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Crew
from HMAS Canberra farewell CMDR Stuart Mayer by rowing
him ashore in a wooden-hulled whaler.
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Commander
Stuart Campbell Mayer, departed HMAS Canberra for the last time
in traditional naval fashion when he was rowed ashore in a 24-foot
wooden-hulled whaler on loan from TS Perth.
In daunting conditions with winds gusting up to 50 knots and a
sharp two-metre swell running, the department heads and warfare
officers showed true Canberra grit and resolve in a valiant effort
to row CMDR Mayer from the ship to the Captains’ Landing
at Fleet Base West.
As CMDR Mayer departed HMAS Canberra for the last time, he was
greeted with a Cheer Ship from the ship’s company, full ceremonial
boat drill and dogged determination from an enthusiastic whaler
crew ready to test its mettle against the raging seas in Cockburn
Sound.
With their CO standing resolutely in the bow and the strains of
Jessie’s Girl in their ears, the oarsmen dug in to pull their
boat clear of the shipside.
Despite the sea and swell being against them, they expertly rounded
Parkes Wharf into the calmer waters at Captains’ Landing,
pulling alongside with honed seamanship skills.
Giving one final salute to his trusted crew, CO Mayer strode purposefully
up the wharf to face the challenges of the future.
