Practice made perfect in the Philippines as officers and sailors from the Royal Australian Navy and Philippine Navy gathered for a series of training exercises and educational workshops in Subic Bay.
On a port visit to the Philippines during her regional presence deployment, personnel from HMAS Toowoomba revelled in the opportunity to connect with their counterparts, not only to share their seamanship skills, but to promote working and cultural understanding between two regional partners.
Over the course of the day, the Toowoomba crew hosted workshops and demonstrations on navigation, replenishments at sea (RAS) and general seamanship.
Toowoomba deputy marine engineer officer Lieutenant Ryan Hanaphy, who assisted with leading the tours, said it was beneficial for officers and sailors to learn more from their counterparts.
"While our senior leaders meet regularly, this was a great chance for junior officers and senior sailors to connect on a person-to-person level," Lieutenant Hanaphy said.
"By enabling us to learn how each other think, it strengthens our interoperability to work together safely and professionally at sea."
'Despite our different backgrounds and cultures, it was interesting to learn just how much we have in common.'
Lieutenant Hanaphy further noted how impressed he was with the level of skill and dedication of the Philippine Navy personnel.
"It was enlightening to work with experienced mariners from an island nation similar to Australia," he said.
"Despite our different backgrounds and cultures, it was interesting to learn just how much we have in common."
Philippine Navy Lieutenant Dan Bryle Madrid praised the crew of Toowoomba for their expert knowledge and willingness to share the lessons they have learned throughout their service.
"We are learning from the Royal Australian Navy the real-world seamanship that is taught to us in training school to elevate our knowledge and proficiency in seamanship, navigation and also other aspects of navy life," Lieutenant Madrid said.
In the exchange, Lieutenant Madrid said he was thrilled that his sailors were able to share their passion for maritime service with their Australian counterparts.
"The Royal Australian Navy can learn from the Philippine Navy sailors our sense of endurance and the patriotism of the Filipino people. We're learning this not just for our country, but to develop our cooperability with our neighbours, including Australia," Lieutenant Madrid said.
Toowoomba visited Subic Bay as part of her Indo-Pacific regional presence deployment throughout South-East Asia and East Asia, conducting training, exercises and other engagements with Australia's regional partners.
