Page 5
Engaged with Pacific partners
More time on the water
Page 2
Choules in PNG
Patrol boats
Serving Australia with pride
NEWSNAVYVolume 62, No. 3, March 7, 2019
FROM THE DEEP
Submarines put on a
rare displayPage 3
HMA Ships Collins, Farncomb, Dechaineux and Sheean in formation while transiting through Cockburn Sound, Western Australia.Photo: LSIS Richard Cordell
Ex Ocean Explorer
Joint capabilities on show
Centre
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2 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
OFFICERGeneral Court Martial1 x Sexual Intercourse without Consent – DFDA s 61(3) and Crimes Act (ACT) s 54(1)Member was accused of sexual intercourse without consent. Member pleaded not guilty to the charge but was found guilty of the charge. Member was reduced in rank, imprisoned for three months and dismissed from the ADF.
OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate1 x Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm – DFDA s 33AMember was accused of assault-ing another member and caus-ing that member actual bodily harm. Member pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty. Member was dismissed from the ADF.
NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate2 x Prejudicial Conduct – DFDA s 60(1)Member was accused of doing an act that was likely to prejudice the discipline of the ADF by engaging
in inappropriate behaviour. Member was also accused of making offen-sive remarks about a subordinate member in the presence of other subordinate members. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty. Member was fined $1868.37 (to be paid by instal-ments) and forfeited seniority in rank.
NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate1 x Failing to Comply with a General Order – DFDA s 29(1)2 x Prejudicial Conduct – DFDA s 60(1)1 x Assaulting a Subordinate – DFDA s 34
Member was accused of failing to comply with a general order by awarding corrective training that was contrary to a Commanding Officer directive. Member was also accused of prejudicial conduct and assaulting a subordinate. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty. Member was reduced in rank.
NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate2 x Falsifying a Service Document –
DFDA s 55(1)1 x Using a False Document – DFDA s 61(3) andCriminal Code (Cth) s 347
Member was accused of falsifying and using a service document in relation to a fitness assessment. Member pleaded guilty to the charg-es and was found guilty. Member was reduced in rank.
OTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate2 x Obtaining a Financial Advantage – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.2(1)
Member was accused of obtaining a financial advantage in relation to rental allowance by not notifying the approving authority of a change in their circumstances. Member plead-ed guilty to the charges and was found guilty. Member was severely reprimanded, fined a sum of $2000 and forfeited seniority in rank.
OTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate1 x Failing to Comply with a General Order – DFDA s 291 x Disobeying Lawful Command – DFDA s 27
Member was accused of failing to comply with a general order by tampering with live ammunition. Member was also accused of diso-beying a lawful command by failing to inform the appropriate authority that they had live ammunition in their possession. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty. Member was severely repri-manded and fined $1250 (with $500 wholly suspended).
OTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate1 x Obtaining a Financial Advantage – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.2(1)
Member was accused of obtaining a financial advantage in relation to meal payments that they were was not entitled to receive. Member pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty. Member was ordered to pay reparation to the Commonwealth in the sum of $813 (to be paid by instalments) and sen-tenced to 28 days’ detention.
All Court Martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial results are subject to com-mand review and appeal. The results indi-cated are of trials across the ADF.
December 2018 and January 2019 trial results
LEUT Dave Devlin
HMAS Choules has deployed on a month-long activity focused on con-ducting maritime and land training activities with Australia’s regional partners in the South-West Pacific.
Choules’ deployment to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu will contribute to a continuous Australian presence in the region.
The deployment is designed to enhance ADF engagement, deepen bilateral relationships, expand our presence and assist in the building
of regional partner capacity.Defence Minister Christopher
Pyne said the activity was an early contribution to the Australian Government’s enhanced engagement with the Pacific and would continue Australia’s role in promoting the capacity of its regional partners.
“Regional security and stabil-ity remains one of the Australian Government’s highest priorities, as demonstrated by this deployment of Choules,” Mr Pyne said.
Choules departed Townsville with 210 officers, sailors and soldiers on
board, after embarking equipment, stores and tools for delivery across the region.
Throughout the deployment, ele-ments of the ADF multi-function engagement team and mobile train-ing teams will provide community engagement and bilateral training with regional militaries and other government agencies.
CO Choules CMDR Scott Houlihan said the deployments would help facilitate an enhanced program of training activities, exercises and sporting opportunities.
“This deployment builds on those strong relationships that have formed over many decades and will provide countless occasions for our ADF personnel to engage with our regional partners and share in our experiences and lessons through training and friendships,” CMDR Houlihan said.
“The training events and com-munity activities that are planned will provide opportunities for the ship’s company to interact, compete and, overall, contribute to both civil and military communities across the region.”
Strong partners in the Pacific
Below: ABATV Courtney McVeigh conducts an Alpha 400
helmet fit on Ordinary Seaman Douglas Warkaul, of the
PNG Defence Force Maritime Element, on board Choules.
Left: A MRH-90 conducts winching drills by winching LSA Brendan Menz and a member of the PNG Defence Force Maritime Element onto the flight deck of HMAS Choules.Photos: POIS Justin Brown
LEUT Sarah West and Andrew Bujdegan
MARINERS transiting near Western Australia’s coastline in the last week of February were treated to the rare sight of five submarines underway in forma-tion on the surface.
HMA Ships Dechaineux, Sheean, Collins and Farncomb, were joined in the West Australian Exercise Area by United States Navy Los Angeles- class fast attack submarine USS Santa Fe.
The five submarines were participating in a range of com-bined military activities, includ-ing exercises Ocean Explorer and Lungfish.
While it is rare to catch a glimpse of even one submarine at sea, all five rendezvoused off Fremantle, before returning to the depths to resume their tacti-cal exercises.
Deputy Commander Submarine Force CMDR Chris Forward said working with other Navies was a common practice for Australia’s submarine squad-ron.
