International Fleet Review in Jervis Bay
This information first appeared in Shoalhaven Tourism Board – May 2013 news email.
The International Fleet Review (IFR) is being held to commemorate the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet into Sydney.
The IFR is a high profile international event and Navy’s signature commemorative event for 2013. Planned in partnership with the NSW State Government and the City of Sydney, it is anticipated that approximately 40 visiting warships and 12 tall ships will participate in this historic event. The event will culminate in the warships entering Sydney Harbour on Friday 4th October – exactly 100 years after the first RAN Fleet entry.
The Fleet will rendezvous in Jervis Bay, NSW by 2 October 2013 and conduct a final preparation and briefings. It is expected that 30-35 ships will enter Jervis Bay on 1 October and depart on the 3 October heading to Sydney to all enter on 4 October.
This will be the largest congregation of warships off Eastern Australia and in Jervis Bay.
The Fleet’s arrival to Jervis Bay provides an opportunity to increase visitation through day visitors, overnight visitors and extension of stay. There is also an additional opportunity through development of specific activities, such as tours and community events. This is a great opportunity for tourism operators in the Jervis Bay area to gain additional revenue and exposure to a wide market.
To assist with creating additional opportunities for local tourism operators it is proposed that a Fireworks display be held at Voyager Park, Huskisson to welcome the Fleet on Wednesday 2 October and provide a focal point for visitors in and around the main CBD of Huskisson. Plans are also underway for guides to be provided to local tour operators with information on the visiting Fleet. For further emails or contact me directly, email harnwellb@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au or 4429 3248
In 1988 the First Fleet Re-enactment also met in the Jervis Bay prior to heading into Sydney Harbour. This event drew an estimated crowd of 100,000 to the shores of Jervis Bay to witness the fleet pre their entry to Sydney Harbour. Pleasure craft and commercial tour operators where used to view the Fleet while anchored and met the fleet as they entered the heads.
The IFR is being held during the October School Holidays period prior to the long weekend therefore it is anticipated that this historic event will attract large numbers. The October School holidays are a peak period and the additional visitation from this event will impact on the local area. An Event Plan is being developed to ensure that visitor needs and expectations are catered for.
To avoid disappointment, we urge you to plan and book your holiday accommodation early. OzeHols offer you a variety of South Coast accommodation as well as Jervis Bay accommodation including Jervis Bay Caravan Park, Mollymook accommodation including Mollymook holiday houses and Mollymook Caravan Park, Huskisson holiday rentals and more holiday rentals in the Shoalhaven region.
Breeze in Mollymook Beach, a holiday home in Mollymook. The home is child friendly, family friendly and a short walk to beautiful Mollymook Beach. Whether you like to swim, surf, go fishing, bush walk or play golf in one of the golf courses, Breeze in Mollymook is your place to stay. The home is a short distance to Rick Stein's Bannisters. While staying here you can also visit the cafes and shops in Milton and Ulladulla as well as visit the beaches in Narrawallee.
