Edition 1369 March 24, 2016 JOINT EFFORT · Edition 1369 March 24, 2016 JOINT EFFORT ... “They’ve been working hand-in- ... Soldiers help on road to recovery

Edition 1369 March 24, 2016

JOINT EFFORT

SCE UPDATE CENTREPIECEPAVING THE WAY AT ANAOA P6-7

Soldiers get their hands dirty helping Fiji rebuild after Cyclone Winston Pages 2-5

Personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and

Australian Army unload aid from an MRH-90 on Koro

Island during #OpFijiAssist. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

March 24, 2016News www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews2

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Capt Megan McDermott

SEVERAL weeks on from Tropical Cyclone Winston, which devastated Fiji’s Koro Island on February 20, Fijian and Australian soldiers are working together to help local com-munities get back on their feet.

With the arrival of HMAS Canberra on March 1, LHD landing craft have delivered heavy machinery to the island, including bulldozers, excava-tors and tractors, as well as specialist tradespeople from 2CER, to bolster the work already being done by Fijians on the ground.

Construction supervisor WO2 Richard Hall was impressed by the Fijian military’s work ethic and skills.

“The Fiji military engineers we’re working with are excellent,” WO2 Hall said.

“They’ve been working hand-in-hand with our tradespeople and taking on board what we’ve shown them. Once you show them, you don’t need to show them again.”

Three troops from 2CER have start-ed work in Koro Island’s Nasau village. The troops comprise combat engineers and specialist tradespeople – plumb-ers, electricians and carpenters – to assist with the large clean-up effort and rebuilding key infrastructure.

WO2 Hall said the removal of debris had been the initial focus for the sappers.

“We’ve been clearing areas obstruct-ed by derelict building works, such as masonry and block work, to render the community safe and clear for tents or temporary housing,” he said.

While helping to clear a block of land where the foundations of the vil-lage bakery once stood, WO2 Hall spoke with the bakery owner, Junior Kaitani, about the cyclone and his fam-ily’s plan for the future.

“Everything got washed away. We’re just trying to clean up all the mess here,” Mr Kaitani said.

“I’m going to think of trying to rebuild my bakery again but right now we’ll have to start from scratch.

“The ADF has really been helping us a lot in rebuilding our houses. We’re grateful to have them here on the island with us.”

WO2 Hall said the Australian sap-pers were also happy to be on Koro Island helping the locals and working with the Fiji military.

“It’s really good working here,” he said.

“It’s what we want to do – help the government and people here. Hopefully we can get them back to some form of normality.”

Soldiers help on road to recovery Australian and Fijian soldiers work together to bring about some normality on Koro Island

Australian Army soldier Private Brock Katsanevasl from 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment helps members of the Republic of Fiji Military Force to clear debris on Koro Island, Fiji as part of Operation Fiji Assist.

frank

Cfn Navjot Bhambra, of 2CER, helps repair a

local’s vehicle. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

Pte Brock Katsanevasl, of 2CER, helps a member of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces clear debris on Koro Island, Fiji, as part of Operation Fiji Assist. Photo by LS Helen Frank

One of HMAS Canberra’s landing craft

takes on vehicles at Koro Island

Photo by LS Helen Frank

Check #OpFijiAssist on Twitter and

Facebook for the latest updates.

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Soldiers help on road to recovery


CDF ACM Mark Binskin visited ADF personnel helping the people of Fiji recover after Tropical Cyclone Winston.

During his two-day visit earlier this month, ACM Binskin thanked the troops for their efforts.

“You are doing an outstanding job and the Fijian people are extremely grateful,” he said.

“They will not forget how you helped them and the community or the com-passion you showed as they started to rebuild their lives.”

About 900 ADF personnel are deployed on Operation Fiji Assist as part of the Australian government contribu-tion.

“We are working closely with Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office, Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Australia’s Department and Foreign Affairs and Trade and other non-govern-ment organisations to deliver help and aid where it’s needed. It’s a real team effort,” CDF said.

Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces RAdm Viliame Naupoto, Australia’s Head of Mission Margaret Twomey and Fiji Minister for Immigration, National Security and Defence Timoci Natuva accompanied CDF on his visit to HMAS Canberra and Koro Island.

ACM Binskin said Canberra had delivered about 90 tonnes of emergency relief supplies, including water purifica-tion equipment, humanitarian supplies

and three of the seven MRH-90 helicop-ters operating in Fiji.

“To date, the ADF has transported more than 480 tonnes of humanitarian supplies and equipment on 28 flights from Australia to Fiji,” he said.

