Deserved recognition for Australia's submarine community

ASC Managing Director Greg Tunny has praised the Royal Australian Navy’s submarine community for its clean sweep of the Navy’s annual fleet awards.

In particular, Mr Tunny recognised the achievement of HMAS Rankin’s crew, with the submarine taking out the RAN’s most prestigious annual award, the Gloucester Cup, for the second time in just four years. 

The Gloucester Cup is awarded each year to the major fleet unit or submarine that has been foremost in all aspects of operations, safety, seamanship, reliability and unit level training.

“HMAS Rankin’s success means a Collins Class submarine has been awarded the Gloucester Cup for the third time in four years,” said Mr Tunny.

“This is an outstanding accomplishment and deserved recognition for all those who have contributed to the operational support of the vessel, particularly the crew of HMAS Rankin.”

HMAS Rankin won a host of other fleet and submarine awards, including the Voyager Trophy (for overall anti-submarine warfare efficiency), Submarine Fighting Proficiency award (for overall submarine operations), the Submarine Silver Platter (for food service management) and the 2007 Platypus Cup for the best demonstration of the training needed by crews to ensure the safe and effective operation of a Collins Class submarine.

Fellow Collins Class submarines HMAS Farncomb (winner of the Electronic Warfare Proficiency Shield) and HMAS Collins (runner-up for the Australia Cup, for marine engineering efficiency) also achieved success in the 2007 fleet awards.

“We are always pleased to see the Collins Class submarines and their crews formally recognised for their tremendous capabilities, achievements and contribution towards Australia’s defence,” said Mr Tunny.

“ASC is proud to play a part in Australia’s submarine program and will continue its long association with the Collins Class through the provision of through-life support maintenance services.”

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