Parra names its RHIBs

By Graham Davis

The winners of HMAS Parramatta’s “name the RHIBs competition”, Bethany Skinner (left) and Asem Wardak (right) stand in the bow of the boats they christened.

Photo: ABPH Yuri Ramsey

Introducing Burramatta and Aroona.

They are the names for the high speed rigid hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) carried by the City of Parramatta’s “own” warship, HMAS Parramatta.

The 3,400 tonne Anzac Class frigate, one of ten to be built for the Australian and New Zealand navies, was commissioned last year and is based at Fleet Base East in Sydney.

After her commissioning her commanding officer, CMDR Mike Noonan led a Freedom of Entry parade through the streets of the City.

Combined with this activity was a Spring Fair, a component of which was an invitation to local schools to name the two RHIBs.

Judging has been completed and the winners named.

Bethany Skinner, 9, from Granville came up with the name Burramatta the Aboriginal name for Parramatta.

Six-year-old Asem Wardak of Westmead came up with Aroona (clear water) for the second craft.

Earlier this month, accompanied by their families, the students went to HMAS Parramatta and formerly christened the craft by withdrawing pennants from across their names.

The youngsters then went for a ride on the Harbour.

RHIBs are used by warships for boardings, transfer of personnel and rescues.

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