Navy Today August 2011, Issue 162
Transcription
Navy Today August 2011, Issue 162
navytoday VISIT O U R WEBSITE : WWW . NAVY . M I L . N Z R O Y A L N E W Z EA L A N D N A V Y i s sue 162 aUGUS T 1 1 operation Calypso opv's come of age K a pa H a k a te m a n a ctf 15 1 n avy's s ecret w e ap o n we l l and tr u ly w or k ed u p a nti pir a c y patro l three services as one force, being the best in everything we do ISSN 1173-8332 | ISSUE 162 | aUGUST 2011 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 fifthteenth year of publication. Views expressed in Navy Today are not necessarily those of the RNZN or the NZDF. 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 163 October Issue 01 Sept NT 164 December issue 01 November NAVY TODAY EDITORIAL ADVISERS: CDRE Burroughs, DCN WO D Bloor, WON Mr A Cutler, NCM EDITOR: Andrew Cutler Defence Communications Group HQ NZ Defence Force Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand P: (04) 496 0359 F: (04) 496 0290 E: [email protected] Midshipman Matt Wilson takes a bearing onboard HMNZS OTAGO during Op Calypso DESIGN & LAYOUT: Defence Communications Group 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]. nz on the quality of this publication is welcomed. ENQUIRIES TO: Defence Communications Group P: (04) 496 0270 F: (04) 496 0290 LT Sarah Campbell (Auckland) P: (09) 445 5002 F: (09) 445 5014 Director Defence Communications Group P: (04) 496 0299 F: (04) 496 0290 Recruiting Officer Auckland: P: (09) 445 5783 E: [email protected] CHANGING ADDRESS? To join or leave our mailing list, please contact: Marianna Robati DCG Sr Business Support Officer HQNZDF 2-12 Aitken St Wellington P: (04) 496 0270 E: [email protected] 2 NT162aUGUST11 10 kapa Haka 12Te Mana gets worked up 18ct 151 anti Piracy patrol INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 22 NZDSM inaugural recipients 30 HMNZS CANTERBURY 23 Navy 70th Anniversary 31 HMNZS ENDEAVOUR 24 HMNZS MANAWANUI 32 Defence Careers 18 CT 151 Combating piracy 26 HMNZS HAWEA & PUKAKI 36 Sport 20 Our People 28 HMNZS WELLINGTON 04 Operation Calypso 10 Kapa haka – Navy's secret weapon 12 HMNZS TE MANA – well and truly worked up 22 HMNZS KIWI's bell returned 34 Naval heritage 38 Main Notice Board 28 Naval Reserve W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z YOURS AYE by commodore John MArtin we have a course and a goal, and our job is to provide the professional knowledge that will make the maritime piece of the problem successful – lets go to it! [ Maritime COmponent Commander ] Our nation is a narrow slip of land in a large ocean. The sea is our constant companion and for us as mariners it is at once our enemy and our friend. maintenance and repair. We meet the challenge of the sea through Defence Diplomacy tasks and used opportunities professionalism, the strength of our shared to share experiences and information with New experience, discipline and supporting tradition. It Zealand’s partners in South East Asia. TE MANA is the sea that makes the Navy a fighting force that and TE KAHA’s presence is a tangible indication is different to others; we all go down to the sea of our commitment to the South East Asian region together, we all sink or swim together. We are a and demonstrates to our partners that we have team that puts service first, the ship second, our credible forces that would be a reliable addition to comrades third and ourselves last. any coalition. Moreover their deployment signifies and communicates New Zealand’s willingness to truths, particularly when we face rough waters. We operate our navy at “arms length” in support of have been here before: the adoption, in 1998, of the government’s aim. the Navy’s vision to be the best small nation navy In the South Pacific the conduct of Exercise Croix in the world is a case in point. After a decade of Du Sud and Pacific Partnership with US, Australian effort, courage, commitment and comradeship we and French Military units again demonstrated our were able to deliver tangible results and say that we ability to work with other nations for a common had achieved success. Now we are undergoing goal. It underlined the value and inherent flexibility change again and though many of us have been of our ships. It also demonstrated that we can host personally affected and the passage seems rough, the way ahead is definitely not uncharted. Our challenge is defined by The Defence White Paper and CDF’s intent to create an Amphibious Task Force (ATF) by 2015. It will require a Defence Force that is at once combat ready, expeditionary it is an exciting opportunity, and a significant organisational, technical and training challenge. To deliver CDF’s vision that the NZDF can lead and command operations in our region the Navy is going to have to provide increased support, expertise and leadership. It is tempting to think that the work of an ATF starts once the troops are 29 September – 3 October, Wellington On 1 October 1941 the ‘New Zealand Naval Forces’ became the ‘Royal New Zealand Navy’ after King George VI granted our Naval Forces his royal recognition. From 29 September – 3 October the RNZN will celebrate its 70th Anniversary with a Fleet Review and related activities in Wellington. For more details of the Review see the story on Page 23. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z coalition maritime environments, undertaken But sometimes it is easy to forget these basic in focus and maritime in outlook. For the Navy Navy 70th Anniversary Celebrations Our frigates, on their most recent deployment, have generated combat capability in complex ashore, but the lessons of history (e.g. Gallipoli and Crete) are that in more challenging scenarios and support land forces and embark other nation’s helicopters; and then, project our forces ashore using our landing craft and coalition helicopters. We now need to do that with our own NH90 helicopters and in more complex situations. Another milestone has been the deployment of the OTAGO Class Patrol Vessels to the Southern Ocean and the South Pacific thereby demonstrating our nation’s commitment to the region and the flexibility of our fleet. Crucially, these ships and the land forces they carry are building long lasting professional and cultural ties with the security forces of our neighbours. Our leadership of CTF 151, counter-piracy operations in the Red Sea and Somali Basin the precursor work needed to understand and is also a good case in point. The deployment influence the maritime approaches and then reflects our ability to develop professional and provide support from the sea is crucial to the experienced personnel from our training for naval success of any expeditionary operation. combat and our experience in participating and Intuitively, we have been going down this path leading coalitions. for some time and in the last six months we have So, here we sit at the eve of a big hairy audacious seen pleasing signs that Navy is on track and will goal, one that will add another competency and achieve CDF’s intent. In that time we have seen change the way we will do our business at sea. the Navy’s core competencies demonstrated: There is no doubt the our passage will require combat power, command and control, intelligence significant effort but we have a course and a gathering, boarding operations, naval aviation, goal, and our job is to provide the professional professional mastery of the maritime environment, knowledge that will make the maritime piece of diving, underway replenishment and naval the problem successful – lets go to it! NT162aUGUST11 3 international OPERATION CALYPSO 4 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z international OPVs Come of Age In February this year HMNZS WELLINGTON successfully completed the first deployment by an Offshore Patrol Vessel to the Southern Ocean, including Antarctic waters. Now her sister ship, HMNZS OTAGO, has completed the first longrange deployment to the Pacific. The success of these two deployments demonstrates the versatility and capability of the new ships. In early May 2011, HMNZS OTAGO, packed to the gunnels with sea riders, charitable freight (toys for Tonga) and supplies, departed for the South Pacific on the first long-range deployment to the Pacific for an OPV. “It was a complex deployment”, said OTAGO’s Commanding Officer, LTCDR Simon Rooke. “Over 37 days we visited eight islands and five Pacific nations, transported VIPs, performed a re-supply operation, embarked a large number of civilian sea 2011 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z riders, conducted an emergency medical transfer and undertook a range of military, fisheries patrol, surveillance and defence diplomacy activities. The versatility of the ship is amazing, and the ability of the RNZN to deploy such a ship for a long period gives us a large presence for a relatively small footprint.” HMNZS OTAGO’s RHIB off Raoul Island. Photograph, Jason O’Hara. NT162aUGUST11 5 international "The versatility of the ship is amazing, and the ability of the RNZN to deploy such a ship for a long period gives us a large presence for a relatively small footprint.” HMNZS OTAGO and Tongan Patrol Vessel VOEA NEIAFU conduct OOW and RAS Manoeuvres. 6 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z international Day Three RAOUL Day Seven TONGA OTAGO’s deployment commenced with a After leaving Raoul OTAGO headed for re-supply of Raoul Island in the Kermadec Tonga where she was welcomed by Tongan Group in support of the Department of Patrol Vessel VOEA NEIAFU with whom she Conservation (DoC). conducted a set of Officer of the Watch A large group of sea riders ensured that manoeuvres and Replenishment At Sea every bunk on the ship was filled, with guests Approaches. including the Minister of Conservation, the The four day visit to Tonga saw OTAGO begin Honourable Kate Wilkinson, an 11 person DoC the defence diplomacy and civil engagement work team and 11 prominent artists sponsored part of Operation CALYPSO. A number of by the PEW Environment Group. high profile visitors were welcomed on board During the three day visit the ship conducted including the Prime minister of Tonga, Lord 32 RHIB transfers, offloaded 25 cubic metres of Tu’ivakano, His Excellency, Dr Jonathan Austin, cargo and transferred 24 seariders to the island. New Zealand High Commissioner to Tonga, and “At Raoul Island we encountered some pretty a range of Tongan Cabinet Ministers. Another rough weather,” said ASCS Regan Jordan. “It task was to land the “Toys for Tonga” charitable made the transfer of the goods and personnel freight from Rotary New Zealand’s appeal. ashore a lot harder.” Ship tours for Tongan Navy personnel and With everyone ashore safely – if a little wet – mile Exclusive Economic Zones. Increased engagement with the FFA is likely in coming years as the RNZN undertakes regular patrols in the region. After completing the patrol the ship’s crew enjoyed a relaxing weekend in Samoa, their first period of leave in a Pacific Port. “Samoa had some awesome sights and the snorkelling was very enjoyable,” said Able Marine Technician (AMT L) Gavin Neuenschwander. Monday 23rd saw the ship back at work, preparing for the passage to the Tokelau Islands. Day FOurteen TUVALU For this leg of the deployment the ship again filled every bunk with additional personnel including the reconnaissance team who were preparing for the Humanitarian Exercise, Tropic Twilight in Tuvalu in July/August. The ship also embarked the Right Honourable OPV capability and familiarisation briefings for Dame Sian Elias GNZM, Chief Justice of New there was an opportunity for OTAGO’s crew to Tongan Naval Officers were also carried out. Day Eleven SAMOA Zealand and Tokelau, accompanied by her undertake some valuable training. Midshipman Matt Wilson, who is working towards his Alpha The next phase of OTAGO’s deployment Minister) o tokelau, The Right Honourable ticket which will allow him sole charge to drive involved a series of civil, diplomatic and patrol Foua Toloa. With two of the Nations’ most the ship, experienced piloting OTAGO around activities around Samoa and Tuvalu. important dignitaries on board OTAGO visited the Island. husband, Hugh Fletcher, and the Ulu (Prime OTAGO began her operations during her Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo in three days. “I got to drive the ship around Raoul Island passage from Tonga to Apia by conducting Each day the official party and reconnaissance for what we call 'close proximity pilotage'. surveillance and reporting for the Forum team transferred to the islands for the day and That means I was able to take the ship in very Fisheries Agency (FFA). The FFA is a regional the ship then commenced Hot Weather Sea close to the land and the rocks that surrounds organisation made up of 17 Pacific and trials to progress the Introduction into Service the island. This takes a lot of concentration Micronesian nations that work to sustainably of the OPV. and skill!” manage the tuna fisheries within their 200 Before departing the final island Fakaofo for Midshipman Matt Wilson on the bridge of OTAGO during Officer of the Watch manoeuvres. