1 August 2024
While in Tonga during HMAS Choules’ deployment, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Band used the international language of music to connect with the local Tongan community via radio.
Radio Nuku’alofa 88.6FM owner and presenter Ramanlal ‘Lala’ Vallab hosted lead singer Able Seaman Musician Kelly Doddridge, bass guitarist Leading Seaman Musician Robin Murray and acoustic guitarist Leading Seaman Musician Joseph Wherrett, for their radio debuts.
“It was a great environment to connect with more locals through both the radio segment and the simultaneous Facebook live-stream, which had some great engagement,” Able Seaman Doddridge said.
Aside from performing international classics, the segment offered an opportunity for the band members to share what they love about their unique military roles.
“The RAN Band is essential in showing the public who we are, what we stand for, and getting the image of Navy out there to both Australia and our international friends, including in the Pacific region,” Able Seaman Doddridge said.
“It’s an unbeatable option; there aren’t many chances to earn a competitive, full-time salary as a musician, and we get to travel the world, and have awesome experiences like this one.”
After a morning jamming with 88.6FM, the RAN Band performed at a local community function attended by locals and visiting personnel from other navies.
Choules’ south-west Pacific regional deployment was part of Australia’s effort to maintain a near continual presence in the Pacific and wider Indo-Pacific region to strengthen cooperation and relationships with local partner nations.
