DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE
MSPA 363/09
Friday, 23 October 2009
FIRST NAVY COMMANDER IN EAST TIMOR
Commodore Stuart Mayer from the Royal Australian Navy has taken command of the
International Stabilisation Force (ISF) that is working to maintain security and restore
normality in East Timor.
Commodore Mayer is the first naval officer to command the ISF. He assumes responsibility
from the outgoing ISF Commander, Brigadier Bill Sowry, today at a handover ceremony in
Dili.
Brigadier Sowry, who was recently bestowed the Timorese Government’s highest honour, the
Medal of Merit, says economic stability and community confidence in East Timor has been
moving in a positive direction.
“While there is still work to be done, the improvements in East Timor’s social and economic
stability are apparent,” Brigadier Sowry said at the handover ceremony.
“The streets are busy, marketplaces are open and employment opportunities are being
created.
“In the past year, these improvements have enabled ISF troops to reduce their presence on the
streets while still being on-hand to provide a rapid response if required. Importantly we are
seeing provincial policing responsibilities passed from the UN to East Timorese police units.
“I welcome Commodore Mayer and know his leadership of the ISF will be of great benefit to
East Timor as the nation moves forward,” Brigadier Sowry said.
Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans congratulated Brigadier Sowry on
his outstanding tenure as Commander of the Australian led Joint Task Force.
“He has overseen a period of ongoing improvement in the security situation in East Timor
that has seen a significant enhancement in the capability of East Timor’s Police and Defence
Forces,” Lieutenant General Evans said.
Commodore Mayer has held numerous command positions at sea and at Maritime
Headquarters in Australia since joining the Royal Australian Navy as a Seaman Specialist in
1984.
Commodore
Mayer is a recipient of the Conspicuous Service Cross and served in
multiple theatres of operation.
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