Stuart Changes Command
9 September 2008
The ship's company of HMAS Stuart experienced a significant change recently, with their “Boss”, CMDR Nick Woodley handing over the weight of command to CMDR Andrew Masters. Effective the 30 August 2008 in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, CMDR Masters became new Commanding Officer (CO) of Stuart.
Stuart has completed the 18th rotation of Operation Catalyst, Australia’s contribution to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Iraq, being relieved by HMAS Parramatta on 5 September. CMDR Masters’ first challenge as CO will be to conduct a port visit to Mumbai followed by an Opportunity Based Exercise (OBEX) with the Indian Navy. It is then intended to deliver the crew back to their families in Australia, for some well earned respite.
CMDR Woodley had been in command of Stuart since December 2006.
“The past two years have been extremely rewarding, I have been very lucky to have commanded such a professional and capable crew, I am proud of them and their achievements”, said CMDR Woodley.
“I am look forward to my next challenge in the RAN, but will not forget the time I have spent in Stuart”.
CMDR Masters entered the RAN in 1988 and after an extensive career in the RAN, is looking forward to his new challenge of commanding Stuart and her ship's company.
“Commanding a RAN warship is the pinnacle of a Seaman Officer’s career, I am committed to upholding the strong reputation that has already been established by the Tartan Terror”, said CMDR Masters.
