Royal Australian Navy member dies on RAN’s newest patrol boat

A member of the Royal Australian Navy has died onboard the RAN’s newest patrol boat, Australian Defence Vessel Cape Inscription, less than a month after the boat was christened.

CAPTION: Commanding Officer ADV Cape Inscription Lieutenant Commander Iain McCall ‘Cheers Ship’ with his crew at HMAS Stirling, Western Australia, on the occasion of the ship’s naming ceremony, on 6 June 2017. ADF photo.

Defence says the cause of death is not know at this time.

“It is with deep regret the Australian Defence Force can confirm the death of a Royal Australian Navy member,” a Defence spokesman said.

“The member was deployed on Operation RESOLUTE in Australian Defence Vessel Cape Inscription.

“Next of kin have been informed and Defence is providing support to the member’s family and shipmates.

“On behalf of the men and women of the Australian Defence Force, the Chief of the Defence Force extends his deepest sympathy to the family, friends and shipmates of the deceased member.”

Defence Minister Marise Payne also released a statement.

“It is with great sadness I acknowledge the passing of a Royal Australian Navy member,” the minister said.

“The member was deployed on Operation Resolute, the Australian Defence Force’s contribution to the whole-of-government effort to protect Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests.

“I extend my deepest sympathies and those of the Australian government to the member’s family, colleagues and friends and I express my gratitude for the deceased member’s service to our nation.”

Defence also said it was liaising with local authorities and, since the cause of death was not yet known, it was not appropriate to provide further details at this time.

Cape Inscription is the second of two Cape-class patrol boats leased by the Commonwealth from WA shipbuilder Austal for use by the Royal Australian Navy.

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