Commanding a Navy base is never a simple task, and for Captain Rebecca Levitt, her tenure as Commanding Officer HMAS Kuttabul has been a professional milestone and a deeply personal honour.
As she formally handed over command to Captain Iain Hutchins, Captain Levitt reflected on a period marked by operational excellence, resilience and people-focused leadership.
"Commanding a base like Kuttabul has been one of the greatest highlights of my career," Captain Levitt said.
"But no commanding officer achieves success alone. I've been privileged to lead an exceptional team of Navy personnel and civilian staff who have worked tirelessly every day to support fleet operations, and my thanks go to every one of them."
As part of the ceremonial handover, Captain Levitt passed on a symbolic weight representing the gravity and responsibility of command to Captain Hutchins.
"It's a visual reminder that leadership in the Navy is not just about holding authority, but bearing responsibility - for people, capability and culture," Captain Levitt said.
'The legacy of any commanding officer is not in the bricks and mortar, it's in the people.'
Captain Iain Hutchins is no stranger to leadership at sea or ashore, having previously served as Commanding Officer HMAS Diamantina, Executive Officer HMAS Canberra, and in key roles at the operational and strategic headquarters.
"It's an absolute privilege to take command of Kuttabul," Captain Hutchins said.
"This is a base with strategic importance and a rich naval history.
"As the largest naval base in Australia, it is one of the oldest and most storied, and has supported maritime operations for more than a century. It's humbling to follow in the footsteps of the leaders who've come before me."
Located in the heart of Sydney, Kuttabul is an operational naval establishment that incorporates Garden Island and Fleet Base East.
It is home to Fleet Headquarters and multiple units, and is the principal mounting, sustainment and administrative support base on the east coast of Australia.
As Captain Levitt concluded her command, she acknowledged the base support.
"The legacy of any commanding officer is not in the bricks and mortar, it's in the people. I leave knowing Kuttabul is in very capable hands," Captain Levitt said.
