Navy People: Navy ropes in a Resolute force

28 June 2011

Officer-in-Charge of Transit Security Element (TSE) 61, Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Jak Wilson presents Seaman Boatswains Mate (SMNBM) Kea Spafford with her TSE 61 cap and badge.

Eighteen-year-old SMNBM Kea Spaffordd is realising her dream of a career at sea as she deploys for three months on Operation Resolute as part of the first all-Navy Transit Security Element (TSE).

SMNBM Spafford is one of 43 sailors in Darwin who form the 61st rotation of the TSE, a small force of personnel who will provide support to boarding parties and crews on Navy ships and Customs vessels as they conduct border security operations in northern Australia. The team will also provide security on intercepted vessels after Boarding Parties have apprehended and secured them.

TSE 61 is unique as it represents the first time a team has been manned by Navy personnel, replacing previous rotations manned by Army and RAAF members.

The keen surfer from the west coast Tasmanian town of Marrawah said she volunteered for the chance to get involved in Operation RESOLUTE as it offered a great way to experience life in the Navy’s highest tempo operation.

“I am really looking forward to getting to sea and being involved with boarding parties, honing my seamanship skills and it’s also a great chance to complete my competency log,” SMNBM Spafford said.

“It’s a great way to see what life on patrol boats is like and it’ll help me make some decisions about where I want my career to go in the short term.

“If nothing else, this is what I joined for – getting to sea and doing a valuable job.”

TSE 61 Officer-in-Charge, LCDR Jak Wilson said the element’s role was vital in supporting the hard-working crews deployed on Operation RESOLUTE, as well as enhancing career opportunities for TSE members.

“This is the first TSE the Navy has undertaken for Operation RESOLUTE and is part of a two-year trial where we will continue to provide personnel to man the rotations,” LCDR Wilson said.

“We will provide TSE personnel for each patrol boat, other Navy assets and Customs Vessels that are assigned to Operation RESOLUTE.

“This element is made up with personnel from all Navy Categories - anyone can volunteer and we provide them with the necessary training to ensure they are prepared for the job ahead.”