The Royal Australian Navy’s helicopter frigate HMAS Anzac has arrived in Brindisi, Italy, as part of her NORTHERN TRIDENT 2015 deployment.
While in Brindisi, members of ship’s company will commemorate military service alongside colleagues from the Marina Militare (Italian Navy) at the Bari War Cemetery and at the Monument for Italian Sailors.
Together with the Australian Embassy in Rome, Anzac will co-host an official reception during the port visit, and Anzac’s Commanding Officer Commander Belinda Wood, RAN, will also host a mentoring session with female members of the Italian military.
“The original ANZACs of 100 years ago served throughout the Mediterranean, and it is significant that we are able to visit the Bari War Cemetery where two Australian Navy personnel are among the 43 Australian military members buried there,” Commander Wood said.
“We are also proud to be able to attend a wreath laying ceremony at the Monument for Italian Sailors, where we recognise the camaraderie that Australian and Italian mariners have shared over the years.
“I look forward to working with members of the Marina Militare and Brindisi community, and my crew are looking forward to enjoying the famous Italian cuisine and culture,” Commander Wood said.
Anzac departed Sydney in March 2015, and transited the Southern Ocean, Indian Ocean, the Red Sea and Suez Canal before arriving in the Mediterranean Sea.
During the five month deployment, the ship has represented Australia at Centenary of Anzac commemorative events in the Sea of Marmara, Cape Helles and Gallipoli and is continuing to do so in Italy and Malta.
Media note:
Imagery of the deployment and this visit is available at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20150611
Media contact:
LEUT Des Paroz +61 423 390 540 (in location)
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