“From the Air Force C-17A and C-130J crews to the Army engineers on the ground and the crew aboard Canberra, we are doing what we can to help our neighbours in their time of need.”

Prime Minister Bainimarama said the Fijian people were resilient in the face of hardship, but needed and accepted the support of the international community, specifically the men and women of the ADF.

“On behalf of the people of Fiji, and especially those who were affected by the hurricane, thank you all for being here for us,” he said.

“Of all the storms that have come through Fiji, none of them have been as destructible and devastating as the one we experienced a few weeks ago.”

Following a tour of the ship and brief of the operation by Commander JTF635 Capt Brett Sonter, RAN, ACM Binskin and Prime Minister Bainimarama flew to Koro Island where the bulk of ADF engineering elements are working with Republic of Fiji Military Forces to restore key infrastructure such as schools, roads and community shelters.

“The devastation is just unbeliev-able, in fact it’s heart breaking. But it’s good to see the Fijian people starting to get back on their feet and working very closely with all of us to get the com-munities up and running again,” ACM Binskin said.

Teamwork is key to successAn aerial view of ADF equipment and Australian aid on Koro Island. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

Australian Army vehicles travel into the village of Mudu. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

Children in Koro smile as troops conduct a damage assessment of their village. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

CDF ACM Mark Binskin, left, and Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama walk through Nasau during their visit to Koro Island. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

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THREE troops from 2CER have been working solidly with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Fiji officials and villag-ers to help the children of Koro Island return to school.

Positioned in the Koro Sea between Fiji’s two main islands, Koro Island was one of the worst hit by Tropical Cyclone Winston with 90 per cent of its buildings badly damaged or completely destroyed.

Support Troop Sergeant Sgt Alistair Le Lievre said his troop had been working on a number of projects primarily focused on the restoration of community buildings.

“Since we’ve arrived in Koro, most projects have been based around communi-ty centres such as schools, halls and medi-cal centres,” Sgt Le Lievre said.

The focus on community buildings was a deliberate decision made by Fijian authorities as they looked beyond immedi-ate life-saving humanitarian relief. With children back at school, parents will be able to start focusing on the repair of hous-es, crops and farmlands.

“I think it means a lot to the communi-ty as a whole as it allows them to return to some form of normality, which so far they haven’t had,” Sgt Le Lievre said.

The clearance of debris and restoration of key infrastructure has been the main focus for the Fiji and Australian engineers working on Koro Island, beginning with the island’s only secondary school, located in Nasau village.

Having made progress in Nasau, the three engineer troops are now spread out over Koro Island’s smaller villages, work-ing to get as many schools and community buildings restored until more permanent structures can be put in place.

Sgt Le Lievre, whose troop was assigned to the village of Mudu, said the troop had been working well with the local engineers and villagers.

“The community we’ve been working with have been exceptional in their attitude and in the way they’ve welcomed us onto the island,” he said.

“Working with the Fijian military has been a real eye-opener. They have a strong work ethic and good trade knowledge. They also like to have a bit of fun, which is great.”

Beyond Koro Island, the 2CER sappers continue to help outer-lying islands begin the initial recovery process enabled by HMAS Canberra’s amphibious capability.

Helping communities get back to normal 2CER troops help get children back to school on Koro Island

A 2CER soldier and personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces repair a school in the village of Mudu, on Koro Island, during Operation Fiji Assist. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

2CER and Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel, as well as members of the Koro District Department of Infrastructure, collect corrugated iron in Nasau. Photo by LS Helen Frank


Maj Kris Gardiner

SOLDIERS from 2CER and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces have assembled a mobile storage unit for the people of Koro Island, Fiji.

Requiring coordination and a lot of manpower, the 10x24m aluminium structure was carefully raised, providing a focal point for aid distribution on the island.

Sgt Matt Snowden, of 2CER, said the construction of the storage unit was an effort that required many hands.

“We’ve got lads from the Fijian Army Engineers who came across with us from HMAS Canberra,” Sgt Snowden said.

“We also have people from the local council who have come in to help.”

With the intent to gift the storage unit to the community, care was taken by the Australian sappers to show their Fijian counterparts and council members how to build the structure, as well as how to take it down.

Sgt Snowden said the unit would be an important asset to the village.

“It will give the people of Koro a

place to store the aid that has been pro-vided, such as tarps, water purification and cooking equipment,” he said.

“Rather than having villagers left to their own devices, they will be able to come here.

“The locals will be able to ensure the chiefs and elders are getting evenly dis-tributed stores.”

The unit will act as a warehouse for the time being, however, its size and mobility will also make it a useful multi-use structure for the community in the future.

