It is with much sadness that I pass on Jo Burgess' email detailing the passing of Noel. Although I was not at NIRIMBA during Noel's short time there, I did ship with him in HMAS SUPPLY in the early 1960s and we ran into each other occasionally during our Navy careers. There is quite a story about how we got flowers for our girlfriends, somewhere in North Ryde it was but that is another story!!
RIP Noel, we are with you in spirit
Bob Mummery
Hi Bob,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. My darling husband of 46 years, Noel… passed away yesterday afternoon around 3:00 pm. He was aged 82 years old.
Noel was battling Vascular dementia and other vascular issues when he died.
Noel was in the second intake of apprentices in January 1957, aged 15 years. Not being a very good ‘Chippy’ he rejoined the RAN and left after 44 years full time and part time service, as a Lieutenant Commander.
I will let you know of the funeral details shortly…
Another fine sailor has crossed the bar!
Warm Regards,
Jo Burgess (Noel’s wife.)
His Vietnam Service consisted of:
2 x Escort Trips to Vung Tau in HMAS Yarra in 1966 as an Acting Petty Offficer Airman Meteorological Observer.
Another pioneer MOBI gone, very sad. My condolences to his family and friends.
RIP Noel
With nearly 11 Intakes separating us, Noel Burgess was well before my time, 
although I did pick up on something very interesting... 
(No disrespect to Noel intended, I assure you...) 
Although Noel failed to make it through as an apprentice Chippy, 
it seems that retiring as a LCDR 
Makes one rather proud to have 
successfully graduated as a Chippy 
doesn't it..? 
VALE, Noel, 
may you Rest In Peace... 