Recently, the streets of Apia, Samoa’s capital, were filled with music from a combined band of uniformed Australians, Fijians, and Samoans during the visit of HMAS Choules.
An 81-member massed band, including the Royal Australian Navy Band, Republic of Fiji Navy Band, and the Royal Samoa Police Band, marched through the city on the ship’s first day in port.
This march is part of a daily tradition where local police officers walk from their headquarters to Government House to raise the Samoan national flag.
Lieutenant Commander Brian O’Kane, in charge of the Royal Australian Navy Band, highlighted the uniqueness of having an 81-piece band for the ceremony.
“It’s not common to see a band of this size for the ceremony,” Lieutenant Commander O’Kane said. “I was proud to be part of it, especially with all the bands playing the iconic Australian tune Waltzing Matilda.”
Deputy Police Commissioner Papāli’i Monalisa Tia’i–Keti described the event as a symbol of service to Samoa and a source of national pride.
“Today, everyone found it very exciting,” she said. “We had the chance to walk alongside others who serve the people and the region just as we do. It showcases our dedication to our country and the flag of Samoa, reminding our young officers of their purpose in the organization.”
The march was one of several community engagement activities conducted by the ship during its visit to Samoa as part of a regional deployment in the southwest Pacific.
