HMAS Kanimbla farewelled

The last of the Royal Australian Navy’s Amphibious Landing Platforms, HMAS Kanimbla, was decommissioned at her homeport of Garden Island, in Sydney, today.

Kanimbla’s dedicated service was acknowledged in a traditional ceremony attended by the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, AM, CSC, RAN and past and present crew.

During the ceremony the Australian White Ensign was lowered for the last time and handed to the Commanding Officer, Commander Brendon Zilko, RAN.

“Today represents the closing of a fine chapter in the history of Navy’s Amphibious Fleet,” Commander Zilko said.

“HMAS Kanimbla has provided outstanding service and dedication to duty over her 17 years, actively supporting National and coalition operations spanning from the Western Pacific to the Middle East.”

“Kanimbla was the first Coalition vessel to supply urgently needed medical supplies to civilian hospitals in Baghdad.”

“Kanimbla also undertook numerous humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions providing relief to thousands of people in Vanuatu, Indonesia and East Timor.”

“Today it is also important to acknowledge the hard work of Kanimbla’s past and present serving personnel.  They are the lifeblood of the ship, and Kanimbla’s proud history is theirs. Their dedication is what has allowed Kanimbla to respond to the numerous taskings directed by Government in both war and peace.”

“Kanimbla’s successes will be built on into the future with the introduction of the Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Dock providing advanced amphibious capability to Navy.”

“To tide us over until the LHD’s arrive, ADFS Choules will shortly be commissioned, enabling Navy to continue its vital role in the region.”

Kanimbla is a helicopter capable amphibious transport ship with a 40 bed hospital, which has seen an army contingent embedded as part of her crew.  A history of her service is available at http://www.navy.gov.au/Ship_Histories.

Media Contacts:

Raveena Carroll-Kenney, Communications and Media – NSW - 0405 310 176

Natalie Staples, Communications and Media Navy – East - 0419 840 646