Edition 1230 March 4, 2010

LCpl

Aar

on K

ime

BOOZENEARLYRUINEDMY LIFE

PAGE 2

NEW M3PACKSEXTRAPUNCH

PAGE 3

WAGONSPUT TO TEST IN VICTORIA

PAGE 7

HOME SAFEHOME SAFECapt Travis Peet, 1RAR, and Sarah Shucksmith share a tender hug at Townsville Airport on

Capt Peet’s return from Afghanistan. He was part of MRTF 2, which had one member – Pte Benjamin Ranaudo – killed and 26

wounded during its eight-month deployment.

MRTF 2 coverage: Pages 5, 13 and Centrepiece

Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

2 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

DirectorRod Horan: (02) 6265 4650

EditorialEditorDavid Edlington: (02) 6266 7609Deputy EditorSharon Palmer: (02) 6266 7612Reporters:Sgt Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614Sgt Brian Hartigan: (02) 6265 2151Cpl Zenith King: (02) 6266 7608Sydney photographer:Bill Cunneen: 0402 155 220

Contact usEmail: armynews@defencenews.gov.auFax: (02) 6265 6690Mail: The Editor, Army, R8-LG-038, Department of Defence, ACT 2600Web site: www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews

AdvertisingManagerTim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or 0414 552 662Email: advertising@defencenews.gov.au

SubscriptionsPhone: (02) 6266 7607Email: tdillon@defencenews.gov.au

Submission guidelinesArmy welcomes submissions of articles and photographs. Contributors should take note of the following guidelines:Articles: Must be Word documents and about 400 words. The story should cover the five Ws and one H – who, what, where, when, why and how. Avoid jargon and the overuse of acronyms. Always include the ranks, names and job titles of people mentioned in the article.Photographs: Must be sent electronically in a JPEG format. Set digital camera to highest quality setting so the photo will be printable. Every photo must be accompanied by details of who is pictured, what the event was, when and where the photo was taken and who took it.

DisclaimerArmy is published fortnightly by Defence Newspapers. It is printed under contract by Capital Fine Print. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Army. Every advertisement is subject to Directorate of Defence Newspapers approval and the Directorate of Defence Newspapers may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form which is not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence Newspapers. The fact that an advertisement is accepted for publication does not mean that the product or service has the endorsement of the Department of Defence or Army.

The Soldiers’ Newspaper

Face of Army

Valley duty: LCpl Aaron Kime in Afghanistan’s Mirabad Valley region during his service with MRTF 2. Photo by Sgt Mick Davis

By Capt Douglas McGuire

SGT ‘Dave’ finally realised he had a problem after a drunken dining-in night where he picked a fight with his adjutant, abused his CO and RSM, and stag-gered home to subject his wife to another night of fear and despair.

It was an alcohol-fuelled evening that would see the then 32-year-old seek help after 13 years of heavy drinking, which he believes would have eventually cost him his career – and probably his life.

At first it was only a desire to avoid looming disciplinary action that forced him to ask for support, after years of drunk driving, vio-lence and lies caught up with him.

Now a warrant officer – and sober for more than nine years – Dave said soldiers were at risk from peer pressure and a macho culture across society that viewed heavy drinking as a normal part of life.

“Years ago, when I finished the first month at Kapooka, we were taken out to ‘celebrate’ at a platoon function in a pub,” he said.

“The whole aim was to get totally blind. Corporals were forc-ing jugs of beer down our faces – they thought that the best way to reward us was by getting us drunk.

“I saw the same thing going on 22 years later – in an Army boozer just the other week. It was a dig-ger’s 18th birthday and his mates were getting him smashed.”

WO2 Dave said that although formally condoned, institutional-ised heavy drinking was to some extent a thing of the past, more needed to be done to help soldiers with a drinking problem.

“I managed to cover up my problem drinking for years in an environment where such behaviour was actually expected,” he said.

“I went to work drunk, but I hid it well. I would turn up for PT blot-to after drinking until 6am. In fact, you were a legend if you could turn up drunk and still do PT.”

He said he was promoted to sergeant despite his drinking and, while his mates would laugh at his behaviour when he was drunk, he lost his wife twice and eventually started to attract attention from senior people in the regiment.

“As far as I was concerned I didn’t have a problem, so I pushed them all away and denied that I really needed help.”

The night Dave had his last drink he behaved so badly he couldn’t avoid punishment.

“It was a dining-in night, and I was so drunk that I was abusing officers, abusing civilians and even had a go at the RSM.

“Then I went home, abused my

WHILE general perceptions are that consuming alcohol makes us feel good, it is indisputable that excessive and prolonged con-sumption can cause or contribute to life-threatening health problems.

Excessive or binge drinking on a single occasion can also be life-threatening as the consumer’s control of his or her physical and mental capacities are reduced.

Alcohol is a central-nerv-ous-system depressant and, as such, its effects progress through pleasant feelings of relaxation and diminished inhibitions through increasing loss of balance to nau-

sea and vomiting and, potentially, to unconsciousness, breathing dif-ficulties or even death.

Alcohol’s effects on the human body vary from person to person and are influenced by the consum-er’s sex, body size, age, experi-ence of drinking, genetics, nutrition and metabolism.

However, it is generally recom-mended that drinking more than two standard drinks every day can increase an individual’s risk of alcohol-related disease in the long term – and drinking more than four standard drinks on a single occa-

sion dramatically increases the risk of alcohol-related injury.

There are many sources of information with regards to the safe consumption of alcohol and support mechanisms designed to assist problem drinkers.

Visit the Joint Health Command web site on the intranet at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/vcdf/sites/DMHSF to seek information or help. The National Health and Medical Research Council’s web site is also an excellent source of information on the health issues associated with alcohol consump-tion – www.nhmrc.gov.au.

‘I would have ended up dead in the gutter’

wife, got some more booze and drove off and drank until I passed out. When I eventually got into bed, I tried to put my arms around my wife, but she said ‘I hate you’ and told me to leave in the morning.”

A call from a mate the next day revealed how much trouble he was in. Initially to avoid getting charged, he sought help from the base medical officer who referred him to a psychologist.

H e w a s s e n t t o A R E P – the Alcohol Rehabilitation and Education Program – which he credits with saving his life and career and helping him to become a more effective member of the ADF.

“I was going to lose everything – my wife, my job and probably my life. I would have ended up dead in a gutter somewhere.”

Dave was at AREP for six weeks but spent the first few weeks denying he needed to be there. “I thought senior NCOs, WOs and officers don’t have drinking prob-lems,” he said. “But the fact is, alcohol does not discriminate. It affects everyone if you abuse it, no matter who you are.”

A text message from a member of his platoon saying ‘I miss you’ proved to be the turning point.

“I dropped the phone, collapsed and cried. That was rock bottom.”

He said his wife backed him through his recovery and the people at AREP were fantastic.

“They educated me about who and what I am. I was going to lose everything, but I got it all back.”

WO2 Dave has a simple mes-sage for soldiers who drink heavily.

“Don’t look at the differences between my story and yours – look at the similarities.

“If you can identify with any-thing I have said, you might have a problem – and there is nothing wrong with asking for help.

“It will be hard, but it might save your career or even your life.”

WO2 Dave would like to see more structured support for sol-diers who complete the AREP pro-gram, similar to systems in place in the RAAF and RAN, and more training for senior NCOs to help soldiers who need it.

WO2 Dave started his warrant officer’s course exactly seven years after he had his last drink and his career is now back on track.

Editorial – Page 21

Heavy drinkers risk health

WO2 tells what would have happened if he did not stop drinking

Ease up: More than two standard drinks a day increase the risks of alcohol-related disease. Photo by Sgt Andrew Hetherington

DEFENCE officials say media reports that ADF personnel had been banned from storing semen before deployment were incorrect.

Commander Joint Health Maj-Gen Paul Alexander said ADF policy, introduced in March 2003, did provide for assisted reproductive services (ARS) to support families where there was

an underlying medical reason for infertility.

“This policy states that stand-ard medical services for the baseline investigation of infertil-ity will be provided to members at the ADF’s expense,” Maj-Gen Alexander said.

“With regard to specific ARS, those services associated with treatment covered by Medicare will be provided to the ADF

member at the ADF’s expense. This could include anaesthetic fees, hospital expenses, gynae-cologist fees – and semen storage where clinically warranted.

“Defence will cover both the Medicare fee and the gap for the specific ARS authorised by Joint Health Command.”

He said Defence would not, however, fund items not covered by Medicare.

In relation to storage of semen before operations, Australian Defence policy is the same as US and Canadian policy, which does not cover such procedures and storage at public expense.

“But, obviously, any mem-ber who wishes to store semen at their own expense before a deployment is free to do so,” Maj-Gen Alexander said.

No ban on reproductive option

Mention you saw this flyer prior to completing your initial contract and we’ll giveyou a choice of either a Free Nav Man C40 Portable GPS or a TeacPortable DVD Player when your new vehicle is delivered.

