AIRF RCEVol. 61, No. 20, October 31, 2019 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

Edinburgh Air Show preview Pages 2-3 Tattoo success in Sydney Pages 4-5

DETECT AND DETER

Operation Solania continues maritime

surveillanceCentre

Avionics Technician LAC Andrew Gardner, of No. 35 Squadron, marshals the C-27J Spartan at Palau International Airport, Republic of Palau, during Operation Solania. Photo: GNR Sagi Biderman

2 Edinburgh Air Show preview

EDITORIALDirectorDavid Edlington

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raafnews@defencenews.gov.auThe Editor, Air Force News, R1-GF-C037, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600

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FLTLT Marina Lysenko

VINTAGE warbirds and Air Force’s newest fifth-generation aircraft will go head-to-head in a breathtaking display at the Edinburgh Air Show, November 9-10, at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

In the lead-up to the air show, the people of Adelaide have enjoyed a few special treats with a formation flight by a C-130J Hercules, P-8A Poseidon and two PC-9/A aircraft.

In addition, a four-ship Roulette PC-21 formation performed a low-level fly-past over Adelaide, travelling as low as 80m from the ground. The PC-21 then followed up with an aerobatics display at a height of 300m over RAAF Base Edinburgh.

The aircraft performed manoeu-vres only three metres apart and at 600km/h, all the while executing

twists, turns and trailing smoke – or “smoke on”, as the team might say.

Roulette Seven FLTLT Daniel Armstrong said it was the first time the new PC-21s had performed an aerial display over South Australia.

“The Roulettes have had an intensive program involving months of training on the new aircraft and the development of specific formation aerobatic tech-niques that are tailored for the PC-21,” he said.

“We recently kicked off the PC-21 display session at the birth place of the RAAF, Point Cook, and we’re looking forward to performing at the Edinburgh Air Show.”

Roulette One SQNLDR Jay Tuffley said the aerial display over Adelaide was only a small preview of what the audiences could expect to see at the air show.

“We will be bringing all six aircraft, performing a 15-minute display of low-level formation aerobatics and synchronised high-energy manoeuvres,” SQNLDR Tuffley said.

“During the display the pilots will be experiencing up to 6G and flying at speeds of 600km/h.

“It’s quite a thrill to be flying at a large air show and the new Roulette team members are look-ing forward to showcasing the PC-21 and all it can do.”

The air show will showcase Air Force’s fleet as well as some old favourite warbirds, including the Winjeel, Wirraway, Boomerang, Hudson Bomber, Hurricane, Meteor, Sabre, Catalina, Dakota, Caribou and Spitfire.

For more information on the air show, including flying display details and ticketing information, visit airforce.gov.au/edinburghairshow2019

‘During the display the pilots will be experiencing up to 6G and flying

at speeds of 600km/h ... the

new Roulette team members are

looking forward to showcasing the

PC-21.– SQNLDR Jay Tuffley,

Roulette One

Thrills with a twist … or two

Roulettes fly over Adelaide in their new PC-21 aircraft; and, below right, the view from the cockpit.Photos: SGT Rob Hack

3October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Edinburgh Air Show preview

How rewarding or challenging is it to coordinate a program of this scale?It is a very challenging time organ-ising an air show on this scale. Gathering all these amazing air-craft together takes a huge amount of communicating, coordinating and effort from a large number of people, both military and civilian.

There are some very old aircraft that require careful han-dling, as do the very large ones. Choreographing the display takes a significant amount of planning with many considerations. We aim to give the spectators an interest-ing and varied program and the pilots the opportunity to show what their aircraft can do.

What can people expect to see in the flying displays?We are aiming to present a wide cross-section of flying that has taken place in Australia since the Smith Brothers arrived in Adelaide a century ago after their epic flight from the UK.

There will be displays by gliders, vintage aircraft, training aircraft and warbirds such as the Spitfire, Hurricane, P40 and Mustang. There will be large war-birds such as the Dakota, Catalina, Caribou, Neptune and AP-3C Orion. We will see vintage jet fight-ers such as the Meteor and Sabre performing. All Air Force aircraft will be there – transport aircraft like the C-27J and C-130J and the enormous C-17A.

We will see maritime aircraft combined with a Navy MH60R, air-to-air refuelling and airborne early warning aircraft, and of course fast-jet displays. A nimble Vietnam-era Cessna A37 Dragonfly will give an amazing aerobatic performance.

The F/A-18A/B and the F/A-18F will both give incredible individual

performances throughout the after-noon, but the prize display will be the F-35A Lightning II.

We hope the displays will enthral the spectators and show the very best of flying in this coun-try – past, present and heading into the future.

What are some of the highlights of the program?I would like to think every display is a highlight; we all have different preferences. I love hearing the pis-ton engines in the warbirds roaring during their displays. However, if it is louder noise and higher speed you want to hear and see, you won’t be disappointed.

An amazing cross-section of aircraft is attending. We have grouped aircraft together in themes. The various formations will provide some great photographic opportunities. The vintage aircraft, the trainers and some of the war-birds will be showing the crowds their formation flying skills.

The crowds will be thrilled by the two formation aerobatic teams performing – the Russian Roolettes (a tongue-in-cheek name, but flown by ex-military/airline pilots) and the RAAF Roulettes.

Are there any unique elements? Yes, we have some very old air-craft appearing such as the Moth Minor trainer, the DH Dragon and Tiger Moth. The Hudson light bomber from the Temora Aviation Museum is unique in that it is the only flying example in the world.

The Australian-designed and built aircraft, such as the Wirraway and Boomerang, show what we were able to produce in this country during WWII. A couple of displays show how interoperable our current fleet of aircraft is as we move into the fifth-generation of aviation technology.

Director Air Operations for the Air Force Air Show Team GPCAPT Tim Sloane is the Flying Coordinator for the Edinburgh Air Show. He shares some of his thoughts on the event.

From lasting and proud to fast and loud

Thrills with a twist … or two

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4 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

FLTLT Tritia Evans

THE ADF took centre stage in four shows of the largest ever Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Olympic Stadium in Sydney from October 17-19.

About 277 performers from the combined military bands of the ADF, the Pipes and Drums of the ADF and Australia’s Federation Guard joined a cast compris-ing more than 1520 people from 13 nations, many taking part in the Tattoo for the first time.

In a choreographed three-hour show, audiences enjoyed old favour-ites and new acts set against a back-drop of a huge purpose-built replica of Edinburgh Castle.

Seven south-west Pacific nations joined other cultural performance groups, musical groups, pipes and drums, and military bands from around the world in a huge and col-ourful line-up of traditional Scottish music, military ceremony, theatre and dance from a range of cultures.

In a significant airlift, Air Force transported 286 performers and sup-port staff from seven participating south-west Pacific nations to and from Australia in three C-130J and two C-17A aircraft.

As well as providing air trans-port, the ADF provided invalu-able behind-the-scenes support in Operation Tartan Oceania, stepping up with ground transport, coordina-tion for participating nations and

logistical support during rehearsals and performances.

The Tattoo demonstrated the close connection shared by partici-pating nations, according to BRIG David Allfrey, the producer and chief executive officer of the Tattoo parent organisation.

“This show is particularly spe-cial in that it celebrates Australia and its relationships with neigh-bours in all directions,” he said.

“That includes friendships well established in the past, growing in the present and to be developed in the future.”

When BRIG Phi l Winter, Director General of the Tattoo, welcomed all south-west Pacific participants to Australia at RAAF Base Richmond on October 12, his thoughts turned to the impact the Tattoo experience would have on their lives.

“It’s been particularly poignant for us to see our south-west Pacific friends so happily embrace the Tattoo,” BRIG Winter said.

“For example, the Solomon Islands group – most of whom rare-ly leave their village in the north-ern region of Malaita Province – were transported to the airfield on the back of a flat-bed truck, then loaded onto a military aircraft and flown five and half hours away to Australia.

“Four days later, after just a few rehearsals, they performed their cul-tural dances and music live before

tens of thousands of people and were filmed for a worldwide televi-sion audience estimated to be 100 million.”

BRIG Winter said the Tattoo showed that music, like sport, is a natural fit for the ADF and its regional partners.

“Every ADF cast member and all support staff have been privileged to be involved in this Tattoo,” he said.

“Everyone could see the enthu-siasm and top quality of the ADF’s musical and ceremonial talent. We have much to offer our Pacific part-ners. Hopefully we can all continue to build on this experience.”

Taking part in the Tattoo allowed Australia to promote the important and enduring relationships it holds with each of the participant nations.

