June 24 marks 100 days to go until the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) commemorates the arrival of its first fleet 100 years ago with a spectacular International Fleet Review in Sydneyfrom 3-11 October 2013.
Ships from more 20 nations comprising around 40 warships and 17 tall ships, plus 8000 naval personnel will help celebrate Navy’s historic event, which is being staged in partnership with the NSW State Government and City of Sydney Council.
More than 20 nations have confirmed participation by either a warship or tall ship. They include: Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Colombia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Micronesia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
“Today is a significant day as it marks 100 days to the International Fleet Review Sydney 2013, an event which will not only celebrate Navy’s centenary in Sydney, but the largest commemorative event the Royal Australian Navy has ever undertaken,” Director of the International Fleet Review Captain Nick Bramwell said.
The International Fleet Review will commence with the 17 tall ships entering Sydney Harbour on Thursday, October 3, at 11am, followed by a combined fleet entry of more than 25 warships on Friday, October 4, from 6am to 6pm.
Saturday, October 5, will mark the actual Ceremonial Fleet Review by Her Excellency the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, embarked in HMAS Leeuwin between 11.00am-2.30pm.
Military and historic aircraft will also feature prominently during the Review, with more than 30 RAN and visiting navy helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft taking part.
Saturday, October 5, will conclude with a spectacular 30-minute International Fleet Review Pyrotechnics and Lightshow Spectacular from 7.30pm.
Details of activities and timings for the International Fleet Review can be found HERE.