USS Ronald Reagan leaves Brisbane

The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan has sailed from Brisbane today to take part in massive military training exercise in central Queensland.

USS Ronald Reagan has sailed from Brisbane’s port this morning after a five-day port call which saw hundreds flock to get a glimpse of the imposing vessel.

GALLERY: USS RONALD REAGAN IN BRISBANE

With more than 4000 American sailors on board, the 333m ship docked at the Port of Brisbane last Friday ahead of the launch of the Talisman Sabre, Australia’s largest joint-military exercise.

Locals look at the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, docked at the Port of Brisbane in Brisbane. Picture: AAP Image/Dan Peled

The USS Ronald Reagan arrives in Brisbane. Pic Peter Wallis

For some sailors, it was their first time in Australia and they took the opportunity to hug koalas at Lone Pine Sanctuary, climb the Story Bridge and explore the Gold Coast.

Some headed to Eagle St Pier to get a beer and celebrate post July 4 celebrations while others enjoyed a more scenic Lime Scooter ride along the Brisbane river.

USS Ronald Reagan brings Qld girl home and reunites family as it docks in Brisbane

USS Ronald Reagan to dock in Brisbane

The $4.5 billion ship will now head off the coast of central Queensland to commence a series of exercises with the bulk of training to be held at Shoalwater Bay.

More than 34,000 personnel from Australia, the US, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the UK are expected to participate in Talisman Sabre from now until late August.

The USS Ronald Reagan is seen docked at the Port of Brisbane in Brisbane on Monday. Picture: Dan Peled/AAP