This Web Site aims to make it easier to find out about the Officers’ Association and what we’re doing, whether you’re a member or new to the site. Do have a look round!
We’re really happy to take feedback – so do let our Webmaster know if something’s not right or could be improved!
For all the latest on what’s going on in the Establishment, check out the Royal Navy’s website: HMS Collingwood
Fish and Chip Fridays are back. Guests most welcome.
Upcoming dates:
Fri 30 Jan 2026
Fri 20 Feb 2026
Fri 27 Mar 2026
Fri 1 May 2026
Eat on a reserved OA table in the Main dining room from the standard daily menu. Cost for lunch is less than £5 per head depending on choice. Please let the Social Sec – social@hmscoa.org – know if you would like to attend. Please inform by the Monday of the relevant week with vehicle and attendee details. A function pass will be issued on the gate if needed. Please bring photo ID.
Tuesday 11th November was an overcast morning threatening rain at HMS COLLINGWOOD; nevertheless we were blessed with dry weather. Well over two hundred Officers, Staff, Trainees and Civilians mustered at 1030 at the Falklands Memorial for the Remembrance Day Parade, rather more we think than last year.
An ecumenical service led by the Establishment Chaplain included prayers and a reflection, with the last post and the two minutes silence.
A roll call of those in Naval Service who had died during the previous twelve months was read out and wreaths were laid by Captain Tim Davey on behalf of the Establishment and by Captain Jim Palmer on behalf of the Officers’ Association. A wreath was also laid on behalf of Cedar Court.
Many thanks to the PR team at HMS Collingwood and the photographer, Keith Woodland, who have kindly allowed us to display the photographs, which remain Crown Copyright.
We were delighted that almost 30 OA members with wives and guests chose to attend, retiring to the Wardroom on completion for an excellent informal lunch. Good times remembering our absent friends as well as meeting with those who are still around.
Lt Cdr Jill Monnox receives the OA Sword from Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse CBE.
On the 16th May this year, the OA Sword was presented at Ceremonial Divisions at HMS COLLINGWOOD by the Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff Operations and Commitments, Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse CBE.
The OA Sword had previously belonged to Lt Cdr David Cooper, who joined the RN in 1962 and served as a Communications Warfare Officer until leaving in 1987. The sword was originally presented to David by the Governors of the training ship HMS Arethusa on his commissioning in June 1964. Unfortunately, David wasn’t able to join us for the ceremony.
Lt Cdr Jill Monnox, accompanied by her partner, Pat Green, Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse and Captain Jim Palmer
The Sword was awarded to Lieutenant Commander Jill Monnox, for her work in the Warfare Training Group. Many congratulations to Lt Cdr Monnox for this award and we wish her well in her future career. A copy of the citation can be found on Jill’s OA Sword page.
Many thanks to the HMS Collingwood public relations team and photographers for use of the photos, which are Crown Copyright.
Joining
If you would like to know more about the Association, or would like to join, please contact our Membership and Social Secretary, Lt Cdr Martin Carr, Email: social@hmscoa.org.
The document outlines the minutes from the HMS Collingwood Officers’ Association Committee meeting held on September 17, 2025.
Apologies and Previous Minutes
Apologies were noted from Cdr D. Coombes, Lt Cdr C. Brooks, and Cdr N. Quine.
The minutes from the June 6, 2025 meeting were accepted.
Financial Report
The OA account balance decreased from £6,622.74 to £6,207.70, with a significant transaction of £368.25 for a sword.
The last sword is currently being refurbished. New donated swords to be sought.
Membership and Social Report
Membership totals 300, including 203 Active members.
Upcoming events include monthly Fish and Chip Lunches and the Trafalgar Ladies’ Guest Night on October 24, with 41 attendees confirmed.
A Shanty Band will perform, and the Cumberland Guard will be booked for the event.
OA Secretary’s Corner
Pass renewals are progressing well, with a trial period for not needing car passes currently in effect.
Capt Palmer will compile a newsletter and is seeking content ideas.
An informal lunch for OA members post-HMS Collingwood Remembrance ceremony was proposed and agreed upon.
AOB and Future Meetings
Lt Cdr Carr will explore venues for the December meeting.
Future meeting dates were set for December 3, 2025, March 18, and June 5, 2026.
The document outlines the minutes from the HMS Collingwood Officers’ Association committee meeting held on December 3, 2025.
Apologies and Previous Minutes
Cdr D. Coombes sent apologies.
Minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting were accepted.
Matters Arising and Financial Report
Increased attendance at the 2025 Remembrance Day was noted, followed by an informal lunch.
Lt Cdr Rook reported a decrease in the OA account balance to £5804.45, with significant transactions including a £368.25 payment for a sword.
Ten membership Direct Debits were canceled, and an increase in WR Mess charges is anticipated.
Membership and Social Report
Membership totals 298, with 202 active members. Recent losses included three members who crossed the bar and two resignations.
Social events, including Fish and Chip Lunches and the successful Trafalgar Night, were discussed, with future events planned.
OA Sec’s Corner
New car pass requirements include a BPSS application and DBS check, with costs discussed. Capt Palmer will address membership pass issues with the XO.
Other Business and Next Meeting Dates
The wooden Wardroom Name Board will be repurposed for OA Sword award winners.
Next meetings are scheduled for March 18, 2026, and June 5, 2026.
