October 2014, Issue 183 - Royal New Zealand Navy

issue 183 October 2014
SEAMANSHIP
TRAINING
MODULES ARRIVE
CAPT LAWES
REPLACES CAPT
BRUCE AS CO
HMNZS PHILOMEL
NAVY MEDIC
TRIUMPHS AT
INVICTUS GAMES
T e T a u a M o a n a – w a r r i o r s o f t h eour people
sea
1
contents
NAVY TODAY ISSUE 183 2014
DIRECTORY
Published to inform, inspire and entertain
serving and former members of the RNZN,
their families and friends and the wider Navy
community.
Navy Today is the official magazine of the
Royal New Zealand Navy. Published by
Defence Communications Group, Wellington.
Navy Today is now in its eighteenth year of
publication.
Views expressed in Navy Today are not
necessarily those of the RNZN or the NZDF.
04
Contributions are welcomed, including
stories, photographs and letters. Please
submit stories and letters by email in
Microsoft Word or the body of an email.
Articles up to 500 words welcomed, longer
if required by the subject. Please consult the
editor about long articles. Digital photos
submitted by email also welcomed, at least
500kb preferred.
COPY DEADLINES FOR NT
5PM AS FOLLOWS:
NT 185 December issue
NT 186 February issue
NT 187 March issue
Subject to change.
13 November
15 January
15 February
EDITOR:
David McLoughlin
Defence Communications Group
HQ NZ Defence Force
12
08
Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand
P: (04) 496 0219 F: (04) 496 0290
E: david.mcloughlin@nzdf.mil.nz
DESIGN & LAYOUT:
04 SEAMANSHIP TRAINING
MODULES ARRIVE
Defence Communications Group
PRINT:
06 FRIGATE SYSTEMS UPGRADE PROGRESS
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.
07
CHANGE OF COMMAND
HMNZS PHILOMEL
Feedback to rick.derham@nzdf.mil.nz on
the quality of this publication is welcomed.
INQUIRIES TO:
Defence Communications Group
08 JAPANESE WARSHIPS VISIT
10
RIP RADM JACK WELCH
12
Women’s health initiative
14
Ex Croix du sud
18
OUR PEOPLE
cover image:
22
SPEAKING OUT ABOUT DEPRESSION
One of the new seamanship training
ship modules being lowered in to its
new home at Devonport Naval Base.
23
FLEET PROGRESS
31
INVICTUS GAMES
P: (04) 496 0270 F: (04) 496 0290
Devonport Naval Base
LT CDR Vicki Stevens
P: (09) 445 5002 F: (09) 445 5014
Director Defence Communications Group
P: (04) 496 0299 F: (04) 496 0290
Defence Careers:
P: 0800 1FORCE (0800 136 723)
www.defencecareers.mil.nz
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To join or leave our mailing list,
please contact:
E: navytoday@nzdf.mil.nz
2
Photo: CPL Paul Firth.
MARITIME COMPONENT COMMANDER
Commodore John Campbell
yours aye
W
hen CN asked me to write this month’s article I really only
had one thought. It sprang out of my time on HMNZS
CANTERBURY when I recently visited her during Croix
du Sud. This exercise is based in New Caledonia and the scenario is
around humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR).
sure there is someone out there with the know-how and ability to
put this in place, with a little financial assistance.
As always I thoroughly enjoyed my time, albeit very limited, being
able to walk around the ship and talk to the crew. With some we just
had conversations about life, some about the future of the Navy and
the new ships and some were around the ship’s program for the next
year or so.
It is a truly joint exercise that combines Navy, Army and Air assets
from a number of countries including Australia, France, Canada,
New Zealand, USA. I wanted to visit CANTERBURY during the
exercise because during my time as MCC I had not been able to
witness her load or unload cargo in this type of environment; that
is, across the shore. I wanted to see the complexity (or not) of what
was involved and how all the jigsaw pieces fitted together.
One of the questions asked was about the new breathalyser tests.
This policy is not as draconian as it first seems and is a very practical
and logical step to make the RNZN a responsible employer and the
Navy a safe workplace. It brings us in line with some other major
organisations in this country who handle heavy and dangerous
equipment on a daily basis. It truly reflects our core values of Courage,
Commitment and Comradeship. How can we be true Warriors of the
Sea if we do not operate at the peak of our performance?
I was not disappointed! I doubt if CANTERBURY could have got one
more vehicle on the ship for the exercise. Like everything there is a
rhythm that needs to get moving to allow the flow of personnel and
equipment from their allocated spaces, to the armoury, to the ramp
and then embarked on an LCM (Landing Craft Medium) or one of
the RAN LCHs (Landing Craft Heavy) used in the exercise. However,
it is not over then. The same precision and management is required
at the beach where the equipment and personnel are disembarked,
corralled and then dispersed.
A final word. My thanks to the crew of LCM1 for letting me
understand the handling characteristics of the LCMs (in other words
I had a little play!). After about 15 to 20 minutes I thought I had
the basics (it is not that intuitive) and the PO asked if I wanted to
attempt a stern door marriage. After a little hesitation I accepted
and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. How did it go? The feedback
went something like this: “Not the best I have ever seen, Sir, but by
no means the worst and for a first timer pretty good.” I’ll take that
any day PO!
CANTERBURY did all this through the use of her crew, including
the Army load team and beach teams, while also conducting flying
operations with French Puma helicopters and being harassed by a
couple of role play dissatisfied locals trying to fish near the stern
ramp as an LCM was making an approach for stern door marriage.
He heramana ahau
There were some great ideas that came out of this evolution and it
is evident that the crew have been thinking about them for a while.
Two simple things to make the flow easier and readily available are
a scheduling board, similar to airport departure boards, for LCM
movements; and an electronic personnel tracking system to manage
the movement of embarked personnel. Both great ideas and I am
I am a sailor
Page 14 – Ex Croix du Sud
Above: MCC aboard CANTERBURY’s LCM1 with the ship in the background
during Exercise Croix du Sud in New Caledonia.
yours aye
3
Dead of night arrival of
ipv modules at devonport
naval
base
T
he first ship modules for the Navy’s new Seamanship Training
Aids facility arrived at Devonport Naval Base in the early
hours of 9 September to be installed in the new building now
well under construction near the Stanley Bay gate.
The modules—making up a full-size Inshore Patrol Vessel
forecastle—were brought by heavy trucks from the Wiri factory
where they were built, over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and then
to Devonport in the early hours of the morning,
to avoid disrupting other traffic.
As well as the IPV forecastle, the project includes a full-size
Offshore Patrol Vessel midships, an OPV quarterdeck sized to an
IPV dimension and a Replenishment At Sea (RAS) tower. All will be
housed in the new building.
Sailors will be able to train in safe seamanship on the modules rather
than initially in ships at sea, thus improving training and freeing
ships for sea duties. The Royal Australian Navy has a similar facility.
The facility is one part of the Navy’s Reclaiming Seamanship
Excellence (RSE) programme, designed to deliver excellence in
seamanship through a well-trained and supported Seaman Combat
Specialist Branch, complemented by a well-prepared wider Navy.
The programme stems from a review of core seamanship skills
following the death of AHSO Byron Solomon in the CANTERBURY
rigid hull inflatable boat accident in 2007. The review led to the
2010 establishment of the RSE programme, aiming to re-focus the
Navy on the core skills of seamanship.
The review highlighted that the transition to today’s more
versatile fleet, along with the reduced manning requirements
of our Protector ships, increased the complexity of tasks at sea.
Since 2010 there has been some major progress in the training
of our people, particularly the introduction of a Sea Qualifying
Seamanship Course as part of Basic Mariner Training. All new
recruits now undergo a two-week course covering the basics
of seamanship evolutions (part of ship work, berthing, slipping,
towing, height safety, boat work and Bosun’s Mate roles).
4
RECLAIMING SEAMANSHIP EXCELLENCE
As a Navy, the very platforms we undertake our work on means
seamanship is an inherent part of our daily lives, particularly given
the versatile fleet we now operate with. Launching a sea boat,
berthing a ship and conducting replenishment at sea are no longer
the domain of just the seamanship trades, as we see the likes of
chefs, stewards, writers, weapons and electrical technicians all
playing a part in these core, sometimes daily seamanship tasks.
The first course of Sea Qualifying Seamanship using the new
facility is expected to take place in April 2015.
Above: One of the modules arriving at the Base main gate.
Below: Navigating through the dark base.
Opposite page, clockwise from top: A delighted LT CDR Ange Barker RNZNR,
Programme Manager, Reclaiming Seamanship Excellence, at the new facility
as the first modules arrive; Model of an IPV forecastle takes shape; Second
module being lowered; Module being lowered.
RECLAIMING SEAMANSHIP EXCELLENCE
5
Anzac
Frigate
Systems
Upgrade
Project Update
In May the Government approved a $446 million upgrade
of the combat and related systems of the Anzac frigates
HMNZS TE MANA and HMNZS TE KAHA. The June issue
of Navy Today had five pages of extensive detail about
the project. In this article, Frigate Systems Upgrade (FSU)
team member MID Robert Drage RNZN updates progress.
I
posted to the team in June, and this has been a great opportunity
to learn about the new Weapons Electrical (WE) systems that
will make the Anzacs modern, highly capable warships. Having
the opportunity to work on a large project in Wellington, with a
hugely experienced project team, is an opportunity that very few
midshipmen get.
I have gained a lot of insight into the way major projects are run and
learnt technical details about new and old Anzac frigate systems,
through both taking minutes in meetings, and experiences such as
accompanying the Thales Australia representatives as they assessed
the Sonar on ship. This has been an invaluable posting, and I would
recommend similar postings on projects to others.
As reported in the June edition of Navy Today, the Government
announced the approval of the Project Implementation Business
Case in May, authorising the Secretary of Defence to award
contracts to the prime systems integrator, Lockheed Martin Canada
(LMC) and to other companies. The total value of the project,
including contingency, project management and NZDF capitalisation
costs is NZ$446M.
Since Government approval, the FSU team has been fully engaged
in contract negotiations, culminating in the successful award of six
contracts and two Foreign Military Sales (FMS) cases by early July.
Excluding the LMC contract with its CMS 330 combat management
system, they include:
• ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems Australia (TKMSA) for the
preliminary design phase which extends from May 2014 to
April 2015.
• MBDA (UK) for the provision of the Sea Ceptor CAMM(M)
active missiles.
• Thales (Australia) for the upgrade of the hull mounted sonar and
supply/installation of a replacement underwater telephone (UWT)
system. Both systems will be fitted in Auckland in early 2016.
• Airborne Systems (UK) for off board anti-ship missile defence decoys.
• Ultra Electronics (UK) for the provision of the Sea Sentor torpedo
defence system.
• Foreign Military Sales case established with the US Government
for the provision of Multifunctional Information Distribution
6
FRIGATE SYSTEMS UPGRADE
Above: A new BSAPS interface on an Australian Anzac frigate.
System (MIDS) Low Volume Terminals (LVTs), COMSEC
equipment and Link 16 systems.
On the personnel side, CDR Phil Eagle relieved CDR Jon Finderup
(since promoted to CAPT) as the Project Manager in May. Given that
this was only a week after the award of the ‘main’ contract to LMC,
it was a fitting achievement for CAPT Finderup after his six years of
involvement with the project from its outset. The only other change
to the project team is Mr Nick Proctor who joined the Ministry of
Defence on 21 July as the Integrated Logistics Support Manager, the
position he had held since 2008 as a LT CDR.
BSAPS Sonar Upgrade
As stated in the June article, it is intended to provide regular updates
on the Project including a series of articles on each of the systems
being provided.
