Publication:The Fearless Times Issue 2 2009/A Rare Visit To Pakistan

Toowoomba, completed a three day visit to Karachi, Pakistan to develop cooperation and promote understanding and friendship between their two Navies. This port visit to Pakistan is only the second visit by a RAN vessel in 16 years.

This was the first time most of the ship's company had visited Karachi and we were delighted that Toowoomba received a resounding welcome.

The busy program of activities put together for our visit included many opportunities for the Pakistan Navy (PN) and the RAN to work together to increase understanding of each other's navies and develop joint training opportunities.

There were many opportunities to encourage professional cooperation between the and the RAN including group discussions and presentations on competency based training, boarding party operations, weapons maintenance and damage control of fires, floods and toxic hazards at sea.

As well as professional development, an important part of the visit was the cultural, social and sporting occasions offered by the . Members of HMAS Toowoomba had the opportunity to play sport, including a cricket match against the Pakistan Navy as well as visit some of the local museums and shopping malls.

Toowoomba hosted an official reception onboard the first evening of the visit attended by the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, His Excellency Tim George, the Defence Attaché Islamabad and Kabul, CAPT Mel Schmidt, as well senior Naval Officers from Pakistan Navy, and local business and community members.

The official reception was an opportunity for Toowoomba to show their appreciation for being hosted and shown such great hospitality by the during our visit to Karachi.