Royal Australian Navy decommission HMAS Broome (II) in Darwin

After almost two decades of intercepting illegal smugglers and conducting counter-terrorism operations, a beloved navy patrol boat has been farewelled at a decommissioning ceremony in Darwin. SEE THE PICTURES.

After almost two decades of intercepting illegal smugglers and conducting counter-terrorism operations, a beloved navy patrol boat has been farewelled at a decommissioning ceremony in Darwin.

On Thursday morning, a tight gathering of commanders, crew and their families said goodbye to Armidale Class Patrol Boat, HMAS Broome (II), following 17 years of reliable service.

Commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy in 2007, Commodore Terence Morrison announced the vessel had fulfilled its duty.

“She’s conducted operations primarily off the Australian coast with Border Protection, she’s also conducted exercises all through the South-East Asian region,” he said.

“She supported Operation Augury, which was our operation to counter-terrorism in support of the Philippines a few years ago.”

Commander of the Surface Force, Commodore Terence Morrison, says part of HMAS Broome (II) will be assessed for further use. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

While the vessel’s future is yet to be decided, Commodore Morrison revealed some parts of the ship would be salvaged for further service.

“The main thing I’m interested in as Service Force Commander is to utilise any parts that I need to,” he said.

“I'll be looking at harvesting parts to keep other vessels going.”

Of interest, military service is not the only contribution the vessel rendered during its lifespan, with the patrol boat having featured as HMAS Hammersley in the hit TV series ‘Sea Patrol’.

Crew members standing to attention aboard HMAS Broome (II) for the last time.

With hundreds of crew members having served aboard the vessel, Commodore Morrison said the day would feel sombre for some.

“There’s a bit of remorse and sympathy there, but you’re also proud to have served on that vessel,” he said.

“You do fall in love with them and there’ll be sentiments today from ex crew members.”

Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Christopher Wardle, spoke highly of the warship.

“There’s a mix of emotions, from sadness of Broome being decommissioned today to some excitement about what the future journey (of the crew) holds for them.”

HMAS Broome (II) is officially out of service. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie meets members of the crew. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Crew members during the ceremony’s parade. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

HMAS Broome (II) was decommissioned in an official ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter and Brigadier Doug Pashley in discussion. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Senior commanders attending the ceremony. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Memories of the ship was shared by speakers at the event. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Lieutenant Commander Christopher Wardle says the day was filled with “mixed emotions”. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter greeting senior commanders arriving on-site. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

HMAS Broome (II) from the starboard side. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

The ceremony was attended by about 100 people. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Commander of the Surface Force, Commodore Terence Morrison and Lieutenant Commander Christopher Wardle, with HMAS Broome (II) in the background. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Lieutenant Commander Christopher Wardle marches on parade. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Originally published as Royal Australian Navy decommission HMAS Broome (II) in Darwin