HMAS YARRA TO PARTICIPATE IN BARGARA’S ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE

A few months ago I submitted a request through the office of Keith Pitt MP, Member for Hinkler on behalf of the Bargara Remembers Committee seeking the participation of a naval vessel in this year’s Bargara ANZAC Day Dawn Service.

I’m pleased to advise that I’ve now received a message from Lieutenant Commander Jason McBain RAN, Commander of Mine Hunter HMAS Yarra advising that the Minister for Defence has authorised the deployment of his vessel and compliment of close to 50 crew members which are likely to arrive in Port Bundaberg on Saturday 23rd April. 

Whilst details are yet to be confirmed, it’s anticipated that the vessel may be the subject of an Open Day to be held over that weekend where members of the public can go aboard to inspect her.

On the evening of Sunday 24th April she will sail from the port to anchor off the Bargara coastline ready for the 5.30am start of the Service on ANZAC morning.

I’ll be attempting to organise a radio hook-up from the Yarra through the PA System so that LCDR McBain can deliver a message to the crowd similar to the broadcast from the pilot of the Mustang which has also been confirmed.

After the Bargara Service, the Yarra will return to the Port so that a contingent of crew can attend and march in the Bundaberg City Civic Service.

To have a navy vessel specifically deployed to join us for our 20th Anniversary is a real honour and I’d like to acknowledge the tremendous support that Keith Pitt and his staff have given to bring this request to fruition. Our committee and I’m sure the community in general, is extremely grateful.

Here are some stats on HMAS Yarra….