Commander Bill Waters, Commanding Officer Her Majesty’s Australian Ship (HMAS) Melbourne, is seen ‘Taking the Weight’ as Melbourne assumes responsibilities from HMAS Newcastle (rear of photo) for operations in the Middle East Region as part of the Combined Maritime Forces.

‘Taking the Weight’ is a Navy tradition that symbolises the transfer of the prestige, privilege and burden of command. In this case the weight has taken the form of a rhinoceros.

Commander Bill Waters, Commanding Officer HMAS Melbourne, is seen ‘Taking the Weight’ as Melbourne assumes responsibilities from HMAS Newcastle (rear of photo)for Operation MANITOU in the Middle East Region. 'Taking the Weight' is a Navy tradition that symbolises the transfer of the prestige, privilege and burden of command. In this case the weight has taken the form of a rhinoceros.
Commander Bill Waters, Commanding Officer HMAS Melbourne, is seen ‘Taking the Weight’ as Melbourne assumes responsibilities from HMAS Newcastle (rear of photo) in the Middle East Region.