A commemorative service at the Navy Memorial, Anzac Parade Canberra has marked the Royal Australian Navy’s 120th birthday. The Commonwealth Naval Forces were established on 1 March 1901, two months after the federation of Australia, it should also be noted King George V granted the service the title of “Royal Australian Navy” on 10 July 1911.
Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Michael Noonan AO, RAN said Navy can draw strength and honour from humble beginnings 120 years ago. “We are far from the fledgling naval force formed in the autumn of 1901,” VADM Noonan commented.
Admiral Noonan acknowledged the importance of Navy people and roles they have played in this development. “Our competitive advantage is our Navy family, all those who have contributed past and present.” This service is demonstrated by looking no further back than 2020.
“In the past year, the Royal Australian Navy has faced new and unexpected challenges as part of the Australian government’s responses to bushfires, a global pandemic and other humanitarian and disaster relief operations.” Vice Admiral Noonan discussed Navy in its upcoming 121st year. “We will keep evolving, deepening our connection with the Nation and supporting our partners and neighbours.”