Feb-Mar 2014, Issue 177 - Royal New Zealand Navy

Transcription

issue 177 february/march 2014
TE MANA ON
PATROL
NAVY AT
WAITANGI
SAILOR OF THE
YEAR
T e T a u a M o a n a – w a r r i o r s o f t h eour people
sea
1
contents
NAVY TODAY ISSUE 177 2014
DIRECTORY
Published to entertain, inform and inspire
serving members of the RNZN.
Navy Today is the official newsletter for
personnel and friends of the Royal New
Zealand Navy, produced by the Defence
Communications Group, Wellington, Navy
Today is now in its eighteenth year of
publication.
Views expressed in Navy Today are not
necessarily those of the RNZN or the NZDF.
07
Contributions are welcomed. Submit copy
or letters for publication in Microsoft Word,
on CD or emailed. Articles about 300 words,
digital photos at least 200dpi.
To request reprints, please contact the Editor.
COPY DEADLINES FOR NT
5PM AS FOLLOWS:
NT 178 April issue
15 March
Subject to change.
EDITOR:
David McLoughlin
Defence Communications Group
HQ NZ Defence Force
Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand
P: (04) 496 0219 F: (04) 496 0290
E: [email protected]
28
12
DESIGN & LAYOUT:
PRINT:
As part of a Government multi-agency
initiative the NZDF has changed to a single
provider for all of its Print Services.
This magazine is now printed by Blue Star.
Feedback to [email protected] on
the quality of this publication is welcomed.
04 NAVY MAKES A SPLASH AT WAITANGI
07
08 RAIN GOES AWAY FOR DIVISIONS
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TE MANA IN LAST STAGE OF PIRACY
PATROL
15
NAVY TRAINING SAVES HEART ATTACK
VICTIM
17
DIVE TEAM POOL PHOTO BECOMES A HIT
ENQUIRIES TO:
P: (04) 496 0270 F: (04) 496 0290
Devonport Naval Base
LT CDR Vicki Rendall
P: (09) 445 5002 F: (09) 445 5014
Director Defence Communications Group
P: (04) 496 0299 F: (04) 496 0290
Defence Careers:
P: 0800 1FORCE (0800 136 723)
www.defencecareers.mil.nz
SAILOR OF THE YEAR LPTI LOU THYNE
24 MEET THE NEW CDF
26
CHAMPION OF THE NAVY
CHANGING ADDRESS?
To join or leave our mailing list,
please contact:
E: [email protected]
2
mcc log
28 OTAGO’S BREATHTAKING ANTARCTIC
VOYAGE
cover image:
Members of HMNZS TE MANA’s
Boarding Party on the ship’s flight deck
off the Somali coast, with the ship’s
Seasprite helicopter in the overwatch
position above them. This is the
boarding team and flight crew involved
in boarding operations during OP TIKI
VI. Page 12.
Chief of Navy Rear Admiral J.R.Steer, onzm
yours aye
E
ven this early in 2014 we have achieved a number of
significant milestones. Navy Divisions on 17 January was a
credit to everyone involved. It is just so wonderful to see our
Navy parading before our Commander in Chief, His Excellency the
Governor General, and your friends and families. You can all be
very proud of the turnout for Divisions (see article page 8).
As you all know 2013 was “the Year of Our People.” A year where
we worked on making things as good as we possibly could for you,
the men and women of the Royal New Zealand Navy and your
families. In 2014 we will continue this work. It will be included in
“our Year of Regeneration.”
The year 2014 will be the year where we remember our history, our
ethos, our values and what it is to be the Royal New Zealand Navy.
We are a navy that has much in common with other navies but
we have a unique history and our own traditions. In 2014 we will
regenerate this pride in being the Royal New Zealand Navy; we will
remember our past and the deeds of those who went before us.
In doing so, we will develop an even stronger base from which to
grow our Navy. After all, we do need to grow our capabilities and
our numbers.
During this year we will continue our efforts to be the best Navy
we can be. This will enable us to make the greatest contribution we
can to the outputs of the NZDF.
As part of this work, this month we will host the Western Pacific
Naval Symposium International Mine Countermeasures Exercise,
the largest international exercise the RNZN has hosted. We will
send ships offshore to the Rim of the Pacific Exercise hosted by
the United States Navy in Hawaii. We will participate in the Five
Power Defence Arrangement activities off the coasts of Malaysia
and Singapore. We will take command of an international counter-
piracy task group off the coast of Africa. We will also participate in
the many WWI commemoration activities which begin this year.
This will be an important year for our country and our Navy.
In doing so we will reassert what it is to be the Royal New Zealand
Navy. We will bring back some of our lost traditions and we will
regenerate the pride that we all need to have in our Navy, Te Taua
Moana o Aotearoa.
We also need to recommit to developing mastery of the maritime
domain. After all, we are a warfighting Navy. With the men and
women we have in the Navy today and those who will join us over
the next few years, I am confident that we can achieve these goals.
We are after all, warriors of the sea.
What won’t change this year is the requirement for us to look
after our people. That is always at the forefront of our work.
Your leadership are committed to working for the benefit of
those serving in our Navy. Every day one or many of you do
something or achieve something that makes me very proud to
be your Chief of Navy.
I write this from Waitangi where our Navy is again part of the
commemorations of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi 174
years ago (see article page 4). Next year, the 175th anniversary,
we will have a far larger presence here on what will be a very
auspicious occasion.
Thank you for your hard work and your commitment, I look forward
to working with you all this year.
Above: CN greeting Navy families and friends at Divisions.
yours aye
3
WAITANGI 2014
Navy’s Waitangi presence a
direct link to the signing of the
Treaty in 1840
The Navy again had a big presence at the
Waitangi Day commemorations in the Bay
of Islands in the days up to and including
6 February, with a 100-strong Royal Guard
of Honour, the Navy Band, the RNZN
Maori Cultural Group and the Offshore
Patrol Vessel HMNZS WELLINGTON.
4
waitangi day
Opposite page: On parade at the Navy flagstaff
Left: The Commanding Officer of HMNZS WELLINGTON, LT CDR Phil Rowe,
with Prime Minister John Key to his right and Opposition Leader David
Cunliffe to his left. Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman is next to Mr Key
Top: On guard
Above: The Maori Cultural Group performs
W
hile the rain cleared in time for Fleet Divisions in midJanuary (see page 8) it was not to be at Waitangi, when
the main celebrations took place in driving rain which,
however, did little to dampen the spirits of those in attendance.
The Navy’s centrality to commemorations at Waitangi dates directly
to 1840, when Captain William Hobson RN arrived in the Royal
Navy frigate HMS HERALD to negotiate what became known as
the Treaty of Waitangi with the assembled local chiefs, culminating
with the signing of the treaty on 6 February, making New Zealand a
British colony and Hobson the colony’s Lieutenant Governor.
After the signing, HERALD took a copy of the treaty to other
coastal parts of the country to gather further signatures.
Thus WELLINGTON’s anchoring just off the Treaty Grounds
and the big naval flagstaff there symbolically represented HMS
HERALD’s presence on the same day 174 years before.
Through the rain, WELLINGTON fired a 21-gun royal salute at noon
on Waitangi Day, another naval tradition. A warship arriving at a
port would fire its cannons until all ammunition aboard was spent,
demonstrating it was disarmed and had no hostile intent. Today all
salutes are fired with blank cartridges.
Waitangi Day as a national public holiday dates only from 1974, but
the Navy’s association with 6 February and Waitangi goes back
much further.
The first major observance there was in 1890, 50 years after
the signing of the treaty. Much later, the Navy oversaw the
construction of a flagstaff in time for a ceremony there on 6
February 1934, following the gifting of the land to the nation by the
Governor General of the day, Lord Bledisloe. HMS DUNEDIN and
HMS DIOMEDE attended, their crews taking part in the events,
including a parade.
The next official ceremony was in 1940, 100 years after the treaty
was signed. It was a subdued affair because of the outbreak of
World War II. Ship’s Company of HMS LEANDER took part, as did a
detachment of the Maori Battalion, about to depart for war. To this
day that was the only time an Army unit paraded at Waitangi.
By 1946, the flagstaff was in a poor state. The Navy offered to
replace it and maintain the new one, which the Waitangi Trust
Board, administrator of the land, gratefully accepted. Personnel
from Devonport Naval Base duly erected it in naval style.
From 6 February 1946, the Navy began holding a ceremony at the
waitangi day
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WAITANGI 2014
flagpole each year, commemorating CAPT Hobson’s service as New
Zealand’s first naval governor. It began as a solely naval ceremony
with no Maori or government input but this soon changed. From
1952 the governor general attended and from 1958 the prime
minister began attending, though not every year. Maori cultural
performances became a fixture from the mid-1950s.
In 1990—the 150th anniversary of the treaty’s signing—a Charter
was presented to the Navy, conferring on it “the right and
privilege, without further permission being obtained, of marching
at all times with drums beating, bands playing, colours flying,
bayonets fixed and swords drawn through the lands of the Tai
Tokerau, especially the Treaty Grounds.”
With next year being the 175th anniversary of the treaty’s signing,
the Navy is planning an especially big presence.
Clockwise from top left: The Navy band is always popular
HMNZS WELLINGTON arrives at Waitangi
The Governor General inspects the Guard
From left Chief of Navy RA Jack Steer, Flag Lieutenant LT Eric Chapman and
Warrant Officer of the Navy WOSA Lennie Shailes.
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waitangi day
TE MANA’s Physical Training Instructor is the Navy’s
Sailor of the Year
By David McLoughlin, Editor, Navy Today
The Navy’s Sailor of
the Year is usually
announced at
Divisions, but this
year, it was a notable
absence during the
Fleet Awards segment
of Divisions. Very few
people knew why.
Right: Chief of Navy RA Jack Steer congratulates
LPTI Lou Thyne on becoming Sailor of the Year.
The Commanding Officer of HMNZS TE MANA,
CDR Shane Arndell enjoys the moment.
A
few days later, on 22 January, Chief of Navy Rear Admiral
Jack Steer arrived onboard the frigate HMNZS TE MANA,
which was berthed in the port of Mumbai, India, for a short
break from her anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden. RA Steer had
made the long-planned trip from New Zealand to present members
of Ship’s Company with the Operational Service Medal for their
deployment, Operation TIKI VI.
