The Hon Gerry Brownlee
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The Hon Kevin Andrews MP
18 Sep 15
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The Hon Kevin Andrews MP
Minister for Defence
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1 April 2015
Today, HMAS Newcastle was farewelled from Garden Island, setting course for the Middle East region on Operation MANITOU.
The Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott MP, joined family and friends to farewell the HMAS Newcastle crew.
Representing the Minister for Defence, Ms Scott said that after months of preparation, HMAS Newcastle departed today for six-month deployment to provide logistic support for coalition forces in the Middle East region.
“This is HMAS Newcastle’s fifth deployment and the 60th rotation of a Royal Australian Navy Fleet Units to the Middle East region since the first Gulf War in 1990,” Ms Scott said.
“HMAS Newcastle will provide maritime security in the Indian Ocean, operating as part of the Combined Maritime Force to counter terrorism and narcotics trades from the Gulf of Aden to the Arabian Gulf.
“The work of our service men and women would not be possible without the continued support of their families back home in Australia.
“For many families and friends, today will be a difficult day. Together, we are already looking forward to Newcastle’s safe return in six months time.”
HMAS Newcastle will relieve HMAS Success, which has been on operations since shortly before Christmas.
Operation MANITOU is Australia's contribution to international maritime security efforts in the Middle East Region, which includes counter terrorism, counter piracy and narcotics interdiction. It aims to improve overall stability in the region, covering the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Media contacts:
Jessica Aquilina (Ms Scott’s Office) 0437 743 182
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999