Vanuatu Minister for Foreign Affairs Ralph Regenvanu said showcasing Vanuatu’s culture on the world stage was a huge part of his country’s identity and development path.

“We feel we are an important country to Australia and it’s impor-tant that we participate as a mem-ber of the Pacific community in the Tattoo,” he said.

“The Tattoo is a great opportuni-ty for Vanuatu to present its unique culture in an arena where it will be seen by so many people.”

More imagery available at: images.defence.gov.au/assets/archives/5009-Royal-Edinburgh-Military-Tattoo/

Making a mark on the big stage

Members of Australia’s Federation Guard rehearse at Olympic Stadium for the Military Tattoo. Photo: LS Ernesto Sanchez

5October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

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FLTLT Tritia Evans

IN AN unprecedented airlift, Air Force transported performers from more than half the nations involved in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Sydney from October 11-12.

As part of Operation Tartan Oceania, Air Force transported 286 performers and support staff from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu – together with their instruments, cultural items and regalia – to and from Australia in three C-130J Hercules from RAAF Base Richmond and two C-17A Globemasters from RAAF Base Amberley.

It was the first time on an aero-plane, let alone a military aircraft, for many on board.

For planners, based at RAAF Base Richmond, it was like complet-ing a Rubik’s cube in the air, with logistical and cultural challenges plus a prime ministerial visit to Fiji and torrential rain in Vanuatu thrown into the mix.

Air Force plans missions to North America, Europe and the Indo-Pacific region on a regular basis.

However, this was the first time it was asked to execute a mission of this scale, visiting so many nations in such a short space of time.

The Air Mobility Control Centre

The two-day mission as part of Operation Tartan Oceania kept five Air Force aircraft busy:

The three C-130Js flew for 36 hours and more than 11,000 nautical miles.

The two C-17As flew for 22 hours and more than 9200 nautical miles.

Each aircraft had two pilots and two loadmasters. Some aircraft included a mobile air load team to help with cargo and equipment for non-RAAF bases.

LOADED UP

Colour and complexity of a cultural cargo

Cook Island National Arts Theatre performers greet No. 36 Squadron crew at Raratonga before boarding the C-17A

Globemaster bound for Sydney.Inset: The Samoa Culture Group

performers aboard the Globemaster for their lift to Sydney.

Photos: LACW Jacqueline Forrester

arranged routing, cargo load limita-tions, fuel requirements and timing considerations for each platform.

Plans Officer FLGOFF James Kellett said juggling Air Force air-craft with scheduled commercial operations at many of the Pacific nations’ airports was the biggest challenge.

“Many have aprons that are suf-ficient to park two or three aircraft at any one time,” he said.

“This meant we had to balance departure and arrival times to avoid wasting precious crew duty hours of our aircrew.

“Our main aim was to expedite

the arrival of all Tattoo performers and to avoid overnighting wherever possible to reduce travel time. For such large tasks, we made use of a back-up aircraft in case any of the missions had complications due to the unforeseen unserviceabilty of an aircraft.”

The job of getting participants on the C-17As and C-130Js fell to air movements sections at Amberley and Richmond, along with a mobile air load team.

In particular, 22SQN at Richmond facilitated a smooth arrival into Australia for south-west Pacific contingents, as well as Tattoo participants who arrived separately from Indonesia.

Director General of the Tattoo, BRIG Phil Winter, said support from Air Force was integral to Operation Tartan Oceania.

“Without the RAAF airlift, we would not have had the unique per-formances by the traditional cultural groups and military bands from our south-west Pacific partners,” he said.

“Their vibrant and colourful pip-ing, drumming, dancing and singing took the Tattoo in a new direction.

“It showcased their cultures before tens of thousands of specta-tors in Sydney and an estimated worldwide television audience of 100 million. What a great thing for them and what a great achievement for the RAAF.”

Australia’s Federation Guard at ANZ Stadium in Sydney for the

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.Photo: LAC John Solomon

To see footage from the event, visit the Defence video portal: video.defence.gov.au

8X/7X_TwoWays_Australia_261x190_AFN_uk.indd 1 16/10/2019 14:21

6 News

FLTLT Kate Davis

RAAF Base Williamtown per-sonnel have introduced a new ADF wellbeing program to opti-mise physical wellbeing and reduce occupational injury.

Spring into Spring, a joint initiative between the HQAC Human Performance Project (HPP) and No. 26 Squadron physical training instructors, encouraged physical condition-ing tailored to occupational resilience by offering a range of new classes and nutritional advice, as well as the already s u c c e s s f u l S t r e n g t h a n d Conditioning Program.

SNCOIC 26SQN FSGT Kim Fletcher said the 26SQN PTIs were inspired by the opportu-nity to collaborate with the HPP team and develop a fresh pro-gram to draw people’s atten-tion to their physical health and wellness.

“The aim of the program was to educate participants on the methodology and benefits of different types of training, and how this can be supplemented with healthy eating,” FSGT Fletcher said.

Spring into Spring ran from

September 2-13 and included Olympic lifting, running tech-nique training, yoga, nutrition, mobility and foam-rolling class-es, as well as the usual morning and midday strength and condi-tioning classes.

Feedback from participants provided key insights into the preferred types of training and information being sought, with an overwhelming interest in interval and running classes, as well as a female nutrition work-shop. This feedback will be used to develop future programs.

D e p u t y D i r e c t o r H P P WGCDR Carlos Almenara said the program was a huge success, particularly due to the efforts of the PTI team.

“The PTIs’ openness to new and innovative ideas led to a fresh approach to optimising the performance of Air Force per-sonnel while reducing the risk of injury,” WGCDR Almenara said.

“The overall aim of the HPP is to have a strong, fit, resilient Air Force, with less preventable injuries and increased mental wellness, resulting in increased capability to support the future generation of air power.”

SERVING and former Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander personnel are invited to take part in research to increase at-traction, recruitment and retention of Indigenous personnel in Defence. The Australian Human Rights Commission is conducting the research sponsored by the CDF and the Deputy Secre-tary Defence People. The 10-minute survey can be completed online or by contacting the Commission to request a hard copy. Members can also register partici-pation interest in a focus group or interview (one hour). Personal informa-tion will be confidential and de-identified. Visit humanrights.gov.au/indigenous-defence-project Contact defencemob@humanrights.gov.au or 02 9284 9600.

Survey invite

IN BRIEF

Mental wellnessTHE Department of Vet-erans’ Affairs is holding Veterans’ Health Week from October 26 to No-vember 3. It features ex-service and community organisations delivering events around Australia aiming to promote the theme of mental well-ness. DVA developed key words representing actions to build mental

Healthy springs

PTSD trialAN Australian-first research program to improve the treatment of PTSD is recruiting Defence personnel. The Rapid Exposure Support-ing Trauma Recovery trial is working with serving and ex-serving personnel to develop an effective PTSD treatment. The trial is investigating prolonged exposure therapy and gives eligible participants the opportunity to receive a condensed version of this “gold standard”, evi-dence-based treatment. The trial is recruiting vol-unteers until July 2020 in Adelaide, Brisbane, Can-berra, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth, Rockingham, Sydney and Townsville. To access the trial, personnel should to speak to their medical officer for a refer-ral. For further informa-tion, call 1800 856 824 or visit phoenixaustralia.org/RESTORE

health: Share life with family and friends through social connection; Engage in community activities like volunteering and team sports; and Build yourself through exercise, good sleep, quality diet and an active mind. Visit dva.gov.au/vhwIf a veteran or veteran’s family member is strug-gling with mental health they call the team at Open Arms – Veterans & Fami-lies Counselling on 1800 011 046 or visit openarms.gov.au

ACW Hope Hannan performs squats during a strength and conditioning class at the RAAF Base Williamtown gym. Photo: SGT Guy Young

7October 31, 2019RCEAIR F News

THE fifth-generation, digital age offers plenty of exciting pathways for Air Force per-sonnel, according to Head

Joint Strike Fighter Division AVM Leigh Gordon.

The amicable AVM, who played a pivotal role in the historic arrival of Australia’s first F-35A Lightning II aircraft last year, will retire from permanent service on November 1 after 37 years.

From his office overlooking the busy tarmac at Canberra Airport, AVM Gordon shared plenty of sage advice for new starters in Air Force as he reflected on a fulfilling and rewarding career that has also been full of surprises.

“It certainly is an exciting time to be in Air Force,” AVM Gordon said.

