HMAS Leeuwin Charts Waters in Eastern PNG

Australian Navy’s hydrographic survey vessel HMAS Leeuwin (A245) arrived in Port Moresby, in late October for a five week surveying task to chart waters in the eastern part of Papua New Guinea.

The proposed survey mission is of Long Reef and Rossel Island.

While in Port Moresby Harbour, Leeuwin’s Commanding Officer, Commander Nic Zillman, hosted several dignitaries of the Papua New Guinean Defence Force and National Maritime Safety Authority.

The crew welcomed two officers of the Papua New Guinean Defence Force Maritime Element to work alongside the Australians, providing local knowledge of the area and to assist with liaison between the ship’s survey teams and the local peoples.

After leaving Port Moresby, Leeuwin commenced passage to the east to commence sounding and tidal observations. A mid-survey port visit is planned for Alotau in Milne Bay.

Leeuwin will return to homeport in Cairns in late November.

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Image: Australian Navy