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OUR STORY
Page 4
National Reconciliation
Week
INSIDE: NEW SPACE DIVISION – Page 2 TOP END TRAINING – Pages 3, 12-13 CHAMPION COACH – Page 22
AIRAIRFF RCERCEVol. 63, No. 9, May 27, 2021 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force
Sitting in RAAF Base Richmond’s yarning circle, SGT James Lambeth talks about his heritage in the lead up to National Reconciliation Week. Photo: CPL Dan Pinhorn
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DEFENCE will establish a Space Division headquar-ters within Air Force early next year, with person-
nel from all areas within Defence, reflecting the importance of the space domain.
CAF AIRMSHL Mel Hupfeld said AVM Cath Roberts had been selected to lead the new division.
“I congratulate Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts selected as the inaugu-ral Head of Defence Space Division – there is no person better suited for the job,” AIRMSHL Hupfeld said.
AVM Roberts said the position was a dream come true.
“To reach for the stars and actu-ally get there is a phenomenal feel-ing,” AVM Roberts said.
“As an aerospace engineer I have always been fascinated by space – the ultimate high-ground.”
AIRMSHL Hupfeld said assured access to space was critical to enabling Defence’s multi-domain operations.
“We use space daily for under-standing the weather, navigating, access to geospatial information and
sharing information across Australia or across the world,” he said.
“Defence is delivering capa-bilities including space domain awareness, sovereign-controlled satellite communications and space-based Earth observation and navigation.
“The Government has com-mitted to significantly increasing investment in Defence’s space capa-bilities by investing around $7 billion this decade to ensure our access to space, space services and geospatial information.
“Defence will need capabilities that directly contribute to outcomes in space as a contested domain, however this does not mean that Defence encourages the militarisa-tion of space.
“All space operations are con-ducted consistent with international and domestic legal obligations.”
As the Defence Space Domain lead, AIRMSHL Hupfeld is con-ducting a space domain review to improve how space capabilities are managed, acquired and operated.
Air Force moves into new space
DEFENCE is seeking volunteers for a research project into how ADF members keep mentally fit.
Defence has partnered with Phoenix Australia: Centre for Post Traumatic Mental Health at the University of Melbourne, to under-take the Wellness Action Through Checking Health (WATCH) project.
The project wants to hear from serving ADF members (SERCAT 6 or 7), to learn how they identify and manage early changes in mental health and wellbeing, such as changes in sleeping patterns, relationships or how they cope with everyday events.
Lisa Dell, Associate Professor of Military Mental Health, said initial research had shown there was a proportion of ADF members who are experiencing moderate symptoms of mental health prob-lems, which are significant enough to cause distress and impact their quality of life.
“We know that for some, these symptoms can worsen over time and progress into more substantial problems,” Dr Dell said.
“Identifying early on when changes in mental wellbeing occur is the key to maintaining a healthy and fit workforce.”
The WATCH project aims to identify ways in which the Defence health system can be improved to better address and manage the early impact of changes in mental health.
Members from a range of Defence health service providers are being interviewed about how they identify and manage early changes in mental wellbeing with the ADF members under their care. The project also aims to help Defence empower current serving members to more proactively take charge of their own mental fitness.
Acting Director of Health
Research Helen Benassi said many ADF members preferred to manage their own mental health, at least in the first instance.
“We want to know how they do this and what resources we could provide to support them,” she said.
It only takes about 10 minutes to conduct the online interview.
To learn more and participate, visit the WATCH project at www.phoenixaustralia.org/expertise/research/current-treatment-trials/watch-study/
Volunteers sought for wellbeing research
The inaugural Head of Defence Space Division, AVM Cath Roberts, with an engineering model of the M2 CubeSat at the University of NSW in Canberra.Photo: SGT Oliver Carter
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RCE 3May 27, 2021AIR F News
ADF plays crucial role in rescue of fishermenLEUT Geoff Long
THE ADF supported the rescue of 20 Indonesian fishermen in the Indian Ocean, 670nm off the coast of Western Australia.
The crew members of the stricken fishing vessel Bandar Nelayan were picked up by the Japanese com-mercial fishing vessel Fukuseki Maru No. 15 on May 15 following a mayday call that led to an international search effort.
The Indonesian fishermen had been clinging to their partially submerged vessel for a day in rough seas when they were found. The ADF deployed Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft to deliver life rafts to fishermen.
One of the injured fishermen was transferred to a Perth hospital by HMAS Anzac’s embarked MH-60R for urgent care.
Anzac, which had been diverted to the search area, rendezvoused with the Japanese vessel.
All 20 fishermen were transferred to Anzac by the ship’s rigid-hulled inflatable boat.
While all 20 fishermen returned negative COVID-19 test results, CO Anzac CMDR Brendan Horn said every precaution was taken to ensure the health of everyone on board Anzac.
“This includes separating the Indonesian fisher-men in their own accommodation area away from the majority of the crew and conducting on-board COVID-19 testing,” he said.
Images of the Indonesian vessel in distress as captured by an Air Force P-8A Poseidon.
AIR Force has deployed approxi-mately 50 aircraft and over 500
personnel to the Northern Territory for Exercise Arnhem Thunder.
As one of Air Force’s larg-est domestic training exercis-es for 2021, Arnhem Thunder provides important force gen-eration training, focusing on high-end collective training and involving multiple force element groups (FEGs).
Commander ACG AIRCDRE Tim Alsop said Arnhem Thunder focused on ACG’s interoperability with other FEGs – Air Mobility Group, Surveillance and Response Group, and Combat Support Group – in an offen-sive counter-air environment from a deployed location.
“Exposure to large-scale, multi-FEG scenarios in an away-base environment is of vital importance to the train-ing outcomes of all elements
across Air Force,” AIRCDRE Alsop said.
“Operating out of RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal, Exercise Arnhem Thunder provides an excellent venue for cross-FEG interoper-ability, high-end air power missions, as well as airbase activation in an austere envi-ronment.
“The exercise will begin with force integration training and large force employment scenarios, followed by a forward operating base being activated by a contingency response squadron and other combat support elements.
“Collective training for missions such as this must be routinely practised so that Air Force is ready to respond to the defence of Australia when required.
“We are all very excited about being in the Top End to carry out our training and I thank the local community for their support.”
Arnhem Thunder is being conducted from RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal from May 17 to June 15 and will utilise the Mount Bundey Training Area, and Delamere Air Weapons Range.
Aircraft deployed to the exercise include the F-35A Lightning II, F/A-18F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, F/A-18A/B Hornet, Hawk 127, C-130J Hercules, C-17A Globemaster, C-27J Spartan, KC-30A multi-role tanker transport, and E-7A Wedgetail.
Exercise Arnhem Thunder will see the F-35A Lightning II operate out of RAAF Base Darwin for the first time.
Defence extends its sin-cere thanks and appreciation to the people of Darwin, Katherine and the wider Northern Territory commu-nity for their goodwill and continued support for impor-tant training exercises such as this.
Straight to the Top End
Exercise Arnhem Thunder offers a unique training experience, FLTLT Robert Cochran writes.
Air Force 3SQN F-35A Pilot FLTLT Daniel in his F-35A Lightning II during Exercise Arnhem Thunder.Photos: LAC Stewart Gould
Above: FLTLT Daniel suits up before a mission.Right: Armament technicians load up an F-35A Lightning II with GBU-31 bombs into the weapons bay.
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RECONCILIATION takes action and that was the focus for the RAAF Base Richmond yarning circle held for National Reconciliation Week 2021.
