The MC RADM Geoff Smith visited HMAS Anzac during the Bombing of Darwin 60th anniversary commemorations in February. He congratulated the ships' companies of both HMAS Anzac and the hydrographic ship (HS) HMAS Melville for the excellent work that they had undertaken on OP RELEX to the North of Australia. In particular he congratulated the ship's company of HMAS Melville, for carrying out a "warship" task that is unusual for a hydrographic vessel. He pointed out to the ship's company that they had carried out this task in the best traditions of the Navy. They showed that they were an intrinsic part of the Royal Australian Navy and could carry out any task assigned to them.

RADM Smith also spoke of the hardship that the sailors experience, given the nature of the task and the fact that they were away from family and friends for a considerable period of time. He also acknowledged that the Navy was fully occupied and that the personnel would continue to be away from home for extended periods of time in the foreseeable future. He congratulated all members of the Ships' companies for their professionalism and dedication in protecting the shores of Australia.

More importantly he congratulated the Anzac for its magnificent achievement in winning a series of awards culminating in winning the Gloucester Cup for the best ship in the Royal Australian Navy, which will be presented in the near future. Also during the visit he formally presented awards to ABRO Hayes the Australian Service Medal for duty on HMAS Tobruk in the Solomon Islands and Defence Long Service Medals [15 years] to CMDR Lali Bradley and POET Spencer.

By MAJ Chris Delaney