The Sydney, an aircraft carrier, joined Task Group 95.1 on 3 October. The ship's standard patrol period was 10 days, with one day off for refuelling. The Sydney's tasks included close Army support, bombardment, air spotting, bombing guerilla targets, coastline reconnaissance, aerial photography and convoy protection. Ray's role in the Sydney was to man various positions in the operations room, aircraft direction room or radar display room. By 25 January 1952, the Sydney aircraft had flown 2,366 sorties, lost three air crew, three Sea Furies and three Fireflies.
Rays praises the Sydney crew for their efficiency and courage.
Credit must be given to the seamanship and the flying skills of all concerned on board in view of the dangers they faced every day. As the aircraft touched down the failed rockets launched themselves along the flight deck and dropped over the side into the ocean. By the time of his discharge in 1960, Ray had served in Korea, Papua New Guinea and the Far East Strategic Reserve. After his discharge, Ray spent 29 years in hospital administration, achieving Tasmania's most senior position in this field before retiring in 1989. Retirement has been a busy time for Ray with activities too many to mention.