Reconciliation Week will run from May 27 to June 3 and this year’s theme is “More than a word”.
This concept was discussed in the RAAF Base Richmond yarning circle by a small group of Indigenous and non-Indig-enous aviators who shared their thoughts on what reconcilia-tion meant to them.
Officer Commanding Air Lift Systems Program Office, GPCAPT James Badgery said to move forward, we must acknowledge our collective history.
“Reconciliation is as much about understanding our past so that we know where we are going into the future,” GPCAPT Badgery said.
“One of my fondest memories was travelling across Australia with my family and speaking to an Elder in the Gibson Desert about where she came from and the stories of the land.
“She was one of the last remaining from her tribe and she was sad that some her families experiences were going to be lost. She shared stories with me, and my kids – and I felt a real sense of ownership of her history.
“As a Defence Force, we’re fighting for that history, to learn from the past, not make the same mistakes and to make the future a better place than when we started.”
The yarning circle was established at Richmond in 2020, providing a venue for both Indigenous ceremonies and other events, as well as meetings and story-telling amongst the wider community on base.
22SQN Indigenous Liaison Officer FLTLT Tjapukai Shaw said he wanted others to feel comfortable to ask him ques-tions and to have open conversations which are important for reconciliation.
“For one of the first times, my Aboriginality brings capa-bility, it enhances people and our thinking, and our cultural intelligence,” FLTLT Shaw said.
“I get a sense sometimes that people don’t want to offend people – that element of ‘If I ask someone about this, am I going to offend someone?’ I think it’s really important to have these open conversations and open lines of communication just to let our people know, ‘If you want to know something, just come and ask’.
“I won’t take offence, that’s our role – our role is to edu-cate people, for everyone. We’re all learning from each other.”
Air Force activities that form part of the reconciliation journey includes community engagement with regional and remote Indigenous communities in the places our aircraft train, and role modelling through our Indigenous liaison officer network.
FLTLT Shaw said it was important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to see their faces reflected back on them from Air Force.
“I think it’s important that we allow for our people’s faces to be seen,” he said.
“Sometimes I think it’s hard to break that cycle. You need to see what you want to be – you can’t believe it until you see it.
“How many pilots came through after Top Gun because they wanted to be that? If we allow our people’s faces to be seen, that gives people a bit of hope.”
“We don’t have our ‘Top Gun’. Aboriginal people don’t have one. We need to change that narrative. We need to take active steps to do that.”
Place of understandingRAAF Base Richmond’s yarning circle provided an open forum to discuss National Reconciliation Week.
Everyone has something to bring to the table and if you don’t open up and allow people to come in, and want to know what people are like, nothing ever changes.
FROM THE YARNING CIRCLE
‘ Although I don’t identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, I feel like I can educate those around me who may not have the knowledge and education for reconcili-ation that is required in this country.
In this organisation, it’s the most valued that I’ve ever felt, and when I say that, I mean it’s the most valued I’ve felt in my Aboriginality.
22SQN Indigenous Liaison Officer FLTLT Tjapukai Shaw
‘ ‘Air Mobility Training and De-velopment Unit Loadmaster SGT James Lambeth
22SQN LACW Hayley Jamsek
Officer Commanding Air Lift Systems Program Office GPCAPT James Badgery talks with Indigenous and non-Indigenous aviators at RAAF Base Richmond’s yarning circle. Photo: CPL Dan Pinhorn
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RCE 5May 27, 2021AIR F News
No. 24 Squadron exercised its right to Freedom of Entry to Adelaide on May 7 to mark the 70th anniversary of the city giving the squadron permission to carry its name.
A special Indigenous ceremony was incorporated into the tradition, which dates back to medieval times.
This was the fourth time No. 24 (City of Adelaide) Squadron had exercised its Freedom of Entry to the city, which is the highest honour a city can bestow on a military unit.
CO 24SQN WGCDR Alison Tinker said the parade through the streets of Adelaide was a proud moment for the men and women of the squadron.
“Over the 100 years of the Air Force, 24 Squadron has existed for over 80 years and has been part of the Adelaide community for over 70 years,” WGCDR Tinker said.
“We are very honoured to be awarded the highest honour a city can confer on a military unit, noting there are only 10 squadrons around Australia that are ‘City of’ squadrons.
“Our relationship with Adelaide has continued to evolve, including when the AP-3C Orions arrived in South Australia – our unit became part of the special relationship the city has had with the Orion aircraft.
“This aspect was reflected by an AP-3C Orion doing a flypast over the march.”
Prior to the march, the Governor of South Australia Hieu Van Le reviewed the squadron.
During the march and upholding the ancient tradi-tion, South Australian Police Chief Superintendent Stuart McLean challenged 24SQN.
SA Police Chief Superintendent Stuart McLean challenges 24SQN (City of Adelaide) during the Freedom of Entry parade in Adelaide. Inset below left: RAAF Base Edinburgh ILO and Kaurna man FLTLT Steve Warrior greets the City of Adelaide Kaurna Custodian, Robert Taylor, during the parade. Photos: LAC Sam Price
A spectacular Freedom of Entry parade has been held in the SA capital, FLGOFF Suellen Heath writes.
Adelaide welcomes 24SQN
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A REUNION of veterans of 37SQN’s C-130 Hercules workforce will be held at RAAF Base Richmond on Friday, July 16.
Organised by the 37SQN Association, the function will celebrate 55 years of C-130 Hercules operations.
The C-130E Hercules was introduced into service in 37SQN in August 1966. The squadron flew the aircraft until that type’s retirement in 2000.
37SQN Hercules crews have supported operations in Vietnam, East Timor, and the Middle East; and conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. The reunion will include a barbe-cue and a tour of a C-130J Hercules, then an official func-tion at the Clarendon Tavern.
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The bond of brothers
Reunion for Hercules crewsCareer ‘about giving back to the community’
FLTLT Kate Davis and FLTLT Julia Ravell
AS PART of Air Force’s 100th birth-day, the identical twin sons of World War II pilot SQNLDR the late Gordon Orchard recently commemorated their father’s service with a tour of the air-craft type he flew on bombing raids against Japanese forces in the Pacific.
The B24 Liberator aircraft Chris and Jeremy toured is the only remain-
ing one of its type in the southern hemisphere, and is being restored by the Memorial Museum Committee in Werribee.
“Being able to get inside the B24, I thought of dad and all the crews, the job they did – the exhilaration, the cold, the fear, sometimes terror, and their relief each time they returned,” Chris said.
“I pondered what dad would have done had he visited here – his mind instantly transported back to 1945,
reliving aerial operations, old memo-ries re-surfacing after decades.
“It would have been highly evoca-tive, and probably accompanied by many tears.
“What the restoration team are doing in bringing the B24 back to life is a tremendous credit to them, and testament to the important role of the B24 Liberator and the Air Force in achieving victory in the Pacific.”
Jeremy added that walking in his father’s footsteps inside the restored
aircraft reminded him that Australia would not be the same without the Air Force.
“The B24 Liberator restoration perfectly exemplifies the great debt of gratitude we owe to the true heroes of World War II, the ones who did not return, but are forever remembered,” he said.
Although the brothers are associ-ated with Defence; Chris, in IT sup-port to logistics with CIOG at RAAF Base Williams and Jeremy as secretary
of the 458SQN Association, it was SQNLDR Orchard’s wish that none of his children pursue a career in the Air Force.
