HMAS Sydney II Commemorative Sunset Service

2007 Service

Navy Delivers Service with Respect

It takes an army of people to make events like the HMAS Sydney services memorable, but in this case all it took was the Navy.

Geraldton Mayor Ian Carpenter was blown away at the feedback and comments he received during the services on Wednesday.

“The ceremonies were a credit to the Navy and such a fitting tribute to the men we lost on that fateful day.”

“I received glowing comments on all aspects of the day, but in particular the way the Navy had handled the occasion and for presenting such a fitting service.

“We would like to thank the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane for delivering such a respectful and professional service. The day meant so much to the family and friends of those left behind and its success is a real credit to the Navy,” Mr Carpenter said.
 

Contributions Gratefully Received

The nation’s eyes were on Geraldton on Wednesday as we hosted relatives, friends and well wishers from all over Australia and the world, who came to remember and farewell the 645 men who perished at sea on board the HMAS Sydney II.

Mayor Ian Carpenter said it was a massive effort by staff and volunteers to put on an event of this scale and do it as well as we did.

“It was a fitting tribute to the men who lost their lives and we couldn’t have done it with out the financial contributions of the State and Federal Governments.

“We would like to especially thank the Premier, The Hon Colin Barnett and Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, The Hon Warren Snowdon for their generous contributions of $80,000 each.

“The contributions were used to hold remembrance ceremonies for those we lost and lay to rest an unknown sailor in the Geraldton War Cemetery,” Mayor Ian Carpenter said.