THE Royal Australian Navy recently celebrated the 50th birthday of HMAS Cairns which was first established as a patrol boat facility in 1971 and commissioned as HMAS Cairns in 1974.
The base was moved in 1982 and now sits on the site of a former Navy ship repair facility, originally built at the outbreak of World War II.
HMAS Cairns hosts approximately 800 Navy and civilian personnel and is the home port for six naval vessels.
The base provides maintenance, logistic and administrative support for Cairns-based fleet units and its responsibility extends from Rockhampton to Thursday Island.
HMAS Cairns commanding officer Commander Alfonso Santos, CSC, RAN, said the anniversary was about celebrating naval history and the connection between Navy’s people and the surrounding Cairns region.
“The people of HMAS Cairns value our relationship with the local community,” Commander Santos said.
“We appreciate every opportunity to support our neighbours in Far North Queensland, including during the recent floods.
“Defence personnel conducted flood rescues and resupply operations throughout the region which was really rewarding work.”
Anniversary celebrations included a formal parade ceremony known as divisions, reviewed by Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, AM, CSM, RAN.
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Police service receives needed boost and Young assaulter arrested.