Helping communities get back to normalStorage unit vital milestone in recovery

Above: Sgt Matt Snowden, of 2CER, ensures the level construction of a mobile storage unit at Nasau village, Koro Island, Fiji.Left: Sprs Tim Flack and David Jones take a short break from erecting the unit. Photos by LS Helen Frank and PO Yuri Ramsey

Above: An Army aircraft refuel team waits as a Taipan MRH-90 comes in to land at the Operation Fiji Assist aerial port of debarkation in Fiji. Photo by AB Chris Beerens


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ARMY is doing its bit to help integrate women into the Afghan National Army with more than 40 female

cadets graduating from the country’s top officer training institution in the past six months.

Army mentor Capt Sandi Williams said the graduations were a sign that pro-gress in gender integration was slowly, but surely, being made.

The Afghan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA), which is located west of Kabul, strives to train the finest and most fervent officer cadets in the country.

ADF personnel are at the forefront of helping the ANAOA to achieve its goals by providing mentors who advise and assist Afghan instructors as part of a five-nation, British-led task force.

Capt Williams provides mentoring in areas such as communications, logistics, and physical training.

She said the role had its challenges, but the rewards were exponential.

“A big part of the job is changing the perceptions of what females can do,” Capt Williams said.

“In many parts of Afghanistan, peo-ple still have the opinion that females shouldn’t have careers, or that they might not be suited to a career within the military.

“We’re trying to change that.”The 12-month officers course has

three parts. The first term covers basic

soldiering skills, the second focuses on planning and platoon leading and the third deals with counter-insurgency methods.

In February, 275 cadets, including 13 women, graduated at ANAOA, which marked the fifth graduation since the inaugural term started in October 2013.

Capt Williams said the last training cycle involved unprecedented levels of integration.

“Female cadets have been fully inte-grated into the field training exercises alongside their male colleagues,” she said

“They now participate in tactical manoeuvres at night and command both male and female officer cadets during leadership training.”

Many graduates will go on to branch school and develop careers in areas such as human resources, logistics, informa-tion technology and medicine.

“One of my cadets wants to be a pilot and another wants to command an infan-try platoon,” Capt Williams said.

“Slowly, as time progresses, the inte-gration is becoming more normal.

“With another 17, potentially up to 26, female cadets poised to start the next 48-week course, I think we’re making a difference.”

The ANAOA, modelled on the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in the UK and RMC Duntroon in Canberra, is designed to teach ANA officers key lead-ership and tactical skills.

The rising number of ANAOA graduates who are being supported by Australian soldiers are shaping the future of gender integration in Afghanistan, Leut Andrew Ragless reports

Afghan women pave way forward

Top: The highest achieving female cadet from the 2015 summer term delivers a set of orders to her block (platoon) during a field exercise.Above: Capt Sandi Williams is presented with parting gifts by members of Kandak One. Above photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

Afghan National Army Officer Academy mentor Capt Sandi Williams is thanked by members of Kandak (battalion) One following the academy’s fifth graduation ceremony. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

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Leut Andrew Ragless

THE Afghan National Army’s fight-ing capability has been bolstered by 275 junior officers, who make up the latest graduating class at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA) in Qargha, west of Kabul.

The event marked the fifth gradua-tion since the academy’s inaugural term started in October 2013, and now the total number of graduates is more than 1300.

ANAOA mentor Maj Matt Grantham said the graduation marked a significant improvement in the quality of leadership of the ANA.

“The academy is widely considered to produce the finest junior officers and graduates are in high demand within the respective corps of the ANA,” he said.

“These men and women are readily able to accept additional responsibility, including company command in some instances, in the time following their graduation.

“Soon they will be out in the field, leading a platoon of ANA soldiers in action against the enemy.”

The infantry stream will absorb most of the 275 graduates, with the remainder destined for combat engi-neering, signals, mechanical and vehicle maintenance, and transport and logistics.

Junior officers beef up ANA

SWORD A SYMBOL OF COURAGETHE most outstanding graduate from Kandak Two of the Afghan National Army Officer Academy says he was proud to be presented with the Duntroon Sword.

In the tradition of RMC Duntroon, the Australian Ambassador to Afghanistan Matthew Anderson presented the prestigious sword to 2Lt Murtaza Hashmi (left).

Mr Anderson said the sword symbolised strength and courage in the face of adversity.

“I have always been inspired by your patriotism,” he said.

“There is simply no greater calling than to volunteer to defend your country, and it’s all the more inspirational that you have chosen to do so in a time of war.”

2Lt Murtaza said receiving the award was a big honour.

“It is an honour because of my struggle, and the efforts I put into the academy, and especially into my lessons,” he said.

