It was a day of curiosity and shared learning in Funafuti as the crew of HMAS Diamantina welcomed local students from Fetuvalu Secondary School on board for a tour during Operation Render Safe on July 2.

At the same time, Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force personnel worked alongside Tuvaluan authorities to deliver an unexploded ordnance awareness briefing to the Tuvalu Police Service Maritime Wing, sharing valuable knowledge to enhance community safety and strengthen regional partnerships.

The Diamantina tour was a hit with students. 

They learned why the ship's 'sweep deck' earned its name, how naval personnel communicate using signal flags and flashing lights, and even had the opportunity to operate the ship's fire hose.

Year 13 student Faaiu Simati said stepping aboard the vessel was an unforgettable experience.

"This is actually my first time being on a ship. This whole experience is interesting because it's not often that we get to see international ships,” Faaiu said.

Alongside the school visit, Operation Render Safe personnel delivered an explosive ordnance disposal awareness package to the Tuvalu Police Service Maritime Wing, focusing on the recognition and safe reporting of explosive remnants of war.

'Working together in Nanumea Lagoon helps protect our people and makes it a safer place for our families.'

Royal Australian Navy Chief Petty Officer Thomas Buchanan said the briefing provided local authorities with practical guidance on responding to suspicious items.

"The first thing to do if you see something suspicious is don't touch it. If it's safe to do so, take a photo, cordon off the area, warn others, and report it through your chain of command," Chief Petty Officer Buchanan said.

The session also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing. The briefing was well received by local authorities, including the acting police commissioner.

Constable Lutelu Tiute, of the Tuvalu Police Service Maritime Wing, said working alongside Australian personnel was a proud occasion.

"Helping the Australian ships makes me feel proud to represent Tuvalu,” Constable Tiute said. 

“Working together in Nanumea Lagoon helps protect our people and makes it a safer place for our families."

Operation Render Safe is the ADF-led multinational mission to remove explosive remnants of war from Pacific island nations.

During July, at the request of the Government of Tuvalu, a Royal Australian Navy task group comprising HMAS Diamantina and Pacific Support Vessel ADV Reliant conducted a technical reconnaissance of Nanumea Lagoon. 

The survey informed the Government of Tuvalu of the location and extent of explosive remnants of war in the lagoon.