Retired admiral joins ATSB

THE appointment of Vice Admiral (retired) Russell Crane to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been welcomed by chief commissioner and chief executive Angus Mitchell.

The appointment of VADM Crane AO CSM as a marine commissioner was made by infrastructure and transport minister Catherine King.

VADM Crane had an extensive career in the Royal Australian Navy, culminating in serving as chief of navy between July 2008 and June 2011.

He was credited with initiating the New Generation Navy program and establishing the inaugural RAN Seaworthiness program.

His Navy service also included three seagoing commands (including of HMAS Success, then the largest vessel in the Navy), and serving as commander of the navy systems command, director general coastwatch, and deputy chief of navy.

Since retiring from the Navy, he has held several board and advisory roles.

VADM Crane started his three-year term as an ATSB commissioner on 14 December.

“With VADM Crane’s extensive experience as a highly experienced mariner and senior leader he is exceptionally well placed to help shape and guide the ATSB, and I have no doubt he will make a significant contribution to improving transport safety,” Mr Mitchell said. “I welcome his appointment and look forward to working with him.”

Mr Mitchell also acknowledged and thank Gary Prosser, whose term as an ATSB commissioner concluded on 13 December.

“For the past six years Gary’s wealth of maritime industry expertise, along with his guidance, influence and support, has been a true enabler for the ATSB, during which time he has played a key role in several significant marine incident investigations which have led to safety improvements not just here in Australia but internationally,” he said.

“All of us at the ATSB wish Gary well for his future endeavours and thank him for his exemplary service as an ATSB Commissioner.”

As an independent Commonwealth Government statutory agency, reporting to the minister, the ATSB is governed by a Commission comprising the chief commissioner and three part-time commissioners.