HMAS Sydney was officially decommissioned at a ceremony at her homeport of Garden Island, Sydney, on Saturday, November 7.
The city of Sydney’s namesake ship was farewelled from the Royal Australian Navy by her Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander David Murphy, along with 130 crew members and nearly 800 guests, including the Governor‑General and Minister for Defence.
The Australian White Ensign was lowered from the ship for the last time, and handed to the Commanding Officer, as is the tradition for Navy during decommissioning ceremonies.
Lieutenant Commander David Murphy has commanded Sydney since March 2015, shortly after the ship sailed into Sydney Harbour for the final time on February 28.
During his speech Lieutenant Commander Murphy said:
In her time, Sydney has conducted maritime operations spanning the globe and steamed 959,627 nautical miles. She has been involved in operations in the Middle East, East Timor, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Sydney commenced Harbour Training Ship duties this year, in March 2015, and after a successful year will qualify 72 frigate-endorsed Marine Systems Technician’s (MST), eight Mk92 Fire Control System Electronic Technicians and support to numerous other Fleet and shore units, including synthetic exercises with the United States Navy 7th Fleet, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and diving support for Australian Clearance Diving Team 1, Damage Control Training for the Royal Australian Navy’s Combat Survivability School, and the Australian Army’s Tactical Assault Group – East during the visit by His Royal Highness Prince Harry.
Although decommissioned, Sydney will continue to serve as a Harbour Training Ship until December 11, 2015.