GEELONG captures CO's Challenge Cup July 24, 2000 The jubilant ship's company of HMAS GEELONG with the combined CO's Challenge Cup. HMAS GEELONG has finally managed to wrestle the Combined CO's Challenge Cup from HMAS GAWLER. GAWLER held the trophy since its inception three years ago. Despite a valiant effort from the defending holders of the Cup, they were beaten seven to four in what was described by eye witnesses as a very tough game of touch football. GEELONG's navigator, Cath Hayes, played a dazzling game, scoring two tries and setting up two others. Neil Davenport was voted "man of the match" with three tries and some outstanding defence work. The Combined CO's Challenge Cup was introduced to foster sporting competition among the FREMANTLE class patrol boats. It can be challenged for at any time with any sport. A confident CO of GEELONG, LCDR Bob Plath, intends to hold onto the trophy for some time to come. Just in case any other patrol boat CO has designs on the Cup, he has had it bolted into the cabinet. The FREMANTLE class patrol boats perform one of the more visible of the Navy's tasks - patrolling Australia's extensive Exclusive Economic Zone.