On January 22 2026, a memorial service was held at the Garden Island Naval Chapel to honour the life of Rear Admiral (retd) Rothesay Swan. 

Rear Admiral Swan, who died aged 99, lived a life characterised by unwavering dedication and selfless commitment to his country. 

It was a poignant occasion attended by Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, Commanding Officer HMAS Kuttabul Captain Iain Hutchins, Navy personnel, prior shipmates and family – all commemorating his remarkable service to Navy and his enduring legacy. 

Entering the naval college as a cadet midshipman in January 1940 and graduating in 1943, he was awarded the Otto Albert memorial prize for seamanship. There were 21 other 13-year-olds in that wartime intake. 

Rear Admiral Swan’s naval career was a notable one, including active service in World War 2, the Vietnam War and in the Indonesian Confrontation. He was the last living Royal Australian Navy flag officer to serve in World War 2.

He retired from the Navy in 1983, but still contributed; first as the Director Tall Ships Australia (Bicentennial Authority) and later with the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme. 

'We will not see the likes of RADM Rothesay Swan again.'

His daughter, Jennifer Hocking, delivered the first eulogy of the service. It featured many fond memories of her childhood, including the challenging times when her father was often away for long periods at sea. 

Vice President Tall Ships Australia and New Zealand Commander (retd) Stephen Moss also delivered a eulogy. 

He recounted the enormous effort that Rear Admiral Swan put into the development and delivery as Director Tall Ships Australia, with the culmination of many tall ships in Sydney Harbour for the 1988 Bicentenary Celebrations.   

Grandsons, William and Matthew Hocking, also read two scripture readings. 

Vice Admiral Hammond delivered the service record and presentation to the family. 

“As I said at the beginning of my address, we will not see the likes of RADM Rothesay Swan again,” Vice Admiral Hammond said. 

“Perhaps then, it is appropriate to close with a quote from Rothesay about his time in Shropshire. 

“He said: 'It was all very thrilling for a young lad. But there is no doubt about it, I am very lucky. You never knew from one moment to the next if you would be alive the next day. But it’s what you’re trained for. However, there was comfort in knowing you weren’t alone, that you were part of a big family of men, mostly under the age of 40, all sharing the same experiences.'”