Breakdancing, Bollywood, samurai swords, and snuggling snakes and crocodiles were just some of the cultural experiences shared during Exercise Kakadu’s international cultural exchange evening.
As the exercise’s shore phase came to a close, hundreds of participants from more than 30 nations came together at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin, to celebrate and share their nation’s cultural heritage, food and experiences.
Fleet Command physical training instructor Warrant Officer Corey Short spoke at the event.
“We are very proud to see all the nations here making new friendships and sharing different cultures tonight before we head out to sea tomorrow to begin the exercise’s sea phase,” he said.
As the Welcome to Country took place, Larrakia Elder Barney Quall expressed his appreciation of the important role Navy has in Australia.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Royal Australian Navy for protecting the land and sea for all Australians, so that we can live in harmony,” he said.
The evening continued with the presentation of the perpetual sports awards, following a full day of fierce but friendly competition between nations, with Indonesia taking out the Kakadu Sports Day Shield.
An array of unique acts ensued, including traditional Japanese drums and samurai sword performances, an energetic breakdancing routine by the Republic of Singapore Navy, and lively Bollywood dancing from the Indian Navy, which got the crowds on their feet.
As the night came to a close, Indian Navy Executive Officer P8I Commander Tarun Sharma read out a poem that celebrated the exercise’s theme of ‘regional cooperation through trusted partnerships’.
“As we start our shared vision, for a world safe and sound,” Commander Sharma said.
“This Exercise Kakadu 24 presents itself as a solid ground.
“‘Regional cooperation through trusted partnerships’ is the theme.
“And we are glad to see the world participating in high esteem.”
