Hobart welcomed the first Collins Class submarine visit to the region for five years, with the arrival of HMAS Farncomb into port late last week.
Commanding Officer, Commander Byron Williamson said the routine port visit allowed the submarine to be resupplied and provided some rest and recreation to the crew.
“We’ve had a busy couple of months, taking part in the International Fleet Review and exercise Triton Centenary. We’ve also conducted a variety of other events since departing Fleet Base West so a chance to spend some time alongside the beautiful city of Hobart was most welcome,” said Commander Williamson.
This was not the first time Commander Williamson had sailed up the River Derwent and into Hobart Port.
“It’s always a pleasure to visit Hobart. One of my most memorable visits was sailing up the Derwent as a competitor in the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Navigating a submarine into port is a little different, but no less memorable, with locals providing a warm and friendly welcome,” said Commander Williamson.
During the visit, Australian Naval Cadets from TS Derwent, potential recruits and media were given a tour of the submarine and heard first hand accounts of life as a submariner.
Farncomb’s five-day visit concluded with 30 of the ship’s company participating in the Remembrance Day service at Hobart’s Cenotaph on the Queen’s Domain. At the service Commander Williamson and Commanding Officer, Navy Headquarters Tasmania, Commander Stacey Porter laid wreaths.
Commander Williamson said it was a moving service.
“Remembrance Day is a symbolic day to remember the sacrifice of those who died or otherwise suffered in all our nation’s wars and warlike conflicts. My ship’s company were proud to represent the Royal Australian Navy and the submarine force at the Hobart service on this important day,” said Commander Williamson.
[mappress] Press Release, November 12, 2013; Image: Australian Navy