Officer leaves a lasting legacy

HMAS Stirling has farewelled DCN CAPT Ken Burleigh at a change of command ceremony that formally marked the end of his tenure and the conclusion of a distinguished naval career.

CAPT Burleigh departs as the longest-serving CO in the base’s history, completing three and a half years in command during one of the most strategically challenging eras the establishment has ever faced.

His leadership coincided with the beginning of AUKUS, the journey towards Submarine Rotational Force – West (SRF-West), and the rapid expansion of Australia’s future nuclear-powered, conventionally armed submarine enterprise.

XO HMAS Stirling CMDR Fletcher Wall reflected on the scale of the transformation.

“In the Navy, we often speak of leaders who maintain the course,” CMDR Wall said.

“But to lead HMAS Stirling through the transformation of recent years required far more than keeping a steady course.

“You need a navigator to calculate the prevailing winds, the drift, and constantly adjust the ship’s heading, the foresight, dedication and ability to navigate through uncharted waters.”

Under CAPT Burleigh’s stewardship, HMAS Stirling evolved from a vital Fleet Base into what many now describe as the bedrock of Australia’s future maritime security.

Stirling laid the foundations for AUKUS Pillar I and earned the distinction of becoming the first establishment to receive both the Governor’s Cup and Gloucester Cup, recognising it as the highest-performing unit across Navy.

CMDR Wall highlighted the people-centred approach that defined CAPT Burleigh’s command.

“His legacy lies in his people,” CMDR Wall said.

“A ship is only as good as her crew. CAPT Burleigh understood that better than anyone.

“He has been a true people-first leader, approachable, genuine and steadfast in his care for the men, women and families who work at or call Stirling home.”

CAPT Burleigh started his career at HMAS Stirling 42 years ago, before going on to hold three commands, including a patrol boat, a guided missile frigate and finally a base establishment.

Speaking on behalf of CN VADM Matthew Buckley, CDRE Ben Favelle paid tribute to CAPT Burleigh’s highly successful career.

“I want to thank you for everything you have done, not only as the CO of HMAS Stirling, but also as a leader, mentor, advocate and friend to many,” CDRE Favelle said.

“Your ability to foster strong relationships and represent Navy with distinction was invaluable.

“The respect you have earned comes not simply from what you’ve accomplished, but from the way you’ve gone about it.”

In his final address as CO, CAPT Burleigh took time to thank each unit at Stirling for their tireless work, but reserved his most personal acknowledgement for his wife, Tracy.

“Of all the toughest jobs on the planet, the hardest is being my wife,” CAPT Burleigh said.

“Tracy has been by my side for over 36 years, she’s dealt with all the things that a Navy spouse has to deal with, and she’s done it without complaint.

“Now, as a reward, she gets to have me cluttering up the place on a permanent basis.

“Thank you dear, I love you. Now let’s spend the kids’ inheritance.”

Marking the end of the ceremony, CAPT Burleigh boarded Sirene, the sleek Fremantle Sailing Club yacht made famous in the 2024 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, and from the deck, waved farewell to a very different HMAS Stirling than the one he assumed command of three and a half years earlier.