What’s happening?
HMAS Brisbane has arrived at Fisherman’s Island, Patrick’s Wharf 8, at the Port of Brisbane, setting up a busy few days for the Royal Australian Navy and the local community.
The visit includes a Freedom of Entry parade through the Brisbane CBD on Friday morning, 29 May 2026, followed by a Navy Open Day at Fisherman’s Island on Sunday, 31 May 2026 (registration is required here).
Why it matters
HMAS Brisbane’s arrival gives locals a rare chance to connect with the Royal Australian Navy up close.
The visit also brings one of the Navy’s long-held traditions into the city centre. Freedom of Entry is built on trust between a military unit and the community it serves. It is not just ceremonial. It reflects a formal bond between the Navy and the city.
For families, Sunday’s Open Day adds another layer to the visit, with Navy life, Defence displays and community activities on show at the port.
By the numbers
- Six hours of public activity are listed for Navy Open Day, with sessions running from 9am to 3pm.
- 15 minutes early is the required arrival time before each booked session, allowing time for the coach transfer.
- A4 size is the visitor bag limit, with larger bags not allowed on the wharf or ship.
Local impact
The visit places Brisbane at the centre of a major public Navy program this week, with Friday’s parade moving through one of the city’s busiest civic areas.
The parade begins at 9 am from Creek Street, then moves along Adelaide Street before finishing at King George Square, City Hall.
Before the parade enters King George Square, the Queensland Police Service will issue a traditional challenge.
The ceremony is open to the public.
Zoom in
Freedom of Entry is a historic honour dating back to medieval times, when walled cities controlled who could enter their gates.
Armed troops were only allowed in if the city trusted them, making the right to enter a rare sign of respect.
Today, the ceremony symbolises the strong bond between a military unit and a community.
The unit is formally granted Freedom of Entry by the Mayor, then marches through the city with colours flying, drums beating and band playing.
At one point, the police issue a ceremonial challenge before inspecting the scroll and allowing the parade to continue.
Navy Open Day will offer a more relaxed public setting after the city parade.
The event listing shows doors opening at 8.45 am, with public sessions.
Public Sessions are scheduled across the day:
- 9 am
- 10 am
- 11 am
- 12 pm
- 1 pm
- 2 pm
Zoom out
Navy Open Day will offer a more relaxed public setting after the city parade.
HMAS Moreton is hosting HMAS Brisbane alongside as part of Navy 125.
The event at Fisherman’s Island will include family activities, Defence attractions, partner stalls, a sausage sizzle and face painting.
The Royal Australian Navy Band Queensland will also perform throughout the event.
Guests must select a session and arrive 15 minutes before their chosen time to allow for the coach transfer from the carpark to the wharf.
Children under 18 must attend with a parent or legal guardian. All attendees must wear enclosed footwear.
Bag checks will be carried out before guests board the coach and again on the wharf. Bags larger than A4 size will not be allowed on the wharf or ship.
Video and photography will not be allowed inside the ship.
What to look for next
HMAS Brisbane’s visit may encourage stronger public interest in future Navy events across the city.
With the Freedom of Entry parade bringing naval tradition into the CBD, and Navy Open Day opening the port to families, the week gives locals a rare chance to connect with the Royal Australian Navy.
