DARWIN's crew

HMAS DARWIN (CMDR Peter. LOCKWOOD) has begun the new millennium as she left the last one - with the energy, enthusiasm and professionalism that she has become renown for, especially during her tour of duty in East Timor.

DARWIN became the first ship to conduct RASAPS, dry hookups and finally a RAS with WESTRALIA after the oilers extended period alongside.

Both DARWIN and WESTRALIA sailed for a week of exercises in the WAXA.

This was the first time that DARWIN had sailed since her return journey from East Timor and rescue of stricken sailors off Shark Bay.

Although she had conducted numerous replenishments with many different ships during the INTERFET operations, it was a chance for all ship's company to shake off the cobwebs.

Prior to sailing for FBE, DARWIN was rewarded for her continued hard work and effort with the award of the Voyager Trophy and Australia Cup by Maritime Commander Australia - the Australia Cup for the best Marine Engineering Department and the Voyager Trophy for the best ASW ship.
DARWIN was also runner up for the Fleet Damage Control and Food Services awards.