FFG03 turns big 20

Sydney’s Commanding Officer and the youngest member of the ship’s company SMNCIS Lavinia Humphries cut the cake to celebrate the ship’s birthday.

CMDR Van Balen promoted SMNCK Keillor to Able Seaman during Sydney’s 20th birthday celebrations last month.

HMAS Sydney (CMDR Michael Van Balen), FFG 03, celebrated her 20th birthday late last month.

After marching away from the Maritime Commander’s Divisions at Fleet Base East, Sydney’s ship’s company, led by CMDR Van Balen, gathered on the wharf to celebrate her birthday.

Sydney was commissioned on January 28, 1983.

In good spirits, the ship’s company marked the milestone by enjoying an impressive spread of cakes, biscuits and “brew”.

CMDR Van Balen and SMNCIS Lavinia Humphries cut the birthday cake.

The commanding officer also formally promoted a number of personnel including ABCK Keillor.

• By LEUT Simon Carroll

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