“I can’t express my feelings about it – it’s a big achievement for me and for my family.”

“It’s a big achievement for me and for my

family.– 2Lt Murtaza Hashmi,

ANAOA graduatePhoto by Sgt Hamish Paterson

Officer cadets graduate from the Afghan National Army Officer Academy in Kabul. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

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Eamon Hamilton

SPECIAL Forces can now use a C-130J Hercules to deliver an airdrop rigid hull inflatable boat (ADRHIB) at sea.

The first delivery of an ADRHIB by a C-130J from No. 37 Sqn was completed off the coast of Perth during Exercise Pegasus Moon, held from February 8-19.

A C-17A Globemas t e r f r om No. 36 Sqn conducted a sequential drop of two ADRHIBs during the same exercise.

The physical task of delivering an 11m-long ADRHIB is not a small chal-lenge, as it requires the vessel to be mounted on a platform called a marine craft aerial delivery system (MCADS).

The load weighs 9.5 tonnes and once it is in position there is only 13cm of clearance from the C-130J’s cargo com-partment ceiling.

Riggers and air dispatchers from 176 AD Sqn ensure the load is safely pre-pared and delivered.

WO2 Simon Joyce, an air dispatcher with 176 AD Sqn, said rigging the load began with acceptance and preparation of the ADRHIB for airdrop.

“This includes the fitting of four G11B cargo parachutes and additional redundant parachute release systems,” WO2 Joyce said.

“Doing this enables the cargo para-chutes to safely release and clear the boat once in the water.

“Once complete and inspected, the ADRHIB is then lifted on to the MCADS platform with a crane, and the ADRHIB is secured to the platform for aerial delivery.”

The airdrop of the load begins with an extraction parachute entering the air-stream, and “pulling” the MCADS and ADRHIB combo safely out the cargo bay.

Pte Steven Nemet, an air dispatcher with 176 AD Sqn, said once the load was clear of the aircraft, the MCADS released actuators that allowed the ADRHIB to separate.

“The ADRHIB enters the water underneath the descent parachutes, while

the MCADS will enter the water and sink,” Pte Nemet said.

“Alternatively, the MCADS can be fitted with flotation devices allowing for its recovery.”

Using either a C-130J or C-17A to deliver an ADRHIB provides greater flexibility to Special Forces working in maritime operations, said CO 37 Sqn Wg-Cdr Matt Cooper.

“It’s beneficial for any operation to have additional options and flexibility,” Wg-Cdr Cooper said.

“The expansion of the ADRHIB air-drop capability onto the C-130J provides those options to the Special Forces com-munity.”

“Once in the water, personnel can use the ADRHIB to mount an operation against an objective at sea, or conduct amphibious operations.

“The C-130J is also able to airdrop several smaller Zodiac marine craft and Special Forces personnel during a single pass.”

The job of airdropping ADRHIBs once belonged to the C-130H Hercules, which was retired in 2012.

The role was introduced to the C-17A, and now added to the C-130J as that aircraft continues its own role expan-sion.

Under Plan Jericho, Air Force’s plan to develop its future force, a C-130J’s ability to support land and maritime operations will expand even further.

This was demonstrated during Pegasus Moon with the C-130J airdrop-ping Special Forces and boats to rendez-vous with a submarine.

“In the past, the communication between Navy vessels and a Hercules crew and embarked personnel was lim-ited,” Wg-Cdr Cooper said.

“Upgrades to the C-130J will allow the crew and embarked personnel to access information, whether it’s from Navy vessels or Air Force surveillance aircraft.

“Special Forces on board a Hercules will have access to a live picture of the battlespace, and be able to conduct mis-sion briefings right up until the airdrop.”

�Airdrop of an inflatable boat for Special Forces makes waves during Pegasus Moon

Buoyed by the success

“Special Forces on board a Hercules will have

access to a live picture of the battlespace.

– Wg-Cdr Matt Cooper,CO 37 Sqn

Three Special Forces personnel jump from an Air Force C-130J Hercules during Exercise Pegasus Moon.

An ADRHIB falls away from the ramp of an Air Force C-130J.

Photos by Cpl David Gibbs

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Cpl Jake Sims

WHILE deployed on Operation Okra, Cpl Kenneth Horton has been raising the morale of Iraqi soldiers – but not through training.

As a force protection section com-mander with Task Group Taji, Cpl Horton’s primary focus is protecting Australian and New Zealand trainers, but as a secondary task he also plays the bagpipes.

He deployed with his bagpipes with the view of playing during Anzac Day commemorations in April, but that quickly changed when he found himself front and centre playing for an Iraqi bat-talion during training.