To the delighted surprise of everyone assembled on TE MANA’s
flight deck for the medal ceremony, RA Steer unexpectedly
announced that the ship’s Physical Training Instructor, LPTI Lou
Thyne, was the Sailor of the Year for 2013.
production of a popular Christmas video for families and friends
back home.
Christchurch-raised LPTI Thyne, who attended Mairehau High
School, joined the Navy in October 2008, initially as a chef, being
posted to HMNZS CANTERBURY for a year. But her passion was
and is fitness and she was driven to become a physical training
instructor, an important role in the military. She finished the PTI
course in 2012 and shortly afterwards posted to HMNZS TE MANA.
Congratulating her, RA Steer said she brought outstanding
professionalism to her job and showed incredible commitment to
the Navy.
“I get a lot of job satisfaction out of helping people achieve their
goals and pushing them outside their boundaries to show them
that you can achieve things if you are determined and you want to,”
she said. “As I am currently on ship, my job involves management,
organising events, maintaining morale and ensuring that Ship’s
Company remain fit.
“I was very surprised,” LPTI Thyne said afterwards. “It came
completely out of left field for me. I am immensely proud to have
been awarded Sailor of the Year.”
“This deployment is new ground especially for me because I am a
relatively young PTI. I love the challenge; there’s only one of me
onboard so I have to be very self-reliant and motivated.”
Her award was in recognition of her outstanding work aboard TE
MANA during the ship’s deployments over the past 12 months to
Asia, Australia and the Gulf of Aden.
Sport and fitness are her main outside interests. “Fitness is my
passion, so sport crosses both my career and outside interests. I
am also constantly challenging myself to do new things. I love that
I can continue to learn and develop in the Navy.”
The Sailor of the Year is chosen by a selection board. This year it
was chaired by Warrant Officer of the Navy WOSA Lennie Shailes
assisted by WOMT(L) Kramer Pierce, WOMED Teresa Ikenasio,
WOPTI Peter Hodge, WOMT(P) Barry Rees, WOCH Steven Bourke,
CPOCWS Julie Campbell and POSA Ben Owens (SOTY 2010). They
considered seven strong nominations.
LPTI Thyne, 25, is the sole physical training instructor onboard
TE MANA, responsible for the fitness of 182 officers and crew. As
well as running intensive fitness programmes, she has taken part
in or overseen many other activities. They included the ship’s
participation in the Movember men’s health charity and the
When she finishes her time with TE MANA, LPTI Thyne hopes to
post ashore to the Fleet Gymnasium in HMNZS PHILOMEL to
continue her career advancement by completing her PTI Advanced
Course and pursuing tertiary study options.
“Being in the Navy allows you to be an individual in that you can
pursue your goals, advance and develop professionally and manage
your career. It’s all up to you; you just need to be determined. The
other side of the coin is that you work in a team environment and
you’re part of a larger Navy family—I enjoy that. I enjoy meeting
new people and the friends I make.”
sailor of the year
7
2014 Divisions
Showers stop just in
time for 2014 Divisions
F
riday January 17 dawned grey, windy and drizzly over
Auckland as hundreds of Navy personnel dressed in their
finest whites for the 2014 Fleet Divisions, held on the
Ngataringa sports fields behind Devonport Naval Base as the
traditional start to the Navy year.
The Reviewing Officer for the parade, the Governor General, His
Excellency LTGEN the Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, had flown out of
Wellington on a day so fine and sunny there his wife had reminded
him to put on sun block. On arrival at Auckland airport he found
the rain hosing down and asked his ADC to call the base to find out
what the wet-weather Plan B was for Divisions.
“He told me there was no Plan B,” Sir Jerry told the assembled
platoons and the crowds of Navy families, friends and local
residents who had come along to watch the event. “I decided on
my own Plan B. I would leave my speech on the Internet for you to
read,” he said to much amusement. “But the weather cleared so it
was back to Plan A.”
The last of the passing showers cleared as the 100-strong Royal
Guard of Honour, the 24 platoons and the Navy Band took their
8
divisions
places on the field. About 800 officers and ratings paraded, fewer
than last year because two major ships were away—HMNZS TE
MANA in the Gulf of Aden with 180 personnel and HMNZS OTAGO
in the Southern Ocean with 40 more.
“You will notice that today a number of the platoon commanders
are carrying either a Koikoi, a hoe, a Nuiean Spear, a Pou or a
Wahaika,” the Master of Ceremonies, LT CDR Roger Saynor, told
the guests and visitors. “These are the symbols of Command that
are awarded to the Commanding Officer of a Naval Unit and are
carried today with honour and pride.”
As Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Jack Steer arrived, he quipped
to the guests: “Thanks for making the rain go away.” VIP guests
included the Maori King, Tuheitia, Dame Trelise Cooper (patron of
the Auckland RSA) and past chiefs of Navy and veterans,
The Governor General was greeted by the Navy’s Maori Cultural
Group and took his place on the dais in front of the Guard, from
which he received a general salute. A loud blast marked the start of
the 21-gun salute. By the time it had finished and a Navy Seasprite
helicopter had flown low overhead, the parade and spectators were
shrouded in smoke from the cannons.
Fleet Awards
The MONOWAI Trophy for 2013, awarded to the Force Element
achieving the highest level of operational excellence. Awarded to
HMNZS TE MANA. As the ship is deployed, the award was accepted
by Mrs Nardi Dyke on behalf of her husband, TEM's Command
Warrant Officer WOCWS Wayne Dyke
The Commander W L J Smith Cup for 2013, awarded to the best
overall Supporting Force Element. Awarded to the Operational
Diving Team. Accepted by the team’s Commanding Officer, LT CDR
Trevor Leslie.
The RNZN Seamanship Award for 2013, awarded to a unit, group
or individual in recognition of outstanding effort to promote and
enhance good seamanship practices within the RNZN. Awarded to
LT CDR Ange Barker, Programme Manager, Reclaiming Seamanship
Excellence.
The Chatham Rose Bowl and RNZN Efficiency Pennant for 2013,
presented to the Force Element achieving the best all round result.
Awarded to HMNZS CANTERBURY. Accepted by the Commanding
Officer, CDR David Turner.
The RNZN Safety Award 2013, a new award presented to a unit,
group or individual for making a significant contribution to
improving and or maintaining safety standards that enhances the
Navy’s safety culture. Awarded to HMNZS TE KAHA. Accepted by
the Executive Officer, LT CDR Michael Peebles.
The Naval Support Command Efficiency Trophy 2013, awarded
in recognition of a unit within the Naval Support Command
whose staff consistently utilises effective processes to enable the
department to operate at a high standard of efficiency. Awarded
to the Leadership Development group. Accepted by WOMED Mike
Wiig and Mr Dave Murray.
The Naval Support Command Customer Service Trophy 2013,
awarded to the Fleet Personnel Training Organisation, which rose
magnificently to the personnel challenges of the RNZN in 2013.
Accepted by WOCSS Vince Cook and CPOWTR Andrea Dewsnap.
The Clasp to the New Zealand Armed Forces Award, for 15 years
of unblemished service. Awarded to CDR Frank Rands, now with 45
years of service.
Above: Smoke billows over the parade during the 21-gun salute
As the smoke cleared, the sun broke through the clouds and Sir
Jerry began his inspection of the Guard and the platoons. This
took about 25 minutes, with Sir Jerry stopping frequently to talk
to sailors.
Principal Navy Chaplain Wayne Toleafoa—in his last official duty
before leaving the Navy—led a prayer, followed by the GovernorGeneral taking the dais again for the march-past.
In platoon order Fleet Officers marched first, followed by Fleet
Officers and Warrant Officers, Fleet Senior Rates, two platoons of
CANTERBURY Junior Rates, TE KAHA Junior Rates, WELLINGTON
Junior Rates, ENDEAVOUR/MANAWANUI Junior Rates, Fleet
Junior Rates, Fleet Divers, Shore Support Officers, Shore Support
Officers and Warrant Officers, two platoons of Shore Support
Chief Petty Officers, Shore Support Petty Officers and nine
platoons of Shore Support Junior Rates.
Addressing the parade, RA Steer said every day one or many
Navy people did something or achieved something that made
him very proud to be their Chief of Navy.
“I mean, just last week in Devonport, a gentleman collapsed in
the street. Two quick-thinking young officers leapt to his aid and
Above (from top to bottom): Mrs Nardi Dyke receives the Monowai
Trophy on behalf of HMNZS TE MANA and her husband, TEM's
Command Warrant Officer Wayne Dyke
LT CDR Ange Barker is presented with the RNZN Seamanship Award
divisions
9
2014 Divisions
It is an opportunity, at the start of a new
year, to acknowledge and celebrate all that
the Navy and its people have accomplished
over the previous year.
The Governor General, His Excellency
LTGEN the Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae
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divisions
performed CPR. The ambulance crew advised that this saved the
man’s life. This is the type of people we have in our Navy [see
story page 15]. Today’s parade is another of those occasions. You
have all done very well today, thank you to everyone involved.”
The Governor General said seeing the Navy on parade was
always a special occasion: “It is an opportunity, at the start of a
new year, to acknowledge and celebrate all that the Navy and its
people have accomplished over the previous year. In doing so,
it provides me with an opportunity, as the Commander-in-Chief,
to recognise excellence in the Navy. It is also an opportunity
to celebrate age-old traditions, stories and anniversaries of the
Navy. It provides the basis to launch the Navy into the year
ahead.”
After his speech, Sir Jerry presented the Fleet Awards (see
separate story).
The audience, which included many parents with children, were
treated to a coffee stall, ice cream van and fairground rides, as
well as a formal morning tea in marquees on the field after the
event finished.
Opposite page (top): On the march
Opposite page (bottom left): CN talking to Dame Trelise Cooper, patron of
the Auckland RSA
Opposite page (bottom right)): The Governor General greets the Maori King
This page (top): The Governor General reviews the Guard
This page (left): Unable to be at Divisions, Ship’s Company of HMNZS
OTAGO staged their own parade on the flight deck in a bitterly cold
Southern Ocean, in sight of icebergs
divisions
11
te mana op tiki vi
Rigours at sea for TE MANA,
but still time to relax as long
deployment nears end
HMNZS TE MANA has steamed a distance almost equal to 1½ times round the world
since leaving Auckland last August for anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden and
Arabian Sea. In this article, the Commanding Officer, CDR Shane Arndell, RNZN,
describes life in a frigate on a distant deployment.