The current Spherion B sonar system will be upgraded by Thales
Australia with the addition of the Broadband Sonar Advanced
Processing System (BSAPS) hardware and software, and the
underwater telephone module will be replaced with the TUUM6 underwater telephone. The BSAPS upgrade will enhance the
detection capabilities of the sonar system with its broadband signal
processing and will feed into the Operations Room’s new multifunction consoles, rather than its own dedicated display unit as it
does currently.
This upgrade will be achieved with no change to the ‘wet end’ of
the sonar, meaning the current transducers mounted on the hull
will stay, resulting in a cost efficient, but highly effective upgrade.
This upgrade is scheduled to take place in Auckland before the ships
head into their main FSU refit.
In order to carry out this upgrade, representatives from Thales
Australia conducted a condition assessment of the Sonar on both
ships at the end of August. Having done similar assessments on
Australian Anzac frigates, they commented on the high standard of
maintenance conducted on our frigates, both of the Sonar system
and the ship as a whole.
CAPT Lawes takes command of
HMNZS PHILOMEL from CAPT Bruce
C
aptain Maxine Lawes assumed command of HMNZS
PHILOMEL—the Devonport Naval Base shore
establishment—from CAPT Corina Bruce in a formal
ceremony on 3 October.
CAPT Lawes—who was promoted from Commander just before
the ceremony—joined the Navy as an Ordinary Writer in 1985 and
commissioned from the ranks in 1990.
She is the second woman to command HMNZS PHILOMEL, the
first being CAPT Bruce, who assumed command in 2010.
During her first five years of service, CAPT Lawes served in the
shore establishments HMNZS TAMAKI and PHILOMEL as well as at
sea in HMNZS MONOWAI as part of the Women at Sea Pilot Study.
After commissioning in 1990 she was promoted to the rank of
Sub Lieutenant in the Supply and Secretariat specialisation.
During subsequent training she served in shore posts and at sea
in HMNZS ENDEAVOUR and MONOWAI. She was promoted
to Lieutenant in 1992. She held many posts in subsequent years
including Aide-de-Camp to Governor General Dame Catherine
Tizard in 1994-95 and positions with the Chief of Naval Staff and
Chief of Defence Force staff.
She was promoted to Acting LT CDR in 1998 and confirmed as
a LT CDR the following year, when she was posted to HMNZS
CANTERBURY for Operation STABILISE/INTERFET off East Timor.
She returned to PHILOMEL for four months in 2000 until she was
posted to HMNZS TE KAHA as Supply Officer from April 2000 to
December 2001.
Subsequent postings included attachment to the United Nations
Truce Supervision Organisation in Lebanon and Israel. She was
confirmed in the rank of Commander in November 2005. In January
2006, she was posted as the Director Naval Corporate Services on
the Staff of the Chief of Naval Staff in January 2006. The following
December she also assumed the role of Director Naval Reputation
Management, a post she held until March 2009.
In January 2010, the then CDR Lawes was posted on exchange to
the Australian Defence Force as Directing Staff at the Australian
Command and Staff College. On return to New Zealand in January
2013, she was posted as the Commander Fleet Personnel and
Training (Support). Between June and December 2013 she was
posted on the Staff of the Chief of Navy as the Support Branch
Representative and the Deputy Project Lead for the SeaFare Project.
In January 2014, she became Executive Officer, HMNZS PHILOMEL.
CAPT Lawes holds a Masters in Business from the University
of New South Wales. She is a member of the NZDF Women’s
Development Steering Group.
Above: CAPT Bruce (left) passes the symbol of command for HMNZS
PHILOMEL, the Maurice Blood Sword, to CAPT Lawes. CAPT Lawes
commented: “CAPT Bruce is very laid back. And I’m a redhead… I hope some
of the laid back rubs off on me.” CAPT Bruce said: “I’ve lost more hair in the
role than most.”
CHANGE OF COMMAND HMNZS PHILOMEL
7
Japan Training
Squadron ships
visit Auckland
8
JMSDF VISIT
T
hree training squadron ships from the Japan Maritime
Self Defence Force visited Auckland from 2 September to
6 September engaging in ceremonial, cultural and sporting
events with the RNZN as well as sailing in formation with
HMNZS WELLINGTON.
The Navy hosted JS KASHIMA, JS ASAGIRI and JS SETOYUKI,
which had 720 personnel embarked, including 169 newly
commissioned officers.
The three ships left Tokyo on 22 May for a five-month training cruise
that took them to ports as diverse as Pearl Harbor, Havana, Panama
City, Acapulco, and Papeete before their arrival in Auckland.
As the trio arrived in Auckland harbour at 8.40am on 2 September,
the squadron flagship JS KASHIMA fired 21 guns to acknowledge
New Zealand. Devonport Naval Base returned a 13-gun salute to
honour RADM Hideki Yuasa, Commander Japan Training Squadron,
who was aboard KASHIMA.
Chief of Navy RADM Jack Steer had an official visit with RADM
Yuasa onboard KASHIMA on the Wednesday.
Next day was a busy one for the visitors, with a formal welcome
at Te Taua Moana Marae in the morning, followed by a wreathlaying ceremony at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, in turn
followed by performances at the museum of the RNZN and JMSDF
bands. JS ASAGIRI was open to the public the same day.
The visit was a particular highlight for Basic Branch Trainee
Ordinary Marine Technician Shotaro Hashimoto, 20, who was
born in Japan. His family moved to New Zealand when he was 11.
He joined the Navy in May as a recruit in Basic Common Training
(BCT) 14/02.
Being a fluent Japanese speaker, he acted as an interpreter during
the visit, including helping CN’s cultural advisor WOSCS Jack
Rudolph explain to RADM Yuasa the significance of events during
the powhiri at the marae.
“I knew about JMSDF’s tradition to have curry every Friday since I
was little,” said OMT Hashimoto. “I always wanted to have a curry
cooked by JMSDF!”
On Friday the visitors enjoyed some friendly indoor sports events
in the Fleet Gymnasium. On Saturday, the three ships sailed from
Auckland escorted by HMNZS WELLINGTON for exercises in the
Hauraki Gulf. That allowed opportunities for sailors of both nations
to swap ships (cross-decking), improve ship-to-ship coordination
and practise co-operation for future interactions.
The JMSDF ships then sailed for Sydney, planning further stops
in such places as Honiara, Port Moresby and Manila before their
scheduled return to Tokyo on 24 October.
Above: At the powhiri, from left OMT Shotaro Hashimoto, RADM Hideki
Yuasa and WOSCS Jack Rudolph, Maori cultural advisor to CN.
Below (left to right): Friendly soccer match between the RNZN and Training
Squad members of the JMSDF; The RNZN Band and the JMSDF Band at the
Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Opposite page (clockwise from top): The four ships leaving Auckland
harbour, viewed from JS KASHIMA. HMNZS WELLINGTON is at left; At the
powhiri for the Japanese visitors; CDRE Wayne Burroughs RNZN and RADM
Hideki Yuasa about to lay wreaths at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
JMSDF VISIT
9
RADM Welch
A leader and mentor
R
ear Admiral Jack Welch, CB, RNZN (Ret), Chief of Naval Staff
from 1994 to 1997, was a leader and mentor who is fondly
remembered by those who served with him.
RADM Welch died on 12 September, age 73. His service and
remembrance was held at the Chapel of St Christopher, Devonport
Naval Base, on 22 September.
“Everywhere he went people remembered him,” Chief of Navy
RADM Jack Steer told the service. “He was just not the type of guy
who quietly slipped in and then moved on. He made a difference
wherever he worked. Since he crossed the bar I have received many
emails with the words gentleman, fine man and mentor in them.
That in a way sums up his contribution to the men and women of
our Navy.”
John Edwin Nugent Welch was born in Wellington in 1941. After
attending Rongotai College, Wellington and Kings High School
Dunedin, he joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as a cadet on 11
March 1959.
His initial training was carried out at the Britannia Royal Naval
College, Dartmouth.
He joined HMNZS TARANAKI in August 1961 at Portsmouth for the
ship’s delivery voyage to New Zealand and spent the following year
on board which included a deployment to the Far East.
He also qualified as a submariner to Reserve Standards in HM
Submarine TAPIR before joining HMNZS PUKAKI for Operation
Deepfreeze work in the Antarctic and a deployment to the Pacific
Islands and Australia.
He was subsequently appointed Navigation Officer of HMNZS
TARANAKI and completed a deployment to the Far East during the
“confrontation” period in 1965 and early 1966.
Between 1966 and 1970 he was Executive Officer of the
minesweeper HMNZS INVERELL, Officer in Charge of gunnery
training at HMNZS TAMAKI, Commanding Officer of the fishery
protection motor launch HMNZS MAKO and Gunnery Officer of
the frigate HMNZS OTAGO.
In 1973, following service in Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral
Welch was the Gunnery Officer in HMNZS CANTERBURY during
which time the frigate was deployed to Mururoa Atoll during the
French nuclear test period of that year.
“Like many other officers and sailors in our Navy, Jack Welch was our
leader and our mentor,” CN said. “We felt that he cared for us all.
We all tried to make his life as challenging as we could, especially
me on more than one occasion, but he met all those challenges with
a smile, mostly, and a supportive word. It is fair to say that I would
not be standing here today as the Chief of Navy without the advice,
guidance and support Jack Welch gave me over many years.”
RADM Welch was posted to the Naval Staff in August 1980. He
attended the Maritime Tactical School at HMS DRYAD before
assuming command of HMNZS CANTERBURY in January 1983.
During his command, the ship was employed in Indian Ocean
patrols as part of Operation Armilla.
He was re-appointed Fleet Operations Officer the following year
and was responsible for co-ordination of the salvage operations of
the Greenpeace flagship RAINBOW WARRIOR after French agents
sank it in Auckland harbour in 1985.
He was posted as the Midshipman Training Officer at HMNZS
TAMAKI from 1974 to 1976 and took command of HMNZS INVERELL
for a short period before being promoted to Commander in June
1976 and appointed Fleet Operations Officer on the Staff of the
Commodore Auckland.
He was promoted to Captain in December 1985 and became
Deputy Assistant Chief of Defence Staff (Personnel) in Wellington.
In February 1988 he was appointed as the first New Zealand
Defence Attaché in Ottawa, Canada. He returned to New Zealand
in December 1990 and was employed on special duties associated
with preparing the 1991 Defence White paper.
In 1978 he attended the Joint Services Staff College in Canberra; the
Maritime Tactical School at HMS DRYAD, United Kingdom and in
November of that year took command of HMNZS OTAGO.
He was appointed as the Chief of Naval Staff and promoted to
the rank of Rear Admiral on 8 April 1994. He remained in this
appointment until his retirement on 7 April 1997.
RADM Steer, then a Lieutenant, served as Navigating Officer during
RADM Welch’s time as OTAGO CO and described it as one of the
highlights of his naval career.
RADM Welch was made a Companion of the Most Honourable
Order of the Bath in the 1996 New Years Honours List.
10
Obituary
He is survived by his wife Adrienne and their three sons.
Sailor of the Year has
inspirational USA study tour
By LPTI Lou Thyne
A
s part of getting the Sailor of the Year award for 2013, I
was invited to partake in a study tour to the United States
of America between 8 August and 20 August. As part of
the tour I visited Washington DC, Chicago and Hawaii. The tour
programme was designed to broaden my professional experience
by exposure to inspirational senior leadership.
I was fortunate enough to share this experience with my mum,
Krystyna, who attended all official calls and tours with me. The
first tour on the list was a tour of the US Naval Observatory
(USNO) in Washington DC. The USNO provides astronomical
data and products and serves as the official source of time for the
U.S Department of Defence and a standard of time for the entire
United States.
Included in this tour we were lucky enough to visit The James M
Gillis Library, which holds one of the most complete collections
of astronomical literature in the world. On completion of the
USNO tour we were straight in the car and off to the Walter Reed
National Military Medical Centre.
