact site of Sydney II and disappeared over the horizon towards Perth. Manoora then departed the site of the battle with the family members being given a final chance to say ‘goodbye’ before heading back to Geraldton. For the families, the chance to be at the site, say a final farewell while meeting sailors of today’s Navy was more than appreciated. John Quinn, a retired sea captain of 45 years who lost his father in Sydney II when he was a 13-year old seaman, said the real meaning of the brotherhood of the sea came to the fore. “It’s special and should always be so,” he said.

ALL hands on deck – a new regular column in Navy News – will chart the progress of New Generation Navy (NGN) – a three pronged program involving leadership and values, structural reform and cultural reform. The NGN program was outlined by the Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane, AM, CSM, RAN, in his State of the Navy address on October 31. Director General of the new Navy Transformation and Innovation Branch, CDRE Richard Menhinick, said NGN is the CN’s highest priority. “It’s urgent,” he said. “It involves an enhanced leadership and values program that will be developed to provide the basis for making the necessary structural and cultural change throughout Navy. “Our focus is on making sure we are ready for the new platforms of 2014 and making sure we are appropriately prepared to contribute to operations. That means a people focus above all else. My new branch is working to the CN and DCN, RADM Davyd Thomas, on this. “What we’re looking at is top-down change on things that Navy controls and

at leading change rather than managing changes. The ethos of leading change is ‘quite different’. We have an immediate sense of urgency to achieve that – that’s the key issue.” One of the biggest issues is people. “The CN pointed out, in his video, the huge numbers of people we’ve got in the training pipeline and our need to sort out our training and structural issues.” CDRE Menhinick is currently assembling his team. Included so far are: CMDR Jenni Wittwer, CMDR Rod Robinson (Sydney-based and experienced in coaching and mentoring); CMDR Lee Goddard (most recently CO HMAS Parramatta) and LEUT Richard Adams (experienced in the leadership and training continuum). “We’ll be going out very quickly, within the next few days, to get some further independent support” he said. CDRE Menhinick said the program will be underway straight after the Christmas break. “The program will be organised prior to Christmas and will swing into action straight after the Christmas break,” he said. “I will be reporting to CN in mid-

March on our initial findings and recommendations so we will be working very heavily from early January onwards. “So we’re not about sitting back contemplating our navels and thinking about things. We’re actually about leading some decisive change, such is the urgency of the problem.” Apart from ‘embedding’ members of the Transformation and Innovation team with the independent experts, CDRE Menhinick said there was a need to “embed the fundamental insight that major change doesn’t happen easily”. “There are structural and category alignment issues and promotional issues that demand attention. These have frustrated many people over the years. These are internal Navy issues and we need to be flexible and adaptive. “So we’re looking at simplifying the structures…but a lot of this will come out from our actual studies. I wouldn’t want to pre-empt anything too soon.” CDRE Menhinick described complacency and change fatigue as “the biggest enemies” to New Generation Navy. “This is why we’ve got an emphasis on this strategic, top-down method – and there are a number of sources of

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complacency that we’re conscious of… human nature and the ‘kill the messenger’ approach. “One key point is to re-emphasise that, whether officer or sailor, all members of the Navy are ‘Australian Sailors’. Navy’s people are the core of its capability, and are its heart and soul. Making sure that Navy thinks like this and harnesses their belief, support and emotional ownership is what NGN is all about. This includes bringing Navy back into the Australian psyche. “So we need to address all these issues together and force honest discussion even though this will probably upset some people, but we’ve got to drive it through anyhow.” Striving to make Navy “an employer of choice” in Australia meant the Service needed to be as flexible as possible and have a true understanding of its people. “We are going to have good look at any internal structures that are making it more difficult than it needs to be,” CDRE Menhinick said. “Acknowledging that service at sea and service in the country’s defence is a special service.” November 27, 2008

03

NEWS

to Sydney II PAYING RESPECT: Family members of a sailor from HMAS Sydney II place a poppy on the wall of remembrance at the HMAS Sydney Memorial in Geraldton. Photo: ABPH Jo Dilorenzo

Bereavement Pin an honour THE Navy has commissioned a Bereavement Pin to recognise the valued contribution of Navy personnel who have lost their lives while in the service of the RAN and the nation.

Family members are now able to have a tangible, yet discrete memento of the service of their loved one. Visit www.navy.gov. au/Navy_Bereavement_Pin or call (02) 6266 2285.

Australia remembers PRIDE OF THE FLEET: HMAS Sydney II is honoured at a service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Photo: CPL Ricky Fuller

By LCDR Fenn Kemp

A fitting tribute in Geraldton By LEUT Ben Willee and Gary Booth

remains of the unknown sailor found on Christmas Island. But regardless of identity, the sailor will forever hold a symbolic place in Australian naval history. Principal Chaplain Garry Lock said he was honoured to be involved in such an important service.

HUNDREDS of families, friends and crew attended the memorial and burial service for the ‘Unknown Sailor’ in Geraldton on November 19 to mark the 67th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Sydney II on November 19, 1941. The service was also attended by It has been 67 years Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon, since HMAS Sydney II Chief of Navy VADM Russ Crane AM, CSM, RAN, Defence Science was lost off Western and Personnel Minister Warren Australia with its Snowdon and Opposition Leader entire crew, following Malcolm Turnbull. a fierce engagement Mr Fitzgibbon said the sailors who perished with HMAS Sydney with the German raider II served their country with distinc- HSK Kormoran. It was tion. Australia’s greatest “Their loss is still felt today,” he maritime loss with the said. “I feel both humbled and privi- death of 645 men. leged to stand here today with the families of those brave men who After the service, the coffin of the paid the ultimate price in defence of unknown sailor was then moved our nation.” to Geraldton Cemetery for a burial DNA testing is yet to identify the ceremony.

PRIME Minister Kevin Rudd presided over a sombre ceremony honouring HMAS Sydney II at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on November 19. Mr Rudd told the gathering the loss of Sydney II should encourage Australians to work towards a peaceful future. His message was heard by a crowd of about 400 people. Some family members sat through the

Mrs Mavis Clarke had a brother, AB Earnest Booth, who went down with the ship. “It was a long journey from Victoria to pay our respects to the unknown sailor and the crew who perished,” she said. “ I was very moved by the service and very grateful to the Navy for the service and the Bereavement Pin, which I will now cherish.” The annual sunset commemorative service was also held in Geraldton on November 19, with family members of the crew of HMAS Sydney II joining a long list of dignitaries headed by the Governor-General Ms Quentin Bryce. The crowd was also treated to a fly past by four RAAF PC 9s from No 2 Flying Training School at RAAF Base Pearce. As a final tribute, a red flare was released in the harbour as the sun set.

service clutching photos of their loved ones, others chose to lay a wreath in their honour at the Dias, once the service had ended. Following the ceremony, Mr Rudd, Deputy Chief of Navy RADM Davyd Thomas and Commander, Australian Naval Systems Command RADM Steve Gilmore joined family members for a presentation of the new Navy Bereavement Pin.