“I was on an escort task to visit train-ing with the Training Team CO and he asked me to bring the pipes along as he had been telling the Iraqi soldiers about them,” he said.

“I played a tune for them and they loved it.”

His musical skills have proven so popular he is asked to play almost every time he visits the Iraqi soldiers.

“Now every time I do an escort task with the CO or RSM, the Iraqi soldiers ask me to get the bagpipes out,” he said.

“I don’t do it all the time, but every now and then I will break them out and play a tune – they really enjoy it.

He also played at the Ninewa Operations Command Commando

Bags of entertainment at Taji

Battalion’s graduation parade after the battalion CO requested him to play.

“Coming onto that parade ground in front of a few hundred Iraqi commandos and playing for their commanders was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done as a piper,” he said.

Cpl Horton is also looking forward to playing at the Anzac Day dawn ser-vice in Taji.

“Playing pipes on operations for occasions like Anzac Day is always spe-cial,” he said.

“Now every time I do an escort

task with the CO or RSM, the Iraqi soldiers ask me to get the bagpipes

out.– Cpl Kenneth Horton,

Task Group Taji

Bagpiper performs on training mission

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Cpl Jake Sims

TWO carpenters deployed with Task Group Taji in Iraq are provid-ing invaluable support to the task group and its Iraqi Army training audience.

They have been working around the clock to ensure the trainers have the right tools to conduct training, including bayonet and range targets, work benches, storage cupboards and office fit-outs.

Carpenter Sgt Richard Saxby said he and his offsider, Pte Allan Channells, aimed to provide the task group with what they needed as quickly as possible.

“The biggest thing for us is we don’t like to let people down, so we work long hours to finish these pro-jects to make sure the training team have what it needs to get the job done,” he said.

“The range targets, bayonet tar-gets and urban training houses can all be flat packed for ease of transport to the training areas.

“Without some of these aids the training teams would not have been equipped to conduct the level of training they have.”

Pte Channells said they often designed the training tools from scratch.

Bags of entertainment at Taji Improving soldiers’ quality of life

“The most challenging thing for me is the actual design,” he said.

“We have to design a product that people have in their minds and then construct something that actually works and meets their intent.”

The largest task they have completed was the constriction of telephone booths for soldiers to use

when they call home.“That job was really satisfying

as it means the soldiers have some privacy when ringing friends and family,” Sgt Saxby said.

“They didn’t have that before, so to be able to build something that improved life for the soldiers was great.”

Pte Allan Channells, left, and Sgt Richard Saxby discuss plans at the Taji Military Complex in Iraq. Photo by Cpl Jake Sims

Imparting skills and knowledgeTHE next generation of junior leaders graduated from the Iraqi Army’s NCO Academy at the Taji Military Complex on February 21.

The Iraqi Minister of Defence Khalid Al Obaidi, Iraqi Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Training Lt-Gen Salahedeen Mustafa Kamal, and Commanding General Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command Maj-Gen Richard Clarke attended the graduation parade.

About 235 Iraqi soldiers marched out of the third Junior Leader’s Course (JLC) supported by Task Group Taji.

The graduation takes the total num-ber of soldiers trained by Task Group Taji, the combined Australian and New Zealand Task Group, to around 4220 since it began last April.

Mr Obaidi thanked the Australian and New Zealand trainers who instruct-ed on the course.

“We appreciate and are so thankful to the Australian and New Zealand instruc-tors who made a special effort to train those warriors,” he said.

Mr Obaidi said the soldiers graduat-ing from the JLC were well prepared to fight Daesh.

“You jundis (soldiers) who have completed this training are now ready to take the first step to liberate Mosul and defeat Daesh. In doing this, history will mention your names.”

Commander Task Group Taji Col Gavin Keating said the training would lead to the long-term development of the Iraqi Army.

“This training is significant for the Iraqi Army because it is all about devel-oping their junior leaders and junior non-commissioned officers,” he said.

“That’s critical for the long-term institutional development of their Army.”

Col Keating said he was proud of the efforts of the Australian and New Zealand trainers who supported the course.

“They’ve been positive, they’ve been professional in their approach and they’ve developed excellent rapport with the students,” he said.

Iraqi soldiers march past the dais during the graduation ceremony. Photo by Sgt Kalie Jones

Cpl Kenneth Horton, of Task Group Taji, plays the bagpipes at the Taji Military Complex, Iraq.

Photos by Cpl Jake Sims

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LCpl Sebastian Beurich

THE Long Ride is a long-standing tradition for Defence. Every year motorcyclists strap on their gear and ride across Australia to raise aware-ness of both prostate cancer and safe motorcycling.

