By Jack Lapauve Jr – EMTV News, Port Moresby
The Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Success is currently in Rabaul, East New Britain, as part of the Indo Pacific Endeavour 2018 (IPE18) – Australia’s major annual maritime activity in the region.
In Rabaul, personnel visited schools and health facilities, to carry out repairs, maintenance work, and provide medical support to local communities.
The deployment is to promote security and stability in the region, through engagement, training and capacity building.
The Commanding Officer of HMAS Success, Commander Grant Zilko noted the significance of the visit to Rabaul: “HMAS Success is delighted to represent the Indo-Pacific Endeavour Task Group in Papua New Guinea.”
“Over the coming days, we look forward to working alongside communities in Rabaul, to carry out repair and maintenance work, and general improvements, at key education and health facilities,” Commander Zilko said.
The arrival of HMAS Success in Rabaul makes Papua New Guinea the only country in the world, to receive consecutive visits under the Indo Pacific Endeavour.
HMAS Adelaide stopped over in Port Moresby last year as part of IPE17
“The Papua New Guinea Australia Defence Cooperation is one of our largest globally. This reflects the broader PNG Australia Partnership for growth, development, stability, and security,” Ms. Wilson said.