“It’s very easy to focus on the array of platforms in service at the moment, but if we actually think about the jobs airmen and airwomen are doing on those platforms then you realise how much more influ-ence you can have as an individual.

“The Air Force of today is far more interesting, far more intercon-nected and you can have far more influence.”

AVM Gordon said personnel, particularly those who may be strug-gling to fully grasp the meaning of

a fifth-generation Air Force, should think of it in simple terms to help them embrace future challenges.

“There are many ways to describe what it means to be a fifth-generation Air Force,” he said.

“For me, it is a concept, not a text book definition. A simple bump-er sticker description is that ‘data is the key and a shared awareness is the force multiplier’.”

For more than three decades, AVM Gordon said Air Force had always valued his contributions as an engineer and his passion for developing air power.

“I’ve always found it easy to find a passion for what I’m doing in Air Force. It has been easy for me as Air Force values my contribution and it values the contributions of the diverse range of specialists who are essential to delivering air and space capability,” he said.

AVM Gordon said a driving force behind his success in Air Force and personally was his wife, Adele, and their two children.

“I could not have achieved what I have without my family support-ing me. My wife has been an Air Force officer for most of my career and she has been a great sounding board and source of support,” AVM Gordon said.

For a healthier workplace he encouraged personnel “to be com-fortable to talk about your life with others” and to also be prepared to listen to others when needed.

Although AVM Gordon has a deep relationship with the F-35A and has worked with numerous other platforms, such as the P-8A Poseidon and the Heron remotely piloted aircraft, his favourite by far is the RAAF’s former trainer jet, the Macchi MB-326H.

AVM Gordon said he developed a soft spot for the Macchi while at No. 2 Flying Training School and No. 25 Squadron in the mid ’90s.

“I certainly enjoyed working with the Macchi; it was an aircraft that was made by artisans and had to be maintained by artisans to get the most out of it. It would be lovely to see a Macchi flying somewhere in Australia now,” he said.

As patron for ADF rowing, most early mornings you will find AVM Gordon rowing on the capital’s Lake Burley Griffin in a single scull. In the near future, this is where he will no doubt reflect on what has been a career full of achievements – one that ended on a high with the F-35A, which he says is “one of Air Force’s most inspirational” aircraft.

As he prepares for retirement, Head JSF Division AVM Leigh Gordon talks to Lawrence Dutrieux about the F-35A and how personnel can engage with our fifth-generation Air Force.

FROM TYPING POOLS TO DRONESWHEN Head Joint Strike Fighter Division AVM Leigh Gordon began his career more than three decades ago, Air Force was a far cry from what it is today.

“We didn’t have computers; everything was on paper. If we wanted to send a facsimile to somebody and it was more than two pages, you had to find a GPCAPT to get a signature to send it – quite a different con-cept to what work is today,” AVM Gordon said.

He recalls typing pools, Canberra bombers doing sur-veillance missions and WWII Dakota aircraft still in service.

“There certainly has been an evolution in the hardware. I

really didn’t have any idea about the potential for the organisation to evolve back then,” he said.

“But now, looking back, I can see those logical steps that have occurred, especially with the advent of things like comput-ing power and the impact that it has had on technology.”

For personnel just starting out, AVM Gordon said: “Don’t expect Air Force to stay the same across your career – it will continually evolve and grow as the world changes.”

He advises personnel to commit to making a “contribution to Air Force – have a say, put your hand up and gain a better understanding of the mission to become part of its success”.

AVM Gordon said diversity, inclusivity and positive cultural change have had a big impact on improving Air Force as an organisation and as a balanced workplace.

So what does our Air Force look like in the future? AVM Gordon said he envisages more autonomous systems.

“I expect as we think about the platforms and the hardware we are using, they will become even more integrated than we aspire to today,” he said.

“We will have solved some of those big networking chal-lenges; indeed, we will be more interested in how the network works as opposed to individual platforms.”

A bright future ahead

Head Joint Strike Fighter Division AVM Leigh Gordon during the welcoming ceremony for the first two F-35A Lightning II aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown, December 10, 2018. Photo: SGT Amanda Campbell

AVM Leigh Gordon, centre front, with the

2018 Joint Strike Fighter Integrated Project Team

at Brindabella Park, Canberra.

Photo: Lauren Larking

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9October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Features

LIFE IN THE RAAF

FINDING the perfect fit is how LACW Georgia Armitage describes working on the F/A-18A/B Hornets at No. 75

Squadron.In her role as an aircraft techni-

cian, she is responsible for preparing Hornets for flight and engine mainte-nance tasks.

She enjoys learning the intricacies of engine systems and troubleshoot-ing to ensure the Hornets can take off smoothly and safely.

LACW Armitage deployed with 75SQN on Exercise Cope North to Guam earlier in the year.

“The maintenance team worked hard to keep our Hornets running to complete a total of 169 sorties during Cope North,” LACW Armitage said.

“It’s always interesting to work in a different environment and with the United States and Japanese militaries.

“On exercise we don’t have all our usual tools and resources so it requires us to think outside the box to solve maintenance problems.”

LACW Armitage grew up in Gladstone, Queensland, and always

had an interest in mechanics and team sports, and a love for the out-doors, so she was extremely happy with her first posting to RAAF Base Tindal in 2018.

It’s not just the role that LACW Armitage enjoys about the Air Force, but also the variety of opportunities.

“I have grown up playing softball and was selected in the NT ADF Softball team in 2018,” she said.

“Our team won the match and I was lucky to be picked in the ADF national team, playing in the Anzac match and claiming victory against New Zealand.

“ADF sport is the best way to make friends from a wide range of musterings and I really appreciate the camaraderie and community feel.

“The sense of community is something that resonates with my remote posting to Tindal and within 75SQN.”

LACW Armitage is looking forward to further developing her aircraft knowledge and winning more softball games for the ADF through-out her Air Force career.

Made for the taskEnjoying the job is easy for one LACW, writes FLTLT Kat Trimble.

Aircraft Technician LACW Georgia Armitage inspects an access panel on an F/A-18A/B Hornet at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Photo: SGT Kirk Peacock

10 News

Taking to the skies for Nigrum

Worthy honour

CAPT Taylor Lynch

THE shrill, bone-shattering sound of F/A-18A/B Hornet fighter jets and ARH Tiger helicopters filled the Townsville Field Training Area in early October while they circled and eliminated simu-lated enemies at Exercise Nigrum Pugio.

A combined effort of joint terminal attack controllers (JTAC), 1st Aviation Regiment and RAAF’s No. 75 Squadron, the exercise was a success in retaining qualifications for troops who conduct air strikes with jets and helicopters from the ground.

CAPT Chris Pitman stressed the importance of JTAC exercises like Nigrum Pugio, saying the small com-munity of close air support operators relished any opportunity to practise their skills.

“The JTAC training is important because it’s a niche capability, and

without exercises like this the training wouldn’t be offered to the troops out in the wider brigade environment,” CAPT Pitman said.

As it is a mentally challenging job with catastrophic consequences if mis-takes are made, CAPT Pitman said the processes were stringent and followed closely.

“You’ll receive an aircraft checking in on the radio, they’ll outline their capa-bilities and weapons they’re carrying for the day, and you then go through the processes you learn on the JTAC course to match the appropriate weapon to your target,” CAPT Pitman said.

“The feeling of calling in an airstrike is rewarding and satisfying knowing that you’ve gone through a rigorous course to become qualified, so to actually come out and employ the skill set that we’re afforded was a really rewarding feeling.”

An F/A-18A/B Hornet, of No. 75 Squadron, takes off from RAAF Base Townsville during Exercise Nigrum Pugio. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

FLTLT Tracey Bowman

WOFF Daryl Bessell was thrilled to receive a Federation Star and the fifth clasp to his Defence Long Service Medal last month, in recognition of his 40-year Air Force career.

With significant time served in the permanent Air Force and as a reserv-ist, WOFF Bessell reflected upon his career since enlisting as a supplier in 1977.

“I was working for a company in West Melbourne and Air Force mem-bers would come into the shop and purchase parts,” WOFF Bessell said.

“I started talking to them and they would tell me what a great life they had. After thinking about that, I attend-ed the recruiting centre in Melbourne and the rest is history.”

After four years as a supplier, WOFF Bessell re-mustered to a physi-cal training instructor in 1981.

“I absolutely love sport and physi-cal training, and during my early years of Air Force I was representing the ADF in various sports including squash, AFL and cricket,” WOFF Bessell said.

“I thought why not become a

physical trainer so I can train members of the Air Force in health and fitness. With that in mind I switched my career and never looked back.”

