THE flagship of the Royal Australian Navy, HMAS Canberra, has made a call in Cairns.
The 230metre vessel is one of the newest of the fleet, commissioned in 2014 and arrived carrying about 1000 crew and soldiers.
It is to remain at Cairns until Tuesday 9 July.
“She made quite a spectacular entry,” Ports North chairman Russell Beer said.
“Not only is she a decent length but her height is very commanding.”
Mr Beer said HMAS Canberra’s visit was only confirmed on Wednesday, after ports further south were unable to accommodate her.
“This is a real coup for the Port of Cairns,” he said.
“We have the flexibility and the capacity to welcome her on such short notice – not to mention having the beautiful natural surroundings and vibrant city which will prove perfect for crew and soldiers looking for some respite.”
The ship is to be taking on one million litres of fuel during its stay as well as goods from local provedores.