“Having lost his brother, Pilot Officer Norman Henry Orchard, a Lancaster bomber pilot with 463 RAAF Squadron, just weeks before Victory in Europe day, Dad didn’t want to lose any of his sons,” Chris said.
SQNLDR Orchard died in 1998, aged 79.
Jeremy, left, and Christopher Orchard at the B24 Liberator Memorial Museum. Their father, SQNLDR Gordon Orchard, flew a B24 during World War II.
FLTLT Julia Ravell
FLGOFF Ayah Khalid has lived in three countries, but has found her home in Air Force.
The 22-year-old dux of Coburg High School and aerospace engi-neering honours graduate said join-ing Air Force had given her life a significant purpose.
Not only could she strive to excel in her engineering career, she also had the opportunity to give something back to the community in the only country where she had felt welcome and at home.
FLGOFF Khalid lived in Kuwait until she was 11.
This was where her mother, a Lebanese woman who had studied a Bachelor of Business in Canberra, worked and became an Australian citizen and met her father, an Egyptian engineer work-ing in Kuwait.
The family moved back to Egypt in 2009, just before the period of unrest known as the Arab Spring that culminated in the military coup oust-ing Egypt’s democratically elected government.
“Our suburb was away from where all the chaos was going on, but I
understood to some extent what was happening when the police turned against the people,” FLGOFF Khalid said.
“It was pretty scary for a 13-year-old.
“I grew up in Kuwait and then we moved to Egypt.
“My life had been all over the place and I felt like I was an out-sider everywhere. Moving so much was unsettling and it was only when we came to Australia and I went through high school and university here that, for first time, I felt as though I belonged.
“Because of dad’s career, I’ve always wanted to be an engineer.
“But joining the Air Force is more than just about being able to work on state-of-the-art, fifth-generation aircraft; it’s about giving back to the community, a way of showing my appreciation about what this coun-try’s given to me.
“I’ve always admired and respected people in uniform for all the work they do for Australia.
“Officer Training School has really opened my mind about the history of the Air Force.
“I’m proud to be part of that. This really is my ideal job.”
FLGOFF Ayah Khalid with Leadership Reaction Course Team Member FLGOFF Clayton Wilson during a course at Officer Training School at RAAF Base East Sale.
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Keeping skills sharpAIR Force medical officers, nurses,
medical technicians and radiogra-phers are enhancing their clinical skills by treating patients at John
Hunter Hospital (JHH) emergency depart-ment.
No. 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron (2EHS) Williamtown clinical staff have been conducting routine placement under the Joint Health Command-led clinical placements deed arrangement with Hunter New England Local Health District.
Nursing Officer SQNLDR Jason Lynam said the placement was important for Air Force medical staff to maintain skills.
“Each single service health unit has been liaising directly with local facilities to coordinate placement opportunities for unit personnel,” SQNLDR Lynam said.
“It has been a valuable learning experi-ence for our clinical staff to consolidate their core skills, and enhance their clinical skills at JHH.”
JHH Nurse Educator Jeremy Pallas said the emergency department was one of the busiest in NSW.
“It gives our Defence colleagues a really good opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of acute presentations from trauma to pediatrics,” Mr Pallas said.
“JHH outpatients and our staff benefit from having exposure to a number of extra staff who are highly skilled in different areas.
“The clinical staff that come in from 2EHS with their deployment and exercise experience really complements the skillset we have got in JHH, which helps us deliver a more well-rounded treatment facility.”
2EHS hopes to continue strengthening its good working relationship with JHH and fur-ther develop large scale rehearsal and exer-cise opportunities to enhance preparedness with local emergency response agencies.
2EHS personnel have been learning at Newcastle’s John Hunter Hospital, FLGOFF Suellen Heath writes.
2EHS CO WGCDR Robyn Tatnell, presents JHH General Manager Leanne Johnson with a plaque in recognition of the community partnership.
2EHS Nursing Officer FLTLT Rebecca Elfes.
2EHS Medical Technicians CPL Stacey Lesbirel, main and bottom right, and LAC Christopher Griffiths taking part in the clinical placement.Photos: CPL Melina Young
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RCE 9May 27, 2021AIR F News
DEFENCE and Australian Signals Directorate will receive $44.6 billion fund-ing under the Federal
Government’s 2021-22 budget. More than $1 billion is ear-
marked for ASD, in line with the government’s commitment to expand cyber security capabilities.
Defence capability acquisition attracted the largest investment, with $15.8 billion set aside for purchas-ing military equipment in 2021-22, such as the F-35A Lightning II and air warfare destroyer programs, developing infrastructure and ICT projects.
Spending on the capability acqui-sition program is up by about $3 billion from the year before, with almost $86 billion from 2020-21 to 2024-25, or 36 per cent of the total Defence budget, allocated over this period.
A Middle East drawdown was the main contributor to reduced operations expenditure, from an estimated actual of $751 million
in 2020-21 to a budget estimate of $271.4 million in 2021-22.
The biggest savings will come from reduced costs of Middle East operations (Okra, Accordion and Highroad) and Operation COVID-19 Assist.
Minister for Defence Peter Dutton said the 2021-22 Budget was securing Australia’s recovery with renewed commitments to help Defence keep Australians safe, while protecting our national interests in a rapidly changing global environ-ment.
Government is continuing its policy of providing a 10-year fund-ing model for Defence, first outlined in DWP16.
Mr Dutton said this provided Defence and Australian defence industry with the continued planning certainty required to support ongo-ing critical Defence capability and creating Australian jobs.
The Budget papers can be seen at: budget.gov.au
Budget snapshot
The top-three Defence acquisition projects based on approved project expenditure budget 2021-22
AIR DOMAINAIR 6000 Phase 2A/B – New air combat capability
Military equipment acquisition: 72 x F-35A Lighting II (JSF): $15.631b. Other project inputs to capability: $1.727b. • RAAF Base Williamtown (NSW), Defence Establishment Myambat (NSW), RAAF Base Tindal (NT). • Forward operating bases at RAAF Bases Townsville (QLD),
Darwin (NT), Curtin (WA), Scherger (QLD), Learmonth (WA) and Pearce (WA).
LAND DOMAINLAND400 Phase 2 – mounted combat reconnaissance capability
Military equipment acquisition: 211 x Boxer 8x8 combat reconnaissance vehicles: $5.655b. Other project inputs to capability: $113m.
MARITIME DOMAINSEA 4000 Phase 3 – air warfare destroyer program
Military equipment acquisition: three Hobart Class air warfare destroyers: $9.094b.
Cost of current ADF operationsWith the announcement of drawing down in Middle East operations, the ADF maintains a robust presence in international operations:
Operations 2020-21 estimated actual $m 2021-22 budget estimate $m
Manitou 34.4 –Accordion 221.1 104.3Highroad 85.3 40.6Resolute 59.4 59.2Okra 215.0 67.2COVID-19 Assist 136.2 0.2
The Federal Government is committed to growing the Defence budget, PTE Jacob Joseph writes.
An Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot conducts pre-flight checks at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, during Exercise Lightning Spear.Photo: LACW Lara Pearce
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Leaders get the jab
DEFENCE leaders have received their first doses of COVID-19 vaccine and encouraged staff –
particularly those aged over 50 – to prepare for theirs.
Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty and CDF GEN Angus Campbell had their first course of the AstraZeneca vaccine at the Duntroon Health Centre, Canberra.
“Along with COVIDSafe behaviours, vaccination offers a vital additional layer of protection and I was pleased to receive the vaccination as soon as I was eli-gible,” GEN Campbell said.
