Australia: Politics on Hold during Naval Visit

Three federal politicians were given a hands-on experience of life in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) recently, when they visited HMAS Creswell as part of the Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program 2013.

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, the Hon. Darren Chester MP, together with Parliamentary Secretary for Finance, the Hon. Michael McCormack MP and the Hon. Alan Griffin MP visited the base to get an insight into the training that Navy members undertake.

During their three-day visit to the region, personnel from both HMAS Albatross and HMAS Creswell provided an education into working naval establishments.

The visit coincided with the graduation of New Entry Officers’ Course 49, with Navy’s newest officers on display at their ceremonial sunset and passing out parade – ceremonial events that have occurred for generations of naval officers.

The traditional was combined with the cutting edge with demonstrations and briefings at the Royal Australian Navy School of Survivability and Ship Safety (RANSSSS) where the Parliamentarians were taken through the fire-fighting and damage repair skills required before serving at sea.

Petty Officer Nathan Ginger took time out from instructing to explain the safety measures used to protect RAN personnel in case of a chemical or biological agent attack.

“It’s rare that this equipment will need to be used, but it’s really important that each of us understands how to react if that emergency occurs,” he said.

Chief of Navy’s Senior Leadership Group were also at Creswell and were able to discuss issues that affect Navy people directly with the politicians over a BBQ.

HMAS Creswell hosts hundreds of visiting groups each year from internal and external groups alongside providing initial training, leadership and management courses for officers and sailors.

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Press Release, December 03, 2013; Image: Australian Navy