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 7 international OTAGO enters Port Avatiu, Rarotonga. LSCS Konrad Cook and exchange officer SLT Kane Stuart (RAN) on the bridge during officer of the watch manoeuvres. 8 NT162aUGUST11 Lt Cdr Rooke and Cook Islands Commissioner of Police Maara Tetava on the bridge of HMNZS OTAGO. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Apia, OTAGO was requested to provide medical sights. Several crew members also had family evacuation for a patient with extreme respiratory links to the Islands. issues. With OTAGO being able to provide “To be honest, it was a bit weird returning to a greater degree of medical support, patient Rarotonga with the Navy, because I was mixing comfort and, if required, a speedier passage work with a place that is very special to me”, said back to Samoa, the request was accepted Leading Stores Assistant (LSA) Noel Hirovaana and the patient, atoll's doctor and patient's who was born in Rarotonga. “Who else rides chaperones embarked OTAGO. their work into port?” On Friday 27th OTAGO berthed in Apia for the On Sunday the ship held an open day and second time in seven days. The difference this hosted 571 visitors, mostly expatriate New weekend was that ANZAC class frigate, HMAS Zealanders and local school children. The PERTH, was also alongside. Over the weekend children were completing research questionnaires sailors from both Navies’ visited each other’s for their school projects on marine resource and ships, and on Monday OTAGO sailed along environmental protection, which had been with PERTH and Samoan Police Patrol Vessel initiated to coincide with OTAGO’s visit. NAFANUA to undertake manoeuvres. For Sub Day twenty nine Niue Lieutenant Jeff Lura of the Canadian Forces this Leaving Rarotonga, OTAGO then conducted was the highlight of the deployment. “Speaking an EEZ patrol between the Cook Islands and as a Canadian serving in an RNZN ship, getting Niue. On arrival at Niue OTAGO anchored off the chance to drive an Australian frigate in a Afoli Harbour for 24 hours. Although the visit Replenishment Approach was an unexpected was short New Zealand’s High Commissioner, and very memorable experience.” His Excellency Mark Blumsky, said that OTAGO Day Eighteen The TUNA BELT & rarotonga and her crew did the Navy proud. The next phase of the deployment involved even losing to the local side at Touch rugby,” a patrol through the Pacific Tuna Belt to said Mark Blumsky. “Visits like this are critical to Rarotonga with three Samoan Maritime Police patrolling the surrounding waters and protecting personnel and two Cook Islands Fisheries the marine assets of Niue. It also does wonder Officers onboard. This part of the patrol in cementing the relationship between the two was designed to develop relationships with nations.” Fisheries Officers from the Pacific Islands for Mark Blumsky said that the reception held at future combined EEZ patrols. After a successful the High Commission was a highlight on many three day patrol OTAGO positioned itself north of the locals’ calendars. “Having LT CDR Rooke of Avatiu Harbour, Rarotonga, for rendezvous and crew join the locals for a relaxed, fun BBQ with the Cook Islands Patrol Vessel TE KUKUPA. was a great way to end a very worthwhile visit OTAGO and TE KUKUPA carried out a boat ashore". transfer of the Cook Islands Commissionaire Day thirty five Raoul of Police, Commissioner M Tetava, then 90 OTAGO departed Niue for Raoul Island where minutes of Officer of the Watch manoeuvres and she uplifted DoC personnel who had been replenishment approaches. dropped on the Island during the first leg of Over the following days OTAGO hosted several the deployment five weeks previous. Once official functions for dignitaries, including the the seven DoC personnel and stores were Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, the Right embarked, OTAGO began the final leg home of Honourable Mr Henry Puna. An Official Reception an eventful and successful deployment. with the New Zealand High Commissioner, Her LT CDR Simon Rooke said the deployment saw Excellency Ms Linda Te Puni was also held, the coming of age of the OPV’s. “WELLINGTON with a wide range of political, government and has successfully proven the ability to operate at expatriate guests enjoying a few hours onboard the Southern end of the OPV’s operational area the first OPV visit to Rarotonga. (Ross Sea), and now OTAGO has successfully A highlight of the reception was the passionate LSA Noel Hirovaana returns to Rarotonga on HMNZS OTAGO. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z “The ship and her crew did a splendid job, proven the ability to perform in the Pacific.” and impressive performance of OTAGO’s In coming years OTAGO and WELLINGTON kapa haka group which was so well received will undertake regular patrols into the Pacific to that Cook Island Maori guests performed an support New Zealand’s interests in the region, impromptu Waiata in recognition of the quality and to support the interests of our Pacific Island of the OTAGO groups performance. Neighbours. The success of this first patrol, and Saturday was the first opportunity for the Ship’s Company to visit the Island’s market and see the the goodwill it created, has set the standard for coming years. NT162aUGUST11 9 c u lt u r a l g r o u p TE MANA’s kapa haka group perform for the Sultan of Brunei. Kapa Haka Navy’s Secret Weapon When an RNZN ship deploys overseas it is well armed and its crew well trained. One of the most powerful weapons it carries, and one no other navy possesses, is the ship’s Kapa Haka group. Kapa haka groups are formed by a ship’s company at the beginning of a deployment. “What started as a get together soon turned into a group that was being asked to perform at official functions,” said PORS Paula Hill, a co-ordinator of TE MANA’s kapa haka group. “As a group we consider ourselves to be ambassadors of the Maori culture, just as all of Ship’s Company are ambassadors for the RNZN and NZ as a whole.” Co-ordinator of OTAGO’s group, PORS David Tapene, said that 10 personnel volunteered their own time to form their kapa haka group. “For a few of these members, it was there first time performing Maori culture in front of a foreign crowd. This to me was awesome to see, the Ihi, Wehi and Mana from the group portraying our culture - priceless.” 10 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z c u lt u r a l g r o u p TE MANA’s kapa haka group perform a waiata on arrival at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Like OTAGO, TE MANA’s kapa haka group welcomes new members regardless of whether or not they speak Te Reo, or whether or not they have Maori heritage or were even born in NZ. “When the group learns new material it is translated so that everyone in the group understands the meaning and the words of the waiata/haka,” says LCH Tim Te Hau - Group Tutor. “This way everyone is able to draw their own meaning and wairua (spirit) in how they want to express themselves. The items we learned and prepared during the deployment have been commonly known waiata, or have had a Navy influence (e.g. the Navy Haka, ‘ Te Tumu Herenga Waka’). On long deployments the kapa haka groups also play an important role building team spirit and morale. “Being away from home and our whanau, the OTAGO’s Kapa Haka performed at Nukunonu atoll in re sponse to a challenge from the Island’s cultural group. The value of this performance in terms of relationship building should not be underestimated, as it creates bonds within our region that can not be generated by other means. of where we are in the world.” haka from OTAGO". Beyond the value to personal and unit morale, During TE MANA’s deployment to Asia the the kapa haka groups play a highly important kapa haka group performed in several countries role when an RNZN ship visits another country. on arrival in port, and during the Fleet Review “The ability to display Maori culture overseas in Brunei. In Brunei the group performed to the is a great privilege and adds an incredible Sultan of Brunei during a multi-national parade dimension to the defence diplomacy port through the city. The Haka was extremely well visits”, says Commanding Officer of OTAGO LT CDR Simon Rooke. “During our deployment to the Pacific OTAGO’s kapa haka performed at Nukunonu atoll in response to a challenge from the Island’s cultural group. The value of this performance in terms of relationship building should not be received by the international crowd, media and the Royalty in attendance, with rousing applause from the audience. The value of kapa haka groups is summed up by LT CDR Simon Rooke. “When the group performs I feel a great sense of pride, both for my ship, but also as a New Ship’s Company come to rely on those around underestimated, as it creates bonds within them for support,” said PORS Paula Hill from our region that can not be generated by other Zealander. Seeing the pleasure in the faces TE MANA. “For many of us, kapa haka is a means. Later in the deployment the group of the group to so passionately deliver their way for us to express ourselves and how we performed at the official reception in Rarotonga, performances is matched by the enjoyment you are feeling about being away from home. It where their performance was so well received get to see on the faces of the crowds watching, gives us a chance to reminisce about those that the Cook Islands Maori guests performed be they expat’s being reminded of home, or who are waiting for us back in NZ. It is also a a Waiata in response to OTAGO’s performance, locals seeing a spectacular performance of way for us to keep our culture alive regardless as a mark of appreciation towards the kapa New Zealand’s culture.” W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 11 