Welcome home recognises family

ADV Cape Woolamai has officially been welcomed to her homeport of HMAS Coonawarra, with a ceremony at Larrakeyah Defence Precinct on September 29.

CAPTION: Captain Simon Cannell presents a challenge coin to Leading Seaman Grady Munks during a homeporting ceremony at Larrakeyah Defence Precinct, Darwin, NT. Photos by Petty Officer Leo Baumgartner.

The crew of Cape Woolamai were led by their Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander James Knight in parade past Reviewing Officer Captain Simon Cannell, Commander Mine Warfare, Clearance Diving, Hydrographic, Meteorological, Oceanographic and Patrol Force.

Lieutenant Commander Knight said: “Today is about recognising the entire Woolamai family; those who were down in Western Australia, and their loved ones back home or interstate, and the sacrifices that everyone has made to get us here today”.

Cape Wooalami is named after the south-eastern tip of Phillip Island and has a ceremonial homeport of Cowes, Victoria.

Leading Seaman Tyrel Dalla Rosa expressed his enthusiasm at being part of the crew.

“Not all heroes wear capes, though they serve on them and support them from afar,” he said.

Cape Woolamai is the fifth Evolved Cape-class patrol boat to be accepted into service. The ships serve as part of the transition between Armidale-class patrol boats and offshore patrol vessels.

Evolved Cape-class patrol boats will continue to support constabulary missions, and maritime patrol and response duties alongside Australian Border Force vessels, other ADF units and regional partners.

CAPTION: ADV Cape Woolamai, in the water after being launched at Henderson, Western Australia in February 2023. Photo courtesy of Austal.

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