We look forward to welcoming the crew of HMAS Huon on Saturday 4 May 2024 as they are granted “Freedom of Entry” into the Huon Valley.

The Freedom of Entry tradition dates back to medieval times and has been upheld by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) through its British heritage, allowing the ship and its crew to be officially welcomed and honoured by their namesake region, town, or city.

The HMAS Huon ship will unfortunately not be visiting Tasmania for this event.

Street Parade

The Freedom of Entry march, consisting of the ship’s crew and Navy band, will commence at 10:30am from the Cenotaph in Heron Street, Huonville and proceed down Main Street towards the Huonville Town Hall. A representative of Tasmania Police will meet the procession near the Huonville War Memorial building, where they will issue a challenge. The crew’s Commanding Officer will, in response, present the official scroll issued by Mayor Sally Doyle granting Freedom of Entry into the town. The march will continue down Main Street, finishing at the Town Hall.

Meet the crew

Please join us in welcoming the crew of HMAS Huon by lining Huonville’s Main Street and showing your support and appreciation. All local businesses and community members are welcome!

After the parade, you’re invited to meet the crew of HMAS Huon in the Huonville Town Hall, from 11.15am to 12.15pm.

Civic Reception

If you would like to attend the civic reception later in the day, please phone 6264 0300 or email hvc@huonvalley.tas.gov.au
Numbers are limited, so please RSVP by Monday 29 April 2024.

Traffic affected

Huonville’s Main Street between Heron Road and the traffic circle (including Sale Street to Skinner Drive) will be closed to traffic for approximately 30 minutes between 10:30am and 11am.

Traffic will be diverted during this time and we will be taking all the necessary measures to ensure minimal disruption and inconvenience.

Gallery of images of the HMAS Huon:

For further information, please contact Huon Valley Council’s Community Engagement Officer, Lisa Plohl: 6264 0343 or hvc@huonvalley.tas.gov.au