HAWKESBURY goes on the slip

HAWKESBURY goes on the slip

December 11, 2000

HAWKESBURY on the slip

HMAS HAWKESBURY slipped into the familiar waters of Newcastle harbour in October. She had spent the previous month on the slip in Australian Defence Industries (ADI) Newcastle dockyards undergoing contractual and warranty work.

Virtually every area on HAWKESBURY will receive attention during this maintenance period - from her variable depth sonar to each of her three auxiliary propulsion units.

While the work goes on HAWKESBURY's ship's company has also been busy, conducting
daily damage control training exercises, catching up on many pre-requisite training courses and conducting regular physical training.

Intensive

Such an intensive period of work will result in both HAWKESBURY and her personnel returning to action better than ever and fully prepared for what lies ahead, namely arduous sea trials off the Newcastle coast followed by a return to Sydney.

She can then expect a work-up on route to Melbourne before Shakedowns and OREs commence in the EAXA.

It is then expected that HAWKESBURY will make her second overseas deployment within 12 months when she returns to South East Asian Waters to conduct Mine Countermeasure Operations with several neighbouring nations.

Prior to this HAWKESBURY's crew will enjoy some well deserved rest and relaxation over the Christmas period.