On Saturday 17 July 2010, ANMM members boarded HMAS Vampire in black tie, finery and ceremonial Navy uniform to celebrate her service in the RAN with our annual traditional Navy mess dinner in the wardroom.
Guests seated at the HMAS Vampire wardroom dinner
CAPT Paul Martin RAN (Rtd), who commanded Vampire 1982-83, hosted as the dinner’s president and CMDR John Ellis RAN (Rtd) as the vice-president.
CAPT Paul Martin RAN (Rtd) prepares for the wardroom dinner
Members were served pre-dinner cocktails and canapés on the ships deck, a sumptuous three-course meal in the wardroom and took part in the time-honoured traditions such as the ‘passing of the port’ (an old naval ritual going back to before the time of Nelson) and the ‘loyal toast’ (a salute to the King or Queen).
The 'passing of the port' at the HMAS Vampire wardroom dinner
There are more photos of this spectacular event on Flickr, click here for the slideshow.
Read more about Naval customs and traditions at the Navy.gov.au website.
If you’re interested in taking part in future exclusive events, see our Members page on our website (or drop into the museum) for more information on how you can become a valuable member of the National Maritime Museum.