Staff and special guests have joined together at the Submarine Training and Systems Centre (STSC), HMAS Stirling, Western Australia to celebrate 25 years of delivering training to the Submarine Force. 

Attending the event were Commanding Officer HMAS Stirling, Captain Brian Delamont  and Commander Submarine Force, Captain Geoff Wadley, CSC,  who was a student at the centre when it was first opened on 17th March 1993 by the then Governor General His Excellency Bill Hayden, AC.

The STSC houses several combat, platform and propulsion system simulators, auxiliary plant training rigs, and a fully functional diesel engine. These learning systems maximise training ashore to develop the competence and confidence of the trainee before they proceed to sea. Innovative solutions in the learning environment include a desktop virtual submarine walkthrough and virtual reality console operator training modules; state-of-the-art technology all developed in-house at STSC.

Part of the morning tea involved the traditional cutting of the cake by the Director and the youngest member of the organisation. This year the knife was shared by Director Training Authority – Submarines, Commander Dylan Findlater and Seaman Electronic Warfare Kale Vassallo.

Commander Findlater said it was a privilege to lead such an important organisation and work with a thoroughly dedicated and professional team.

“In 25 years we have trained more than 1100 submariners and based on that foundation, the STSC and Submarine Enterprise has a fantastic future.

“It’s great to see everyone taking time out to acknowledge the growth and significance of the organisation.” 

STSC employed 36 staff when it first opened with 45 students. It now employs 45 uniformed staff and APS, as well as approximately 40 civilian contractors to manage, develop and deliver initial, category and career development training for submariners. The current student body numbers approximately 150.