international hmnzs te mana 12 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z international HMNZS TE MANA with USS PREBLE rafted alongside, Brunei. Royal Navy Merlin Helicopter undertakes a Helicopter In Flight Refuelling (HIFR) evolution from TE MANA’s flight deck during Ex Bersama Shield. When TE MANA left Devonport Naval Base on 21 February for a 21 week deployment to Australia and Asia she was still regenerating capability after nine months of deep maintenance. Five months later she has returned a fully operational surface combatant warship having undertaken major exercises and a series of defence diplomacy activities in Australia, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei and Vanuatu. HMNZS TE MANA during her workup phase, Exercise Triton Storm. Photo: Royal australian Navy W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 13 international Formation manoeuvre during Exercise Bersama Shield, South China Sea. Royal Australian Air Force F18-D overfly’s TE MANA during workup exercises as part of Ex Triton Storm. TE MANA’s Deployment Phase One: Operation Cradock Leaving home port for a long deployment completing an operational Work Up in Australian the ship had achieved a Directed Level of is a difficult time for any or all of a Ship’s waters in company with TE KAHA, and HMA Operational Capability (DLOC) – the standard Company. Sadness at leaving family for a Ships PARRAMATTA and BALLARAT. This required for a combat vessel on a routine basis. long period is mixed with excitement and ANZAC Force (ANZFOR) undertook an intensive To achieve DLOC the ship was assessed by apprehension about the professional and series of exercises which for TE MANA a team of RNZN Subject Matter Experts. The personal challenges ahead. culminated in a Unit Readiness Evaluation (URE) assessment team threw multiple scenarios at at the end of March. the ship to test the Ship’s Company’s ability to The challenge for the crew of TE MANA was particularly great. Nine months of 2010 had “We drilled everything,” said TE MANA been spent in an extended maintenance period Operations Officer Lieutenant Commander At the end of an intensive 24 hour test during which the ship’s main diesel engines had Mike Peebles. “Gunnery, ship handling, anti- the evaluation team assessed TE MANA as been replaced, and extensive engineering work air and anti-submarine, damage control, achieving DLOC. This demonstrated that TE done on control and stability systems. By the flight operations, Replenishment At Sea, MANA was again a capable and effective time of departure all on board recognised that seamanship, towing, counter FIAC operations, fighting ship for the NZDF. they’d made great progress regenerating the Force Protection, Anti Surface Warfare, After completing the Work Up the ANZFOR fundamental capabilities of the ship, but there Maritime Interdiction Operations: you name it, then proceeded to Singapore for the annual was much more to do. we drilled it.” Five Power Defence Agreement (FPDA) The first challenge for the ship was successfully 14 NT162aUGUST11 The goal of the URE was to determine if fight and defend the ship. exercise, Bersama Shield. Bersama Shield W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z international TE MANA’s Deployment Phase Two: Operation Cutlass Following the completion of Bersama Shield scenery made it enjoyable as the shore the ANZFOR Task Group split up, with changed from the lush Vietnamese jungle, TE KAHA returning to New Zealand and into countryside and then to a sprawling city TE MANA relocating to Singapore’s Changi of surprisingly modern skyscrapers.” Naval Base to take part in the International The visit to Port Blair in the Andaman and Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) and Nicobar Islands (part of India) in early June Western Pacific Naval Symposium Maritime included exercises with an Indian Navy Security Exercise (WMSX). Landing Ship KESARI, and sports and social Participation in IMDEX and WMSX was the engagements with Indian Navy personnel from first of a series of port visits and defence the Naval Base. Three weeks after the visit diplomacy activities in South East Asia. From the value of the ongoing contact between the 23 May to 28 July TE MANA visited Penang in RNZN and the Indian Navy was referred to by Malaysia, Djakarta in Indonesia, Port Blair in the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Prime Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India), Ho Chi Minister John Key in a joint statement during Minh City in Vietnam, Brunei and Vanuatu. Prime Minister Key’s visit to India (see following Defence diplomacy is a key enabler in raising TE MANA’s crew at Procedure Alpha during arrival at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. story on Defence Diplomacy). the profile of NZ and NZ Government diplomatic The highlight of the final leg of Operation presence in the country being visited. A visit Cutlass was participation in an International by an RNZN ship, and in particular a FFH (Fast Fleet Review in Brunei. 21 warships from 12 Frigate Helicopter) demonstrates that the NZ nations participated in the review, in honour of Government is serious about developing and the Sultan of Brunei. Following the Fleet Review continuing a relationship with the country being TE MANA’s kapa haka group performed for visited. It’s also about relationships among the Sultan during a parade through the city The highlight of the final leg of Operation Cutlass was participation in an international fleet review in Brunei. 21 warships from 12 nations participated in the review, in honour of the Sultan of Brunei. military personnel, which are initially formed of Brunei. at a tactical level and eventually contribute to 11 Chiefs of Navy were present at the review operational or strategic level decision making. and our Chief of Navy, RA Tony Parr used the is a large exercise used to test and develop In Indonesia TE MANA hosted guests opportunity to host senior Navy officers from interoperability between the forces of Singapore, including the New Zealand Ambassador, His other nations onboard TE MANA. Among Malaysia, UK, Australia and New Zealand. This Excellency David Taylor, senior military officers and local city and government officials. In the guests hosted were Rear Admiral Jiang year the exercise involved eight frigates and more than 40 aircraft, including Malaysian Mig- Vietnam the New Zealand Ambassador, Her 29s and F-18D’s, and F-16 and F-5 aircraft Excellency Heather Riddell was on board ship from Singapore. for the 40+ nautical mile passage up the Saigon Wellie (Commander People’s Liberation Army (Navy) South Sea Fleet), Rear Admiral A R Karve, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff, India, Rear Admiral Thomas F. Carney, USN and, During the exercise TEM, TEK, PAR and river to Ho Chi Minh city where she and the ship BAL operated closely as the ANZFOR, often in were welcomed by officials such as leaders of company with other RAN units or embedded the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee, the within Five Power Defence Agreement (FPDA) High Command of Military Zone Seven, High challenge of becoming a capable fighting unit Command of the Navy and other Vietnamese for the RNZN and NZ Defence Force. Twenty officers. one weeks later the ship returned having met forces. The ‘tight four’, as they were known, were well balanced in capability and in the final exercise were ‘split’ evenly between the two Task Units within the FPDA Task Group, and ended up having a good stand-off (TEM and PAR versus TEK and BAL). W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Commodore Vince Di Pietro, RAN. TE MANA left Devonport in February with the “From the very beginning the visit to Vietnam their challenge and in doing so have delivered was different from what we’d experienced so significant benefits to the Defence Force and far,” said AWEO LT Sarah Smith. “The pilotage New Zealand Inc through the Asia Pacific up the river was long, but the ever-changing region. NT162aUGUST11 15 international Members of TE MANA’s crew enjoy a joke before the sail past during the fleet review in Brunei. 16 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Defence Diplomacy Exercising Soft Power Defence diplomacy is an important part of an RNZN deployment. The visit of a New Zealand frigate to a foreign port is an important sign to other nations of our country’s engagement in regional security, business, political and civil issues. Major General Ng Chee Khern, Former Air Force Chief of the Republic of Singapore, summed up the role of defence diplomacy as the development of “mutually beneficial relationships with friendly countries and armed forces to contribute to a stable international and regional environment.” An example of the value of military diplomacy is the announcement on 29 June by the Prime Minister of closer links between the New Zealand and Indian Navies on issues such as the prevention of piracy. The Prime Minister’s announcement builds on the already strong links between the New Zealand and Indian Navies. Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral Nirmal Verma visited New Zealand last year and spent several days with the RNZN. In recent years our frigates have visited Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Canada and the United States. Wherever the ships go they host politicians, business people, diplomats, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum (seen at right) reviews the Sailpast with RA Parr and (at left) First Admiral Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy. Mid Wesley Moir on the bridge of INS KESARI during a Passex with TE MANA civic leaders and members of other nation’s militaries. A highlight of an RNZN visit is often the performance of the ship’s kapa haka group, adding a distinctive New Zealand flavour to receptions and events. Extract from Joint Statement by Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh and John Key The Prime Minister of New Zealand H.E. Mr John Key paid a state visit to India from 26-30 June at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. The New Zealand Prime Minister was accompanied by the Trade Minister Hon Tim Groser, M.P. Mr. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi and a high level business delegation. The two Prime Ministers agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Prime Minister Key announced that New Zealand will appoint a Defence Adviser to India to better facilitate defence links. Both sides noted the need for ensuring the safety and security of sea lanes and agreed that regional and global cooperation should continue to ensure maritime security. The two Leaders agreed that ship visits and staff college exchanges had deepened bilateral defence cooperation to the benefit of both sides. TE MANA – Timeline of a deployment Op Craddock RSS STALWART and remainder of sail past astern of TE MANA during fleet review, Brunei. Op Cutlass: Feb 11 – Week one and two, shakedown, May 11 - Week three, participation in Devonport & Hauraki Gulf. Passage to Fleet International Maritime Defence Exhibition, Base East, Sydney with TE KAHA. Join Singapore, VIP hosting. Week four, passage HMA PARRAMATTA and BALLARAT forming to Penang, Malaysia for port visit and military ANZFOR. Week four, begin workup. diplomacy, then passage to Port Blair. March 11 – Four weeks of workup June 11 - Week one, Port Blair, Andaman exercises. Passage to Fleet Base West – & Nicobar Islands, port visit, military diplomacy Fremantle. Exercise Triton Storm with RAN and exercise with Indian Navy. Week two, fleet units. Unit Readiness Evaluation week passage to Jakarta, Indonesia for port visit four. and military diplomacy. Week three docking April 11 - Week one completes Exercise for maintenance, Singapore. Week four, Triton Storm. 