FleetNetwork

Acceleratesavings.

fleetnetwork.com.au

Call us on 1300 738 601

*To qualify for this offer you must mention this advert to Fleet Network, prior to completion of your initial contract.The offer is subject to Fleet Network’s terms and conditions. Check our website for details.

Vehicle salarypackaging.

Save now by salary sacrificing your next vehicle.

Limited

Offer*

Fleet Network Pty Ltd D/L No. 20462

lateralaspect.FNW1110

Reputation & ResultsTM

Freecall 1800 555 777www.slatergordon.com.au

Specialists in military compensation claims, reconsiderations

and appeals.

NEWS 3Army March 4, 2010

POLYESTER uniforms could be on the way out with Phase 2 of the Army’s Clothing Review about to begin.

RSM-A WO Stephen Ward said Phase 2 would look at ways to provide a modern uniform that retained Australian Army heritage while simplifying the uni-forms and accoutrements in use.

“Our current polyester uniform types are more than 30 years old and we want to move to a uniform that is contempo-rary in cut and style and uses modern materials,” WO Ward said.

“Phase 1 of the Army Clothing Review saw a number of clothing items already removed from Army’s inventory, but there is a lot more work to be done to comprehensively review our current bar-racks uniform requirements.

“Unashamedly, the main aim of Phase 1 was to look at ways to save money in barracks clothing so that sav-ings could be made immediately and redirected to areas where there was a need, such as field equipment, cold-weather and combat gear.”

He said Phase 2 would seek to devel-op a uniform that remained uniquely Australian with clear corps embellish-ments but was practical and made from modern materials.

“A Clothing Review Committee and the senior RSMs will undertake a series of focus groups in all regions within Forcomd and Socomd to gauge members’ opinions in relation to the broad design principles of a new uniform,” he said.

Focus groups to look at clothing

CA’s principles for clothing review:� Drive down costs and reduce DMO

burden.� Savings captured and returned to Army.� Army’s heritage must be maintained.� Must retain a look unique to the

Australian Army.� Effectively position Army’s brand.� Minimise financial impact on personnel.� Engage DMO, RAN, RAAF and others

where appropriate.� Retain significant or heritage items

(listed in forum survey booklets).

REVIEW’S AIMS

“An additional factor, of course, will be the requirement to meet our obliga-tions as an employer under OH&S leg-islation, particularly when it comes to exposure to the sun.

“These focus groups will be con-ducted during March, April and May and hopefully will involve about 20 per cent of all soldiers from private to WO2, lieu-tenant to major and across the full spec-trum of full-time and reserve units.”

A questionnaire booklet will enable feedback for later analysis.

“We are seeking opinions and ideas on matters to do with clothing items, accoutrements and heritage items, but only for representational dress, including mess dress, ceremonial uniforms from general-duty to parade ground, and bar-racks work dress,” WO Ward said.By Sgt Andrew Hetherington

SOLDIERS’ shoulders, backs and targeting skills will benefit from the purchase of a new model 84mm Carl Gustaf anti-armour weapon.

The $26 million contract includes the purchase of 437 of the M3 84mm weapons and an advanced sighting system, the AN/AS 13C (V) 3 Heavy Weapon Thermal Sight.

They will be used by regular infantry and special forces soldiers and also RAAF airfield defence guards.

This is the most advanced version of the 84mm anti-armour weapon, which first entered Army service in the 1960s.

The M3 is 4kg lighter than the Army’s current M2 model because of its composite barrel, which con-sists of a lightweight steel barrel-liner and carbon-fibre materials to withstand firing pressures.

Lt-Col Rick Mollmann, Project Director of Direct Fire Support Weapons Land 40-2, said the new sight would also make a difference.

M3 84mm Carl Gustaf� Weight 11kg (including bipod

mount and thermal sight) � There is no change to handling

drills or ammunition natures/ type as used on M2 model.

� The M3 sight weighs 1.77kg (with mission batteries) and pro-vides superior targeting capability under day, night and adverse weather conditions.

Weapon trial: A soldier lines up a target during testing of the M3 84mm Carl Gustaf.

Increase in firepower

“The new thermal sight can be used during the day, night or in adverse weather conditions, further enhancing soldier’s targeting capa-bilities,” Lt-Col Mollmann said

Before the decision was made to purchase the M3, a significant

amount of testing was conducted by 1RAR in February and March in 2008.

Tim Ef thymiou , Sys t ems Engineering Manager for the M3 project, fired the weapon during the trials and was impressed with its performance.

“It’s so light it’s like you are car-rying and using a heavy-barrelled sniper rifle,” Mr Efthymiou said.

Users can easily place their sight cross-hairs where they need the rounds to fall, using narrow and wide fields of view.

“During tes t ing the s ight enhanced the weapon so much it was 50 per cent more accurate compared to the M2 day sight,” Mr Efthymiou said.

“It increases the effective range of the weapon system and I have spoken to special forces soldiers who really liked using it with HE rounds.”

The sight provides video imagery of infra-red emissions.

First deliveries of the M3 are due in July and the introduction into service will be later this year.

FIRE FOR EFFECT

�������������������������������

�����������������������

�������������

����������������������������������������������������� ����������!�����"�������#

� �$�!������!���!�����������������������������������������!�����%& '

� ���(����)���(���*�������!�(����+�!���(�����������������

� �,���������������������������������"������

� �-����������������

� �����������������������

� ���������������������(�������!���������"�����������

� �.���������(�������/�����

�����������/

'�������0��"����������������"��������"����������������!���#

������������������������������������

�������������

����������

���

����!�"����������

�������������� ���� ������

� ������������#�����������$��%���������#�����$�����$

��#��#�&�������'�� ��(

1���������)�����2��������������

$���������#���������������������� �)��������������%�"�����"�(

�&&3�4&56���������#�"���������������� ������

4 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

THE lowering of the flags of 1RAR and 2RAR from the same flag station on February 14 marked the de-linking of Battle Group Lavarack (BGL).

BGL was created in June last year to unite the soldiers and force elements of both battalions and associated force elements not deployed on operations.

BGL HQ facilitated the preparation of soldiers from 1RAR, 2RAR and B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt for deployment or reinforcement to existing operations; the reintegration of more than 1000 personnel returning from deployments; and the repatriation and reha-bilitation of soldiers who returned from deployment for medical reasons.

It also provided welfare functions to the families of deployed personnel; provided almost 200 reinforcements

to the Army’s Ready Battle Group and north-Queensland-based Emergency Support Force; supported training activities Australia wide; and ensured the security and well-being of Coral, Samichon and Resolute Lines.

C O B G L M a j B e n McLennan said the battle group served as a “foot on the ground” for the deployed ele-ments of 1RAR and 2RAR.

Lt-Col Dave Smith, CO 2RAR, said the rear-details element “ensured that those of us deployed on operations could focus on the task at hand, secure in the knowl-edge that our families, our soldiers at home and our units were well looked after”.

Commander 3 Bde Brig Stuart Smith said the imprint left by the unit “will serve as a model for other units and formations as they prepare for future deployments”.

United under2 flags

Flag bearers: Maj Rob Wallace, 1RAR, and Maj Ben McLennan, 2RAR, display their unit flags following the de-linking of Battle Group Lavarack.

Crime doesn’t pay for ex-officerFORMER Army captain Shane Della-Vedova will pay back some of the $195,000 in superannuation contribu-tions made by the commonwealth.

Mr Della-Vedova is serving a 10-year prison sentence for stealing 10 M1 single-shot rocket launchers from the ADF.

The NSW Supreme Court’s ruling means the superannuation accrued

when the offences were committed in 2001-2003 will be paid back. The final amount will be set later this year.

Judge Ian Harrison said Mr Della-Vedova should “not be permitted to hold out one hand to receive his employer’s contributions to his super-annuation fund while simultaneously committing a fraud upon the employer with the other hand”.

PLANS to acquire seven CH-47F Chinooks at a cost of around $755m are closer to lift-off.

Defence Minister John Faulkner said the government had approved the details of the procurement announced in last year’s White Paper.

The new Chinooks would replace the existing fleet of six CH-47Ds and would “give the ADF a robust, deployable medi-um-lift helicopter capability out to 2040”, Senator Faulkner said.

The CH-47F’s improvements over the CH-47D include a strengthened airframe and digital systems that support safer flying.

Senator Faulkner said the new aircraft would be procured and maintained in the same broad configuration as US Army Chinooks. This would benefit the ADF in terms of spares, support, training and airworthiness.

The aircraft will be procured under Project Air 9000 Phase 5C. The first two are planned to enter service in 2014, with all seven in service by 2017.

“The new Australian Chinooks will also receive some additional ADF-specific equipment to meet certain opera-tional and safety requirements,” Senator Faulkner said.

Chinook purchase approved

NEWS 5Army March 4, 2010

THE welcome mat has been out in Townsville over the past few months for the return of 3 Bde personnel from operations around the globe.

MRTF 2 soldiers were the last to touch down after officially handing over to Mentoring Task Force 1 on February 14. The soldiers will be officially wel-comed back on parade at Lavarack Barracks on April 10.

