Albatross stage II opens

The CO HMAS Albatross CAPT Tim Barrett meets RADM Gates as he arrives to open the centre. Photo by LSPH Brad Fullerton.

MC AUST, RADM Raydon Gates officially opened the new $47M state-of-the-art facilities at HMAS Albatross on September 17.

“The redevelopment has brought a new emphasis to the importance of the Fleet Air Arm,” RADM Gates said.

The work included a helicopter underwater escape trainer, fitness centre, helicopter control facility, aircraft wash facility, extension to Taxiway B, a visiting military aircraft hardstand, an ordnance loading area and a BAK 14 arrester system.

As part of the official opening POPT Scott Harriden and LSPT Andrew Corbett with fellow team members gave an impressive display of an aerobic work-out using cutlasses and military small arms in the new gymnasium.

A helicopter ditching drill simulation was held in the 20m indoor pool of the new Naval Aviation Sea Survival Centre.

LSCD Michael Voytas and his diving team from AUSCDTONE at HMAS Waterhen provided the safety supervision for the personnel from 723 Squadron undergoing the ditching training.

“The training had previously been conducted at West Sale in Victoria,” said CMDR Steven Elms, Training Authority Aviation.

“This new centre saves resources, money, people and time as it is in a location where most of the customers are.”

Naval CHAP John Connelly, who quoted from St Paul saying that we should be ready to run a race at any time, gave the blessing.

COMAUSNAVAIRGP, CDRE Keith Eames attended the official opening with CDRE Graham Sloper (Ret’d) former CO Albatross, Councillor Greg Watson Mayor of Shoalhaven City Council and CAPT Tim Barrett CO HMAS Albatross.

“The redevelopment is well worth it,” said CAPT Barrett. “It has provided us with first class services and amenities.”

• By LCDR Mick Gallagher
  

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