Collection: HMAS Cairns

Commissioned in February 1974 and located in Cairns, Queensland, HMAS Cairns serves as the principal support and home base for the Navy’s northern and far northern operations. Established as a naval base in World War II, HMAS Cairns now hosts patrol boats, hydrographic survey ships, and other vessels operating in Northern Australia and the Pacific. Facilities include engineering workshops, logistics, administration, and berthing, reflecting its importance in supporting fleet operations across the region. The base plays a pivotal role in contemporary border protection, regional partnership missions, and disaster relief support. HMAS Cairns is earmarked for expansion under the RAN’s current infrastructure program, ensuring its continued significance as a hub for Australian maritime operations in tropical waters.