10 day passage to Singapore passage to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, for with ANZFOR, exercises during passage. port visit and military diplomacy. Week four, ANZAC day. Leave period Singapore. May 11 - Week one and two Exercise Bersama Shield with X ships / Y aircraft. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z July 11 – Week one, passage to Brunei. Participation in fleet review, port visit, hosting military VIPs. Ten day passage to Port Vila, Vanuatu. Week four passage to Devonport. NT162aUGUST11 17 international Combined Task Force (CTF 151) Combating By Comm a nder M at W il l ia ms , MN Z M, RN Z N Deput y Com m a nd er a n d C h ie f o f S ta f f, C TF 1 5 1 Emb arke d in USS ANZ IO In a ceremony onboard USS MASON (DDG 87), New Zealander Captain Jim Gilmour, RNZN, assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force. year, and there are currently 17 ships under This is the first time in recent decades that a Royal New Zealand Navy officer has been an overall reduction in successful attacks commanded a major multi-national taskforce since the establishment of CTF 151 in 2009. Component Commander. We work alongside ransom, with over 400 innocent sailors being four other key military and state actors: held hostage. Although exact calculations are • t h e E u r o p e a n U n i o n N a v a l F o r c e difficult, some experts estimate the cost of ( E U N AV F O R ) — T F 4 6 5 ( O p e r a t i o n piracy in 2010 at almost $20 billion. Although ATALANTA), whose primary role is shipping piracy attacks and kidnapping have more than escort for the United Nations World Food quadrupled in the area since 2007, there has Programme with a secondary role of counter piracy; • the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and it reflects the high-regard in which New The size and shape of CTF 151 is determined (NATO)—Task Force 508 (Operation OCEAN Zealand and the New Zealand Defence Force by force flow. Force flow is the movement of SHIELD)—who has a similar mission to is held by our international partners. warships in and out of operations in the CMF CTF 151; CMF is a US-led, 25-nation coalition based Area of Responsibility; an area that covers over • a large number of independent deployers— in Bahrain. CTF 151 is one of three task forces 1.1 million square miles and includes the North nations who have chosen to deploy operated by CMF, with its primary mission to Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali their own task groups, such as: Japan, disrupt piracy and armed robbery at sea. Basin, Arabian Sea, and a large tract of the Malaysia, India, China, Russia, and the CAPT Gilmour, supported by an eclectic Indian Ocean. Some ships are assigned for Republic of Korea, that primarily operate international staff from NZ, Australia, the months at a time; others for specific tasking; independently conducting convoy escort, Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, the still others for a few days or hours. At the time but also collaborate on information sharing United Kingdom, Canada, and the United of writing, CAPT Gilmour has two cruisers, and, where possible, support counter-piracy States, is embarked in USS ANZIO (CG68), a two destroyers, and one frigate under his efforts more directly, and; Ticonderoga Class Cruiser. CAPT Gilmour is command, along with their eight helicopters! • Coastal states, including Yemen, Djibouti, the tenth Commander of CTF 151. Indeed, ANZIO herself has seven helicopter Oman, and Somalia (through the Transitional pilots onboard. Federal Government (TFG). CTF 151 was established in January 2009 with a specific counter-piracy mission-based The command and partner environment is mandate under the authority of five separate rich and complex. Combined Maritime Forces United Nations Security Council Resolutions. is headed by a US Navy three star, Vice Admiral Our mission is to disrupt piracy at sea, protect Fox, who also holds the national positions of ships of any nationality, and secure freedom of Commander US 5th Fleet and Commander US navigation for the benefit of all nations. Naval Forces, Central Command. The Deputy Piracy is a very real threat to commerce. New Commander CMF, who Captain Gilmour reports Zealand relies on sea-lanes of communication, to, is held by a Royal Navy one star officer, with over 99% of New Zealand’s trade by Commodore Fraser, who also holds the national volume carried by sea. The Gulf of Aden and position of regional United Kingdom Maritime surrounding areas is considered the world’s piracy ‘hotspot’. Somalia is the source of this modern day piracy, which has grown from the economic, social, and political strife that has gripped the country since the mid-1990s. 23,000 vessels transit the Gulf of Aden every 18 NT162aUGUST11 Commander Mat Williams (left) and Captain Jim Gilmour CTF 151 was established in January 2009 with a specific counter-piracy mission-based mandate under the authority of five separate United Nations Security Council Resolutions. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z international Piracy A visit, board, search and seizure team from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio, investigate a suspected pirate skiff. (US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bryan Weyers). TASK FORCE FLAGSHIP DISRUPTS SUSPECTED PIRATES IN GULF OF ADEN The Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 flagship “The attack was unsuccessful and the large Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel USS ANZIO, with Task Force Commander merchant vessel adhered to ‘Best Management and a Japanese Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Captain Jim Gilmour RNZN on board, Practices’ such as maintaining a 24 hour resulted in the apprehension of the suspected intercepted a skiff, successfully disrupting the lookout, removing access ladders, reporting vessel. activities of a group of suspected pirates in the suspicious activity and engaging in evasive “This co-operation culminated in the Gulf of Aden. manoeuvres. This incident is another reminder suspected pirates disposing of weapons and of how effective these practical precautions equipment that could be used for further piracy are,” said Captain Gilmour. attempts. The remaining suspected pirate ANZIO received a report from a merchant vessel that it had been attacked, and fired upon, by suspected pirates in a skiff who ANZIO was ordered to pursue the suspected paraphernalia was also disposed of when were reportedly armed with a rocket propelled pirate vessel and intercept it. Collaborative the vessel was intercepted by the CTF 151 grenade launcher and AK-47 assault rifles. efforts between CTF 151, NATO (TF 508), a warship,” said CAPT Gilmour. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 19 our people [A]Commander Sean Stewart took Command of the Navy’s Sealift and Amphibious Support Vessel, HMNZS CANTERBURY on Wednesday, 8 June 2011. Commander Stewart was born in Gore and joined the Royal New Zealand Navy on 21st January 1988. He has served in HMNZS TUI, MONOWAI, ENDEAVOUR, SOUTHLAND, WAIKATO, MANAWANUI, and was a member of the commissioning crew of TE KAHA. Commander Stewart attended Bougainville Peace Talks while onboard WAIKATO and saw operational service in East Timor, the Arabian Gulf and, Solomon Islands. He is pictured on the bridge of CANTERBURY with his wife Cathy and son Austin. [B] LPTI Marc Thomas (Left) and Leroy De Beer were among the first graduates from the 15-week advanced training course at the Defence PE&RT School at Woodbourne. The school is part of the new Defence Training Institute set up within TED (Training and Education Directorate). [C] LT CDR Louisa Gritt, RNZN, CO MST, is presented with the Hydrographic Charge certificate by CDRE John Martin, RNZN, MCC. The Certificate recognises her qualifications, experience and knowledge required to conduct all forms of hydrographic surveys as a charge Hydrographic Surveyor. [D] WOEWS Damian Morrison was awarded a Maritime Component Commander’s Commendation to recognise his pivotal role in the development of the Naval Operations Support Unit (NOSU). NOSU provides operational support in Electronic Warfare and Maritime Intelligence. CDRE John Martin, RNZN (then MCC Desig, now MCC), WOEWS Damian Morrison and CDRE Ross Smith, RNZN (then MCC). A B E F [E] On the day of his departure from Bamyan LTCDR Andrew Law, temporary CRIB 18 S9 (finance officer) was pleasantly surprised when he was given five minute to present himself at the flagpole to receive the NATO (ISAF) medal. Task Force Patriot Deputy Commanding Officer LTCOL Mark Nadig, US Army, presented the award which recognises members of ISAF contributing nations following 30 days service under an ISAF command in Afghanistan. [F] Lt Jacinda Johnston scooped the prizes at the RAN Aviation Warfare Officer course (Observers) at RAAF East Sale. She was awarded the BAE Systems Highest Academic Assessment Award, the Lt Michael Elsey RAN Memorial Trophy for achieving the highest overall mark in the flying phase of the course and, the Hawker Pacific Observer Trophy for Dux of the Observer course. CDRE (RAN) Vince Di Pietro, the reviewing officer commented that "Kiwis must be able to fly, and you come over here and pinch our trophies". [G] LT Anna Biss, RNZN received a Maritime Component Commander’s Commendation in recognition of her work during the Earthquake Relief effort in Christchurch. LT Biss worked tirelessly whilst CAN remained stationed in Lyttleton to ensure a professional standard of logistical and administration support was maintained. LT Anna Biss, RNZN and CDRE Ross Smith, RNZN (then MCC). [H] Lieutenant Layamon Bakewell took command of HMNZS ROTOITI on Thursday 23 June 2011. [I] LTCDR Steel, POSA Moses, LCH Kaa and AWTR Cook enjoying the Mekong Delta River Tour during TE MANA’s visit to Ho Chi Minh city. [J] AMT1 (P) Te Kanawa KINGI was awarded the Top Trade Student Award by the Trade Training School (TTS) at Devonport on 3 Jun 2011. The TTS introduced the Top Trade Student Award in Jan 2009 as a means to recognise outstanding achievement by students. Pictured, Shaun Dickey (HOS), AMT1 Kingi and sponsor Harry Philpott from BlackwoodsPaykels [K] Who needs a crane? LMT(P) B. Bush (Left) LMT(P) M. Hawaikirangi (Right) lift CANTERBURY's anchor during drydocking in Brisbane. See the full story on page 30 [L] To promote Men’s Health Week the three services fielded teams in a physical challenge, held at Devonport Naval Base. The series of challenges involved teams carrying each other in a fireman’s hold, running and carrying 10K strength bags, a rowing machine relay, and running through thick mud. Navy won the challenge, followed by Air Force, Army and NZ Police. I J [M] CPOSCS Kevin STINSON fits Ross Robertson, MP, with a lifejacket in the Hangar of HMNZS WELLINGTON. In June Mr Robertson spent three days in the Navy as part of the NZDF Parliamentarian programme. He described his attachment to the Navy as immensely enjoyable and his overnight stay on WELLINGTON as the highlight of his experience. [N] During March, ten members of 3.L messdeck, first commission, of the frigate CANTERBURY gathered in Blenheim for a reunion. Pictured at ‘tot time’ are: (L to R) Mort Anderson, Gary Huffadine, Bob McKenzie, Dale Hobbs, Brett Iggulden, Rod Shoemark, Terry Brennan and Tom Baker. Also in the photograph but obscured are Peter Atkinson and Doug Carson. [O] Mary Dean, a former Wren who served during WWII, was recently awarded an RSA Merit Badge by the President of the RSA, LTGEN Don McIver, for her work among ex-Servicemen and women in the Dunedin area. Mary served at Waiouru WT Station (later called HMNZS IRIRANGI) handling radio circuits between the Station and the headquarters in Wellington. While there she met her future husband, an Air Force officer who had been wounded in action and was sent to Waiouru as part of his recovery. 