“Our submariners never miss an opportunity to hone their skills, and exercises like these provide an ideal opportunity to operate closely with our surface ships, submarines and aircraft, as well as with vessels from other countries, in a variety of com-plex scenarios,” CMDR Forward said.
Director General Submarines CDRE Timothy Brown said although rarely seen, the RAN’s submarines were achieving a high operational tempo and would be deploying throughout the region in 2019.
“Last year, our submarines spent more than 600 days at sea, which was the highest tempo ever achieved by the Collins-
class,” CDRE Brown said. “We’re expecting them to
spend closer to 700 days at sea this year, which is a boon for the RAN, because submarines are our primary offensive capa-bility, offering stealth, range, endurance and weapons that can reach into an adversary’s waters and threaten or strike a range of targets.
“Submarines make the plan-ning of military actions much harder for potential adversaries, and require a disproportionate effort to counter, making them a critical strategic asset for Australia.
“Over the past four years, the RAN has had a strong focus on growing our submarine workforce and enhancing the enterprise partnership between Navy, Defence and industry, and these things have underpinned the operational success of the Collins-class in recent times.”
3NEWSMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Submarines put on a rare display
United States Navy Submarine USS Santa Fe joins our submarines in formation in the West Australian Exercise Area.
Collins-class submarines HMA Ships Collins, Farncomb, Dechaineux and Sheean in formation while transiting through Cockburn Sound, Western Australia. Photos: LEUT Chris Prescott
Video of the submarines underway
in formation can be seen at video.defence.gov.au/play/6036
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4 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
LCDR Des Paroz
WHILE transiting to Western Australia for Exercise Ocean Explorer, the guided missile frigate HMAS Newcastle separated from the task group to undertake patrols of key oil infrastructure in Bass Strait as part of Navy’s national maritime security commitment.
CO Newcastle CMDR Anita Sellick said the patrols were impor-tant for the security of Australian maritime resources.
“RAN ships and aircraft rou-tinely patrol key oil and gas infra-
structure as we undertake transits throughout the nation’s exclusive economic zone,” she said.
“These are not one-off events, but a deliberate part of Navy’s persistent and sustained efforts to ensure the security of natural resources and the people who dedi-cate their lives working offshore.
“The influence of a maritime task group consisting of a landing helicopter dock, a replenishment ship and a guided missile frigate is multiplied when individual units are able to detach to undertake independent tasks.”
Maritime Warfare Officer LEUT Ben Liddell was Newcastle’s officer of the watch for the passage, during which the ship patrolled and made contact with a number of oil rigs.
“Our passage took us into prox-imity with 15 rigs and we got in touch with about six of the manned platforms,” LEUT Liddell said.
“They were happy to see us in their area and seemed to enjoy the opportunity to interact with fellow mariners.
“The experience was unusual in that as soon as we completed our
patrol we re-joined the task group and were straight back into anti-submarine and high-end warfare exercises.”
Newcastle’s patrol was sup-ported by an MRH-90 maritime support helicopter operating from HMAS Canberra, the flagship of the task group.
After Ocean Explorer, Newcastle will deploy to South Asia before returning to her Fleet Base East home port, where she is due to decommission later this year.
HMAS Newcastle patrols oil rigs in Bass Strait. Photos: ABIS Kieren Whiteley
Protecting our resources
Charting safer seasTHE Laser Airborne Depth Sounder (LADS) Flight is deployed to Invercargill in New Zealand to undertake survey operations over Macquarie Island.
The World Heri tage-l isted island, about halfway between Australia and Antarctica, hosts an Australian Antarctic Division research station.
The aim of the survey is to improve knowledge of potential dangers to ships visiting the island, with a focus on the area surrounding the station.
XO LEUT Cheyne Colley said the improved data would be used to update the existing nautical charts used by vessels navigating in the area.
“The charts that are updated from the data captured by LADS will ensure safer navigation and
greater environmental protection by reducing the risk of a marine acci-dent,” LEUT Colley said.
The LADS flight will f ly as many as eight sorties from Invercargill, with each sortie lasting up to seven hours.
“The unit is unique to any Navy in the world. The technology was
developed in Australia and uses a scanning laser which is mounted in the aircraft to collect hydrographic survey data and depth information,” LEUT Colley said.
More information on LADS Flight is avail-able at: //www.navy.gov.au/fleet/aircraft/laser-airborne-depth-sounder
The Navy Laser Airborne Depth Sounder flight in New Zealand.
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5NEWSMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
CPL Sebastian Beurich
SAILORS in the Top End are benefiting from more hands-on experience maintain-ing the patrol boat fleet following contract changes introduced in 2017.
The updated contracts with service providers Thales and Austal have led to a better relationship between Defence and its contractors. One of the benefits is more work and experience for FSU sailors.
Patrol Boat Group Class Lifecycle Engineering Officer CMDR Rudi Wagemaker said Navy had learnt valuable lessons from past availability issues in terms of both people and platforms.
He said these lessons were now being put into practise.
“The lack of certainty we experienced several years ago impacted on crew morale because the crews didn’t know when they were going to be home and the maintenance staff didn’t know when the boats would be alongside,” CMDR Wagemaker said.
In mid-2017, Defence engaged Thales for in-service support to the Armidale-class patrol boats and Austal for the Cape-class boats with a new contract format designed to encourage performance and reward innovation.
PBSPO Chief Engineer CMDR Todd Tippett said the new contract was about leveraging off the industry expertise of Navy’s partners
“One of the main tenets of perfor-mance-based contracting, as a customer, is articulating what we require, then allow-ing the supplier to maximise their effi-ciency and innovate solutions to determine the ‘how’,” he said.
For the sailors at FSU - N, the contract changes have meant a lot more hands-on time with the boats, as well as the oppor-tunity to learn from experienced trades-persons.
Going from “getting the crumbs left over from any work package” to “going through the proper process of tender, fighting for contracts and jobs” was a refreshing change for FSU - N Condition Monitoring Manager POMT Brendan Roby.
“There’s more accountability on FSU, however, we’re also liaising directly with Thales,” PO Roby said.