The committed airman thoroughly enjoyed the next 16 years as a PTI and transferred to the Reserves in 1997, before re-joining permanent Air Force in 2001.

“When I returned to the Air Force, I underwent training to become a military skills instructor. Following the training, I spent the next few years instructing, which was challenging and rewarding at the same time,” WOFF Bessell said.

“In 2008 I re-mustered to Warrant Officer Disciplinary until I finished my career at the age of 60, then started reserve work for No. 21 Squadron at RAAF Base Point Cook and have been working under a continuous full-time service contract since March this year.”

CO 21SQN WGCDR James Rogers congratulated WOFF Bessell for his long-standing commitment to Air Force, acknowledging this signifi-cant personal and professional accomplishment.

“WOFF Bessell joins the privileged few who have achieved the milestone

WOFF Daryl Bessell receives a Federation Star and the fifth clasp to his Defence Long Service Medal from AIRCDRE Glen Braz. Photo: FLTLT Tracey Bowman

of serving his country for 40 years,” WGCDR Rogers said.

“It is testament to his pride in both our organisation and people that he came out of retirement without hesitation to serve as the Base Warrant

Officer at 21SQN, and I am extremely grateful for the experience he brings to the squadron.”

WOFF Bessell said he also enjoyed a number of opportunities during his time in Air Force, including serving as

an instructor at the Combat Survival Training School and deploying on operations. “Being able to deploy on Operation Slipper and serve my coun-try was a unique and extremely fulfill-ing experience,” he said.

See footage at: video.army.gov.au/play/16368

11October 31, 2019RCEAIR F News

SQNLDR Deanna Nott

A REFLECTION corner designed to help Defence personnel deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures has been revealed at RAAF Base Amberley.

More than 30 local Elders and emerging leaders joined members of Joint Logistics Unit – South Queensland (JLU-SQ) for a special ceremony to unveil the reflection cor-ner and strengthen local commitment to Defence’s Pathway to Change.

The reflection corner is an immer-sive space combining a garden and artwork designed by JLU-SQ and local students from the Hymba Yumba, a local Prep-Year 12 school.

RAAF Amberley Indigenous Liaison Officer FLTLT Kristal House said the reflection corner was a unique and innovative way to show ‘visible commitment’ to diversity and inclusion.

“This is a wonderful initiative from JLU-SQ as it will encourage thought and deepen cultural awareness,” FLTLT House said.

“Our local Elders were particularly impressed by the idea and have told me they would love other bases across the nation to develop similar places as it fosters better understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the land on which we work and meet.”

CO JLU-SQ LTCOL Meegan Olding said her unit came up with the idea of a reflection corner when looking for ways to actively embody Defence’s Pathway to Change in con-junction with the new Reconciliation Action Plan.

“We wanted to find a way to recog-nise the importance of empowerment in the workplace and cultural reform, while working towards achieving Defence’s vision for diversity and inclusion,” LTCOL Olding said.

“Our reflection corner captures the essence of incredible cultures and is just one part of our unit’s plan to deepen Defence’s relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

LTCOL Olding said her unit had been focused on developing stronger ties with local Indigenous peoples over the past year.

“For example, our members regularly engaged with students from Hymba Yumba and developed a close relationship with the school,” she said.

“One aspect of our engagement plan was an art workshop that not only fostered greater rapport for our interac-tion but also created cultural links for the students and a local artist.

“Over a series of workshops, local Aboriginal artist Eric Ellis worked with all of us to help create a painting that told the story of diversity, recon-ciliation and shared meaning.

A P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft arrived at the ADF’s main oper-ating base in the Middle East on October 15 to join an international maritime security mission.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said the P-8A aircraft’s advanced sur-veillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities provided a modest and meaningful contribution to maintaining the freedom of navigation and safe pas-sage of merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

“The P-8A will work alongside our coalition partners to keep vital supplies for the international community flowing through the region,” Senator Reynolds said.

“Australia has a longstanding com-mitment to maritime security in the waters of the Middle East and continues to support the fundamental right of all states under international law to expect safe passage of their trade.”

The P-8A aircraft’s one-month deployment is part of a limited and time-bound commitment that includes

a six-month deployment of a Navy frigate from January 2020 and a small number of ADF personnel serving in the International Maritime Security Construct headquarters in Bahrain.

The P-8A will finish its deployment by the end of November.

“This military contribution comple-ments our longstanding commitment with allies and partners to anti-piracy and counterterrorism in the Middle East,” Senator Reynolds said.

Air Task Group Commander GPCAPT Mark Barry said it was the first time a P-8A Poseidon had operated in the Middle East.

“Not only will the aircraft be mak-ing an important contribution to region-al peace and security, but we will also be able to test the P-8A and its crew in a number of challenging scenarios,” GPCAPT Barry said.

“The Poseidon will make a welcome addition to the efforts of our coalition partners to boost regional security and help shipping pass through the Strait of Hormuz without interference.”

Poseidon provides increased security

Reflecting on culture

An airman marshals in the P-8A Poseidon on its arrival into the ADF’s main operating base in the Middle East Region. Photo: LS Craig Walton

“This is now the centrepiece of our reflection corner.”

The reflection corner’s garden,

which pays homage to the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land through its use of native flora, was cre-

ated by horticulturalist Bruce Morgan (Phillips) who specialises in the educa-tion of bush tucker and garden design.

FLGOFF Katie Ryan-Baker, front right, CO JLU-SQ LTCOL Meegan Olding, back left, and local Aboriginal artist Eric Ellis, back, second from left, with members of the Hymba Yumba Independent School. Photo: Terry O’Hagan

THE ADF contribution to maritime surveillance in the South Pacific has con-tinued with an Air Force

contingent departing Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia, to conduct targeted maritime sorties as part of Operation Solania.

The latest iteration of Solania from October 3-20 supported the Pacific Islands’ Operation Kuru Kuru, coordinated by the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency

(FFA), which aimed to detect and deter illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing activity.

An Air Force C-27J Spartan and KA-350 King Air aircraft were assigned to Exercise Solania to provide intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support to Pacific Island nations and their operations.

C-27J Spartan Pilot FLGOFF Oran Harden said the aircraft had covered more than 77,000 square kilometres during its first sortie.

“Our mission was to conduct a flight for aerial surveillance within the exclusive economic zone of the Federated States of Microne-sia in support of Operation Kuru Kuru,” FLGOFF Harden said.

“The search area was based on information provided by the FFA, which included personnel from a number of Pacific Island nations.

“It was also a good opportuni-ty for C-27J crews to consolidate maritime surveillance capability in

an operational environment.”Air Force Task Element Com-

mander FLTLT David Holmes pi-loted the KA-350 King Air during the first sortie.

“The King Air covered about 35,000 square kilometres,” FLTLT Holmes said.

“Within our flight crew we also had three maritime patrol and response officers who assisted in the mission to detect and deter il-legal, unregulated and unreported fishing activity.”

THE C-27J Spartan maintenance team for Operation Solania has returned from the high-tempo deployment, where they worked in support of the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency’s largest annual maritime surveillance operation.

The aircraft and avionics technicians generated serviceable aircraft for sorties, as well as embarking in the Spartan air-craft to assist the crew observing vessels at sea.

Avionics Technician CPL Mitchell Cocks said he enjoyed being part of the ADF mission.

“I have enjoyed the missions I have been a part of so far; the change in roles is definitely rewarding when you spot a boat

on the horizon,” CPL Cocks said. “Joining the crew for maritime flights was a huge change in responsibilities compared to my regular role as a maintainer.

“It has also been great to visit new places in the Pacific – I love travelling, so for me it was a great opportunity to experience other cultures and adventure in remote localities.

“There is rich history in the region, particularly from the Second World War.”

Warrant Officer Engineering No. 35 Squadron WOFF Mark Taylor was responsible for the safety and wellbeing of personnel and ensured there was a mainte-nance capability.

“For Solania, our team consisted of

both avionics and aircraft technicians sup-porting daily Spartan flights in the mari-time environment,” WOFF Taylor said.

“Solania had its own unique challenges due to the isolated nature of the areas of operation where equipment and support services were limited.

“Teams often travelled to locations where communication to home could be difficult, so we embarked an autonomous crew who could maintain the aircraft while deployed, independent of the main-tenance support available in Australia.”

The maintenance team achieved a 100 per cent mission success rate for Solania, with all sorties being conducted on time and as planned.

