HMAS Brisbane returned to her namesake city for a port visit that combined tradition and community engagement as part of the Navy's commemoration of 125 years of service.
The visit began on May 28, when the ship cut a majestic silhouette on a grey autumn morning, making her way through Moreton Bay to the Port of Brisbane.
For many of the ship's company, the arrival was a proud and special moment - none more so than for Lieutenant Stevie Barrie, who began her Navy journey in Brisbane more than two decades ago.
"Coming back to Brisbane on board Brisbane is a full‑circle moment for me," Lieutenant Barrie said.
"I joined the Navy here as a 17‑year‑old, and to return 23 years later, older, wiser, and able to share this with my family, is something I never imagined when I started."
As one of Navy's Hobart-class guided missile destroyers, Brisbane brings advanced sensors, the Aegis combat system and a broad suite of capabilities that enable her to operate with partner navies and contribute to regional security.
Her visit also echoed the legacy of the two previous ships to bear the name Brisbane, both of which served with distinction in earlier generations of the fleet.
On May 29, ship's company exercised its freedom of entry into Brisbane, one of the oldest and most significant ceremonial honours a city can bestow.
Commanding Officer Brisbane Commander David Mason led as the guard of honour, with the Navy ensign unfurled and the Brisbane Buoy carried proudly, as crowds lined the streets to cheer on the officers and sailors.
The ship's company marched through the city centre, accompanied by the Navy Band, before the ceremonial review in King George Square.
'I spent six years on the landing helicopter docks and always hoped for a destroyer posting, so serving in Brisbane is something I'm really proud of, and I can't wait to see my family and friends.'
There, the Lord Mayor of Brisbane Adrian Schrinner delivered a civic address to assembled sailors and the public.
"To see the crew of HMAS Brisbane marching through the streets of this city, the flag flying, swords drawn and drums beating, is truly something special for me and for the city of Brisbane," he said.
"Wherever this ship sails, whether through the Indo‑Pacific, through waters near and far, in exercises or in service, she carries Brisbane with her.
"She carries our identity, our values and our spirit. Perhaps nothing captures that spirit more than the motto of this city, 'Aim at Higher Things'.
"And our city's motto sits proudly on the warship named in Brisbane's honour.
"I know that the people of Brisbane are proud of you. We are proud that you serve in a ship that bears our name."
That evening, Brisbane hosted a formal reception on board, bringing together Defence representatives, community leaders and local stakeholders.
The event featured a ceremonial sunset, offering a moment of reflection on Navy heritage and the service of generations of Australian sailors.
The centrepiece of the visit came on May 31, when the ship's open day exhausted the full allocation of 4500 free admissions, with members of the Brisbane community eager to tour the ship, meet the crew and learn more about life at sea.
Families with young children, veterans who had served on earlier Brisbanes and locals simply curious about Navy life all streamed on board.
Commander Mason said the open day was a highlight for the crew and the community alike.
"It is really exciting to bring HMAS Brisbane to its namesake port," he said.
"When the public come on board they are able to see how some of the sailors live, which is always a point of interest.
"This port visit is all about us being able to give back to the community of Brisbane."
'I joined the Navy here as a 17‑year‑old, and to return 23 years later, older, wiser, and able to share this with my family, is something I never imagined when I started.'
For Able Seaman Cameron Fittkau, the homecoming was professional and deeply personal.
"Returning to Brisbane on board HMAS Brisbane is a really proud moment for me and my family," Able Seaman Fittkau said.
"I've been in the Navy for seven-and-a-half years, but this is my first time alongside my home port outside of COVID."
He reflected on his family's earlier encounter with the ship.
"My parents and brothers visited Brisbane during an open day years ago and were blown away by the ship.
"For them to now see me serving on board makes this visit even more special."
Able Seaman Fittkau also shared how his Navy journey began.
"I originally planned to join the Army like my dad, but after hearing about Navy's future ships and systems, I changed direction," Able Seaman Fittkau said.
"I spent six years on the landing helicopter docks and always hoped for a destroyer posting, so serving in Brisbane is something I'm really proud of, and I can't wait to see my family and friends."
The open day was supported by personnel from HMAS Moreton and the Navy Band Queensland, along with Defence exhibits and community partners.