Personnel who served with Security Detachment 15 in Baghdad, Force Communication Unit 2 in the MEAO, the ISF and Force Communication Element 2 in East Timor, and MRTF 2 in Afghanistan have been reunited with family and friends in joyous scenes.

3 Bde Commander Brig Stuart Smith said the brigade was working hard with agencies such as the Defence Community Organisation and the Veterans’ Affairs Department to support the reintegration of the soldiers into their workplace and families.

“Detailed briefings, counselling, workshops and leave will be a part of our approach,” Brig Smith said.

Significant achievements were made by Australian forces in all AOs. Mission roles and functions were diverse and sol-diers returned home with a wide range of operational experience.

For troops returning from East Timor, recognition came from the top. Defence Minister John Faulkner applauded the achievements of the returning person-nel in helping one of Australia’s closest neighbours.

“I congratulate the soldiers returning to Australia on the success of their mis-sion,” Senator Faulkner said.

“The improved security conditions that have emerged during the deploy-ment of these soldiers has enabled the ISF mission to evolve.”

East Timor President Jose Ramos Horta also praised the departing troops.

“Together we have been able to restore peace and security for the peo-ple who so much deserve it,” Dr Ramos Horta said.

This sentiment was shared by Pte Tim Carlton, who said he and his mates left

Many a homecoming

Honoured: East Timor President Jose Ramos Horta awards Pte Tobias Wagner his Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal at a ceremony in Dili (above). Photo by Cpl Fiona Parslow

Home: LCpl Clinton Maynard with his family, Ebony, Tran, Jaden, Bailey and Allie, on his return from Op Astute (right). Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

East Timor with a sense of achievement and fond memories of the people they had helped.

“I think the East Timorese people react very positively to the Australian forces. We are here to help get their coun-try back on their feet and I believe that is what we have done so they are very appreciative,” he said.

While Secdet worked as a tight forma-tion, the FCU deployed across the Middle East and Afghanistan and CO Lt-Col Warren Gould said he had to manage his team from near and far.

“The breadth of operational experi-ence on this deployment for the FCU 2 was enormous, from the headquarters supporting the Commander Joint Task Force to being present in the remotest patrol base in Afghanistan alongside sol-diers who patrolled outside the wire on a daily basis,” Lt-Col Gould said.

ARMYARMYSHOPSHOPARMYSHOP

Wholesale Prices Available to Corps, Units, Regiments, Organisations, Museums & Retailers.ADF, Navy, Army & Air Force Hundreds of other military branded products available.

SUPPORT ARMYSHOP - WE SUPPORT YOUARMYSHOP is the official shop for Army branded products

All profits go to the Army Relief Trust Fund to support our soldiersYour support makes all the difference The Army Relief Trust Fund

FYSHWICK SHOWROOM65 Kembla Street, Fyshwick, ACT

RMC DUNTROON SHOWROOMFraser Road, Duntroon

I’m an Australian SoldierI’m an Australian SoldierStubbie CoolerStubbie Cooler

Was $6.90 Was $6.90

Now $5.00Now $5.00

I’m an Australian SoldierStubbie Cooler

Was $6.90

Now $5.00

Army GymsacArmy Gymsac Was $10.90Was $10.90

Now $8.90Now $8.90

Army Gymsac Was $10.90

Now $8.90

Army SingletArmy Singlet Was $25.90 Was $25.90

Now $19.90Now $19.90

Army Singlet Was $25.90

Now $19.90

Army Cuff LinksArmy Cuff Links Were $10.50Were $10.50

Now $8.50Now $8.50

Army Cuff Links Were $10.90

Now $8.50

Army Surf HatArmy Surf Hat Was $19.90Was $19.90

Now $15.90Now $15.90

Army Surf Hat Was $19.90

Now $15.90

Army CoolerArmy Cooler Was $19.90Was $19.90

Now $14.90Now $14.90

Army Cooler Was $19.90

Now $14.90

Specials!Specials!Specials!

web: www.armyshop.com.aue-mail: sales@armyshop.com.au

ph: 02 6123 2960

6 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

TRUCKS competing in the medium to heavy capacity component of Project Land 121 have completed their testing phase in the tender process.

Twenty-four vehicles in five cat-egories were comprehensively tested by more than 60 Army drivers on public roads and military training areas over six months.

The medium/heavy component rep-resents about 2000 trucks and modules,

with tenderers asked to provide a range of platforms for evaluation.

Thales’ Bushmaster Utility, MAN Military Vehicle Systems Australia’s HX series and Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific’s Zetros and Actros series have been identified by Defence as the con-tenders to proceed to the next stage.

Phase 3 of Project Land 121 (Overlander) is the largest land project in the current Defence Capability Plan.

By Sgt Brian Hartigan

A GERMAN Army contingent travelled half way around the world in February to pit men and machines against the elements in the harshest envi-ronments they could find.

Arriving in Australia aboard two giant Russian Antanov An-124 cargo planes, the contingent brought a range of new vehicles and equipment to Australia to test them in hot, dry and humid summer conditions as part of the vehicles’ acceptance-into-service testing.

Some of the vehicles were so new they had less than one hour on their clocks after being delivered to the Antanovs direct from their assembly line.

Key among the vehicles being tested were two Boxer multi-role armoured vehicles – serial numbers 1 and 2 – similar in looks to an ASLAV, except 3m wide, 8m long and more than twice the weight of the Aussie vehicle.

Other machines were the smaller tracked Wiesel 2 command-post vehicle and a Bv 206 S command-post variant, as well as a Mikado UAV reconnaissance system.

More than 100 personnel from the German Army, its armaments procurement agency and German industry representatives deployed with the equipment for the tri-als that were scheduled to last more than a month.

The extreme hot and dry conditions at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia and hot, humid condi-tions near Townsville were thought to be sufficiently harsh climatic conditions to test the equipment.

German contingent spokesman Lt-Col Stefan Heydt said the trials were “meant to assess and analyse the systems’ key functions and performance under near-operational conditions”.

“Australia lent itself particularly to the project since it’s only here that the necessary climatic and near-oper-ational conditions in summer are encountered within reasonably close proximity to each other,” he said.

Lt-Col Heydt said extreme cold-weather testing would be conducted later in the year in Norway.

Climate suits Germans

Big wheels: Master Sergeant Rainer Janssen from the German Army shows Cfn Chris Wright, Cpl Darren Hann and LCpl Nathan Townley the finer points on a Boxer multi-role armoured vehicle.

Truck decision closer

1800 885 009enquiry@kobrashredders.com.au

�AUTOMATIC OIL ING DE VICE�COMPLIANT WITH THE DSM REQUIREMENTS

NEW CD / DVDCOMBI SHREDDER

At last a SCEC Endorsed shredder that can destroyCD’s, DVD’s, ID Badges and paper up to Top Secret...

THE NEW Kobra 400HS-COMBI

www.kobrashredders.com.au

NEWS 7Army March 4, 2010

By Sgt Andrew Hetherington

NINE Mercedes Benz G-Wagons are undergoing verification and validation testing at two locations in Victoria.

The vehicles, acquired on time under Overlander Project Land 121 Phase 3, are being tested at the Monegeetta proving ground for engine and driving evaluation and at Mercedes Benz in Mulgrave for static load carrying, cab configura-tion and ergonomic testing.

The ADF will acquire 1200 G-Wagons over the next three years to replace its 3900 Land Rovers.

Four of the six variants are cur-rently being tested – the 6x6 dual cab, 4x4 station wagon, 4x4 carryall ute and 6x6 cab chassis.

The nine vehicles arrived at Monegeetta in early February.

One of the test drivers at the Monegeetta proving ground, Adam Mitrevics, has driven the G-Wagon during current and previous testing.

“We’ve run in four of the vehi-cles for the manufacturer’s suggest-ed 1500km on first-class roads, not

G-Wagons put to test

stressing the engines,” Mr Mitrevics said.

He said soldiers should be lick-ing their lips in anticipation of the arrival of the vehicles at units.

“We’ve found them reliable and comfortable – there is no real comparison to the Land Rovers, as they have power steering, are auto-matic, have air conditioning and are very easy to drive,” he said. “They

also handle the rough terrain well because of their wide tyres.”

Defence Materiel Organisation G-Wagon Project Manager Robert Hudson said testing would conclude in late June. The vehicle design would then be “locked in” before the main production run.

“After June, soldiers will put the vehicles through their paces for two weeks at Puckapunyal,” he said.

An optional ballistic and blast protection kit for the G-Wagon will also be evaluated.

Mr Hudson said the G-Wagons were being built to high qual-ity standards by Mercedes in Graz, Austria. Specialist modules to be integrated on to the vehicles are being developed in Australia by Mercedes and Varley Engineering. This includes the new military com-munications and battle manage-ment system being acquired under Projects JP2072 and Land 75.

Mr Hudson said the first batch of G-Wagons would arrive between next February and March and would “be used for a comprehensive driver con-version training program in 2011”.

� The ADF will be the first G-Wagon user in the world to have the most modern Euro V emissions-compli-ant and fuel-efficient engines.

