After two years in a command that encompassed four Anzac class frigates, Commander Matthew Doornbos handed over command of HMAS Anzac to Commander Belinda Wood at a ceremony held alongside Sydney’s Fleet Base East last week.
Commander Doornbos took command of HMAS Ballarat in November 2012, and has lead the ship through deployments in support of Operation RESOLUTE, the Royal Australian Navy’s contribution to border protection, before docking Ballarat for the Anti Ship Missile Defence (ASMD) Upgrade program currently underway for the RAN’s fleet of Anzac class frigates.
During the change of command ceremony the crew of Anzac formed up on the ship’s flight deck, and following a short address Commander Doornbos handed over the ‘weight of command’ to Commander Wood, which for Anzac is embodied in a full-size brass replica of an Australian digger’s slouch hat.
After taking command, Anzac’s new Commanding Officer, Commander Wood, addressed the crew to reflect on their achievements of the year, and the upcoming activities for 2015 after the crew has a well-earned short break for Christmas and New Year.
Anzac will represent Australia at the Centenary of Anzac activities at Gallipoli in April, as part of her deployment on NORTHERN TRIDENT 2015.
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Press release, Image: Australian Navy