Fed: HMAS Toowoomba departs for Middle East
09 Jun 2009 6:06 PM
CANBERRA, June 9 AAP - HMAS Toowoomba has set sail for a six-month tour of duty in the Middle East.
The ship's 193 men and women were farewelled in a traditional ceremony at Fleet Base West at Garden Island, Western Australia on Tuesday.
Immigration and Citizenship Minister Chris Evans said the Toowoomba was embarking on a difficult mission.
"To the families and friends of the personnel deploying I would like to thank you for your continued support, and wish those deployed on Operation Slipper continued success and ongoing safety," he said.
Operation Slipper is part of Australia's contribution to the international coalition against terrorism.
HMAS Toowoomba will replace HMAS Warramunga, which is due to return to Fleet Base West in mid-2009.