A
t the time of publication, TE MANA is on her final counterpiracy mission in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin,
assigned to Combined Task Force TF 508. In practical
terms this patrol is no different from the last two patrols TEM has
conducted with the Coalition Maritime Forces’ CTF 151, except that
tactical command and control has transferred to North Atlantic
Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the ship is operating as part of
NATO’s counter piracy mission: Operation Ocean Shield.
Our time in our Area of Operations since arriving in late
November 2013 has been both challenging and rewarding for
everyone onboard. We have faced the daily rigours of the North
East Monsoon, which has produced continual winds from the
north-east at or around 15-20 knots and, dependant on where we
are, continual seas of one to three metres while conducting the
12
TE MANA OP TIKI VI
numerous ‘approach and assist’ visits to the many Somali fishing
vessels, Indian and Yemeni dhows we have come across in our
assigned patrol areas.
The continual alert requirements for the ship and helo has at times
meant long days for everyone onboard, but not so busy that we
haven’t had the chance to take a break at sea and participate in
organised sports, personal fitness and a few barbeques—just to
remind us of the summer at home we have been missing!
The port visits in and around the Arabian Sea have provided
opportunities for everyone onboard to visit new and exciting
places, such as Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Mumbai
in India, and the Seychelles. Officially, the port visits have been
to support and strengthen New Zealand’s relationship with the
Opposite page: Ship’s Company embarked for her assignment to Combined
Maritime Forces CTF-508. We bade farewell to several of our shipmates in
Mumbai and welcomed a number of new faces to the TE MANA family as we
embarked on our NATO Operation Ocean Shield patrol.
This page (left): HMNZS TE MANA sails from Mumbai, India. Pictured in the
foreground is ASCS Christopher Wise.
This page (top right): TE MANA CO CDR Shane Arndell (left) promoting
OSCS Kirk Milner to ASCS in a ceremony onboard the ship in the Gulf of
Aden. The visiting Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, AVM Kevin Short,
helps fit the new rank slides.
This page (above): A day out on the water; the Medical Officer, CAPT Glenn
Williams.
countries visited, but for everyone onboard it has enabled most of
us to experience exciting new places with all the different cultures
and customs while taking some well deserved leave ashore.
In Mumbai we said farewell to some of our shipmates who
had sailed with us from Auckland in August 2013—all of whom
had worked extremely hard during their time in TEM. I am
extremely grateful for their commitment and comradeship, And
we welcomed 27 new shipmates who had joined to continue
with their professional training and, just as importantly, get to
experience life at sea on operations, while getting to visit new
and exciting places also.
For those who thrive on numbers to tell a story: since sailing
from New Zealand in August TEM has steamed over 30,000
miles, or equivalent to nearly 1.5 times around the world, and
has been at sea for over 130 days and counting. The helo flew a
record 54 hours in December alone, and by the time we arrive
back home in March will have flown approximately 150 hours,
most of which has been to conduct counter-piracy surveillance
up and down the coast of Somalia. In 2013 we had 28 personnel
promoted (and counting as 2014 commenced with two new
CPOs already!); 20 personnel achieved individual professional
qualifications for advancement (more to be come before we
get home); and 42 personnel were formally recognised for their
service or superior performance in the Navy and NZDF by awards
of LSGCM, GCB or Commendations. We must also not forget our
Navy’s Sailor of the Year, LPTI Louisa Thyne, who is posted to
TEM and still working hard to ensure we are all maintaining our
fitness as we start making our way towards home.
Finally, I would like to pass on my personal thanks to all the family,
friends and mates of the Navy and Air Force who have supported
everyone serving in TE MANA over the last seven months.
Without your support throughout the deployment we would
not have achieved as much as we have as a cohesive and happy
ship. You can all be very proud of your sailor or airman who has
served in TEM over the deployment, because I am, and I continue
to be amazed on a daily basis of the great things that they have
achieved to make TEM the warship that she is—New Zealand’s
Foremost Fighting Frigate! We look forward to sailing into
Auckland Harbour on 12 March after seven months. Can’t wait to
see you all again.
TE MANA OP TIKI VI
13
te mana op tiki vi
Somali fishermen feel safer
with TE MANA in sight
S
omali fishermen working off the Horn of Africa have told the
crew of Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS TE MANA
they feel more secure knowing the warship is conducting
counter-piracy operations in the region.
The frigate and its crew of 182 officers and ratings are on patrol
off the Horn of Africa supporting the Combined Maritime Forces
(CMF) multi-national naval partnership of 30 nations.
CDR Shane Arndell, Commanding Officer of TE MANA, says
the frigate’s specialist boarding teams have frequently visited
small boats operating in the area to meet local mariners, share
information on best practice and reinforce the message that piracy
does not pay.
“Somali fishermen tell us ‘it’s great to see a warship out here. We
feel safer therefore we can go out and start fishing again’,” he said.
Interaction with local fishermen is an essential part of counterpiracy operations because it reinforces to the local maritime
community that the 30-nation Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)
are committed to stamping out piracy.
“The feedback from local fishermen reflects the reality of the
success of CMF, North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, European
Union and others engaged in the region,” said CDR Arndell.
“New Zealanders can be proud of the work that TE MANA and
its officers, sailors, and airmen are doing off the coast of Somalia.
Everyone we have come across has commented favourably on our
being here. This, in turn, shows that we are achieving the United
Nations mandate to disrupt piracy at sea,” he said.
The frigate carries specialist equipment and personnel, including
boarding teams and rigid hull inflatable boats, to allow her
to carry out her counter-piracy mission. TE MANA’s SH-2G
Seasprite helicopter gathers coastal intelligence, surveillance
and reconnaissance to build an accurate picture of the maritime
environment and deter criminal activity.
“We need to play our part, as an international citizen and as a
nation that relies on trade from the sea,” said CDR Arndell, noting
that 95 per cent of New Zealand’s trade goes by sea. “The Gulf of
Aden and this part of the world is a vital link for our trade with the
rest of the world so it is important that we contribute to the antipiracy operations here.”
For three weeks from 24 January, TE MANA was participating
in NATO’s anti-piracy mission, Operation Ocean Shield, before
rejoining CTF 151.
14
TE MANA OP TIKI VI
Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman said participating in Ocean
Shield was a good opportunity for the NZ Defence Force to test its
interoperability with contributing NATO nations.
“This deployment is an example of New Zealand’s commitment to
playing our part in supporting NATO in areas of common interest.
In June 2012, the Prime Minister signed a partnership arrangement
with NATO, and maritime security was identified as a key area of
mutual security interest,” Mr Coleman said.
In April 2013 the Cabinet approved TE MANA’s deployment to
support the CMF in the Gulf of Aden, and provision was made for
the frigate to support other maritime security task forces operating
in the region such as Ocean Shield.
New Zealand is the second NATO partner nation, after Ukraine, to
contribute to Ocean Shield.
This page (top): TE MANA’s boarding team (bottom right) en route to visit a
small boat with the ship nearby.
This page (above): HMNZS TE MANA’s Seasprite helicopter transfers vital
stores to the ship during a replenishment at sea.
Navy officers help ambulance crew
to save man’s life
N
avy lieutenants LT Lachlan Whelan and LT Dan Wierenga
were jogging near the Navy’s Ngataringa Bay sports field
on Jim Titchener Parade in Devonport on 8 January when
they saw two ambulance officers attending to a man who had
collapsed by the roadside.
Just as they stopped to ask if they could help, the man, Bruce
Baird, 54, of Mairangi Bay, suffered a massive heart attack. The
ambulance officers suddenly had more work than they could
instantly handle and asked the lieutenants if they were trained to
perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). As Navy personnel
trained in first aid, they were.
"We could see things were escalating," said LT Wierenga. "They
asked us if we could do chest compressions and we were happy to
lend a hand,"
The pair had been taught to undertake the compressions to
the tune of Row, Row Row Your Boat and began working as the
ambulance crew opened their defibrillator and wired Mr Baird for
electric shock treatment to get his heart working properly again.
“Their actions remind us of the importance of maintaining our first
aid skills as they could be required at short notice; not only for our
role at sea but also for the benefit of our families and the wider
community.”
Presenting the commendations, CDRE McDougall quipped: “This
just proves that going for a run is good for your health.”
Mr Baird said he could not give enough thanks to everyone
involved in saving his life.
“I walk quite a lot most days and I was walking in Devonport that
day. I don’t know the street names there. I was overheating and
feeling ill so I lay down and called 111 on my phone, but I didn’t know
the address. I crawled to the road and tried to wave cars down. One
stopped and I gave my phone to the guy who gave the address.
“I vaguely remember the St John people arriving and asking where
it hurt—then I woke up in hospital. I was told that 50 per cent of
people who have a heart attack on the side of the road die, so the
bottom line is I am alive. Thank you very much.”
Six shocks and drugs were needed. The printout from the
defibrillator, later presented to Mr Baird, shows clearly the CPR
compressions performed by the lieutenants as well as the electric
shocks and his heart finally beating back to normal.
After Mr Baird was taken to hospital—where he made a full
recovery and was released after a few days—St John Ambulance
contacted Devonport Naval Base to say he would very likely have
died had it not been for the help from LT Whelan and LT Wierenga.
The following week, Mr Baird, with the ambulance officers Jason
MacAskill and Jono Milne, visited the base to thank the lieutenants
and see them awarded a Deputy Chief of Navy Commendation by
DCN, CDRE Dean McDougall.
“Lieutenants Wierenga and Whelan’s professionalism and
application of their military training during this incident saved a
life and are in the finest traditions of the service, exemplifying the
RNZN’s core values,” the commendation said.
This page (top): From left, paramedic Jason MacAskill, LT Wierenga, Mr
Baird, LT Whelan and paramedic Jono Milne
Above: From left CDRE McDougall, LT Wierenga and LT Whelan at the DCN
Commendation ceremony
our people
15
WON REPORT
icer o
f
wa
e n av y
rrant
ff
th
Warrant Officer of
the Navy Lennie Shailes
o
T
o all the sailors of the RNZN, welcome back to
another fantastic year in our Navy. This year like
the last will be extremely busy and will also offer
up great opportunities for development, training and
advancement.
