Ahistorical Navy commander from the South East recently travelled interstate to speak at the opening ceremony of a re-imagined base.
Commander Sandy Coulson CSM from Mount Gambier spoke at the official opening of the new Torpedo Factory Precinct at Sub Base Platypus.
The Minister for the Environment and Water the Honourable Tanya Plibersek officially opened the new facility which was formerly a torpedo factory, submarine base and gas works.
The base is now a community recreation and work hub in North Sydney and the homeland of the Cammeraygal people.
Mrs Coulson was the first female executive officer at an operational naval base and as such reflected on her time in charge of the HMAS Platypus which saw her serve as the executive officer alongside a senior submarine commander between 1988 and 1990.
“The base has closed but is reopening to the public as part of the Sydney foreshore,” Mrs Coulson said.
“I was invited back by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust to speak about my time there before Minister Tanya Plibersek unveiled the area being opened.
“I also feature with photos on a timeline of the use of the site so people will be able to read my story as they look at this part of Sydney Harbour.
“It was so great to be part of this amazing day with Minister Plibersek and many significant women in key roles, local politicians, the mayor, and the great leadership team of the Sydney Harbour Trust.
“The former HMAS Platypus where I spent three very happy years as base executive officer, is looking wonderful under the care of the Harbour Trust.”
Sydney Harbour Trust executive director Janet Carding oversaw the proceedings, which began with a memorable Welcome to Country by Sydney Harbour Trust acting chair Alison Page.
During her speech, Ms Page highlighted the importance of weaving First Nations stories and perspectives into protected heritage sites like Sub Base Platypus and providing experiences for all Australians.
The formalities culminated with Minister Plibersek cutting the ribbon to officially open the contemporary precinct to the public.
The precinct includes a car park, vantage point of Neutral Bay, three-piece mural by Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay artist Dennis Golding and a storytelling space featuring a decommissioned torpedo and other artefacts.