“We are gradually securing our supply of AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines to achieve the Defence COVID-19 vaccine roll-out and I encourage all ADF and
APS personnel to take part in the rollout when they’re eligible.”
Defence has so far adminis-tered about 13,000 vaccines to high-priority groups to maintain readiness and capabilities.
“The best thing our Defence personnel can do is remain COVIDSafe, flexible and respon-sive until they are able to receive their vaccination,” GEN Campbell said.
Mr Moriarty encouraged all eligible ADF members and Defence public servants to pre-pare for their vaccinations.
“Our aim is to vaccinate the entire Defence workforce, both ADF and Defence civilians, as soon as we can,” Mr Moriarty said.
“Right now, the current focus is on having our managers and
commanders prepare their peo-ple and develop their vaccination priority lists.”
Joint Health Unit Commanding Officers will liaise with managers and commanders to determine priority groups, and arrange a time and place for per-sonnel to be vaccinated.
“Scheduling our people for vaccinations will depend on stock availability and the need to avoid wasting doses,” Mr Moriarty said.
A number of factors will deter-mine whether personnel receive Pfizer or AstraZeneca and this will be aligned with the latest clinical advice.
The Commander Defence COVID-19 Task Force, LTGEN John Frewen, and Surgeon General ADF RADM Sarah Sharkey also received their
doses of AstraZeneca at the new ACT Health Centre in the Duntroon Garrison.
“It was painless and the whole process was very simple,” LTGEN Frewen said.
“A quick visit is all that’s need-ed for you to protect yourself.
“For those younger than 50, Pfizer is the preferred vaccine. AstraZeneca is more widely available and informed consent is key to ensure the risks and ben-efits are well understood.”
RADM Sharkey said with some countries in the midst of devastating outbreaks of COVID-19, there was no room for com-placency.
“Maximum uptake of the vac-cines will help deliver maximum protection for individuals and the Australian community as a
whole,” RADM Sharkey said.“When enough people in
the community are vaccinated, it slows down the spread and reduces the severity of disease, giving the national health system time to respond to any outbreaks.
“High immunisation rates protect vulnerable people in our community, including those who cannot be vaccinated for what-ever reason.
“In these early stages of vac-cine roll-out, we are asking work units to develop vaccine priority lists to ensure we are vaccinat-ing to optimise and preserve Defence capability.”
For more information on the Defence COVID-19 vaccine rollout, visit the DRN pages of the Defence COVID-19 Taskforce or Joint Health Command
QUARANTINE GUIDANCETHE pandemic continues to evolve and Australia’s (and Defence’s) vaccine roll-out is progressing.
However, vaccinations do not yet remove the requirement for mandatory quarantine and the global situation remains challenging and dynamic. ADF members must remain exemplars of COVIDSafe behaviours. It is important that every Defence member and contractor undertaking Defence-sponsored travel continues to abide by the mandatory Commonwealth, state and territory quarantine requirements. Doing so ensures the health of our people and the wider community.
Joint Directive 07/2021 – Quarantine Arrangements for Incoming International Travel Into Australia by Defence Personnel – provides updated direction on quarantine arrangements for Defence personnel and contractors under-taking Defence-sponsored travel.
While essential travel for Defence officials and contractors is possible, it must align with Defence’s mission and contribute to advanc-ing our international relationships, as outlined in the 2020 Defence Strategic Update. Most importantly, no Defence travel will occur if it impacts on the return of Australians from over-seas.
CHANGES TO TRAVEL
DEFENCE has also updated its travel advice through Joint Directive 08/2021.
Members are still strongly encour-aged to take leave for respite – it is important for their own wellbeing, as well as the health of their teams and family.
This directive updates personnel on travel arrangements to countries with a reciprocal ‘travel bubble’, information about reporting and recording travel through the Defence Synchronisation Tool and changes to approval authorities for personal leave.
Broader international travel is severe-ly limited and probably will be for the foreseeable future. This directive aims to reiterate that any Defence-sponsored travel must be essential to Defence’s mission.
All Defence travel comes with an acceptance of risk – whether it is from short-notice border closures or changes to quarantine directions.
PREPARE YOUR PEOPLE NOW
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11
WGCDR Sue Yates
WORLD War II veteran George Lincoln has been presented with an Air Force 100th birthday commemorative memento as part of the centenary year project to honour Air Force’s centenar-ians.
Mr Lincoln turned 100 on February 25 and was presented with his memen-to on May 11.
He was born in the Sydney suburb of Marrickville and enlisted in the Air Force from his home at the nearby suburb of Arncliffe in October, 1942, at the age of 21.
During his six months of training at RAAF Base Point Cook he learned Morse code.
He was later posted to Western Australia where he served the remain-der of his time with the Air Force.
Mr Lincoln worked as a telephonist sending coded meteorological messag-es back to Perth from regions includ-ing Broome, Nookanbah near the Fitzroy Crossing, Potshot, Kalgoorlie and Forrest Airfield.
“I posted out of 327 Radar Unit to Nookanbah, which was a new aero-drome with only four signal operators making up a total of about 12 men,” Mr Lincoln said.
“We camped two miles from the Fitzroy River which was 250 miles inland from Broome and when it rained, the river flooded three miles wide.
“We had to erect tents up about two-to-three feet which helped a bit
An expert on the lines
and during the wet season. We would catch sawfish, which were as big as sharks, and the cooks would prepare and cook them for us.”
Mr Lincoln discharged from the Air Force in March 1946 as a leading aircraftman, having served his final six months at Forrest.
He went on to breed, train and race horses in Victoria – many winning at Mooney Valley Racing Club.
RAAF Base Williamtown SADFO GPCAPT Anthony Stainton presented Mr Lincoln with the commemorative memento in recognition of his service in a small private ceremony at Port
Macquarie, NSW, with his wife of 58 years, Ruth, his daughter, Catherine and close friends.
Mr Lincoln said he was surprised to be contacted to receive the memen-to.
“It was quite a surprise to receive the call from the Air Force as I haven’t
been actively engaged with the servic-es since I discharged in Moore Park, NSW, in 1946,” Mr Lincoln said.
GPCAPT Stainton said he was proud and privileged to make the pres-entations to past-serving centenarians who celebrate their birthday in Air Force’s centenary year.
RAAF Base Williamtown SADFO GPCAPT Anthony Stainton presents George Lincoln with a framed certificate and medals celebrating reaching 100 years of age.Photo: SGT David Gibbs
12 Exercise Black Dagger
EXERCISE Black Dagger happens twice a year to train Air Force and Army personnel to coordinate close air support for soldiers on the
ground. Held between May 3 and 14, Black
Dagger is the final activity for the students on No. 67 joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) course.
The exercise provides the students an opportunity to coordinate aircraft and ord-nance in live and simulated air to ground strikes.
4SQN CO WGCDR Sean Jobson said the exercise was a critical component of JTAC training as it consolidated everything the students had learnt throughout the five-week course.
“The JTACs executed all phases of a typical close air support mission; from the
planning and briefing to the controlling and reporting,” WGCDR Jobson said.
“Black Dagger is a live fire activity which ensures the JTACs are operationally ready to utilise air power in support of the joint force.
“On this course we had students from both Air Force and Army and they had the opportunity to control aircraft during sev-eral close air support scenarios.
