Maryborough opens her hatches one last time

As part of its final deployment, HMAS Maryborough welcomed more than 1600 visitors for a rare glimpse into life on board an Armidale-class patrol boat.

CAPTION: Leading Seaman Andrew Price demonstrates fire hose techniques during HMAS Maryborough’s open day. Story by Sub-Lieutenant Nicole Clough.

Maryborough held an open day on September 10, while berthed alongside Southport Marina on the Gold Coast, ahead of preparations for its decommissioning later this month.

During the open day, members of the crew gave visitors a tour of the ship that included a weapons and boarding party display, damage control firefighting equipment and an opportunity to ride in one of the ship’s two 7.2m jet rigid hull inflatable boats.

Maryborough sailor Midshipman Jackson Marsh said opening the ship to the public was something special.

CAPTION: Members of the public await rides in HMAS Maryborough’s 7.2m rigid hull inflatable boats.

“To engage with the public and celebrate the life and service of a ship such as Maryborough was an experience and privilege I am proud to have been a part of,” Midshipman Marsh said.

The crew of Maryborough gave visitors an understanding of how the Navy and its patrol boats operate.

The open day was held in conjunction with ADF Careers Robina, and was particularly of interest to those considering a career in the ADF and Navy.

CAPTION: HMAS Maryborough alongside Southport Marina on the Gold Coast for a Ship Open to Visitors Day on Sunday 10 September 2023.

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