An earthquake hit the west coast of Sumatra, (which had been recently devastated by a Tsunami in December 2004). Operation Sumatra Assist II was launched, and HMAS KANIMBLA, (CMDR G. A. McGuire, RAN), which had taken part in the first assistance operation, was diverted to Nias Island to provide support. KANIMBLA had been on her way back to Australia and was alongside in Singapore when directed to return to Sumatra.