“Supporting the exercise were F/A-18A/B aircraft from No. 75 Squadron, PC-21 forward air control aircraft from No. 4 Squadron, Tiger ARH from 1st Aviation Regiment as well as 81mm mortars from the 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment.”
As a joint fire observer from the 8th/12th Regiment, RAA, LBDR Aaron Oblea said the course had opened his eyes to the wider ADF.
“So far, I’ve been really happy with my achievements on the course and I am excited to apply what I have learnt to my role at Robertson Barracks, ultimately to support troops on the ground,” LBDR Oblea said.
“Having come from an artillery back-ground, learning to speak to aircraft meant I had to become more flexible, open and free when calling in support.
“Thanks to this course, I like to think that I can now speak two different lan-guages.”
Australia is one of 21 nations, mostly NATO-linked, which hold US JTAC train-ing accreditation via a Memorandum of Agreement with the Joint Fire Support Executive Steering Committee, intended to ensure commonality in JTAC tactics, tech-niques and procedures.
Tactical Air Control Party Instructor FLTLT Drew Hender with Air Surveillance Operator LAC Emily Smeaton, from No. 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit, in the field at the Delamere Air Weapons Range during Exercise Black Dagger.Photos: CPL Nicci Freeman
13May 27, 2021RCEAIR F
GROUND CONTROLExercise Black Dagger is held in the Northern Territory twice a year to give Air Force personnel vital training to support Army operations, FLTLT Georgina MacDonald writes.
Top: 75SQN Hornet A21-002 prepares to depart on a sortie out of RAAF Base
Tindal, in the Northern Territory. Above: Members
of the Mortar Platoon, 5th Battalion, The Royal
Australian Regiment, provide fire support at the
Delamere Air Weapons Range during the No. 67
JTAC course.
14 Features
Faster than a speeding bullet
University of Sydney Electronics Engineer Jack Liang trials a neuromorphic camera to capture shots fired by LAC Connor Fergusson at RAAF Base Richmond’s 25m weapons range. PHOTO: CPL Kylie Gibson
Air Force’s Jericho Smart Sensing Lab is helping capture data like never before, Samara Kitchener writes.
A SENSOR that has shown potential to measure the speed and predict the trajec-tory of incredibly fast-mov-
ing objects has been developed by the Jericho Smart Sensing Lab (JSSL) at the University of Sydney.
The MANTIS (Mutual-Axis Neuromorphic Twin Imaging System) prototype integrates a neuromorphic and traditional camera side by side to enable a direct comparison of the images.
“The neuromorphic sensor has exquisite sensing capabilities and can see what can’t be seen with traditional cameras,” Director of the University of Sydney Nano Institute Professor Ben Eggleton said.
“It invokes the idea of the eye in animals but has leading edge technol-ogy smarts built into it.”
The data generated by MANTIS is processed and analysed using machine-learning artificial intelligence giving the system a predictive element.
The JSSL team recently tested MANTIS at RAAF Base Richmond’s small arms range to capture imagery of small arms’ engagements, including rounds from a 9mm pistol and 5.56mm rounds from an F88.
MANTIS showed promising signs of being able to predict the trajectory and velocity of incredibly fast-moving objects.
MANTIS is the first prototype delivered to Air Force as the result of the partnership between the University of Sydney Nano Institute and Jericho Disruptive Innovation.
WGCDR Paul Hay, of Jericho Disruptive Innovation, said it was remarkable a prototype of this type and scale was developed in just three months, especially during COVID-19.
“The design process for MANTIS was a way of testing and evaluating how we can conduct rapid prototyping to
What does MANTIS stand for?
Mutual-Axis Neuromorphic Twin Imaging System.
What does neuromorphic mean?
Any large-scale system of integrated circuits that mimic neuro-biological architectures present in the nervous system.
How is a neuromorphic camera different to a traditional camera?
While a traditional camera is constrained by frame rates, each pixel in a neuromorphic camera functions independently and is always ‘on’. This means the imaging system is triggered by events. If it’s monitoring a static scene, the sensor sees noth-ing, and no data is generated. On the other hand, when there is an event, the neuromorphic sensor has much greater sensi-tivity, dynamic range and speed versus a traditional camera.
What is the JSSL?
Established in 2019, the Jericho Smart Sensing Lab is a lead-ing edge science design initiative embedded in the Nanosci-ence Hub at the University of Sydney sponsored by RAAF.
bring capabilities into service quickly,” WGCDR Hay said.
Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) was also involved in the collaboration, providing early guidance and input.
Vladimir Perejogin, of DSTG, said event-based sensors represented an affordable and innovative, yet highly capable and resilient electro-optic sensing technology that leveraged mil-lions of years of evolutionary process.
Despite being developed through an Air Force partnership, MANTIS
will be tested by all three services to explore how additional sensor diver-sity can provide Defence with an edge.
The 4kg small-form carry-on design allows the camera to be easily used on aircraft, ships and vehicles to detect challenging targets in any envi-ronment.
LCDR James Pattison, of Warfare Innovation Navy’s RAS-AI Team, attended the MANTIS demonstration.
“Navy is collaborating with Jericho Disruptive Innovation and the Jericho Smart Sensing Lab to investigate
neuromorphic sensing in the maritime domain, with potential benefits identi-fied for a range of use cases,” LCDR Pattison said.
Head of Air Force Capability AVM Cath Roberts also attended the demon-stration.
“There are many things that excite me about MANTIS,” AVM Roberts said. “The level of detail that it pro-vides and being able to track high-speed events is very impressive. It’s an amazing sensor fusion that has really strong applications across Defence.”
WGCDR Hay is looking forward to testing MANTIS in the next stage.
“We’ll evaluate it both in urban environments and out in the field over the next couple of months and provide feedback to the university. We’ll see where we take the design next, based on the learnings that we get from test-ing,” he said.
Future iterations of MANTIS could also see it combined with a robotic eye to allow for surveillance of large por-tions of airspace looking for air vehi-cles passively driving around.
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16 Features
A history of bravery
Reformation reconnects links to RAF missions
‘Strike and Return’ ... upholding a motto forged in warFLTLT Jessica Aldred
AVIATORS from 460SQN continue to honour a rich history as Bomber Com-mand’s June commemo-
rations approach.While many have seen the
most iconic part of 460SQN his-tory – the Lancaster bomber ‘G-for-George’ at the Australian War Memorial – the squadron flew more than 6000 sorties over Europe in both Wellington and Lancaster bombers from its for-
mation on November 15, 1941, until its disbandment in October, 1945. Re-formed on July 2, 2010, 460SQN is now Air Force’s target intelligence centre of excellence staffed almost entirely by intel-ligence officers and air intelligence analysts.
Reflecting on the squad-ron’s rich heritage, CO WGCDR Anthony Cullen said it continued to uphold the WWII motto of ‘Strike and Return’.
“As a unit, we are committed to remembering that rich history,” WGCDR Cullen said.
Each year, 460SQN par-ticipated in a number of activities, including the Bomber Command wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, the 460SQN Veterans and Friends (V&F) wreath-laying ceremony in Sydney’s Martin Place, vari-ous Anzac Day marches across Australia and contributed a short article each quarter to the 460SQN V&F Group Bulletin.
In turn, the unit hosted mem-bers of 460SQN’s veteran com-munity to participate in the annual reformation dinner in Canberra.
These activities allowed the aviators of 460SQN to maintain a deeply personal connection to the past.
In its service to Bomber Command, 460SQN achieved the highest number of missions of any Australian bomber squadron and dropped more tonnage of bombs than any other unit in RAF Bomber Command.
