Choules brings sea life to shore

HMAS Choules received a warm welcome during a port visit to Hobart, opening its gangway to more than 800 Tasmanian locals.

CAPTION: Leading Seaman Maggie James on board HMAS Choules in Hobart. Story by Lieutenant Matilda Nile. Photo by Able Seaman Connor Morrison.

Anchored in tradition, the open day offered locals a unique opportunity to meet with Navy personnel, explore the versatile amphibious ship and witness time-honoured naval customs up close.

While memorable for those on board who rarely have the opportunity to see their home shores on duty, the visit held significance for the gap year personnel and new entry officers undergoing their initial fleet exposure phase.

For many, it was their first visit to Hobart in uniform, a proud moment shared with family and friends. But Midshipman Oliver Burbury said it was not all smooth sailing to get to Tasmania.

“We experienced some rough seas and some of our trainee members did get sea sick but it was an awesome experience to be out in the middle of the ocean,” Midshipman Burbury said.

Visitors were guided through areas including the bridge, vehicle deck, messes and accommodation spaces, to get a look at Choules’ operational capabilities and the daily life of those who serve at sea.

For Tasmania, a state with a growing number of recruits entering naval service, the visit was a chance to inspire the next generation of sailors.

Executive Officer Choules Lieutenant Commander Josh Cowell said the ship’s visit was not only operationally significant, but personally rewarding for his crew.

“It’s always an honour to bring a ship into port, but bringing Choules to Hobart with its deep naval heritage and links to our people made this visit truly special,” Lieutenant Commander Cowell said.

“For many of our sailors, this was a homecoming, and for our guests, an opportunity to connect with Navy first hand.”

One of the more memorable moments was the ceremonial sunset held on the flight deck. The tradition of lowering the Australian white ensign at the end of the day was highlighted with a special performance from the Royal Australian Navy Band’s Tasmanian contingent.

Musician Leading Seaman Maggie James performed the national anthem during the ceremony, just days after returning from France where she represented Navy at the Anzac Day dawn service in Villers-Bretonneux.

“As a young singer from Hobart, I never would have imagined that I’d one day have the opportunity to represent my country on such an important day,” Leading Seaman James said.

“Coming home after the Anzac Day performance, I feel even more connected to the service people around me, and, like today, I’m honoured every time I get to sing our anthem.”

Her performance, set against the backdrop of the River Derwent and accompanied by the solemn setting sun, resonated deeply with all in attendance.

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