Armidale class patrol boats head to Darwin for decommissioning

Armidale Class patrol boats are in Darwin for decommissioning. Read why they’re done.

Australia’s last three Royal Australian Navy Armidale class patrol boats have travelled to Darwin for decommissioning.

Commissioned between 2005 and 2007, Australia’s three remaining Armidales sailed into Darwin Harbour last week in readiness for a decommissioning ceremony expected on Thursday.

Armidale Class patrol boats HMAS Albany, Bathurst and Childers berthed at HMAS Coonawarra in Larrakia in preparation for the ceremony.

Armidale Class patrol boats will be decommissioned on Thursday.

They joined the three other patrol boats already berthed in Darwin also awaiting decommissioning.

The job of dismantling the boats has been awarded to Paspaley, the same company that will own and operate Darwin’s shiplift.

In a social media post, the Navy said the decommissioning would take place from 8am NT time on Thursday December 4 and be televised live on YouTube.

“This milestone marks the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the (Australian Navy) as we introduce the Evolved Cape Class and Arafura Class vessels, ensuring we remain ready for future challenges.”

Andrew MacGee posted on Facebook the experience of seeing the Armidales decommissioned left him feeling old.

“I was at the commissionings of the Bundaberg and Wollongong, and that doesn’t seem so long ago to me.”

Robert Williams paid tribute to the crews.

“De-Commissioning HMAS Derwent was both one of the saddest and best days of my career,” he said.

“To all the ships crew, take notice of your crew mates and remember you all served on-board your ship with pride and teamwork. We will never forget your service.”

Roger Knights wrote: “So sad they’re gone. Great boats to drive, albeit a few structural issues. Seems like they weren’t around long.”

Originally, 14 Armidale Class boats were commissioned, with only three remaining operational.

Originally published as Armidale class patrol boats head to Darwin for decommissioning