During Navy Divisions held recently, Chief of
Navy announced that this year will be the “Year of
Regeneration” for our Navy. As he stated, this is not just
about trying to build our numbers or encourage people to
undertake training opportunities. An important part will
be bringing back some of the traditions that we’ve let slip
away. Continuing to have fun will also be a priority.
As part of this regeneration I’d like to encourage you all to
take advantage of any education or training opportunities
that are offered to you. By taking these you will not only
help yourself, but also those around you. I also encourage
you to look for and go after these chances; you may be
surprised what you can get just by asking.
The Navy has a number of extra commitments this
year. This is especially surrounding those to do with the
anniversary of the start of the significant events during
WWI. To ensure that we celebrate and remember those
who have gone before us, I hope you all get involved and
do those people proud.
Congratulations to LPTI Lou Thyne who was recently
named by CN as our Sailor of the year for 2013. Lou has
done a fantastic job while serving on HMNZS TE MANA,
not only ensuring the sailors onboard are fit and healthy
but that they are motivated. Lou’s enthusiasm for her job
has improved life onboard during many arduous periods.
WO1 Alan ‘Tricky’ Cunningham recently relinquished
his appointment as the Warrant Officer of the Defence
Force, handing over to WO1 Danny Broughton. On behalf
of all the sailors of the RNZN, I’d like to thank Tricky
who, throughout his time on watch, did a great deal
in improving the conditions of service for our sailors,
soldiers and airmen and women.
Welcome to JOCT and BCT 14/01. We thank you all for
making the choice to join the Navy and I look forward
to meeting you over the next few months. Enjoy your
training and remember the more effort you put it the
more you’ll get out of it.
I know there will be a number of challenges for us all this
year and if you need help with anything don’t be scared
to ask.
Changes in the
Communications Branch
T
he Navy communicators trade has been renamed and
restructured as the Communications Warfare Specialist
(CWS) trade, a significant change to a very important branch
in our Navy and our Defence Force.
Over the past decade, changes in Information and
Communications Technology (ICT) have fundamentally altered the
way people work and live. The increasingly interconnected and
networked world that is developing is also changing the way in
which maritime warfare is conducted. ICT already supports almost
every activity the military undertakes, including combat, logistics,
surveillance and communications.
The unprecedented growth of ICT and changes in its application
to modern warfare has required an increased dependency on IT
networks and associated bearers for naval communicators. Reading
about events a day later in the newspaper is no longer acceptable.
Communications Information—previously considered an enabler of
the Warfighting Discipline—is now a Warfighting Discipline in its
own right and an exciting time for the Communications Trade.
The Communications Trade has recently undergone a
comprehensive review in an effort to incorporate emerging
technologies while also maintaining its focus on traditional roles.
The last review was undertaken over a decade ago and saw the
amalgamation of the Radio and Signals Branches. This served
us well but it is now time to firmly embrace and implement the
findings of the review to meet our current and future demands.
Therefore the RNZN Communications Trade, formerly known as
Communications Operators have been restructured and renamed
as the Communications Warfare Specialist (CWS) trade which
better aligns the Communications Trade with their Operations
Specialist Branch counterparts.
Other than the name change, the biggest change is the addition
of ICT as a core competency of the CWS trade. This new skill set
will see all CWS personnel trained in ICT. However additional
qualifications such as Radio Supervisor or Yeoman of Signals will
also remain at the Senior Rating level. It is imperative that RS and
YS skills sets are maintained despite technological changes.
The CWS name change will also be accompanied by a new
branch badge. This represents the historical and modern nature
of the communications environment specifically: Global—the
Earth centred on Aotearoa-NZ signifying the elements of Land,
Sea and Air that make up the environment the RNZN operates
from and in; Lightning Bolt—from Greek and Roman mythology
reflecting the roles of Hermes
and Mercury as gods of the sky;
and Elliptical Orbit—depicting the
future use of the stratosphere for
terrestrial communications and
with the inclusion of Four Stars
representing orbiting satellites in
the form of the Southern Cross.
Look after your mates.
Right: The CWS new branch badge.
16
news
behind the scenes
Christmas photo of divers in the pool gets
75,000 Facebook views
The Navy’s Operational Diving Team posed sitting in chairs at
the bottom of the swimming pool at Devonport Naval Base for
a Christmas photo that attracted 75,000 views on the Navy
Facebook page and was shared hundreds of times around the
world. It was also published on half a page in the New Zealand
Herald. “How did they do it?” This was the question asked many
times by people who saw the photo, which was arranged and
taken by base photographer Chris Weissenborn, a diver himself.
Here, Chris gives the answer.
I
got a call from the Navy dive team to take a group shot with
a twist, they wanted it taken underwater. ‘OK, sounds like a
challenge,’ was my response. ‘How many people in the pic?' 'Err,
around 20,' said the dive team.
So, around 20 people all underwater at the same time, keeping
them all as close as possible, and to get a shot as they all hold their
breath. Yep this was going to be challenging!
I enjoy scuba diving, especially combining the sport with
underwater photography. You have to plan to get the good shots,
and also be very patient, calm and at the same time control your
position in the water so you are neutrally buoyant.
Just before Christmas I met the divers at the pool, and we went
through a practice 'dry run' on land before jumping in, as there
were so many divers to get into the group photo. The main thing
was to get the divers into a small space so we would need at least
three rows, sitting, standing and standing on chairs. Two rows
wouldn't have done it, as I would have been too far away from the
group, as the further away you get from your subject underwater,
the harder it is to get good clarity.
We took about four attempts to get the shot I was happy with, and
the divers did a great job at breath-holding whilst I was taking the
shots. It was much easier for me as I was using scuba gear because
there was no way I could hold my breath for as long as the dive
team could.
With a shot hopefully in the bag, I scurried back to the photo
unit to upload what I'd taken, I quickly selected the best shot,
and was very happy with it. All I did in Photoshop was tweak the
contrast levels a little, then got the shot registered, and shared
it with the divers.
The photo was uploaded to Facebook, and the interest in it was
incredible, I was stoked to learn after a day it had over 44,000
views, then I found out that the editor of the NZ Herald wanted
to publish it. Just goes to show how something 'a little different'
catches the eye!
Top: The photo with 75,000 views
Above: Base photographer Chris Weissenborn
OPERATIONAL DIVING TEAM
17
01
02
05
08
04
1. Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Jack Steer visited HMNZS TE MANA while she was in port in Mumbai, India, on January 22 to present Operational
Service Medals to Ship’s Company for Op TIKI VI. Here he congratulates POET Paul Van der Hulle. 2. ASCS Beau Aston, ASCS Ruben Posa, LT
Marc Griffiths, WOWT Nicholas Rowe, AMED Matt Pirini, LT CDR Paul Matenga and ASCS Robert Self of HMNZS CANTERBURY paying a visit to
Christchurch Hospital Children’s Ward during the ship’s recent visit to her home port. 3. ASCS Emily Maxwell, Boats Coxswain 2, on duty for the
Auckland Anniversary Day regatta. 4. LT CDR Rob Bryant and Heather were married recently at St Christopher’s Chapel at Devonport Naval Base.
5. Leading Chef Jordan Rippey receiving HMNZS CANTERBURY’s Sailor of the Quarter award on 4 February from the CO, CDR David Turner. The
citation for the award says: “During his tenure onboard, LCH Rippey has matured into a strong leader and is considered a key figurehead for HMNZS
18
Our People
03
07
06
09
CANTERBURY’s Junior Rate community. Demonstrating a strong power of command, he has shown himself to be an exceptional Leading Hand who
meets the highest standards of professionalism and dedication to customer service.” 6. New recruits, from left OSCS James Buckland, OSCS Kiana
Turanga and OET Jack Vujcich at the attestation ceremony for Basic Common Training 14/01 on 22 January. Warrant Officer of the Navy WOSA Lennie
Shailes (far left) stands by. 7. HMNZS CANTERBURY senior rates POSCS Mat Betty and POSCS Gan Elphick-Moon with children from Cholmondeley
House, Christchurch, in front of the newly painted and erected flag pole replacing the one that was knocked over during the 2011 earthquake. 8. SLT
Brock West is greeted by his wife Liv on HMNZS OTAGO’s return from the Southern Ocean on 2 February. 9. ACH Stephanie Loader at work feeding
the masses in HMNZS CANTERBURY
our people
19
Supply Officers’ Conference
discusses busy times
By LT CDR Kelly Begg RNZN, Deputy Director Naval Excellence
Above: Supply Officers Conference attendees
ne of the benefits of naval life is the ongoing focus
on professional development and bonds within our
branches, and so, on 10 December the Supply Officers
held their annual branch conference at Devonport with a theme of
‘Operationalising our Future’.
CDRE (Rtd) Bruce Pepperell made his first return to Devonport
since leaving the RNZN, speaking to us about his role in the Civil
Defence Wellington Region Emergency Management Office,
Wellington Cricket, and how he has leveraged the lessons and
experiences from his naval career.
Invitees included all members of the GLS (General List Supply)
Branch and Support Warrant Officers, along with several
colleagues from the Army and Air Force. There were a broad range
of attendees, including our newest branch member who had
graduated from Junior Officer Common Training the week before.
The outcomes focussed on questions to be considered in the
upcoming Supply Officer Profile Review and how we can shape
our operating paradigm in the current and future environment.
There are a number of programmes, such as Joint Enablers,
which streamline some of the supporting functions which have
traditionally featured in the Supply Officer career continuum,
creating an opportunity for the branch to focus on operational and
military skills and tailor our training to support these.
O
The conference focused on looking at the future of the branch,
including potential future employment contexts, and provided
an opportunity to update people about programmes such as
Joint Enablers, capability changes and how Defence and Navy
strategy impacts our people. There was also an opportunity for
several more junior members of the branch to reflect on the varied
operations we have been involved in recently, including the many
and varied deployments of HMNZS WELLINGTON in 2013; the
Joint Amphibious Task Force and Exercise Southern Katipo 2013;
the imminent Western Pacific Naval Symposium—Mine Counter
Measures Exercise; and planning that is occurring for hosting an
international operation in New Zealand.
