Royal Australian Navy’s newest warship, HMAS Adelaide, took part in the Sydney Australia Day celebrations, hosting many of the Australian officials and prominent people.
The 27,500 tonne ship dwarfed other ships in harbour as she took prime position in Circular Quay for the midday ‘Salute to Australia’.
Commanding Officer HMAS Adelaide, Captain Paul Mandziy , commented: “We only commissioned at the end of 2015, so it was the first opportunity we, as a ship’s company, have had to present our ship to the people of Sydney and Australia. We are proud to participate and help celebrate our national day with the Australian community.”
With the Governor of New South Wales embarked in Adelaide, the amphibious ship was central to the ‘Salute to Australia’, with a 24-man guard from the ship’s company giving the Vice Regal salute.
The Governor also awarded Chief Petty Officer Marine Technician Damien Clayton an Australia Day Medallion. This is the second time Chief Petty Officer Clayton has received such an award.
A 21-gun salute from North Sydney and an flyover by Royal Australian Air Force ‘F18 Hornet’ fast jet signalled the conclusion of the salute.
HMAS Adelaide put on hold her training off the east cost of Australia to take part in the national celebrations. She will return to sea to continue with this training and commence her work-up cycle.
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