High tempo in the Pacific

AIR Force gave two Palauans a bird’s-eye view during an important anti-illegal fish-ing operation as part of Operation Solania.

Air Force personnel flying the C-27J Spartan on Solania were joined during a maritime sortie by Fisheries Scientist for the Ministry of Natural Resources, Envi-ronment and Tourism, Vanessa Jaiteh, and Officer Carter Yamaguchi of the Division of Marine Law Enforcement – Palau.

They flew in the Spartan for a six-hour mission off the coast of the Republic of Palau.

Mrs Jaiteh said it was great to ex-perience the ADF involvement through Operation Solania and the Pacific Islands’ Operation Kuru Kuru.

“Illegal and unregulated fishing robs Palau and other coastal states of their resources and income that they could be making,” she said.

“One of the biggest issues in Palau is that we don’t have the capacity to enforce law in our exclusive economic zone by ourselves.

“The ADF presence has definitely as-sisted us to do this.

“The flying itself was amazing – it was interesting to be able to observe vessels at sea.”

Air Force Task Element Commander FLTLT David Holmes said working with local authorities was an important aspect of Solania.

“The latest iteration of Solania has sup-ported a targeted effort to detect and deter illegal and unregulated fishing in the South Pacific,” FLTLT Holmes said.

“We’ve been working in our Pacific partners’ backyards and it is with the sup-

EYES FROM ABOVE

port of local agencies and authorities that we could work to achieve the mission.”

The Palau National Marine Sanctuary Act was signed in 2015 and seeks to protect more than 80 per cent of Palau’s exclusive economic zone; the remaining 20 per cent is reserved for traditional fishing and highly regulated domestic fishing.

Operation Solania was the ADF contri-bution to maritime surveillance within the Pacific Region in partnership with Pacific Island nations.

The latest iteration supported Opera-tion Kuru Kuru, which is the Pacific Island Forum Fishing Agency’s largest annual maritime surveillance operation.

Best seats for scientistsON-THE-job training in the Pacific during an ADF maritime surveillance operation was a major job perk for PLTOFF Alannah Kreidl.

As a member of the Air Force con-tingent for Operation Solania, PLTOFF Kreidl joined personnel from No. 35 and No. 32 Squadrons in Solomon Is-lands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.

PLTOFF Kreidl, a trainee maritime patrol and response officer, said she enjoyed her first overseas trip with Air Force.

“Deploying for an operation during our training was unreal,” PLTOFF Kreidl said.

“Learning about my job while on Operation Solania was awesome – it put a lot more context to things and targeted specific aspects of the job role.

Top training “All the travel made the job unique – you were always on the move and always doing something different.”

Maritime patrol and response of-ficers operated as part of a mission aircrew, performing missions including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

On completion of her current train-ing at the Air Mission Training School, PLTOFF Kreidl will convert her training to operate on P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

PLTOFF Kreidl joined Air Force after high school in 2016 through the ADF Gap Year program.

“During Year 12, I had no idea what I wanted to do; a lot of my friends were going to take gap years and I wanted to do the same,” PLTOFF Kreidl said.

“I saw the RAAF Gap Year program pop up on Facebook and I thought, that’s something I could do. I ended up loving it.”

13October 31, 2019RCEAIR F12 OPERATION SOLANIA

C-27J Spartan Pilot FLGOFF Oran Harden,

of No. 35 Squadron, conducts a patrol off the

coast of Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, during Operation Solania.

Photos: GNR Sagi Biderman

C-27J Spartan maintainers, of No. 35 Squadron, at Chuuk International Airport.

Fisheries Scientist Vanessa Jaiteh, of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Tourism, observes the coast under supervision of C-27J Spartan Loadmaster CPL Leigh Keioskie during a maritime sortie off the coast of the Republic of Palau.

PLTOFF Alannah Kreidl works on the KA-350 King Air during a maritime sortie off the coast of Chuuk.

The ADF continues its contribution to maritime surveillance in the Pacific, LEUT Max Logan reports.

KA-350 King Air Pilot FLTLT David Holmes conducts a maritime sortie off the coast of Chuuk.

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15October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Features

TWENTY years ago, No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron (1CCS) answered the call to support Interna-

tional Force East Timor (Interfet) and have had personnel deployed on op-erations around the globe ever since.

In recognition of 20 years of con-tinuous communication and informa-tion systems support to operations, a ceremonial parade was held at RAAF Base Amberley on October 10.

Parade Reviewing Officer, Temporary Commander CSG, GPCAPT Robert Graham, acknowl-edged the contribution of 1CCS to ADF operations and the human sacri-fice of such a milestone.

“Across 20 years, 1CCS has deployed on 40 separate operations to places such as East Timor, the Middle East Region, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Sumatra, Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, Pakistan and numerous domestic operations,” GPCAPT Graham said.

“When Air Force has been called upon, 1CCS and its personnel have always been there.

“Some 1500 men and women

have deployed on operations, and countless more on exercises.

“Underpinning the impressive collection of operations is an impor-tant human factor that represents 20 years of people making sacrifices in arduous and hazardous environments and extended time away from family and friends.”

When trying to quantify 1CCS’s effect, numbers can’t be assigned to the significance of the communica-tion and information systems support provided, which GPCAPT Graham reaffirmed that the need is only going to increase.

“I tried to think about how much data may have been transmitted over the past 20 years, but I gave up once I realised just how big a task that would be,” he said.

“Perhaps what is more important is that 1CCS has enabled every one of those statistics that we attribute to air effects.

“As we look to the future, the demand for 1CCS and its personnel will not ease.

“A fifth-generation Air Force is more dependent on information and networks than ever before.”

No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron commemorates 20 years of communication and information systems support, FLTLT Courtney Jay reports.

GPCAPT Robert Graham, centre, inspects personnel during the No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron parade held on the RAAF Base Amberley flightline. Photos: CPL Nicci Freeman

Strong connections

1CCS AT INTERFETWHEN the Australian Government directed that the Australian mili-tary commitment in East Timor was to be increased, No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron personnel were staged at RAAF Base Townsville in prep-aration for Exercise Crocodile 99; they were, however, redirected to Interfet in 1999.

Deploying personnel told their families that they would see them in five weeks’ time.

Five months later they returned home, after providing communications support with No. 382 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron at Baucau

Airfield, 120 kilometres east of Dili. Communications equipment was basic and scarce in the early days of the deployment, with only two satellite voice telephones and relying on HF for data communications.

As the unit’s only satellite data system was deployed to Dili, Interfet arranged for a US Army SATCOM detachment to be col-located at Baucau to increase the data communications capability.

The early days in Timor were both exciting and challenging, with all personnel being limited to a strict five minute telephone call each week.

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16 Features

A MEMORIAL service has been held in the Scottish Highlands to commemo-rate the 75th anniversary

of the Royal Air Force Lancaster Bomber PD259 that crashed in 1944 with six Air Force and one RAF crew member on board.

The bomber’s final flight was led by RAAF FLGOFF RH Beddoe, who was tasked with undertaking a night training flight. At some point, the crew encoun-tered a problem over a remote, mountainous area in the Highlands of Scotland and crashed in a remote, virtually inaccessible area.

Allan Macpherson-Fletcher, owner of Balavil Estate where the aircraft came down, said when the plane crashed, the estate was owned by his Uncle Harry Brewster Macpherson, who died in 1947. His Aunt Peggy then looked after the estate until Mr Macpherson-Fletcher took over in 1975.

“There wasn’t much interest in the bomber until hillwalking

became fashionable in the ’80s and we noticed that one or two bits were being vandalised and pos-sibly removed,” Mr Macpherson-Fletcher said.

“We had various requests from museums and individuals to remove items from the hill and crash site, but we refused permis-sion on the basis that the crash site was a memorial to the seven crew members who were killed.

“In 1994 I received a letter from SQNLDR JT Griffin of the Mission Support Wing at RAF Waddington asking for permission to remove various pieces, and again I denied access.

“Shortly afterwards, how-ever, I received a letter from Ted Richardson of 467-463 Lancaster Squadrons Association asking per-mission to remove one propeller blade from JO-G on behalf of the association’s members who wanted a memorial at Waddington. This handwritten letter was so beauti-fully worded that we allowed it.”

The RAF Waddington Heritage Centre was granted permission to organise a team to visit the crash site to conduct a memorial service, under the stewardship of CHAP Craven.

SQNLDR Daniel Dobbin, RAAF AWCLO at the Australian High Commission, London, was honoured to attend the service.

