Aboard HMAS Adelaide for Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2022 (IPE22), Australian Border Force Marine Unit veteran Inspector Damon Bailey is now half a world away from the waters he usually patrols.
As Australia looks for whole-of-government responses to civil maritime security issues, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers such as Inspector Bailey are now working with the ADF and regional partners more often.
Inspector Bailey, Commanding Officer of the Cape-class cutter Cape York, is the first ABF officer to participate in an Indo-Pacific Endeavour, the ADF's premier regional engagement activity.
"Being involved in IPE22 demonstrates that the ABF is committed to ensuring stability in our region by strengthening ties with our neighbours," Inspector Bailey said.
"Having a representative from the Marine Unit on IPE22 allows the ABF to share ideas, techniques and procedures with key partners like the Indian Coast Guard."
As HMA Ships Adelaide and Anzac near India, Inspector Bailey can see the benefit of whole-of-government engagement in IPE.
"The crew aboard Adelaide have been very generous in welcoming me onto the ship and ensuring I'm supported through a range of activities," he said.
"We already engage with the ADF during our usual civil maritime security operations, so it's great to be able to continue that engagement abroad.
"I hope the ABF's involvement in IPE only continues to grow into the future."
Inspector Bailey will disembark Adelaide in India to continue his engagement with the Indian Coast Guard and embedded ABF officers, before returning to Australia.
IPE22 will continue engaging with Australia's regional partners before returning to Australia in time for Christmas.