� The four-speed automatic trans-mission has a semi-automatic sports shift function, where drivers can change gears by moving the transmission lever up or down.

� It has independent diff locks, which can be changed in the cabin and on the move.

� The G-Wagon produces 135kW of power from its 3l, V6 turbo diesel engine, and 400Nm of torque.

TOP FEATURES

Restructure of skill gradesBy Sgt Dave Morley

AFTER more than two years in the making, major changes to RACT employment categories will take effect on March 18.

Assistant Employment Category Manager Capt Carl Edwards said the changes for the corps and soldiers would be widespread.

“A lot of it is to do with Land 121, Project Overlander, and other new capa-bilities,” he said.

“It’s about the restructuring of skill grades, insertion of new skill grades and advancing of skill grades.”

Capt Edwards said there would be no direct pay changes for ARA members.

“ARes members will benefit by the removal of discounted pay which will generally provide an increase in daily pay rates,” he said.

ECNs 109, 274 and 381 will be amal-gamated into one category now known as Driver Specialist ECN274 with 13 skill grades from ECN274-1 to ECN274-13.

Air Dispatcher ECN099 wi l l also acquire 13 skill grades from ECN099-1 to ECN099-13.

The Basic Parachute Course has been removed from the training continuum with further requirement to be used as a unit-needs course.

Operator Movements ECN035, Cargo Specialist ECN171 and Marine Specialist ECN218 have all had six skills grades added becoming ECN035-1 to

ECN035-6, ECN171-1 to ECN171-6 and ECN218-1 to ECN218-6.

The changes have been brought about by the introduction of a suite of new transport assets.

These include protected and unpro-tected fleets of road transport vehicles, the Kalmar container equipment, 90T cranes and landing craft for the Spanish-designed Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Docks.

Capt Edwards said all of this helped RACT to adapt to changes and provide an effective manoeuvrable fleet of assets.

More information on the changes is at: http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/sites/DWMA/comweb.asp?page=111264 or phone (02) 6055 4194.

Evaluation: A new G-Wagon is put through its paces.

Fleet Network Pty Ltd D/L No. 20462

Your Vehicle Salary Packaging Experts 1300 738 601

Pride in your colours?Hi Profile can put your

Company/corps/battalioncolours onto:

Call Col [the boss] on:

orjust and see

what we can do

� End of year / TOD commemorative

� Team shirts� Hats caps� Bags etc

07 3846 5455

google Hi Profile

Aust Army Approved Manufacturer

Ph: 07 3408 2444Fax: 07 3408 2679

email: unitplaques@bigpond.com

Over 25yrs of service to

Defence

Quality supplier Quality supplier of plaques, of plaques, trophies, trophies,

medallions, medallions, desk desk name-plates, name-plates,

glassware, glassware, hat hat badges, badges, general general

engravingengraving

Call John NOW

UNIT PLAQUESUNIT PLAQUES& TROPHIES& TROPHIES

By Sgt Andrew Hetherington

IT’S not often a musician blows someone else’s trumpet or wind instrument, but Musn Jeff Poole did just that when he played a cornet last officially used more than 90 years ago.

Musn Poole, Army Band Brisbane, played the Last Post during the reburi-als of 249 soldiers at Fromelles during January and February.

The instrument was first used by a stretcher bearer in the Australian 31st Bn band. Members of the band them-selves became casualties during the World War I battle.

Peter Nelson, a member of the 31st Bn Association whose grandfather served at Fromelles, purchased the cor-net on eBay and lent it to Musn Poole for the reburial services.

“The opportunity to return this item to a battlefield it was played on in 1916 and to have it returned to playing condition is priceless,” Musn Poole said.

The instrument was made in 1914 by Boosey & Sons in England and pre-sented to 31st Bn in August 1915 by a man named A.J. Cotton.

Before Musn Poole could play the

instrument correctly he had to perform some detailed maintenance.

“It was partially restored, but still had many air leaks and cracks in the brass tubing,” Musn Poole said.

“It looked its age, had many dents and showed considerable wear and tear, so I sealed the cracks with sili-cone and coated the slides and valves with vaseline to reduce leaks.”

This allowed him to play the notes of the Last Post with accuracy.

He said he was honoured and proud to be in Fromelles to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.

“This was an opportunity to pay my last respects to soldiers of the Great War, as members of my family and my wife’s family served in this area of France in World War I,” he said.

“It’s been a pleasure to return such an instrument to playing condition and play it again for men of its own battalion.”

The cornet was returned to Peter Nelson after the February services and Musn Poole hopes to play it again soon.

“Mr Nelson will hopefully loan it again to us in July for the final burial and after that we understand he plans to donate it to a museum in Townsville.”

8 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

Nostalgic return for old cornet

Moving moments: Musn Jeff Poole plays at the reburial of WWI soldiers at Fromelles (above).Photo by Alastair Miller

Historic: The cornet bought on eBay (inset) and lent to the Army for ceremonial duty at the reburial services. Photo by Chloe Wootten

Original band: 31st Bn Ragtime Band members (top right), one of whom is believed to have used the cornet during the battle of Fromelles.Photo courtesy AWM

�������������������������������������������������������� ����������������

���

������������

�������������

�����������������������

��������������������������������

�����������

��� �����������

��������� ����

�����������

����������������

��������������

����

�� �!�"#�

��$%!��&��'(�)*� ��

!���" �#$�����������#�����������

�%�

&���������'��������

�����

���� ����(

����� �������

������� ������������������ �����

����������������)���� �*��

��

�� ��������������������� ����

����� ���������+,����� �������

������ ��������

��������-����������� .�

$�����������������+�,������

������������,�/0&�1��!23�!

143�!0�56!%�-

��������������

�����

����������

���������������

������,���������������������

����.���,����������������.

/��

����������

+�������-�����

��0����������

��������������/������

��������+�����������������

���

������������������������1��

�����

������+2�

3�4+����+�����������

3�"���+�������

������������

3�5����������������+��

3�����/�������������

3�6������

��������

���� 3�7������.��������

3�����+��������������������

3�5��++������������

3����,�������

����

By Sgt Andrew Hetherington

THIS month 800 people will eagerly await DNA results to find out if they are related to any of the 250 soldiers whose remains were recovered from a World War I mass burial site at Fromelles in France.

Cpl Luke Grogan, the Pilbara Regt, had a mouth swab taken in December after he responded to a call for relatives of the missing soldiers to come forward for DNA testing.

“I’m definite my great, great uncle will be identified after my DNA sample is analysed,” Cpl Grogan said.

During his posting to ALTC last year, his RSM sent him a list of soldiers’ names which the Australian Fromelles Project Group had issued in its search for probable relatives.

“One of them was Sgt Vincent Michael Grogan, the same name of my great, great uncle, who was a machine gunner in the 60th Battalion killed in Fromelles on July 19, 1916,” he said.

Sgt Grogan, who was 18 when he died, lived at Koroit in Victoria and was a labourer before he joined the Army.

“Apparently he was shot in the head and killed instantly while he was sitting on a parapet.”

The war service of his relatives influenced Cpl Grogan to enlist.

“My mum said I wanted to join the Army from when I was three and after research-ing my extensive family military history it inspired me further,” he said.

This history extends back to the 1860s to a war in which Australians did not open-ly participate. Cpl Grogan’s great, great, great uncle Michael Vincent Grogan served with 26th Massachusetts Regiment in the American Civil War.

NEWS 9Army March 4, 2010

Vincent Michael GroganService number: 3114Rank: SergeantUnit: 60th Battalion (Infantry)Date of death: July 19, 1916Cause of death: Killed in actionCemetery or memorial details: VC Corner Australian Cemetery Memorial, Fromelles, FranceWar Grave Register notes: Son of John J. and Mary T. Grogan, of Bairnsdale, Victoria. Native of Koroit, Victoria. 18.Source AWM145 Roll of Honour cards

Feeling a special link

“He eventually settled in Sydney – still receiving a pension for his service in the Civil War – working in the Five Dock, Burwood area as a stonemason until he died in 1907,” Cpl Grogan said.

Cpl Grogan’s family did not expect to find any relatives who fought in WWI.

“Not much was spoken about it, though we knew we had many relatives in our family who served in WWII,” he said.

“Out of 11 boys in the family about 10 of them went to war and they all came back, which was a good omen for me. One of them was my grandfather, who was in the air force with 30 Sqn, which flew Beaufighters.”

If there is a DNA match, Cpl Grogan will relish the prospect of visiting Fromelles in July for the dedication of the new military cemetery. “If I can travel to Fromelles for the July service I will take as many great aunts or uncles I can find with me,” he said.

For details on the Fromelles project visit www.army.gov.au/fromelles

RELATIVE FACTS

Family pride: Cpl Luke Grogan and his dad, Steve, at Kapooka last year when Cpl Grogan was a recruit instructor. The family is awaiting the result of DNA tests to confirm their link to one of the soldiers whose remains were recovered from a mass grave at Fromelles.

A NEW monument unveiled at Bulimba Barracks “immortalises” RAEME’s 65-year presence at the Brisbane location.

