The HMAS Wollongong steamed into Mackay today (January 16) to restock and refuel as the coastal patrol surveillance vessel heads south to attend Australia Day celebrations in Wollongong, New South Wales.

Lieutenant Commander Steve Thompson is at the helm of the HMAS Wollongong.

The Wollongong has just completed a two-month stint in northern Australia and the Solomon Islands.

Lieutenant Commander Steve Thompson – a 30 year Navy veteran -- said his crew was looking forward to a little R and R in Mackay.

“We’ve had a pretty good trip from Darwin, but I hear there’s a southerly buster coming so we are expecting a rough time of it down the coast,” he said.

The Wollongong is a Fremantle Class Ship and as a patrol vessel, keeps watch for illegal fishing activities and immigration breaches in northern waters.

The Mackay City Council is hosting a special reception for the crew at the Mackay Yacht Club.

The Wollongong will continue on its journey south on Monday (January 19).

Lieutenant MPA Operations manager John Kraft (right) presents a plaque to Captain Steve Thompson to mark the visit to Mackay of the HMAS Wollongong.