Science Festival says thanks for assistance July 24, 2000 The Navy's participation in the Australian Science Festival in Canberra earlier this year has been gratefully acknowledged by the organisers. In a letter to the CN, VADM David Shackleton, the executive director of the Australian Science Festival Ltd, Mary-Anne Waldren, said she was also writing to the Minister for Defence, Mr John Moore, to express her gratitude. "At the launch of the Australian Science Festival and its blockbuster event, the Bayer Solar and Advanced-Technology Boat Race, the Navy provided a Seahawk helicopter and a team of clearance divers," Ms Waldren said. "The Seahawk was involved in bringing celebrities to the launch and the boat race, and then it was open to the public in support of the Defence Force Recruiting Organisation. "We have received considerable favourable comment from members of the public who came to the boat race and saw the helicopter and the Clearance Diver display. "The Navy certainly put on a spectacular show for the Canberra community." Ms Waldren said that working with Navy has been a pleasure. "The Seahawk Squadron involved in the event, 816 Squadron, and the Clearance Diving Team from Sydney were extremely professional, competent and helpful," she added. "I would also like to highlight the dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism displayed by Defence Force Recruiting Organisation Public Relations Manager Toni McLennan, who did a fantastic job in ensuring the success of the Navy's involvement. "Once again, I would like to thank the Navy for their support of this significant Australian event and for their professional behaviour and spectacular performances at the launch and the boat race."