20 NT162aUGUST11 L M W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z our people C D G H K N W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z O NT162aUGUST11 21 our people Bell from HMNZS KIWI returns home Current and former RNZN personnel inaugural recipients of NZDSM Four former and current RNZN personnel as Chief WREN: Qualified for ‘REGULAR’ were recipients of the NZ Defence Service clasp. (21 Sept 1956). Margaret is also a Medal at the inaugural presentation at driving force in the Ex-WRENS Assoc. Parliament. Regular Service. Enlisted on 9 Apr 1973 as operational military service in the Defence WRNZS writer. Discharged 5 Feb 1981. Force by New Zealanders. Those who have Retd as Acting Petty Offr Writer. Qualified for served in the military for more than three years since World War Two, and those who did compulsory military training or national By C DR Dav i d H e d g l e y After 22 years in Australia the commissioning bell from the Inshore Patrol Craft HMNZS Kiwi is finally returning home. One night in 1989 a group of visiting sailors from HMAS Darwin decided they wanted a trophy to bring home to Australian and believed that HMNZS Kiwi sitting alongside in Lyttleton harbour would provide just the item. Under the cover of darkness they boarded the patrol boat, removed the bell and returned on board the guided missile Frigate HMAS DARWIN. In the intervening years that bell has seen plenty of the world on board the DARWIN and it recently ended up in the Childers RSL club in Mrs Carol GREEN (as Miss LOADER): RNZN The new medal is awarded for non- military service, qualify. The medal recognises the many thousands of New Zealanders that have met the demanding requirements of military service, including responding to disasters such as the Christchurch earthquakes, but have not served on operations. Up to now there ‘REGULAR’ clasp. (9 Apr 1976). Carol is the wife of former CPOSTD Tony Green, who was a recruiter for a long time, and their daughter Amanda is a LT in the navy now. Andy COURTENAY-JOHN: RNZN Regular service. Enlisted 31 Oct 1978 and discharged 3 Apr 1989. Re-enlisted in RNZN 9 Jun 1997 and discharged 10 May 2002. Prior service in Royal Navy. Qualified for ‘REGULAR’ clasp. (7 has been no recognition of this service. The Jan 1979). Andy was at OLPHERT for some medal also honours those Reserve personnel years in the course of his RNZN career. whose service comes on top of full-time commitments in civilian life. LWTR Keri BROOKING: Currently serving. Enlisted15 Jan 2003. Qualified for the Mrs Margaret BELL (was Miss KING): “REGULAR” clasp for this medal on 15 Jan Regular Navy - WRNZNS service. Enlisted 21 2006. Currently serving in Trentham at the Sept 1953. Discharged 31 Oct 1964. Retired HR Service centre. Queensland. In March this year New Zealand Defence Staff in Canberra were contacted by Mr Max Francis, an ex RAN POMTP, who believed that the rightful home for the bell should be back in NZ and he wanted to arrange its return. Clearly the Canterbury earthquakes played an important role in bringing the history of the bell to the fore and Mr Francis felt strongly that the bell should once again be part of the RNZN heritage and no longer a “run ashore trophy” for the ADF. On Monday 18 Jul, Cdr David Hedgley RNZN, the NZ Naval Adviser in Canberra travelled Mrs Margaret Bell (Left) Mrs Carol Green (right) Andy COURTENAY-JOHN (centre) LWT Brooking (Left) to Childers, a small town four hours north of Brisbane, to meet with Mr Francis and receive the bell on behalf of the RNZN. Mr Francis remarked of his fond memories of port visits to NZ and although he was not the perpetrator of the original removal of the bell he felt as a past president of the Childers RSL club that he had a duty to return the bell to its rightful home. The bell (pictured) will now return home to NZ from Brisbane on board HMZS CANTERBURY, a fitting platform to transport a long lost icon. 22 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z SEVENTY YEARS 1941 ~ 2011 Navy 70th Anniversary Celebrations 29 September – 3 October, Wellington 9 October in Auckland From 29 September – 3 October 2011 eleven ships of the RNZN will assemble at Wellington to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of King George VI granting our Naval Forces his royal recognition. Events over the weekend will include the changing of the RNZN Queen’s Colours at Parliament, a street parade of more than 300 sailors down Lambton Quay, an Anniversary Church Service at the Cathedral of St Paul and, open days onboard ships berthed at Lambton Harbour. The celebrations will culminate with a Fleet Review on Monday 3 October when the fleet will anchor in Wellington Harbour and His Excellency the Governor-General of New Zealand will review the ships from onboard HMNZS Resolution. Veterans who wish to attend the following events are invited to contact Navy Events to register your interest. Email: [email protected] or phone (09) 4455795 • Changing of the Queens Colour Ceremony • Anniversary Church Service in Wellington • Private tour of HMNZ Ships berthed in Wellington • Anniversary Church Service and laying up of the old Queens Colour in Auckland Navy 70th Anniversary Programme Wednesday 28th September Fleet concentration begins off Wellington. Fleet exercises and manoeuvres. Thursday 29th September Frigates, Naval Support Force and Off Shore Patrol Vessels arrive in Wellington. Friday 30th September Inshore Patrol Vessels arrive in Wellington. Saturday 1st October 1000 – 1200, Changing of the Queen’s Colour, Parliament Grounds. 1200 – 1230, Street Parade on Lambton Quay, Parliament to Civic Square. 1000 – 1600, Ships open to visitors, Queen’s Wharf and Taranaki Street Terminal Sunday 2nd October 1000 – Wreath Laying, National War Memorial. 1100 – 1500, Ships Open to Visitors, Queen’s Wharf and Taranaki Street Terminal. 1400 – 1600, RNZN Anniversary Church Service, Cathedral of St Pauls. Afternoon tea and ceremonial cake cutting on completion. Monday 3rd October Fleet proceeds to Anchor in Harbour, off the Interislander Berth. 1300 – 1700 Fleet Review, His Excellency the Governor General and VIP’s embarked in HMNZS RESOLUTION. 1700 - Ships begin to depart Wellington. Sunday 9th October 1000 - Anniversary Church Service incorporating laying up of the old Queens Colour in the Naval Chapel of St Christopher’s, Devonport Naval Base. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 23 F L E E T P R O G R E S S hmnzs m a n a w a n u i Sunset in the Hauraki Gulf By LT C DR Wi remu L e e f, RN Z N At times it’s very interesting being in command of the Navy’s oldest ship. Sitting back watching the rest of the fleet with their shiny hulls, bristling array of sensors and big guns could drive a man to envy of his fellow Captains; however there is lot about MANAWANUI that makes her just as interesting. To begin with, MANAWANUI is the current holder of the Chatham Rose Bowl and happily flies the RNZN Efficiency Pennant as well. Not bad I thought for a ship that, let’s be honest, not many of you have really wanted to post to. It is are faster than RESOLUTION, and we certainly one of my key concerns. We have spent a can’t achieve 17 knots on a single engine like significant amount of time working with the ODT an OPV. and Dive School which has been great. From Although we don’t have speed, we do have an an operational perspective this relationship has engineering plant built like a brick sh… house, grown considerably and we have continued and because of this we are able to keep things to look at ways of improving how the divers ticking along with a bit of elbow grease and integrate into the ship. One of the challenges an oily rag. It also makes an ideal platform for we face is bunk space, which we don’t have. engineering training, which we have been able It isn’t uncommon to have people on stretchers to offer up to numerous OMT’s stuck at NPRC so that we can maximise training and tasking over the last 12 months. It is a good feeling while we are at sea. But in the end, that’s our seeing many of the sailors who are stuck ashore job and I reckon we support the divers pretty enjoying time at sea. well, as long as those crayfish continue to find For MANAWANUI, there are only three key their way to my fridge. systems that really count, the decompression Finally one thing I noticed about this ship is chamber, the dive bell and the mooring that once you get here, it doesn’t take long system. For those of you who weren’t aware, until you love it. Yes she is slow, old, cramped MANAWANUI has four anchors (two forward and doesn’t have those sleek sports car lines and two aft), which are an integral part of our like the newer ships, but she’s got it where it of the current and previous ship’s company in arsenal. They are certainly handy when you are counts and she certainly has far more character achieving this, and in continuing to maintain asked to anchor directly over a wreck for the than many of her newer sister ships. The fact these very professional standards. certainly a good feeling being able to say ‘we are the best ship in the fleet’ (well at least for another few months anyway). In saying this, my hat must come off in acknowledging the efforts ODT. There is also the added value of actually that the crew see the ‘E Pennant’ flying from Being CO of MANAWANUI I’ve come to being able to remain at anchor when things get their mast every day reinforces this and instils appreciate that speed isn’t everything. Now a little rough. Not even 80 knots of wind (that’s that sense of pride in ‘their’ ship. We do the while I could brag about achieving 12.4 knots what the anemometer said) is enough to make yards when we need to but we also enjoy it and recently (we have an ECPINS screen capture to this old girl budge when she doesn’t want to have fun which is really important. It has been prove it), it was with the wind and tide assisting go anywhere. an interesting 18 months, and I would not have so I’m not sure if I could really claim that we 24 NT162aUGUST11 Having the people to use the systems is wished it any other way. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Seasprite 04 seen durinhg a WinchEx with a volunteer from MANAWANUI W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 25 F L E E T P R O G R E S S hmnzs H h AWEA a w e a Barely a ripple on the water, HAWEA, Milford Sound. By lt M at t k a l o In early May HAWEA set sail for her home port, before taking shelter in Patterson Inlet, Stewart helicopter approach courses and providing Westport, on the first leg of a circumnavigation Island. The wind whipped over the terrain and distraction training for three Iroquois and a of New Zealand while undertaking a multi- within half an hour of anchoring we experienced Seasprite, practicing VERTREP and winching. agency patrol of our coastline. a fast drag, followed by a one nautical mile Thursday night we embarked JOCT who had racetrack. been completing their final assessments, and During our four week patrol we visited Tauranga, Westport, Milford Sound, Stewart Island, Once the weather had calmed slightly, we put them in a life raft for the evening. Dunedin, the Marlborough Sounds and Napier forged on up the coast to Dunedin. It was The end of June saw HAWEA off Great before returning to Devonport Naval Base via not so rough on the East Coast, giving the Barrier Island assisting with Exercise Trident the West Coast of the North Island. crew a chance to practice breakdowns and Warrior, a test of civilian communications. First port of call was Westport. After watching drills. With the weather improving HAWEA set While anchored off GBI we had the pleasure documentaries of how to enter over the bar into sail for Napier, stopping in the Marlborough of hosting the Chief of Navy before returning Westport in rough weather it was a pleasant Sounds for pilotage training and aiding MFish to Devonport to conduct harbour training and surprise to find that it was a calm day as we in distribution of information on the new blue maintenance. were guided in by dolphins. From there it was cod fishing regulations. on to Milford Sound. The wind was blowing H A W E A re n d e z v o u s e d w i t h H M N Z S more than 60 knots and the sea was very rough. WELLINGTON off the coast of Napier to Inside the Sounds it was clear as glass. The conduct screenplay and a formation entry. RHIB Cox’n’s took advantage of the weather After embarking sea-riders, customs and to practise their approaches and teach the fisheries officers over the weekend; HAWEA OOW’s the ways of the Force. From waterfalls headed back down through the Cook Straight to dolphins, it was so serene; shoaling of more and up the West Coast on a fisheries tasking, than 20 metres was visible from the surface. boarding several fishing vessels as we transited From Milford we battled six metre waves to Devonport. before entering Precipice Cove, a challenging June began with OOWMANs with HMNZS anchorage that was not well charted. Later, OTAGO in the Hauraki Gulf, where SLT Smith in the open sea the ship was rolling heavily executed a tiddly manoeuvre from ahead and surfing the waves, making good 32 knots to astern. By mid week we were calculating 26 NT162aUGUST11 HAWEA preparing to launch a RHIB to board a commercial vessel. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Australian Junior Officers in HMNZS PUKAKI By MIDN C.S. LONGMORE, Royal Australian Navy SLT Bowman Trezise, RAN and I flew to New Zealand on 30 May 2011 to join LT Alex Hansen’s warship HMNZS PUKAKI to experience life in the RNZN and further our Phase III warfare training. From the outset we were made to feel really welcome by the Officers and Crew, and we eagerly anticipated our first voyage. Our first deployment was two weeks on the North Island’s East Coast in support of the NZ Customs Service. It was a great opportunity to see how IPVs operate with other agencies, Nor’west wind hits HAWEA, Patterson Inlet, Stewart Island. given the similarities with our vessels in the Border Protection Command in Northern Australia. Regular liaising with the CO, XO and Navigator made us LCH Andrew Dench (left) and LMT(P) Daniel Thompson lay a wreath at the entrance road to Pike River coal mine. aware of what we needed to improve and what progress we’d made, while life onboard an IPV allowed for getting to know your oppos quickly. The ship has a good culture with everyone having a positive attitude. That trip was followed by a PAL week alongside at Devonport Naval Base where we used the time to familiarise ourselves with the base and Auckland and prepare passage plans and pilotages for the next deployment and port visits. Our second voyage was south to Wellington focusing on Fisheries patrols and associated boardings. Our expected performance level was raised, challenging us to find our feet. Now part of the team, we immersed ourselves in launching and recovering sea boats, pilotages, anchorages, passage planning, ECCD’s, ship handling and routines. Throughout the period we put into practice the skills taught in theory and the bridge simulator at home. The IPV is a perfect deployment and training environment for junior officers and junior sailors. Pickersgill Harbour re-located! There are minor differences between operations in the RAN by Richard Jackson (ex-Editor) and RNZN and both Officers and crew were incredibly helpful Several alert readers noticed that TAUPO's report in NT 161 June referred in guiding us. Pronouncing geographic and Maori names has to Pickersgill Harbour in 'Doubtful Sound.' Of course TAUPO knew they provided a regular source of amusement for our shipmates were at the time, in Dusky Sound; it was the Editor who introduced the and with the upcoming Rugby World Cup there is plenty of error. the staff at GIO produced the attached map; the national Maritime friendly banter. Museum provided this image of William Hodges' painting, and I now know the difference between Dusky and Doubtful sounds. The first four weeks have been enjoyable and bode well for the weeks to come as we adapt to life in the RNZN with our trans-tasman neighbours. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 27 F L E E T P R O G R E S S hmnzs W e ll i n g t o n Lt White flying the Canadian flag with Shackleton’s Hut and HMNZS WELLINGTON in the background. Sub-Zero 100 Days at Sea, Life with the RNZN Lt( N) Pat r i c k Wh i t e (C a n a d ia n N av y ) Island and Fjordland, we became involved in Operation Deep Sea, As my time in New Zealand comes to an end, I thought it would be escorting survey ships and enabling boardings by the Armed Offenders prudent to reflect on a few highlights of my exchange. It’s been an honour Squad from HMNZS TAUPO, which showed off the capability of the to serve under some truly exceptional Commanding Officers and along IPV. side the outstanding sailors of the RNZN. I was in HMNZS OTAGO for its deployment to the Pacific Islands; The Southern Ocean and Cold Weather trials onboard HMNZS visiting the Kermadec Islands, Tonga, Samoa, Tokelau, the Cook WELLINGTON will remain a momentous occasion for me both Islands and Niue. Along with initiating me to the world of ‘Uckers’ that professionally and personally. Coupled with the historic landings made proved a remarkable trip, with great weather, and more than one or two at Cape Royds and the fact that in six months I’d been furthest North a outstanding runs ashore! Canadian Navy ship had travelled in modern history to the furthest south My time in New Zealand is coming to a close and as I write, onboard a RNZN ship had ever sailed, made up for the loss of two consecutive “The best little warship in the navy”, I’m reflecting not only on the places summers to sub zero temperatures! I have been, but on the people of the RNZN. It’s been an honour to have I also joined HMNZS TAUPO for a South Island fisheries patrol. After three weeks of boardings and truly exceptional scenery around Stewart 28 NT162aUGUST11 been a part of the Royal New Zealand Navy and I thank everyone who made this a truly remarkable experience. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z CHIEF OF NAVY COMMENDATION This included actively sea trials and the exploration of the lower after her delivery voyage in June 2010 and HMNZS WELLINGTON arrived in Devonport Antarctic waters. pursuing the acquisition of essential cold Ross Sea in a safe and measured manner in deployed to Antarctica for Southern Ocean weather safety and survival equipment and order to release the RNZN’s Antarctic Patrol trials eight months later. As this was the first the completion of key survival training. It also capability. This success was due to the precise deployment of an RNZN vessel into Antarctic required careful liaison with other government and detailed planning and execution of well- waters in 40 years, almost all procedures agencies, namely the Ministry of Foreign Affairs developed procedures. The ship was well led and processes had to be developed from and Trade, Antarctic New Zealand, and the and managed, and all onboard exemplified scratch. The detailed planning and preparation Antarctic Heritage Trust, to determine and the RNZN’s core values. For this courage, executed by WELLINGTON’s management complete all pre-deployment requirements. enthusiasm, resilience and professionalism team ensured the ship was ready for the cold In a short period of time the ship and its during the Southern Ocean deployment, and extreme weather conditions expected in company experienced the best and the worst in an extreme and testing environment, the lower Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea. of conditions in this beautiful, yet remote and WELLINGTON’s ship’s company is to be Each department effectively and efficiently wild, part of the world. This also included a commended. researched and implemented cold and extreme testing period during which the ship responded weather requirements. to a distress call to search for the Norwegian Attention to detail during the planning phase yacht, Berserk, in McMurdo Sound, requiring ensured that the RNZN and the ship met significant courage, patience and effort in International Maritime Organisation guidelines extreme weather conditions. and national requirements for operating in W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z WELLINGTON completed the Antarctic ABOVE: Chief of Navy, RA Tony Parr MVO, presents LtCdr Simon Griffiths with a Chief of Navy Commendation for the ship’s inaugural deployment to Antarctic waters. NT162aUGUST11 29 F L E E T P R O G R E S S hmnzs c a n t e r bu r y dock, and just in general getting CANTERBURY ready to lower down onto the blocks of the dock bottom. Now with the ship in place, it gave us all a chance to inspect and have a good look at and around the ships hull. It was a good learning experience and a chance to grasp the true size of HMNZS CANTERURY when standing underneath the ships bottom. Over the dry docking period a number of major key jobs were carried out, not just by the Ships Company but the dockyard workers. Everything from a smooth hull and new paint job, to pulling the shafts, rudders and props, to changing the underwater valves and a lot of other valve maintenance. Also tanks and voids had to be opened and inspected and cleaned. A lot of hours were put in by the engineering department working six days a week and some late nights to make up on any lost time. The Ships Company were also very lucky because it was a big sporting month in Brisbane. A lot of Ships Company attended the semi final of the Blues vs Reds and were there for the rugby final with Crusaders taking Brisbane Dry Docking on the Reds, which was a good night despite the Crusaders going down. Also some of the senior rates and officers were lucky enough to get tickets for the 3rd and final State of Origin game. The rest of Ships Company had a great time outside the stadium soaking up the atmosphere with some very excited locals. While alongside in Brisbane the ships B y L M T ( L ) Rob e r t so n a n d A M T ( L ) Graha m ship for the arrival to the dry dock in Brisbane. company that remained with the ship were This