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long loop of the Western Pacific , a visit to Darwin to re
Australianise and vote in the 2016 Federal election, prior her
final run down the west coast of Australia to FBW, home for
the approx 60 sailors and officers.
This extended period of high level activity has enabled Rankin
to qualify numerous sailors and officers as submariners
and additionally provide the opportunity for on the job
continuation training for many others. Rankin’s role as one
of the submarines deploying into the Indo-Pacific Theatre
in 2016 underscores a resurgent Submarine Force now
comprising five boats in service with the Fleet Commander.
This busy program and time away has been challenging for
the crew as well as families. A controlled and steady rotation
of Rankin’s personnel has provided opportunity for respite
as well as enabling members to spend some time with
family especially over the Christmas period. This approach
contributed to the success of this deployment as well as
assisting in maintaining high levels of morale.
Commanding Officer HMAS Rankin, CMDR Doug Theobald,
commented on the performance of the crew during this
expended period. “There have been trying times, as to be
expected during long periods away from home, but the team
jelled and performed exceptionally throughout the duration”
he said.
Captain Matt Buckley, CSC, said “This has been the longest
single deployment for a Collins Class submarine and
Rankin has achieved all key mission objectives, including
a number of firsts for Navy. I am extremely proud of the
efforts of Rankin’s CO and ship’s company and am very
thankful for the enduring support of their family and friends.
This deployment underscores the ongoing success of our
Submarine Enterprise and our capacity to deliver a potent
national strategic deterrent capability.”•
SMNMTSM Jarrod Ellicott is welcomed home by his girlfriend Emily and his family,
who had flown over from the east coast for his return.
CPO Robert Stewart is welcomed home by his wife Peta and children, Ailee (6),
Matthew (4) and Ashlyn (6 months),
Top of the
“Engineering” Class
The Australian Fleet Awards
are presented annually to the
highest performing Fleet Units,
Establishments and Flights
across a variety of disciplines
and skills. The Australia Cup
is awarded to the Fleet Unit
that has achieved the highest
standard of Marine Engineering
efficient and serviceability.
‘The 2015 recipient is
HMAS Sheean’
Being the first of our boats
to receive this award, the
inscription reads:
“HMAS Sheean has demonstrated a highly proactive and innovative approach to operational
platform systems engineering throughout 2015. Their preparation for a challenging Indian
Ocean Deployment was meticulous with ship’s staff working collaboratively with Submarine
Enterprise partners over the course of the intermediate docking to deliver the highest levels
of material readiness. Throughout their deployment the Engineering Department actively
managed a number of significant defects through sound practices to assure platform
system capability in the area of operations. A consistent forward leaning and innovative
team, the achievements of HMAS Sheean are commendable and in keeping with the finest
traditions of the Royal Australian Navy.”
Congratulations Sheean.•
RADM S Mayer (FC), LCDR S Miller (MEO) and CPOMTSM W Preston
(DMEO) after presentation of Australia Cup onboard HMAS Sheean
whilst in Gage Roads off Fremantle, April 2016.
FROM THE BOATS
The Award Certificate.
HMAS Rankin comes along side Diamantina Pier. HMAS Sheean Marine Engineering Department upon return to Australia 2015.
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EDITION 2, 2016 EDITION 2, 2016