Cadets tour HMAS Sirius

Fifteen local navy cadets from the TS Pilbara got to experience what life would be like onboard a navy ship after they were given a tour of the HMAS Sirius while it was docked at Port Hedland port last month.

The supply ship was the second navy vessel to dock in town since 2013, providing the cadets with a rare opportunity to learn about life at sea.

A Department of Defence spokesman said the ship spent three days in the port while its crew of 64 enjoyed some respite.

Before its arrival, it had spent 20 days at sea participating in a combined military exercise by the Australian Defence Force and the United States military.

TS Pilbara Commanding Officer Lieutenant Isle Gosper said the cadets toured most of the ship, including its accommodation quarters and engine room.

“It’s was a supply ship so we went all the way up to where the huge hoses were where they supply fuel and water at sea, ” she said.

“We also went all the way around the ship and learnt about how the ship sails … we went up the bridge and even sat in the captain’s chair.

“We were told all about the different aspects of life at sea and in the navy.”