This was one of my absolute favourite visits! We conducted
a walking tour of the centre and some of the main features
we visited were the GAIT LAB (walking posture), CAREN LAB
(Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment) FATS LAB (Fire
Arms Training Simulator), Therapy Pool, Prosthetics production,
Fitness Centre and NICoE (National Intrepid Centre of Excellence).
The rehabilitation and psychological health facilities that are
supporting the US military are impressive and truly world class.
Day three saw us off to the Pentagon, I had to pinch myself
numerous times as I could not believe that a girl from Christchurch
New Zealand was about to step foot in one of the most powerful
buildings in the world, not to mention meeting the first Four-Star
female admiral of the United States Navy [ADM Michelle Howard;
see the photo of the meeting on page 17 of Navy Today 182]. What
a privilege!
During my time in the Pentagon I met with various influential
members of the USN. Some 23,000 military and civilian personnel
work in the Pentagon. It comes equipped with a multi million
dollar athletic centre, food court, Starbucks and, wait for it, a
mini shopping mall! It would have been rude of me not to indulge
in a little retail therapy! I was taken down the corridor which is
dedicated to the Anzacs—the walls are filled with photos of current
serving members of the Defence Force but also our fallen heroes.
For a second I felt close to home even though I was thousands of
miles away.
Another highlight of my tour was visiting the Great Lakes, where
their Training Command Centre is, about 45 minutes from Chicago.
Every Friday for 48 weeks of the year up to 700 recruits will
graduate from their Basic Common Training. After having breakfast
with the recruits we conducted a tour of BATTLESTATIONS 21. This
is the US equivalent to the E-Cup our recruits undertake as part
of the Directed Readiness Evaluation week at Tamaki Leadership
Centre, on a much larger scale.
It was produced by Disney Studios and is complete with sounds
and smells, not to mention a building containing a life sized replica
of a destroyer. I was privileged enough to observe the Capping
Ceremony and Recruit Graduation. This ceremony was really
impressive and reminded me of a Hollywood production. However
this did not take away the patriotic feelings and absolute pride the
recruits feel about serving their country.
We conducted numerous activities to experience the cultural
aspects of the US military and the USA in general. These included
a self-tour of the National Mall in Washington DC, an organised
tour of the Capitol, attendance at a Baseball game at Wrigley Field
in Chicago (GO THE CHICAGO CUBS!), and visit to Pearl Harbor in
Hawaii (USS MISSOURI and USS ARIZONA).
Being able to share all the experiences with my mother has
certainly given her an understanding of what the RNZN means to
me. Until now it has been hard for me to articulate what we do,
why we do it and the importance of our organisation.
If anything this study tour has shown me the importance of good
leadership. To me leadership does not automatically happen
when you reach a certain pay grade, or when you become a senior
member in your chosen field. A leader is someone who is not only
self aware but also socially aware. More importantly a leader has
the ability to motivate their peers.
Leadership is not just about managing or directing but more so
having the ability to inspire or influence others towards a common
goal. You don’t need to have seniority to become a leader. To me
you just have to be passionate about your job.
Above: LPTI Lou Thyne with two American sailors during her tour.
Sailor of the year
11
Teal
of
a
time
as Navy supports International
Gynaecological Cancer
Awareness month
T
he Navy and New Zealand Gynaecological Cancer
Foundation have joined in a new three-year charity
partnership aimed at increasing awareness of ‘below
the belt’ cancers.
September was International Gynaecological Cancer Awareness
month. The Navy ran initiatives such as bake-offs, sausage sizzles
and raffles to raise awareness and funds for the foundation.
Three women are diagnosed and one dies every day from a ‘below
the belt’ cancer in New Zealand—ovarian, cervical, uterine/
endometrial, vaginal or vulval.
CDR (now CAPT) Maxine Lawes said at the start of the month
that the Navy was excited about supporting the foundation.
“Since we have began talking about it, a number of women have
shared their own or a family member’s experiences of ‘below the
belt cancers’. Our support is not only about fundraising but also
about raising the awareness of the various cancers.
a light on an area of women’s health that was often ignored and
rarely openly discussed.
“By raising awareness of these cancers including the signs and
symptoms, we are helping to look after the health and wellbeing
of women serving in the Navy and at the same time normalising
the conversation, which is so important to making a long-term
difference in this area. We are looking forward to working
with the RNZN and excited about the opportunities that this
partnership provides to raise awareness in our armed forces.”
The first event held for the month was on September 9 with the
first of two ‘Morning Teals’—morning teas with a teal theme, the
foundation’s signature colour.
It was a cracker! There were teal balloons, teal cupcakes, teal
ribbons, and even some teal coloured attire aired in the tealed
Vince McGlone Galley. A venerable sea of teal!
“We hope our slogan of ‘Get going for gynae—take care
down there’ will start a conversation, so people will not feel
embarrassed to talk about ‘women’s bits’ and maybe they will be
encouraged to report concerns to health professionals.”
The generous community that supports our Navy also donated 12
spot prizes which were randomly presented during proceedings.
Our sponsors were Alice Arndell, Velvet Delight, Hot Shots, Asahi
Restaurant, Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, Magnolia Kitchens and
Torpedo Bay Café.
Michelle Quirk, the foundation’s general manager, said the
organisation was delighted to be working with the Navy to shine
The Navy community was also invited to contest in a bake-off
that was judged by two notable Auckland bakers— Brooke Clarke
12
WOMEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE
of Velvet Delight and Bernadette Monk of Magnolia Kitchen—
who had to sample 23 stunning cakes, cup cakes, muffins and tarts
entered by 16 different bakers and five chefs.
First place was won by AMT(P) Nicole Van De Pas for her Red
Velvet Cupcake. Second prize went to LT CDR Dani Guy for her
Chocolate Chip Cookies and Third to Mrs Jodie Trainor for her
Fudge Brownie. The baking was then shared amongst the more
than 120 paying guests, along with a lot of other Morning Teal
goodies baked and donated by members of our wider family.
The price of enjoyment was a donated gold coin here and there
for the pleasure of partaking. The Morning Teal was deemed a
huge success and Ms Quirk and her team from the foundation
were thrilled at the level of support shown. A second Morning
Teal was held on 23 September.
A sausage sizzle was held on Base at lunchtime on 16 September.
The Navy PTIs held a 100km Fun Run at the Ngataringa sports
ground on Wednesday, 24 September. Thirty-five teams
registered to participate in it, with prizes for innovations such as
the best fancy dress and fastest lap.
The naval arts community was canvassed to participate. The
response was overwhelming and of a humbling standard—
the quality of the artworks was spectacular. The fund raising
committee held a silent auction of the artwork in a Trade Me
online auction for two weeks from 8 September to 18 September.
Our artists were mostly from within the Navy community, with a
few pieces donated by external artists.
Finally, three raffles were run with prizes including a gourmet
bbq hamper donated by the Naval Community Organisation,
an Alice in Bakingland cookbook and the Little and Friday
“Celebrations” Cookbook.
The NZ Gynaecological Cancer Foundation: Despite the impact the
five gynaecological cancers have on New Zealand women and families,
it is an area of women’s health that does not receive the attention it
deserves. The foundation is the leading New Zealand charity working
for change. To learn more, visit the foundation’s website at www.nzgcf.
org.nz and follow it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NZGCF
Opposite page: Some of the happy crowd at the Morning Teal.
Below (clockwise from top left): Warrant Officer of the Navy WOCH Steve
Bourke draws prizes from a bowl held by Lissa Jackson, Naval Community
Organisation manager; Bake-off judges, Bets Monk from Magnolia Kitchen
and Brooke Clarke from Velvet Delight with first place winner AMT(P) Nicole
Van De Pas; Naval Community Organisation amenities assistants ACWS
Marie Biddle and OMT(P) Daryl Read walking sandwich boards advertising
the NZGCF Sausage Sizzle Fundraiser; Enjoying the Morning Teal.
WOMEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE
13
Ex croix du sud
An officer’s view:
Exercise Croix du Sud helps develop
NZ’s Joint Amphibious Task Force aim
By LT Tenisha Cawte, RNZN
E
xercise Croix du Sud is a combined and joint exercise hosted
by the French Armed Forces of New Caledonia (FANC) every
two years. The general scenario is that there are numerous
small islands, several of which have or are having political and
ethnic struggles. A cyclone hits the fictitious Republic of Ponant
which provides a catalyst for violence to spread under the influence
of the equally fictitious and belligerent Belle Ile Federation.
Responding to a call for assistance to the United Nation from
the Republic of Ponant, a multi-national taskforce arrives and
conducts an amphibious lodgement by landing troops ashore to
carry out a Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation.
Additionally the taskforce conducts Non-Combatant Evacuation
Operations where expatriates are withdrawn from the violent areas
concurrently with Security and Stability operations.
HMNZS CANTERBURY was the Command and Control platform
for the maritime component of the exercise as well as the Primary
Control Ship for the amphibious lodgement. The RNZN Deployable
Hydrographic Survey Unit also participated, conducting Advance
Force Operations which included beach reconnaissance and
surveys. The NZ Army provided an Amphibious Beach Team which
co-ordinated the move of the landing force once they reached the
beach head.
The Army contingent were landed from CANTERBURY as part of
the amphibious lodgement and carried out land force operations
ashore on the non-fictitious island of Lifou. The NZDF also provided
staff for the Combined Joint Task Force battle staff and the French
headquarters in Noumea from where the exercise was co-ordinated.
Phase one of the exercise was Force Integration Training and
involved CANTERBURY and VENDEMIAIRE working together in a
series of Officer Of the Watch (OOW) manoeuvres and a surface
exercise to locate and engage the opposing force played by LA
GLORIEUSE. During this period CANTERBURY also achieved
Replenishment At Sea approaches with VENDEMIAIRE and
MEDEVAC training in the FANC Army base in Noumea for the ship’s
Seasprite helicopter.
At the end of the Force Integration Training CANTERBURY returned
to Noumea on 28 August to embark New Zealand, French, and
Australian military vehicles as well as New Zealand, French,
Canadian, and Australian troops and United States Marine Corps.
On completion, CANTERBURY sailed from Noumea and anchored
at Ire Baie (Blue Beach), in preparation for the next phase, the
amphibious rehearsal.
On 30 August, MCC Joint Forces New Zealand CDRE John. Campbell
embarked via French PUMA helicopter and was accommodated
onboard CANTERBURY for two nights. Conducting an in-company
transit, CANTERBURY then proceeded to anchor off Lifou to carry
out final preparations for the actual amphibious lodgement.
It was now D-Day, 31 August and CANTERBURY was tasked to
move 51 embarked vehicles ashore to Lifou. This meant that HMAS
LABUAN, HMAS TARAKAN and CANTERBURY’s landing craft
would conduct stern ramp marriages to take Australian, French, and
New Zealand Army vehicles and the troops ashore. Simultaneously,
French Puma helicopter operations were also conducted enabling
the Commander of the FANC (General Luc de Revel) to visit the
taskforce and to meet MCC.
We began the exercise on Monday 25 August. CANTERBURY
was one of seven ships participating. Other ships included FS
VENDEMIAIRE, FS LA GLORIEUSE, HMAS LABUAN, HMAS
TARAKAN, RVS TUKORO (Vanuatu), and VOEA PANGAI (Tonga).
The next few days were spent conducting training serials with the
other nations, including embarking a French Improvised Explosive
Device Team to eliminate a ‘For Exercise’ IED found onboard
CANTERBURY, Casualty, and Morgue-based exercises with the
French, and more OOW manoeuvres.
During the exercise, our Commanding Officer, CDR David Turner
carried out the duties of the Maritime Component Commander,
the Commander of the Task Group, the Commander Amphibious
Task Force and the Senior National Officer which was probably
the first time that this level of command and control had been
exercised. The CTG Battle Staff embarked onboard were comprised
of Australian, French, and New Zealand personnel, with a number of
our own ship’s company in dual roles.