Navy signs MOU with
Sir Peter Blake Trust
Overall, the conference provided many people the chance to
reconnect with others in the branch and discuss what has been
happening throughout a very busy 2013. Supply Officers tend to
be employed across the NZDF in a variety of roles, so bringing the
branch together on an annual basis is an important tool to ensure
we maintain an understanding of what is happening outside our own
roles. As we move through 2014 and beyond, the conference helped
focus the branch on future employment, training and education
opportunities as we look to evolve with the RNZN and NZDF.
C
hief of Navy Rear Admiral Jack Steer and Sir Peter Blake
Trust Trustee Don Robertson signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between the two organisations in
a ceremony at the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, Devonport on 16
January 2014.
Both organisations have a strong commitment to youth potential
and developing the next generation of New Zealanders. They have
already collaborated in many activities and initiatives and the MOU
formalises their ongoing relationship and cooperation. Areas for
planned future joint initiatives include projects to develop youth
leadership, workforce development and marine protection.
Left: From left, LT CDR Phil Rowe (Commanding Officer HMNZS
WELLINGTON), Jack Hamilton (previous SPBT voyager on board HMNZS
CANTERBURY), SPBT Trustee Don Robertson, SPBT Trustee Sarah Trotman,
RA Steer, SPBT staff member Hannah Prior, SPBT Chief Executive Shelley
Campbell and CAPT Mark Worsfold.
20
news
Tag football at Ngataringa
By CPOCWS James Leomotu
T
he Navy hosted the Police & Services Tag Football
Tournament on Saturday 18 January at Ngataringa Sports
Grounds.
RNZN were represented by two teams, Open Men and Open
Mixed. This was the first Tag Football tournament hosted by Navy.
The Police organisers and many of the teams had not been to
Ngataringa before and were very impressed with the facilities
available to them. The Police are interested in hosting the next
tournament at Ngataringa in 2015.
Our vision is to maintain our very good relationship with the Police
and align ourselves with building safer communities through the
sport of Tag. Tag Football is a fairly a new sport to the NZDF but
has gained popularity over recent years. It was introduced as an
off-season game for NRL players over 10 years ago and has since
gained momentum and popularity not just with the Rugby League
community but throughout the other sporting codes.
The Navy were previous Champions in both grades in 2012, but
this time round the Navy Open Men came 3rd overall and the Navy
Mixed came 4th overall.
Left: Tag football action
JOCT Sword of Honour graduate bound for Chile
S
word of Honour recipient SLT Sanjay Prakash from Junior
Officer Common Training 13/02 is embarking on a naval
exchange to Chile armed with enough Spanish phrases “to
get by”.
Minister of Defence Hon Jonathan Coleman presented the Sword
of Honour to SLT Prakash after he achieved the highest overall
results of the 22-week JOCT 13/01.
“I was pretty nervous about it but the whole course went really
well, particularly the leadership aspects, so I was very happy to be
awarded the Sword of Honour,” SLT Prakash said.
Adjusting to military life was no challenge for SLT Prakash who
had previously spent three years in the Army Reserves based in
Burnham.
The 24-year-old was one of 117 sailors and officers who graduated
from their initial training on December 6.
“For me, a course highlight was travelling to Sydney aboard the
SPIRIT OF NEW ZEALAND for the International Fleet Review in
October,” he said.
Experience aboard a Tall Ship is exactly what the former Burnside
High student needs when he leaves for a naval exchange in
February to Chile where he will board the ESMERALDA—one of the
largest Tall Ships in the world at 113 metres long.
“We’ll be travelling around Cape Horn, with a number of days
spent in ports in Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Chile.”
SLT Prakash said the exchange was an opportunity to represent the
RNZN abroad and strengthen ties with the Chilean Navy.
“It’s going to be an incredible experience and I’m really looking
forward to the challenges and opportunities it will bring.”
Above: Sword of Honour recipient SLT Sanjay Prakash.
Since graduating, SLT Prakash has spent time sailing around the
north-east of New Zealand aboard inshore patrol vessel HMNZS
HAWEA conducting Customs patrols.
“I was mainly observing officer of the watch duties which is
something I will be training in soon. I also spent time with the
Ship’s Company shadowing them and learning about each of their
roles onboard.”
Beyond his exchange to South America the 24-year-old has his
sights set on qualifying as a Lieutenant as quickly as possible.
He also has ambitious career-based goals including working in a
United Nations observer role and deployments to regions such as
the Korean Peninsula and the Sinai.
news
21
Marine Engineers have highly successful forum
By ENS Jarrod Walsh RNZN
T
he annual Marine Engineering Forum was held in the
Philomel Seminar Centre at Devonport Naval Base on 9
December. The event was well attended by over 150 people
ranging from our sole New Zealand based ME captain (CAPT David
Gibbs) through to the latest recruits having recently passed from
Basic Common Training. The theme of the forum was “Looking
forward; Marine Engineering out to 2020”.
The day was made up primarily of presentations updating the
current and future exciting ME projects that will shaping the
Navy up to 2020 and beyond. This included the current status of
the Platform System Upgrade and SeaFARE (Seaworthiness First
Action Response Element); a look into the Littoral Operational
Support Capability and Maritime Projection Sustainment
Capability (the replacements for RESOLUTION, MANAWANUI and
ENDEAVOUR).
Light was shed into the current training programmes for both
officers and ratings, with briefs explaining why ME junior officers
are sent to England, the current state of manning for ME ratings,
and the large opportunities for promotion available for those who
work for it.
Following on from this came a different perspective on ME—
views from the mess decks. TE KAHA Leading Rates gave a Junior
Rates perspective on the ship’s current mid-life upgrade and
CPOMT(P) David Guy giving an invigorating and light hearted
Senior Rates perspective on “Awesomeness, Anger, Frigates and
the Future” (a real highlight of the day!). Finally the Director of
Naval Engineering CDR Kelvin Wishart gave an update on the
Wellington perspective followed by a chance for the ME Branch
to ask questions of the leadership before CAPT Gibbs summarised
the day and closed the forum.
The day proved to be highly successful. Communication flowed
from the top down as well as from the junior ranks up to the senior
members of the ME Branch.
• Page 35—notice of 2014 Annual Engineers Conference.
22
news
Top: The ME Forum participants
Middle: LMT(L) Benjamin Marshall posing a question to the ME Branch
leadership
Above: CDR Peter Young awarding LT Elliot Kendrick his commissioning
parchment.
Seasprite project going well
By Peter Lowen, MHCP Project Manager, Ministry of Defence
T
he Maritime Helicopter Capability Project (MHCP) is the
purchase of eight SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, plus two
spare aircraft, to replace the five SH-2G(NZ) Seasprites
currently in service at No 6 Squadron in Auckland. The contract
to deliver the helicopters, complete with a full mission flight
simulator, training and spares, was signed with Kaman Aerospace
last May.
All aircraft are undergoing a regeneration inspection and
modification programme before acceptance and delivery to New
Zealand in late 2014/early 2015. New Zealand based activities in
support of the MHCP include the construction of ground facilities
at Whenuapai for the simulator, training, logistics and software
support activities.
To oversee the helicopter preparation on behalf of Defence is a
Resident Project Team (RPT) comprised of a Ministry of Defence
project manager, four RNZAF personnel, including two engineering
officers, an avionics technician and an aircraft technician, plus two
RNZN personnel; a pilot and an observer. The team is located at
Kaman’s Bloomfield plant in Connecticut, USA.
Setting up life in the USA has been an interesting challenge for
all team members and their families, some of whom will join the
team in early 2014. Kaman is making excellent progress with the
helicopters and the RPT is meeting the significant tasks associated
with acceptance of the helicopters for NZDF use.
Above: This group photo was taken beside one of the Seasprites on the
occasion of presenting SQNLDR Andy Gallagher his NZ Armed Forces
Award. From left Mr Peter Lowen (MoD project manager) and his wife
Christina, SQNLDR Ceilidh Martin (training requirements visit), F/S Todd
Hewlett (RPT aircraft technician), CDR Owen Rodger (RPT pilot), SQNLDR
Andy Gallagher (RPT engineering manager) and his wife Angela, LT CDR
Sam Greenhalgh (RPT observer), F/S Nikki Brown (RPT avionics technician)
and Ms Faith Ruggiero, the RPT’s administrative assistant.
news
23
New CDF aims to turn Future35 from vision into
‘tangible deliverables’
By Luz Baguioro, NZDF Media Manager
A
s an Army officer who spent much of his command time in
the New Zealand Special Air Service, Lieutenant General
Timothy James Keating was used to putting big picture
strategies into effect through specific tactics that achieve mission
objectives.
As the recently appointed Chief of Defence Force, the
operationally experienced commander is demonstrating this
ability to translate vision into “tangible deliverables” as he aims to
bring forward the Future35 strategy developed by his predecessor,
LTGEN Rhys Jones.
“The vision established by General Jones is still going to be a
powerful guiding vision for us. Establishing that Joint Operational
Excellence, that ability to operate in a joint environment far better
together, is going to drive us,” LTGEN Keating told Navy Today.
“What we will now start to do is plot out some tangible
deliverables, tangible plans to move quicker towards that construct
because I don’t think we need to wait till 2035 for that. We can
achieve [that vision] early if we lay some solid plans.”
As the new chief, LTGEN Keating is pursuing a number of priorities
in his first 12 months. The first item on his to-do list is to draw
up a four-year plan setting out specific initiatives to achieve
the Future35 strategy, which envisages an agile and integrated
armed forces that can mount an amphibious operation involving
maritime, land and air assets in New Zealand or the Southwest
Pacific by 2035.
“We will hold ourselves accountable as the leadership team and
me as the head of the leadership team for the delivery of these
elements of our plan from 2014 onwards,” he said.
24
NEW CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE
The New Zealand Defence Force took “a first good step” in
realising the Future35 strategy in the 10-nation Exercise Southern
Katipo last November, according to CDF. However, he would like to
see the war games run more as an operation in 2015.
