Sailors from the HMAS Albatross performed their daily Colours ceremony in Wagga's Victory Memorial Gardens on Monday morning to celebrate the 120th birthday of the Royal Australian Navy.
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Wagga mayor Greg Conkey, Wagga MP Joe McGirr and Riverina MP and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack attended the ceremony.
Dozens of sailors stood to attention before the Navy's Australian White Ensign flag was hoisted at precisely 8am upon a derrick from the HMAS Sydney, accompanied by the ship's bell being rung and pipes from the boatswain's call.
Wagga Officer in Charge of Instructor, Assessor Training Section, Lieutenant Joshua Schultz said the anniversary was "very special" for the Navy.
"Every anniversary is special but it is more special to have the recognition of having the mayor and Deputy PM here as well," he said.
"Normally it's a quiet occasion, we'd do a Colours ceremony much like this one but to be doing it in town, in the city, members of the general public watching as well makes it just a bit more special for us.
"We actually do a Colours ceremony every single day in the Navy, at every single shore base at 8am. Historically it goes back to the days of sail when it would signify the start of the working day."
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Navy recruits spend time at Wagga's Royal Australian Air Force base as part of their Naval Air Technical training before returning to the HMAS Albatross at Nowra.
Wagga RSL sub-branch member and Navy 40-year veteran Rod Cooper, who served on the HMAS Melbourne aircraft carrier and was officer in charge of the engineering school at Garden Island, also attended the ceremony.
"We try to support all of the activities commemorating veterans past and present and we have got so many young people involved at this time," he said.
"It's an opportunity to reflect on my contribution over the time that I served.
"It's been a long time since I have been part of a Colours ceremony. I can't remember the last time."
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