required a whole ship wash down and a accommodated at the Econolodge in Kangaroo Over the last month HMNZS CANTERBURY lot of cleaning to be done to pass Australian point approximately 7km from the dockyard. has been undertaking our first docking period in customs inspections. The next day was an early The standard of the accommodation was top the FORGACS dry dock in Brisbane. It has been start with SSD closing up in the early hours of notch and with our scran being prepared at a hectic time for the ship with the workload the morning for a gruelling six hour trip up the the Pineapple Hotel and bar across the road increasing and crew numbers dropping. Brisbane River. from the accommodation its fair to say that To begin with it appeared that CANTERBURY Once we had berthed alongside at FORGACS some good times were had by all and that we didn’t want to go into dock with a turbo failure it was time for us to ditch gash and have the were all thankful to be able to get away from on our STBD main engine forcing us back Australian customs carry out their inspections. the dock and the insane heat onboard from to Auckland for repairs and then an injector When we finally secured for the day we uplifted no ventilation. blockage when we got back to sea. But after the keys for our accommodation and got As a whole the trip has been hard work but we some serious man hours on the turbo, and settled in as another long day lay ahead for us all managed to make the most of our down time then some awesome work on the injectors by the next day. Another early start and we were and after a successful maintenance period we the Marine Engineers, in fairly tough working into it, from tagging out the majority of ships are sure most of us were ready to come home conditions, the issues were sorted. systems to assisting with getting a generator and get the next maintenance period out of the onboard to run the ships electricity while in way and get back to sea. Our focus then changed to prepping the 30 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z hmnzs e n d e a v ou r The l a s t mo nth ha s b ee n a b u sy p er iod f o r ENDEAV O U R . B e t w e e n r e b u i l d i n g t h e m a i n e n g i n e , c o m p l e t i n g S AT S , cros s i n g a v e r y a n g r y Ta s m a n S e a a n d fuel l i n g i n S y d n e y, END a n d h e r c r e w have performed exceptionally well after s uc h a l e ng th y p e r io d a lo n g sid e . TE MANA breaks away from ENDEAVOUR following rendezvous in the Bismarck Sea. ENDEAVOUR’s crew perform a haka for TE MANA on rendezvous in the Bismarck Sea. END was to have accompanied TE MANA and TE KAHA on their deployment to Singapore and Asia. The deployment was cancelled when a problem with excessive oil burn in the main engine was linked to the lacquering of the cylinders. In early June, BFL and END engineers began the arduous process of piecing back the main engine from the various components both onboard and ashore. After night of 28 June the ship was hit with a large fuelling complete and after one more day to a lot of dedicated work the big day came and swell resulting in a roll of 40º. Items strapped enjoy the northern suburbs of Sydney, it was with a cough and a splutter the old girl burst down broke free and while some cabins looked time to sail again and begin the passage to into life. In the final weeks of June END sailed a little worse for wear the following morning, Madang, a coastal city of North-West Papua for SATS and after two days at sea conducting it was the hangar which took the biggest hit New Guinea. trial after trial and a long engine run-in, both the – rowing machines, weights, bikes, benches At the time of writing, we have four and a half ship’s engineering department and elements which were all previously secured had been days to travel and the seas are calm with fair ashore were happy that END would be up to flung around like rag dolls. It was so pleasing skies. Ship’s Company have been conducting the work ahead of her. to push through the storm to calmer water and RASEX’s to ensure that the ship is ready in all the bright lights of Sydney. respects to conduct RAS serials with HMNZS END slipped silently from Calliope South at 2000 on 26 June and began the passage to A period of fine sunny weather bathed TE MANA, upon sailing from Madang. The Sydney. The meteorological reports warned of the city during the visit which provided the exercises have been ongoing during the large seas and strong winds mid-Tasman and Ship’s Company a good break to rest and transit north, and have been an excellent little did we know that two days later the ship re-energise after the Tasman crossing. But, demonstration of a whole ship evolution – every and its Company would be battling stormy before we departed Sydney, there was some member of the crew taking an important role seas and 35 knot winds. The wind was not fuel to uplift first – the reason END had to be in during the serial. With a little more practice the issue but the high swell that had built Australia. END transited the short distance to and the old END spirit, the ship will meet from the Southern Ocean caused the most Chowder Bay Naval Fuel Installation to embark TE MANA ready in all respects to conduct the significant upheaval. Sometime during the low sulphur diesel for the main engine. With first RAS of the year. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 31 New Defence Recruiting Organisation A new defence recruiting organisation was launched on 1 July, and with it a new recruiting website: www.defencecareers.mil.nz. “We now have a single organisation using a modern approach to attracting and engaging with potential recruits,” says Director of Strategic Recruiting, Commander Nigel Philpott. “We’ve taken the best from five separate organisations (three Services, Civilian and Reserve recruiting) and built a cutting-edge online system that improves the way candidates are managed. The new online system also automates the previous manual process and thereby delivers better service while costing $3 million less to run. “A key benefit of the new online recruiting system is that it frees the military recruiting field force from administrative work so they can better engage with schools, the community and target audiences. Candidates will be more objectively assessed and better managed by a single contact person from application through to attestation. This personalised approach will provide a better and more informed experience for candidates and reduce the current high rate of attrition from the recruiting process.” In addition to the new online system a sevenstrong Specialist Recruit Cell has been created with the task of finding innovative ways to attract hard-to-get professions and trades such as engineers, pilots, technicians and medics. The strategy will also mean a new focus on reaching a younger audience through TV and online media. “By engaging with people at a younger age we can build a known talent pool, ensure they take the right subjects at school and drive up candidate quality,” says CDR Philpott. A new youth TV series, Operation Hero, is scheduled to air on TV2 in August and will provide “a window into our world”. A youth focused website operationHQ.co.nz has also been established. 32 NT162aUGUST11 If you know someone interested in joining any of the Services, tell them to visit www.defencecareers.mil.nz or phone 08001FORCE to start their journey towards a career less ordinary. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Careers “When I grow I want to be a navy sailor” Inspired by his Aunt Jojo (Able Stores Accountant Jourdan Tatana-Campbell), eight year old Xavier Jordan presented the following speech to other students at a Career Goals seminar for young people in North Hokianga in June. Representing Matihetihe School at the competition, Xavier’s speech came 3rd in Year 1-5 English section. He dedicated his speech to his god father Sonny Swaanenbeck, who recently passed away. Tena koutou katoa mana (pride) and protect the seas of Aotearoa. I LOVE TO READ AND WRITE! I know that He honore he kororia Aunty Jojo says I need to be physically fit. That reading lots of books now will help me to read Ki te atua he maungarongo means I have to be able to run and exercise instructions and manuals to see how different Ki te whenua. without getting tired. I think I could practice things work. He whakaaro pai ki nga tangata katoa now by running like the wind along my beach E nga mana e nga reo in Mitimiti. Judging by my big muscles I think Raurangatira ma I can do that. No reira tena koutou I also have to be mentally fit. This means I Tena koutou tena koutou katoa. have to be able to remember things I am told Ko Xavier Jordan toku ingoa to do. When I feel like my body is getting tired, No Matihetihe ahau. Hi my name is Xavier and welcome to my interesting world. Have you ever thought about what you would like to be when you grow up? Well when I grow up I want to be a NAVY SAILOR just like my Aunty Jojo. I want to be able to wear the uniform with W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z I need to be able to motivate myself to work even harder. Even though I’m only eight years old I can still set goals to help me get prepared for the Navy now. Knowing how to count and work with numbers will also help me to be able to navigate along the ocean and solve lots of different problems. Courage, commitment, comradeship are the values that the Royal New Zealand Navy live by. I know I am brave, I know I can work hard and I definitely know how to work with others. A NAVY Sailor - that’s what I want to be when I grow up. I know I am brave, I know I can work hard and I definitely know how to work with others. NT162aUGUST11 33 Naval Heritage Book Review North Sea Warrior and, A War By Stealth By Gerry Wright The stories of two naval heroes - Lieutenant Commander Jim Macdonald DSO DSC**Mid(2) RNZNVR and Lieutenant Walter Drake DSC RNZNVR Revi ew ed b y R i ch a r d J a c k so n The wartime stories of New Zealand’s naval armed German transport with three MTBs until heroes are not often told, and yet they are it made safety of the harbour. While returning to central to our history. Two books have recently his base, he discovered a second convoy and been published by Gerry Wright that will go a pressed home a successful attack, despite the long way towards correcting this imbalance. risk of enemy air attack during broad daylight. These stories profile the heroic roles of two New He was awarded the Distinguished Service Zealanders who played key roles in the Royal Order (DSO) for this action. He was twice Navy during a time of real need. mentioned in despatches and as one of the North Sea Warrior tells the story of Lieutenant most highly decorated New Zealanders of the Commander Jim Macdonald who was New war Jim Macdonald was regarded as an “Ace” Zealand’s most highly decorated naval officer of Coastal Forces. of World War II. A War by Stealth profiles Another notable New Zealander operating in Lieutenant Wally Drake who may have sunk coastal waters during the War was Walter Drake. more enemy ships than any other New As First Lieutenant, and later Commanding Zealander in World War II, and did so without Officer of Motor Launch 106 and finally senior firing a shot in anger. officer of the 51st ML Flotilla, Lieutenant Walter In Coastal Forces Jim Macdonald commanded Charles Drake, DSC, RNZNVR took part in Motor Torpedo Boats, and soon earned a