After a slow trip back from Australia and a short period alongside it was time for the official handover of VOEA SAVEA. The boys worked around the clock to get the boat all ship shape for the ceremony, the Australian High Commissioner Mr Thomas Routh was our rep handing over to the TDS Brigadier Uta Atu. It was a quick afternoon ceremony with it only becoming officially on earlier that morning.
The AHC during his speech.
VOEA SAVEA crew fallen in at the start of the ceremony.
It was all smiles with us as we had finally completed all three Life Extension Program's after three years on the go.
The XO (Lt Fonokalafi) at the front of the guard.
Dignitaries including the new prime minister and other nations High Commissioners.
The official signing over of the vessel.
The CO (Lt Lakai) giving his emotional speech after a trying LEP and 2 months of delays.
The boys finally get the order to March on the guard.
Dress ship (ceremonial flags flying from forecastle to stern) as the crew cheer VOEA SAVEA back into commission.
The ceremonial life ring which was a labour of love for the crew, as they refurbished one of the original rings.
Lyndon's room he slept here on this couch for the 2 week trip home, looks a little tidier now.
After the ceremony we had a chance to show off our spoils to the girls and Mal.
The AHC, Tongan Prime minister and the TDS Brigadier.
The boys waiting for Kava O'clock.
This would be one of the only times Lyndon will enter the engine room in whites. It was freshly cleaned and painted just for the handover.
If you recall the steering gear photos from previous entries she is looking considerably emptier this time around.
DCP TONGA all smiles (Minus Sam they shot off to Eua for the weekend)
All three boats back in the Touliki Base basin (VOEA NEIAFU 201, VOEA PANGAI 202 and VOEA SAVEA 203).
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