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November 27, 2008

04

Career flexibility New primary qualification for Navy’s middle managers announced By Steve Ridgway

EXCITING career opportunities for Navy’s middle managers are available through the Management Executive Primary Qualification (MXPQ). The MXPQ, which was an outcome of SEACHANGE, offers lieutenant commanders, warrant officers and chief petty officers who are seeking commissions, an opportunity to look forward to a new career option with a broad range of career prospects. “The MXPQ will provide flexibility in career management, helping retain people with valuable skills so every step is being taken to get it right from the start!” said Deputy Chief of Navy, RADM Davyd Thomas. CMDR Jo Bastian, the Project Officer behind the implementation, aims to have the MXPQ in place by late 2009.

“At the moment the Navy lacks appropriately trained, educated and experienced personnel in a wide range of positions, including intelligence, communications, systems acquisition, sustainment and people management functions,” she said. “Many people placed into these positions right now aren’t necessarily getting the best training and support and we need to change this. “At the same time, many experienced people, mostly at lieutenant commander level, are leaving the Navy because they feel there are no further career development options.” The project aims to fill positions with experienced people who will be properly trained and supported.

by capability and, therefore, not everyone will be eligible. However, for those who are, the MXPQ will create a whole new career path. “It will turn experienced lieutenant commanders into corporate managers and potentially offer another 15 to 20 years in uniform,” said CMDR Bastian. Navy hopes this career path with appropriate remuneration points will attract motivated people who want to keep contributing. It will be good for them and good for the Navy. Navy is still at the beginning of this process and, as such, is still looking for people’s perceptions and opinions. “We need people’s input, the aim is to develop a best-practice model to attract and retain people for a rewarding career,” CMDR Bastian “The time-frame is aspirational said. because it’s critical to get it right,” Readers can forward input to the team said CMDR Bastian. The MXPQ is driven primarily at [email protected]

NEWS CN goes public with New Generation Navy message By LCDR Fenn Kemp CHIEF of Navy VADM Russ Crane AM, CSM, RAN has reached out to the Australian media in his campaign to change Navy’s culture. VADM Crane has featured in a full page article in the Sun Herald newspaper, with the aim of raising Navy’s profile in the broader community. In the feature, VADM Crane opened up about himself, his past and his goals for the future. The former junior sailor told the Sun Herald he was proud of his beginnings, admitting he would get back to sea in a heartbeat. But CN was quick to point out he had more pressing matters to attend to, with his New Generation Navy (NGN) concept now beginning to pick up steam. CN told the paper that the program he has put in place was very much formed on his experiences as a junior sailor. NGN is focused on people. “We have a unique opportunity coming up,” CN told the interviewer, “With new air warfare destroyers, new amphibious ships, there is an opportunity for transition to a new generation.” Back at CN’s office, preliminary

SPREADING THE WORD: SMN Nathan White reads an article in the Sun Herald about Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane AM, CSM, RAN. NGN planning meetings have already been held to plot the way forward. CN’s decision to release his NGN message on the intranet and on DVD has proved to be extraordinarily successful, with thousands responding to the call to click on the NGN video link. The New Generation Navy Plan calls for changes in leadership and values, Navy culture and structural reform. The aim is for Navy to work smarter, not harder and to relieve the strain being placed on Navy personnel.

New WO-N ready to make his mark

NEXT UP: WO Mark Tandy will take up the position of WO-N on December 19. Photo: LSPH Yuri Ramsey By LCDR Antony Underwood

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WOCIS Mark Tandy is looking forward to his new role as the most senior sailor in the RAN. He will take over from the serving Warrant Officer of the Navy, WO James Levay, on December 19. WO Tandy describes the feeling of being WO-N-designate as “fantastic”. “It’s a great honour and privilege and I am really looking forward to working with the Chief of Navy on any issue he wants me to address,” he said. Born in WA and educated in Tennant Creek and Darwin, WO Tandy joined the Navy as a radio operator in 1982. He’s served as a communications operator/supervisor in a wide range of establishments and ships. Shore postings have included HMA Ships Albatross, Coonawarra, Harman and Cerberus and Recruiting in Townsville. Sea postings have included HMA Ships Jervis Bay, Canberra, Cessnock, Warrnambool, Dubbo, Success and a short time in Vampire. In his current rank, WO Tandy has been OPSO at the Naval Communications Area Master Station Australia during the

second Gulf War; instructed at the Naval College on the Chiefs’ Leadership and Development Program; enjoyed a fourmonth exchange on Exercise LongLook; and completed the single-Service component of the Command and Staff course at Weston Creek and completed his research paper for a Masters in Maritime Studies. He has also been OIC of the submarine and seaman categories cell in the Directorate of Sailors’ Career Management. WO Tandy says his appointment as 6th Warrant Officer of the Navy – normally for two years with the option of a third year – will be his third posting to Canberra in his 26 years with the Navy. “It’s likely to mean quite a lot of travel,” he said, “but I’m really looking forward to getting out and selling CN’s vision and future direction to the workforce. “The job is really twofold – as well as being an advocate for senior command to sailors, I’m also looking to provide feedback to CN and senior management in the form of solicited and unsolicited views of sailors.”

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November 27, 2008

05

NEWS

New sailor pay deal

SAILORS are set to benefit with a new Graded Other Ranks Pay Structure (GORPS) signed off by the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal (DFRT) on November 7. This included agreement to a number of revised category and skill grade placements for ET, MT, AT, CIS, CT, CSO, CSO MW, BM, Reserve DVR, NPC, PTI and some SM categories. It also recognises important qualifications achieved by some Navy sailors, including navigation competencies (BM, NPC, CSO MW, HSO), AIC (CSO), FSMS (AT), FCO (ET) and STO (MT). Chief of Navy VADM Russ Crane, AM, CSM, RAN, said GORPS represented a significant milestone for pay reform and, most importantly, for sailors. “It is the first time Navy has considered all categories together since 1995, and this has ensured that the relationships between categories and the other Services have been closely examined,” he said. The DFRT decision is the culmination of the Defence Remuneration Reform project that has been running for several years. Under the new arrangements there will be 10 pay grades instead of 16 and the differentials between pay grades and some ranks are being increased. Over 10 years it means $2.4 billion in extra pay, which in turn will boost superannuation benefits. “GORPS will give the Navy a recalibrated sailor’s pay system more in line with conditions outside the ADF,” said CAPT Mark Hill, Acting Director General Navy Personnel and Training. “It will also improve the dollar amounts between pay grades. It means more pay for individuals with experience, or who have supervisory responsibilities, or who push on to develop their own technical expertise.