On the final exercise day at sea, CANTERBURY received
distinguished guests as part of the VIP Day via French Puma
helicopter. Simultaneous amphibious operations were conducted
to recover all 51 military vehicles sent ashore earlier. On completion
of loading, CANTERBURY conducted an overnight passage back to
Noumea and spent the next day alongside disembarking vehicles
and conducting a deep clean of the cargo space and all NZ Army
vehicles in preparation for the return to NZ.
14
Ex Croix du sud
A rating’s view:
Cross-deck experience
to FNS VENDEMIAIRE during
exercise Croix du Sud
BY ACH Mita Hokai-Mataia
”Bon appétit,” the chefs said as we ate our a la carte meal.
“Merci,” our French hosts replied. These are the sort of
mannerisms the French display and I really enjoyed seeing this.
The FS VENDEMIAIRE had a very homely feel about her. Myself
and another rating (ASTD Jean Merito) were lucky enough to be
selected to cross-deck with FS VENDEMIAIRE during Exercise
Croix du Sud. For me this was a huge privilege, as this was my
first RNZN ship posting.
The stern ramp onboard HMNZS CANTERBURY was lowered
and we were loaded aboard one of VENDEMIAIRE’s RHIBs and
from there we were taken to their ship. It was a very bumpy ride.
Onboard VENDEMIAIRE we were greeted by an officer who took
us to our rooms where we unloaded our bags. An equivalent to a
chief senior rate then took over. He offered us a drink, and in the
drink choice he included beer! But as the responsible sailors we
are, we declined. He showed us around their ship. We got a lot
of “hellos” and welcomes which made us feel comfortable. I was
very interested in the chef’s office as it was in the dry store. His
computer was next to sauces and hanging salami.
After our brief tour we were straight into it, I was detailed off to
change into chef rig and work began.
The sailor who took charge of us spoke little English, but the
gestures and food knowledge made it easy to understand what
he wanted. The menu for that night was snails and tomato sauce
in a pastry case, a fish parcel with julienne vegetables and fresh
yoghurt for dessert. The ship’s company is 100, so we had to
prepare for this number. We made 100 fish parcels. Then my
next job was to flambé the snails in a 45 per cent aniseed based
liqueur. This was a first time experience, so it was awesome! In
no time as per usual for a chef, it was service time at 1800.
VENDEMIAIRE has two services for dinner; one at 1800 and
one at 2000, coming from a one dinner service galley. I felt
that this was odd. We cleaned up the galley by 2115 and I was
detailed off one last job which was to help the baker with his
first batch of baguettes.
Above: ACH Hokai-Mataia cooking French cuisine onboard
FS VENDEMIAIRE.
The baker was a very enthusiastic man. He tried his best to
explain his recipes and the technique he used, but he just ended
up talking in French and carrying on. He played rugby, so when
I gave him a silver fern badge to trade, he was very happy. In
return he gave me one of his past operational shirts. I made five
baguettes and for my first baguettes, I am very proud of them.
They were not up to his standard, but he was happy. At about
2300 he jagged me in and it was bed time.
In the morning, I was politely greeted by each person I saw with
a handshake and a “bonjour” to start the day; I thought this was
great for morale! After a few briefs with the French officers in
French, and a broken English brief from the French flight, we
were soon on our way home to HMNZS CANTERBURY onboard
a French helicopter. It was good to be home and I am grateful for
my experience onboard the FS VENDEMIAIRE.
While alongside in Noumea, CDR Turner attended the closing
briefs and ceremony for Croix du Sud 14, which officially concluded
the exercise.
Overall, Croix du Sud was a great exercise for HMNZS
CANTERBURY. It provided relevant and realistic training in a part
of the south west Pacific where our unique and flexible capabilities
can make such a difference should we be called upon to respond
to a natural disaster. Participating in the exercise supported the
development of our own amphibious capabilities; key learnings
from this exercise will be applied to our efforts to have the Joint
Amphibious Task Force fully operational by 2015.
Opposite page: HMNZS CANTERBURY during the exercise.
Left: Australian, French and New Zealand Navy and Army personnel
onboard FS VENDEMIAIRE where the Australian and New Zealand navies’
hydrographic survey teams had been.
Ex Croix du sud
15
A civilian’s view:
THE SHIP THAT NEVER SLEEPS
By Amy Trlin, NZDF civilian
I
t’s raining and shows no signs of letting up as I make
my way to the port in New Caledonia. Dragging an
embarrassingly large suitcase behind me I begin to question
my packing choices as I reach the floating fortress that is
HMNZS Canterbury, the Royal New Zealand Navy’s largest
ship. There is no time to ponder if packing a litre of sunscreen
was strictly necessary though as I’m soon inside a maze of bootlined corridors meeting the 140-strong crew that make up the
ship’s company.
It’s clear that a trade badge only describes one of at least three
different roles personnel have onboard. Not only does the Medic
treat the sick in the onboard hospital, but you can also find him
hauling lines at the forecastle or doing the dishes in the galley
after breakfast. The Naval Police Officer is just as likely to be
found outside on the flight deck controlling helicopter landings
as she is in the office dealing with disciplinary issues. Everyone
works so hard, and the ship positively hums with productivity.
By day three I’m quickly getting used to the pipes over the
loudspeakers alerting the crew to a multitude of horrors. Toxic
gas, fire, man overboard and bomb scare alarms are the daily
norm. These drills allow the crew to practise their responses
in emergency situations, and observing the team efforts I’m
comforted by their calm demeanours and leadership in action.
Daily ‘wakey wakey’ pipes and accompanying musical delights
remain a recurring horror.
Moving from the bridge to the cargo deck I start to orientate
my way around, sometimes successfully. Lieutenants and Able
Rates work alongside each other on the bridge, the high pressure
task of safely navigating the 9000-tonne vessel filling the warm
air with serious tension and concentration. A floor below in the
Joint Ops room Australian, French, Canadian and Tongan accents
intermingle with the Kiwi twang.
16
Ex Croix du sud
In the galley, chefs sing along to Lorde and Avicii as they cook
breakfast for over 300 personnel. Eggs, bacon, sausages, hash
browns, porridge, cereals, fresh fruit and yoghurt are all on offer.
Dinner menus including lasagne, chicken drumsticks, seafood
chowder and grilled hoki are being finalised. Preparation for
tonight’s dessert, a hot fudge cake requiring nine kilos of sifted
flour, is underway.
A French Puma helicopter gracefully lands on the flight deck
behind the Seasprite, carrying two pretend casualties as part
of the exercise, two French medics and a doctor. The Royal
New Zealand Air Force maintenance team swings into action,
lifting the casualties on stretchers into the hangar. They are
met by the onboard medics and quickly whisked away to the
onboard hospital.
Down another two flights of stairs lies the cargo deck. The
vast space has been expertly packed with over 50 military
trucks by the dedicated New Zealand Army movements team
who assure me that all of those years playing Tetris are finally
paying off. It’s an impressive sight and an example of the close
collaboration required between Services and nations for the
exercise to be a success.
In the very bowels of the ship I reach the Machinery Control
Room, a hive of activity with engines whirring, steel grinding,
technicians conducting checks and monitoring computer
activated alerts. Wearing ear muffs that render everything white
noise and forced to rely on charades, I eventually manage to
grasp which tanks turn sea water into drinkable water and which
tanks are used to balance the ship.
The descent down through the ship ends in the ‘void’, the empty
area between the outer skin of the ship and its inner workings.
The pristine, narrow space unexpectedly soars up stories above
CDF Message
LTGEN Tim Keating, Chief of Defence Force
Growing the people we need and better
supporting our military families
N
our heads. It’s eerily quiet and almost cathedral-like, waves lapping
against the hull the only sound to be heard. It seems to be the only
place onboard that belies the bustling energy, passion and drive of
all those within.
Thank you to the entire ship’s company for being so welcoming
and sharing your stories with me. A special shout out to LSTD
Marieta Makasini, PONP Nicole Mattsen and POHCM Tiffany Kalin
for also sharing your home.
Opposite page: RHIB returning to HMNZS CANTERBURY as night falls on
completion of a personnel transfer.
Above (from top): PONP Nicole Mattsen directs a French PUMA Helicopter
on HMNZS CANTERBURY’s flight deck; US Marines helping out in the
galley on HMNZS CANTERBURY.
ZDF is dependent
upon well-trained and
passionate people to
deliver the outcomes required
of us. That is why we need to
build a new sustainable forcegeneration model that delivers
the right people, capability
and capacity.
To move this forward I recently
held a People Capability Summit
where I charged NZDF’s leaders
to ‘re-imagine’ how we would
do this.
The top five out-takes of the day were:
• We need to be more responsive and helpful with people’s
requests around their career
• We should work hard at keeping attrition low
• We must develop our workforce diversity to reflect the
changing demographics of New Zealand
• We need to simplify some of our rules and processes to attract
prospective personnel
• And, finally we must make it easier for people to move in and
out of NZDF.
We also discussed how to better connect military families to the
Defence Force and planning to achieve this is underway (page 30,
Sharing Parental Leave).
My expectation is you will begin to see a marked shift in our
approach in the next few years which will make the New Zealand
Defence Force an ‘Employer of choice’ and the Armed Forces a
‘Career of choice’.
Some of the wins we have had recently are:
• The work done in a report on uniformed women—now
we have a blueprint to make sure there are no barriers to
women having a successful military career and to stand up a
programme of activity.
• A recent 2014 remuneration package—pay and conditions are
vitally important.
• A new healthcare policy focusing on maintaining operational
outputs, but recognising we need to provide our military
people good healthcare so we can deliver operationally.
• Streamlined insurance cover (Death and Disability Insurance—
DDI) to cover both military and civilian staff.
Our goal is to lead, train and equip people to win and we have
made tangible progress already. With morale up, attrition down
and an active focus on attracting and keeping people with the
skills needed to make the Armed Forces a desirable career, the
Defence people priority is on solid ground.
CDF’s Five Priorities
• A single plan for the NZDF implementing the DMRR—
investing in smart capability, focused on excellence
• Focusing on the delivery of our core military skills towards
the tasks expected of us by Government and the people of
New Zealand
• Growing the people we need and better supporting our
military families
• Greater partnering with other agencies and other militaries
• Stronger leadership, better governance and improved
management
Priority one, the single plan, is already under development, with
our new four-year plan to be released soon.
CDF MESSAGE
17
01
02
05
06
08
04
1. Powhiri for the new recruits of Basic Common Training (BCT) 14/03, Te Taua Moana Marae, 10 September. 2. Honour
Guard for the funeral service for former Chief of Naval Staff RADM Jack Welch, with officiants CDR the Rev Nigel Whinney
RN (Rtd) and Principal Navy Chaplain Colin Mason RNZN. 3. OCWS Maxine Kearns at the graduation ceremony of Able
Communications Warfare Specialist course 14/02. 4. AEWS Joshua Burnton at the NZDF GEOINT Conference at the
Ngataringa Sports Complex, team building event with musical instruments. 5. LT CDR Iain Bradley presents the Dux Award
to OCWS Kabil Young at the graduation ceremony of Able Communications Warfare Specialist course 14/02. 6. Attestation
ceremony for the new recruits of Basic Common Training (BCT) 14/03, at the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, 10 September.