The RAEME Association (Qld) organised the mon-ument that lists the 36 regular and reserve units that have served at the barracks since 1945.

Unit names feature on a bronze plaque attached to the sand-stone monument.

A ceremony to dedicate the monument was held in front of a crowd of 400 ex-mem-bers of RAEME and their families late last year.

Col Peter Snowdon (retd), RAEME Association (Qld), said the monument would be a permanent reminder of the dedica-tion and service shown by thousands of soldier tradesmen and women.

“It is appropriate that this monument has been erected now as RAEME units no longer exist as such and the Bulimba Barracks site is due to be closed in the next few years,” Col Snowdon said.

He said RAEME occupied the barracks in 1945 when “the Australian Army was handed the keys” by the US Army.

Grants from the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Suburban Initiative Fund and the Veterans’ Affairs Department, and donations from members of RAEME associations around the nation funded the monument.

10 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

THE retirement of the DHC-4 Caribou last November was not only the end of an era for the RAAF, it was a signifi-cant occasion for the Army, particu-larly members of 69 Ground Liaison Section and 1 Ground Liaison Group.

The Army used the Caribou as a light tactical transport aircraft for its ability to take off and land on short and unprepared airstrips.

During its 45 years of service, the air-craft operated in places such as Vietnam, PNG, East Timor and Solomon Islands.

The three staff members at 69 GL Sect, embedded with 38 Sqn in Townsville, worked with the Caribou over their careers and have a soft spot

for the aircraft. Former OC Maj Graeme Wren remembered working with the Caribou more than 32 years ago when he enlisted.

“I was a gunner in my early days before commissioning in 2002 and changing corps to infantry,” he said.

“I remember we conducted a low alti-tude parachute ejection system drop by Caribou with 105mm ammunition, which hadn’t been done in recent times.

“The Army relied upon the Caribous frequently before the advent of the Black Hawk when it was just the Caribous, C-130 and Iroquois.”

He said the Caribou had provided excellent service in support of the Army over many years and would be missed.

Caribou will be missed

Sad farewell: 1 Ground Liason Group members Capt Chris Mann, Maj Graeme Wren and WO2 Owen Trevorrow with one of the last Caribous at RAAF Base Townsville. Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

Monument to engineers

Corps beretsCORPS berets will be available for purchase from Clothing Stores, only while stocks exist.

Colour patchesMEMBERS are reminded that colour patches can be purchased from Arcade Embroidery (the authorised manufacturer) via their website at www.arcadeemb.com.au/defence

Made-to-measure uniformsMADE-to-measure uniforms will not be treated as a priority unless it meets the priority criteria. ADFA/RMC currently have precedence.

Defective clothingTO REPORT a defect against a clothing item, a RODUM must be submitted in addition to any unit promulgated instructions. A web user guide can be accessed at:http://vbmweb.sor.defence.gov.au/rodum/Documents/RODUM%20Web%20User%20Guide%20Ed16%20-%20Nov%2008.pdf

Your questionsDIRECT questions related to clothing entitlements, clothing prices or availability of clothing to WO2 Anthony Romkes at the Army Clothing Hotline on (03) 9282 6602 or email anthony.romkes@defence.gov.au.

CLOTHING UPDATE

Reminder: RAEME momument at Bulimba.

Retraining: SCdts Adam Grigg, Martin De Meter and Matthew Scattergood clean their weapons after a range practice at RMC. Photo by Cpl Zenith King

defcredit.com.au

Smooth sailing ahead with our great rate personal loan

Terms and conditions, fees and charges, and lending criteria apply. The terms and conditions, and comparison rate schedule are available at any Defcredit branch.

Enjoy more with a great rate and a choice of flexible payment options to suit your budget.

To apply, call 1800 033 139 or visit defcredit.com.au or your local Defcredit branch.

Def

ence

For

ce C

redi

t U

nion

Lim

ited

ABN

57

087

651

385

AFS

L 23

4582

D

EF19

60_A

AN

N (0

2/10

)

NEWS 11Army March 4, 2010

By Cpl Zenith King

THREE former JNCOs are in the third class at RMC after making the switch to become officers.

The officer cadets and more than 120 of their classmates began training at Duntroon on January 19.

SCdt Matthew Scattergood, a former lance corporal with 3RAR, served for 4½ years as an OR before making the decision to transfer.

He attributes his decision to time spent on a deployment to East Timor in 2008, where he was a section commander.

“I really enjoyed the command position with the challenges and responsibility of leading patrols,” SCdt Scattergood said. “I had a fantastic platoon commander in Timor and I thought why haven’t I given that a go? I didn’t want to sell myself short so I had a crack at it.”

To become officers the three men went through the same selection process as civilian applicants. They received no preferential treatment.

During his time as a lance bombadier at 20 STA Regt, SCdt Martin De Meter deployed to Iraq as a UAV mission commander conducting surveillance, reconnaissance and con-voy route clearance as a gunner.

He has not yet found the training difficult and relates it to what he did

on his recruit course. “We are basically doing Kapooka again and helping the new cadets who had nothing to do with the Army before coming to the col-lege,” he said.

As a bombadier at 16 AD Regt,

SCdt Adam Grigg served in Iraq as a detachment commander. “We’re expecting the training to pick up in the next six months, as all three of us are qualified to instruct on everything we have done so far,” SCdt Grigg said.

The former JNCOs agree any-one interested in becoming an officer should give it a go. “There are oppor-tunities available to you as an officer that you wouldn’t have as an OR,” SCdt Scattergood said. “Coming here

gives me the opportunity to be proac-tive and allows me to make the deci-sions to get the job done.”

On completion of the 18-month course the three men hope to be com-missioned as arms corps officers.

JNCOs switch roles

By Cpl Zenith King

A PERSONAL mission to “give some-thing back” to Ronald McDonald House in Sydney has raised $20,000 for the charity.

WO2s Quentin Stein, Shane McPhee and Mark Fisher and Capt Matt Dirago, all from 1/19RNSWR, completed the 231km Bushmen’s Rifles Charity Walk 4 Sick Kids late last year.

They raised funds for Ronald McDonald House, which provides vital support for WO2 Quentin Stein’s son, Jonah, who has a brain tumour.

“The support they provide to families of seriously ill children cannot be valued enough,” WO2 Stein said.

Starting in Orange, the four Army members walked for five days and raised money by visiting businesses and attract-ing donations from people they passed on the way.

They completed the walk at Sydney’s Westmead Hospital.

A support team accompanied the walkers, including Sgt David Flude and Pte Tara Gleeson.

The team would like to thank ADF personnel who donated to the cause.

When money walks

Finish line: 1/19RNSWR soldiers complete their 231km march.

NSW Branch (02) 9682 1788 vvfagran@bigpond.net.au

Newcastle (02) 4951 2666 nclvets@bigpond.net.au

QLD Nerang (07) 5578 2233 bestag33@netspace.net.au

Townsville (07) 4722 4655 vethelp@bigpond.com

ACT Branch (02) 6255 1599 vvfact@vvfact.org.au

VIC Branch (03) 5248 0996 bestav17@bigpond.com

SA Branch (08) 8296 2411 snafu@chariot.net.au

WA Branch (08) 94096682 vvppwabranch @iprimus.com.au

Tasmania (03) 6376 2804 petermackie@intas.net.au

CONTACT

Fast becoming the #1 tax agent for ADF members

Call 1300 76 35 75 24/7 or visit us online at

www.phatreturns.com.au

Defence Force tax specialists - We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities, including:

� Members who have served overseas, and/or have investment properties � Members who have fallen behind on lodging their tax returns

Maximum returns - We know all the specifi c deductions, so you get a great tax return every year!

Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment.

One tax agent - We are not limited by locality so you and your family don’t ever have to look for another tax agent again.

12 NEWS Army March 4, 2010

By Sgt Dave Morley

WHEN Maj Graham Docksey received his Federation Star for 40 years’ service in the mail six years ago he was “terribly dis-appointed”.

“As a former RSM I didn’t think that was the right way to reward service,” he said.

So when he was summoned to Canberra to receive his sec-ond Federation Star, for 45 years’ service, he was “very pleased the CA had taken on presenting them personally”. With him was Maj Chris Pyke, who received his 40-year Federation Star.

Maj Docksey enlisted on his 17th birthday on May 23, 1964, and served with 6RAR and 7RAR in Vietnam in 1966-67.

He was also an instructor in the Provost Corps (now Military Police) at the Holsworthy Military Corrective Establishment in 1968-70 and later served in 5RAR.

Maj Docksey finished his OR career as RSM of Logistic Command from 1988 to 1991 then commissioned in 1992.

He is the OC of Army History Unit at Bandiana and manager of the Army Museum Bandiana. His passion for military history is such that he has conducted bat-

tlefield tours of Gallipoli for 13 years.

He described his career as “an absolute adventure and very rewarding”.

Maj Pyke, a QUR instructor, joined the Citizen Military Force on March 2, 1966, aged 16.

“In those days they didn’t check too hard and if your father signed the form, you were right,” he said.

“I joined 31RQR as a digger and was commissioned as a 2Lt in March 1969.”