“We need a process where we can move rapidly from concept
to execution to making a decision that understands risks,” he
said, adding that rapid decision-making enhances the NZDF’s
operational capability.
“There will be a joint commander and he will command the assets
and the activities. Participants won’t be participating in separate
exercises that are joined together but will be operating under a
joint command and construct.
“We need to challenge ourselves a little bit more and not be afraid
to try different constructs. Sometimes, we just need to make a
decision, understand the risks and give some things a go.”
“We’ve got to practice as if it were a New Zealand operation,”
he said. “So I want that level of command and control, that
level of emphasis next time. And we will be setting some clear
expectations and key milestones.”
One of CDF’s stated goals is to make NZDF operations better.
“I want to shift our thinking towards that Sir Peter Blake
statement. Is what we are doing going to make the boat fast? Is
what we are doing going to make the helicopters in No 3 Squadron
better able to deliver? Is what we are doing going to be able
to sustain our ships at sea and our people delivering on those
operations? That’s going to drive my emphasis.”
CDF says his predecessor has passed on to him “a very solid
platform” from which the NZDF can scale new heights. Results of
the internal quarterly attitude survey show that morale has lifted
steadily since early 2012 and was recorded at 46 per cent in the
July-September 2013 quarter. Attrition rates have progressively
dropped from 21.6 per cent on 31 August 2012 to 13.6 per cent on 31
December 2013.
“It’s about keeping the best of
what the services continue to
deliver and what the cultures
deliver to make air operations,
maritime operations and land
operations successful and safe.
It’s also about understanding
that in a new environment,
many of the skills or even the
cultures are very similar and
need to work together.”
Last December, the government indicated it would provide
additional funding to support NZDF personnel and improve
defence equipment and infrastructure.
Although LTGEN Keating prefers to talk about specific and practical
plans, he is just as comfortable in articulating in big picture terms
his vision of what the NZDF might be under his leadership.
He envisions “a more unified Defence Force” where all the three
services work more collaboratively and effectively together. This,
of course, is crucial to achieving the Future35 strategy.
“It’s not one step further, but rather a great leap forward into a
unified Joint Force,” he said.
“It’s about keeping the best of what the services continue to
deliver and what the cultures deliver to make air operations,
maritime operations and land operations successful and safe. It’s
also about understanding that in a new environment, many of
the skills or even the cultures are very similar and need to work
together.”
The vision is achievable, he said, citing evidence that he saw
first-hand when he was Commander of CRIB 6 in Afghanistan.
The 100-strong contingent comprised personnel from the three
services and was deployed to support international reconstruction
efforts there from July to December 2005.
“What I saw on CRIB 6 suggested that NZDF personnel are far
more in common and alike than what we sometimes believe and
make out,” he noted.
Given NZDF’s relatively small size, CDF says it is not cost-efficient
to operate as an organisation with three separate silos.
“In a small defence force, you’ve got to get a large part of your full
force used to working in all three environments. We cannot afford
to silo through services,” he cited.
Now that the NZDF had drawn down its commitments in
Afghanistan, Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands, the operational
tempo has slowed.
This has presented “an opportunity for us to regenerate some
of our capabilities and solidify some of our skills before the
government directs us on our next operational missions. In the
interim, we have relationships to re-establish with our partners
and neighbours in the south-west Pacific and Asia. It’s also an
opportunity to build new partnerships.”
So does he see a tough road ahead?
On the contrary, he replies. “The exciting and challenging
part is ensuring that, as the head of the organisation, I run an
organisation that continues to inspire people to be as good as
those the Defence Force has always produced—with that focus on
operational excellence and service to the country.”
“We are presented with an opportunity and the challenge is to
make the most of that opportunity,” said Lt Gen Keating.
Given his vast operational experience, it is understandable that
this former Special Forces commander would like to encourage a
quicker decision-making cycle in NZDF boardrooms to support the
Opposite page (top): LTGEN Keating greeting Singapore soldiers on exercise
at Waiouru
implementation of decisions and plans.
Opposite page (left): LTGEN Keating
NEW CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE
25
26
Champion of
the Navy 2013
fun, fitness and frivolity
By POPTI Marc Thomas and WOPTI Peter Hodge
T
he 2013 Champion of the Navy was held at the Ngataringa
sports fields on Wednesday 11 December. Thirty-six teams
entered from all trades, units and ships in the RNZN with
approximately 800 people participating in the events. The theme for
the event was Science Fiction.
Before the tabloid kicked off, CPOMAA Brad Harris took all the
competitors for what was probably the largest ever warm up the
Navy has ever conducted with an aerobics warm up.
The events this year at the tabloid included a massive blow up
assault course, racing Segways, a giant water slide, javelin throwing, a
memory game, Pictionary, rock climbing and a team work game.
The following awards were presented on completion of the tabloid:
Overall winners—Divers; Top Ship team—HMNZS CANTERBURY; Top
Shore Team—Divers; Best Dressed—Chefs; Courage award—Fleet
Engineering Centre; Commitment Award—Seamanship School;
Comradeship Award—Chefs.
The Sports Person of the Year awards were held in conjunction
with Champion of the Navy. The awards were a reflection on the
successful year the RNZN had at Interservice tournaments with the
Men having won Basketball, Hockey and Rugby and the Women
winning Football and Netball.
The SPOTY award winners for 2013 were as follows:
Civilian Administrator of the Year—Mr Greg Hamilton (Navy
Basketball); RNZN Administrator of the Year—CPOMT(L) Peter Furjes
(Rugby League); Civilian Sports Person of the Year—Mr Sheng Wong
(RNZN Pistol Club); Manager of the Year—LT CDR Clinton Williams
(Rugby); Coach of the Year—CPOMAA Clinton Hemopo (Rugby);
Young Sports Person of the Year—OSTD Nirah Nathan (Netball);
Team of the Year—Interservice Men’s Hockey Team; Sports Person of
the Year—AMT(P) Karl Furey (Rugby).
Many local businesses got onboard and provided sponsorship for the
event, a massive thank you goes out: ASAHI Devonport, Stone Oven
café, Sierra café Devonport, Bella Monte café, Hells Pizza Belmont,
New World Devonport and Hotshots Philomel.
Opposite page: Fun and frivolity
Above (top): OSTD Nirah Nathan (Netball) is awarded the Young
Sportsperson of the Year Award by Maritime Component Commander CDRE
John Campbell.
Above (bottom): ODR Trent Luka receives the Top Shore Team award on
behalf of the Divers from Deputy Chief of Navy CDRE Dean McDougall
The Champion of the Navy proved once again to achieve its aim
of increasing morale and providing a fun and enjoyable day for
all personnel. On completion of prizegiving, the entertainment
kicked off which included Sons of Zion, Three Houses Down and
much more.
27
fleet progress
HMNZS otago
Op Castle and Op Fiordland Sound
Op Castle sees an RNZN Offshore Patrol vessel with RNZAF P3 Orion support deployed to the
Southern Ocean in support of Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living
Resources (CCAMLR) fisheries along with other NZ Government agency taskings. OTAGO
conducted boarding operations on CCAMLR-registered fishing vessels to monitor compliance
with catch limits, operating procedures and safety features, reporting on any illegal activity in
the area and provided extended capabilities in New Zealand’s Search and Rescue region.
By SLT Dan Crawford RNZN
H
MNZS OTAGO sailed south from Devonport Naval Base for
Op Castle in mid-November. After a short visit to Tauranga
and no small number of Southern Ocean themed Damage
Control exercises we arrived in Dunedin on 22 November to complete
the last of the pre-deployment preps. With a watchful eye on the
weather patterns and welcome assistance from LT CDR Matthew
Ruglys (RNZN Meteorological Officer), OTAGO picked her window
and sailed from Dunedin on 25 Nov bound for the Southern Ocean.
After hearing the stories from previous Southern Ocean
deployments, most members of Ship’s Company were pleasantly
surprised by the relative comfort of the passage south. Five days
were spent steaming south with the bridge team on constant
lookout for the first sign of ice before a reflection of white appeared
in the sky. This ‘Ice Blink’ was the first indication that we were about
to enter ice-infested waters.
Nerves were high in members of the bridge team who had not
experienced navigating in close proximity to ice before. These
nerves were to be tested as the ship continued to close the ice
28
fleet progress
Top: March of the Penguins
Above: CO LT CDR Rob McCaw enjoying the perpetual sun at 2130 with
McMurdo Base in the background
fleet progress
flows. After following an edge of ice for what seemed like hours,
the Commanding Officer, LT CDR Rob McCaw, took the ship
and manoeuvred to push through a small bridge to open water.
Personnel moved onto the upper decks to observe. But, with as little
as a thud on the hull, OTAGO cut through the rotting ice.
After all the excitement of the first exposure to ice, it soon became
the norm with OTAGO always operating in the vicinity of ice looking
for vessels of interest. Our first break came on Sunday 8 December
when we closed a fishing vessel through thick fog. Activity levels rose
again as we prepared for the first boarding of Op Castle. Two and a
half hours were spent circling the vessel while the boarding team and
embarked Ministry of Primary Industry fisheries officers conducted a
thorough search of the vessel, ensuring the strictest compliance.
The fog that had surrounded us during our first boarding lingered for
the next eight days—opening and closing with visibility often less
than 200 yards ahead of the ship. A further four boarding operations
took place over this period—at any hour of the day. With nearly 24
hours of sunlight in a day, we were hardly surprised to come onto
the bridge at 0330 to find a boarding operation which had started
just after midnight coming to a close.
The passage south had been benign by Southern Ocean standards.
The passage back to the north was anything but! After a rough few
days, OTAGO returned to Dunedin on 21 December to change the
MPI officers and prepare for operations in the Fiordland sounds
over the Christmas period. Sailing on Monday 23 with the Ship resupplied, fast progress was made toward the Sounds—progress soon
to be hampered by the weather.
In the space of two hours we transitioned from 5-10 kts wind in
a calm sea to winds in excess of 65kts with seas reaching 15m! It
was decided that OTAGO would take shelter in Dusky Sound on
Christmas Eve where we would to remain until Boxing Day.
Christmas Day was spent at anchor in a bay north of Anchor Island
in Dusky Sound (soon to become a kiwi sanctuary). This gave a
welcome day to relax and unwind. Members of the Ship’s Company
were treated to a delivery of stockings full of Christmas goodies in
the morning. The Chefs put on what could only be described as an
incredible feast for dinner before we were visited by Santa himself
bearings gifts for one and all.