“It is testament to the value of Australia’s contribution to WWII that the Macpherson family still protects the crash site on their property, and that they saw fit to honour the six Australians and one Scot who gave their lives 75 years ago, by placing a memorial in their family cemetery,” SQNLDR Dobbin said.

“The work done by members of the RAF Waddington team to continue to preserve and honour the sacrifice of the crew of PD259, and all Australians who served at the station, is further evidence of the enduring bond between RAAF the RAF.”

Air Force and RAF come together to remember the crew of the Lancaster Bomber crash 75 years on, FSGT Craig Smith and FLGOFF Candice Green report.

FLGOFF RH Beddoe – Pilot WOFF GH Middleton – Flight

Engineer – RAF FSGT SA Abbot – Mid Upper

Gunner

FSGT TR Dent – Wireless Operator/Air Gunner

FSGT BM Glover – Rear Gunner FSGT DH Ryan – Bomb Aimer FSGT FM Walker – Navigator

The crew of PD259 in 1944

A flight to remember

People gather at the Lancaster Bomber PD259 memorial at Balavil Estate for the 75th anniversary commemorations. Photo supplied by Martin Middleton

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17October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Features

THE not-for-profit Army and Air Force Canteen Service (AAFCANS) contributed $534,985.22 to Air Force and Army welfare in the 2018/2019 financial year through its automated retail vending program.

The top three recipients were RAAF Base Williamtown with an impressive $18,053.57, RAAF Base Edinburgh with $17,643.69, and RAAF Base Darwin, which contin-ues to punch above its weight with $13,909.38 in disbursement returns generated from only four machines.

In total, 29 Defence welfare funds benefited from the prof-its generated by 289 AAFCANS-branded vending machines, spread across 34 ADF bases.

AAFCANS Managing Director Stewart McGrow said social clubs and RTFs around the country have benefited by leveraging the AAFCANS supply chain.

“We have been providing ADF social clubs with access to our wholesale pricing, discounts and special trade promotions,” Mr McGrow said.

“They all highly value this relationship and in particular the convenient on-base deliveries via AAFCANS canteens.

“Support we have offered has included coffee machines, con-sumables, grocery and beverage products.”

AAFCANS has recently pro-

cured some contemporary tap-n-go vending machines, designed to offer heat-and-serve meal options – these are currently on trial at selected bases, where they can further sup-port the resident ADF members with access to out-of-hours meals.

Further trials are underway with machines that include protein snacks, healthy treats, health, beau-

ty and convenience products, and fresh-bean barista-style coffee.

AAFCANS’ mission is to con-tribute to Defence capability by enhancing personnel morale and wellbeing.

For more information contact AAFCANS HQ on 07 3332 6356, or visit AAFCANS website aafcans.gov.au/giving-back

Giving back a win-winAn Air Force member uses the new tap-n-go AAFCANS vending machine.

PLAN Jericho has introduced Ai-Search – an artificial intel-ligence (Ai) prototype – to transform airborne search and

rescue.The prototype came about after

AIRCDRE Darren Goldie challenged Jericho to find a way of using a detec-tor on an aircraft to enhance search and rescue (SAR).

Plan Jericho’s Ai lead WGCDR Michael Gan said Jericho saw the opportunity to use Ai to augment and enhance SAR.

“The idea was to train a machine-learning algorithm and Ai sensors to

complement existing visual search techniques. Our vision was to give any aircraft and other Defence platforms, including unmanned aerial systems, a low-cost improvised SAR capability,” WGCDR Gan said.

Jericho enlisted the help of LEUT Harry Hubbert, of Warfare Innovation Navy Branch, to find an orange hull in a large body of water, using Ai, in a month. LEUT Hubbert developed the algorithms in his own time within two weeks.

“We needed to test the algorithm and gather data to further train the Ai,” WGCDR Gan said.

“35SQN gave fantastic support and flew the Ai-Search team and sensors in a C-27J sortie over the Tamar River in Tasmania capturing a range of life rafts, life boats and safety equipment.

“The first test flight worked bril-liantly. It will be the first in a series to develop and evaluate the proof of concept.”

LEUT Hubbert said it felt amaz-ing to be up in the C-27J gathering data to train the algorithms that he had developed.

“There is a lot of discussion about Ai in Defence – but the sheer process-ing power of machine-learning applied

to SAR has the potential to save lives and transform SAR,” LEUT Hubbert said.

Director Plan Jericho GPCAPT Jerome Reid said this was how Jericho needed to approach advanced capabil-ity for Defence.

“Empower our bright sparks, con-nect them with mentors and resources, get out of their way and let the magic happen,” GPCAPT Reid said.

“Jericho is running EDGY Air Force, a new Jericho acceleration pro-gram, to bring out the talents of our people.”

Ai-Search is a Plan Jericho

collaboration with the Warfare Innovation Navy Branch, Air Mobility Group’s 35SQN and the University of Tasmania’s Australian Maritime College. More partners, including Defence Science and Technology, have been engaged to contribute to future project phases.

Join EDGY Air Force and turn your game-changing idea into a joint force edge, submit your idea to plan.jericho@defence.gov.au or visit airforce.gov.au/EDGY Up to $5 million in ‘Edge Bounties’ are available for units and squadrons during the 2019/2020 financial year.

Plan Jericho is helping to move airborne search-and-rescue techniques into the future, Samara Kitchener reports.

Search intelligence

LEUT Harry Hubbert, of Warfare Innovation Navy Branch, works with the Plan Jericho artificial intelligence prototype set to transform airborne search and rescue.Photo: WGCDR Michael Gan

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19October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Personnel

FLTLT Jessica Aldred

THE Directorate of Organisational Behaviour and Culture (DOB&C) Personnel Branch – Air Force has devel-oped a ‘one-stop shop’ resources page on the Air Force intranet, covering a range of strategy and culture initiatives.

Director DOB&C Tony Hewson said the resources are tailored for command-ers, supervisors and individual members.

“These resources are helpful in explaining the connections between a number of strategy and culture initiatives within Air Force and Defence, such as the Air Force Strategy, our values and fifth-generation attributes, and Pathway to Change,” Mr Hewson said.

“It creates a way for Air Force per-sonnel to access these resources in one, easy-to-find place.”

The resources page includes fact sheets, posters, presentations, diagrams and longer guides, all in simple language.

“As our evolution into a fifth-gener-ation Air Force progresses rapidly, it’s

critical that we all understand how we contribute to Air Force’s culture and how each of these elements helps us to suc-ceed,” Mr Hewson said.

The resources cover the following topics: Defence White Paper Air Force Strategy and

fifth-generation Air Force Plan Jericho Defence Cultural Intent Pathway to Change and New Horizon One Defence Leadership Behaviours Air Force values Diversity and inclusion Indigenous affairs Leadership Personnel psychology

These resources are now available for all Air Force members to access.

For more information and to download these resources, visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/raaf/AirForce/PERSAF/PersonnelBranch-AF/Pages/Resources.aspx

Resources in one-stop-shop

FLTLT Bel Scott

HE WAS a military working dog whose performance, bark and bite was unques-tionable, but to his keeper, Shane Marks, Mig’s greatest strength was his ability to boost morale in times of adversity.

Mig, a military working dog from No. 3 Security Forces Squadron, served for five years and recently passed away peacefully after a short battle with ill-ness. He was 11 years old, or 77 in human years.

The German Shepherd and veteran was well-known for supporting vari-ous exercises and operations, including Exercises Black Dagger and Talisman Sabre, and Operation Southern Indian Ocean at Learmonth, Western Australia.

In 2014, Mig was awarded the ADF Trackers and War Dog Association Medal for five years’ service to the ADF – a recognition not too many working dogs live long enough to earn.

In the same year, after acquiring sev-eral service injuries, Mr Marks retired Mig and seamlessly integrated him into his home.

He said the passing of military work-

ing dogs normally goes unnoticed by the wider ADF community.

“Our four-legged service members are a vital part of the team; they put their life on the line to serve and protect our people. However, they are not often recognised unless killed in action,” Mr Marks said.

“I’m so proud to have served by Mig’s side and have him become part of my family, although he was always fam-ily to me.

“My wife and I didn’t think he would last into 2015, but thankfully our vet helped us come up with a treatment program.

“Every birthday from when we got him home was a gift.

“I will always remember and honour his contribution to national security and, most importantly, my family.”

Throughout his working career, Mig was also fostered for six months by for-mer CDF ACM (retd) Mark Binskin, who was ACAUST at the time.

