FS Nivose and HMAS Leeuwin, a transfer line run out between them, liaise in the cerulean waters of far north Australia.

HMAS Leeuwin (CMDR John Maschke) enjoyed an encounter of a different kind in Australia’s Northern Waters recently.

Leeuwin, with HS Red Crew embarked, rendezvoused with the FS Nivose under the command of Capitaine de Fregate E Laccours.

Nivose is a Floreal Class FFG based at La Reunion in the Indian Ocean for offshore patrol duties and is currently conducting goodwill visits to Australian ports.

CMDR Maschke and French-speaking MIDN Helen Redfern made a formal visit to the French warship via the embarked AS350B “Taipan 64” from HC 723 Squadron.

They were followed shortly after by the Australian liaison officer for the day, LEUT Mick DeRuyter.

Leeuwin, in company with HMAS Bendigo then rendezvoused and stationed herself on course for a Light Line Transfer with Nivose.

Essential supplies were passed to the French, composed of three jars of Vegemite and a short note with regards to 1999 Rugby World Cup score, and in return a bottle of French Champagne was received.

After Leeuwin’s Liaison Officers were recovered by Taipan 64, a passing salute was given and all three ships went their separate ways.

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