“Some categories had not been reviewed for decades, so the GORPS process has been a great opportunity to take account of issues like contribution to capability, increasing sophistication of technology and work processes, increased governance and accountability – along with wage pressures from the wider national and global labour markets.” The pay details of all individual sailors will now need to be transferred to the new 10-Grade structure. It will be a phased implementation over seven months, but no-one will lose out because all pay changes will be backdated to September 4 this year. GORPS has also moved the Warrant Officer structure from eight grades to 10, and this will better facilitate logical progression from CPO to WO. Trainee pay for officers and sailors has also been updated as part of GORPS. It now takes account of progression from initial entry training to category and PQ courses, particularly for category courses longer than six and 12 months duration. A new trainee allowance of $8,000 pa will also take effect from January 8, 2009. The GORPS determination will also include Airmen Aircrew after their case was approved at a hearing by the Tribunal on November 18-19. The Tribunal agreed to back-date these placements to September 4, 2008, to align with the rest of GORPS. GORPS pay grades will also apply to Reserves. The GORPS transition is separate from the ADF WRA pay rise of 2.8%, which will take place in February 2009.

Working hard to secure childcare THE Defence Community Organisation (DCO) is working closely with the receiver of ABC Learning Centres and the Government to secure the continuity of childcare services. Defence Science and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon has already written to families saying the Government was doing everything possible to ensure the ongoing provision of high-quality care for Defence families. Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced up to $22m to ensure that all ABC childcare centres remain open until December 31, providing some immediate stability. Maureen Greet, DCO’s childcare program manager, said mobility was the principle driver for the facilitation of Defence childcare and that Defence families needed to access some form of childcare on arrival in a new locality. “DCO is encouraging members to support the Defence childcare centres to ensure that they do remain viable and open,” she said.

“We are asking affected families, including those starting the new year in a new location, to register their email contact details while they are on holidays or in transit, so they can receive the latest updates.” In addition, Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane AM, CSM, RAN has instructed all commanding officers to show compassion to Navy families hit by the recent ABC childcare crisis. “I ask that local commanders be

WORKING HARD: DCO is working closely with the receiver of ABC to secure continuity of childcare services.

understanding of this stressful situation as the new working year approaches,” he said. “I want local commanders to make every effort to negotiate flexible working arrangements that allow families to manage their commitments at home and at work until the situation is resolved.” CN encouraged all Navy members affected to speak to their supervisors and establish contingency plans for the new year. To receive email updates, send the following information to defence. [email protected] ➤ Name ➤ Email Address ➤ Childcare Centre used ➤ Employment status (ADF/APS/ Community) Other sources for updates are: ➤ Government website www.mychild. gov.au and the DCO website for Defence families www.defence.gov.au/ dco or the hotline on 1802003

Check out http://intranet.defence.gov.au/ navyweb/sites/NavyGORPS/ or call (02) 6265 3149.

Don’t fall into a debt trap this Christmas

With Christmas only weeks away, many stores are advertising Christmas and end of year specials, so it’s a good time to highlight the dangers of taking out “no-interest, norepayments” store credit. Although this sounds easy and convenient, all too often people are not able to pay for their purchase once the interestfree period expires and end up paying interest of to 25%pa^, backdated to the original date of purchase. On the other hand the Australian Defence Credit Card offers a low introductory rate of 8.5%pa* for the first six months, and up to 55 days interest free, so you’ll still be able to buy the item that you’ve always wanted, without falling into a potential debt trap.

The other major benefit of our Visa credit card is that you can transfer your balances from other credit and store cards and pay only 8.5%pa*, not only on the balances you transfer but also on any transactions you make during the six month period. This can save you a significant amount of money; and if you do this before you go Christmas shopping, you’ll have even more to spend! So don’t fall into a debt trap this Christmas, apply for an Australian Defence Credit Card today! For more information or to apply for Australian Defence Credit Card call 1300 13 23 28, visit our website www. adcu.com.au, or drop into your local ADCU branch.

*Introductory rate effective 20.11.08 fixed for 6 months, then at our standard Credit Card interest rate, currently 13.05% p.a. (subject to change without notice: see www.adcu.com.au for details). Fees and charges, terms and conditions apply and are available on application. ^ Source: Infochocie 17.11.2008

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November 27, 2008

06

NEWS

Chopper flight history a good read out for them. When you are intimately associated with a subject how do you A Bloody Job Well Done edit the input of over 40 different con$24.95 at Fleet Air Arm Museum tributors? THE fact that the RAN had a heliMax Speedy and Bob Ray have copter flight fighting in Vietnam from pulled it off and done it magnificently. 1967 till 1971 remains a mystery to They have married up the style of most Australians. The RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam their contributors with their own great knowledge and used the database is lovingly detailed by the contributors of the War Memorial, the Sea Power and editors. The book is large format and the editors have had their work cut Centre and the National Archives. By Hugh McKenzie

The editors make no apology for the language of the book; it is not politically correct as editor Bob Ray said, “It is an almost unique chapter in Australian Naval History,” he said. “Fewer than 200 sailors of the FAA served ashore flying with the United States Army in the conflict. We have captured their story accurately and so a reliable account is now available.”

Navy safety top priority By PO Todd Melrose CHIEF of Navy VADM Russ Crane AM, CSM, RAN was on hand to present winners with their trophies at the Navy Safety Awards during a ceremony in Canberra on November 6. The Navy Safety Awards were introduced in 2004 to recognise and reward personnel and organisations that make a conspicuous and positive contribution to Navy safety. The awards are also a

gateway for submission to the Defence Safety Awards and the Australian Commonwealth Safety Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission awards. During his opening remarks CN launched Navy’s new safety policy and stressed that he expected Navy safety culture to become “Can Do-Safely”. He emphasised that he takes safety very seriously and expects all Navy personnel to be similarly committed.

And the winners are... CATEGORY ONE: Leadership Award for Injury Prevention and Management Winner – HMAS Arunta Highly commended – HMAS Manoora CATEGORY TWO: Best Workplace Health and Safety Management System Winner – HMAS Newcastle

Highly commended – PO Scott Norbury of HMAS Kuttabul Highly commended – LCDR Greg Ryan of HMAS Manoora The following were also commended and received a framed certificate for presentation locally:

Commended – CPO Richard Marek of SCFEG CATEGORY THREE: Best Solution Commended – CPO Thomas Costello of to an Identified Workplace HMAS Stirling Health and Safety Issue Commended – PO Daniel Hanton of FSU Winner – FSU Perth Perth Highly commended – HMAS Manoora Commended – CPO Steven Mullin of HMAS Cerberus THE COMMANDER DAVE ALLEN Commended – LS Jon Schluter of HMAS AWARD FOR SAFETY EXCELLENCE Arunta Winner – Mr Russell Power of HMAS Commended – LCDR Christopher Gudgin of HMAS Manoora Cairns

Pink ribbon brekkie A PINK Ribbon breakfast was held at HMAS Cerberus on October 26 to increase breast cancer awareness and raise money for research – $30,000 to be precise. Coordinated by Anna Kelly, the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s annual pink ribbon fundraiser in the area, 250 guests ate a distinctly pink breakfast that included pink sparkling wine. Guests also took part in an auction, bidding for holidays, appliances and art. (Pictured) The prosecutor and counsel, CPONPC Joanne Monaghan and the Command Legal Officer LCDR Gary Barrow both suitably wore pink to the breakfast.