“More often than not, we’re sharing workshops, spaces and jobs and tasks. We try and keep it separate as much as pos-sible, but there is a lot of give and take and some overlap as well.”
With more access to maintenance tasks, less experienced FSU - N sailors can shadow their civilian counterparts and learn by observation.
SMNMT Shabor Reza said there were no secrets between maintenance staff.
“They’re good people who have been working for a long time and have a lot more experience than us,” SMN Reza said.
“They’re not doing anything under the table or behind closed doors; it’s all in front of you. You can ask questions, learn and, with the right attitude, gain that knowledge.”
For PBSPO Director CAPT Chris Eggleton, the increase in capability now delivered to Navy was remarkable.
“Two years ago, we had two boats in the water every day,” he said.
“Right now, every day of the week, we have 10 boats in the water available for use.
“CASG, Navy, industry and in-service support contractors are providing us with a powerful team I can put onto identified tasks to quickly, effectively and efficiently solve problems.
“We’ve come an awful long way and now we have the tools, experience and team to meet any future challenge.”
HMAS Maitland in drydock at HMAS Coonawarra for maintenance at the end of January. Photos: CPL Sebastian Beurich
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6 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
LEUT Ben Willee
TWO Navy unmanned aerial systems (UASs) were on display at the recent 2019 Australian International Airshow at Avalon, Victoria.
822XSQN, Navy’s Maritime Tactical UAS Squadron, displayed the ScanEagle and the S-100 Camcopter at the major aviation event.
ABATV Rik Murtagh is the oper-ator and the maintainer of the S-100 Camcopter.
“My job is to fly and fix, including conducting unscheduled and scheduled maintenance,” AS Murtagh said.
“The aircraft is primarily used for reconnaissance and surveillance task-ings, meaning we can provide extended sensory range over the horizon from the ship,” he said.
UASs provide critical contributions to military operations. Capable of oper-ating from a ship’s flight deck, they pro-vide real-time, full motion video by day or night.
AB Murtagh said it was both unusual
and challenging to work with military capability so small in size.
“I enjoy how technological ly advanced the equipment is and flying is always a joy.
“Having been a helicopter maintainer for a while, it’s great to see the pilot’s point of view for a change,” he said.
822XSQN is tasked with conducting operational evaluation activities, devel-oping UAS procedures and assessing UAS capabilities in maritime specific roles for Navy.
Since 2013, extensive operational evaluation has been conducted to con-firm the suitability of the technology for Navy operations, with a focus on aircraft performance and payload capability.
This information will support the acquisition of the future maritime tacti-cal UAS capability for Navy.
More details from Avalon will be available in the next edition of Navy News.
Additional imagery is available on the defence image gallery at images.defence.gov.au/s20190280
ABATV Rik Murtagh showcases the 822XSQN S-100 Camcopter UAS at the 2019 Australian International Airshow. Photo: CPL Jessica de Rouw
An eye in the sky at Avalon
LSIS Jake Badior
EIGHT young Australians, one from each state and territory, were treated to a day in the life of a submariner at HMAS Stirling in early February.
The National Submariner Competition and Tour, led by DFR, was aimed at giving peo-ple the chance to experience life in the RAN.
One of the lucky few, Noah Edberg, of Canberra, said the opportunity cemented his deci-sion to join the Navy.
“I still have a long road ahead before my dream of becoming a submariner can become a reality, but this expe-rience has only strengthened my determination to achieve it,” he said.
“Having the chance to tour a fully operational submarine and speak with serving subma-riners was really fascinating.”
The immersive tour of HMAS Sheean was just one aspect. Winners also toured simulators at the Submarine Training and Systems Centre, tested their fitness during a PT session and honed their skills on the Weapon Training Simulation System.
Sarah Cox, 18, of Darwin,
said her experience was life-changing.
“I have always been really curious about the mystery sur-rounding submarines, so get-ting the chance to be a part of the tour was really exciting,” she said.
“I always thought it would be cool, but now I can see myself pursuing a career as a submariner for sure.”
Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the competition allowed Australians the chance to expe-rience life as a submariner and learn more about the RAN.
“The Navy is looking for people with the right combina-tion of intelligence, resilience, discipline and teamwork to fill these roles,” he said.
“Being a submariner in the Navy is a career that redefines comfort zones and shows someone what they’re truly capable of.
“The competition allows Australians the opportunity to discover the extraordinary variety of trades and techni-cal professions on offer, with a career option in the Navy suiting a broad range of back-grounds, skill levels, expertise and interests.”
Winners learn the ropes
Standing on the casing of HMAS Sheean during a tour are, from left, Katelyn Mayne, Sarah Cox, Jack Evans, ABEW SM Kale Vassallo, Damon Dawson, Melvin Wong, LSET SM Leon Bromley, Noah Edberg, Kirkley Whiting, LSCIS SM Casey Seizovic and Tahlia Purdie. Photo: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko
7NEWSMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
LSIS Jake Badior
VOLUNTEERS are bounding into Darwin animal shelter PAWS following a recent initiative emphasising mental health and giving back to the commu-nity.
Sailors and soldiers posted to HMAS Coonawarra are incorporating their furry friends into a new form of PT.
CPOPTI Stuart Rowe was one of the first to take the lead on the idea.
“The days of PTI’s yelling and screaming are well and truly over. We cater for everyone and it’s working really well,” he said.
“We are placing more emphasis on our people, maintaining their mental fit-ness as well as physical.”
ABBM Sarah Fryer, an aspiring PTI working in Coonawarra’s PT section, said they have incorporated the animals into sessions so members can take a dog when they go for a run.
“It’s great being able to incorporate it into our programs,” AB Fryer said.
“I think getting people off base and involved in the community is great. It also instigates conversation between people who wouldn’t normally speak.”
PAWS Darwin is a not-for-profit animal welfare organisation providing care for unwanted and stray animals, with the goal of re-homing them to lov-ing families.
CPO Rowe believes in a flexible work environment and giving people the opportunity to get involved with some-thing outside of work.
