More than a change of title
Four Evolved Cape-class patrol boats were recently commissioned in a ceremony at their home port of HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin, Northern Territory.
CAPTION: Professor Hugh Heggie and Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, with the commanding officers and the youngest sailors of HMA Ships Cape Pillar, Cape Naturaliste, Cape Woolamai and Cape Capricorn at HMAS Coonawarra. Story by Lieutenant Commander Gary McHugh. Photo by Able Seaman Connor Morrison.
These vessels had been operating under the Australian Defence Vessel (ADV) designation and have now been commissioned into the permanent naval force as His Majesty’s Australian Ships (HMAS).
Commander Australian Fleet Rear Admiral Christopher Smith said the commissioning of HMA Ships Cape Pillar, Cape Naturaliste, Cape Woolamai and Cape Capricorn recognised the great work carried out by their crews.
“Today marks a significant milestone for our Navy, reflecting the integral contribution these boats make to Royal Australian Navy operations,” Rear Admiral Smith said.
“Originally procured as a temporary measure to bolster the defence and border force patrol effort during a period of patrol boat transition, the boats have become the backbone of our contribution to Operation Resolute.
“It is only fitting they bear the appropriate title of His Majesty’s Australian Ship and fly the Australian white ensign.
“This is more than a change of title. It highlights the importance of the role of these boats and their crews in safeguarding Australia’s prosperity and wellbeing in the maritime environment.
“To be a commissioned warship is to be a representative of Australia – the Australian population and what we stand for as a nation.”
Cape Pillar, Cape Naturaliste, Cape Woolamai and Cape Capricorn will continue to be used for the full spectrum of patrol boat operations, including border, resources and fisheries protection, customs and drug law enforcement operations, and international engagement.
Commanding Officer Cape Woolamai Lieutenant Commander Danielle Couch said it was a great honour to take command of one of Navy’s newest ships.
“I’m incredibly excited about taking command of this impressive ship and am looking forward to getting down to business when the ship sails later this week,” Lieutenant Commander Couch said.
The boats are the first to commission under the reign of King Charles III and the first in more than 60 years to commission as His Majesty’s Australian Ships.
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