Publication:Newcastle News Issue 1 2009/Smart Training Pays Off

Having spent significant time in refit and Upgrade, HMAS Newcastle has managed to utilise the RELEGEN sponsored MST program and the FFG Propulsion Control System (FFGPCS) trainer at the Combat System Maintainer School in the successful training of six Marine System Technicians (MST), two Marine System Controllers (MSC) and two Electric Plant Console Operators (EPCCO). To add to this impressive achievement , an additional six members of the Marine Engineering Department also received their MST qualifications. This was achieved during a series of walk throughs and assessment onboard with WO Marine Technician Kevin Crandon and CPO Paul Baker.

back row:- LSMT David Haynes (MST), ABMT Alias Coady (EPPCO), ABMT Benn Bramich (AMOCS), LSMT Nathan Cook (MST), LSMT John Althofer (MST), ABMT Trevor Hoyle (MST), LEUT Dane Wilson (EPPCO) front row:- LSMT Brent Anschaw (MSC U/T), ABMT Nathan Fernandez (MST), LSMT Rohan Audehm (MSC), LSMT Daniel Scheffler (MSC).

Making the most of their hands-on learning opportunities.

On The Job Training

Training our crew is taken at every opportunity. Recently qualified was AB Patrick McCarron (bottom left) who worked with Thales personnel to achieve his valuable skill-set to support the ships defensive missile systems. Officers of the Watch are also offered continuous training to improve their skills to gain their qualifications. Seen here (top right) is the current incumbent of assistants that are making the most of their hands-on learning opportunities.

CMDR Justin Jones (bottom centre) can also be seen passing on his experience to the next generation, whilst the Executive Officer LCDR Charles Bourne (seated bottom right) is also is an active member of the training continuum.

AB McCarron.

CO HMAS Newcastle conducts training.

XO HMAS Newcastle conducts training.

Departmental Assistants

New departmental assistants join Newcastle.

New Departmental Assistants join HMAS Newcastle after completing an applicable application course at HMAS Cerberus. Currently (left) LEUTs Dane Wilson and Cameron Matheson and SBLT Maneckji Gazdar are fulfilling the trainee Engineering roles, while SBLT Nicole Noakes is studying within the Supply Department. After gaining approximately 18 months of sea going experience, they will have gained their quals.

Supplying The Fleet

Baking starts early in the galley.

It has been an exciting time for the Supply Department due to the hectic programme to support the FFG Upgrade Thales Tests and Trials. The ability to conduct on the job training throughout the end of 2008 and into 2009 has resulted in the Department achieving Aviation Sea Safety Assessment, the conduct of MEDEVACs by sea and air, and the satis factory completion of a number of material requirements for Ships in company. Further, AB Cook Kim Obst completed Part One of her Cook Competency Log, whilst SMN Steward Ashleigh Cooke also achieved Parts One and Two of her Steward Competency Log.