HMAS Perth home from three-month deployment
Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Perth has returned home to a warm welcome from family and friends after three months on deployment.
CAPTION: HMAS Perth returns home to Fleet Base West after a three-month deployment. Photo by Leading Seaman Brad Firin.
During her voyage, HMAS Perth performed border-protection duties as part of Operation Resolute and participated in Exercise La Perouse, a multinational exercise with Indo-Pacific regional partners.
The recently upgraded Anzac-class frigate’s service in Operation Resolute was part of the ADF’s contribution to protecting Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests under Australian Border Force.
Perth conducted surveillance and response in the nation’s maritime approaches, in addition to logistics visits to Darwin and Singapore that allowed crew members to explore new places and enjoy some respite.
As part of Exercise La Perouse, Perth worked alongside naval vessels from France, India, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Conducted in the Bay of Bengal, the French-led exercise focused on maritime security operations and involved drills to improve communication and coordination between countries.
Commanding Officer of HMAS Perth Commander Tony Nagle said he was proud of the crew members for their hard work, professionalism and dedication during the deployment.
“We have successfully carried out important missions that contributed to the security of Australia, as well as enhancing our cooperation with nations in the Indo-Pacific region,” Commander Nagle said.
For Seaman Geneveve Heibloem, on her first deployment, the experience was memorable.
“We have been able to work alongside our regional partners and contribute to the security of our region, which is something that I am incredibly proud of,” Seaman Heibloem said.
“I’ve also been able to visit places I’ve never been before.
“Doing so with my friends and colleagues on my first deployment was an experience I will never forget.”
Perth’s return was a special moment for families and friends.
Many braved wind and rain as they waited on the wharf, holding signs and banners, and greeted loved ones with cheers and applause.
Commander Surface Forces Commodore Terence Morrison also greeted Perth’s crew and thanked their family and friends for their support.
Commodore Morrison said HMAS Perth’s reputation for professionalism preceded her.
“Perth was given short notice for this deployment and, despite this, was able to contribute an extraordinary amount to not only the protection of Australia’s maritime interests but also to cooperation with our regional partners,” he said.
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