18
Our People
03
07
09
10
7. LT CDR Graham MacLean, CO HMNZS WELLINGTON, left, welcomes GEN Sverker Goranson, Supreme Commander of
the Swedish Armed Forces, onboard the ship during an official visit to Devonport Naval Base, on 26 September. 8. All in
fancy dress for a Charity Fun Run for the NZ Gynaecological Cancer Foundation, 24 September. 9. One of the many warm
homecomings on HMNZS CANTERBURY’s 9 September return. 10. Bob Batt, 92, the oldest surviving veteran of the Battle
of the River Plate and his great-nephew, LT Jonathan Bentin at the Navy’s 73rd Birthday church service at Old St Paul’s in
Wellington, 28 September. The service also marked the launch of commemorations for the 75th anniversary of that battle,
which took place on 13 December 1949.
our people
19
ENDEAVOUR CO WINS SAFETY AWARD
FOR SHIPBOARD INITIATIVES
T
he Commanding Officer of HMNZS ENDEAVOUR, CDR
Sandra Walker was the winner of the Best Significant
Safety Initiative in the recent inaugural NZDF Health and
Safety Awards.
The awards are a new initiative designed to champion and
recognise those who strive to make the NZDF workplace
environment as safe as possible.
NAVOSH (Navy Occupational Safety and Health) manager
Gerard Jackson was a finalist for NZDF Safety Person of the Year,
narrowly losing out to SGT Glen Abbot from the NZ Army, who
won the award for his work on Personal Floatation Devices.
Since taking command of ENDEAVOUR, CDR Walker has been
fully focused on improving safety and providing a safe ship for all
personnel serving onboard.
She has been instrumental in building a safety culture and getting
the ship compliant with the Health and Safety in Employment Act.
“I have a great team and we’ve been doing some good things in
this space,” CDR Walker said of her award.
Deputy Chief of Navy, CDRE Dean McDougall has been
particularly impressed with CDR Walker’s dedication to Health
and Safety.
“CDR Walker has been focused on the safety and compliance of
her ship,” he said. “These efforts have produced not only great
results in compliance for her ship but will provide an influencing
document for the Maritime Supply Capability project.
“She has been a significant influence on the Navy’s senior
leadership and continuously challenges her staff and the Navy
with the aim of educating others.”
On duty
with CTF 151
By POCSS(A) Jonathon Brooke, CTF 151 BWA (Bubbles)
“A
merchant vessel has reported being approached by
armed skiffs” is a common phrase heard in the Battle
Watch, out here in Bahrain. As the Battle Watch Assistant,
working with the Battle Watch Officer, we are responsible for
maintaining a continuous watch of maritime activities in and
around the Gulf of Aden, Horn of Africa (Somalia) and the Indian
Ocean. We achieve this situational awareness by monitoring the
communication systems and the common operating picture.
The NZ-led Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151) staff are located
at the US Naval Support Activity Base (Bahrain is home to the
US 5th Fleet). In a small air-conditioned office, our days consist
of 12-hour watches 8am to 8pm. This gives us some time off with
six of us keeping watch in teams of two. The accommodation is
really good; there are three of us, battle watch assistants, in an
apartment in Juffair, Manama City. CPOCSS(A) Duncan Anderson
was fortunate enough to get the en suite.
Our apartment is on the fifth floor overlooking the harbour.
The food available is diverse and the local shawarma alley is
a favourite, however incompatible with LCSS Matt Overall’s
extreme diet for gaining muscle mass.
Working as part of CTF 151 has been an excellent opportunity.
The highlight so far is performing the RNZN haka in front of an
international audience during the change of command ceremony
from the Republic of Korea Navy.
20
News
CTF 151 brings us into contact with a diverse range of naval
units presenting its own set of challenges, such as language and
procedural differences. But it is the skill at arms, and esprit de
corps, that we all share that enables us to carry out our roles and
contribute to the safety of our seas to deter and counter piracy.
Our task force currently consists of a Turkish frigate, a Japanese
destroyer and a South Korean destroyer. All are highly capable
units and seem to be kept very busy in a very active part of the
world. Also within our huge area of operations, we coordinate
with NATO, EU and independent deployers from a wide variety
of nations which encourages interoperability and enhanced
international cooperation.
We are now a month into our deployment, everyone has come
together well as a team and it is now time to grind out another
three months of watches and to deter piracy within our AO during
our tenure as CTF 151. I thoroughly recommend to everyone to
grasp the opportunity to come out to Bahrain and explore what is
a truly unique culture and a worthwhile deployment.
Hard work and fun
during WAKEFIELD zoo day
By MID Adin Martinus, RNZN
M
embers of HMNZS WAKEFIELD mess in Wellington had
the pleasure of participating in the Wellington Zoo’s
corporate volunteer programme recently. There are
around 500 animals from more than 100 species at the zoo which
made for an exciting day for all. With a change being as good as a
rest, a classic team-building activity of physical labour was embraced
by the members of the mess who were keen to keep their fitness up.
We split up into two groups to maximise the amount of work we
could get done around the Zoo. The first group got to work putting
up fine mesh around an enclosure for the red-tailed black cockatoos.
Previously, that mesh was not fine enough to stop sparrows from
getting in. The sparrows would eat the food, spread disease and
generally provide a nuisance to both the birds in the enclosure and
the zoo staff.
The second group got their hands dirty in the serval and caracal
enclosure. This was a new enclosure being built for these medium
sized wild cats that can jump three metres vertically in the air. There
was a lot of digging and shifting of large rocks to landscape the
enclosure. The new rock features and planted trees are credit to
the hard work. The lunch break gave us the time to do some proper
exploring of the zoo and get a few photos with some of the animals.
After lunch the first group carried on setting up fine mesh and the
second group did various jobs around the zoo. The zoo staff had
us sorting through building materials, transporting tree branches
and moving equipment. Once all the jobs were completed we were
treated to a special giraffe feeding and some of the officers even
had the giraffes eating off branches held by their teeth. This made
for some pretty interesting photos as the giraffes like to strip leaves
right from the base of the branch when they eat and with 45 cm
tongues they can get nervously close.
About 40 volunteer groups help Wellington Zoo every year. The
programme proves to be very beneficial to the running of the zoo
as jobs that can usually take weeks for the regular staff to complete
can be done in a few hours thanks to the number of personnel that
groups like ours provide. I really enjoyed the chance to get out of the
office and spend time with my fellow mess members in what was an
enjoyable day for everyone.
Opposite page (from top to bottom): From left Mr Jackson, CDRE McDougall
and CDR Walker, with ENDEAVOUR the background; From left CPOCWS
Anthony Nickel, LCSS Matt Overall, POCSS Jonathan Brooke and CPOSCSS
Duncan Anderson.
Above: CDR Phil McBride feeds a giraffe.
Navy band marking WWI
By AMUS Megan McFarlane
August saw the beginning of ceremonies remembering the
outbreak of hostilities in Europe 100 years ago. The Royal
NZ Navy Band performed at some of these events and
also undertook a tour through Northland in August which
included a tribute to those who served for their country
then, and now.
The aim of the tour was not only to bring the Navy and
NZDF to smaller communities, but also to bring music and
the spectacle of the band to children and adults alike who
perhaps would have seen nothing like it. The band packed
in eight concerts in five days, performing for thousands
of people in Kaitaia, Dargaville, Kaikohe, Kerikeri and
Whangarei. “Blown away” was what one Kaikohe school
teacher said, especially impressed when 700 school children
lifted the roof with the strains of Let it Go from Frozen!
WWI was remembered in each concert with a very moving
segment performed which included the Last Post, a poem
Dulce et Decorum Est by Wilfred Owen, and the song from
Band of Brothers Requiem for a Solider.
On 11 November the RNZN Band will remember Armistice
Day with a special concert at the Holy Trinity Cathedral
in Auckland, as well as our normal activities that day.
The school shows, rock and jazz band concerts and other
occasions the band performs are important events and a lot
of fun. However, it is the commemorative ceremonies and
the way the band can pay tribute to those who served for our
nation that makes me and all band members feel privileged
and proud.
News
21
Two Navy personnel talk
frankly about depression
Mental Health Awareness week was held between 6 and 10 October. The aim of the annual event is to highlight
mental health issues such as depression, stress and anxiety and to encourage people to recognise its symptoms
and seek help.
On this page we publish the first-person stories of two Navy personnel talking about how they overcame depression.
By LSA David Sanderson, who spoke at CN’s Whakaaro
in August
I was diagnosed with depression soon after I returned from
Operation TIKI VI this year. I didn’t really know anything about it
or how it affected people.
During the early stages of the deployment I began to feel
different mentally, I would feel as though I was not a part of the
team and no one cared about me in any way, shape or form. As
the trip went on these thoughts got worse to the extent were I
began to plan on hurting myself.
At this stage I did not see anything wrong with it as these feelings
had been happening for such a long time it was normal for me to
feel this way.
After the trip I returned home and I was on leave for two weeks,
these feelings I had were at their worst. I would be sitting in the
lounge at home by myself with my thoughts which was the worst
place to be. This is where I really had time to plan.
It was at its worst when I was in the kitchen with a knife, a piece
of paper and a pen thinking of what to write to my family and
friends. It’s a strange feeling now I think about it, not wanting to
carry on living any more. Wishing that you would not wake up in
the morning, or that something would happen to you when you’re
driving down the road that would end it all for you.
By An Officer
Fellow sailors, I suffer from depression.
Some of you know me; some of you don’t. It doesn’t matter who
I am though, because depression doesn’t discriminate between
age, race, rank or gender.
I developed depression after a traumatic incident. I figured that
“I’m a strong person, I just need to harden up.” I didn’t talk to
anyone about it how I felt because I knew that talking about it
couldn’t change what had happened. What I didn’t realise is that
although talking about it couldn’t change the past, it could’ve
changed the future.
If I had talked about it, some advice from the social workers at
Naval Community Organisation or a visit to the doc might’ve been
enough to help me. Unfortunately things got worse because I
simply wasn’t able to harden up. Depression doesn’t work like that.
It took someone else to reach out to me before I got the help I
needed. It turned out that others knew something was wrong, but
they didn’t say anything. Depression is like drowning. The victim
can be trying so hard to stay afloat that they just can’t raise their
hand in distress—they need someone to pull them out of the
water (or drag them kicking and screaming!).
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Mental health week
I am so lucky that my father and mother started to see I wasn’t
right and pushed me towards a psychiatrist who actually
diagnosed me. From there I was determined not to let this
beat me and I would do anything in my power to make sure
that happened.
At the start of my treatment I saw it as a weakness and did not
tell many people because I was worried I would be laughed at
or people would not want anything to do with me or wouldn’t
understand and not listen.
A few months down the track I have seen a lot of great people
who have helped me get through the thick of it. I had no idea how
many people this affects and how many people are out there who
care and I am living life and loving every minute of it.
Now I am standing up in front of crowds telling my story hoping
that others will follow and get treatment.
In the military when you put on the uniform people expect you
to be strong physically and mentally. There is a stigma around
mental illness; that it should not be talked about because it
makes people uncomfortable and it’s a weakness. This has to end.
Too many people are harming themselves because of this illness
and they need our help. No one deserves to feel terrible day in,
day out. Life is too short.
Did my diagnosis have an effect on my career? Yes. I was posted,
and there have been other consequences, but maybe if I’d
spoken up before I was drowning, I wouldn’t have needed this
intervention. Even now though, these effects will be temporary.
I had to be posted to enable me to get the help I needed and
thanks to that unwanted action, I will soon be able to manage my
depression and be fully fit for sea again.
The support I have received from the Navy has been amazing. The
Navy has gone to lengths I never expected to ensure I received
help. I have been given time off to get medical help and to talk to
a professional, and from this I will soon have the resources to get
back to being the me I know I can be.
So, the key things I have learned are:
•
If you think you may be suffering from depression, reach out
for help early.
•
If you think someone you know may be suffering from
depression, reach out to them.
Look after yourselves, and look after each other,
He heramana ahau. I am a sailor.