“We need to change our mindset from ‘sit here until something pops up’,” he said.
“If the work’s on, it’s on; if not, don’t make people sit around – encour-age them to get out and engage with the community.”
After word spread about PAWS, sol-diers from TSE also got involved.
“PAWS have been really accom-modating with us, really welcoming our help and adjusting their schedule to get people inducted,” AB Fryer said.
“At our first major induction we had more than 50 people from Navy and Army.
“It’s not just doing something for the community that makes you feel good, you also get to hang out with something furry.”
After completing an induction at PAWS, personnel can come and go at their leisure.
“Fit to fight, fit to work and fit for life, that’s what we’re aiming for,” CPO Rowe said.
“We’ve got people who are taking dogs for a walk up to four times a week.
“Getting patrol boat crews and TSE members involved is also proving quite valuable as a good way to relax between trips at sea.”
AB Fryer said she was overjoyed at the response to the initiative.
“I just love seeing people happy,” she said.
“It’s also fantastic to see people giv-ing back.
“I think it’s good to do something selfless once in a while and it’s great to see other people get enjoyment out of that too.”
Personnel can register online, con-tact the Coonawarra PT section or go directly to PAWS to be inducted.
Helpers put their best paws forward
SMNMT Keetah Davies, left, and PTE Cody Frost of Transit Security Element 91, and ABBM Sarah Fryer, of HMAS Coonawarra, with two residents of the PAWS Darwin animal shelter. Photo: POIS Peter Thompson
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SBLT Max Logan
TO MARK the 77th anniver-sary of the bombing of Darwin, a number of commemorative services were held in the Northern Territory.
The bombing, which occurred on February 19, 1942, was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australian soil, with more than 240 people dead, 500 injured, 30 aircraft destroyed and 11 ships sunk.
During the first commemo-rative event, the United States Navy Clemson-class destroyer USS Peary was remembered at the Peary Memorial Gun on the Darwin Esplanade.
Peary was sunk by five Japanese aircraft bombs raid, kill-ing more than 80 members of the ship’s company.
The service was attended by ADF members, ex-servicemen and women, special guests and Darwin locals.
A United States Marine Corps colour party and HMAS Coonawarra flag party conducted ceremonial duties as attendees remembered the lives lost during the sinking of Peary.
In support of the commemora-tion, the Armidale-class patrol boat HMAS Armidale was under-way in Darwin Harbour, sailing in close proximity to where the Peary wreck lies.
In an address to the gathering, CO HMAS Coonawarra CMDR Darren Rushworth captured the poignancy of the occasion.
“Thank you USS Peary, thank you. You will not be forgotten,” CMDR Rushworth said.
SBLT Max Logan
THE sound of artillery and gunfire ech-oed around Darwin City and across the harbour during the 77th anniversary of the bombing of Darwin on February 19.
Among the crowd gathered at the Darwin Cenotaph to commemorate the event were ADF veterans, senior govern-ment officials, senior ADF officers of the Northern Territory and many other serv-ing members from across the Top End.
There was also strong attendance by Darwin locals and school children – all present to remember the fallen and mark a pivotal moment in Darwin and Australia’s history.
An address by Mr Matt Hall, a third-generation former Air Force pilot, set the scene before a triservice catafalque party took post at the Cenotaph.
At 9:58am, the air-raid siren sounded and members of Army’s 8/12 Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery led a re-enactment of the fateful day, firing four M2A2 105mm Howitzers and Mag-58s. Armidale-class patrol boat HMAS Armidale supported the re-enactment from the harbour, simultaneously firing a .50cal machine gun.
CO 8/12 Regiment LTCOL Joe Wheatley said it was important to sup-port the commemoration.
“It’s an opportunity to recognise the
fighting spirit of Darwin and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice 77 years ago,” LTCOL Wheatley said.
“We remember the courage and com-mitment it took to rebuild the city of Darwin and make it the city it is today.”
The cenotaph became a sea of colour as wreaths were laid by attendees repre-senting an array of groups, organisations and military units.
The Ode of Remembrance was recit-ed by local high school students before the Last Post, a minute’s silence and The Rouse.
A final simultaneous round from the Howitzers was an appropriate end to the ceremony.
Remembering fallen together
Thank you to USS Peary
9NEWSMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
CO HMAS Coonawarra CMDR Darren Rushworth pays his respects after laying a wreath at the USS Peary Memorial. Photo: POIS Peter Thompson
Officer-in-Charge Forward Coordination Element Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, LTCOL Jeramy Brady, CO 13 Squadron WGCDR Steven Parsons, CO HMAS Coonawarra CMDR Darren Rushworth, and acting Deputy Commander Northern Command LTCOL Samuel Pickering, pay their respects. Photo: SGT David Millard
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10 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
LEUT Sarah West
THE newly refurbished combined ranks mess at HMAS Cairns has been named in honour of a former warrant officer who was severely injured while on duty overseas.
DCN RADM Mark Hammond unveiled the venue’s new name as the WOB Ian Chill Combined Mess in a ceremony on February 13.
WOB Chill (retd) was the XO of HMAS Tarakan in 2004 when the vessel was deployed to the Solomon Islands as part of Operation Anode.
While deployed, he fell into a crevasse, suffering injuries that left him paralysed and confined to a wheelchair.
Although he was medically dis-charged from the Navy, WOB Chill retained close links with his former shipmates and has remained active in the Cairns community, serving as an advocate for people with dis-abilities.
XO HMAS Cairns LCDR Steve Taragel hoped the new name would inspire officers and sailors work-ing at the North Queensland naval base.
“Resilience plays a big part in the lives of the officers and sailors that serve in Cairns, so it is particu-larly fitting that our new mess is named after a particularly resilient member of our community,” LCDR Taragel said.
“It’s my hope this gesture From left, DCN RADM Mark Hammond, WOB Ian Chill (retd) and CO HMAS Cairns CMDR David Hannah with Cairns personnel at the official naming of the WOB Ian Chill Combined Mess.
