HMAS Geelong
In addition were central to Australia’s engagement with countries in the south-west Pacific region and deployed throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific in support of Australia’s strategic interests. The Fremantle class patrol boats (and now the Armidale class patrol boats) also supported Special Forces operations and provided a useful transport capability, particularly in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance operations.
Geelong was equipped with high-definition navigational radar, high and ultra-high frequency communications equipment, gyro compasses and echo sounder. It was also fitted with a satellite navigation system that enabled the ship’s position to be determined with great accuracy.
Geelong carries the battle honours:
- PACIFIC 1942-44
- NEW GUINEA 1944
These honours were awarded to the name Geelong in recognition of the career of the first HMAS Geelong (I), a Bathurst class minesweeper, active during the Second World War.
After 22 years of service, Geelong entered Darwin Harbour for the last time on 16 June 2006. It was the 7th of the Navy’s 15 Fremantle class patrol boats to decommission.