Recommended reading: ‘All Blacks Don’t Cry’ by John Kirwan
fleet progress
HMNZS WELLINGTON
enjoys a busy month
By ENS Nick Braun RNZN
H
MNZS WELLINGTON has had an extremely busy period
after coming out of dry dock in June. The boot went
straight onto the gas pedal as WELLINGTON proceeded to
sea to conduct some engineering trials. These included going from
full power ahead to full power astern to stop the ship in the water
as quickly as possible. It was like pulling the handbrake in a fast
moving car—it is safe to say that WELLINGTON really can almost
stop on a dime.
Next was an event everyone had been looking forward to. The new
25mm Typhoon weapon was installed and it was time to fire it for
the first time. ACSS Daly Tuilaepa and ACSS Thomas Gregg (who
had completed the training with the new system) kicked off the
trial with the help of a towed target. Great success was achieved
with rounds hitting the target most of the time and the new system
working without a hitch.
To finish off an exciting and busy period out at sea WELLINGTON
sailed for some in-company time with the Japanese Maritime Self
Defence Force’s Training Fleet. JS KASHIMA, JS SETOYUKO and JS
ASAGIRI joined WELLINGTON in the Hauraki Gulf where members
of KASHIMA and WELLINGTON cross-decked with each other to
experience the different navies. It was a great day and a magnificent
sight to see four warships conducting close manoeuvring.
WELLINGTON is now busy preparing for her ice trip at the end of
this year.
Above: Stirling Falls seen from the bow of the ship with the crew enjoying a
refreshing (and cold!) shower.
Below: Maritime Component Commander CDRE John Campbell (left) presents
WGN’s Executive Officer LT Grant Bicknell with an MCC’s Commendation for
his work and dedication going above and beyond the requirements of his role.
LT Bicknell has now posted ashore; Yogi aboard one of WELLINGTON’s RHIBs.
In late August WELLINGTON embarked a furry friend called Yogi—a
Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) special dog. Yogi got to go for
multiple rides in one of the Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats and had
no issues getting winched in and out using his custom built harness
which included a lifejacket.
At the same time Yogi’s handler and many other MPI personnel
learnt the art of getting in and out of a moving RHIB and onto a
ship. The crew enjoyed having a dog onboard and all look forward
to working with MPI dogs in the future.
We then headed to the West Coast of the South Island with
Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) officers embarked to conduct
compliance checks on the fishing vessels during the hoki season.
The operation was a huge success with two vessels being sent back
to port after MNZ found issues with their pollution prevention.
In total WELLINGTON’s boarding team and the two MNZ officers
boarded some 15 vessels totalling 24 hours of boarding time in the
five-day operation.
Once the operation was complete WELLINGTON headed into
Milford Sound to dip the bow of the ship under the Stirling Falls
which gave some excellent photos for Ship’s Company.
Fleet progress
23
fleet progress
HMNZS
te
kaha
conducting post-upgrade sea trials
By ENS Stephen Knowles RNZN
A
ugust and September were extremely busy months for
HMNZS TE KAHA. Onboard, it has been full of activity
to get the ship ready for sea. The engineers have been
industrious in their drive to get the new Integrated Platform
Management System (IPMS) up and running, frequently putting in
long hours to get the job done. The contractors have finished their
work on the bridge and the entire Ship’s Company diligently got
stuck into cleaning stations to get the ship up to standard to pass
its Safety and Readiness Check (SARC) in September.
August began with TE KAHA entering dry dock for an unplanned
docking to rectify some hull defects caused by corrosion. This was
also an ideal opportunity to conduct maintenance and cleaning of
the hull, shaft lines and props. Despite being in dock with no water,
toilets or air conditioning, morale remained high among Ship’s
Company as the finish line for the PSU2 upgrade loomed in the near
future. A highlight of this period was the Ships participation in the
Red Nose Day activities prior to undocking, which was thoroughly
enjoyed by all (see photo in Navy Today 182).
Once the ship exited dry dock it was all hands back to cleaning
stations to get the ship back up to the high standard we had
achieved prior to docking. This called for extra cleaning stations and
often long hours by Duty Watch to achieve the standard demanded
by the SARC. Throughout this entire time the engineers continued
24
fleet progress
fleet progress
to work hard, always gaining ground and pushing forward with the
new IPMS. Given the mammoth effort put in by Ship’s Company, it
was looking like TEK would indeed make it to sea to test her new
systems and once again be at the forefront of the RNZN’s warfighting capability.
All too quickly it was September and the SARC was upon us. Ship’s
Company had worked hard throughout the previous weeks getting
the ship up to a high standard across all branches. The week
consisted of departmental checks, engineering trials, the bridge
and engineering teams conducting a forenoon in the simulators
at the MWTC and a whole ship fast cruise to tie it all together. The
enthusiasm and drive were evident throughout the week, and the
Commanding Officer, CDR Dave McEwan took great delight in
informing Ship’s Company on Friday morning that we had received
a “Safe” and would continue with our programme of sailing on the
coming Monday for contractor sea trials.
The week of September 15 to 19 was busy with HMNZS TE KAHA
conducting Contractor Sea Acceptance Trials (CSATs) in the Hauraki
Gulf. Another big milestone was the Gun Function test conducted
on Thursday afternoon. The ship fired 10 rounds from the 5-inch gun,
which hadn’t been fired for over two years. The test was conducted
successfully, much to the delight of Ship’s Company, and allows TEK
to continue regenerating after its long period of upgrading.
To cap off a busy week, two members of Ship’s Company were
promoted and two others received Good Conduct Badges (GCBs).
LEWS Tiana Tuuta was promoted to Acting Petty Officer Electronic
Warfare Specialist and OET Rebecca Dore was promoted to Able
Electronic Technician. Both these promotions were thoroughly
deserved with POEWS Tuuta holding a key role onboard within the
EWS Division and AET Dore working extremely hard to complete
her training making her eligible for promotion.
The GCBs were awarded to POCSS Kyle Lomas and LCWS Anthony
Rea. POCSS Lomas was awarded his third GCB totalling 12 years of
unbroken good service to the RNZN and LCWS Rea was awarded
his second GCB for eight years unbroken good service which has
taken into account his time in the Royal Navy.
Opposite (from top to bottom): TE KAHA’s bridge team as the ship leaves
Devonport Naval Base for sea trials; TE KAHA departing with an escort tug.
This page (clockwise from top left): TE KAHA’s 5-inch gun firing for the first
time since 2012; OET Rebecca Dore being promoted to AET; AHSO Jenna
Seaver on lookout as the ship leaves Auckland, with the CO CDR Dave McEwan
watching on. Check out the new bridge equipment!; CO TEK CDR Dave
McEwan talking to POEWS Tiana Tuuta about the responsibilities of being
promoted to Petty Officer; TE KAHA exiting Auckland.
fleet progress
25
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ROTOITI
HMNZS Rotoiti
on patrol
By SLT Hannah Clark RNZN
H
MNZS ROTOITI left the wharf in July for the first time in 18
months, conducting reactivation and engineering trials. We
then deployed around New Zealand to undertake public
relations activities, raising awareness of the RNZN and conducting
routine patrols of the Exclusive Economic Zone between ports.
During this time the ship visited New Plymouth, Picton, Nelson,
Dunedin and Wellington.
Members of Ship’s Company who had family in the ports we visited
were given the opportunity to embark family members for a “shop
window” and the entry into harbour to go alongside. Families help
us do what we do and we couldn’t do it without them. To be able
to show them what we do day to day is a lot easier than trying to
explain it to them!
One family member and four media personnel were embarked prior
to going alongside in New Plymouth. Ship’s Company showed the
guests how we recover a man overboard and fight a fire. The Officer
of the Watch displayed the ship’s speed and manoeuvrability during
a ship handling demonstration. Due a storm surge warning that was
issued, we cut our stay short and sailed from New Plymouth early
to Picton.
ROTOITI sailed from Picton late after an engineering fault
was rectified. She then conducted pilotage training for junior
watchkeepers through the stunning Pelorus Sound. We embarked
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fleet progress
one family member, one radio broadcaster and 10 members of
the local Sea Cadet unit, TS TALISMAN, for a display of ROTOITI’s
capabilities prior to berthing in Nelson.
While alongside in Nelson, three members of Ship’s Company
visited the local intermediate school and shared their experiences.
ROTOITI was also open to visitors in Nelson. The regional recruiter
was onboard to provide more information about the recruiting
process. The open day was a success with a lot of keen and
enthusiastic future sailors coming onboard. We sailed from Nelson
on Monday 11 August and sailed down the east coast of the South
Island to Dunedin.
During the passage to Dunedin trainees conducted multiple sets
of engineering breakdowns to gain qualifications. Four family
members, four media and four potential recruits were embarked for
the long passage into Dunedin. As in Nelson, ROTOITI was open to
the public. Whilst alongside the ship provided a shop window for
potential recruits, cadets and reservists. This included launching
RHIBs, ship tours and briefs from members of various trades.
We sailed from Dunedin with 10 potential recruits, one cadet and
one family member. After the guests were disembarked via RHIB,
we transited north, continuing internal training with damage
control exercises and engineering breakdowns.
fleet progress
ROTOITI berthed in Wellington on Thursday 21 August 2014 with six
family members embarked. We sailed on Sunday morning with 10
reservists and eight family members embarked to conduct training.
Over the course of the month the ship embarked, either at sea
or alongside, 26 family members of Ship’s Company, 10 media
representatives, 16 reservists, 24 Fire Service members, 32 cadets,
28 sea scouts, 22 potential recruits, 80 school children from
different areas and 1149 members of the public.
After this successful PR trip, ROTOITI sailed from Wellington
to Picton to uplift two Ministry of Primary Industries Officers.
We sailed down the east coast overnight to be off Kaikoura next
morning. The MPI Officers, along with members of the ship’s
boarding party, conducted multiple boardings of fishing vessels.
ROTOITI’s focus then turned to the fishing fleet in Cook Strait. We
berthed in Picton to refuel prior to the final leg of the trip back to
Devonport. The members of the Seaman Combat Specialist branch
onboard conducted a .50 cal trial, comparing the current Browning
machine gun with the new M3M FN Herstal machine gun.
We berthed at DNB after a five week trip around NZ and conducted
maintenance before sailing again on 13 September.
Opposite: ROTOITI in Pelorus Sound.
Above (clockwise from top): ASCS Leevi Eaton fires the current .50 cal
machine gun; LMT(P) Adam Hall discusses ROTOITI’s Damage Control
equipment with visitors during the Nelson open day; The new .50 machine
gun being trialled.
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27
fleet progress
HMNZS OTAGO
in the South Pacific
By ENS Gideon van Zyl RNZN
H
MNZS OTAGO is in the tropical waters of the South
Pacific, having sailed to Samoa, Tokelau and then the
Cook islands as part of Operation CALYPSO 1/14.
The primary reason for OTAGO’s visit to Samoa was to support
the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) symposium, which took
place from 1-4 September. SIDS is a United Nations-led symposium
that was attended by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki
Moon and Helen Clark, Administrator of development programme.
OTAGO’s main role was to provide maritime security.
In addition to security duties in support of SIDS, OTAGO was
able to host a number of visitors and dignitaries and to attend
WW1 Centenary commemorations in the area. August 29 marked
100 years since New Zealand forces landed unopposed to seize
German Samoa. A service was conducted by OTAGO Ship’s
Company at the local war memorial and cemetery. The ceremony
saw the laying of wreaths by dignitaries and heads of state
including our own dignitary, Ambassador to the South Pacific,
Shane Jones.
As SIDS progressed, those not involved in security tasks took the
opportunity to assist Samoan aid agencies, which included the
Samoan Red Cross. Whilst at the Red Cross a number of technical
and manual labour jobs were conducted. The ship’s Weapons
Engineering Department was able to repair a radio repeater station
that had been defective for some time.
On completion of SIDS, OTAGO made passage to Tokelau to
conduct a fisheries EEZ patrol of their waters. With Tokelau
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Fleet Progress
representatives embarked, OTAGO located and boarded foreignflagged fishing vessels within the area, concluding the patrol off
Fakaofo Island.
