The sixth and final 'plastic fantastic' for the RAN, the coastal minehunter Yarra was launched in Newcastle last month.

She is expected to be commissioned in September.

The 720-tonne fibreglass warship was built at ADI's Carrington shipyard.

Her hull is designed to withstand tremendous underwater shocks. Yarra's hull is single skin without any ribs or reinforcing frames.

The hull also has very low magnetic signature and noise levels.

On board, all machinery and equipment is mounted in cradles or suspended from bulkheads to further enhance shock resistance and protect ship systems.

Yarra, along with sister ships Huon, Hawkesbury, Norman, Gascoyne and Diamantina, form a $1 billion contract.

The vessels boast the most advanced mine warfare capability.

Yarra was launched by Mrs Sylvia Merson, wife of CDRE Red Merson (Rtd) who commanding HMAS Yarra 3 in 1961.

The ceremony took place in Newcastle on January 19 and attracted a good crowd.

To be commanded by LCDR Alexander Hawes, Yarra will carry the bow number 87, with a ship's company company of about 42.

The minehunter's principal task is to keep Australia's maritime focal points for trade free from the threat of mines.

Once mines are detected the ship deploys a remote control mine disposal vehicle or clearance divers to identify and, if necessary, neutralise the mine.

By Graham Davis