Sailing into Sydney’s magnificent harbour aboard HMS Daring, one of the Royal Navy’s most advanced warships, was a spectacular experience. We were part of a fleet of 40 naval ships from 19 countries, there to celebrate the Royal Australian Navy’s 100th anniversary. I had spent two nights at sea on HMS Daring, and developed a healthy respect for the crew’s seamanship and camaraderie.
Britain turned out in style to support the event. In addition to the ship and the First Sea Lord, we also had the Band of HM Royal Marines. They drew many admiring glances as they marched through the streets of Sydney on parade with 4,000 sailors. Their musicianship and the precision of their drill demonstrated clearly why they are generally held to be the best military band in the world. I had the privilege of taking their salute on the steps of Sydney Opera House where they performed the Sunset Ceremony. It will go down as one of the most memorable moments of my Australia posting.
The Australian government had arranged a visit by HRH Prince Harry in his capacity as a member of Australia’s Royal Family. He toured the harbour with the Governor General, reviewing the assembled fleet. He was a huge hit with Australians young and old and PM Tony Abbott looked delighted as he introduced HRH to his daughters.
Apart from all the pomp and ceremony I had a very busy few days with our Defence Minister, Dr Andrew Murrison MP. He met the new Australian ministers from Defence and Veterans affairs, discussing how we can work even more closely together in the defence field, and increase collaboration on defence procurement in areas like submarines and frigates. He visited many British companies exhibiting at a big maritime trade show, who are playing a significant role in working with Australian partners to support the Royal Australian Navy. He also came down to Canberra to discuss plans for the commemoration of the WWI Centenary, on which he leads as PM Cameron’s Special Representative.
HMS Daring was busy all week. We really took advantage of having such a splendid RN asset in town. The ship is hosting networking receptions in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide for business and political leaders, as well as business events and a policy round table. They also welcomed on board many media representatives, resulting in a great deal of favourable coverage.
It was very appropriate that we were able to support the RAN’s birthday celebrations. The Royal Navy has been involved with the RAN sinceits earliest days. Indeed it has been involved with the city of Sydney since its earliest days. The first settlement was led by Captain Arthur Phillip RN.
Take a look at the following video our team has put together with some great footage of the UK’s presence at International Fleet Review 2013.