COMFLOT visits Manoora
15 January 2008 By SBLT Kelli Lunt
Homecoming for Christmas was somewhat delayed for HMAS Manoora, when a stranded yacht "Mummbo" requested assistance on Monday, 17 December 2007. Hearing the calls for distress, Manoora provided assistance until they were relieved on scene by New South Wales Water Police.
Upon arrival at Fleet Base East later that day, the ship's company were addressed by Commodore Flotillas (COMFLOT), CDRE David Johnston, who praised the performance of the ship's company over the course of a busy year.
In the closing months of 2007, Manoora completed amphibious training with the Seventh Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR) in Exercise Sea Eagle held near the Cultana Range, South Australia. Manoora also supported the multi-national submarine rescue Exercise Pacific Reach held in the Western Australian Exercise Area (WAXA) and rounded out the activities by circumnavigating Australia to return two LCM8 Landing Craft to Townsville.
COMFLOT presented three awards to members of the ship's company. CPO Boatswain Tim Badger received a promotion to WO. CPO Tim Badger has spent the last two and a half years onboard Manoora and his next posting is as the Bosun Mate Category Sponsor in Canberra.
LCDR Roger Eaton, the Sea King Flight Commander, was recognised for the completion of 4,000 flying hours. LCDR Eaton completed 20 years in the Royal Navy (RN), before transferring to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in 1999.
Sergeant Peter Larner, a member of the Ship's Army Detachment, was awarded a Chief of Defence Force Commendation for his efforts during his posting to HQ1JMOVGRP.
Commanding Officer of Manoora, CMDR Paul Mandziy, echoed COMFLOT's observation by thanking the crew for their commitment and outstanding efforts over the year.
CMDR Mandziy also had the opportunity to recognise various crew members for achievements including a promotion for LS Marine Technician Paul Smith to PO; SBLT Michelle Sheekey, MIDN Brad Morgan, SBLT Stuart Goldfinch and LEUT Matthew Ayton received their Harbour Watchkeeping Certificate qualifications; First Clasp to the Defence Long Service Medal toLSBM Anthony Hawke and 'Shipmate of the Month' to PO Stores Naval Renai Irvine.
