Aboard the Orient Express

By LCDR Grant McLennan, LEUT Stuart Loynes and SBLT Brad Francis Photos: LSPH Philip (Rex) Hunt

Climbing the Great Wall of China, sailing down the Yangtze River and taking part in the World Expo in Japan have all been recent highlights for the crew of HMAS Canberra.

Canberra’s final trip before decommissioning in November has been a mixture of work, cross cultural exchanges and enjoyment.

The ship began her Asian deployment in Singapore, after berthing on the northern side of the island on March 25.

After the usual bustle of activity that occurs every time a ship arrives in port, the crew turned their attention to exploring the delights of Singapore.

This included hunting for bargains in the clothing and electrical stores, relaxing in the city at Boat Quay and Clark Quay (places renowned for their small restaurants, eateries and pubs), visiting the famous Singapore Zoo and taking in the historical sights.

Moving on to China, Canberra became the first Australian ship ever to visit Zhangjiang, the home of the sizeable South Sea Fleet.

The ship completed the last 100 nautical miles of its passage from Singapore in company with the People’s Liberation Army – Navy (PLA-N) ship Yichang. Canberra spent four days alongside in the port city.

One of the highlights was an evening hosted by the PLA-N, where traditional Chinese and Australian songs were sung by Canberra’s ships company and PLA-N personnel.

Canberra repaid the hospitality the following night by hosting a cocktail party.

Chinese Naval Officers and diplomatic staff attended Navy’s traditional Ceremonial Sunset, where a six-man guard was paraded and volleys of blank cartridges were fired on conclusion. A sports morning was also held where Canberra’s team faced off against a Chinese South Sea Fleet team in tug-o-war and basketball with both sides putting in a spirited effort, before the Chinese emerged as the winners in both competitions. Canberra then departed in company with PLA-N Yichang, which escorted her the first 100 nautical miles of her journey to Shanghai.

It was a long and difficult passage down the Yangtze and Huangpu Rivers for Canberra.

At one stage there was approximately 200 vessels within 100m of HMAS Canberra, which gave the Commanding Officer (CMDR Ray Leggatt) and the navigator (LEUT Steven McCracken) some exciting moments.

Once Canberra berthed in Shanghai, the ship’s company was able to enjoy the hospitality of the Chinese Navy (PLA-N) at a welcoming reception at the Shanghai Naval Headquarters.

The crew also enjoyed the shopping and nightlife in one of the greatest cities in the world. Personnel also had the opportunity to tour the PLA-N guided missile destroyer Qingdao.

The highlight for most of the crew, was an overnight tour to Beijing to see the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

A sporting rematch was also held, with Canberra turning the tables in the tug-of-war.

Goodwill exercises were held with Qingdao, before Canberra left China for Japan.

April 21 was marked as Australia’s national day at the World Expo in Nagoya, Japan.

During this day, Canberra supported a number of functions, and provided an honour guard for Australian Prime Minister, John Howard..

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