Rewarding careers launched

Hard work and dedication paid off for the 31 graduates of the Maritime Warfare Officer Course 07, who celebrated the completion of their training at HMAS Watson on December 10.

CAPTION: Commodore Training Commodore Charles Huxtable and other senior officers and special guests with the graduates of the Maritime Warfare Officer Course 07. Story by Lieutenant Nancy Cotton. Photo by Leading Seaman Leo Baumgartner.

Two years of practical, theoretical preparation and assessments earned these officers their Bridge Warfare Certificates and their Maritime Warfare Officer (MWO) professional qualification.

Parade reviewing officer Commodore Training Commodore Charles Huxtable said the men and women completed training in the most challenging of times because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They have excelled and shown determination to get through an intense course and should be very proud of that achievement,” Commodore Huxtable said.

“We have 31 officers joining our fleet who have a bright and exciting future ahead of them.”

The role of an MWO is demanding and diverse, with some of the most rewarding opportunities in Navy.

The training will now be consolidated as the graduates join Navy platforms as officers of the watch before undertaking their chosen specialisation.

As qualified MWOs, they are now ready to navigate the seas, represent their commanding officer, and take responsibility for the safety and control of vessels.

Acting Sub Lieutenant Cameron Brown said he was immediately overwhelmed when he first realised what the MWO course would be like.

“I never thought I would be ready, but the way the course is structured in both practical and theoretical learning, it’s very beneficial to the hands-on way I like to learn,” Acting Sub Lieutenant Brown said.

“The training continuum is one of the longest the Navy offers – you can’t expect to excel and succeed without complete focus.

“I have managed it and, despite the quantity and complexity of information, with the support of the staff at HMAS Watson, I am prepared for life out in the fleet.”

Fellow graduating officer Sub Lieutenant Toia Mangakahia said it was a relief to graduate and exciting to start her next adventure.

“I joined as a direct entry MWO submariner. I wanted a career that is both fulfilling and challenging,” Sub Lieutenant Mangakahia said.

“This course has developed me in ways I never expected. It’s encouraged me to grow in such a positive way.

“As a student, I’ve learned, but also in being a mentor to others.”

The 31 graduating officers will now join Navy’s fleet in various vessels, depending on their chosen specialisations.

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