Success gives a special greeting to Kanimbla

By LEUT Peter Case

Members of HMAS Success’ ships company give voice to the old mariners greeting, a Cheer Ship.

On July 15, the officers and sailors of HMAS Success (CMDR Mark McIntosh) greeted HMAS Kanimbla (CMDR David McC­ourt) and her embarked family and friends.

The CO led the ship’s company in a traditional “Cheer Ship” as the two ships rendezvoused northeast of Fraser Island, prior to conducting Officer of the Watch manoeuvres.

This ancient method of greeting between mariners is a form of salute, based upon making the ship vulnerable.

To have the ship’s company clearly visible on deck, or in the days of sail, aloft on the yards, meant that the guns were not manned.

Prior to the Cheer Ship, Success’ ship’s company gave Kanimbla a more contemorary greeting, a Mexican wave.
The Cheer Ship was a novel break for Success’ crew as the Battle Tanker made her way up the east coast in preparation for a hectic period during Exercises Kakadu and Crocodile.

During the exercises, the full force-multiplying role of Success was in action, incorporating multi-station, multi-load (fuel, water, AVGAS and stores) replenishments.

.