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NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

07

NEWS

Navy joins Facebook “More than just a craze” By LEUT Kate Matthews and LCDR Fenn Kemp

THE Royal Australian Navy has joined Facebook! Deputy Chief of Navy, RADM Davyd Thomas, said it was about time Navy caught up with an increasingly popular activity. “This is a perfect communication vehicle to get our message out to the millions of internet users who don’t know about our fantastic people and the work they do all over the world,” he said. “This gives us the opportunity to brand our organisation and promote our activities.” Apart from providing a wide variety of information on the RAN, the Facebook

site also hosts a growing range of Navy videos. The response so far from the growing number of “friends” has been positive. But DCN wants more – thousands more – and is urging all members of the RAN to log on and join up. “This is more than just a craze. Facebook is here to stay and Navy has to embrace the future. There is a lot of mis-information out there – it’s up to us to provide an accurate account of what is happening in the Navy. “This is a simple way for us to contribute to recruiting new people. We need our people on the site talking to potential recruits. Nobody can sell our organisation like our own people and this is a fun way for everyone to do their bit.”

KEEPING UP:ABSN Damien Hansen monitors Navy’s Facebook site.

JOC gets new home THE new Joint Operations Command Headquarters complex has been completed on time and on budget. The Bungendore facility was formally handed over to JOC by the Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, Dr Mike Kelly, on November 14. Also present were senior members of the Praeco consortium and Thales, which delivered and fitted out the facility. Dr Kelly said the completed facility was an effective, worldclass platform for the command and control of Australian forces within Australia and around the world. He said environmental issues like road access were being improved by a $23.3 million Federal program and the complex had also been landscaped to have zero impact on local water resources — it will be capturing rainfall and storing it in on-site water tanks and dams. The visual impact of the building was also minimised by constructing it on lower ground, virtually out of sight from the main road. But the real wizardry is now inside, according to Brigadier Wayne Budd, Director General of the HQJOC project. “In the early days I called this a farm shed in a sheep paddock. Now I’ve got to say it’s the most hi-tech farm shed anyone could envision,” he said.

“The handover is a big milestone for Defence, which now has a truly joint headquarters in one location.” CDRE Peter Leschen, Director General of the Command and Control Implementation Team, said JOC had been reorganised two years ago for this moment. “We have been working in transitional facilities since that time — split between Sydney and Canberra,” he said. “Now operations involving air,

sea and ground forces, special operations, submarine operations – and even space – will all be run from the same location. It will have a huge impact on command and control.” Two weeks of user testing follows the handover. Around Australia, some 600 ADF members are on the move to the new facility, and the early arrivals are already in position. In parallel, Defence housing is being developed in the Canberra/Queanbeyan region.

ON TIME, ON BUDGET: Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, Dr Mike Kelly; DG HQJOC Project, BRIG Wayne Budd; DG Command and Control Implementation Team, CDRE Peter Leschen; General Manager Praeco Pty Ltd, Peter Hicks; and Vice President Thales Australia, Pierre Maciejowski, celebrate the formal handover. Photo: Bryan Doherty

FSU on target with WWI gun By Michael Brooke WHEN the people of Gulgong unveiled a WWI German mine-thrower on November 11 to commemorate Armistice Day in 1918 their thoughts turned to the soldiers who captured it in battle and the sailors from HMAS Kuttabul who refurbished it. Sailors from FSU-Sydney painstakingly refurbished the 76mm ‘minenwerfer’ as part of the Navy community engagement program while completing some important competency log requirements in the process. Six sailors from FSU-Sydney also attended the Armistice Day ceremony at Gulgong RSL, where almost the entire community turned out to pay their respects to fallen heroes and to see the unveiling of the minenwerfer. WO Harry White said 15 sailors from FSU-Sydney put more than 800 hours into the refurbishment project. The project involved FSU sailors disassembling the mine-thrower, unseizing the working parts, and building some new parts from scratch with only a WWIera picture to ensure authenticity.

But the sailors at FSU left nothing to chance and experts at the Australian War Memorial were consulted to ensure the mine-thrower was painted the correct shade of ‘German field grey.’ The RAN’s role refurbishing the mine-thrower for the Gulgong community has been inscribed on a brass plaque that was attached to the base plate for all to read. AB Amber Rhoomes had the difficult job of engraving the brass plaque as well as the gun’s range and elevation plates – a task that required assistance from a German translator. WO White said refurbishing the gun allowed FSU personnel to not only advance their comp logs but learn something about Australia’s meaningful contribution to WWI, which marked our baptism of fire as a nation. The gun was manufactured in Germany in 1917, captured by the Australian soldiers of the 45th Battalion in 1918, and gifted to the townspeople of Gulgong, in rural NSW, in 1921. ABMT Rob Brown and SMNBM Trent Sharp said refurbishing the minethrower was the most unusual yet stimulating job they had done this year.

“If you want to meet the challenges of security science in today’s world, there’s nowhere else to go.” “It’s been a while since I’ve studied, but all trepidation was erased by the excellent support offered by ECU staff. That support allowed me to focus on my studies. The course is an excellent foundation for those aspiring to excellence in the security field. It prepares the individual, opening the mind to the myriad of further studies and professional development required to meet the challenges of professional security management in this new millennium’s security environment.” – ECU Bachelor of Security Science graduate, Raymond Andersson Reach your potential. Call 134 ECU (134 328), email [email protected] or visit security.ecu.edu.au for info on courses including Counter Terrorism, Security Science and Security Management. RESTORATION: POMT Stephen Fisher, SMNBM Trent Sharp, SBMT Michael Dawson, LSMT Michael Penhall, ABET Amber Roomes and ABMT Robert Brown with the 76mm ‘minenwerfer’. Photo: ABPH David McMahon NAVY NEWS

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www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

08

NEWS

Harman’s proud day

HMAS Harman’s ship’s company exercised their right of Freedom of Entry (FOE) into Queanbeyan, NSW, on November 15 with a display of tradition and ceremony, marching with swords drawn and colours flying. In a colourful addition to the Queanbeyan Show, the FOE platoons marched into the Queanbeyan showgrounds where the NSW Police Local Area Commander, Superintendent Gary Merryweather, conducted the challenge. Upon proving their right for FOE, the platoons were inspected by the Mayor of Queanbeyan, Tim Overall, with CDRE David Letts conducting the review. Harman CO, CMDR Bruce Shearman, said FOE rights were last exercised in 2002.