He felt honoured and privi-leged to be presented with his Federation Star by the CA.

“It was great that my wife could be there with me because she has been a great support to me during most of my 44 years in the Army,” he said.

Maj Pyke’s postings have included instructional positions at 11 Trg Gp, OCTU, LWC and 1 Trg Gp, as well as company commander and battalion 2IC at 9RQR.

He said he was still interest-ed in remaining in the Army and would even consider an overseas deployment if one was offered.

“I haven’t considered retiring and will stay on as long as I can still contribute,” he said.

IT wasn’t just boot scooters and busk-ers that attracted the attention of coun-try music fans at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival.

A Bushmaster from 12/16 Hunter River Lancers took part in the annual Cavalcade on January 23 with special guest James Blundell on board.

“It’s nice to be accepted here when I’m in town by the boys and the girls from the unit,” the musician said.

Before riding in the Bushmaster, Blundell appeared on local radio and played a shortened version of his song Ride into Town, a tribute to the 800 Light Horsemen who took part in the charge at Beersheba in 1917.

The song was officially launched at the 12/16HRL regimental dinner in August last year.

Capt Shane Green, 2IC Spt Sqn, 12/16HRL, said Ride into Town and an accompanying video were special to the regiment.

“The intent was to have a piece of music and a visual representation that is able to be a part of regimental history, to be enjoyed by current and ex-serving members and something the public can make sense of,” Capt Green said.

“If it inspires people to find out a lit-tle more about the charge at Beersheba, then we really achieved something.”

Lancers’ boot scootin’ Bushie

Long-serving starsRewarded: Maj Chris Pyke, left, and Major Graham Docksey, right, have their photo taken with CA Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie after being presented with the Federation Star.

ADF’s equity leadDEFENCE has become a founding member of a ground-breaking program that aims to make workplaces more responsive to the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the workforce. Pride in Diversity is an initiative aimed at supporting organisa-tions to provide LGBT employees with a framework of policies and practices that specifically support them. Former High Court judge Michael Kirby was the key-note speaker at the launch of the initiative in Sydney on February 10. The Australian Federal Police is one of the other foundation members. For more information visit www.prideindiversity.com.au

Medal for Korea THE Queen has approved the official regulations and design for the award of the Australian General Service Medal for Korea. The medal will be struck to recognise personnel who completed 30 days’ qualifying service on operations in South Korea or any location within 161km off the coast between July 28, 1953, to April 19, 1956. Applications for the medal should be sent to: Directorate of Honours and Awards, PO Box 7952, Canberra BC, ACT 2610. For more details visit http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/.

VCs on tourTHE Australian War Memorial’s collection of VCs from Gallipoli will tour the nation for the first time to com-memorate the 95th anniversary of the landing. From this month the medals of Cpl Alexander Burton, Cpl William Dunstan, Pte John Hamilton, LCpl Albert Jacka, LCpl Leonard Keysor, Capt Alfred Shout, Lt William Symons, 2Lt Hugo Throssell and Lt Frederick Tubb, will travel to WA, NT, SA, Victoria and Queensland.Seven of the nine VCs were awarded for bravery during the battle of Lone Pine on August 6-7, 1915. For more information visit www.awm.gov.au.

Blood challengeTHE planner of the ADF’s inaugural blood-donor chal-lenge hopes to build on the event this year. Maj Gary Schulz said many people “aren’t lucky enough to be as healthy as most service personnel and so therefore we have the ability to provide our liquid gold to help other people out”. The Air Force won the 2009 challenge, which attracted more than 1200 donors from Army, Navy and Air Force. Commander Joint Health Maj-Gen Paul Alexander said the ADF would stay involved and sup-port the blood drive as well as continuing to ensure the range of blood products available to deployed soldiers remained suitable.

IN BRIEF

Blundell said he was gratified “to get so much positive support from the regi-ment whose members have embraced me as their own”.

The musician has strong connec-tions to the ADF as he has entertained Australian troops in the Middle East, East Timor and Solomon Islands.

Beersheba ballad: James Blundell belts out Riding Into Town in the ABC Radio New England studio as Capt Shane Green watches and listens.

Phone QPS and see for yourself.You can have a great lifestyle and with a little commitment and the

right investment strategy create wealth and security for the long termNOW

PHONE NOW ON 1800 155 611

LOTTO WINNERS? QPS Investor10 years QPS Investor3 years5 investment houses 2 investment houses

We’re a and we use QPS Investment Group to purchasequality residential property in high capital growth areas.

QPS makes it easy. You can do the same.

Military family

QPS INVESTORS

you don’t have to be wealthy to invest...but you do have to invest to be wealthy!

We love dealing with QPS because:

QPS offers a Rent Protection Plan andleaseback options up to 15 years, givingus peace of mind.

QPS can also recommend reliablesolicitors for you.

QPS takes care of everything from theinitial purchase, including arranging thebest possible finance, plus all ongoingmanagement. It really is a set and forgetinvestment.

QPS gives us a free Quantity Surveyor’sReport (worth $600) and helps us toorganise our tax.

QPS sells properties in high capitalgrowth/low rent vacancy areas close toschools, transport and employment hubs.

QPS is a Corporate Member of the PropertyInvestment Professionals of Australia - theyare qualified Property Investment Advisors(QPIA ).®

email: qldps@bigpond.comwww.qldpropertysales.com.au

M A (Rick) O’Shea JP (QUAL) QPIA®

Managing Director QPS

Ex RAEME WO2

We’re

NO!NO!

WORLD NEWS 13 Army March 4, 2010

By Capt Al McPherson

MENTORING Task Force 1 took over from MRTF 2 during a transfer-of-author-ity parade at the multinational base at Tarin Kowt in Afghanistan on February 14.

In near zero temperatures, CO MRTF 2 Lt-Col Andrew Hocking and CO MTF 1 Lt-Col Jason Blain addressed troops on parade.

Representatives from Australian govern-ment agencies, the Afghan National Army (ANA), and the Dutch and US militaries attended.

Lt-Col Hocking said he would always be immensely proud of his soldiers and the sac-rifices they had made.

“I stood beside soldiers lying on the oper-ating table and what choked me up was the way they accepted their injuries,” he said.

“We wish MTF 1 luck and we know as fellow Australians you will do us proud.”

Major achievements during the MRTF 2 rotation included the expansion into Mirabad, ANA mentoring, and provision of safe and secure Afghan elections in Oruzgan province.

“Providing security in Mirabad allowed for development that will improve the lives of the local people, but most importantly we mentored and developed the ANA so that in future they may set the conditions for pros-perity for all Afghan people,” Lt-Col Hocking said.

Lt-Col Blain said MTF 1 aimed to con-tinue the great work and momentum of its predecessors.

“We will continue to enhance and expand the capability of the ANA through increased mentoring support, while also working with other Australian-government agencies in reconstruction and development efforts,” he said.

“We will also work closely with the Dutch and the Afghan governments on ini-tiatives and projects in Tarin Kowt, Chora, Baluchi and Mirabad to bring economic ben-efits to the people of Oruzgan.”

The MTF 1 rotation will mentor and part-ner components of the ANA 4th Bde until late 2010.

MRTF 2’s achievements – Pages 18-19

It’s over to you, MTF 1

Good luck: CO MTF 1 Lt-Col Jason Blain, left, and CO MTRF 2 Lt-Col Andrew Hocking wish each other well after the transfer of authority in Tarin Kowt. Photo by Sgt Mick Davis

14 WORLD NEWS Army March 4, 2010

By Capt Matt Moran

AFGHAN National Army engi-neers have been recognised for their work in Mirabad in Oruzgan province.

Maj Scott Davidson, who com-manded MRTF 2’s engineer squad-ron, attended a parade in December to mark their achievements.

“A platoon of ANA engineers worked with our Australian squad-ron to build Patrol Base Wali in Mirabad. The Afghan engineers worked hand-in-hand with the Aussie engineers and gained a lot of skills in vertical construction,” Maj Davidson said.

“At the start of the job we pro-vided close supervision in carpen-try and basic construction, but by the end I would just allocate tasks to the ANA Platoon Commander and he would organise his squads to get those jobs done, including building a basic mosque, kitchen and strong points.”

During the parade, which was also attended by ANA commanders and Dutch forces, Maj Davidson presented the ANA engineers with certificates detailing the competen-cies they had attained.

“The development in skills and teamwork shown by the ANA engi-neers during this period was

excellent. They also endeared themselves to the local nationals who live around the base,” Maj Davidson said.

“Through their own initiative, they built a footbridge for the local community, which displayed a good understanding of the hearts-and-minds aspect of fighting a counter insurgency.”

The base, which is east of Tarin Kowt, has helped stabilise the area and given the ANA and ISAF forces a permanent presence in Mirabad.

“It’s important to acknowl-edge that the ANA engineers were not just out there to develop their skills. They were an integral part of our team and the patrol base construction would not have been possible without their work,” Maj Davidson said.

Sgt Malcolm Hughson from the OMLT helped train the ANA engineers. “The ANA did all sorts of jobs that helped build the base faster and it gave them some valu-able experience,” he said.

