GOING HOME
FOR THE LAST TIME
HMAS Geraldton found time to visit her namesake city in Western Australia in the countdown to the patrol boat’s decommissioning on October 7. Navy News followed its progress.

IN CHAINS: Able Seaman Boatswain’s Mate Jason Vines heaves in on the head rope.

STAND TALL : HMAS Geraldton conducting a Ceremonial Sunset at the HMAS Sydney memorial in Geraldton.

FLAGGING FORTUNES: Lieutenant Anita Nemarich at the patrol boat’s decommissioning ceremony in Darwin.

The Patrol Boat FEG’s transition from Fremantle Class Patrol Boats to Armidale Class Patrol Boats took another step forward on October 7 when HMAS Geraldton (LCDR Aaron Nye) became the 11th FCPB to decommission from the RAN.

Many past and present crew members attended Geraldton’s decommissioning ceremony that was conducted at HMAS Coonawarra (CMDR Stu Wheeler).
The VIPs in attendance included David Tollner MP, the Federal Member for Solomon, NT, representing the Minister for Defence, the Deputy CN, RADM Russ Crane, and Deputy Maritime Commander Australia, CDRE Ray Griggs.

LCDR Nye said Geraldton served the RAN proudly for almost 23-years during which time she recorded many milestones.
At the start of 1987, Geraldton was in Fremantle to provide support for the organisers of the defence of the America’s Cup.
And four years later she was the ship featured in the production of Winds, a fictional story about the America’s Cup.

In July 1991, Geraldton provided assistance to the bulk oil carrier Kirki, who had lost her bow in heavy seas in the Indian Ocean. She raced to the scene of the stricken carrier and stayed on station until the emergency was over.
Geraldton relocated to Darwin in August 2001, and has actively patrolled the Australian Fishing Zone, conducting nearly 600 boardings.
The patrol boat’s consistent hard work and dedication has been rewarded throughout her history, winning the coveted Kelly Shield for the most proficient minor war vessel on four occasions – 1986, 1989, 1996 and 1999.

Geraldton conducted her final entry into Darwin Harbour on September 22.

“It was quite an emotional experience for all onboard,” LCDR Nye said.

“Sailing in right on sunset and with families onboard to share the experience was a fitting end to the ship’s service.”

LCDR Nye said Geraldton conducted her final visit to its namesake port, City of Geraldton, from September 12-16.
“It was such a great visit and the community of Geraldton really appreciated the chance to see the ship for the last time,” LCDR Nye said.

Activities alongside included an open day, visits to local schools, hosting the local Naval Cadet Unit, TS Morrow and conducting a VIP sea day.

“The highlight of the visit was the moving ceremonial sunset with the local Naval cadets conducted at the Sydney II memorial perched overlooking the City of Geraldton,” LCDR Nye said.
“Attended by many of the locals including ex-servicemen, this ceremony was a fitting end to our stay in Geraldton for the final time.”
Geraldton was the second RAN ship to bear the name. The first Geraldton was an Australian-built Bathurst Class Minesweeper, seeing active service in World War II.

.