The Shepparton local will be participating in the Rim of the Pacific for the fourth time this year, with this year his first as command of a Royal Australian Navy Ship.
Commander Maddison recently assumed command of HMAS Sydney, one of three Hobart-class guided missile destroyers and one of Australia’s most lethal maritime capabilities.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge of leading 200 highly competent Australians through what will be a challenging test of our readiness and preparedness,” Commander Maddison said.
RIMPAC aims to encourage interoperability (cooperation between groups and equipment) and interchangeability in a complex environment with partners in the Indo-Pacific.
This year, 29 countries are participating, including long-time allies like the Royal New Zealand Navy and nations from further away such as the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy.
Commander Maddison first attended RIMPAC in 2010 while he was a sub-lieutenant officer of the watch on HMAS Warramunga.
He later served on exchange with the United States Navy in Pearl Harbor for three years, which saw him participate in two more RIMPAC’s in his time there.
He said the best memories of RIMPAC are made ashore, interacting with international colleagues on various topics.
“My crew and I are looking forward to building and fostering relationships,” Commander Maddison said.
“This time around, I’m seeing people who I’ve previously met at other RIMPACs. We are all doing different jobs, and it is wonderful to reminisce about our previous experiences and reflect on how we have carried them into our new roles.”
While he has many favourite experiences from RIMPACs, his most memorable is when all the ships assemble at sea for a photo.
“When you have upwards of 40 ships and submarines from multiple nations operating in close vicinity within a mile of an aircraft carrier, it’s a truly impressive sight and something that lives with you for a long time,” Commander Maddison said.
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