By
SBLT Chris Mills
HMAS
Tobruk’s renowned can-do attitude came to the fore when a remote
coastal landing was in jeopardy last month because of ill-tempered
tides.
Tobruk (CMDR Nick Bramwell) had transported elements of the Army’s
Brisbane-based 21st Construction Squadron to the Cape York community
of Bamaga as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to the
ATSIC Army Community Assistance Program.
The aim of this year’s project is to provide improved infrastructure
to the community, including roads, water supply and sewage systems.
The planned landing by HMA Ships Balikpapan (LCDR Neal Green)
and Tarakan (LEUT Alan Wilmore) and two Army LCM 8 landing craft
appeared to be in jeopardy when Tobruk arrived, as high tidal
streams were preventing the craft from offloading via the town’s
boat ramp.
Tobruk’s and the LCHs’ determination to succeed showed through
when an alternate landing site was found. Without an assigned
Amphibious Beach Team, alternatives for the usual beach matting
employed for soft sand landings were needed.
Members of the ship’s company were put ashore with shot mats and
practice shoring to build a suitable trackway so heavy earthmoving
equipment and vehicles could be landed.
Tobruk’s embarked Sea King helicopter also took part in the operation,
utilising its heavy lift capability to land 10 Army Land Rovers
and trailers.
The helicopter operations caused much excitement in the local
school.
