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Defence Solutions team commitment in North Queensland
TAFE Queensland’s Defence Solutions team plays a crucial role in helping Navy, Army and Air Force members confidently transition into civilian careers and employment.
As a major and expanding employer in North Queensland, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) works closely with the Defence Solutions team – supporting veterans and connecting current personnel with training opportunities.
In acknowledgement of the team’s commitment and valuable service to Naval base HMAS Cairns and its members, TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions Officer Michael “Wulffy” Wulff was privileged to receive a personal invitation to attend the retirement ceremony of Skipper and Commanding Officer Afonso Santos CSM.
Naval handover ceremony for HMAS Cairns
The TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions Team has maintained a longstanding relationship with the Naval base HMAS Cairns. Home to Fleet Support Unit - North East, the base offers crucial support to operational vessels, along with maintenance, logistics, and administrative services for units based in Cairns.
Wulffy, a subject matter expert in maritime at TAFE Queensland, received a personal invitation to attend the retirement ceremony of Skipper and Commanding Officer Afonso Santos CSM. According to naval protocol, members retire at the age of 60.
The retirement ceremony, which included a handover ceremony to the new CO Commander Andrew Thorpe, was attended by all ship's company at HMAS Cairns and support personnel. Afterward, Commander Santos and his family left the base on the Naval Work Boat Otter, which has a link to Michael Wulff as the Otter was extensively used by Navy Clearance Divers during his time in the Navy.
Alfonso 'Alfie' Santos has distinguished himself with a commendable naval career, joining the RAN from Sydney, NSW, in 1996 as a recruit Boatswain’s Mate. As a sailor, he served in HMA Ships Arunta and Warrnambool as well as the Sea Training Group as a damage control instructor. Commander Santos assumed command of HMAS Cairns on January 21 2022.
Transitioning from the Permanent Forces or Reserves to civilian life is possible under certain conditions: reaching compulsory retirement age (60 for Permanent Forces, 65 for Reserves), no longer being medically fit to serve, or being made redundant.
“Being invited to attend the handover is a great honour; Commander Santos will be sorely missed,” Wulffy said.
Wulffy has previously been invited to Naval Week and to deliver retention divisional briefings on base to over 300 members.
When Australian Defence Force (ADF) members transition to civilian employment, the TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions Team provides individualized advice and training on career options.
The team collaborates closely with TAFE Queensland's Townsville campus, Laverack Barracks, Great Barrier Reef International Marine College and TAFE Queensland Cairns campus to support HMAS Cairns' maritime personnel and local engagement efforts.
For inquiries, please contact the TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions Team at 07 32440155 or via email at defence@tafeqld.edu.au
TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions Officer Michael (Wulffy) Wulff is a fourth-generation defence force member, serving as a Naval Clearance Diver and Counter Terrorist Water Operator with SAS Regiment for seven years.
Wulffy now works closely with Naval base HMAS Cairns to not only help veterans successfully support transition into civilian life through Queensland Government sponsored TAFE Queensland's Defence to Civilan Success Training Program, but also connect current Navy members with local training that will enhance their effectiveness with naval operations.