HMAS Sirius is back out at sea doing what she does best, refuelling ships for the first time since February. After an extended period of maintenance, Sirius recently left Sydney bound for the East Australian Exercise Area (EAXA) with more than 12 million litres of fuel and sporting a fresh coat of paint.
However, before Sirius could return to operational duty, her ship’s company had to complete a series of mariner competency evaluations in harbour and while underway.
The ship was assessed on damage control procedures, to deal with major machinery space fires and toxic hazards at sea, as well as boat drills, man overboard recovery and casualty management.
A critical test was a series of replenishment at sea approaches with the Anzac-class frigate HMAS Arunta which involved passing refuelling lines between the two ships as they travelled together.
Sirius’ commanding officer Commander Darren Grogan said he was proud of the results his crew had achieved.
Due to the hard work of the crew and our support agencies ashore the transition back into operation has been smooth.
The ship has proven it is materially ready, while the crew is champing at the bit to prove their worth and return home to families and friends. We couldn’t have achieved what we have without the continued support of those holding the fort back home.
Sirius is on her way to Albany, Western Australia where she will join commemorations marking the departure of the first Anzac troop convoy to the First World War on 1 November 1914.
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Press Release, Image: Australian Navy