Traversing hemispheres and sailing the seas is thirsty business for an Anzac-class frigate, but they don't always have time to pull into port to keep on the move.
One month into her regional presence deployment, HMAS Toowoomba required refuelling in the East China Sea, in the middle of nowhere, where the water was 200 metres deep, with crashing waves two metres high.
With the assistance of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force replenishment vessel JS Towada, Toowoomba was able to top up her tanks, all while travelling at 12 knots (almost 30 kilometres an hour), just 50 metres apart.
Carrying out a replenishment at sea (RAS) isn't for the faint hearted. It involves two ships travelling in unison on the same course for hours, while transferring up to 10,000 litres of aviation and diesel fuel every minute.
With zero margin for error, Commanding Officer Toowoomba Commander Alicia Harrison was at point for the entire procedure.
"It was impressive to see an Australian and Japanese vessel operating so seamlessly together. It really goes to show that maritime excellence transcends all languages," Commander Harrison said.
'You have to ensure you're communicating with the bridge, the people out on point, those in the machinery control room and engine spaces.'
Toowoomba is transiting the East China Sea on her regional presence deployment through South-East and East Asia, demonstrating Australia's commitment and ability to maintain a near-continuous presence in the region to support regional security and stability.
"Regional presence deployments deepen Australia's defence partnerships across the region, enhancing our ability to work together. Complex replenishments at sea, conducted safely and professionally with partner navies demonstrate the success of this intent," Commander Harrison said.
For Able Seaman Deklyn Pearce, it was his first RAS at the controls as a fuel specialist, but he said he didn't have time to feel the pressure.
"I was surprised. I guess I was too busy to be nervous - there's too much going on," Able Seaman Pearce said.
"You have to ensure you're communicating with the bridge, the people out on point, those in the machinery control room and engine spaces. There's a lot of technical moving parts to ensure it's a success."
Able Seaman Pearce's responsibilities include clear communication and extend far further than just filling up at the bowser.
"There's a lot of pressure. We have to monitor the fuel intake, ensure we're transferring the right amount and at the right speed, and simultaneously conduct fuel samples of what we're receiving," Able Seaman Pearce said.