“They constructed ent i re buildings. They did a lot of car-pentry work, sand-bagging, they made their own mud bricks, and a couple of them even assisted the Australian plumbers and electricians.”

Impressed: Maj Scott Davidson, who commanded MRTF 2’s engineer squadron, looks on (above) as the ANA conducts a parade; and an ANA soldier is congratulated by senior officers after receiving a competency certificate (left).Photos by Sgt Mick Davis

Tick for Afghans

PLANNING FOR DISASTERSHEALTH SUPPORTInc Victorian Bushfire 2009 Experience

WHEN Saturday, 20 March 2010

WHERE Victoria Barracks, St Kilda Road, Melbourne

WHO Tri-Service Personnel of all ranks, Defence Civilian Health Personnel, andCivilian Health Personnel.

REGISTRATION Registration is now FREERegistrations close 12 March 2010Note: Information for pre conference function on Friday 19 March supplied with registration package.

ENQUIRIES Captain Peter RogersTelephone: 0419 341 063Email: peter.rogers@defence.gov.au

Many interesting presentations in relation to experiences and lessons learnt from health support to recent disasters.

Southern Health Services Conference is proudly supported by Defence Reserves Support.

For further information:Call 1800 803 485 or visit www.defence.gov.au/reserves

Australia’s Reserve Forces

AP

Accredited SpecialistPersonal Injury Law

MilitaryMilitaryCompensationCompensation

Need Help?Need Help?

Advice?Advice?

Call Call Max EmanuelMax Emanuel

02 6257 150002 6257 1500www.emanuel.com.auwww.emanuel.com.aumax@emanuel.com.aumax@emanuel.com.au

0418 474 3060418 474 306

WORLD NEWS 15Army March 4, 2010

THE Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) with their Afghan partner force has facilitated a major gathering (shura) of village elders and religious leaders in Chenartu, north-east of Tarin Kowt, as part of their focus on reaching out to Afghan com-munities across Oruzgan province.

During the meeting, village leaders and repre-sentatives were consulted to gain an understanding from the community of their key needs and ideas for development proposals. With a force including ADF medics and coalition aid agency representatives (who work closely with AusAID staff in Oruzgan), SOTG explored all opportunities to engage the community.

CO of SOTG, whose name can not be disclosed for security reasons, said: “We continue to reap the significant benefits of our combined operations with our Afghan partners, particularly when engaging the local population.

“Conducting these operations in close cooperation with our partner force allows us greater clarity and understanding of the community’s needs.”

Chief of Joint Operations Lt-Gen Mark Evans accompanied by commander of Australian forces in the Middle East Maj-Gen John Cantwell witnessed first-hand the population-centric operations con-ducted by SOTG soldiers. Both spoke with Chenartu locals participating in the shura, which was attended by 150 members of the community.

Lt-Gen Evans said the shura was a clear indica-tion there was strong support for the ISAF. “The large number of leaders and religious representatives here is an important sign that community confidence is growing. They said to me they were committed to the defeat of the Taliban.”

Alongside the shura, a clinic run by the special forces medics provided treatment to more than 200 people throughout the day. “These events are critical in gaining the trust of local communities,” SOTG CO said.

“To be able to sit among the people, to hear their problems and ideas for the future, to witness the com-munity spirit and the confidence of the locals, is to really appreciate there is significant progress being achieved in local communities having the confidence to take ownership of and address their current and future challenges.

“The work of the Australian forces continues to build strong relationships in Oruzgan and I am con-fident we are on track with our mentoring work and security operations, operating within the community and protecting the people from the fear and intimida-tion of the Taliban,” Lt-Gen Evans said at the end of his visit.

Meeting of mindful

Peaceful gathering: SOTG soldiers conduct a medical clinic for Chenartu villagers, while a shura goes on in the background.

What’s the prognosis?: A young child gazes intently as an SOTG medic listens to his heartbeat while, right, SOTG soldiers draw on old-fashioned horsepower to carry a water pump into a remote community.

AUSTRALIAN and Canadian Ambassadors to Afghanistan visited the Provincial Training Centre in Tarin Kowt last month to see where the AFP is working with their European and American colleagues in training Afghan National Police recruits.

The visit gave Ambassadors Paul Foley (Australia) and William Crosbie the chance to see what is being achieved in Oruzgan province and to exchange ideas and lessons on Ambassador Crosbie’s experiences of the Canadian-run Provincial Construction Team in Kandahar City.

The ambassadors also visited the Trade Training Centre in Oruzgan and received briefings from Australian, Dutch and American leaders on the work being achieved by ISAF in the province. They also attended a medal ceremony for outgoing mem-bers of MRTF 2.

Ambassadors’ Tarin Kowt tour

Well done: Ambassador Paul Foley congratulates Spr Andrew Hill after he received his medals at Camp Holland. Photo by Sgt Mick Davis

WHEN Pte Anthony Baker dropped out of school at 13 in his indig-enous community of Borroloola to become a ringer on cattle stations in the Northern Territory, he could never have imagined he would end up going to school at the prestigious St Joseph’s College in Sydney.

With his literacy comprehension standards measured to the equivalent of primary school, the 18-year-old had a poor foundation and few options for employment.

After graduating from last year’s seven-month pilot Defence Indigenous Development Program (DIDP) at the Katherine Rural College, the young soldier is getting a second shot at life through the ADF scholarships program. He started Year 10 this year.

“When I first heard about the DIDP, I knew this was my year. Something good was coming,” Pte Baker said when he accepted the student of merit award on graduation day last year.

DIDP liaison officer Maj John Lotu travelled across the Northern Territory and Kimberley region last year inter-viewing applicants like Pte Baker and said he remembers meeting the keen 17-year-old.

“You could tell there was something special about this kid and he proved us right,” Maj Lotu said.

“He was our youngest soldier on the program, but his maturity and presence of mind was well beyond his age.

“At every opportunity during the course work he took the initiative to help his older classmates in the VET compo-nents he had real life experience in.”

Pte Baker graduated with nine other soldiers in December last year from the program with improved language, litera-cy and numeracy skills and VET certifi-cations for better employability in both a civilian and Defence capacity.

The seven-month DIDP program also provided its graduates with leader-ship, self esteem, employment skills,

cross-cultural and military training. Rather than taking up the opportunity DIDP provided to become an Aboriginal Community Police Officer, Pte Baker attracted the attention of the Defence Indigenous Directorate, and was offered the chance to study at one of Australia’s top colleges under the ADF scholarships program for indigenous students.

Proud of its indigenous heritage, the ADF is offering its scholarship program through its recently developed Defence Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure the tradition of serving indigenous person-nel continues.

The ADF scholarships program cov-ers the educational and travel costs for its recipients to attend selected boarding colleges, public schools and Australian technical colleges.

For Pte Baker, this means three years of support through to the end of Year 12.

His situation is a familiar story for indigenous teens in remote NT com-munities. Many have simple dreams that their education standard and self confi-dence could never achieve.

Norforce’s Maj Lotu said he would like to see many more dreams recog-nised through such an important whole-of-government initiative as DIDP.

“Anthony is embarking on another journey that will hopefully create a path-way for other indigenous youth who have the drive to succeed but suffer the disadvantage of a poor education.” Maj Lotu said.

The recruitment process for reaching out to other indigenous youth through the 2010 DIDP has commenced in the communities. The program’s second year starts in May.

DIDP is a whole-of-government initiative between the Department of Defence, Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the NT Department of Education and Training.

Systems EngineeringIntroduction to Systems Engineering (Canb) .............................................................15 - 17 MarSystems Engineering Practice (Canb) ............18 - 19 MarRequirements Engineering.............................29 - 31 MarIntroduction to Systems Engineering (Syd) .......12 - 14 AprSystems Engineering Practice (Syd)................15 - 16 Apr

Most of these courses can be tailored for in-house delivery.

A number of our courses can also be used towards credit for eligible postgraduate programs.

For further information and details of over 70 courses available through UNSW@ADFA contact:

E: bsu@adfa.edu.auT: (02) 6268 8421

or go to the website below to download our brochure.

www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/bsu/courses

ManagementStrategic Human Resource Management and the High Performing Organisation .........................12 MarTesting Preparedness - Minimising the Risk through Exercise Management ...................... 17 - 18 MarOrganisational Resilience..................................... 7 - 8 Apr

Military SystemsIntroduction to Radar Systems ........................19 - 21 AprGPS & its Military Application .........................27 - 28 AprModern Military Navigation Systems..............27 - 29 Apr

Occupational Health and SafetyLaser Safety Introductory 1 Day & 4 Day (Melb) ............................................................. 22 - 25 Mar

Project ManagementRecovering Troubled Projects.......................... 15 - 16 MarIntroduction to Project Management............. 22 - 24 Mar

CRICOS Provider Number: 00100G · ETS 11291

UNSW@ADFA is a campus of the University of New South Wales and is located at the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra. UNSW@ADFA offers a range of postgraduate programs and Professional Education courses for the general community and Defence personnel. These courses provide stimulating learning and networking opportunities within a supportive environment.

