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Exercise Kakadu Fleet Review

Published on: March 2026

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-163588

Exercise Kakadu Fleet Review

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore)

—I recognise the remarkable success of the Exercise Kakadu Fleet Review held in Sydney Harbour over the weekend, which celebrated 125 years since the foundation of Australia's Navy. Exercise Kakadu, held biennially, continues to demonstrate Australia's leadership in fostering strong regional partnerships and naval capability. This was the largest gathering of international warships on Sydney Harbour for over a decade, making this event as one for the history books. From dawn to dusk, thirty ships from nineteen countries stood together in a powerful display of cooperation, unity, and naval tradition. I had the privilege of attending the Ceremonial Colours ceremony on Saturday and witnessed firsthand the scale and significance of this event. This ceremony involved members of the Royal Australian Navy Band and a Guard, culminating with the Fleet review sailing past Bradleys Head. It was also wonderful to watch a combined Navy and Royal Australian Air Force aerial display, as well as a ceremonial gun salute. I commend all personnel involved, particularly Commodore Ben Favelle and Lieutenant Commander Rachel Entwistle, for their contributions, along with Commanding Officer of HMAS Penguin, Commander Ian Walker, in delivering such a spectacular and meaningful occasion for our nation.