Dishing up resilience
– LCDR Steve Taragel, XO HMAS Cairns
It’s my hope this gesture makes a former shipmate feel like an important part of the Navy family.
‘‘
makes a former shipmate feel like an important part of the Navy fam-ily and strengthens ties with our broader community of past and pre-sent sailors and officers, while also providing inspiration for everyone who works at HMAS Cairns.”
WOB Chill said he was “both humbled and honoured” to have the mess named after him.
“I still love the Navy and everything it stands for, despite everything that has happened to me,” he said.
“I look forward to continu-ing my relationship with HMAS Cairns and watching the next gen-eration of sailors pass through its doors.”
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www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019 1312 CENTREExercise Ocean Explorer
LCDR Dallas Gray
HMAS Success welcomed eight members of the Royal New Zealand Navy on board for part of the ship’s fi-nal deployment before she is decom-missioned in June.
The RNZN contingent, compris-ing three officers and five junior sail-ors, jumped at the chance to sail in Success a week after the RAN extend-ed an invitation for them to join the ‘Battle Tanker’ on her final voyage as a ‘Her Majesty’s Australian Ship’.
Before sailing, the Kiwi’s relished the chance to get out and about to en-joy the many sights, sounds and culi-nary delights on offer in Sydney.
MIDN Hamish Hahunga said they all enjoyed exploring the city, but the focus was now firmly on the deploy-ment.
“Sydney is a big city, but it was fun getting out and exploring,” MIDN Hahunga said.
“We visited a bunch of big-ticket tourist attractions and enjoyed the various cafes and restaurants.
“Now that we’ve sailed though, it’s time to switch onto the task at hand and quickly come up to speed with the ship’s routines. Fortunately there isn’t a big difference in the way we conduct business in our own ships.”
Ordinary marine technician Quinn Harris said he was excited to be sail-ing in Success.
“Initially, it was all a bit of a rush, from hearing we were coming across to saying our farewells to family and friends, but from the moment we stepped on board we were welcomed by the ship’s crew and made to feel
right at home,” ordinary rate Harris said.
“We’re all pretty excited and look-ing forward to working and training alongside the ship’s company, and the port visits look pretty awesome as well.”
The embarkation of the RNZN personnel is an excellent opportunity to strengthen the enduring partnership between the two countries.
The shared voyage is also a re-minder that the Anzac spirit remains as strong as ever.
Success is deployed for four months and will visit a number of ports in the Indian Ocean and South Asia areas in order to strengthen part-nerships with some of Australia’s close partners and promote security and stability in the region.
Embarkation a reminder Anzac spirit is alive and well
The RNZN officers and sailors embarked in HMAS Success.
ABBM Ailsa Schwerin instructs RNZN sailor AB combat specialist Joshua Halliwell on loading the 12.7mm machine gun during force protection training exercises on board HMAS Success. Photos: LSIS Christopher Szumlanski
ON THE HUNT
HMAS Canberra sails in company with HMA Ships Success and Newcastle along with three MH60-R Maritime Combat Helicopters, a MRH-90 Maritime Support Helicopter and a RAAF P8 Poseidon aircraft during Exercise Ocean Explorer 2019. Photo: ABIS Kieren Whiteley
ANTI-SUBMARINE warfare capabilities have been show-cased during Exercise Ocean Explorer 2019, which is un-
derway in the West Australian Exercise Area.
As part of Ocean Explorer, a mari-time task group transited from Sydney to Western Australia to join up with RAAF maritime patrol aircraft in order to locate and prosecute potential subma-rine threats.
During the transit, simulated ad-versarial submarines were identified and located by a RAAF P-8A Poseidon
aircraft partnering with Navy MH60-R ‘Romeo’ maritime combat helicopters from HMA Ships Canberra and Newcas-tle to pinpointing the threats.
Commander of the Australian Maritime Task Group, CAPT Andrew Quinn remarked on the impressive joint capabilities in action during the exercise.
“Submarines complicate the ma-noeuvre of a maritime surface task group,” CAPT Quinn said.
“The world-leading identification, location and tracking capabilities offered by Poseidon and Romeo aircraft provide a potent response to the growing prolif-
eration of potential submarine threats in Australia’s near region.
“The joint maritime effect delivered by Navy and Air Force in this domain positions Australia as a capable partner in maintaining a rules-based global order.
“The joint exercise undertaken dur-ing Ocean Explorer demonstrates ADF’s ability to deploy an integrated and highly effective capability to protect our na-tion’s sea lines of communications and economic security,” he said.
Aviation Warfare Officer, LCDR Damian Liberale from 816SQN’s Flight
4 (Parramatta), which is currently embarked in Canberra, orchestrates the aircraft’s mission in both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, as well as in other directed tasking.
“With 24 Romeos between our train-ing and operational squadrons, Navy is currently supporting eight embarked flights in various fleet units,” LCDR Liberale said.
“Currently the Romeo operates mainly from Anzac-class and Adelaide-class frigates, and in the near future Hobart-class destroyers, and it is exciting to see them embarked in the
Canberra-class amphibious assault ships to augment other anti-submarine warfare assets.
“The sophisticated combat systems in the aircraft allow us to accurately lo-cate a submarine using organic sensors and engage with anti-submarine warfare weapons during the prosecution of a hostile adversary.”
The Ocean Explorer Task Group, consisting of HMA Ships Canberra, Newcastle and Success, is continuing its transit to Western Australia. From there, the ships will undertake a deploy-ment to various ports in South Asia.
Our impressive joint capabilities are on show in the West Australian Exercise area, writes LCDR Des Paroz.
An MH-60R Seahawk raises it’s dipping sonar above HMAS Farncomb as she transits through the exercise area.Photo: LSIS Richard Cordell
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15FEATURESMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
Working to liveThe work of instructors at HMAS Cerberus is hard but rewarding, LSIS Jake Badior reports.
