HMAS Canberra Show

The Commander of the Australian navy flagship, HMAS Canberra sent a letter saying that the Canberra had used '1000 Miles ago' as its anthem (all Australian and British ships have an anthem that they play when they leave port and when they peel off at full speed from at sea refuelling) for a dozen years and this year the ship is being decommissioned and broken down. He wanted to give it the best of send offs and asked if the band would fly out to the ship the day before it enters harbour for the last time and play the song live on the foredeck.

This was one of the most stunning days the band have ever experienced. It was a very emotional journey for the Captain and crew of the Canberra as it sailed into its berth for the last time and they certainly made the band feel like an integral part of their family. Added to the experience was the addition of Dave's Dad, Martin, to our tour party on the ship. Marty was on the original Canberra on the day it was sunk during WWII and his presence was greeted with admiration and virtual reverence by the present ship's company. Just prior to the band's performance of '1000 Miles Away' on the deck of the ship, Marty was presented with a special Officer's Cap to mark his presence at the decommissioning event. Proud father and an even prouder son!

The guys were taken up in helicopters by the combat crew and they commenced to show how straight up - and down - one of those things can go. It was a total honour for the Gurus to have been present on this very special day.