A collection of images from HMAS Anzac's deployment to the Persian Gulf, plus the homecoming to Fleet Base West.

After an extended deployment to the Arabian Gulf, HMAS Anzac sailed into her homeport at Fleet Base West on Saturday November 24, to a warm and enthusiastic welcome from family and friends.

The frigate has been helping to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq, which involved Anzac's crew boarding 55 merchant vessels sailing in and out of Iraq, checking for smuggled oil and contraband.

Ship's company were all smiles as they greeted their families on the wharf. For a number of the crew it was a first opportunity to meet new additions to their families, born while the ship was deployed. For some ship's company, families had come from the eastern states to welcome them home.

The commanding officer, CAPT Nigel Coates said "I am exceptionally proud of the crew and the excellent results the ship achieved during our deployment."

It was not only the CAPT of the ship who had high praise for Anzac, VADM Charles Moore, Commander United States 5th Fleet, said "I salute Anzac's hard work, dedication, and selfless service. It has been an honour and a pleasure serving beside the professionals in HMAS Anzac".

"Anzac's superb combat readiness and outstanding performance exemplified the historic traditions of the Royal Australian Navy".

The ship was originally programmed to be home in October, however her deployment was lengthened after the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11.

HMAS Anzac will now undertake a period of maintenance, and the crew will have a well-deserved break with family and friends over the Christmas period.

The guided missile frigate HMAS Sydney has replaced Anzac in the Gulf and commenced operations enforcing sanctions against Iraq. Sydney was farewelled from Darwin late last month.

By Gary Booth