Since departing Samoan waters OTAGO has conducted further
fisheries patrols in the EEZ of the Cook Islands, and supported a
Maritime Survey Team task on Penrhyn Island.
During the period, warm sunny weather has been a welcome
change to what we were experiencing back home in Auckland, and
many of the Ship’s Company have been able to enjoy the many
beaches and reefs available in the South Pacific.
Top: OTAGO boarding team inspecting a fishing vessel in the Cook Islands EEZ.
Above: OTAGO shore working party repairing Red Cross communications
antenna, Samoa.
fleet progress
TS LEANDER
cadets pay respect to Navy hero
By LT CDR Richard Gilvray RNZN
E
very August, at 8am on the Sunday closest to the 14th, the
TS LEANDER Sea Cadets assemble at the corner of Sanders
Avenue and Lake Road, Takapuna to pay their respect to
LT CDR William Sanders, VC, DSO who was killed in action on 14
August 1917.
Sunday 14 August 2014 marked exactly 97 years since William
Sanders died. He was the only New Zealander to be awarded the
Victoria Cross whilst serving in the Royal Navy.
SLT Leo Miller, Executive Officer, TS LEANDER, assembled 14 of his
cadets for a commemoration service given by TS LEANDER Padre,
A Kiwi Naval Reservist
in Canada
By LT CDR Peet Hoeksma RNZNVR, HMNZS OLPHERT
A
t the end of July this year I had the opportunity to travel
from Wellington to Toronto, Ontario in the north-east of
Canada to complete the first phase of the Joint Command
and Staff Programme run by the Canadian Forces College. Each
year two to three New Zealand Reservists are selected to attend
the programme as part of the Distance Learning programme.
For the 2013-14 Academic year, MAJ Grant Arrowsmith (Auckland)
and I were the New Zealand candidates. There were six other
“Internationals” on the course, two from Australia, one from
Germany and three from the USA. For the Distance Learning
portion of the course we were required to complete set readings,
write discussion posts and submit a number of essays on topics
including Leadership, Command, Component Capabilities, and
Domestic Operations.
Much of the course work was based on the Canadian way of doing
things. However, my course mates commented on how great it was
to have a different “down under” perspective on things.
During the contact phase (14 days at the college), we attended
lectures and engaged in a tutorial designed to introduce us to the
Canadian Forces Operational Planning Process, which we know as
the Joint Military Appreciation Process.
Mr Bruce Thomson. Also in attendance was the great-nephew of
William Sanders, plus representatives from the RNZN and RNZNVR,
LT CDR Richard Gilvray, RNZN and SLT John Hilario, RNZNVR.
LT CDR Sanders received his VC for gallantry after his ship HMS
PRIZE was attacked by a U-boat south of Ireland on 30 April 1917
during WWI. He and the rest of his crew died in another U-boat
attack on PRIZE on 14 August 1917.
Above: ACDT Trish Gilvray (left) recites the ode in Maori and English
during the commemoration service.
Below: LT CDR Peet Hoeksma with fellow Kiwi Staff Course member Army
Reserve MAJ Grant Arrowsmith, at the clock tower, Canadian Forces
College, Toronto.
The opportunity to meet my fellow course mates and work with
them face to face was excellent, and a great deal of valuable
networking took place with members of the Canadian military
(Navy, Army, Air Force and Special Forces) and Australian and US
Military personnel at the LT CDR/CDR level.
During the course we had a
battlefield tour of the 1812-15
Anglo-American War, visiting
battlefields such as Lundy’s Lane
and Chippawa, Fort Erie and
the Niagara Falls. At Fort Erie,
the international students had
the opportunity to demonstrate
the firing of a musket, to the
slight embarrassment of the
US students whose muskets
promptly misfired several times!
The whole experience was busy
and thoroughly enjoyable
and worthwhile.
Now back at our home units, we
have started Distance Learning 2.
I am again busy juggling family,
civilian work, Naval Reserve
duties at HMNZS OLPHERT and
study in order to gain a Staff
Qualification.
Fleet progress
29
Sharing parental leave
becoming popular
Sharing parental leave is gaining popularity as an increasing number of parents want
to have a greater role in their children’s upbringing. Here two pairs of Navy parents
tell how their families have benefitted from the experience of sharing parental leave.
L
T Tarindu Weeramuni and Ronalda Chitty are the proud
parents of two beautiful sons, Jaegan and Marlowe.
Tarindu took two weeks’ leave when Jaegan was born but
opted to share Ronalda’s leave when Marlowe arrived so he could
spend two months as primary carer for his older son, leaving
Ronalda time to be with the new baby.
Tarindu weighed up how important sharing the childcare load was
to his new family and found two months’ leave did not negatively
impact on his career. The time he spent bonding with his family reenergised him for his return to work. The family also appreciated
Tarindu’s receiving a parental returning incentive payment, paid
out approximately 26 weeks after he returned to work.
From their experience, Tarindu and Ronalda recommend new
parents plan and communicate their leave intentions well in
advance, submit a leave request well in advance and clear all your
work before you start leave.
“Check your return date,” says Tarindu. “Confirm it with your
manager or arrange to have your manager contact you in advance
of your return to ensure you get it right. Consider your own
financial situation before making a decision. The majority of time
will be unpaid but there are cost savings around reduced travel
and minimal day care fees, home cooked meals and so on.”
Sharing parental leave enabled WOMED Teresa Ikenasio and
CPOCWS Rodney (Ike) Ikenasio to bond with their girls while also
taking a break from work.
Teresa and Ike have both taken time out from their busy careers
to care for their two young daughters. Teresa had the first seven
months of parental leave with their first daughter Mikayla and Ike
took five months. When second daughter Kaitlyn-Marie turned
one, Teresa returned to work from 12 months parental leave and
Ike took a further 12 month’s leave without pay to mind the girls.
30
Parental leave
Ike and Teresa agree that bonding with their children and
learning how to be parents were the most beneficial lessons
they gained from sharing parental leave. Having both been in
the Navy for some time before having children, they appreciated
being able to “de-militarise” for a period and concentrate solely
in their home life and establish a support network among other
civilian parents they met.
Both Teresa and Ike returned to fulltime roles when their parental
leave finished. Teresa says it did take six months for her to adjust
to her new role and feel comfortable in managing the demands of
a busy job and parenthood.
“I have no regrets of being a stay at home dad,” says Ike. “Taking
parental leave provided an opportunity to recharge from the
Navy and for the girls and me to connect.”
They credit the availability of fulltime childcare at the Navy
Childcare Centre with enabling them to remain with the Navy.
Had that not been available they may have considered options
including Ike leaving to be prime caregiver in the girls’ pre-school
days while Teresa, in a more senior ranked role, remained with
the Navy.
They recommend not forgetting your career development and
reporting stages so as not being disadvantaged on the promotion
roster when returning.
“Our divisional officers, heads of department and career
managers were very supportive of our intentions and the lead
time given. This provided ample time for them to look for
alternative working arrangements and replacements so that the
Navy didn’t lose either of us completely and our trades were able
to work around our absences.”
Above (left to right): AWOMED Teresa Ikenasio and CPOCWS Ike Ikenasio
and daughters; Ronalda Chitty and LT Tarindu Weeramuni and sons.
POSCS Tana Pungatara (centre) at the
Invictus Games opening ceremony
Small but determined
NZDF team win six medals at inaugural Invictus Games
By Matt Boulton, Defence Communications Group, who attended the games with our 12 athletes
A
little over three months ago, the Invictus Games
meant little to the New Zealand Defence Force. After
an incredibly short training period, a long flight and
four days of intensive competition, it now means much more
to the twelve soldiers, sailors, and airmen, currently serving
and retired, who took part in nine sporting events in London’s
Olympic venues.
The Invictus Games—brainchild of HRH Prince Harry
following a visit to the USA’s Warrior Games—saw over 400
competitors from 13 countries battle team and individual
sporting events. From the hard-hitting team sport of
Wheelchair Rugby—or “murderball” as it is sometimes known
due to its intense physicality—to the demands of track and
field events, the NZ Defence Force team pitched themselves
against some stiff competition, and came up trumps.
The games took place in London from 10 to 14 September,
bringing together injured, wounded and ill service men
and women from countries that had served alongside each
other. Its aim was to spotlight the sacrifices participants
made while serving their countries, and highlight their
determination to overcome personal restrictions to continue
to lead lives of excellence.
Six medal wins for the Kiwi team were a massive highlight, but
the experience itself offered much more to those involved.
“I am proud of my achievements,” said double medal winner
CPL Kelly Whittle, who took silver in the Women’s Open
Class discus and shot-put. “I am as proud of just competing.
I watched teams who didn’t place give it a try. It’s not just
about winning. Taking part is massive.”
POSCS Tana (Johnny) Pungatara agrees: “The Invictus Games
is about being part of a team, and giving it a go,” he said.
“Challenge yourself; conquer your fears.”
The challenges were many. For most of the team, the
sports they competed in were nothing they had ever tried
before. Add to the mix the technicalities of competing in a
wheelchair for basketball and rugby, of having to sit while
playing volleyball; of minimal team-training time (just one
week learning the basics in July together); and the fact that
these sports were secondary to the everyday roles of each of
the competitors, the challenge became immense. But, in true
Kiwi style, each rose above the odds to reach high, play hard,
and beat personal bests.
“When I won bronze in the Women’s 1600m road cycling, I
couldn’t believe I had placed,” said CPOMED Amy Baynes.
“I looked at the competition and thought ‘Paralympians? I
don’t stand a chance’.” LCPL Connor McLellan shared her
sentiments: “I made it to the Men’s 1500m run and kept
thinking about how quick those Americans were.” He went
on to place fifth in the finals, beating the US entrants to the
finish line. “But those Brits,” he laughed, “They’re fast!”
New Zealand’s sixth and final medal was the bronze in
women’s power-lifting, also won by CPOMED Amy Baynes.
Due to a very limited training schedule, the Kiwi team were
understandably nervous of taking on the wheelchair sports.
“The team had about three hours’ total training time together
before they played their first match against the USA,” said
team coach, SSGT Phil Stanbridge. After battling hard but
losing to the US and then the Brits, the Kiwis did not give up.
They went in and played a great game against Australia that,
at 25 seconds left to play, saw the Kiwi team down eight points
to nine. A foul from the Aussies gave NZ team captain Dave
Sherriff the opportunity he had been waiting for. “I had a feel
for the ball,” he said, “so I controlled myself; I took my time.”
He had two free shots, and sunk them both—winning the
game for the Kiwi team, and raising the roof of the stadium.
When asked what his highlight was, however, the double
medal winner (silver for sitting discus, bronze for sitting shotput) Dave, a paraplegic, gave an unexpected answer: “When
Invictus games
31
Invictus Games participation
life-changing for Navy medic
By AMED Amy Baines, double-medal winner in the games
M
y journey to my recent success began a little over three
months ago when Army CAPT Rebecca Maddaford
called to ask if I would like to try out for the upcoming
inaugural Invictus games. At this time I had no idea what this event
was about, but was told it was a para-Olympic type competition
for wounded, ill or injured service personnel.
Once I read a little about it, of course I jumped at the chance
to again challenge myself and do something to represent
New Zealand. My journey for this came about from an injury
I was competing in discus, there was a British guy who
had been bumped up a class. There was no way he was as
physically able as the other competitors. He was strapped
in to the seat, and he took his throws. He threw with all
his might and beat out men far more physically able than
him. When he took that podium and was presented the
bronze, I was in awe of him. He’d got up there, done his
best, and it paid off. I was delighted and proud for him.”
