Phillip Island welcomes HMAS Cape Woolamai

HMAS Cape Woolamai has exercised its freedom of entry to Phillip Island for the first time, with 40 sailors and officers marching through Cowes in a celebration of the ship’s relationship with its namesake community.

Under clear sunny skies, the ship’s company marched from Cowes Jetty, past the cenotaph and up Thompson Avenue to the council office at Berninneit, carrying the ceremonial scroll granting them the right to enter the town.

CO Cape Woolamai port crew LCDR Danielle Couch said it was a special occasion.

“The ship’s company are so excited to be here, we’re so excited to interact with the community and so proud to represent Phillip Island every day,” LCDR Couch said.

“This event is important as it allows us to connect with our namesake community on the island.”

The vessel is named after Cape Woolamai, a town and headland on Phillip Island.

With swords drawn, colours flying and the RAN Band providing the soundtrack, the sailors were met by Bass Coast Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Tessari, who formally challenged the parade before granting permission for the ship’s company to proceed.

The significance of the occasion was reflected in the strong turnout from locals, visitors and members of the Phillip Island RSL, who lined the route to welcome the crew.

“The overwhelming support Phillip Island has given us is something I will remember for a very long time,” LCDR Couch said.

“The crew are absolutely loving being down here and interacting with the community.”

LCDR Couch said it was particularly meaningful to see veterans turn out for the parade.

“We’ve had a very strong relationship with the veteran community on the island, and it was great to see them turn out,” LCDR Couch said.

For CO Cape Woolamai starboard crew LCDR Luke Pracy, the occasion was equally significant.

“It’s been wonderful to come down. The reception we had from the Phillip Island community, the mayor and the RSL has been great,” LCDR Pracy said.

“I look forward to the relationship continuing for as long as Cape Woolamai serves.”

LCDR Pracy said the parade held special significance.

“It’s an absolute honour. It’s my first freedom-of-entry parade and very special to do it as CO,” LCDR Pracy said.

Mr Tessari described the ceremony as one of the highlights of his time in office as mayor.

“This is one of the greatest things I’ve done as mayor. It was unbelievable and so enjoyable,” he said.

“Islanders are proud of their island, and they love any chance to come out for something like this. It was really well embraced.”

Mr Tessari said the occasion was significant for the community and the ship.

“It’s an historic first for both HMAS Cape Woolamai and for the island. It’s their first freedom of entry, and it’s the first time we’ve had something like this,” he said.

Phillip Island RSL president Ray Young, who spent more than 40 years serving in the Navy as a chef and coxswain, said it was particularly rewarding to see so many locals and veterans attend.

“As president of the RSL and as an ex-sailor, it was wonderful to stand and watch the freedom of entry,” Mr Young said.

“It was great to see how many locals and veterans turned out.”