Business Services

Professional Education Courses

Courses offered in March - April 2010:

16 FEATURES Army March 4, 2010

At 18 years of age Pte Anthony Baker will leave his remote community of Borroloola to start Year 10 at St Joseph’s College in Sydney, Gnr Shannon Joyce reports.

No horsing around

On a winner: Pte Anthony Baker, at left, discusses the horsemanship display for the DIDP graduation day with fellow Norforce soldiers and (inset) concentrates while on course. Photos by Gnr Shannon Joyce

18 CENTREPIECE Army March 4, 2010 19

AFTER more than eight months of intense operations, the 730 members of MRTF 2 can take time out to reflect on their achievements after transferring authority to the Mentoring Task Force 1 (MTF 1) on February 14.

A stronger Afghan National Army 4th Bde, a visible security presence for locals in Oruzgan province, education opportuni-ties for local children and a new medical centre are among the key successes for the Australian soldiers of MRTF 2.

The achievements were conducted against the backdrop of a threat level that saw the joint Afghan and Australian patrols respond to 43 IEDs, 27 indirect fire attacks and numerous armed contacts with the Taliban throughout MRTF 2’s deployment.

MRTF 2 CO Lt-Col Andrew Hocking praised his people who worked tirelessly during their deployment.

“Like most people in Australia, I’m extremely proud of the bravery and dedica-tion shown by my troops over the past eight months,” Lt-Col Hocking said.

“The MRTF’s Operational Mentor and Liaison Teams who have been mentoring the ANA provided highly effective joint patrols and, along with the newly established patrol bases, have offered greater security for locals in the Mirabad, Chora and Baluchi valleys.

“It has been a great privilege for everyone in the battle group to develop the capability

of the ANA and ultimately help the people of Oruzgan,” he said.

Among the many successes of MRTF 2 was the discovery of about 90 weapons and ammunition caches, which improved the safety of locals and caused disruption to Taliban insurgent attacks in the region.

As well as continuing the mentoring proc-ess MRTF 2 maintained the high tempo of reconstruction work set by their predeces-sors, which included the construction of a waste-management facility in Tarin Kowt, a boys’ high school and primary school, a med-ical centre and an all-weather river crossing.

Ongoing projects that will be managed by MTF 1 include the construction of girls’ high schools in Tarin Kowt and Malalai, and redevelopment of the Oruzgan Ministry of Energy and Water compound.

With the transfer of authority between the Australian task forces, they also took time to remember a fallen mate, Pte Benjamin Ranaudo, who was killed by an IED in July 2009. Twenty-nine MRTF 2 members were wounded in the course of operations.

With the handover complete, Lt-Col Hocking said his troops were looking for-ward to returning home.

“It’s now time for the battle group to remember our fallen, rest and rehabilitate with our families and, in time, prepare our-selves for any future challenges in the inter-est of our country.

“I wish the men and women of MTF 1 the best of luck.”

A BATTLE OF WILLSThe Mentoring Reconstruction Task Force 2 has just completed its deployment in Afghanistan. In that time, it continued the work MRTF 1 had started and furthered the drive to gain the trust of the Afghan people.

Stronger ties: An ANA soldier provides protection during a shura, which CO MRTF 2 Lt-Col Andrew Hocking addressed (inset) in the Mirabad Valley region.

Time’s up: The MRTF 2 flag is lowered at the handover parade to MTF 1 at the Multinational Base in Tarin Kowt.

School’s in: MRTF 2 engineers conduct surveying checks at a new girls’ high school construction site in TarinKowt after completing a boys high school in Tarin Kowt (inset).

On the beat: Soldiers patrol through the Dorafshan Rud in Tarin Kowt while (inset) Cpl Quin O’Connor and Pte Escher Ford protect the streets of Tarin Kowt.

Visible presence: WO2 Darren Murch befriends a local in the Mirabad Valley.

Joint projects: Capt Daniel Waugh inspects the progress of a

project with Tila Muhammad Hassan Zai, an Afghan engineer.

Photos: Sgt Mick Davis

PHONE TOLL FREE: 1300 637 568 TO SPEAK WITH ONE OF OUR TRAINED CONSULTANTS

Merlot Investments Australia is the only company in Australia that will:

�� Become your Tenant & pay your Rent for up to 9 years (giving you nil vacancy)

�� Become your dedicated Property Manager & pay for all your Routine Repairs & Maintenance for up to 9 years (giving you passive peace of mind)

�� Manage & ensure all your Tax Benefits are achieved (increasing your net income weekly)

�� Set up & manage all of your Financial & Mortgage needs (putting in place loan structures to pay off your debts & current home loans faster)

*$30 per week “weekly out of pocket cost” is based on a $60,000 taxable income earner. $30 per week is the estimated residual after rental income & tax benefits (increased net income)

pays for all relevant expenses associated with the investment property.

Introducing Australia’s leading and only fully integrated investment property solution

Build a passive portfolio of quality investment properties for as little as $30 per week*

Brand new house & land packages in growth areas across Greater Brisbane (SEQ)

Create a tax effective property portfolio that will reduce your tax & pay off your own home sooner

Merlot Investments Australia www.merlotinvestments.com.auPhone: 07 55 124 180 or 1300 MERLOT

MIA

While you’re securing the Nation We’re working on securing your Future

Own a brand new 4 bedroom homefor less than $30* per week

“ THEY’RE KEEPING THEIR PROMISE TO MY DAD.” JACOB WILLIAMSON

Since 1923 Legacy has kept its promise to look after the families of deceased veterans.Today 115,000 families rely on their support. Just as we rely on yours.

• Volunteer for Legacy events • Become a Legatee

• Be an advocate for Legacy among friends and family• Create a fundraising project for Legacy

To donate, phone 1800 LEGACY (534 229) or visit www.legacy.com.au

NATIONAL PARTNERS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

I HAVE had the pleasure of being asso-ciated with the Army since 1968.

In that time I spent 28 years in the green skin and the remainder with the Defence Public Service.

Reading in the media over the past couple of weeks about how some of our members are ashamed of the Army because of a drinking problem has prompted me to write to Army.

I have never and never will be ashamed of the Australian Army. Disappointed sometimes, yes, but never ashamed.

Why is it that we always have to concentrate on the small percentage

who do the wrong thing? Why can’t we tell the 98.5 per cent who do the right thing ‘well done and keep up the good work’? Why don’t we mention the soldiers who do stop their mates from driving drunk?

I think the answer is simple: it’s not in the media (as it will not sell papers), and it’s not often that senior people are in a place to see it happen.

I would like to say to all soldiers and officers: well done and keep up the good work.Charles Tournoff (ex-WO2)HQ AAvnTCOakey

RSM-A’s FAQs

Steps being taken to update boot list

Dave’s tale a sobering one

LETTERS AND VIEWPOINTS 21Army March 4, 2010

THE page 2 story of WO2 ‘Dave’ – a man who has survived some of the worst of his own excesses and rescued his life and career – will, we hope, make literally sobering reading.

His drunken antics, violence and lies will no doubt strike a chord with those soldiers who have seen this kind of behaviour up close.

The sad thing is that most of us know a ‘Dave’.

Problem drinkers have avenues of approach to assistance, through the Alcohol Rehabilitation and Education Program and similar programs, but the hardest thing can be to take that first step and actually ask for help.

Not everyone hits the booze like Dave did, but there are many soldiers who drink heavily on occasions and have a few beers a week as a matter of routine. The danger of trying to address problem drinking in the Army is that there is no clear line to draw between the two.

It would be stupid to expect soldiers never to have a drink, or never to have a few too many on the off chance that they will become alcoholics, but there is clearly a problem with drunk soldiers doing stupid and dangerous things.

So where to draw the line? And what about the medical guidelines that refer to safe levels? Not many of us actually know what they are.

Each of us will have our own views on the issue, but the Chief of Army is right to be concerned about the kind of irresponsible and somethime lethal drinking that causes so many personal and disciplinary problems on a daily basis across the Army.

Perhaps our culture of valuing mate-ship above so much else, and which works so well on operations where we all know that someone’s got our back, needs to be better translated into peacetime soldiering.

We need to look after our mates and ourselves in barracks too.

Q: We now have nine pairs of author-ised boots that can be worn. Where is the list of these boots? A: The RSM-Ceremonial is in the proc-ess of adding this list of boots to the DRN (possibly linked to ASOD). There will be photos of the boots, the brand type and the current policy on where they can be worn. It is anticipated that this task will be completed by the end of March when the rewrite of ASOD is posted on the DRN.

Q: Will operational deployments remain at eight months? A: At this stage deployments will remain at eight months. The eight-month brigade rotation model is giving Army the oppor-tunity to rebuild its essential warfighting skills. The model also allows more time for soldiers and officers to take leave, to complete their professional development courses and to spend some time at home. There are some specialist trades that are on shorter rotations due to personnel sus-tainment issues.

Q: Will three-year posting cycles mean that there will be the opportunity to develop professional skills by spending more time in the same r