All Aboard - Next stop Darling Harbour

7 February 2008 By LCDR Chris Cooper

Attack Six embarked HMAS Armidale were privileged to participate in the "Pacific 2008" Sea Power Conference at the Sydney Convention Centre from 29-31 January. Arriving in Cockle Bay via the swing-bridge in company with HMAS Gascoyne and HMAS Benalla, the three ships provided a very impressive backdrop for the three day conference.

The presence of an Armidale Class Patrol Boat (ACPB) in Cockle Bay generated large amounts of public interest which was enhanced by the presence of the Today Show Weather Team on 29 January who conducted four live crosses from various locations around the ship.

During the three day conference, HMAS Armidale had a constant flow of delegates visiting the ship including Admirals and Admiralty staff from India, Indonesia, Iraq, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, United Kingdom and United States of America. Additionally HMAS Armidale hosted scores of defence contractors, teachers and local NSW students interested in defence careers.

Taking time off between the busy tour ship schedule, the Attack Six crew could not resist the photo opportunity provided by the Darling Harbour tourist trains and in the absence of a crocodile, which has been adopted by the Darwin based crew as their motto, a shark seemed the next best thing.