HMAS BENDIGO tows two of the latest apprehensions into Darwin Harbour. Picture: ABPH Tracy Casteleijn.

Darwin's RAN-based patrol boats remain at the forefront in securing Australia's northern maritime approaches.

In another haul two boats have returned to Darwin with three Type 3 Foreign fishing Vessels in tow. HMAS BENDIGO apprehended twos of the vessels off Cape Wessel to the north-east of Darwin. HMAS GAWLER caught the third near Ashmore Reef.

It has been a particularly busy time for GAWLER which, since October 1, 2000, has conducted more than 100 boardings and made 16 apprehensions or seizures of fishing gear.

During the last year GAWLER has also intercepted more than 700 illegal immigrants travelling in eight separate vessels.