“He was a great pup and will always be a part of my life,” ACM Binskin said.

Rest in peace, mighty Mig.

Remembering mighty Mig

Former Military Working Dog Handler then LAC Shane Marks, of No. 3 Security Forces Squadron, with Mig in 2014. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

Virginia Sanders

AS THE Defence Blood Challenge reached the halfway point, FLGOFF Scott Larsen rolled up his sleeves for his first plasma donation.

“I have done whole blood before but I didn’t realise how important plasma can be for treating serious burns and cancer,” he said.

“You can also donate more regularly, so I plan on increasing the frequency that I donate.”

FLGOFF Larsen is one of hun-dreds of Air Force members who have given blood or plasma as part of this year’s challenge, which runs until December 8.

“It’s just a really great cause, and it’s amazing the number of people that are getting behind it and supporting it – I wanted to do my part,” he said.

FLGOFF Larsen first started donating when he learned how a small amount of his time would have a big impact.

“My first donation was a few years ago, leading into Easter. I heard an ad on the radio saying blood stores were critically low for my blood type so I decided to donate,” he said.

“It felt good knowing that 30 minutes of my time could mean the difference between someone getting to see their kids grow up or not.”

Air Force has set the date for a national plasma donation push on November 14.

CAF AIRMSHL Mel Hupfeld has called on Air Force members across the country to get involved.

“Your generous donations this year have so far saved more than 2500 lives, which is an amazing

achievement,” AIRMSHL Hupfeld said. “The constant demand for blood products means there’s always more we can do, so I urge you to put November 14 in your diary and help out by giving plasma or blood, organising transport or spreading the word.”

If you’ve been thinking of donat-ing, FLGOFF Larsen encourages you to contact your nearest donor centre today.

“Giving blood or plasma is easy, straightforward and rewarding. It doesn’t take long and your donation could save someone you know and care about,” he said.

Let’s make November 14 a record-win-ning day for plasma donations across the nation. Individuals can make an appoint-ment at donateblood.com or by calling 13 14 95. To book a small team of up to six to donate together, call 1300 886 524.

Positive impact

FLGOFF Scott Larsen, of HQ Air Command, donates plasma as part of the Defence Blood Challenge.Photo: CPL Casey Forster

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20 Personnel

FLGOFF Malia Naupoto

MOVEMBER came ear ly for FLGOFF Josh Moore and FLTLT Nick Colless-White, who raised more than $1000 and generated a greater awareness for men’s health at RAAF School of Administrative and Logistics Training when they had their impressive moustaches removed in September.

The sausage sizzle chari ty fundraiser, hosted by personnel capa-bility officers and personnel capabili-ty specialist initial courses, highlight-ed important welfare topics and their impact on Air Force’s personnel.

FLGOFF Josh Moore said he was inspired to participate in the Movember campaign because of a personal experience.

“I ’ve seen too many men ‘toughing it out’, keeping their feel-ings to themselves and struggling in

silence. I wanted to help prevent men from dying too young,” FLGOFF Moore said.

“We recently completed the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training course as part of our PCOIC and I wanted to use the opportunity to encourage discussion of welfare issues including mental health and suicide prevention.”

It was a sentiment shared by FLTLT Colless-White.

“I saw the removal of what was considered an identifiable moustache as an opportunity to re-frame the topic of conversation with my col-leagues and friends towards a mean-ingful cause that I am very passionate about,” FLTLT Colless-White said.

All money raised during the fund-raiser was donated to the Movember Foundation, a charity dedicated to changing the face of men’s health.

FLTLT Nick Colless-White, left, and FLGOFF Josh Moore get ready to remove their moustaches in support of Movember. Photo: ACW Kasey Usuga

A mo farewell

CAPT Jarrad Baldwin

TRACKING emails through argu-ably the busiest inbox in the Middle East is no easy feat, but CPL Miranda Gosney has taken on the challenge with ease.

The personnel capability special-ist (PCS), who grew up on Victoria’s Phillip Island, is deployed on Operation Accordion as the Registry Clerk in HQ Joint Task Force 633 at the ADF’s main operating base for the Middle East Region.

“I’m responsible for the receipt, tracking and distribution of all official correspondence moving through the headquarters,” CPL Gosney said.

“My typical work day is very reac-tive, which I enjoy because it keeps me on my toes.”

CPL Gosney’s keen eye for mis-takes ensures the smooth movement of correspondence and she is not afraid to use the red pen when mistakes are uncovered.

“Much of what the joint task force commander needs to approve will come through me in preparation for his endorsement. High standards have to be maintained, so if the admin is not up to scratch it goes back to the sender,” she said.

CPL Gosney joined Air Force in 2013 after completing Year 12 and posted to No. 34 Squadron after ini-

tial employment training. As her first operational deployment, the experi-ence has been one she will never forget.

“It’s definitely a challenge to deploy on operations, but that’s why I joined Defence in the first place,” CPL Gosney said.

“The people I work with are the highlight of my time away from home. Every day I learn new skills, but can rely on a great support network of women in the orderly room for advice and help.

“I have benefited a lot, both per-sonally and professionally, from this experience and will bring new skills back to Australia.”

Staying on track

Personnel Capability Specialist

CPL Miranda Gosney, right, assists

CPL Fiona Entriken at the orderly

room counter at Headquarters Joint

Task Force 633 in the Middle East Region.

Photo: CPL Dan Pinhorn

Toll Transitions is ready to help you relocate

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WarrantyToll’s Warranty extends to cover the contents of cartons unpacked by you (excluding breakables and PBO items). PBO items are not covered except in the case of loss or obvious damage to the carton caused by the removalist. If there is damage, please ensure the carton is unpacked in your presence and damage noted on the eICR.

Toll’s Warranty Scheme allows for New replacement cover to be applied to items which fall within predefined categories and age limits. Like-for-like replacement or compensation cover will continue to apply to items which fall outside the specified age limits. Not every item that sustains damage will be replaced with a new item or compensation paid at new value. In the first instance damaged items will be repaired where practicable and compensation paid for minor damage. Warranty FAQs and Toll’s Relocation Guide (Chapter 4) on Toll’s Defence website provide further details.

Read Toll’s Defence Relocation GuideAvailable on Toll’s Defence Website www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence, the Relocation Guide will help you to understand your rights and responsibilities throughout your relocation. For example, in preparing for your removal, washing machines and refrigerators must be drained, wiped dry and cleaned. Washing machine bowls should be secured by you (refer to the manufacturer’s instructions).

Complete your Application for Relocation (AFR) and your Inventory Go to www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence to access and complete your AFR and Inventory. Your Toll Case Manager, or Toll’s Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167, can help you with any queries you may have.

What is a Pre-Removal Visit (PRV)?The purpose of the PRV is to clarify all the particular needs of your removal, such as access conditions, whether items need attention, confirmation of the size of your move and your unpack election. If your move requires a PRV your Case Manager will advise you and a Toll Transitions Consultant will call you to arrange a suitable time to visit your home. It’s important you make yourself available for a PRV should your move require one.

FLTLT Tracey Bowman

WWII veteran pilot Ron Benson reacquainted himself with a beloved Boomerang aircraft, displayed by Air Force’s Temora Historic Flight, during the Tocumwal Airshow, held in NSW in September.

The former FLTLT is one of the last surviving WWII Boomerang pilots in Australia and it has been 74 years since he last flew a Boomerang aircraft.

“I was born in Cape Town, South Africa, in 1923, and I moved to Australia with my family at the age of three,” Mr Benson said.

“I left school after Year 10 and was working as a junior clerk with Elder Smith & Co Wool Brokers in Geelong, Victoria, when WWII broke out.”

Mr Benson said he signed up to join Air Force in 1942 when he was 18 years old.

“My concerned mother warned me not to fly too fast or too low,” he said.

“Before I joined the RAAF, I had never been in a plane before, so try to imagine my excite-ment when I started training in the Tiger Moth aircraft at No. 5 Squadron.”

After the initial training, Mr Benson was post-ed to Mareeba, Queensland, before being post-ed to No. 4 Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron in New Guinea in 1943.

“My main role was as a tactical reconnais-sance pilot and I frequently used bombs, smoke bombs, machine guns, cannons and photog-raphy equipment during missions,” Mr Benson said.

“I undertook many operational missions in both Wirraway and Boomerang aircraft over New Guinea and New Britain.”

Mr Benson pointed out that the area around New Guinea and New Britain was one of the most difficult areas to fly in the world.

“On average I flew one sortie every second day and I had five close calls during the war,” he said.

