Royal Australian Navy hydrographic survey ship HMAS Leeuwin welcomed staff and students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) during its recent visit to Lae, giving future surveyors and maritime professionals a chance to learn about hydrographic surveying and maritime safety.
The visit was part of HMAS Leeuwin's hydrographic survey mission in Papua New Guinea from 13 July to 16 August 2026. The mission is collecting data to help update nautical charts and improve safe navigation in PNG waters, while also providing training and mentoring to members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.
Students from PNGUoT's School of Surveying and Land Studies toured the ship and saw the specialised equipment used to map the seafloor and collect important maritime data. Students and staff also met Royal Australian Navy personnel and learned how hydrographic surveying supports safe maritime operations.
Australia's Consul-General in Lae, Mr Brenton Kanowski, said the visit gave students an opportunity to see how their studies are applied in practice.
"It was great to connect PNG's future surveyors and geospatial professionals with our Australian Navy hydrographers. Experiences like this help build skills, professional networks and importantly, will support Papua New Guinea's future maritime capability", Mr Kanowski said.
Associate Professor Richard Stanaway, Head of Surveying at PNGUoT, said the visit was a valuable learning experience.
"Our students were able to see real hydrographic surveying operations and learn directly from experienced professionals," Dr Stanaway said.
"We thank the Royal Australian Navy for sharing their knowledge and inspiring the next generation of surveyors and geospatial specialists in Papua New Guinea."
The visit also highlighted the strong cooperation between Australia and Papua New Guinea in hydrographic surveying. HMAS Leeuwin is conducting joint survey activities with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, continuing long-standing efforts to improve maritime mapping and navigation safety across PNG waters.
This activity is an example of the PNG-Australia Alliance in action, strengthening defence cooperation, building local capability, and supporting safer navigation across Papua New Guinea's waters through shared expertise and practical collaboration.
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HMAS Leeuwin personnel with staff and students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology during a ship tour of HMAS Leeuwin alongside Lae, Papua New Guinea.
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