HMAS Cape Woolamai
We returned to sea this week after a restful holiday period, which felt like a fitting moment to share what we have been up to. Throughout the second half of 2025, the ship and crew spent a significant amount of time at sea protecting Australia’s coastline under Operation RESOLUTE. We achieved strong outcomes through a number of successful enforcement actions against illegal activities, and it has been especially rewarding for the crew to see the tangible impact of our work.
Prior to commencing operations, we undertook a four-week readiness assessment period, embarking a Navy standards team to demonstrate our ability to operate safely while conducting the full range of missions expected of us. The assessment was completed in record time, with the crew of HMAS Cape Woolamai achieving the required safety and operational standards in just 15 days, instead of the programmed 20.
Among our operational duties, September marked a significant milestone with the ship’s first international port visit since entering service—a four-day visit to Benoa, on the island of Bali, Indonesia. For some crew members, this was their first trip overseas, and for others it was their first opportunity to travel since the COVID-19 pandemic. We were warmly welcomed by military officials, a band, and Balinese dancers on the wharf. The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with one of our closest regional neighbours, while also allowing the crew to enjoy the experience of international travel.
In November, we entered our final maintenance period for the year, providing an opportunity for the crew to take well-earned leave while the ship underwent scheduled servicing and minor rectification works. During this time, we closely monitored the development of a weather system to our north, which later intensified into Tropical Cyclone Fina. Drawing on lessons learned since Cyclone Tracy in 1974, the Navy maintains strict measures to preserve life and protect ships during severe weather events. With Cyclone Fina forecast to reach Category 4 strength and pass over Darwin, the patrol boat fleet sailed from Darwin Harbour to safer waters. After securing our homes, HMAS Cape Woolamai departed Darwin on 21 November in company with five sister ships, later rendezvousing with other Navy vessels. Using the geography of northern Australia to mitigate the worst of the conditions, we remained at sea until the harbour reopened. Shortly after lunch on 24 November, ten Navy ships returned safely to their berths in Darwin, allowing us to resume maintenance activities.
In early December, the Navy announced its annual awards, with HMAS Cape Woolamai recognised twice—the most of any minor war vessel in 2025. We were awarded the Wormald Shield and named runner-up for the RADM Bayliss Award, competing against all Navy units, including aviation, major warships, minor war vessels, and submarines. The Wormald Shield recognises excellence in combat survivability, while the RADM Bayliss Award acknowledges the highest standard in health support. I am immensely proud of the crew and what we achieved together in 2025, and these honours were a fitting way to conclude our busiest year to date.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for the crew of HMAS Cape Woolamai. We have welcomed several new members and look forward to continuing our service to the Australian people at sea. From 2 February, we will adopt a two-crew model, welcoming an additional 31 crew members who will share in our history and the strong relationships we have built. We are also hopeful to visit the island in July and to participate in the long-standing tradition of a Freedom of Entry march. Further details will be shared once approvals are confirmed.
I am enormously proud of the 2025 crew and excited to continue sharing our experiences at sea while representing Cape Woolamai and Phillip Island.
As always, if you find yourself in Darwin, please feel free to reach out—we would love to welcome you onboard and show you a little of Cape Woolamai in the north. Attached are photos of HMAS Cape Woolamai (P-318) from the second half of 2025