“My most memorable moment was in the mountainous terrain of New Guinea when I was completely surrounded by clouds. I had a quick prayer and asked to be saved. Suddenly, a hole appeared in the clouds below, exposing a small airstrip and I managed to land safely.”

Mr Benson discharged from service at the end of WWII in 1945. He considered the three years of Air Force experience as the highlight of his life.

“I was incredibly proud to have clocked up 246 hours on the Wirraway aircraft and 175 hours on the Boomerang from my time in the RAAF,” he said.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the excellent training and comradeship. I have nothing but praise for the organisation and I will treasure this experi-ence forever.”

Mr Benson moved on to study medicine and later became a general practitioner. He contin-ued general practice until his 70s and worked as the medical superintendent at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital during the 1980s. After retiring, Mr Benson kept himself busy by writing papers on social issues.

He looks forward to joining Air Force’s cente-nary celebrations in 2021.

Treasured memories

WWII Pilot Ron Benson, with RAAF reservist Pilot FLTLT Matt Denning, gets reacquainted with the Boomerang A46-122, on display at the Tocumwal Airshow in NSW.

21October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Personnel

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22 Sp rt

FLGOFF Malia Naupoto

TWO tri-service, all-female crews rep-resenting the ADF Sailing Association (ADFSA) claimed top spot at the first Ladies of the Sea Coaching Regatta in Sydney from October 5-6.

Run by the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS), the regatta aimed to encourage women in sailing, with 10 Defence members forming three crews that included a mix of novices and experienced sailors competing against established crews.

ADFSA won the One Design Female Crew and took first and third place in the One Design Female Helm division.

Competing with no prior sailing experience, FLGOFF Carmen Quinn said winning was just one of the rewarding moments.

“Sailing was an exhilarating experi-ence that challenged me physically and mentally, pushing me beyond my com-fort zone in a fun and engaging way,” FLGOFF Quinn said.

“Out on the water, your leadership, teamwork and communication skills are being developed in a challenging, time-sensitive environment.

“Win or lose, the sense of accom-plishment, and in this case doing so alongside fellow Army and Navy peers, was the real reward.”

ADFSA President WGCDR Sean Ahern was proud of the teams’ perfor-mance in and out of the water.

“The RSYS regatta provided Defence the opportunity to show our

Smooth sailing to win

support for the female sailing com-munity and to further develop our own ADF sailors, and these members achieved that,” WGCDR Ahern said.

The feedback from instructors and

civilian participants alike was that the dedication, initiative and rigour of their military experience was a demonstration of their great potential to learn and be good sailors.

“I highly encourage others, regard-less of experience, to take part in sailing, as it helps to enhance capabili-ties, build confidence, develop skills on the water, foster camaraderie and

experience the exhilaration of racing,” WGCDR Ahern said.

Find more information at: adfsa.committee@defence.gov.au

From left, FLGOFF Joy Clarke, LEUT Emma Cook, CPL Nadine Ilic and FLGOFF Malia Naupoto prepare for the Ladies of the Sea Coaching Regatta. Photo: Marg Fraser-Martin

23October 31, 2019RCEAIR F Sp rt

CPL Veronica O’Hara

FOR the first time, the Australian Defence Force Rugby League (ADFRL) and NRL teams travelled together for a tour of Fiji from October 8-12.

The tour concluded with ADFRL women’s and men’s teams playing matches against the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) at ANZ Stadium in Suva.

The games were curtain raisers ahead of the main matches between the Australian and Fijian PM’s XIII teams.

In the games against the ‘Army Bears’, ADFRL women drew 10-all and the men scored 22-20.

LACW Meg Ward said they had a few new players, but everyone played well.

“We had a couple of players that really stood up – Maddie, Kez, Demi

and Payge through the middle, and the players out wide ran really hard, which helped make our metres,” LACW Ward said.

“The Fijians played a lot of hard footy, which was tough for us in the heat; we were sweating before warm ups.”

LACW Ward found it interesting that the Fijian team all came from dif-ferent villages.

“They had the same issue as us, where they came together just before the game, but they all play footy and love it and I thought they did really well, which is exciting for Fiji,” she said.

“Moving forward and looking down the track to the World Cup in 2021, hopefully Fiji can continue to grow.”

The men’s result was a good turn-around after losing the world games to Fiji in 2017.

Due to a busy schedule, ADFRL men’s coach FSGT Geoff Britton said they only had time for one training ses-sion in country before the game.

“Our line defence was good. I think about 10 minutes before half time, Fiji was on our line for four sets and we held them right up to half time,” FSGT Britton said.

“We knew they’d come back hard when the ball was sticking in their hands and they’d start to play their Fiji footy by throwing it around, that’s when they really started making in-roads.”

LAC Rob Worsley had played the Fijians before so he knew what to expect.

“We knew they’d come home hard ’cause they’re so fit and fast,” LAC Worsley said.

“We’ve got a lot of new players this time, which I think made a difference,

as they brought a lot of enthusiasm with them.”

ADFRL President AIRCDRE Ken Quinn hoped this would become an annual event to alternate between Papua New Guinea and the south-west Pacific each year.

“The PM’s XIII has been played in PNG for the past 13 years and we hope to make it back here every second year now,” AIRCDRE Quinn said.

“For women’s rugby in Fiji, it’s a huge step, being the first time the RFMF has fielded a team.

“It’s been a great opportunity for our young men and women to meet and play with their peers in the Pacific.”

ADFRL’s annual inter-service competition is scheduled for March 7-16, 2020, where representative squads will be selected for next year’s Pacific tour and the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

League diplomacy

CPL Veronica O’Hara

A CHORUS of singing greeted ADF rugby league players at Ba Provincial High School during their tour of Fiji. It was a scene not expected by BDR Tim Muhamad.

“When we were wel-comed by the girls and boys singing together, it gave me goosebumps all over,” he said.

The team arrived with NRL community program coordinator, Alan Tongue, to talk about respect for oneself and each other.

Mr Tongue demonstrat-ed respect with a student and a rugby ball, “pass the ball how you want to receive it”.

“We really believe the game has the huge oppor-tunity to enrich people’s lives,” he said.

“Not only through play-ing and mateship, but that the game teaches you one of the main messages for life – how to be respect-ful and how you treat other people.”

The Defence captains also shared what it meant to them before everyone headed out to throw the footy around. They took the kids through foot-ball drills, but LAC Rob Worsley said even the younger ones could catch a ball.

“I don’t know if it’s the island life and spending so much time outdoors, but their skill levels are already quite high,” LAC Worsley said.

“Having Alan Tongue there was massive, he’s very good and set the example.”

Community engagement

AFTER missing the previ-ous week’s shock loss to the Warriors, LACW Meg Ward was at her best with the boot during Brisbane’s NRL Women’s grand final win over St George Illawarra.

LACW Ward slotted four goals from five attempts, including one from the sideline, to compound her side’s 30-6 domination of the Dragons.

A clinical performance from the Broncos allowed them to capitalise on Dragons’ handling

errors and win comfortably, clinching back-to-back premierships.

About 37,000 fans witnessed Brisbane apply the blow torch early, piling on several unan-swered tries in the first half.

Chances of a Dragons fight back were snuffed out just after half time when Broncos captain Ali Brigginshaw sent PTE Julia Robinson over for a try in the corner.

Kick to the finish line

LACW Meg Ward takes a kick at the NRLW grand final at ANZ Stadium. Photo: Shane Myers © NRL Photos

CPL Connor O’Neill shakes hands and gifts a football to a Ba Provincial High School player in Fiji.

ADFRL vs RFMF Army BearsWomen 10-all Men 22-20

PM’s XIII – Australia vs FijiJillaroos 22-14 Fiji BulikulaKangaroos 52-10 Fiji Bati

ADFRL vs His Majesty’s Armed Forces, TongaWomen 36-0 Men 32-10

ADFRL vs Samoan Combined ServicesWomen 18-16Men 16-4

Scorecard

SGT Mitch Knowles pushes through a tackle from members of the Fiji Military Forces Rugby League team before the Prime Minister’s XIII games at ANZ Stadium in Suva, Fiji. Photos: CPL Veronica O’Hara

SP RTOctober 31, 2019

A strong finish for ADF Rugby League in Fiji

Page 23

LACW Meg Ward, from the ADF Rugby League team, pushes through players from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Rugby League at the Prime Minister’s XIII games at ANZ Stadium in Suva, Fiji.Photo: CPL Veronica O’Hara

PUSH TO THE FINISH