On Tuesday, 23 September 2025, the Chief of Staff (COS) of the Royal Australian Navy Headquarters, Commodore Eric Young, visited the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Joint Taskforce Command (JTFC) at Blackrock Camp.

Accompanying him were Captain (Navy) Ledua Yaco—Chief of Navy Liaison Officer to the SouthwestPacific (RFMF Officer embedded in the Australian Defense Forces)—and Warrant Officer Class One Stuart Winkler—SO3 Navy International Engagement, Pacific Neighbors.

The purpose of the visit was to gain a deeper understanding of JTFC’s role, as well as its capabilities and capacities in supporting both national and regional security efforts.

Upon arrival, Commodore Young was received by JTFC COS, Lieutenant Colonel Asaeli Toanikeve, and accorded a quarter guard before being welcomed through a traditional ceremony. He was later briefed in the JTFC conference room by Acting Commanding Officer and J5–Plans Officer, Major Inoke Mateiviti.

The visit concluded with a tour of key JTFC facilities, including the United Nations School, the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Warehouse, and the Level 1 Hospital.

Commodore Young expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome and the honours accorded to him, noting his anticipation for strengthened collaboration between JTFC and HQ RFMF moving forward.