Fleet review, open day salute PNG independence

Thousands lined the waterfront at APEC Haus in Port Moresby this week as naval crews stood to attention and ships passed in formation during a Fleet Review by the Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae.

CAPTION: Australian Army personnel from the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, join PNG Defence Force members in a ceremonial gun salute during the Fleet Review at APEC Haus, Port Moresby. Story by Captain Katy Manning. Photos by Corporal Jack Pearce.

The event brought together seven vessels from PNG, India, France, Tonga and Australia ahead of the 50th anniversary of PNG independence this month (PNG50).

It also served as a formal naval inspection, showcasing discipline, tradition and the cooperation that links Pacific maritime partners.

Participating ships included India’s INS Kadnatt, France’s FNS Auguste Benebig, Tonga’s VOEA Ngahau Koula, PNG’s HMPNGS Gilbert Toropo, Ted Diro and Rochus Lokinap and Australia’s HMAS Childers.

Earlier in the week, more than 3000 locals explored HMAS Choules, joining PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) members, the ADF and Pacific partners.

The fleet open day at the Old Cargo Wharf gave locals a chance to step aboard the ship and see daily naval life.

CAPTION: From left, senior French and British officers stand alongside Chief of Navy Australia, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, during the Fleet Review at APEC Haus, Port Moresby.

Many came for their first look inside a major amphibious vessel.

Royal Australian Navy medic Able Seaman Makayla Coulson said the day was about connecting with the community and showing the ship’s capabilities.

“There were lots of friendly faces and photos,” Able Seaman Coulson said.

“We showed the public how we keep fit on deck, demonstrated firefighting equipment and explained the role of the medical team at sea.”

PNGDF Lieutenant Moses Andreas, of HMPNGS Tarangau, said the visit highlighted how cooperation continued to grow between partners.

“It’s good that HMAS Choules is here,” Lieutenant Moses Andreas said.

“We only have a few vessels alongside, so this cements our relationship. It’s about celebrating 50 years, and looking ahead, step by step, hand in hand.”

Visitors toured the vehicle deck and the flight deck, guided by ADF personnel who explained the ship’s operations and daily life at sea.

The event also reflected a long history. Australians and Papua New Guineans served side by side during World War 2 – a bond that continues through exercises, training and operations in the Pacific.

CAPTION: Lieutenant Commander Joshua Cowell, Executive Officer of HMAS Choules, joins in a selfie during an open day on board Choules.

Choules has previously hosted PNGDF personnel at sea, supporting training and building mutual trust. This year, the ship will assist with ceremonial and accommodation elements of PNG50.

As the sun dipped and the lowering of the ensign closed the day, for many, it symbolised resilience, unity and the enduring partnership between PNG and its Pacific neighbours.

At the Fleet Review, Childers carried particular importance. Commissioned in 2007, the Armidale-class patrol boat bears the motto ‘To Serve With Honour’.

Australia’s Armidale-class and PNG’s own Guardian-class patrol boats are central to fisheries protection, border security and customs enforcement. They also provide their navies with greater capability to patrol and control waters close to the mainland.

CAPTION: Seaman Felicity Smith from HMAS Choules speaks with locals during an open day.

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