OIC of the School of Survivability and Ship Safety at HMAS Cerberus, WOMT Dennis Carroll, right, and instructor LSMT Simon Middleton in the training fire unit. Photos: POIS Nina Fogliani
A SHORT bike ride to work and beautiful beaches at your doorstep can cer-tainly make a challenging
job more appealing.That’s the view of LSMT
Simon Middleton about his posting to HMAS Cerberus.
An instructor at the School of Survivability and Ship Safety, LS Middleton believes most people leave Cerberus thinking they’ll never be back, but says many soon change their view when they real-ise the benefits.
“I thought that when I left, but returning to work here as an instructor has changed my mind,” he says.
“We work pretty hard, but it’s hugely rewarding.”
LS Middleton said there were family and quality-of-life benefits to being posted to Cerberus.
“You’re on the Mornington Peninsula; it’s an amazing place to live,” he says.
“When I was in Sydney I had an hour commute either way; now it takes me six minutes on my bike.
“Being down here means I can spend a lot more time with my family.”
LS Middleton is looking to commission and says having instructor experience would make the transition much easier.
“This posting has definitely helped me with my leadership and management skills,” he says.
“You’re given a huge amount of responsibility. Leading seamen and ABs are the main instructors.
“Working in a small team and being able to rely on each other is really important.”
Training Facility - South (TF - S) Manager WO Dennis Carroll says taking on an instruc-tional role could be valuable in a sailor’s career.
“As an AB you have the chance to instruct classes of around 25 people; you don’t really have that opportunity anywhere else in Navy,” he says.
“After instructing DC, you find you have a much higher level of confidence when going back into the fleet.
“Promotion prospects following an instructional posting are also really high.
“Instructing here as a PO was one of my favourite postings.”
WO Carroll says the small teams worked well together and were always excited to have a new course arrive.
“The instructors give their absolute best here; morale is high,” he says.
“All instructors are treated the same, no matter the rank. Giving more responsibility to our ABs and LSs is something I wish we saw more of out in the fleet.
“No one says they’ve had a bad time at four Ss.”
TF - S is scheduled to train about 1500 recruits in 2019 and by the end of 2020, Cerberus will be home to a new training facility.
It will feature an updated fire-fighting centre better reflecting a modern ship, and a dynamic flood tank, which can list seven degrees in either direction, better replicat-ing the experience of being at sea.
Trainees change into fire-fighting clothing.
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16 PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
LCDR Ben Robinson
MEMBERS of the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal (DFRT) vis-ited a variety of different vessels in Sydney recently to experience work-ing conditions at sea.
The visit enabled the team – comprised of Ingrid Asbury, RADM James Goldrick (retd) and Adrian Morris – to see first-hand the work value associated with employment in seagoing assets.
The activity also provided an opportunity for the DFRT members to understand issues affecting the fleet and in particular the impact of workforce hollowness and the effec-tiveness of maritime allowance.
RADM Goldrick said the visits gave the tribunal an understanding of the human impact of service at sea.
“The other members of the DFRT have not previously served in the military, so the opportunity for them to experience the living and working conditions at sea is invalu-able,” RADM Goldrick said.
“Navy gave the tribunal a tour of a variety of different ship classes from HMAS Canberra to HMAS Yarra, which meant they could understand the different conditions in major fleet units compared to minor war vessels.
“Defence does an amazing job of articulating this when they present to the DFRT; however, there is nothing quite like experiencing these condi-tions for yourself.”
Director Navy People Policy
Visit to ships pays off
President of the DFRT, Ms Ingrid Asbury, chats with LCDR Matthew Cooke on board HMAS Canberra.
DFRT members and support staff with Navy personnel on board HMAS Canberra.Photos: LSIS Kayla Jackson
Governance CAPT Phil Henry said the visit gave Navy an opportunity to present a series of briefs on work-force hollowness, retention initia-tives and connectivity at sea.
“By front-loading the tribunal with these briefs, they then had an appreciation of how these issues impacted the workforce at the coalface,” CAPT Henry said.
“Discussions on connectivity and the impact this has on the ‘qual-ity of life’ was articulated to the tribunal before the ship visit, which gave them a greater appreciation of
how this impacted the sailors when they are at sea.
“These presentations meant the conversations the tribunal had with members at sea were more targeted to gain a more meaningful apprecia-tion.”
The DFRT is an independent statutory authority established under section 58H of the Defence Act 1903. It conducts visits and inspec-tions to gain an understanding of how various parts of the ADF work to deliver the government’s defence capability.
The DFRT is a legally independ-ent body comprised of three mem-bers appointed with the sole purpose of setting pay and allowance rates for ADF members.
While the ADF makes submis-sions to the DFRT, its determina-tions are made at the sole discretion of its three members and cannot be overturned by the ADF or the gov-ernment.
Additional imagery can be seen at //images.defence.gov.au/S20183403
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NEWLY promoted CPOMT Benjamin Smith is proud to be the first sailor to be posted to all three of Navy’s new-est and most capable warships: the guided missile destroyers HMA Ships Hobart III, Brisbane III and NUSHIP Sydney.
Having commissioned the first two destroyers, he is excited to be joining the commissioning crew of Sydney and putting his vast knowledge and experience into practice.
“Commissioning a ship is no small challenge; it’s hard work, but will be one of the most rewarding experienc-es of your career,” CPO Smith said.
CPO Smith completed two post-ings on the previous guided missile frigate HMAS Sydney IV, including being part of the ship’s decommis-sioning crew in 2015.
“It’s hard to explain; once you’ve served on Sydney you just know – it isn’t just the ship, it’s the culture, it’s the attitude, it’s the crew.
“I endeavour to live up to her name and remain ‘Thorough and Ready’,” CPO Smith said, referring to Sydney’s motto.
CPO Smith has benefited from some rare opportunities since joining the ‘destroyer family’ in 2017.
While serving in the surface com-batant group destroyer capability ele-ment, he sailed in the Spanish Navy destroyer Cristobal Colon to gain plat-form familiarisation and training.
His posting to Hobart was as the platform hull and damage control supervisor, during which time he was awarded his machinery systems man-ager qualification. This was a busy period for CPO Smith and Hobart, bringing the platform into service and participating in first-of-class trials.
