HMAS Stalwart and her crew were honoured to serve as flagship for the 188th Royal Hobart Regatta from February 7 to 9.
First held in 1838, the three-day event is not only Tasmania's oldest organised sporting event but also one of Australia's oldest public holidays.
Events include a variety of water-based sports, including swimming, sailing, rowing and windsurfing, alongside a carnival with rides, live music, fireworks and an aerial display by the Air Force Roulettes.
In recent years, Navy has supported the regatta by providing a vessel to serve as flagship.
During the port visit, Stalwart invited the public on board for an open day with more than 650 people touring the ship and gaining a unique insight into the lives and careers of her crew.
Commanding Officer Stalwart Commander Ash Payne described Hobart as one of the best port visits in Australia and spoke appreciatively of the warm welcome afforded to the crew by local residents.
"Tasmania has a long and proud military history and we enjoyed engaging with the local community at this year's regatta," Commander Payne said.
"Our officers and sailors were excited to be part of this event and to demonstrate our connection with the people of Hobart."
Three of Stalwart's crew bravely threw themselves into the spirit of the regatta by volunteering to participate in the Trans-Derwent Swim, a 1.5-kilometre open water race.
'Our officers and sailors were excited to be part of this event and to demonstrate our connection with the people of Hobart.'
Sub-Lieutenant Lewis Kay, Able Seaman Ashlin Traeger and Able Seaman Chelsea Delaney were ferried across to Montagu Bay on the eastern shore early in the morning, where they and the other competitors entered the 18-degree water and began the swim back across the Derwent to the regatta grounds.
Stalwart sailors carried the day, with Able Seaman Delaney receiving a gold medal and Able Seaman Traeger receiving a bronze in the women's seniors (18-34) category.
As the day progressed, the weather took a turn for the worse; however, the Roulettes were not put off by a little drizzle and performed an impressive display of close formation flying along the River Derwent.
Stalwart had the best seat in the house as she sat anchored in position of honour off Regatta Point.
The ADF has a long tradition of support for the Royal Hobart Regatta, with participation from Navy, Army and Air Force demonstrating the deep connection and ongoing commitment to the people of Tasmania.