On the past two Long Rides, Defence has raised more than $250,000 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia through par-ticipation and fundraising events held across the country.

Maj Peter Harrison brought the motorbike he will be completing the 8000km round trip on to a show-and-shine event held at Russell Offices on March 10.

“I’ve owned the bike [BMW K1300S] since 2009, so it’s pret-ty much in a new condition,” Maj Harrison said.

“Having said that, I’ve already trav-elled around Australia on it – it has just clocked up 110,000km.

“My co-workers think the end result is a bit mad – travelling that far on a motorbike. They probably think it’s even madder dragging my wife along on the back.

Gearing up for Long Ride

Maj Peter Harrison with his motorcycle at the Long Ride show-and-shine at Russell Offices. Photo by LCpl Sebastian Beurich

CDF ACM Mark Binskin plans to join the first leg of the 2016 Long Ride.Photo by Sgt Dave Morley

Get on your bike for charity ride

“My wife loves being on the back of the bike. She thinks it’s great fun.”

But the ride has a serious side for Maj Harrison.

“I participate to make sure that awareness of prostate cancer is actu-ally spread,” he said.

“It’s a deadly disease and not a lot of men get it diagnosed in the stages that it can be cured – it’s one of the few curable cancers.”

CDF ACM Mark Binskin, the spon-sor of Defence participation in the ride, judged the show-and-shine and will also join in the first leg of the ride.

“If one person makes an appoint-ment to have a prostate check, then we’ve achieved our goal.”

The 2016 Long Ride will see Defence members from across the country ride to Margaret River in Western Australia from April 8-16.

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SITTING in the passenger seat of Armygeddon took on new mean-ing for Cfn Thomas Snook when the Team Army street machine hit the Clipsal 500 Adelaide track on March 6.

For the 20-year-old trainee, it was not only his first time at Clipsal, but his first event with Team Army and his first time on a race track.

“I had been to Symmons Plains Raceway in Tassie once but not in a car, just walking around it, so to go out on the Clipsal track was good fun,” Cfn Snook said.

“It was just so loud. It stimulat-ed all of your senses; everything was vibrating – through the seat, the whole cab and with all the sounds on top of that as well, it just came from every-where.”

Performing in front of Clipsal spec-tators was also a memorable experi-ence for Cfn Snook.

“The crowd loved it. They were all up on their feet cheering and waving us on to do burnouts,” he said.

“It’s anyone’s dream to be able to do something like that with the crowd cheering you on. I’ve also been told that Clipsal is one of the best events you can go to so it was a privilege to be given that chance.”

Sitting next to Cfn Snook in Armygeddon was fellow trainee Cfn Keira Schroeders, also in her first on-track performance.

After 12 months and countless events as part of Team Army, it was Cfn Schroeders’ turn behind the wheel.

“I’d been on the track a few times [in the passenger seat] at other events with Team Army, but this was my first time driving and my first time at Clipsal, so I was pretty nervous,” Cfn Schroeders said.

All for Team Army Soldiers impress crowds at Clipsal 500

THE quality of rat-packs is about to improve with the announce-ment of new food-processing techniques soon to be used in their production at a Tasmanian factory.

Defence Minister Marise Payne said the government would invest $7.2 million in new processing technology, which would be used to produce high-quality combat rations.

Defence will establish a micro-wave assisted thermal sterilisation (MATS) research and development plant within the Defence Food and Nutrition Centre in Scottsdale, along with a production facility in Launceston.

Senator Payne made the announcement on March 9 and said the MATS process was innovative.

“This new food preparation method uses state-of-the-art rapid sterilisation techniques to create shelf-stable, ready-to-eat meals required by ADF personnel,” she said.

“Microwave-sterilised meals have the potential to improve the production and quality of ready-made foods across both ADF rations and the wider commercial market,

Rat-packs to get a whole lot better

both nationally and within the Asia-Pacific region.”

The investment follows a fea-sibility study undertaken by the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) in cooperation with Australian industry and the Centre for Food Innovation.

The Centre for Food Innovation

is a collaboration between DSTG, the University of Tasmania and CSIRO.

Building a new partnership between Defence and industry is a key focus of the recently released Defence White Paper and Defence Industry Policy Statement.

Sarah Rayner, of DSTG, tests samples of an orange-flavoured electrolyte drink at Scottsdale. Photo by David McClenaghan

“I stalled it at first, from the nerves, but then I got there. Someone said we were out there for eight minutes but that time just flew as I was so focused on where Project Digger was, just watching the smoke.

“We put on a bit of a show for the crowd, got the revs up in Army-G [Armygeddon] and even managed to snap one of the timber flagpoles on the back of the car due to wind resistance.

