Navy's future leaders complete initial training

After five months of intensive training, Navy has graduated its newest cohort of officers from the Royal Australian Naval College, HMAS Creswell.

Commanding Officer HMAS Creswell, Captain Charles Huxtable, said the officers are well prepared for a career in the Navy.

“Throughout the New Entry Officers’ Course, these men and women have shown themselves to be motivated and of high calibre,” Captain Huxtable said.

“Each member of the group has performed well and is now equipped to meet the unique demands of life both at shore and at sea.

“In their hands, the future of the Royal Australian Navy is bright.”

During the 19-week course, trainees are taught the knowledge, skills and ethos to be an effective Royal Australian Navy officer. The New Officers’ Entry Course includes theoretical and practical lessons in leadership, seamanship, communications, naval history, physical fitness and weapons handling.

Midshipman Grace Robson is following her family into a Defence Force career and said graduation was bittersweet.

“Initial training has been an incredible experience. I’ve made so many friends and learned how coming together as a team means we can achieve more than any of us thought possible,” Midshipman Robson said.

“My division feels like family now, so it is sad to say goodbye, but I’m really excited to get out into the Fleet and to continue my training to become a maritime logistics officer.”

The trainees showed off their dedication and precision with a ceremonial sunset performance and graduation parade. Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral David Johnston reviewed the class while friends and family watched on with pride.

Having completed initial officer training, graduates now progress into specialised training, skilling them in a wide range of fields including aviation, logistics, warfare, medicine and engineering.

Media note: 

Imagery will be available at https://images.defence.gov.au/S20171226