On the road again

LEUT Paul Singer directs HMAS Canberra’s Seahawk for a transfer of personnel onboard Launceston during her shakedown.

Photo: LSMT K. McIntosh

By MIDN Danny

Redondo It’s been a long road back for the officers and crew of HMAS Launceston (LCDR Paul Koerber) following a five month maintenance period at Darwin Ship Repair and Engineering (DSRE).

Despite being well rested and refreshed, the crew were eager to return to sea and get on with the job.

Finally the months of endless planning, training and preparation came to fruition when on August 4, HMAS Launceston sailed proudly from Darwin Naval Base to
commence her shakedown period prior to the impending work-up and MRE.

A highlight during the shakedown was the conduct of Helicopter Transfer training with HMAS Canberra (CMDR Ray Leggatt), providing one lucky Launceston member a rare opportunity for a transfer in an S-70B Seahawk.

In the finest traditions of HMAS Launceston, the crew responded to the challenges they faced during the work-up period with both dedication and determination.

The ship’s motto of “Progress with Prudence” was elementary in the success of the training period, progressing significantly throughout the process.

On August 20, the crew of HMAS Launceston were deemed mission ready having successfully passed her MRE and completing a long and challenging period.

As ever, new challenges always await, yet we know the Tassie Devil is well and truly back in business.

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