The Sydney was stationed off the grounded Tiru for approx two days. Patrolling up and down, slowly, in the continual swell. I as an Engineroom Chief Petty Officer continually struggled to keep the engines of the Sydney (Ex Aircraft Carrier) operating proficiently at so low a speed and for a long period. A very busy time but for a good cause.
 

When we arrived the seas heavy swell was continually breaking on the reef and diesel smoke could be seen coming from the Tiru. As soon as we arrived my memory recalls that we may have attempted to pull the Tiru of the reef but getting the tow line attached was difficult for the Tiru as well as placing the Sydney in danger close to the reef. HMAS Vendetta was called to help. We maintained station away from the reef until Vendetta pulled you off.
 

During the time on station we were requested to help as a man overboard had happened from the Tiru. We launched sea boats to help, with urgency, as the waters were infested with sharks. A cheer went up on Sydney when we were informed he was rescued and we sent our Doctor. Samuel Sakker to help.
 

We all wondered as to how the Tiru ran aground and I have not thought about it until I was compiling this Vietnam project.

Note: David Highnam is compiling a video and photo history of the HMAS Sidney during the Vietnam War period. He completed 13 trips to Vietnam from 1966 to 2000.