This week is a significant anniversary on the Mornington Peninsula, with HMAS Cerberus formally commissioned as part of the Australian Defence Force 100 years ago.
The Royal Australian Navy’s premier training establishment and oldest commissioned base, HMAS Cerberus was formally commissioned on 1 September 1920. Affectionately known as the ‘Cradle of the Navy’, Cerberus currently provides training for all three branches of the Australian Defence Force.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, congratulated current Commanding Officer, Captain Mike Oborn and the entire Cerberus community for reaching such a momentous occasion.
“Local residents know that HMAS Cerberus is such an important part of the Mornington Peninsula story,” Minister Hunt said. “For 100 years, the base has provided training to new cadets who go on to serve our nation with pride and purpose as a member of the Australian Defence Force.”
“As part of normal life, there are approximately 1800 people at the base at any time, with approximately 6000 Navy, Army and Air Force personnel undergo training annually. Each of these individuals plays an important role in our local community.”
“The Morrison Government is continuing to support our local economy and the base, with more than $465.6 million in redevelopment works underway, with scheduled completion by mid-2023. This secures not only improved training for our next generation of cadets, but HMAS Cerberus’ legacy as an enduring part of the Australian Defence Force.”
To commemorate the centenary, Commanding Officer, Captain Mike Oborn, and senior leadership unveiled a ‘Centenary Plinth’ at the site of the base’s original commissioning.
Minister for Defence, Senator Linda Reynolds, also passed on her congratulations on the centenary of the base.
“As our oldest commissioned base, HMAS Cerberus has played a foundational role in the Australian Defence Force,” Minister Reynolds said.
“Our investment into the redevelopment of the base will deliver world class training, and will best prepare our forces of the future. I look forward to Cerberus continuing to play a role in the training of our defence forces for many years to come.”
The HMAS Cerberus redevelopment was announced in 2017 as one of the Local Industry Capability Plan pilot projects. The project is providing support for capability training and base support services, including:
· An engineering services upgrade
· Refurbishment of Living-In-Accommodation and Mess Facilities
· Construction of a new logistics precinct
· New School of Survivability and Ship Safety and new Survival at Sea facility,
· An upgraded physical training facility
ENDS