The Marine Vessel Aoke 04 with its 13 member crew arrived today at the RSIP Maritime Aola base from Cairns, Australia after its 4 days trip home.
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Marine Vessel Aoke 04 had left for Australia November last year for a three months stay abroad.Speaking with the Acting Director of the Maritime, Charles Fox Sau, said that the cost of the maintenance bi-annual refit for the vessel Aoke had cost more than AUD900, 000.
Sergeant Sau said that maintenance done to the ship include overhauling, painting infrastructure, engine repairs and the navigational equipments.
He adds that the refit program of the vessel is a joint program between the Solomon Islands Government and the Australian Government through the Defense Cooperation Program.
Solomon Times was informed that the program of the maintenance bi annual refit will be on an annual basis after two years and a life extension for the vessel will be next year.
Traveling home, despite cyclone warnings in the Solomons, did not deter their journey home.
Meanwhile, Refit Manager, Russell Tagini, has thanked SIG for standing tall beside them on their traveling for the refit.
"With lack of resources on our side, we are trying our best and committed in looking after ourselves and our vessel," he highlighted.