This dedication came at a cost. In 460SQN alone, 11 per cent died on their first operation with a total of 1018 combat deaths and 188 aircraft lost.
WGCDR Cullen said he was deeply proud to lead a squadron with such a rich heritage.
“As an enthusiast of Air Force history, I have spent time over the years staring up at ‘G-for-George’ in the Australian War Memorial,” he said.
“Knowing the linkage of this air-craft to No. 460 Squadron, it was humbling when I took command of this very same unit in November last year.”
460SQN aviators will participate in Bomber Command commemo-rations in Canberra on June 6.
Eamon Hamilton
TTHE return of 464SQN to Air Force has revived a unit with a brief but important connection to RAF Bomber
Command.Whereas many squadrons under
RAF Bomber Command flew their missions at night, 464SQN’s efforts were largely conducted by daylight.
In January 2021, 464SQN was re-established at RAAF Base Glenbrook under the responsibility of Air Warfare Centre, and is focused on delivering public affairs support to Defence.
WGCDR Fiona Van Der Snoek is the squadron’s first CO in more than 70 years, and is proud of the unit’s origins and heritage in the war.
“Our squadron’s role today means that many of our personnel are natural storytellers, so we’re all keenly aware of our history, heritage, and contribu-tion under RAF Bomber Command,” WGCDR Van Der Snoek said.
“It was our establishment under RAF Bomber Command in September 1942 that created our identity and many of our values we continue today. Throughout the war, No. 464 Squadron worked alongside other Commonwealth squadrons, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, team-work, and coordination in support of a joint force.”
Or ig ina l ly equ ipped wi th Lockheed Ventura light bomb-ers, 464SQN’s first major raid was Operation Oyster on December 6, 1942.
Targeting Philips radio valve fac-tory in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, Operation Oyster involved several Commonwealth squadrons within RAF Bomber Command.
“ W h e r e a s R A F B o m b e r Command is synonymous with night-time raids mounted from high-er altitudes, Operation Oyster was conducted at low level and in day-light,” WGCDR Van Der Snoek said.
“A striking force of more than 90 light and medium bombers from RAF Bomber Command achieved surprise and accuracy at the target, delivering more than 60 tonnes of bombs. 464 Squadron sadly lost three aircraft and many of these crew on board during the raid.”
The damage to the Philips fac-tory caused a major interruption to the supply of radio valves used by German forces. The raid’s timing hit German forces as they reeled from defeats in North Africa and on the Eastern Front.
464SQN’s time under RAF Bomber Command concluded in June 1943, when it was transferred under the control of the Second Tactical Air Force. From August 1943, 464SQN re-equipped with the DeHavilland Mosquito, a fighter-bomber that would lead the unit to be nicknamed ‘Gestapo Hunters’.
464SQN carries Battle Honours for Fortress Europe 1940-1944 from its time under RAF Bomber Command control.
464SQN aviators will participate in Bomber Command commemora-tions around Australia in May and June.
On June 2, the Last Post ceremo-ny at the Australian War Memorial will pay tribute to 464SQN aviator SGT Mervyn Lionel Vivian Hass.
When proud heritage meets modernityFLTLT Jessica Aldred
CONTINUING to em-brace their Bomber Command heritage 79 years on is important
to the ADF’s premier defensive cyber unit, 462SQN.
First formed in September, 1942, in Egypt, 462SQN flew Halifax B Mk II heavy bombers on long range missions in the Mediterranean – with battle hon-ours including El Alamein, Egypt, Libya, North Africa and Sicily among others.
Re-designated as an Australian heavy bomber squad-ron in 1944, their new and more reliable Halifax B Mk III heavy bombers were modified with electronic countermeasures to conduct ‘spoof’ raids, deceiv-ing German air defences of the main raid being carried out by other Bomber Command aircraft. As additional countermeasures were developed, 462SQN pro-vided close cover by jamming enemy communications and radars.
Re-formed in April, 2005, the modern-day 462SQN is respon-sible for countering the cyber threat to the Air Force.
462SQN CO WGCDR Duncan Scott said it was an
honour and a privilege to com-mand a squadron with Bomber Command heritage, especially in the 100th year of the Air Force.
“Our squadron has totally embraced the legacy of a squad-ron that performed such selfless missions during WWII, with the squadron patch a reminder of our heritage with its three verti-cal yellow stripes that were located on the Halifax Bomber tail, and the red Z5 squadron identification code on the body of the aircraft,” WGCDR Scott said.
462SQN’S operations in WWII were not without cost – 131 aviators made the ultimate sacrifice and 44 aircraft were lost.
Today’s 462SQN has received widespread recognition for its effectiveness and transfor-mation with a resilient defensive cyber capability a critical ele-ment of the Defence Strategic Update and Air Force Strategy.
Wing Commander Scott said all squadron members are encouraged to understand and embrace the 462SQN history as they drove the ADF cyber capa-bility forward.
462SQN aviators will par-ticipate in Bomber Command commemorations in Adelaide on June 5.
464SQN ground staff at work in England. Photo: Australian War Memorial
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RCE 17May 27, 2021AIR F Features
460SQN aviators with a Lancaster bomber. The squadron flew more than 6000 sorties over Europe in Wellington and Lancaster bombers between 1941 and 1945. Photo: Australian War Memorial
Aviators from 460SQN, 462SQN and 464SQN will come together with veterans in May and June to mark the 79th anniversary of Bomber Command.
18 Personnel
Name Unit Citation LevelSGT Simon Baldry 6SQN For outstanding performance as the No. 6 Squadron senior non-commissioned officer
continuous improvement team lead.Silver
SGT Brett Corbett 36SQN For outstanding performance as the C-l7A line maintenance planner at No. 36 Squadron. SilverSGT Jesse Duff HQACG For outstanding performance as the acting senior non-commissioned officer information
systems support at Headquarters Air Combat Group.Silver
FLTLT Stuart McInally
6SQN For outstanding performance as the aircraft maintenance officer at No. 6 Squadron. Silver
SQNLDR Darrell Moss
HQ42W For outstanding performance as the staff officer engineering at No. 42 Wing. Silver
FSGT Helen Russell AITU For outstanding performance as the trainee manager at the Air Intelligence Training Unit. SilverFSGT Lance Symonds
24SQN For outstanding performance as the senior non-commissioned officer physical training instructor at No. 24 Squadron.
Silver
LAC Dean Beeston 3AMES For exemplary performance as a supplier at No. 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron from April 16, 2018 to January 13, 2020.
Bronze
SQNLDR Gerard Bonaventura
452SQN For exemplary performance as the training commander at No. 452 Squadron Darwin Flight. Bronze
SGT Mathew Coubrough
383SQN For outstanding judgement, skills and dedication as the 383SQN airfield engineering works supervisor from January 2019 to August 2020.
Bronze
CPL Jed Crosby 23SQN For tireless and exemplary performance a reservist firefighter at No. 23 Squadron fire section. Bronze
SGT John Ellis 6SQN For exemplary performance as the No. 6 Squadron unit safety adviser. Bronze
FSGT James Gale 6SQN For exemplary performance as the senior non-commissioned officer maintenance coordinator at No. 6 Squadron. BronzeFLTLT Lisa Green HQAC For noteworthy performance as the aide de camp to Air Commander Australia. Bronze FSGT Matthew Harrison
6SQN For exemplary performance as the No. 6 Squadron unit maintenance quality representative. Bronze
LACW Natasha Morse
75SQN For exemplary performance as a member of the No. 75 Squadron logistics section Bronze
SGT Sarah-Jane Newell
HQAC Exemplary performance as a communication and information systems controller at No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron.
