In a display of athleticism and mateship, the Samoan Police Service proved too strong for the crew of HMAS Choules in a series of touch football and volleyball matches in July.
The friendly competition in the Samoan capital, Apia, celebrated the shared sport-loving tradition between the two nations.
The Samoan Police team took on the joint Navy-Army team in a hotly contested game of touch footy, with the scores locked 5-5 at half time.
The speed and tenacity of the local police service, combined with their home-ground advantage and comfort in the searing heat and tropical humidity, proved decisive, edging out the Aussies 11-10.
Australian Army Sergeant Georgia Smart, of Choules, said it was an amazing opportunity to play footy against Australia's Samoan friends.
"It was a lot of fun. The Samoans were fast, well-versed across the field," Sergeant Smart said.
"You could definitely feel the passion and camaraderie out there."
Looking to restore national pride, the Choules volleyball team started strong, winning the first match in a convincing 15-6 victory.
The Samoans came back strong in game two, and clinched the three-game series with 15-13, 15-8 wins.
Wrapping up the event, Commanding Officer Choules Commander Arron Convery thanked Samoan Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo for his nation's generosity while the ship was in port, presenting a plaque on behalf of the crew.
Choules visited Samoa during a south-west Pacific regional presence deployment in June and July, as part of Australia's ongoing engagement with Australia's Pacific partners.
