PNGUoT Students Gain First-Hand Experience in Hydrographic Surveying Aboard HMAS Leeuwin
Staff and students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) gained valuable first-hand experience in hydrographic surveying during a recent visit to Royal Australian Navy hydrographic survey ship HMAS Leeuwin in Lae.
The visit provided students from PNGUoT’s School of Surveying and Land Studies with an opportunity to see how the principles and techniques they study in the classroom are applied in real-world hydrographic surveying operations.
HMAS Leeuwin is in Papua New Guinea from 13 July to 16 August 2026 as part of a hydrographic survey mission to collect data that will contribute to updating nautical charts and improving safe navigation in PNG waters. The mission also includes training and mentoring with members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.
During the visit, PNGUoT staff and students toured the vessel, observed specialised hydrographic surveying equipment and engaged with Royal Australian Navy personnel involved in maritime surveying and navigation safety.
Head of Surveying at PNGUoT, Associate Professor Richard Stanaway, said the visit was particularly valuable because hydrographic surveying is an important part of the training undertaken by students and staff in the School of Surveying and Land Studies.
“All of the staff and students have studied or taught hydrographic surveying, so this was an amazing experience for them,” Dr Stanaway said.
He said the opportunity allowed students to connect their academic knowledge with professional practice and gain a deeper understanding of the technology and expertise required for modern hydrographic surveying.
The visit also provided an opportunity for PNGUoT to strengthen professional connections with Australian hydrographic surveying specialists and further expose students to career pathways within the maritime and geospatial sectors.
The activity reflects the strong cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia in hydrographic surveying and maritime safety. HMAS Leeuwin is undertaking joint survey activities with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime mapping and navigation safety across PNG waters.
Australia’s Consul-General in Lae, Mr Brenton Kanowski, said the visit provided an important opportunity for PNG’s future surveyors and geospatial professionals to connect with Australian Navy hydrographers.
“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.
For PNGUoT, the visit highlighted the importance of combining classroom learning with practical exposure and industry engagement in preparing graduates for the professional demands of surveying and geospatial practice.