The ship’s satellite communications were made available to all
so that calls to loved ones could be made. The ship also received
messages of support from around the world, including a signal from
HMNZS TE MANA on operations off the coast of Africa.
After a relaxing day for most, OTAGO continued on her patrols
through the sounds. A stop was made in Milford to conduct some
pilotage training for the bridge watchkeepers.
The unique topography in the sounds allowed the ship to conduct
various different anchorages, enhancing the skills of all onboard. By
far the most exciting was the Mediterranean Mooring conducted
in Pickersgill Harbour, Dusky Sound. This involved letting go both
anchors and bringing the Ship back into a narrow inlet before
passing berthing lines up onto the banks and securing them to
trees. This particular location is the same site Captain Cook moored
RESOLUTION in 1773 to observe the transit of Venus.
With our time in the Sounds up, we sailed for Dunedin to re-supply
for the second and final phase of Op Castle.
Back into the Area of Operations, the majority of the Vessels of
Interest had pushed further south into the Ross Sea. In keeping with
the mission, OTAGO sought out potential leads through the ring of
ice that surrounded these waters. For days on end the ship delicately
manoeuvred and at times was forced to push through the ice in her
attempt to drive further south.
After almost a week of this stress, the attempt south had to be
abandoned as the ice thickened. All was not in vain though—in
working our way towards the South we had crossed the Antarctic
Boarding Officer’s report
By LT Tyson Witana, RNZN
B
ecoming a boarding officer was a very exciting prospect as
OTAGO was tasked to patrol the Southern Ocean under
the CCAMLR agreement and in support of the Ministry
of Primary Industries. The environment was undoubtedly one of
the best scenic areas to operate in, as boardings were conducted
against a backdrop of (sometimes) calm seas, spotted with sea
ice as well as giant tabular icebergs looming in the distance.
The operational tempo was high as the lack of ‘dark hours’ in
the Southern Ocean allows for boardings to be undertaken on
a near 24-hour basis. That saw the Boarding team conducting
operations starting as early as 0100hrs.
Conducting boardings was both a thrilling and challenging task.
The first of the challenges was getting dressed up in all the
personal protective equipment required for operating in such
cold weather. Laden down with all this gear made for difficult
going, embarking and disembarking from the Vessels of Interest
(VOI). However, numerous hours of training ensured that the
team safely and swiftly conducted this evolution.
Onboard the VOIs was an experience as we interacted with the
different nationalities that make up the crew of each vessel. The
language barrier only posed small difficulty in communication, as
most masters were very receptive to having us onboard.
Getting a chance to operate in the Southern Ocean, especially
as a Boarding Officer has been one of the highlights of my
career. Not many people get to see and work in this frozen part
of the world.
Above: View from the boat during boarding operation
fleet progress
29
fleet progress
Circle (Latitude 66° 33.9’ South). This gave the Ship’s Company the
opportunity to conduct a Southern Ocean themed ‘Crossing the
Line’.
The ‘Orcas’ (those who had already crossed into the Antarctic Circle,
although randomly, were dressed as ninja penguins) gathered and
gave out summonses to Ship’s Company. With all the preparations
complete, we were called to Neptune one by one. After a short
penguin slide to give offerings to Neptune’s daughter we dressed
into immersion suits and were taken to a nearby ice flow giving
everyone the chance to enter the frigid waters (-1°C) of the Southern
Ocean and play on the ice.
Our attempt south had to be abandoned for the meantime but with
Ship’s Company inducted into the Order of the Red Nose, it was time
to push for open water to allow some respite and to plan our next
attempt. Fortunately, an American research vessel and icebreaker,
NATHANIEL B. PALMER, was heading north and passing close to our
position. Contact was made with the Captain of PALMER and they
were happy to make a close pass by OTA allowing us to follow in her
wake through the thick ice.
The lead-through started at 0300 with a bright orange sunrise
illuminating our path (the sun having set only one hour prior).
PALMER had passed close to OTAGO turning to leave a swept
channel for us to slip into. Once in her wake we found ourselves
making at least 6 knots through ice we wouldn’t have pushed at 1
knot. In a matter of hours we had transited the ice to open water.
The very same ice it had taken us so long to work our way through!
With the lead-through complete and gifts passed to the PALMER in
thanks for their help we proceeded on our own way to maintain our
patrol on the northern edge of the ice.
As we considered our options, the feeling of Groundhog Day began
to set in. So many days were inseparable from the last. However,
another icebreaker approached, the US Coast Guard vessel POLAR
STAR. Arrangements were again made for a lead-through operation.
This time we wouldn’t be so fortunate. OTAGO fell in astern of
POLAR STAR at 500 yards as she entered the icepack, however, this
time the channel left by the POLAR STAR was closing much more
rapidly. The sea conditions which we had expected to ease as we
moved further into the ice remained. The heavy swell and strong
winds worked against us; operating at low speeds in ice requires
stabilisers to be shutdown meaning the swell was having a big effect
on the ship and at low speeds we were being set by the wind. These
conditions, not ideal at the best of times, were made so much worse
by the proximity of growlers (solid chunks of glacial ice) and thick sea
ice, meaning we were forced to abandon yet another attempt south.
The familiar feeling began to set in again as we maintained our
presence north of the ice. Command continued to closely monitor
the satellite ice pictures in order to plan our next move. All the
while we continued to follow the movements of Vessels of Interest.
We were nearing the end of our time on station when the satellite
30
fleet progress
pictures, which had been misleading, began showing a trend of
opening ice to the south. OTAGO began to scout along the edge of
the ice before we found another opening. This time we were in luck,
after a short push we broke into the Ross Sea and continued south.
As we sailed south deeper into the Ross Sea we were able to locate
more fishing vessels. The furthest south of these was a New Zealand
vessel conducting some research just to the north of the Ross
Ice Shelf. As we approached the vessel Mt Erebus towered in the
distance, visible from over 70NM, and closing further, the Ice Shelf
loomed in the background. OTAGO sailed along the Ice Shelf before
passing Ross Island and heading further south into McMurdo Sound
to conduct the last of our trials.
Being in McMurdo Sound presented the opportunity for the Ship’s
Company to visit the Antarctic Continent, stepping ashore on
Ross Island. A rare opportunity to stretch our legs in a historic
and isolated part of the world! Here we were able to observe large
colonies of penguins in close proximity to Shackleton’s Hut. The
sight falls under the Antarctic Special Protected Areas, meaning
there were strict rules about what we could and could not do.
Including how close we could approach the wildlife—not that the
penguins followed these rules! Curious about the new arrivals to
their home they would suspiciously approach us providing some
great photo opportunities. After a few short hours and with so much
more to explore we had to return to OTAGO.
LWTR Maria Joseph describes how it felt to step foot on such an
incredible part of the world: “An experience of a lifetime. Those are
the words I wrote home to describe what landing on Antarctica felt
like. We all know what snow and ice look like so it is quite hard to
find words that can adequately describe what the experience was
truly like. It was magical, the air was so fresh and pure that we all
breathed a little deeper, the view was so beautiful and untouched
that it was a struggle to tear your eyes away.”
While all of us would have wanted to spend more time on the
continent we weren’t too disheartened by the notion of leaving. It
was time to head home!
We began our passage north on Friday 24 January, bearing the
brunt of the Southern Ocean as we made out way home, arriving
in Devonport to the welcome of friends and family on Sunday 2
February at 1600.
Operation Castle is immensely challenging—the CO describes it
as the single most demanding thing he has done in his career, and
he has done this for two seasons! The operation saw OTA board a
number of New Zealand and foreign-flagged vessels on behalf of
CCAMLR and complete almost all of the extreme and cold weather
trials. Aside from this, an almost-new Ship’s Company from the 12/13
season now has a wealth of experience in operating in the vicinity
of the frozen continent and many of these mariners will be in OPVs
as they venture south in the coming seasons. We may be new to this
game but we are fast learners.
Bring on CASTLE 14/15!
fleet progress
Engines report
manual speed input due to the lower speeds but they are doing
their job and keeping the ice belt where it should be.
By CPOMT(P) Neil McIntosh
Into the Generator Compartment I go. On opening the door I’m
reminded of the all too familiar scream of the turbos as the two
generators rumble away at a lower octave. These little beasties are
doing their job. We have as much heating on as we can to keep the
ship comfortable and the load being shared by these is around 400
kW. Ordinarily we would be on one generator but down here, with
the loading so high, it would only take the AC to run up and we
would have a TLF (total electrical failure) on our hands. On an OPV
these TLFs are fortunately well practised so we can usually manage
to get propulsion and steering back fairly quickly. Bridge staff can
manage for the 30 seconds or so it takes to get everything back
up however once you put an iceberg in the general proximity the
teeth begin to grit.
Operating in the Southern Ocean has its advantages and
disadvantages just like every other place in the world, but we of
the engineering creed define each place by how the Engine Room
feels. Up in the Tropics it’s “hot as hell.” Way down south it’s …
well, we’ll just say “COLD”.
My walk through the engine space takes me past the two main
engines, my pride and joy when they are running hot and true; a
constant worry for me in the Southern Ocean where heat being
generated is rapidly lost to the zero degree water we float in. As I
write this while in icy waters, the engines themselves are running fine
for now, but I worry about the low temperatures inside the cylinders
and in the jacket water which surrounds them. The last thing I need is
choked injectors and carbon build-up inside the cylinders.
I also worry about the lube oil and the sludge and sulphur build-up, not
to mention the chance of water leaking into the engine which tends to
happen with the RK280s when cold. This lack of heat the engines are
producing is as good of an environment as any for this to happen.
Usually, good engineering judgement would prevail and a highspeed run would be programmed to ensure our normally stringent
relieving operations could take place. But down here it’s a different
story, we are ice bound! Not in the way you would imagine if you
thought of Shackleton’s stranding, but in a way where we are
surrounded by thin sea ice. There are clear passages here and there
but the safety of the ship and the crew dictate that speeds are
reduced and safe navigation is always the priority.
