Westralia coronial enquiry begins

HMAS Westralia.

By SBLT Naomi Hillen

On Monday, April 28, the Coroner of Western Australia will begin his inquiry into HMAS Westralia. This inquiry is expected to continue for three weeks, closing on Friday, May 16. The Coroner will be investigating the cause of the fire and the subsequent deaths of MIDN Pelly, POMT Smith, LSMT Meek and ABMT Carroll in May 1998.

Navy will continue to work with the Coroner during the course of his inquiry.

This inquiry is separate to the Board of Inquiry (BOI) conducted in 1998 by Navy. The 1998 BOI was the first to have civilian experts on the board. This board was also open and public, with full copies of the report and recommendations available on the Navy Internet site (www.navy.gov.au).

The Coronial Inquiry is a civil process. Several Navy witnesses are expected to give evidence; these people have been notified.

The Coronial Inquiry and the publicity it will attract may be very upsetting for some people. If this is the case for you, you should approach your commanding officer for help in the first instance. You can also talk to the Defence Community Organisation, which can put you in touch with support.

DCN, RADM Rowan Moffit said: “This is also a time when we need to look out for shipmates so, if you become aware that others may be in need of support, I would be grateful if you brought that fact to the attention of their commanding officer”.

RADM Moffit has also assigned one of his staff to this issue. Should you want to bring anything to DCN’s attention during the inquiry, SBLT Naomi Hillen is available on 02-6265 3424 or by email naomi.hillen@defence.gov.au.

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