“Cfn Snook was really getting into the moment and was cheering people

on – you could just see the crowd’s excitement, they were so happy to see us out there.

“It was a great experience and I suppose it won’t be so nerve-racking next time.”

Team Army Project Manager Maj Scott Babington said giving soldiers the opportunity to get out on the track at events like Clipsal was what it was all about.

“We love engaging with the Australian public and Clipsal gives us

that opportunity, so to see the smiles on the soldiers’ faces when they get out of their vehicles after their run around the track really tells the story,” Maj Babington said.

“All the soldiers have really impressed me with their motivation and dedication to the team and for Thomas and Keira, it was great to see two young dedicated Australians doing what they love.”

Team Army supported Clipsal 500 Adelaide from March 3-6.

MEMBERS of 1 Bde also sup-ported Clipsal 500 Adelaide with an M113 APC and a Bushmaster PMV on show during the four-day event.

Helping to man the 7RAR weapons display was Pte John-Paul Van Rensburg, of D Coy (pictured), in his first time representing the brigade in public.

“It was good, something different, as everyday life in the battalion is really shel-tered as it’s obviously a com-plete military environment,” Pte Van Rensburg said.

“It was great to have the chance to show the public what we do.

“Families and kids were pretty excited to come in and check out the weapons and it was encouraging to get feed-back and to hear some of the comments the public make in regard to appreciating our service.”

1 BDE ON SHOW

Left: Team Army member Cfn Thomas Snook makes an engine adjustment to the Armygeddon vehicle at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide. Photo by Cpl Colin Dadd

Above: Vehicle mechanic trainees Cfns Lenny Hendry, left, and Keira Schroeders with Armygeddon. Photo by Cpl Craig Barrett

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THE government will invest $4 mil-lion to further develop an innovative emergency flotation device for use in the ADF.

The Pegasus Aircraft Buoyancy System, developed by Australian com-pany One Atmosphere in collaboration with Airbus Group Australia Pacific, is designed to provide additional buoyancy to rotary wing aircraft that have crashed or ditched at sea and potentially provide extra time for the aircrew to escape safely.

This funding will support the further development of the technology at the One Atmosphere facility at Eaglehawk Neck, near Hobart, and its potential application to the Tiger ARH. It brings Defence’s total investment in the Pegasus system to $7.8 million.

Defence Minister Marise Payne made

the announcement on March 10 and said the system would help ensure the safety of ADF members.

“The Pegasus technology will be ini-tially focused on the Tiger ARH to sup-port their use from HMA Ships Canberra and Adelaide,” she said.

“The opportunities for improved collaboration between Defence and Australian defence industry set out in the 2016 Defence White Paper and Defence Industry Policy Statement will allow us to harness the leading-edge Australian innovation and technological expertise we need for our fighting force.

“Congratulations to One Atmosphere and Airbus Group Australia Pacific for their role in developing this high-priority capability, which is exactly the sort of innovative solution that we need to sup-port the ADF.”

Innovative project to protect troops

Tiger ARHs land at RAAF Learmonth after conducting security operations during Exercise Northern Shield 2015. Photo by Cpl Janine Fabre

CDF leadership forumTHE first of two CDF WO, SNCO and NCO leadership forums for 2016 will be held at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, from May 11-13.

The three-day event will be addressed by Defence leaders and guest speakers facilitating interactive discussions on their leadership experi-ences, perspectives and challenges.

Guest speakers have been invited to present topics and a case study that speaks to the contemporary leadership issues in the 21st century.

Event organiser WOFF Darcy Henriksen, of the Centre for Defence Leadership and Ethics at the Australian Defence College, said the forum gave participants the opportunity to listen, question and interact with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the Service Warrant Officers (SWOs).

“CDF ACM Mark Binskin will offer some thoughts on what he believes leadership is all about and go through a number of leadership traits he values,” WOFF Henriksen said.

“Participants should use the forum to refine those traits and discuss and share their leadership experiences so that they continue learning.”

“Successful participants should also start thinking about leadership and what it means to them, and com-

“There was a great emphasis on joint capability and taking in the bigger picture.”

“A lot of the conversation was aimed at being a leader both up and down the chain, learning more about influencing people

as opposed to directing people.”

“It was the first time for most of us to share and understand each other’s service. The opportunity to listen, discuss and share our ideas with the senior leadership

team and service warrant officers was outstanding.”

“They realised that all the ser-vices have very much the same leadership challenges. And the overwhelming feedback from the participants is positive.”

Network and discuss experiences

pile a list of questions for their col-leagues, the SLT and their SWO.”

