Arunta conquers by land and sea

16 September 2008

Eager for a great sea battle, nine officers and sailors from HMAS Arunta (CMDR Timothy Brown) recently marched inland to compete in the infamous Henley-on-Todd Dry River Bed Regatta, in Alice Springs. The members who participated returned home the victors after winning the prestigious Reg Smith Cup for the 'maxi-yacht' event.

Arunta's participation in the Henley-on-Todd was the culmination of a week-long visit to Alice Springs, the ship's adopted home port. The visit gave the group the opportunity to reinvigorate the close links between the ship and the Alice Springs community. As well as the chance to learn more about the traditions and culture of the Arrernte indigenous nation for whom the ship is named after.

Highlights of the visit included a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park, a guided tour of sacred sites around the town, as well as visits with the Clontarf Football Academy at the Centralian Senior High School and an address to the assembly at Anzac Hill High School.

"Given that Alice Springs is located right in the heart of Australia makes our relationship with Alice Springs unique within the Australian Fleet," said CMDR Brown.

"This visit has given us the opportunity to show the people of Central Australia that the Navy belongs just as much to them and plays an important part in securing the quality of life that we all enjoy. It is clear that they are as proud of their association with the Navy as we are."

Arunta's strong relationship with Alice Springs has continued to thrive since the ship was first granted the right of Freedom of Entry to the city after Commissioning in 1998.