“Through today’s FOE march, HMAS Harman is seeking to reaffirm its longstanding association with Queanbeyan and celebrate its 65-year history of active participation and engagement with the local community,” he said. “Navy personnel in HMAS Harman are very aware of the historical significance and privilege of a town bestowing FOE to a military force,” he said. FOE is the highest honour that a city can grant to the RAN. O ve r 1 8 0 p e r s o n n e l f r o m t h e Harman Command and Canberra lodger units, the RAN Band, the Navy contingent of Australia’s Federation Guard and Australian Navy Cadets from TS Canberra made up the FOE platoons.

GREAT HONOUR: HMAS Harman’s ship’s company march past Queanbeyan Mayor Tim Overall and CDRE David Letts. Photo: LSPH Yuri Ramsey

Step forward for AWD project

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THE $8 billion Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) project is a step closer to realisation following the signing of a contract for its new headquarters in Adelaide, South Australia. Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said the AWD Systems Centre will integrate Defence and industry partners. “This will ensure effective decisionmaking and provide a focus for design and project management for the delivery of AWDs to the RAN,” he said. ASC, on behalf of the AWD Alliance, also signed the Systems Centre Assistance Deed with Defence SA, cementing South Australia’s commitment to the location of the Systems Centre in Adelaide. As the new high-tech hub of the AWD project, the AWD Systems Centre at Techport Australia will provide accommodation for 300 staff including personnel from the Commonwealth, ASC, Raytheon Australia, Navantia, Bath Iron Works, Lockheed Martin and the US Navy. The state-of-the-art facility will also be designed and constructed to achieve a five-star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. In early 2010, staff including project managers, systems engineers, naval

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architects, combat systems engineers, planners and procurement specialists will move from their current location in Felixstow to the new purpose-built facility adjacent to the shipyard. The AWD Alliance is made up of the Defence Materiel Organisation, ASC as the Shipbuilder and Raytheon Australia Pty Ltd as the Combat System Systems Engineer.

AWD ON TRACK: The AWD is one step closer to realisation following the signing of a contract for its new headquarters in Adelaide, South Australia. Photo: DMO

New research alliance THE Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the University of Tasmania (UTas) recently signed a new research alliance to undertake further studies in maritime engineering and hydrodynamics. The alliance, involving DSTO and the Launceston-based Australian Maritime College (AMC), which was integrated within UTas last January, will continue with important research in hydrodynamics – the physics of fluids in motion. Defence Science and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon said the research partnership had already made a significant difference to the defence of Australia.

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“DSTO and AMC have worked together successfully for the past 20 years to develop a world-class hydrodynamics research capability,” he said. “This capability has been applied to a number of important projects including Navy’s Collins class submarines, Landing Helicopter Dock amphibious ships, Anzac class frigates and other platforms. “This valued partnership will continue to provide the ADF and the Defence Materiel Organisation with informed advice on these and other maritime programs like the next generation submarine project.”

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Aerospace. Defence. Security. Photograph of HMAS Darwin and Naval formation © www.defenselink.mil. Photographs of Naval comms © Australian Department of Defence.

NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

09

NEWS

Navy pauses for the Cup

60 seconds with... RADM Steve Gilmore, Commander Australian Navy Systems Command Tell us a little about your family… I’ve been married to Kate (also serving in Navy) for 24 years. I have a daughter studying nursing at the University of Canberra and a son in Year 10. What do you do to unwind? I enjoy jogging, attempting to swing a golf club, watching a good movie and being with friends around a barbie. What is your dream car? BMW Z4 If you hadn’t joined the Navy, what do you think you would have done? Not sure as I joined at 16 – I had thought of farming at one point in my youth.

What is your all time favourite movie? Toss up between The Cruel Sea (snorkers good-oh!) and Kenny. If you were stuck in a life raft, who would you want to be there? A Life Raft Maintainer. A proud moment in my life was… Being present whenever my children have achieved a success or tackled a challenge. What sporting team do you barrack for? Port Power – it’s their year again in 09!

What is your favourite type of food? There is nothing better than a red hot curry! What is your favourite drink? A drop of red wine (shiraz/merlot). What is your favourite destination in Australia? After Campbell Park Offices it would have to be Jervis Bay, which is the most naturally beautiful part of this country (in my view). What is your preferred overseas destination? The UK. What type of music do you listen to? Oliva Newton-John and the RAN Band.

By Michael Brooke

RADM Steve Gilmore, CANSC

THE race that stops the nation prompted the Navy to pause momentarily to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day on November 4. Sailors and officers celebrated Cup Day at bases around the country and in ships on station around the world. Although the Cup did not stop the Navy from performing its important duty, it did provide a short break from the high operational tempo for thousands of sailors . Even the ship’s company of HMAS Parramatta, which is on station in the Northern Persian Gulf as part of the ADF’s contribution to Operation Catalyst, took time out to watch the big race on satellite TV. The ‘Kuttabul Kup’ at HMAS Kuttabul (CMDR Bryan Parker) was only one of many fun-filled Melbourne Cup events held at naval bases around the country. More than 400 sailors cheered themselves ‘horse’ during the fiercely contested Kuttabul Kup, which saw ‘jockeys’ mount wooden-horses and move around the ‘track’ according to the roll of the die. The day also featured a sausage sizzle, raffles, entertainment provided by the ‘fashions on the field’ competitions for the best dressed male and female, with the ‘eye-poppers’ receiving $50 gift vouchers. Raffles were also conducted with several lucky sailors winning Ipod Shuffles, a plasma screen TV, digital cameras, Kuttabul coins and $25 gift vouchers.

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CELEBRATION: Members of HMAS Kuttabul gathered to support the ‘Kuttabul Kup’ in the Junior Sailors’ mess on Cup Day. Event organizers PTIs (L-R) LS Trudgen, CPO Harper, AB Gallagher and PO Fish celebrate a job well done. Photo: ABPH Evan Murphy The drinking and idle chatter gave way at 1500hrs when everyone’s attention turned to the big screen for the big race, which saw a 40-1 long-shot, Viewed, clinch a stunning victory amid excited shouts of encouragement from the sailors. The ships’ companies of HMA Ships Stirling, Coonawarra, Cairns, Cerberus, Creswell, Albatross, Waterhen and Watson also celebrated Cup Day in fine fashion. Sailors at HMAS Stirling par-

ticipated in the Stirling Shield, a fun-filled morning of physical and mental challenges, prior to the Melbourne Cup being run at noon (Western Australia time). HMAS Cairns’ senior sailors’ mess hosted the ‘Cairns Cup’, which featured a prawn and champagne lunch. The three messes at Watson also celebrated Cup Day from 1200 onwards, with sweeps, eats and general good fun.

