Sirius supply mode

CLOSE TO YOU (above): HMAS Sirius and HMAS Toowoomba conducting a Replenishment at Sea (RAS) in the Western Australian Exercise area. It was the first RAS for Sirius since commissioning in September. WIDE BODY (bottom): HMAS Sirius comes alongside Fleet Base West at HMAS Stirling. Photos: ABPH Joanne Edwards and ABPH Quentin Mushins

Volume 49, No. 21, November 16, 2006

By ASLT Kerryn Barnes and CPOSN Rob Harvey

HMAS Sirius (CMDR Tim Crawford) achieved a significant milestone late last month when she successfully completed her first Replenishment at Sea (RAS), supplying fuel to HMAS Toowoomba (CMDR Jamie Hatcher).

Prior to passing lines, Toowoomba conducted RAS approaches to test the interaction caused between two vessels in close proximity.

The approach is an inherently dangerous period for both ships and the excitement on the bridge was evident when personnel were able to identify faces on the bridge wing of Toowoomba.

Meanwhile, the RAS team was standing by, waiting to pass lines. Once approval was given it was all systems go.

Gunner, ABBM Michael McKee, did Sirius proud, successfully passing the gunline across on the very first attempt. Within minutes the distance line, messenger and span wire were all in place.

The RAS control room was a hive of activity with Sirius’ Marine Technicians, various contractors and Sea Training Group all jostling for the best view of the evolution.

CPOSN Rob Harvey described being one of the first winch drivers for the inaugural RAS as “a great thrill”.
Despite completing dry hook-ups with Westralia, there was still a lot of uncertainty.

But demonstrating the competence and professionalism of Sirius’ crew, the evolution was conducted successfully and safely. Sirius and Toowoomba were connected for one hour and 40 minutes.

In moderate seas, with a fresh breeze, Toowoomba was able to maintain station comfortably and so deliberately adjusted station to test the rig which responded smoothly.

Fifteen tonnes of F76 was transferred and over coming days another three replenishments continued to test the equipment and personnel, proving that Sirius is one step closer to fulfilling her duty to “Serve and Provide”.

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