So the best I can do for now is give them a pat and watch the
places where the cold air is contracting the steel allowing
bolt tensions to ease and allow minor drips of oil to form. The
stabilisers are humming along and keeping us upright set to a
The RO (Reverse Osmosis) is running constantly and luckily
keeping up with the demand for the seemingly endless hot
showers the crew seems to be having. Anyone would think the
water supply is endless and between me and the readers I believe
some of the younger crew members think this too.
But these OPVs are good and there is still so much to be learnt.
This is my third trip to the ice in an OPV and I’m still learning every
day, not only from the environment but also from the young guys
and girls I have the pleasure of working with. The lateral thinking
of this new generation is awesome to see in action. By constantly
asking questions we push the boundaries of our preconceived
beliefs and on that rare occasion the right question gets asked and
a solution to an otherwise baffling problem is found. Couple this
attitude with a strict engineering change process and the right
training and these ships will not only improve the way they do
business but potentially unlock huge capability that will ultimately
benefit New Zealand in the long run.
Rhib Coxswain’s report
By LSCS Jordan McHugh
O
ne of my roles onboard HMNZS Otago is Rhib
Coxswain for the boarding team. This has quite a few
responsibilities, including the safety of the boarding
teams during the boarding to ensuring the vessel of interest isn’t
dumping anything illegal while the team is conducting their search.
This can be difficult even in the best of conditions when we’re
operating around New Zealand, let alone in the Southern Ocean.
While the boarding team and personnel on ship have to deal with
the cold weather for short periods, the Rhib crews are exposed for
three or four hours minimum in below freezing conditions with no
shelter and no respite—always on the lookout for ice where even
a piece of ice the size of a rugby ball can sink the Rhib.
We’re on call day and ‘night’ due to it being daylight 24/7. As the
fishing vessels are from different countries they tend to operate
in their own time zones rather than local time. We found this out
with one fishing vessel where their 4pm was our midnight. We
conducted a boarding from around 1am (local time) until about
5am and as their gear was inside the ice flow we were dodging
large bits of ice as large if not bigger than the Rhib.
With a few pick axes, some cordage and a ladder, the
Commanding Officer and I embarked the Rhib and with a welltimed jump and a bit of luck managed to scramble onto the
side of an iceberg. We spent an hour scouting the sides of the
fleet progress
iceberg and considering the sea state, gradient of the sides and
the general agility of the Ship’s Company. In the end the Captain
decided against the landing of the crew until a better and safer
opportunity arose, although the opportunity to use my training
in such an environment and to explore a fairly large iceberg was
a great experience to say the least.
Above: LSCS McHugh on the iceberg
31
fleet progress
HMNZS canterbury
home port visit
M
ulti-role vessel HMNZS CANTERBURY arrived in
Lyttelton on Thursday 30 January for a four-day home
port visit that included a Charter Parade, a ship’s open
day and activities with the ship’s charity, Cholmondeley House,
which gives short-term education and care to children at times of
family crisis.
CANTERBURY was in port at the moment of the February 2011
earthquake. Ship’s Company provided immediate help, an event
recalled by the Mayor of Christchurch, Lianne Dalziel, who
inspected the Guard at the parade.
Ship’s Company paraded through the central city streets
accompanied by the Navy Band and Reserves from HMNZS
PEGASUS.
Children from Cholmondeley House visited the ship in port and had
a great time exploring her. The CO, CDR David Turner, presented the
house with a cheque for $500 raised by Ship’s Company.
When CANTERBURY departed Lyttelton on Monday 3 February,
she had onboard 100 new recruits of Basic Common Training 14/01,
getting a sea-acquaint voyage back to Devonport early in their
training.
This page (top): Ship’s Company on parade
This page (right): CDR Turner presents the $500 cheque to Cholmondeley
House fundraiser Shelley Keach
This page (right): The Navy Band plays
Opposite page: Mayor Lianne Dalziel inspects the Guard
32
fleet progress
fleet progress
HMNZS
wellington
Guard Ship for Auckland Regatta
T
he Offshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS
WELLINGTON was the official Guard
Ship for the 174th Auckland Anniversary
Day Regatta, held on Monday, 27 January,
Auckland Anniversary Day. The ship embarked
VIP guests at Queens Wharf, then anchored in
the harbour for the regatta.
Maritime Component Commander CDRE
John Campbell hosted a buffet lunch on the
flight deck, while one of the ship’s rigid-hull
inflatable boat ferried news media around the
harbour to record the regatta.
The first Auckland Regatta was an impromptu
three-race event held on the day the city was
founded, 18 September 1840, when Captain
William Hobson’s officials raised the flag. It has
been held every year since except 1900. Today
it is a major sailing event often called “the
world’s biggest one-day regatta.”
fleet progress
33
Wellington Naval Reservists
end the year on a high note
By LT CDR Michael Stephens, HMNZS OLPHERT
F
ollowing a busy year which saw Wellington Naval Reserve
HQ HMNZS OLPHERT personnel involved in a number of
operational and training activities, the year ended on a high
note at the End of Year Parade, with old shipmates, families and
friends and Deputy Chief of Navy CDRE Dean McDougall as the
VIP guest for the event.
LT CDR Ian Wells, Commanding Officer HMNZS OLPHERT,
reviewed the high tempo of the year’s activities. These included
support for the Maritime Trade Organisation’s international
Exercise Bell Buoy, deployments on a number of RNZN ships and
on the Christchurch cordon, as well as OLPHERT’s regular training
activities. He thanked the OLPHERT team for what they had
achieved.
Looking forward, he encouraged them to each undertake specific
operational and other support activity postings for the RNZN in
2014, in line with the Command intent: “To build the team and
commit to operational activity.”
The parade was a great way to round out the year. The highlight
was CDRE McDougall presenting prizes and long service awards.
The Volunteer Reserve Decoration for serving Reserve officers was
presented to SLT Annalisa Hoeksma and SLT David Murden. The
Defence Service Medal was awarded to ASEA Thomas Katu. CDRE
McDougall also commended them for their qualifying service and
thanked their families for the ongoing support that makes such
service possible.
HMNZS OLPHERT held a remembrance service on 15 November
marking the loss of the cruiser HMS NEPTUNE on 19 December 1941.
NEPTUNE ran into an uncharted Italian minefield in the
Mediterranean off Tripoli. At 2.10am a mine exploded off her
starboard bow. Three more mines went off before the cruiser sank
with the loss of 764 officers and men, including 150 New Zealanders.
Just one man, Royal Navy Able Seaman Norman Walton, was
rescued, by an Italian torpedo boat after five days in the water.
He spent 18 months in Italian prisoner of war camps before being
released in 1943. Norman was able to visit New Zealand in 1991
and participate in NEPTUNE remembrance services including
Wellington at that time.
The Neptune Association Website is at www.hmsneptune.com
34
reserves
Top: From left ASEA Thomas Katu, ASEA Barry Dulieu, CDRE Dean
McDougall, SLT Dave Murden and SLT Annalisa Hoeksma.
Middle: LT CDR Ian Wells, CO HMNZS OLPHERT, inspecting the officers and
senior rates at the End of Year Parade
Above: Attendees at the HMS NEPTUNE remembrance service
Navy Engineers Conference 2014:
Engineering the Future
Philomel Seminar Centre, March 13-14 2014
The conference is open to serving and Reserve Charge Qualified
Senior Rates and all Officers
Request for papers now open, any volunteers to deliver papers or
topics of interest can be passed to
DDNE, LT CDR Paul Gray, RNZN
DELTN 349 7221 or [email protected]
All Marine Engineering and Weapons Engineering Junior Officers
and Senior Rates are strongly encouraged to bring forward papers/
presentations to the conference of appropriate professional topics
they have been working on or have a particular interest in.
The best paper by a Junior Officer/Senior Rate will be selected for
a professional development opportunity later this year or early in
2015. Papers should be between 15-20 minutes including a short
period of Q&A following the presentation.
It is expected that each group or unit will provide at least one JO
to present to the conference and some topics/ideas are available
with background information for those who would prefer.
Several partner navies will be invited to attend and present as
well as other industry and engineering leaders. There will be
plenary sessions through the conference providing opportunities
for questions to be asked of leaders and presenters as well as
networking sessions.
The conference will also be an ideal time for some key updates to
NZDF Capability Projects, Strategic Programmes, Personnel and
Leadership issues.
There will a networking evening event on the Tuesday night.
More details will be released along with an AI as the programme
takes shape
Reunion—Supplementary List officer cadets
It is proposed to hold a reunion of the first three classes of
Officer Cadets entered into the Royal New Zealand Navy on the
Supplementary List, in 1965, 1966 and 1967.
A tentative date of 28/29 March 2015 has been chosen. Year 2015
will mark the 50th anniversary of the commencement of Naval
Officer training in New Zealand.
It is felt appropriate to invite the Officers who were entered into
the RNZN on the Supplementary List via other gateways in the
1960s, to attend if they so wish.
The venue will be in Devonport. Once the level of interest is
established, date, format, venue and cost will be promulgated.
Please indicate your interest or otherwise by contacting John
Greenwood at [email protected] or phone 09 407 3357
HMNZS OTAGO 54TH ANNIVERSARY ALL
SHIPS REUNION
NAPIER RSA 34 Vautier St.
9, 10, 11 May 2014
Reunion accommodation HQ
Quality Inn 311 Marine Parade. Ph.06 835 3237 0800 404 800 .
Quote Otago Rooms available under $100.00
Taste the wine, visit Pania, see Napier’s unique architecture after
the 1931 quake.
Contact Noel Davies 8 Awatea Rd Parnell Auckland
Ph.09 377 0662
email [email protected] or [email protected] our local
Napier rep.
“ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT WEEKEND”
NAVY OPEN DAY
Saturday 29 March 2014, 10am—4pm, Queens Parade, Devonport
Ship and base tours, band performances,
damage control displays, parade display,
helicopter landing, kapa haka performances and MORE!
www.navy.mil.nz
Details will be posted on the Royal New Zealand Navy’s
website and Facebook page closer to the date.
NOTICES
35
Filipe Latu
Just squeezed in a quick swim before work. Brrrrrrrrrrrrr.
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mcc log

Feb-Mar 2014, Issue 177 - Royal New Zealand Navy

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