Midshipman’s Dirk

One of the most valued awards a young RAN engineering officer can receive is the ADI Ltd prize, the Midshipman’s Dirk. The most recent recipient of the award is LEUT Daniel Syrett. He received it in recognition of his performance as the most outstanding officer in the 2002/03 Weapons Electrical Application Course at HMAS Cerberus. The General Manager Marine for ADI, Mr Peter Simmons, presented the dirk to LEUT Syrett before a group of senior naval engineers at the Engineering Advisory Council meeting at Maritime Headquarters. LEUT Syrett recently finished his Weapons Electrical Engineering Officer certificate of competence in HMAS Stuart. He is now working in the Warfare Division at MHQ. ADI has presented the dirk since 1991.

Technical prize

The Navy Technical Training Unit - West, based at Leeuwin Barracks, WA, has hosted the annual Petty Officer Marine Technical Shaun Smith Perpetual Shield. The Petty Officer Smith Shield is awarded to the best Marine Technician trainee to undertake Advanced Technical Training at NTTU each year. It is named in honour of POMT Shaun Smith who tragically lost his life during the fire onboard HMAS Westralia on May 5, 1998. The 2003 award winner was POMT(M) Jason Kuczma of HMAS Westralia. PO Kuczma was selected not only for his outstanding academic results but his exemplary personal attributes. His instructors emphasised his diligence, teamwork and professionalism during the selection process. At PO Kuczma’s presentation ceremony were PO Smith’s parents, Mr Brian and Mrs Pam Smith, the CO of HMAS Westralia, CMDR Peter Stafford, OC of Leeuwin Barracks, LTCOL Andy McMartin, and the OIC NTTU-W, LCDR John Starr. Mr Smith said he was pleased that his son’s memory could be commemorated in a positive and constructive manner.

Waterhen opens its doors

HMAS Waterhen has hosted an open day for families of the ship’s company and the local North Sydney community. The open day gave an opportunity for people to gain an insight into the nature of operations at the base. More than 340 members of the public passed through the gates between 10.30am and 2pm, the large number encouraged by unseasonally warm weather. They were treated to numerous exhibitions and activities, including HMAS Yarra’s displays of the Stonefish Exercise Mine, 30mm Gun Trainer, the Huon Class Combat Systems Trainer and displays from FIMA-Waterhen. Visitors were urged to watch a video on the history and roles of HMAS Waterhen. Historical material was also on display. The Sydney detachment of the Royal Australian Navy Band entertained the visitors and FLSE-Waterhen turned on a sausage sizzle.

Hydrographers recognised

Members of the Australian Hydrographic Office have been honoured with commendations from the out-going Maritime Commander, RADM Raydon Gates. The HMFEG’s Deployable Survey Unit was presented with a MC’s Unit Commendation for sterling service in support of Operation Anode in the Solomon Islands. The small team demonstrated a high degree of dedication and adaptability in important hydrographic survey activities, often during difficult and demanding conditions. HODSU was able to compile a provisional navigational chart enabling TG 635 greater freedom of manoeuvre and safety. HODSU raised the profile of the Australian Hydrographic Service’s ability to effect a rapid environmental assessment capability to commanders in the field. Members were also awarded their ASMs for service in the Solomon Islands.

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