28 March 2006
HMAS Norman in the Yarra River

Defence, as part of the overall Australian Government contribution, is working alongside the Victoria Police to provide security for the Games, as well as providing a range of ceremonial and general support to Melbourne 2006 (M2006) Corporation and the Office of Commonwealth Games Coordination, the Victorian Government's Games organisers.

This support is known as Operation Acolyte. Acolyte is Greek for Helper or Assistant and was chosen to symbolise Defence supporting role in the staging of the Commonwealth Games.

Operation Acolyte will include approximately 2,600 Australian Defence Force personnel, from across the three services, performing a range of specialist roles to provide security, ceremonial and general support. These extra troops will be accommodated at, and working from, existing Defence establishments in and around Melbourne including: Simpson Barracks, Watsonia; Maygar Barracks, Broadmeadows; RAAF Williams, Laverton and Point Cook; and, Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.

The Department of Defence, through Operation Acolyte, will assist in providing world class support to ensure a safe, secure and successful staging of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.

20060314ADF8212771 - 123 Sub Lieutenant Chris Meaker on port watch aboard HMAS Norman in the Yarra River, Melbourne. (Date taken: 14 March 06) Low-Res | Hi-Res	20060314ADF8212771 - 215 Submerged MDV Mine Disposal Vehicle on board HMAS Norman searches for mines in the Yarra River. (Date taken: 14 March 2006) Low-Res | Hi-Res
20060314ADF8212771 - 326 Able Seaman Diver Simon Scott, HMAS Norman on the job and under the water keeping our sea lanes in the Yarra River safe. (Date taken: 14 March 06) Low-Res | Hi-Res	20060314ADF8212771 - 331 Able Seaman Diver Simon Scott, HMAS Norman on the job and under the water keeping our sea lanes in the Yarra River safe. (Date taken: 14 March 06) Low-Res | Hi-Res