Navy has formally farewelled the three remaining Armidale-class patrol boats, HMA Ships Albany, Bathurst and Childers, in a solemn decommissioning ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin. 

The event not only marked the retirement of three distinguished vessels but also symbolised the closing chapter of a significant era in Australia’s maritime history.

Together, the ships accumulated more than five decades of service, during which they played a vital role in safeguarding Australia’s borders, enforcing maritime security and protecting national interests. 

From intercepting illegal fishing operations to supporting humanitarian missions and joint exercises with allied nations, Albany, Bathurst and Childers embodied the resilience and dedication of the Armidale-class.

Serving and former crew members, Navy personnel, veterans and community representatives attended the ceremony, gathering to honour the crews and the ships themselves. 

Speeches reflected on the vessels’ contributions, while the lowering of the white ensign for the final time served as a poignant reminder of their loyal service. 

The Commanding Officers of Albany, Bathurst and Childers, Lieutenant Commanders Phillip Wager, Matthew Hams and Benjamin Edwards, handed their respective ships’ ensign to Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Chris Smith.

Captain Patrol Boats, Captain Ross Upton, looked proudly upon the ceremony and acknowledged the outstanding work delivered by the ships and the entire Armidale-class.

“These three ships are an excellent example of the duty and dedication provided to the nation by the patrol boat force,” Captain Upton said. 

“It is an honour to attend this ceremony today and I look forward to the next chapter of service being delivered by the Cape- and Arafura-class ships.”

Commissioned in 2005 with the introduction of HMAS Armidale, the class was designed to replace the Fremantle-class patrol boats and enhance Australia’s maritime patrol capability. 

During the past two decades, the Armidale-class became a familiar presence across northern waters, ensuring the integrity of Australia’s maritime domain.

The decommissioning closes the book on the Armidale-class, paving the way for the next generation of patrol vessels. 

Cape-class patrol boats and the Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels will continue the mission of protecting Australia’s seas with modern technology and expanded capability.