HMAS STUART RENDERS AID TO IRANIAN FISHING VESSEL

Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) ship HMAS Stuart, an Australian frigate, on deployment to the Middle East, responded to a request for medical assistance on board an Iranian fishing vessel, the MV Sahal, in the Arabian Sea April 7^th.

Stuart, an Anzac Class frigate, was conducting maritime security operations in the Arabian Sea as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, when she was informed of a medical request on board the Sahal. Stuart the closest CMF unit to the Sahal made contact with the fishing vessel and established that the mariner needed urgent treatment.

A Stuart crew with medical supplies, was immediately dispatched to the Sahal by rigid hull inflatable boat. Once alongside, basic first aid equipment was given to allow him to remain onboard.

NAVY PEOPLE: I WAS LOOKING FOR SOMETHING MORE IN LIFE

 

Just before New Year’s Eve, local girl Amanda ‘Hutchy’ Hutchinson said farewell to her partner Rachael, her two step-daughters Tiffany and Crystal, her mum and dad and both her grandmothers.

But it was no ordinary goodbye. The former Pegasus player was heading off for a six-month maritime security patrol in the Gulf of Aden.

She and her 190 shipmates aboard HMAS Stuart will be home in the middle of this year.                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

“After Kurnai College I started as a cleaner in the Autistic Centre, worked on a farm, and ended up in a Telstra call centre,” said Amanda.

Amanda’s brother John now plays soccer for the Central Coast A League, and Amanda herself was no slouch in Morwell Pegasus, but she was looking for something more in life.

“My partner Rachael is ex-Navy, and was also the Commanding Officer of the Navy cadets — it was Rachael who encouraged me to give the Navy a go full-time and without her support I wouldn’t be where I am now.

AUSTRALIA DAY OVERSEAS

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon, joined the ship’s company of HMAS Stuart in the Persian Gulf yesterday for a morning tea to acknowledge Australia Day.

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon meets with ommander Brett Sonter Commanding Officer of HMAS Stuart

HMAS Stuart, which is crewed by 190 members, commenced maritime security operations this week in the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper. While deployed, Stuart is working in an area of operations that covers more than two million square miles of international waters to conduct counter-terrorism, counter-piracy and maritime security operations.

Addressing the ship’s company yesterday, Mr Snowdon commended the sailors for the significant role that they carry out in the Middle East as part of the Combined Maritime Forces, which showcases Australia’s security credentials at the international level.

“It is a source of great pride for me, and for the people of Australia, to see the determination and commitment you display as you commence this important mission. Your skills and professionalism enable Australia to make a valuable contribution to regional stability and in the provision of security to sea trade,” Mr Snowdon said aboard HMAS Stuart.