He then posted to HMAS Brisbane in mid-2018.
17PERSONNELMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
CPOMT Benjamin Smith is the first sailor to have been posted to all three Hobart-class destroyers.
And DDG makes three
REQUESTS for legal support are now submitted to Director Defence Counsel Services (DCS) in Canberra following changes announced by DCN RADM Mark Hammond.
DCS provide legal support to Navy members, as well as any Army and Air Force members posted to Navy ships and establishments.
RADM Hammond said Defence was making changes to improve consisten-cy, efficiency and accountability of legal advice.
“There will be no changes to the scope of legal support provided to members under these changes,” RADM Hammond said.
RADM Hammond emphasised the cen-tral role of the divisional system in sup-porting personnel.
“Legal advice is not a substitute for the support and guidance that divisional officers and senior NCOs should provide,” he said.
“Members should expect that, after assessing requests for legal support, DCS may re-direct members to their divisional system for non-legal assistance.”
The Legal Officer – Personnel posi-tions in Defence Plaza, Sydney, and HMAS Stirling were abolished in January and changes to HMAS Cerberus will take effect in May.
All requests for legal support from DCS are to be made to 1800 563 563 or [email protected]
Further information on accessing legal sup-port from DCS is available on unit websites.
Improved changes to legal support
“This came with its own chal-lenges, but I was able to take les-sons from Hobart and use them to improve on our processes and procedures as a ship class,” he said.
CPO Smith returned to Hobart for her combat systems sea quali-fication trials off the west coast of the United States in late 2018.
This was a milestone period for the ship, proving the Aegis Weapons System capability through the firing of all weapon systems against realistic threat targets.
“This was an invaluable expe-rience, being able to witness Hobart’s missile firings and con-duct maintenance that is usually
passed onto contractors,” he said.CPO Smith was also tasked
to review the ship’s maintenance package in preparation for the post delivery upgrade for 2019.
Sydney is in the later stages of construction at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide.
She is due to be commissioned in 2020.
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19TRAININGMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
LEUT Sarah West
A new learning system simulator introduced to the Defence Force School of Signals Maritime Wing at HMAS Cerberus in December will be used for the first time dur-ing a pilot course in mid-2019.
Developed by Australian company CIRRUS, the simulator will ensure Navy’s newest CIS sailors are better prepared for the rigours of operating at sea.
COMTRAIN CDRE Justin Jones said the simulator would greatly enhance Navy’s capa-bilities across a range of dynamic maritime operations.
“Our focus is on being a thinking Navy and a fighting Navy in all that we do, and this requires us to provide our people with best-practice training to prepare them for success throughout their careers,” CDRE Jones said.
“Communicators are critical to the success of our fleet as we operate in an increasingly dynamic maritime domain, regularly in task groups with ships, aircraft and troops on the ground, conducting operations that protect the security and interests of our nation and its people.
“This demands us to be able to transmit, receive and process more information than we ever have before, faster than we ever have before; this simulator is about getting our people up to speed so we can fight and win at sea.”
The simulator is based on a generic com-munication centre in an enhanced frigate and is designed to mimic the operational environ-ment at sea, using real-life scenarios that may be encountered by communicators embarked in major fleet units.
The training package will enable self-paced learning, with instructors able to moni-tor and provide help when needed.
Scenarios will require students to complete tasks within fleet standard timeframes, with the system able to assess the trainees’ perfor-mances and track their progress.
The simulator will be used to support training and assessment, from basic through to advanced communications operator courses.
A simulating experience
CIS trainees use the new communications centre simulator during a trial on February 11 at the Defence Force School of Signals Maritime Wing, HMAS Cerberus. Photos: ABIS Bonny Gassner
Trainee SMNCIS Bethany Carmody completes a task with the simulator.
LSCIS Eric O’Donnell instructs trainee SMNCIS Spencer Evaga.
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THE multi-role aviation training ves-sel MV Sycamore is preparing for a big year of training the next generation of officers and sailors.
Trainee helicopter control officers, flight deck marshallers and maritime warfare officers (MWO) undergo-ing phase three of their training were joined by cadets from the Waratah and Taipan flotillas in the training ship when she left Sydney in late January.
The Waratah flotilla comprised cadets from training ships in Sydney, southern NSW and the ACT, while the Taipan flotilla included cadets from central and northern NSW.
Among the cadets were siblings CDTPO Stephanie Bergquist and CDTLS Matthew Bergquist.
Both are on course to transition into Navy this year.
Matthew is scheduled to join HMAS Cerberus mid-year as a recruit communications and information sys-tems sailor.
Stephanie intends to join later this year and said she was using the week
in Sycamore to help determine her pre-ferred job category.
While they were on board, Sycamore completed multiple day and night flying sorties with the EC135, in support of 723SQN aviation training.
While watching the helicop-ter operations was the highlight of Stephanie’s voyage, Matthew relished the opportunities to take part in on-water evolutions.
“I really enjoyed going around in the RHIBs (rigid-hulled inflatable boats) and I’m excited about joining the Navy,” he said.
Six adult volunteers and four flo-tilla support officers accompanied the 27 cadets as they got a feel for the rewards and challenges of life at sea.
Many of the cadets plan to join the Navy across a variety of employment categories.
Almost all agreed the highlight was watching the EC135s land on the flight deck from their high vantage point in the ship’s helicopter control station.
Officer of Cadets LEUT John Huisman said the cadets thoroughly enjoyed their experience.
A chance to see it all at sea
21TRAININGMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
“Other highlights included carrying out watch duties, taking the helm and participating in crash boat and life raft drills,” LEUT Huisman said.
The ship also completed various navigation activities for the MWO phase-three trainees. The cadets acted as helmsmen, lookouts and upper-deck general duties personnel.
The three MWO trainees were embarked as part of a pilot program in which mariners from Teekay Shipping, which operates Sycamore on behalf of Navy, trained them for about two weeks at sea and alongside.
