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HMNZS Canterbury F421

This is the web site of the members of 3L mess. All members were from different branches and Lower-deck ranks, which, at the time was very unusual. But then the ship itself was very unusual. Everything it did was unconventional, from its work ethics to the BBQs on the flight deck, from the way it played at war to the way the crew dressed to go ashore.

This was pioneered by Lt Cdr Ian Bradley a very far sighted Officer and for most who served with him, commanded a great deal of respect.

Because of this unusual messing arrangement it was decided that the members should have regular reunions. 32 years on and 3L mess and the First Lieutenant still meet and keep in contact.

HMNZS CANTERBURY is a Broad-beamed Leander Class Frigate. The initial order was placed in 1968, built in Glasow Scotland by Yarrow Co for the RNZN and launched in1970, commissioned in the Yarrow yards in Scotstoun on 22nd October 1971 by HRH the Princess Ann.

Specifications : 1971

Commanding Officer :

Captain K.M.Saull R.N.Z.N.

1st Lieutenant :

Lieutenant Commander Ian Bradley R.N.Z.N.

CANTERBURY:

• Displacement 2500 tonnes standard 3200 full load
• Length 114 metres
• Beam 13.1 metres
• Draught 5.5 metres
• Machinery Two steam turbines driving twin shafts: 30,000 horsepower.
• Armament

  Twin 4.5" Mk 6 guns. (Place your mouse on the square)

  Two triple barrelled torpedo tubes
  GWS 22 Seacat short range missile System. (6.5Km)
  

  Westland Wasp helicopter (Place your mouse on the square

• Speed 30 knots
• Range 5,500 nm at 15 knots

Complement 245 Officers and Ratings.

It was the year of 71 they raised the white ensign and my life had begun.

Now 33 years later it’s been lowered at last

I’ve travelled the 7 oceans been manned by many a crew,

Had the smell of fresh baked bread rum and ffo.

The smell of rum has long since gone my brass all sparkling and bright,

It’s now time to turn in and say good night,

The good times still linger from birth in glasgow to the pomp of spithead,

The gracious sights of the indian ocean while helping a friend,

The start of mix messing a bbq on deck,

I wish to be remebered for being a proud kiwi who served you all well.

Red and Black were my colours traveling was my game,

Now its all over not to be done again.

Just let me rest in peace, dont breák me up to get infested with rats,

for all my grand service I don’t deserve that.

Huff feb 2005