The spirit of comradeship ran deep throughout the lead-up
to, and during the games. Overseas competitors joined our
team’s Facebook page and offered their encouragement—
and a fair amount of banter. On the ground, shared
experiences brought people together, and with it the
realisation that, despite their various levels of physical
or emotional wellbeing, this group of athletes were there
to prove that they were capable of more than even they
might have imagined.
“When I was first chosen for the NZ team, I didn’t think
I was worthy,” said APOEWS Karl Shearsby. “When I got
here, everyone made me think that I am. I don’t have
a wound. I don’t have an injury, but not every physical
disability can be seen. Everyone there should be as proud
as I was to be given the opportunity to take part.”
Our team would like to thank the following for their
sponsorships, contributions and other support:
the RSA, New Balance, Jaguar Land Rover NZ, Canterbury
Clothing, Singapore Airlines, APX, Ultimo Clothing, the
Fallen Heroes Trust, Flaunt, and those organisations which
generously sponsored individuals. From within the Defence
Force, we would like to acknowledge the Singapore Fund
and NZDF Leadership for allowing us the opportunity to
participate in the games. Particular thanks go to everyone
who gave up their time and expertise to coach the team,
those who provided equipment and training venues, and all
who offered encouragement and showed they were behind
the Kiwi team.
32
Invictus Games
I sustained in Afghanistan in 2004. Over the following years and
unsuccessful surgeries, I ended up having to have a total hip
replacement in September last year at age 34.
With the long recovery almost over I jumped at the chance to
compete with other service personnel from 14 other countries who
had also been wounded or injured in service.
This game’s ethos was recovery through sport and that was the
drive I used over the next three months to get me to the games.
Our team of 12 arrived in London on 7 September and spent a
couple of days acclimatising. One special memory from my first
few days in London was a very rare private tour through the House
of Lords by conducted by Lord McNally. We were very privileged
to then be served tea on the balcony of the House of Lords, which
many people want to do but never get to!
That amazing day was topped of by a wonderful evening at the New
Zealand High Commission, with a very special VIP arriving to have
an informal meet and greet. This person was Prince Harry himself!
What a special moment as he spent a lot of time with us all.
The games themselves—which HRH Prince Harry opened on 10
September—started with a truly inspiring day of athletics where
two of our Kiwi contingent absolutely shone, winning three silver
and one bronze medal in shot-put and discus. All our athletes were
competing against para-Olympians at these games so competition
was fierce! CPL Kelly Whittle and David Sheriff (retired Air Force)
did an amazing job.
Day two saw me and four other New Zealand archers on the line
battling it out for personal bests in our first-ever competition. All of
us had not picked up a bow or arrow before being chosen so all of us
were in for an experience. With only three months personal training,
our top three Kiwi totals qualified us for the finals intake team event.
And it was awesome as the top three New Zealand archers were
all navy—me, APOEWS Karl Shearsby and POSCS Tana Pungatara.
We placed fifth equal out of 13 teams so happy with that. At the
same time our remaining Kiwis were fighting hard in the sitting
volleyball which was a courageous battle over several games.
The fourth day was my main event. With my hip replacement, my
impact sports activity is now severely reduced, so I took up cycling
as an alternative recreation activity. Again with minimal training
(mostly on a wind trainer in the lounge at night when the kids were
in bed), I took to the track against females from other countries
within my disability category. It was a great track but quite
technical and with a few inclines thrown in.
I competed in a 1600-metre sprint time trial and managed to
place third with two American Paraolympian cyclists placing first
and second. I was overcome with my bronze as it was not at all
expected. CPL Whittle also raced this event in a different category
and was just short of a bronze by a mere second.
A few minutes after the medal ceremony I rushed over to another
compound and competed in the one-minute rowing sprint race. I
came third in that also but unfortunately for that one there was no
third place medal.
The following and final day for my competition was power-lifting
and swimming. However a clash in times meant I missed the
swimming. Power-lifting was a challenge for me as I had little to
no training so on the day I just went with the flow. It was enough
though and a bronze came my way also.
In between all the individual events we also all competed in the
team wheelchair sports and did an amazing job with the three
sports of wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby and sitting
volleyball. For a small group of Kiwis who came together for a few
days to train months ago we worked so well on the day and raised
the roof in the copper box arena when we played the Aussies and
came from behind to take the win.
That game was amazing and the crowd was electric. No words
in this article will explain the feeling we all felt when we were all
competing. To watch a British soldier who had 85 percent burns
to his body with his fingers melted off competing in power-lifting
and lifting over 100kg with stumps as hands, and to watch men
and women with no limbs running on blades and swimming
competitively is nothing but awe inspiring. They were competing,
winning and smiling about it.
Each game played, each event completed, highlighted all the
athletes and countries in big lights and it was truly like we were
professional athletes. In between the sports we were pampered
like royalty with special events personally organised for the
Invictus competitors such as a private Foo Fighters concert on the
American ambassador’s lawn, private tours and, for me personally,
I got to drive on a race track a brand new F4 Jaguar and meet both
Prince William and Prince Harry.
But what topped it off for me was that we were allowed to take
our most prized possession, which was our loved ones who have
gone through our journey also. They have seen us down at our
lowest and then coming out the other side. That was what was
most special for me when I was standing on the podium. It made
all my hard work worth while to have my husband there to see me
achieve what I never thought I would have a chance to do.
Also this journey would not have been as successful without the
support of my unit in Burnham who supported my quest by giving me
the flexibility during work time to train if required. Thank you MAJ
Baker and WO Keno for that support, and also my individual trainers
who helped train me and give me advice all for the love of the sport.
Without these special people I would not have been successful.
And finally to a group of people I had never met until recently and
will now be lifelong friends with. I want to thank WO Clark (our
manager) who worked tirelessly to get us there to compete, SSGT
Phil Stanbridge (our coach at the games) and my New Zealand
Invictus team. To the team: you are all so amazing and inspiring,
each story is different yet we all were there for the same reason—
to push ourselves to be the best we can be with our ailments. I am
humbled by your strength, courage and comradeship.
I hope I am lucky enough to be picked for the next games and I
encourage any service person who has been injured, wounded or is
ill to aim to compete at these games. It will change your life!
Opposite: APOEWS Karl Shearsby plays sitting volleyball.
Above: CPOMED Amy Baines with her cycling bronze medal.
Invictus games
33
Navy wins
Four Nations Maritime Rugby Cup
T
he Royal New Zealand Navy won the first Four Nations
Maritime Rugby Cup with victories against teams from the
Royal Navy, Royal Australian Navy and the US Marine Corps.
The Navy clinched the series with a 26 to 5 win over the RAN on
30 September. This followed a nail-biting 33 to 28 win over the
RN on 26 September, the victory coming right at the end of the
match, and a 55 to 3 win over the USMC on 22 September.
The Four Nations Maritime Rugby Cup 2014 tournament was
hosted by the RNZN at the Devonport Naval Base from 18
September to 5 October 2014, with the matches held at the
Ngataringa Sports Complex.
Background: The RN invited the RNZN rugby team to tour the
United Kingdom as their guests in 1997. Coincidentally that year,
the RAN had also planned to conduct a rugby tour of the UK and
a decision was made to hold a Tri-Navies Rugby Tournament.
Following this inaugural tournament, it was agreed that a
tournament should be held every three years hosted in rotation.
It became known as the Commonwealth Navies Rugby Cup.
This was the first time the USMC participated and in recognition
of their attendance this year’s tournament was titled the Four
Nations Maritime Rugby Cup.
From top to bottom: RNZN v USMC. The Navy won 53–3.
RNZN v RN. The RNZN won 33–28.
More action from the RNZN v RN match.
34
Four nations rugby
1975 RNZN Intake Reunion
Saturday 17 January 2015, in Auckland, venue TBA
Calling all BCTs, Artificer Apprentices, WRNZNS and Officers, Instructors
and Divisional Officers who enlisted in or were involved with this 1975
group. Probable ship/Naval Base tour followed by dinner and city sights.
Register your interest either by FB 1975 RNZN Intake Reunion or email
either Glen at glen.stokes@nzdf.mil.nz or Terry at terry.whimp@gmail.com
and should there be sufficient interest, further detail will be promulgated.
New Zealand Defence Industry Association
(NZDIA) Forum 2014
Selected RNZN rank abbreviations
With the various Navy trades, the trade has the same title
across all relevant ranks, so, for example, a LSCS (Leading
Seaman Combat Specialist) is the same trade as a CPOSCS
(Chief Petty Officer Seaman Combat Specialist), and so on.
Men and women have the same rank titles—a Midshipman
or Leading Seaman Combat Specialist can be (and are) men
and women. Almost a quarter of Navy personnel now are
women, up to the rank of Captain.
Theme for 2014: Driving NZ Economic Growth – Defence and
industry’s role.
21 and 22 October 2014, Wellington, New Zealand
RADM: Rear Admiral
In association with New Zealand Government, local and international
industry members, Ministry of Defence and NZ Defence Force.
Now open for registrations at www.nzdia.co.nz
Email: contact@nzdia.co.nz Phone: +64 27 600 1229
CAPT: Captain
HMS ACHILLES—Battle of the River Plate
LT: Lieutenant
75th Memorial buffet luncheon, 13 December 2014
SLT: Sub Lieutenant
Commerce Club, Greenlane, Auckland. Limit 200 tickets, open to all.
$30.00 per head. Contact Gerry Wright at Gerrywright@xtra.co.nz or
Box 9352 Newmarket 1149
ENS: Ensign
RNZN Engine Room Branch Reunion
6–8 November 2015, Napier
This Reunion will be held in Napier on the weekend of 6–8 November 2015.
For details please contact:
Dennis Zachan, 12 Norrie Place, Tamatea, Napier
Ph Home: 06 8442201 Mob: 021 673 242Email: exstokers@gmail.com
Royal New Zealand Naval Women’s
Association Reunion
17–19 October 2014, James Cook Hotel, Wellington
Non-members are welcome; the only qualification is current or past service
in the RNZN or Commonwealth navies. Registration $35.00.
Contacts: Marie Reille marieandjeff@xtra.co.nz
Pauline Patterson paddypat@paradise.net.nz
Margaret Snow margarets@rsa.org.nz
CDRE: Commodore
CDR: Commander
LT CDR: Lieutenant Commander
MID: Midshipman
WOCH: Warrant Officer Chef
WOMED: Warrant Officer Medic
CPOWTR: Chief Petty Officer Writer
CPOEWS: Chief Petty Officer Electronic Warfare Specialist
POPTI: Petty Officer Physical Training Instructor
POCSS: Petty Officer Combat System Specialist
LSCS: Leading Seaman Combat Specialist
LSA: Leading Stores Accountant
LMT (P): Leading Marine Technician (Propulsion)
AMUS: Able Musician
ADR: Able Diver
AHCM: Able Helicopter Crewman
OSTD: Ordinary Steward
OMT (L): Ordinary Marine Technician (Electrical)
OCWS: Ordinary Communications Warfare Specialist
Jackspeak—Navy slang
BZ: The flag signal Bravo Zulu, meaning “well done”
Brow: Gangway between ship and wharf
Crossing the bar: To die
Dit: A Navy yarn
EMAs: Early Morning Activities—running, swimming etc for
new recruits
Gash: Rubbish
Goffas: Non-alcoholic drink
Heads: Toilets. In sail days they were under the figurehead.
MOET: Maritime Operational Evaluation Team
Oppos: Shipmates
Oscar: The flag signal for “man overboard.” The name of the manoverboard dummy used for drills.
RHIB: Rigid hull inflatable boat, jetboat carried on our ships
Rig: Uniform
Roughers: As it looks, rough seas
Scran: Food
Work-up: Intense exercises working a ship up to its full
operational capabilities, conducted by MOET.
NOTICES
35
JOIN A WORK PLACE
THAT'S REALLY
OPEN-PLAN.
36