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NAVY NEWS

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November 27, 2008

24

FEATURES

An artist with depth By John Martin LSET Chris Bennett is an artist with depth. Literally. His actual job is as an instructor at the RAN Recruit School at HMAS Cerberus. But art is a leisurely sideline. Since he drew HMAS Cessnock II when he was posted to the patrol boat eight years ago, his drawing pencils and sketch book have been a regular item in his kit whenever he has gone to sea. Since then he has drawn up to 40 ships, even the odd aircraft, and his work has always been in demand with colleagues who want mementoes. But his latest project has a much, much wider audience and he rates it has the pinnacle of his art career so far. He has produced a pencil drawing of HMAS Sydney II, which lies 2470 metres below the surface of the Indian Ocean, 81 nautical miles from Shark Bay in Western Australia. It’s a tough ask drawing something you can’t actually see, using only information that’s in the public domain. But it’s a pretty good representation, according to naval historian LEUT John Perryman, with whom LS Bennett exchanged emails and even took time to meet when he went to Canberra for a wedding in October while he was trying to get his drawing as accurate as possible. The end result is an A2-sized (420mm x 594mm) pencil drawing on watercolour paper.

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TALENTED: LSET Chris Bennet’s drawing of HMAS Sydney II at the bottom of the Indian Ocean.

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Sydney, the pride of the Australian Fleet in World War II, was sunk by the German HSK Kormoran, with all 645 hands lost, on November 19, 1941. LEUT Perryman, who is the Senior Naval Historical Officer at the Sea Power Centre, was aboard SV Geosounder, alongside wreck hunter David Mearns, when the wreck of Sydney was found on March 16 this year. LS Bennett, who comes from Hobart, followed the search with interest and shared the joy when the ship’s final resting place was discovered. He started looking at the pictures on the Finding Sydney website and when he realised there wasn’t a whole ship picture he decided to draw the iconic ship as she lay there on the ocean floor. He says he took his inspiration from American artist Ken Marschall, who has produced a series of paintings and drawings of the wrecks of the Titanic and the Bismarck. LS Bennett normally spends 20 hours drawing and 50 or 60 hours of research before finishing a piece. But this drawing of Sydney took a lot longer. He had to study about 50 photographs of the ship from different angles to get the details right. The drawing wasn’t easy. “You haven’t got any reference line with your eyes when you’re drawing something under water, so you’re basically drawing in the abyss,” he says. “You’ve got to get all your perspective and depth right otherwise it actually looks like you’ve drawn a ship sitting on sand.” He started by doing two basic sketches, then he modified the third as he went, tick-tacking with LEUT Perryman until he was satisfied he had it right. It changed dramatically from those first drafts. He even experimented with pencils, finally settling on 2B and HB pencils. CHAP Graeme Watkinson, of the RAN Recruit School, has bought the original. This is LS Bennett’s second stint in the Navy. He joined in 1994 but it was only when he joined the crew of Fremantle class patrol boat HMAS Cessnock, based in Darwin, that he began drawing. As soon as he drew Cessnock with a Darwin background, he was beseiged by colleagues asking for pictures of that patrol boat and others. He got out of the Navy five years ago and rejoined in July 2007, lured by the chance to guide recruits through their first 11 weeks in the RAN. As part of that tuition he accompanies them for a week aboard 72-metre long ocean-going vessel Seahorse Spirit and always makes sure to pack his drawing things.

Marist College Canberra welcomes ADF families in the ACT.

Marist College is a Congregational Catholic school for boys (Year 4-12) under the care of the Marist Brothers. It has an approximate enrolment of 1250 in the Senior School and 390 in the Junior School and enjoys an excellent reputation for its pastoral care of students, academic studies, cultural and sport pursuits.

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To find out more about Marist College: See our website at www.maristc.act.edu.au or contact the Headmaster's office on (02) 6298 7223 or by email [email protected]

NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

25

SPORT

Army stranglehold ends By Scotty Tobias

GOOD FORM: ABCK Justin Bell led superbly for Navy at the ADO’s National Lawn Bowls Championships.

NAVY lawn bowlers defeated their Army counterparts at the Australian Services Bowls Association’s (ASBA) National Lawn Bowls Championships for the first time in the competition’s 23-year history. Held in Brisbane on October 13–17, the historic win ended Army’s six-year stranglehold on the Service trophy, which saw Air Force crowned new champions. In only their second year since joining the competition, Defence’s Australian Public Service (APS) participants emerged as a new force in Defence lawn bowls finishing runners-up by the smallest of margins. Navy also upped the ante since commencing their five year plan in 2004 to win the Service trophy. An influx of young bowlers not only boosted their depth but injected a level of enthusiasm that was a feature of their play. Navy began the tournament with a disappointing first round loss to Air Force, but the mood in the camp remained positive. APS’ introduction to the competition now meant one loss and you weren’t out of contention anymore and there were some questions to ask following Army’s narrow win against APS in the first round. Navy got off to a flyer against Army and led 42–21 approaching the half-way mark but Army’s bowlers were notorious for their strong finish. Navy held on though as their exuberance lifted the team to win 79–67. The competition was beautifully poised

going into the final round following APS’ win over Air Force. Navy were still a chance if they could convincingly beat APS and hope Air Force and Army shared their four rinks. Air Force managed three rink wins and a draw against Army leaving the door slightly ajar for APS to snatch the trophy. With light rain falling, Navy’s enthusiasm was anything but dampened but they went down fighting to lose a thriller 79–77. In the end it was Air Force’s trophy, scraping home ahead of APS with Navy a close third and Army fourth. This year also saw the introduction of the ASBA’s Development Trophy for personnel who narrowly missed selection for their respective Services. ABATV Dave Chapman and ABET Mark Wallace upset two seasoned Army bowlers to take out the inaugural trophy. ABCK Justin Bell, LSCIS Jason Smith, CPOMW Wade Vidulich and POET Murray Piggot were the selected for the 2009 Arafura Games by Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist, Bill Cornells. Most Valuable Player: ABCK Justin Bell Players’ Player: LSCIS Jason Smith Best First Year Player: SMNCSO Martin Hyland Most Improved Player: LSCD Nick McTernan + ADO’s Best Novice Bowler

BRIEFS Defence sky diving THE newly reformed Australian Defence Force Parachute Association (ADFPA) hopes to have an answer before the end of the year on its application to the Australian Defence Sports Council to become an approved sport. Expressions of interest were sought from skydivers all over Defence and, in a short time, well over 100 responded to offer their support. Navy, Air Force and Army were all represented. An application has been submitted to the Australian Defence Sports Council and it is hoped that a positive response will be received by the end of the year. For further information, contact WO1 Phil Thamm at [email protected]. au

Legend awarded IN 2006 the All Star Team of the past two decades (1986-2006) was voted on by their peers and a plaque presented for each player whose name has been etched in the annals of Navy Football History. At a luncheon held at the Hilton Hotel, one such plaque whose owner had previously been uncontactable, was presented with much ceremony and fanfare. Graham “Gra Gra” Thurstans had the distinguished honour of presenting the plaque to Graham “Spinner” Crispin. Upon accepting the award, while fighting back a few tears, Spinner said that he was honoured to have been recognised and thanked all those present for the opportunity to play Aussie Rules at the highest level within the ADF.

