Exercise DARDANELLES held at HMAS Creswell on 17 February, tested the teamwork skills of members of New Entry Officer Course (NEOC) 48 as their second week in the Navy came to a close.
Held just weeks after many had joined the RAN, the exercise was an introduction to the challenges of working with others in a mentally and physically fatiguing environment.
Facilitated by the Royal Australian Naval College staff and supported by members of Navy specifically chosen to assist during the officers’ initial training period (ITP), DARDANELLES provided a perfect opportunity to foster communication and coordination skills.
The format involved four demanding activities that required flexible decision-making as well as communication, teamwork and endurance.
Leading Seaman Chef Kurt Gallagher, Bass Divisional Staff for the duration of the four week ITP, explained the significance of the exercise, “This shows them how important teamwork is for life at sea.
“Our role as ITP staff here at Creswell is to prepare trainees for challenges that will face them later in their careers, it’s really rewarding.”
Sixteen permanent and reserve Navy personnel were selected as additional ITP staff for NEOC 48 from the rank of Able Seaman to Chief Petty Officer. Those selected provide mentoring guidance to develop the foundations for the transition into Naval life.
DARDANELLES is one of the many exercises conducted at Creswell that prepare the officers for specialised category training. It is part of the ongoing professional development provided by Creswell on behalf of Navy.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, February 25, 2013; Image: Australian Navy