Navy honours Anzacs’ last port of call

HMAS Toowoomba visited Albany to mark the 110th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli, honouring the port of departure of the first convoy bound for World War 1.

CAPTION: Sailors from HMAS Toowoomba’s ship’s company march down York Street in Albany, Western Australia, on Anzac Day. Story by Petty Officer Keigan Gunther. Photos by Leading Seaman Rikki-Lea Phillips.

With a complement of 190 officers and sailors, Toowoomba’s crew took part in Anzac Day commemorations, including a dawn service and a ceremonial march along York Street in Albany.

Commanding Officer HMAS Toowoomba Commander Barton Harrington said the visit underscored the enduring importance of Anzac Day to Defence personnel, past and present.

“Anzac Day is a solemn reminder of the courage and sacrifice of all who have served in our armed forces,” Commander Harrington said.

“For Toowoomba’s crew, it’s an honour to represent the Royal Australian Navy in Albany, a town so closely tied to the Anzac story.”

Albany was the final departure point for the first convoy of Australian and New Zealand troops heading to World War 1 in 1914.

The significance of this historical link was not lost on Lieutenant Commander Darcy Cook, Weapons Electrical Engineering Officer aboard Toowoomba and a proud Albany local.

“Albany is where Australia’s Anzac story truly began, and to stand here in uniform, representing Navy on Anzac Day, is deeply personal. It’s a privilege I’ll never forget,” Lieutenant Commander Cook said.

“I am humbled to march alongside veterans, families and locals who keep the Anzac spirit alive.”

CAPTION: Army soldiers salute during the Anzac Day 2025 dawn service in Albany, Western Australia.

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