Bronze
LACW Montana Oliver
1CCS For exemplary performance as a communication and information systems controller at No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron.
Bronze
WOFF Tracey Weller 23SQN For exemplary performance as the officer in charge visits cell at RAAF Base Amberley. Bronze
Commendations
SQNLDR Bruce Chalmers
ABSEILING, exploring deep caves and testing yourself are things that a lot of us love to do for recreation but CPL Dean Donohue gets paid to do this as a job.
It’s a job description more aligned to adventure tourism, but CPL Donohue is a military skills instructor with the ADF at the RAAF Base East Sale Officer’s Training School and these types of activities are part of his normal working schedule.
“I’m passionate about adven-ture training. It allows people to build resilience and develop qualities for themselves,” CPL Donohue said.
“In fact, adventure training can sometimes be the biggest impact on people’s lives.
“A bit of hardship is a great way to take a look at yourself and how you deal with those things that are outside your com-fort zone.”
Air Force training philosophy is to take the qualities already possessed by recruits and build on them through instruction, ‘learning by doing’, coaching and mentoring.
Putting in an honest effort, making and learning from mis-takes and doing better next time are essential features of the training process.
“When recruits arrive, mili-tary skills instructors (MSI) are the first people they see,” CPL Donohue said.
“It’s my job as an MSI to pass on the Air Force customs and traditions that have built up over 100 years.
“That makes me proud to be in that position, preparing the next generation of aviators.
“MSIs need to be the exem-plar. We need to set that bar and set it very high. Drill, which is a part of recruit training, actually gets people working as a team.
“It lifts morale when the team is doing the same thing to the same standard at the same time.
“Drill prepares you for abseil-ing down a cliff face, exploring a deep cave and developing the confidence to take a chance to step outside your comfort zone.
“We all react positively to teamwork making us ready for the integrated defence force in which we will spend our careers in the ADF.”
The thrill of seeking adventure every day
CPL Dean Donohue is a MSI at RAAF Base East Sale.
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RCE 19May 27, 2021AIR F Personnel
AN Air Force flying instructor who was top of the class in a Master of Education aims to use the lessons he learned to
improve RAAF training.WGCDR Graham Williams took a
year out from his work at RAAF Base Pearce to study at the University of Western Australia and graduated in March as the valedictorian of his class.
He said the modern battlefield’s technological complexity and unpre-dictability presented opportunities for lower-ranked personnel to make tactical decisions with strategic implications.
Air Force training needed to prepare and develop aviators for this challenge.
“We have good training now, but I believe there are ways that we can develop personnel to gain the self-regulation and awareness that currently might only be achieved after years of service,” WGCDR Williams said.
“We can get them there more quickly with an open, collaborative and evidence-based approach to education and training.”
WGCDR Williams has a combined 28 years’ experience instructing in both the Royal Air Force and the RAAF.
He welcomed the opportunity for further study when Air Combat Group offered him a sabbatical.
“I was delighted to be able to work with students and teaching staff who
Instructor top of the class
Flying Instructor WGCDR Graham Williams delivers his valedictory address to fellow graduates at the University of Western Australia. Photo: University of Western Australia
One of our aviators has taken the opportunity for further study to great heights, FLTLT Julia Ravell writes.
‘I tried to identify lessons that
were relevant to Defence.– WGCDR Graham
Williams
challenged, informed and inspired me to look more deeply into many aspects of educational leadership, policy and cur-riculum development,” he said.
“It was an enormous privilege to be able to spend time in higher education among people who’ve spent their entire lives researching and imparting better ways to teach.
“Where possible, I tried to identify lessons that were relevant to Defence and applied to how we do business.”
WGCDR Williams intends to explore these ideas further, working within the Human Performance and Safety Directorate, after being invited by the University of Western Australia to pursue a PhD on the effectiveness of psychological skills in military flying training.
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MODERNISING
DEFENCE TRAVEL
20 Personnel
FLTLT Kate Davis
COMMUNICATION has been key throughout Staff Officer 2 Personnel SQNLDR Chris Luttrell’s 19 years of service in the Air Force.
He has served on four deploy-ments since 2015 and said staying connected with his wife, Naomi, and children, Lilly, Hudson and McKinley, while he was away was important.
“While unreliable internet could sometimes hamper weekend video chats with the kids, phone calls could be just as good for connecting with my family,” SQNLDR Luttrell said.
“We usually talked about what they did at school that week, their
homework, how the pets were doing, and what jobs they were helping mum with around the house.”
Outside the home, the kids also sent regular emails with the help of the Defence liaison officer at their school.
Mrs Luttrell said constant contact helped the kids a lot.
“We could still see him and com-municate regularly, and if they had questions he could answer them,” she said.
“It made them feel secure in that dad was away but hadn’t left.”
National Families Week was held from May 15-21 and was an opportu-nity to celebrate all families.
FLTLT Georgina MacDonald
WORKING with your partner can have some challenges, but for LACW Kate King and LAC Will Pinkerton, it was a refreshing experience.
Deployed on Operation COVID-19 Assist in Melbourne since April, the couple has always been deployed to separate locations.
With almost 12 years of service combined, the couple met while on posting to RAAF Base Glenbrook.
LAC Pinkerton said he appreciated the opportunity to deploy to Melbourne with his partner.
“I would say that we have been lucky to have such a sup-portive chain of command at the Air Warfare Centre,” LAC Pinkerton said.
“Having deployed apart over our careers, it is nice to be together during Operation COVID-19 Assist and see each other after our work shifts.
“I can truly say that stronger families lead to stronger com-munities.”
Growing up in Melbourne, the chance to get back to her hometown and work near family was eagerly snatched up by LACW King.
“Having my whole family live in Melbourne, we have been able to spend our down-time with them which has been a rewarding experience,” LACW King said.
“2020 was a really hard year for Will and I, and I was bare-ly able to see my family at all due to the extensive lockdowns.
“We have been able to spend our days off with them which has been really nice after barely seeing them in 2020.”
National Families Week was held from May 15-21 and aimed to promote and celebrate the family unit and the vital role it plays in shaping our children as they grow from infants to young adults.
United on deployment
Staying connected
LAC Will Pinkerton with LACW Kate King at the Avalon Air Show, Victoria.
SQNLDR Chris Luttrell with wife Naomi Luttrell and children Hudson, left, Lilly and McKinley.
Hamel Institute
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RCE 21May 27, 2021AIR F Personnel
NEW ADF accommodation assis-tance and contributions rates take effect on July 8, and will be reflected in members’ pay from July 22. This follows an annual review.
Changes to Service Residence and Rent Allowance contributions and charges have been adjusted in line with national changes in the broader rental market.
Other accommodation-related contributions and allowances have been adjusted using the Consumer Price Index and national average meal costs.
Member contributions for liv-ing-in accommodation for this year
have decreased by 1.4 per cent across the five levels of accommoda-tion and for all ranks.
For casual meal contribution rates, lunch will increase by 50 cents to $8.50 while the breakfast and dinner rate will remain the same at $5.50 and $7 respectively.
The discounted fortnightly meal charge, based on 10 days of casual meal charges over a fortnight, will increase by $5, from $205 to $210.
For more information, speak to your chain of command or visit the Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) at defence.gov.au/PayAndConditions/
Allowances set to change
Jacqui Payne
A FAMILY day was held at RAAF Base Williamtown on April 16 to say thanks to the families of personnel for their support.
