HMAS Broome decommissioned

After 17 years of proud service, HMAS Broome has decommissioned in Darwin, in front of former commanding officers, crew, families and friends.

CAPTION: Members of ship’s company of HMAS Broome prepare to march past during the vessel’s decommissioning ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin. Story by Lieutenant Commander Jonathan White. Photos by Able Seaman Jackson Dowling.

One of 14 Armidale-class patrol boats constructed for Navy, Broome has contributed significantly over the past two decades to a wide range of border protection and maritime security operations in Australian waters and throughout the south-west Pacific.

During its service, Broome steamed more than 568,000 nautical miles, and was underway for more than 43,900 hours.

Broome has participated in several multinational exercises in Australian waters and overseas, including Exercise Talisman Sabre in 2009 and 2017, alongside large numbers of US and Australian ships off the coast of Queensland.

In 2010, Broome participated in Exercise Penguin alongside units of the Royal Brunei Navy, and with the Philippines Navy in Exercise Lumbas.

Commander Surface Force Commodore Terence Morrison highlighted the operational service of Broome.

“She has been a floating embassy, welcomed in the ports across south-east Asia, contributing to the Australian Government’s intent and priorities,” he said.

“She is a ship built by Australians, in Australia, for Australia and crewed by Australians.”

Broome also participated in numerous high-profile activities that enhanced Navy’s reputation. It was one of several Armidale-class patrol boats that featured as ‘HMAS Hammersley’ on the television series Sea Patrol during 2007 and 2008.

It was one of many Australian and international naval vessels that entered Sydney Harbour for the International Fleet Review in 2013, to mark the centenary of the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet arrival.

It was also one of the Australian ships re-enacting the ‘Magnificent 7’ ships of the Australian fleet that arrived in Sydney Harbour on October 4, 1913.

Commanding Officer Broome Lieutenant Commander Chris Wardle commended his crew during the service.

“I am proud because of the ship’s company that I was fortunate to serve with on HMAS Broome and of the service of Broome herself,” Lieutenant Commander Wardle said.

“For those of us present here today and watching online that have been fortunate enough to serve on board her, Broome will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

In addition to ongoing contribution to Operation Resolute, Broome participated in the Australian Fisheries Management Authority’s Operation Sandfish, targeting illegal fishing activities in the Torres Strait.

In 2018, Broome served in support of Operation Augury, a joint patrolling operation with the Philippine Navy.

“If her bulkheads could talk she would tell the tale of raucous laughter from the mess decks, the embellished stories of a few fish caught on her quarterdeck and of tireless operational service,” Lieutenant Commander Wardle said.

“She has been trustworthy and true in her service, ensuring that all that served on board have made the return journey to home port and loved ones.

“As we finalise this ceremonial occasion saying goodbye and decommissioning this ship, I think it is important for all of us to note, you have made a difference, not only in each other’s lives but also in your service to your country.”

CAPTION: Members of HMAS Broome’s ceremonial guard form up for inspection during a decommissioning ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin.

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