It is an elevation in the honours system for the former Illaroo Road and Bomaderry High student and Nowra-based naval aviator, who had previously been awarded the AM.

“It is quite gratifying that someone put me forward for honours again,” he said.

“I sometimes wonder what we do to receive these awards when we are only just doing our jobs.”

Rear Admiral Barrett gained his latest honour for distinguished service as Commander Border Protection Command and Commander Australian Fleet Command.

The citation said he distinguished himself through selfless devotion to duty and outstanding achievement in challenging circumstances, displaying calm and inspirational leadership as Commander Border Protection Command and as Commander Australian Fleet, and successfully and deftly guiding implementation of fundamental Seaworthiness Management reforms across Fleet Command. 

In a career spanning more than three decades including various command posts, Rear Admiral Barrett was recently appointed as the new Chief of Navy, a post he will take up in July.

He will also assume the rank of Vice Admiral.

He said he was proud of his Shoalhaven links.

“I’m don’t mind at all being referred to as a Nowra boy, because that’s what I am,” he said.

“We still have a house here at Hyams Beach and we spend as much time as we can in the Shoalhaven.

“We definitely feel like locals.

“When I joined the RAN I never expected one day I would end up as Chief of Navy. But that is now the position I find myself in.

“I’m sure that position will be challenging, like every job I have had in the navy.

“But I expect it will also produce extraordinary satisfaction as well.”