thirty four successful mine-laying operations in reputation as a daring and innovative officer. As enemy waters off the Dutch coast in the North a Sub-Lieutenant and Second-in-Command of Sea. He was awarded a Distinguished Service MTB31 he was awarded his first Distinguished Cross (DSC) in July 1944. Service Cross (DSC) in March 1942. When the Not many went to war with instructions from ship was attacked by three German E-boats ‘On High’ requiring that on meeting the enemy and set on fire, he not only fought the fires, but to ‘retire behind smoke and try again on the dived overboard to save the life of the Chief following nights until you are successful’. As while Britain had ships with limited manpower. Motor Mechanic, and also helped in the salvage well as minelaying, Wally’s contribution included New Zealanders saw active service in ships of of the ship. He was also the youngest man to the development of navigation aids to assist every type of ship from battleships and aircraft- command one of the King’s fighting ships. navigation in the difficult coastal waters off carriers to submarines, motor-launches, and Later, in Command of MTB241 he fought Europe. His last significant operation was to landing craft, and in every sea from Spitzbergen nine actions in four months and was awarded navigate the invasion force into Walcheren to in the Arctic to the shores of Japan. a Bar to his DSC. In September 1943 he was open the entrance to Antwerp. In this operation New Zealand is a small and young nation promoted to Lieutenant, and at the age of 22 involving Canadians and Royal Marines the with a well researched and documented naval became the youngest officer to command a British suffered over 12,000 casualties. history. These two new books – A War by flotilla of MTBs. Jim Macdonald was awarded About 7000 New Zealand officers and ratings Stealth and North Sea Warrior will go a long way a second Bar to his DSC in July 1944 for his served with the Royal Navy during World War II. towards providing long overdue recognition for performance in two actions, and in seven New Zealand had the manpower but few ships, the stories of two of our naval heroes. successful mine-laying operations. As Flotilla Leader, when his own ship was sunk he Copies of Gerry Wright’s books are available direct from the author ([email protected]), the Navy transferred to another and continued the Museum or bookshops. action. In July 1944 he attempted to sink a heavily 34 NT162aUGUST11 North Sea Warrior - $30.00 plus $5.00 P&P within NZ ISBN 978-0-473-16744-8 A War by Stealth - $25.00 plus $5.00 within NZ ISBN 978-0-473-14851-5 Salty Dits - $30.00 plus $5.00 P&P within NZ ISBN 978-0-473-17905-2 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z Naval Heritage Distant relatives of Q-Ship heroes meet at Navy Museum Lieutenant Commander William Sanders is one of New Zealand’s naval heroes. His actions as commander of a ‘Q-Ship’ (a naval vessel disguised as a harmless merchant ship) during World War One earned him a Victoria Cross and Distinguished Service Order before he was killed along with his crew while attempting to ambush U-48. the Navy Museum in Auckland. Over two days SANDERS VC Professor John Cauldwell from the University Royal Naval Reserve and given command of Q 21, HMS PRIZE. In April 1917 HMS PRIZE of Liverpool and Eric Welsh, a great nephew encountered the German Submarine U 93 and fought what is described as the classic Q of Saunders visited the North Head forts, War Ship action. For sinking the U-boat Sanders was awarded the Victoria Cross and promoted Memorial Museum and the many memorials to to Lieutenant Commander. Recently the grand-nephews of Sanders and the radio operator onboard HMS PRIZE, Ordinary Telegrapher Thomas Cauldwell, met at Lieutenant Commander William Sanders RNR, from Takapuna, was commissioned in the Sanders including Sanders Cresent, O’Neil’s Six weeks later, having made good the damage sustained during the action, Sanders and Point cemetery, Pewera cemetery, Takapuna his men fought an action very similar to their first, in which HMS PRIZE was badly damaged Primary School gates and Auckland Town and Sanders wounded. Although the action was unsuccessful, Sanders was awarded the Hall. Distinguished Service Order. Sanders’ Victoria Cross is the only VC Two months later HMS PRIZE had again been repaired and was at sea in search of awarded to a New Zealand naval person. It is submarines. On 13 August 1917, a submarine was sighted but it submerged without attacking. also the only 'Blue' VC awarded to a Southern That night HMS PRIZE was hit by a torpedo and lost with all hands. Hemisphere person. image: National War Art Collection, Archives NZ W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 35 SP o r t Navy Referee – NZDF Outstanding Sportsperson of the Year Lieutenant Commander Mike Hester won the NZDF Outstanding Sportsperson of the Year award at the NZDF Sports Awards in June. The award was presented to LTCDR Hester by the Chief of Defence Force LTGEN Rhys Jones. LTCDR Hester has been a nationally ranked football referee since 2004. He has controlled a number of important matches over the past eight years domestically, including two National League Finals, a Chatham Cup Final, and the LA Galaxy exhibition matches in 2007 and 2008 starring former England Captain, David Beckham. In June 2010, LTCDR Hester was one of 24 referees from across the world who officiated at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. His appointment to the Greece v South Korea match in Port Elizabeth on the second day of the World Cup broke new ground when he became the first ever New Zealand referee to control a match at the World Cup. LTCDR Hester said he was proud to receive the award from the NZDF. “The Navy not only played a significant part in developing skills I have been able to transfer onto the field of play, it also provided me with the opportunity to balance rewarding Navy roles while participating in elite sport.” Presenting the awards Chief of Defence Force LTGEN Rhys Jones said of all recipients, “For Lt Cdr Mike Hester refereeing during 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Photo courtesy FIFA / Getty Images. our soldiers, sailors and airmen and women, representing their Service is a highlight of their sporting career. When an NZDF team is chosen, it is a tribute to our personnel how quickly the inter-Service rivalry is forgotten and we truly become one Force. “ International Defence Rugby Competition Coming Soon Defence Force Rugby Teams from around the world will converge on Australia and New Zealand in October for the International Defence Rugby Competition. The 12- team competition will run from 1 – 22 October, with pool games being played in Australia, and finals rounds in New Zealand. Teams representing the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, United States, France, South Africa, Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand are confirmed to participate, with entries from China, Ireland and Samoa also possible. During the finals round teams will be hosted at Devonport Naval Base, and matches will be played to coincide with the Rugby World Cup finals. The competition aims to develop relationships between the Defence Forces and foster the values of teamwork and co-operation that are essential on the sports field and in delivering on operations. 36 NT162aUGUST11 W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z SP o r t TE MANA wins Aqua-football in Port Blair During her visit to Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands HMNZS TE MANA’s football team roused themselves bright and early (0630 kick-off to be exact) to play against INS Guldar, an amphibious support vessel at the Indian Naval Base. The game was played following an early morning downpour and can only be compared to playing in an Olympic-sized paddling pool, with water levels varying from an inch to a foot deep in places. The game was hard fought and both sides struggled with the wet conditions where any form of skill was removed and replaced with the luck of the skid, bounce or stop of the ball, depending how it hit the puddle. The hosts were 1-0 up early. TEM then conceded another goal, but scored two of her own to go into half time at 2-2. The game looked to continue this way until a goal box scramble resulted in a late goal to take TEM 3-2 up. Some impressive saves by goal keeper LMT Mathew Sara kept TEM ahead for the win. Navy Interservices Rugby League Champions for 2011 The RNZN INTERSERVICES RUGBY LEAGUE TEAM have won the 2011 Interservices Rugby League Tournament for an unprecedented third year in a row. Thanks must go to the Coaching and Management staff as well as those that participated in the training camps in the lead up to this year’s campaign. Navy Rugby league has never been stronger and we look forward to hosting at Ngataringa in 2012. W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z NT162aUGUST11 37 Main Notice Board REUNIONS No. 3 (Auckland City) Squadron Air Training Corps No 3 Sqn ATC will celebrate its 70th Anniversary in September 2011. Expressions of interest from excadets and officers are sought—we are planning an Anniversary Parade up Queen Street by the Auckland Air Training Corps Wing. Our 70th Anniversary Dinner on 10th September will be in the new MOTAT Hanger. Website, www.3squadron.org.nz, for details and a registration form. Contact: FGOFF Kirsten McKenzie, NZCF Executive Officer No. 3 (Auckland City) Squadron ATC Phone: (09) 6300 280 Mobile: 021 988 864 Address: PO Box 44 064, Pt Chevalier, Auckland HMNZS TARANAKI REUNION 2011 50th Anniversary of “The Homecoming” New Plymouth, 28 – 30 October 2011 Contact: Reunion 2011 PO Box 3250 New Plymouth 4341. Email: [email protected] RP/SN (aka CSS) Reunion 2012 Crowns and above Devonport Naval Base Queens Birthday Weekend 2012 Contact: CPOCSS (A) Anaru Moa Email: [email protected] RNZN Engine Room Branch Reunion 30 March–2 April 2012, Masterton, ROYAL NEW ZEALAND NAVAL ASSOCIATION North Shore Branch commemorative dinner to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the RNZN, and Annual General Meeting, October 1st 2011 The dinner and AGM will be held at Mozaik Cafe, 61 Constellation Drive, Albany at 1900. Early bird special price, book and pay by 01 August $60 per person, after 01 August $75 per person. Contact the Secretary, Jill Thompson sec@ northshorebranch-rnzna.org.nz, or phone 09 402 6621. Cheques for the dinner go to the Acting Treasurer, 78 Lake Road Devonport 0624 or direct debit to 01 0113 0227527 00 with your name in the particulars field and Dinner in the Reference field. 2012 RNZN Communicator’s Reunion. To be held 23 – 25 Mar 2012 in Auckland and organised by the RNZN Communication’s Association. Further information and registration details are available at www.rnzncomms.org or email: [email protected] 38 NT162aUGUST11 Contacts: Malcolm Harris 90 Cameron St Masterton Ph: 06-377-1606 Dennis R Bell Ph 06-370-1901 Fax: 06-370-1902 Email: [email protected] RNZN 1/70 intake (7th Jan 1970) 3rd Reunion To be held in Hamilton 10 – 12 May 2013. All BCTs from the this intake are welcome Contacts: Wayne Tapsell Ph 07 957 5624 or 029 2809 734 email: [email protected] Neil Brimblecombe Ph 021 831 872 Email: [email protected] Dave Franks Ph 07 8288 612 or 0274 978 925 Email: [email protected] W W W. N A V Y. M I L . N Z HMNZS ENDEAVOUR from TE MANA’s SH2G Seasprite following Rendezvous, Bismarck Sea.