Navy cadets watch from the helicopter control station as an EC135 lands on the flight deck of MV Sycamore.
Brother and sister CDTLS Matthew
Bergquist and CDTPO Stephanie
Bergquist are on course to join Navy
this year.
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22 TRAINING www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 7, 2019
LEUT Daniel Watson
IN THEIR first week at sea at the beginning of February, the new CO of HMAS Gascoyne and his ship’s company hosted the newest officers of the mine warfare community for their final sea assessment.
The visiting members of the mine warfare officer (MWO) course demonstrated their consoli-dated skills in mine warfare serials by classifying, identifying and counter-mining sea mines.
Under the supervision of instructors and the ship’s staff, the course participants conducted mine disposal vehicle runs, which rein-forced the importance of practising mine warfare while maintaining navigational safety.
The relationship between the bridge team and mine warfare students developed as the week progressed and regular assessments were conducted.
At the conclusion of the week, the understanding between officers of the watch and MWOs allowed for faster and safer evolutions and an improved ability to maintain open sea lanes of communication within a mine threat environment.
The week also proved an excel-lent opportunity for the ship’s company to conduct a shakedown period, orienting new members of the crew to ship routines and vali-dating damage control efforts.
During phase three of their training the MWOs progressed towards their platform endorse-ments, exercised ship handling skills, man overboard drills and boat operations, under the instruc-tion of the navigating officer.
The week at sea on the mine-hunter was particularly significant for LEUT Liam Northend, who on completion of the MWO course became Gascoyne’s operations officer.
“It was a really positive experi-ence working towards the final assessments under this command team,” LEUT Northend said.
“I was an officer of the watch during mine warfare exercises in Korea and Japan last year, so to be able to step up and have greater responsibility in Gascoyne for our upcoming overseas deployment is a special opportunity and a challenge I’m looking forward to.”
The MWO course involves 10 weeks of theoretical and practical training and equips the trainees with the fundamental knowledge required for mine warfare opera-tions.
All six students who conducted their assessments in Gascoyne achieved the required competencies and will proceed to different units to further their understanding of operations within the mine warfare community.
Mine warfare trainees blow it out of the water
Members of HMAS Gascoyne’s ship’s company conduct mine warfare serials
(above) and (inset) another member of her crew launches a mine disposal vessel during the sea week in support of the mine warfare
officer’s course.
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23SPORTMarch 7, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS
PO Dannielle Humphries, second from left, RAF officer Wing Commander Claire Collis, centre, and Australian Army soldier LCPL Ashley Watts, second from right, made the podium for giant slalom at the RAF competition in Saalbach, Austria.
CAPT Megan McDermott
EXERCISE Alpine Challenge 2019 started with record-breaking snowfalls in the Austrian Alps and ended with the ADF team exceeding expecta-tions with multiple podium finishes in Meribel, France.
Following the Royal Air Force (RAF) competition from January 11-23 in Saalbach, Austria, the Alpine Challenge wrapped up on February 9 after an intense five days involving 150 of the best UK Armed Forces and ADF competitors across four snows-ports disciplines.
The combined services team had a strong showing in both competitions, making multiple podium finishes in the RAF competition, while Army CAPT Elizabeth Lambert made histo-ry as the first Australian to be named overall female alpine champion in the UK inter-service competition.
Medalling against the British was a “good feeling” for PO Dannielle Humphries, who placed third in the snowboarding giant slalom event of the RAF competition.
“I was quite surprised to get third as it’s not usually my best event,” PO Humphries said.
“The Brits were very welcoming and loved having us over there as it mixed up their competition. The atmosphere was unreal, particularly during our night final, where we were battling it out for the podium on an Olympic course that was steep, icy and very fast.
“They have some pretty good riders, so it was great to see how we stacked up against tough competition.
“The competition was definitely a step up from what we’re used to and the snow was incredible compared to what we get in Australia.”
PO Humphries’ efforts in the giant slalom helped set the ADF snowboard team up for a dominating lead in the RAF competition, going on to win best snowboarding team by a comfort-able 10 points.
Representing the skiers on the podium was LCDR Shannon Godfrey, who placed third in the slalom event.
Watching both competitions with pride, ADF Snowsports patron VADM Peter Jones said the competitors were excellent ambassadors.
“Seeing the ADF competitors try to perform their best, overcoming their natural anxieties in competing on such a challenging slope would make any Australian proud,” he said.
Smooth slide to victory
“Competitors return knowing that they can conquer their fears and suc-ceed in challenging circumstances – provided they are dedicated and focused on their training as well as supporting one another and their team.”
The 2019 ADF Championships, to be held at Perisher Ski Resort in NSW from September 2-6, may see a British competitor contesting the best overall skier/snowboarder award for the first time.
– Additional reporting CPL Sebastian Beurich
An ADF member during training for the mens snowboard slopestyle event at championships.Photos: Nicholas Egan
League teams ready for battleCPL Sebastian Beurich
A LACK of opposition hasn’t stopped Navy’s Rugby League teams from working hard during the ADF inter-service Rugby Championships.
Both the women’s and men’s teams were in Sydney for the competition, which ran until March 5.
Tridents captain LS Daniel Harris said their first game was scrappy, but hard fought.
“The boys did really well, but Air Force ended up coming through in the end,” LS Harris said. “We’ve got about 50 per cent of the team who toured the UK last year, which is really good, we have some experience there, but we’ve also got some new blood.”
At the time of going to print, Captain of the wom-en’s team LSPTI Shannon Evans said the team was looking forward to their first game.
“There are a lot of fresh faces, but the girls are enthusiastic and have shown some good natural skills throughout training,” LS Evans said.
Full coverage of the championships will be in the next edition of Navy News.
PO Dannielle Humphries competes in boardercross at the UK Armed Forces Inter-Services Snowsports Championships in Meribel, France. Photo: Nicholas Egan
Volume 62, No. 3, March 7, 2019
SPORT
Strong showing at international comp
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BEST IN SNOW
