I was asked a question in Parliament today about the status of HMAS Jervis Bay.
The catamaran was leased by the Royal Australian Navy specifically to provide sealift capability for two years for the Australian Defence forces and made possible deployment to East Timor in support of the INTERFET operation - a role which HMAS Jervis Bay filled in exemplary fashion.
The lease of the catamaran was necessary to fill a gap in capability because the amphibious lift ships HMAS Kanimbla and HMAS Manoora were still being repaired some five years after their purchase from the United States by the Opposition (then Government) at a total cost of more than $400 million dollars.
Both ships have now been accepted into service.
Whilst HMAS Jervis Bay has been in service the Royal Australian Navy has gathered important data on the usefulness of this type of vessel.
The lease for the catamaran expires on May 16 this year.
The manufacturers of the catamaran, Tasmanian based International Catamarans (INCAT), are seeking overseas buyers for this type of vessel.
INCAT is discussing with Navy the possibility of Navy retaining the vessel for some further months to allow it to be showcased still painted in Navy colours.
I am supportive of Australian defence industries like INCAT and have asked Navy to assist the company if possible.