ACT team go down, but not without a fight

LS JAMES Lee’s ACT team failed to take the silverware in a dramatic men’s final at the ADF national netball carnival in Wodonga, Victoria – but he tasted person glory. LS Lee was named the men’s most valuable player after the final in early November. Almost 200 competitors from the states and territories travelled to Wodonga for four days of fierce competition and the men’s final, between NT and ACT, was the first on finals day. Both teams had been strong all week but NT had lost their star shooter, CPL Dean Burke, in the previous game. With the psychological advantage ACT came out strong and fought hard. CPL Christopher-John Sinden and SQNLDR Pete Janssen were a force to reckoned with in defence and turned the game around for NT. Goal shooters, PTE Leigh Jones and LT Peter Parkes, utilised every opportunity and took NT to the lead in the second. In the second half ACT was not going to go down without a fight. ACT goal shooters LCDR Steven Wall and LS Lee shot with extreme accuracy and brought the game back to level.

FIERCE COMPETITION: CPL Todd Dickson (mixed MVP) looks to pass to AB Nicholas Miller(GA) with LT Jarrod Anderson defending for ACT. After some high intensity play NT between ACT and VIC. VIC had took victory 30-27. been beaten only by ACT in the CAPT Sarah Reynolds spear- first final so it was set to be a hard headed SEQLD to victory against fought match. NSW in the women’s final. ACT came out strong taking a The first quarter was a close five goal lead. In the second and one. Both teams played a strong game. By half time SEQLD had a third VIC fought hard, creating five-goal lead. NSW made some opportunities and controlling the changes in the second half but were ball to get themselves back into the game but ACT proved too strong, not able to catch SEQLD. The mixed final was a battle winning by eight goals.

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NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

26

SPORT

From riding home to riding fast By Michael Brooke

RIDING more than 550 km to work each week from Penrith to HMAS Watson is just part of the preparation that enabled PO Darren Kelly to clinch 17th position in the 2008 UCI Track Cycling Masters World Championships. P O K e l l y, t h e C o u r s e Coordinator, Training Development Cell, did the RAN proud in the 14th UCI Track Cycling Masters World Championships that were held in Sydney during October 14-19. Grit and determination, as well as dedication to training, enabled PO Kelly to beat more than 400 international competitors in the six-day championships at the Dunc Gray Velodrome. PO Kelly finished 17 th in the 1km event with a time of 79 seconds, and 19 th in the 200 metre sprint with a time of 12.09 seconds. The competition was so keenly contested by ex- and current-world champions that only 2.4 seconds separated the first 24 competitors in the sprint event.

PO Kelly, 38, said he started cycling eight years ago when he wanted to get healthy and gave up smoking. “Just riding from Penrith to Watson and back four times per week has not only helped me prepare for competitions but enabled me to lose 12 kg,” he said with a chuckle. The 2008 UCI Track Cycling Masters World Championships marked PO Kelly’s first major competition, and he has now set his sights on future challenges in 2009, commencing with the state titles in March, the nationals in April, and the World Games in October. Such is PO Kelly’s success on the track and great potential that he is sponsored by ‘LifeCycles Penrith’ bicycle shop, which has helped provide him with road and track bikes for the competitions. PO Kelly rides a Cervelo bike worth $2500 and wears a speciallydesigned ‘skin’ valued at more than $500 that proudly carries Navy logos. “I am well supported by the

SPEEDY: PO Kelly has taken his casual riding to and from work to high level competition racing. RAN and it’s really important that certificate, which allows him to Navy personnel understand that, breathe new life into his 20-year while serving in the ADF, they can Navy career. also compete at the highest level in “I will achieve the career milethe civilian world,” he said. stone of 20 years in the Navy on PO Kelly revels in a challenge and is also eyeing a new career June 26 next year, when I hope to challenge, which involves attend- be charting a new career path in the ing university to gain his nursing RAN,” he said.

Brits paddle on TWO British exchange officers from Fleet Base East teamed up to raise more than $1000 for the Arrow Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation after kayaking their way down 111km of the Hawkesbury River recently. Both new to the sport, LCDR Stewart Bankier (Royal Navy) and MAJ Jason Ainley (Royal Engineers) paddled in the annual Hawkesbury Canoe Classic during the first weekend of November. Both men set out on the gruelling canoe endurance race from the banks of the Hawkesbury at Windsor at 0515hrs and crossed the line at the Mooney Mooney Bridge at Brooklyn after 15 hours and 34 minutes. Each of them brought their own specialist knowledge to the event with MAJ Ainley using his previous endurance racing experience to advise on food, fuel and preparing for a long distance event. LCDR Bankier used his 24-year long seaman officer career to ensure the navigation went smoothly. They were supported by the mandatory “landcrew” of LCDR Bankier’s wife Kate and MAJ Ailey’s fiancée Michelle. The event has been running for more than 30 years and has rasied more than $1.9 million for medical research.

For more information about the Hawkesbury Classic, visit www. canoeclassic.asn.au

CHARITY: LCDR Bankier and MAJ Ainley took to the Hawkesbury River.

Navy’s arduous ride in the countryside By CPO Dave Lyas

  

PERSONNEL from NHQ-SA rode their bikes through some of South Australia’s most rugged and beautiful countryside when they conducted a five-day expedition to the mid-north of SA in support of the Navy Community Engagement Program. The participants were LCDR Peter Richards (support), LEUT Adam Milburn (rider), WO Jeff Dettman (support) CPOMUSN Doug Antonoff (rider), CPOB David Lyas (support/part-time rider), POB Peter Tucker (rider), LSSN Craig O’Malley (rider/chef), LSMED Matt Lower (rider) LSCIS Angela O’Loan (support) and SMNCD Tristan McPherson (rider). Everyone met at NHQ-SA at 0600hrs on October 20 then drove 380km to Whyalla where they visited Fisk Street Primary School. The following day the riders cycled to 80km Port Augusta where they visited two more schools. Next day all riders rode into Stirling North Primary School and onward to Wilmington in the Flinders Ranges.

