A day to remember in the Torres Strait

29 April 2009

The HS WHITE Crew (LCDR Michael Gulyas), embarked HMAS Leeuwin, had a moving experience on ANZAC Day, remembering the fallen on Thursday Island in Far North Queensland.

Whilst conducting survey operations in the Adolphus Channel, the Resident Naval Officer Thursday Island (RONTI), LCDR Blake Forrester, requested support from Leeuwin to help commemorate ANZAC Day. The ship’s company were asked to join the many ex-service personnel that now call the island home and the team was more than happy to jump at the unique opportunity.

The ceremony’s location brought home the strategic significance of the Torres Strait region and provided an opportunity to reflect on the contribution that the Torres Strait Islanders made when called upon to support our country during times of conflict.

Under a clear, tropical sky, the Leeuwin Boatswains Mates, under the direction of POB Jason Low, provided a catafalque party for the dawn service at the Green Hill Fort, while the ship provided a backdrop against the rising sun.

Onboard, during the ships dawn service, the Commanding Officer, LCDR Michael Gulyas, reminded personnel during his address that “we are remembering those that have given the ultimate sacrifice and that we should be also be justifiably proud of our own service.”

Leeuwin provided the largest contingent for a well attended march through the main street of Thursday Island alongside with members of RNOTI Staff.

The embarked AS350B from 723 Squadron, piloted by LCDR Nick Hattersley, then provided a fly-past for the main parade before landing and being opened for inspection for an appreciative local crowd.

The opportunity was then taken to mix with the local population and swap tales of both past and present service with the comment being made that the tradition of service to your country is important, no matter what capacity you serve in.