Warship off limits to public
THE visiting USS Essex will not be open to the public during its week-long stay in Cairns, but selected community groups will get the chance to enjoy a guided tour.
An Australian navy spokesman yesterday confirmed an open day would not be held, but said the Essex had offered guided tours to about 500 people on Thursday and Friday.
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The navy spokesman said he was contacting community organisations, including the chamber of commerce, RSL, the Naval Association, Cairns Regional Council, Cairns Ports and the hospital foundation to extend the invitation.
"There is not going to be an open day, it is not open to the public," he said.
"They have offered to escort some groups through and HMAS Cairns is co-ordinating names to give the ship because they need them in advance.
"We have extended their invitation to a number of community organisations and needless to say the response has been overwhelming."
The spokesman said the offer of guided tours on board the Essex was "really generous" considering open days on American warships had become a thing of the past since the September 11 terror attacks.
"The fact they are offering group tours is really very much appreciated," he said.
"Obviously it is not an opportunity everyone will get but we are trying to co-ordinate it so we get a good cross section of the community."
USS Essex and USS Tortuga will remain docked at Cairns until Monday.
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Northern exposure:USS Essex docked at Trinity Wharf. Picture: GREAT BARRIER REEF HELICOPTER GROUP
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