The crew of HMAS Bathurst were able to take a break from patrolling the line at Christmas Island for Operation RESOLUTE recently so they could enjoy the Bathurst 1000 Race.
With a number of motoring enthusiasts part of Aware 3’s crew, there was excitement when Bathurst received her relief as Christmas Island Response Vessel and the Commanding Officer authorised the technical department to prepare a suitable TV antenna.
“Everyone was in high spirits when the CO gave the all clear for the antenna to be rigged to so that we could get the best TV reception for the race,” said Able Seaman Zak Critsilis one of the ET sailors onboard.
“A lot of the crew made sure they woke up early, even those who’d just come off the middle watch, to catch the start of the race at 0630 local time. Well actually, a lot of the motorheads stared watching it earlier for all of the preliminaries,” said the Navigator, Lieutenant Rachael McCann.
The junior sailor’s mess was filled with off watch crew enjoying the 161 lap race, with excitement building during the last 20 laps.
“It was great to be able to take some time out and watch the race with my mates. It was definitely one of the most exciting Bathurst 1000 runs to date.” said Able Seaman Chef Travis Porter.
The crew were in good spirits after watching the 8 hour event, and were grateful for the change in operational tempo.
After the excitement, Bathurst’s crew were ready face the challenges that lay ahead during the rest of their time on Operation RESOLUTE.
[mappress] Press Release, October 28, 2013; Image: Australian Navy