The ship's company mans HMAS Diamantina. Photo by ABPH Bill Louys.

As with all ceremonial a weather report should begin the story. Saturday May 4 did dawn bright and sunny. The day before was very grim and wet as the ship's company went through their paces in rehearsal.

A day of great emotion for all concerned, how could it be otherwise, after sea trials and workups all under the hawk eye of Maritime Command? CO LCDR Michael Rothwell taking several deep breaths as he thanked everyone for their intense effort.

The blessing of Almighty God was called down on the vessel in the Service, treble insurance with three chaplains taking part. SMNMUSN Tracy Bourke leading the Naval Hymn and National Anthem accompanied by RAN Band-Sydney under LEUT Paul Cottier.

Across the crowd and through the wheeling gulls, the command, "Guard general salute, present..." all standing and saluting, the commissioning pennant broke on the highest hoist - high above the crowd. To fly all the life of HMAS Diamantina in the Royal Australian Navy.

CN, VADM David Shackleton nodded and was pleased, he's done it countless times. But no commissioning is ever the same. And the guest of honour, Maureen Bryden, a little wistfull perhaps; her Dad CMDR Maurice Rose commissioned Diamantina I now his memory is nurtured and preserved in Diamantina II. A good day.

By Hugh McKenzie