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This included riding from the Gulf of St Vincent up the notorious Horrocks Pass, which rises almost 500 metres above sea level. This very difficult stretch of road was made even more difficult by narrow lanes, treacherous bends and a steep incline. Pushing on, the group travelled to the picturesque Melrose, nestled in the shadow of Mt Remarkable, where they spent the night. After visiting the local school early the next morning the team descended back to the coast via the pristine Port Germein Gorge. After the rigorous riding experienced the day before, the long descent through the gorge was a welcome relief. Back on the plains the team discovered the small township of Napperby before riding to Port Pirie where more schools welcomed the riders. The entire 250 km journey was covered by the radio station 5AU, which provided regular updates of the team’s progress so most towns were aware of the Navy’s presence in the area well before the riders passed through.

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TOUGH CONDITIONS: The Navy riders spread Navy’s message to the community of mid-north South Australia. NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

27

SPORT

‘Never say die’ Aussies take game to the wire By Michael Brooke

EAGLE EYE: PO Ian Bamford from HMAS Waterhen, putts for birdie on the par3 16th green.

ADF falls to NSW IT WAS a case of the usual suspects when the NSW Golf Association versus a balance of old warhorses and youthful debutantes from the ADF Golf Association took up the cudgels – or should that be clubs? With the ADFGA winning last year, it was always going to be a hard-fought battle at Muree Golf Club near RAAF Base Williamtown, with the NSWGA team keen to make amends. Though the ADF could not field its strongest side, WO1 Nick Gould, LT Jamie Pitt and COL Lewis Coyle returned to the representative fold, while CPL Trent Fortescue, PTE Matt Creek and FLTLT Sam Harkiss all made their debuts for the ADF. Most of the experience came from WO2 Kim Johansen, WO2 Geoff Skinner, WO1 Bruce Sukroo, FLTLT Daryl Bell, PO Ian Bamford and LAC Lee Oliver. After taking a strong lead during a four ball best ball match, the ADF surrendered their lead to a strong fightback from NSW who won 5-1. The foursomes match was slightly closer, but NSW edged it 4.5 matches to 1.5. The ADF hit full stride in the next afternoon singles match to win 7-5. But it needed 9.5 matches to win the trophy, so fell just short overall, 14.5 to 9.5.

PLAYING with great passion and determination despite pain and injury to win the respect of your opponents is sometimes almost as important as victory – particularly in a World Cup decider when national pride is at stake. Australia’s brave and committed players almost snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in the 2008 Defence Forces Rugby League World Cup final played at the SFS on November 16. Australia went down fighting to arch-rivals and competition favourites Great Britain, but the 26-16 score-line did not reflect how the Aussies played themselves back into the match to come within an ace of an upset victory. The RAN representatives in the team justified selection with gritty and determined performances, with LS Jonathon Briggs and AB Brad Arnel, both of HMAS Creswell, leading by example in their last games before retiring. The combined Australian services team had been routed 36-16 by the British in a round robin encounter only four days earlier and appeared headed for another flogging in the final when the visitors raced to a 10-0 lead. But a ‘scuffle’ involving both teams served to galvanise the ‘never-say die’ Aussies who could clearly live with the pain of their injuries but not with the pain of defeat in a World Cup decider. Great Britain appeared headed for a comfortable lead at the break when Australia’s AB Leigh Wetton, from HMAS Creswell, scored near the corner post to get Australia within striking distance. U n f o r t u n a t e l y, L AC C a l u m

COURAGE: England’s giant winger is gang-tackled by LS John Briggs and AB Leigh Wetton during the final match. Photo: Bill Cunneen Beumester, playing centre, missed the conversion so the score remained 10-4. Great Britain scored soon after the break but Australian fullback CPL Bruce Gleeson (Army) hit back through a long cut-out pass by hooker CPL Michael Green (RAAF). The try was converted to make the score 16-10 with 20 minutes remaining. Minutes later Britain scored a very

lucky try from a deflected chargedown to make the score 20-10, but then Australia’s inspirational prop, LS John Briggs, crashed through three defenders to give his side a sniff of victory at 20-16, with nine minutes to go. Australia’s stoic but exhausted players threw caution to the wind to fight their way to within 20 metres of the tryline on tackle four, but lost the

ball in a heavy tackle with only four minutes left on the clock. Australia’s last desperate belief in victory was snuffed out soon after when Great Britain’s monster winger of Fijian-origin scored near the uprights right on full-time. The conversion was successful giving Great Britain a 26-16 victory. The Australians played with such courage and determination that they were highly praised by the Great Britain captain when he accepted the World Cup trophy. Australian coach Dave Kemp said the unlucky bounce of the ball and losing possession during key attacking opportunities cost his team any chance of victory. Dave praised the courage, initiative and team work of his players who narrowly lost the game but won the respect of their opponents and the crowd of 15,000. “The emptiness of defeat shouldn’t overshadow the courage and commitment of the team who despite pain and injury played four hard games in eight days to qualify for the final.” AB Dan Struber, of HMAS Albatross, was named as Australia’s man of the match in the final while the RAAF’s Michael Green was named as Australia’s player of the tournament. Team coach Sean O’Brien said the team will benefit from this experience and would use the tri-Service competition early in 2009 as an opportunity to rebuild following the retirement of several long-serving players. The inaugural Defence Forces Rugby League World Cup was contested from November 3-16 by New Zealand, Australia, Great Britain, PNG and the Cook Islands.

Trophy gets a new home with the Chief CARETAKER: John Hiller (right) and David Smith (left) hand the GMT Charity Trophy to CN, VADM Russ Crane. Photo: LSPH Yuri Ramsey

By John Martin WHEN HMAS Canberra made one of her last voyages from Sydney to Jervis Bay in 2005 before decommissioning that November, there was a band of friendly rivals aboard. They were members of the ACT Veterans Rugby Union with whom the ship had a special relationship. They had started playing a regular charity rugby match against each other. “One of the things they did that day was fire the gun,” the president of the veterans association, John Hillier, said. “One of my guys picked up the shell, brought it back and we decided to mount it and turn it into a trophy.” Since then that shell, mounted on a heavy, polished jarrah base, has been kept in the office of veterans rugby sponsor GMT Recruitment in Canberra. On November 3, however, the trophy got a new home. Mr Hillier and Jeff Melmouth, the relationship manager of GMT Recruitment, and also one of the veterans’ players, took the trophy to Russell Offices in Canberra to hand it over to the Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane, AM, CSM, RAN. NAVY NEWS

www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/

November 27, 2008

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WAR OF ATTRITION: AB Shane Robson of HMAS Penguin steamrolls into Great Britain’s lines during the Defence Rugby League World Cup final. Photo: Bill Cunneen

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