HMAS Townsville II Honored at New Museum Home

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The decommissioned Royal Australian Navy patrol boat HMAS Townsville II has been permanently relocated to the Townsville Maritime Museum, celebrating its 26-year legacy.

On July 26, 2025, the former Royal Australian Navy (RAN) patrol boat HMAS Townsville II completed its final voyage up Ross Creek, securing a permanent berth at the Townsville Maritime Museum, as reported by Defence Australia. This Fremantle-class patrol boat, commissioned in 1981 and decommissioned in 2007, is one of only two surviving vessels of its kind, making its preservation a significant milestone for naval heritage. The move, a collaboration between the Port of Townsville and the museum, drew locals and veterans who celebrated the vessel’s storied service, according to Mirage News.

HMAS Townsville II, built by North Queensland Engineers and Agents (NQEA) in Cairns, patrolled Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for 26 years, safeguarding fisheries, borders, and maritime security. With a range of 2,360 nautical miles and a top speed of nearly 30 knots, it was equipped with a 40/60 Bofors gun and advanced navigation systems, per the Royal Australian Navy’s website. The vessel gained fame through its role in the television series Patrol Boat, portraying the fictional HMAS Defiance, fostering a lasting connection with the public, as noted by CONTACT magazine.

The relocation to Ross Street’s old Curtain Brothers slipway followed hull refurbishment in Cairns during 2015–2016, ensuring structural integrity, according to Defence Connect. Port of Townsville Chief Executive Officer Ranee Crosby described the move as a “significant undertaking,” with the vessel towed under escort to its new display site, enhancing public access along the Ross Creek waterfront, per Baird Maritime. Commanding Officer of HMAS Cairns, Commander Andrew Thorpe, called it a “proud moment” for the Navy and Townsville, emphasizing the boat’s legacy, as quoted by Mirage News.

Despite earlier delays due to funding and approval issues, as reported on Reddit in 2024, the vessel’s new home ensures its preservation for future generations. The museum plans to maintain it in sailable condition for potential training use by cadets and emergency services, per Wikipedia. HMAS Townsville II stands as a testament to the RAN’s dedication to national security and community pride.