Navy's most senior sailor appointment, Warrant Officer of the Navy (WO-N), changed hands for the 11th time during a ceremony in Canberra on July 10.

In accepting the ‘weight’ of leadership from outgoing WO-N Andrew ‘Bert’ Bertoncin, incoming WO-N Cheryl Collins acknowledged her predecessor’s contribution and thanked him for his leadership and advocacy on behalf of Navy's sailors.  

"You have led with authenticity and purpose, and you have demonstrated what it means to serve with humility and conviction," WO-N Collins said.

"I am honoured to build upon the strong foundation you have established." 

WO-N Collins joined the Navy in 1996 as a combat systems operator, and has served at sea, ashore and in joint and multinational headquarters throughout her career. She was promoted to warrant officer in 2012.

WO-N Collins said her new role required the trust of sailors and a commitment to serve them with integrity, courage and humility. 

She pledged to remain visible and approachable, ensure sailors' voices were heard, uphold Navy's standards and traditions, and foster a culture of respect, professionalism and accountability. 

"My promise is simple. I will listen," she said.

"I will be visible, approachable and authentic, ensuring the voices of our sailors are heard and respected. 

"Above all, I will never forget that this role exists to represent our people."