After a five-month operational deployment to the North Persian Gulf, HMAS BALLARAT will arrive in Cochin tomorrow for a three-day visit. The visit will provide an opportunity for rest and recreation for its crew after a busy operational deployment.

BALLARAT departed Sydney on 01 March 2006 under the command of Commander Malcolm Wise, OAM, RAN.

BALLARAT has contributed to the multi-national force efforts to assist the Iraqi National Government in developing a secure and stable environment in Iraq. This work included protecting Iraq’s offshore oil export terminals, and monitoring, intercepting and boarding vessels suspected of illegally trafficking oil and other cargo that diverts funds from the Iraqi economy.

Australia remains committed to supporting the rehabilitation of Iraq. HMAS WARRAMUNGA will shortly take over the maritime duties that have been undertaken by HMAS BALLARAT.

HMAS BALLARAT’s visit to Cochin also reflects the ongoing development of Australia’s defence relationship with India – focussed on practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as maritime security, counter-terrorism and peacekeeping.

HMAS BALLARAT is the eighth of the ANZAC Class frigates built for the Royal Australian Navy. BALLARAT is a long-range frigate capable of air-defence, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction. The ship can counter simultaneous threats from aircraft, surface vessels and submarines.