The 4100-tonne FFG, HMAS Sydney is on her way home from duty in the Gulf and has an impressive list of statistics.

She spent 106 days on operation, did 30 compliant and 10 non-compliant boardings either by sailors fast-roping from a helicopter or going over the side from RHIBs.

Her Seahawk helicopter flew 60 sorties and spent 154 hours in the air.

Her sailors received 4500 kilograms of mail from Australia and more than 76,000 emails from friends and family.

The ship's commanding officer said , "Through hard work and unwavering dedication Sydney has earned a reputation as a ship that will get the job done regardless of the difficulties.

"I am extremely proud of the ship's achievements.

"My ship's company can feel justifiably proud of the part it has played in the Coalition Against Terrorism.

"As a result of its performance Sydney is a credit to the RAN and a testament to the calibre of those individuals who serve their country in the ADF," he said.

The CO also praised the families and friends of his sailors.

"My ship's company and I are indebted to our families and friends whose support is essential for us to perform as effectively as we have.

"To these people I would like to say, thankyou."

By Graham Davis