VADM Shackleton addresses a large gathering of Navy people during his tour.

The Chief of Navy, VADM David Shackleton, has met face-to-face with more than 5,200 sailors, officers and Navy civilians, visiting Cairns, Darwin, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle and Nowra.

The visits were a key part of keeping Navy people and civilians informed about what has been happening since July last year and further changes in which they can expect to actively participate.

One of CN's key messages was his commitment to leading the Navy and his intention to actively involve as many Navy people as possible in the change program.

"Change is possible. Frankly, we ought to take the opportunities that change gives us and make it work for us," VADM Shackleton said.

"I am on watch - I have the ship. Whilst I am in charge I am fully committed to this change program; it is our Navy, yours and mine. It's not just about me - we all play a part in this. I need and will ask for your involvement," he said.

Helping CN with the roadshow was the Directorate of Navy Change Management (DNCM), which followed up his presentations with focus groups at HMA Ships CAIRNS, KUTTABUL, ALBATROSS, CERBERUS, and WARRAMUNGA to make sure that his message was understood.

Feedback from officers, sailors and civilians was used immediately to adapt CN's final roadshow presentations in Victoria.
"I don't know who was involved in the focus groups, as all input was anonymous, but you know who you are and I want to thank you for your time, involvement and honesty," CN said.

" What you told me through those groups has been heard and incorporated into my presentations and will be used in future communications by my admirals and myself so thank you.

"We have a Navy to fight and win at sea, to assist in maintaining our sovereignty and secure our region. To do this we have a budget; however, our budget must be spent wisely and be supported by highly motivated and professional Navy people.

"I know we have more work to do on the people front having listened to what your concerns and issues are. I am committing myself, CNSAC (Chief of Navy Senior Advisory Committee) and our eventual successor to getting it right.

"I will be coming back to you in the New Year and asking for your active involvement as we work towards the Navy Symposium in the mid-2001. By then, we will have serious runs on the board and be able to focus on getting where we need to be - A Navy with a worldwide reputation for excellence as a sea power; well equipped, professional team of highly motivated quality people, serving Australia with honour, supported by a nation proud of its Navy," VADM Shackleton said.