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Image Not Available for Invitation to Lindsey Shaw and Guest for the decommissioning of HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER at HMAS WATERHEN, Waverton, NSW on 14 August 2001
Invitation to Lindsey Shaw and Guest for the decommissioning of HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER at HMAS WATERHEN, Waverton, NSW on 14 August 2001
Image Not Available for Invitation to Lindsey Shaw and Guest for the decommissioning of HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER at HMAS WATERHEN, Waverton, NSW on 14 August 2001

Invitation to Lindsey Shaw and Guest for the decommissioning of HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER at HMAS WATERHEN, Waverton, NSW on 14 August 2001

Date2001
Object number00026794
NameInvitation
MediumPaper, ink
DimensionsOverall: 110 x 158 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis invitation is to the decommissioning of prototype inshore mine hunter Catamarans HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER. The first and only of their class, they were designed to detect, classify and neutralise mines in the approaches to and inside harbours of Australian ports. They were made from lightweight material (glass reinforced plastic) to ensure low magnetic, acoustic and pressure signatures to avoid triggering mines whilst also able to withstand the shock of underwater explosions. This invitation is indicative of the strong role of ceremony in naval life.HistoryHMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER were prototype 170 tonne inshore mine hunter Catamarans designed for mine hunting operations in sheltered waters. They were commissioned in 1986 and 1987 (respectively) and were built at Carrington Slipways in Newcastle. They carried between 13 and 14 crew that were accommodated in the two hulls of the ship which was a unique design for the RAN. Six were originally planned but only these two were ever built. Their base was HMAS WATERHEN. The catamarans were mainly used for training purposes, ensuring practical mine warfare skills were maintained in the RAN. They were designed to detect, classify and neutralise mines in the approaches to and inside harbours of Australian ports. The lightweight material (glass reinforced plastic) and design of the catamarans were intended to ensure low magnetic, acoustic and pressure signatures to avoid triggering mines whilst also able to withstand the shock of underwater explosions. They were 31 metres in length and nine metres in beam. After more than a decade of service they were both decommissioned on 14 August 2001 having been in reserve for several months.SignificanceThe traditions of the navy are reflected in the many ceremonial events associated with the life of a ship. This invitation is to the decommissioning of prototype inshore mine hunter Catamarans HMA Ships RUSHCUTTER and SHOALWATER, the first and only of their class. This invitation is indicative of the strong role of ceremony in naval life.