OC 81 Wing GPCAPT Matt McCormack said the event, held dur-ing the NSW school holidays and hosted by three 81 Wing squadrons – Nos. 3, 77 and 2OCU – attracted about 1500 people and was an outstanding success.
“Squadron members wanted to say ‘thank you’ to their families who sup-port them throughout the year, and in particular, through the busy transition period from Hornet to F-35A air-
craft,” GPCAPT McCormack said.“The family members of 81 Wing
personnel were invited to tour the F-35A precinct, visit the base and squadrons, and offered an insight into their family members’ roles and place of work.
“Due to the stringent security requirements for the F-35A, families do not get the chance to see where their parent works.
“A three aircraft flypast and a brief flying display provided the wow factor for the day.
“Family days are an important part of RAAF heritage, and maybe we might inspire the next generation of Air Force members.”
Saying thanks
SGT Joshua Keith with his daughter Ava and son Jack in front of a Hawk 127 aircraft at the No. 81 Wing Family Day at RAAF Base Williamtown. Photos: CPL Melina Young
Mrs Lee-Ann Mitchell with her sons CPL William Mitchell, left, and SGT Robert Mitchell in front of an F-35A Lightning II aircraft.
Sisters Annie, 4 and Lanna, 8, enjoy the jumping castle at the family day.
Nate Milowski, 8, at the 2OCU merchandise stand during the family day.
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22 Sport
Waves of enjoyment
LCDR Jess Morris
FORMER world champion surfer Pam Burridge has helped ADF beginners hit the waves on the NSW south coast.
Burridge lent her skills to the ADF Surf Riders’ Association annu-al development camp between April 18 and 23. Twenty-five women from Air Force, Navy and Army took part.
Thanks to Burridge by the end of the first day, every person on the camp stood on their board and caught a wave.
AB Maddison Noakes said she enjoyed the camp.
“I was able to improve my surf-ing skills over the four days of surfing and this has helped me gain enough confidence to put my name down for the International Schools Surf Camp, which I will be compet-
ing in next week,” AB Noakes said.The event has become popular
among ADF women and has high-lighted the value of using sport as a means to bring women together.
Participants came for the oppor-tunity to learn to surf, but all agreed they left with much more than just improved water skills.
CPL Breanna Elston was so determined to be part of the event, she brought along her whole family, impressively managing her nine-month old daughter’s feeding rou-tine between the daily surf sessions – with the help of her husband.
“I absolutely loved the develop-ment camp and feel very lucky for being a part of it,” CPL Elston said.
All the participants attained a Surf Rescue certificate from Surfing NSW, aimed at improving in-water confidence.
ADF Women’s Surf Development Camp attendees prepare to paddle out at Narrawallee Beach at Ulladulla on the NSW south coast. Photo: LS Ryan Tascas
Pam Burridge teaches the pop-up technique to participants. Right: WOFF Renee Wood catches a wave.
OFFCDT Zara Noake
DESPITE its relative inexperience, the ADFA sailing team took out third place in the Sailing Champions League Asia Pacific finals in Newcastle last month.
The team included Air Force OFFCDT Marcus Livingstone, Navy MIDN Emily Kolokotas and Army OFFCDT Daniel Hughes.
OFFCDT Livingstone said the crew adapted to the challenges of the competition and quickly shrugged off its underdog status.
“I was stoked with how we went, especially on the last day when we went in as underdogs and were put in the same group as the eventual top-four for the compe-tition,” OFFCDT Livingstone said.
“We kept it really close challenging them all the way and were unlucky not to get a win in one of the races.”
Hosted by the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club and held in the Newcastle Harbour basin, the competi-tion provided excellent viewing for crowds and was streamed live by Down Under Sail.
Warm weather made for pleasant sailing but the light, variable winds proved challenging for all crews, including the ADFA team.
The crew competed against established sailing teams competitively selected to represent their state or club. Many of the crews included current Australian sailing team members, as well as national and world-ranked sailors.
MIDN Kolokotas said competing at an international regatta in front of a stadium crowd in her hometown was a great experience, while OFFCDT Hughes said the greatest challenge was going up against teams which raced together week-in week-out.
“The speed in which the team learnt the boat and how to work together to achieve the fastest speed pos-sible was amazing to be a part of,” OFFCDT Hughes said.
ADFA takes third place in Newcastle
The ADFA team on Newcastle Harbour.
RCE 23May 27, 2021AIR F Sport
GolfRiverina championshipsJune 3-4
Clay targetCoaching clinicWerribee VICJune 28-29
Lawn bowls
Bowls AustGold CoastJune 12-25
Running & athleticsBrisbane Marathon FestivalJune 5-6
City2Surf Sydney June 27
RowingAust MastersRamsay RegattaAdelaideMay 25-31
TriathlonDarwin Olympic, May 30Cairns Ironman,June 6
CyclingShimanto MTB GPTownsville June 19
Fox Super Flow TownsvilleJune 26
ParachutingIfl y Perth indoor tunnel campJune 8-12
Picton Starcrest, June 12VIC Indoor Championships, June 19
COMING UP IN JUNETo get involved email: [email protected]
LS Jayson Tufrey
TWELVE months between training sessions hasn’t dimin-ished the enthusiasm of the Australian Invictus Games The Hague 2020 wheelchair sports squads.From May 1-3, the teams attended a training camp at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation (SASR) in Narrabeen, NSW.
The focus of the camp was intensive training sessions for rugby and basketball.
Team coach WO Andrew Bertoncin said it was the first time in more than a year the team had trained together in an official capacity.
“The purpose of this camp is to bring the team together and re-boot their skills from where we last left off, pre-COVID, and move towards the competition in The Hague in 12 months’ time,” WO Bertoncin said.
“We also took the opportunity to check in on the com-petitors – some of them don’t get the opportunity to play their chosen sport often enough.
“To inject that passion for the sport again, and to start getting them to think about those things in which they can improve – that can only be for the betterment of the sport.”
WO Bertoncin said the squad wasn’t in too bad a posi-tion.
“They’ve just picked up from where they left off a year ago,” he said.
“The long wait, while hard on them – and they’ve all got their own stories about isolation and how they dealt with COVID – they have actually realised since being in camp how they enjoy being together. I think it’s reinvigor-ated them.
“As their coach, I’m liking what I’m seeing. It’s look-ing promising. Their attitude is awesome – there’s a few COVID bodies among the squad, which need a little work, but we’ve got 12 months.”
The intention is to conduct training camps for the other sports in the coming months before the whole team meets again at the SASR in November.
The Invictus Games The Hague 2020, which has already been postponed twice because of the Coronavirus pandemic, will now be held from April 16-22 next year.
Launched in 2014, the Invictus Games are an initia-tive of Prince Harry to use the power of sport to motivate recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding of the sacrifices made by the men and women who serve in defence of their nation.
Passion on the court
Australian Invictus Games The Hague 2020 competitor Pete Miller, right, tries to block Peter Brown as he shoots during a wheelchair basketball training session at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation in Narrabeen, NSW. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey
SPSP RTRTMay 27, 2021
Burridge coaches
ADFsurfers
Page 22
TIPS FROM THE CHAMP
Former world surfing champion Pam Burridge shares her knowledge of the waves with participants in the ADF women’s surf development camp at Narrawallee Beach at Ulladulla on the NSW south coast.Photo: LS Ryan Tascas