RSM-A WO Don Spinks encour-aged soldiers to attend.

“The forum encourages partici-pants through syndicate activity to openly discuss and debate issues draw-ing on their own experiences,” WO Spinks said.

More information on the leadership forums can be found at DEFGRAM 035/2016. EOIs should be processed through respective chains of command.

“The forum encourages participants

through syndicate activity...

– WO Don Spinks, RSM-A

FEEDBACK FROM PAST ATTENDEES

CDF ACM Mark Binskin lays a wreath during Army birthday celebrations at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Photo by Cpl Janine Fabre

March 24, 2016 Centrepiecewww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews16 17

OPTIMAL PERFORMANCEIT HAS been almost 12 months since

the introduction of the L125-3B Soldier Combat Ensemble (SCE).

The overwhelming feedback from recipients has confirmed it is superior to any SCE they have been issued in their careers to date, is better than pouches and packs they have purchased privately, meets their specif-ic-to-corps load carriage needs, and achieves an optimal balance between their force pro-tection and mobility requirements.

Of course, this is exactly what the SCE delivered by Army and the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) sought to achieve.

Director Major Systems Develop- ment – Army Col Scotty Palmer said the reception of the SCE to this point was encouraging.

“However, we cannot afford to rest on any laurels,” Col Palmer said.

“We must constantly seek to evolve SCE based on user feedback, what our coalition partners are doing and what commercial organisations are marketing.”

Elements of SCEThe SCE being delivered by L125-3B com-prises five elements: Ballistic Laser Ocular Protection

System (BLOPS). Includes spectacles, with interchangeable lenses and prescrip-tion inserts, as well as goggles.

Tiered Combat Helmet (TCH). Affords protection against blunt force trauma to the head and projectiles/shrapnel.

Combat Hearing Protection (CHP). Provides active hearing protection and the ability to communicate with up to three radios simultaneously.

Load Carriage Elements (LCE). Includes Tiered Body Armour System (TBAS), belt webbing, a range of pouch-es and no less than four packs of different sizes.

Protective Elements (PE). Includes soft armour for low-velocity projectiles, hard armour for both high-velocity and armour-piercing projectiles, and edge-blade-spike armour to protect combatants against knife attack in crowd control environments. Maj Pat Wise, of Army HQ, said while

only a few units were issued live PE, all recipients received training PE of the same size and weight as the live PE.

“This allows combatants to train as they would fight,” Maj Wise said.

Logic of design and distributionThe objective of the SCE delivered by L125-3B is to optimise the performance of the Soldier Combat System and its survivability (force protection) and mobility sub-systems.

Col Palmer said that was a constant chal-lenge.

“If we want to increase protection, we invariably increase the weight combatants have to wear or carry,” he said.

“In turn, this can compromise their mobil-ity and sustainability. Achieving the balance involves a nuanced approach to design and configuration.”

Nuanced, or tailored, SCE is at the heart of L125-3B.

Director General Modernisation – Army Brig Chris Mills said for the first time Army was scrutinising the specific needs of com-batants via a tiered classification system.

“This has been, and continues to be, a significant driver in the design and configura-tion of the SCE,” he said.

Indeed, L125-3B is not just about SCE for everyone based on an infantry-only design. It

is far more nuanced than that. When evolving the design of the SCE, Diggerworks, Army and CASG continually scrutinise what dis-mounted, mounted and combat support/com-bat service support combatants, both male and female, require.

For example, the new Large Assault Pack (LAP) and adjustable frame will meet 100 per cent of the ADF’s male and 95 per cent of its female size requirement. By compari-son, the field pack issued since the 1990s meets zero per cent of the female population requirements.

Moreover, capability deep-dives are regularly conducted into the specific needs of select dismounted, mounted and general PMV combatants to better tailor the SCE to their unique requirements.

The key driver in the distribution of the SCE is to provide it to those who force generate to go on operations first; that is, the fighting echelon of Army. A subordinate influence has been the force generation cycle. In short, Army attempts to introduce new equipment to brigades in their reset/readying calendar year.

In Forcomd’s case, this has meant the combat brigades, linked reserve battlegroups and support brigade attachments, receive it in the first instance.

Adaptive acquisition circa 2016One of the most encouraging aspects of the first 12 months of L125-3B SCE is the scale and scope of adaptive acquisition. Army and CASG have worked with industry to improve every aspect of the SCE. Many of these enhancements have been driven by user feed-back or rigorous trial.

The BLOPS has been improved to resolve the issues for improvement identified on operations and by 1 Bde with the 2015 issue.

The TCH has been replaced with one helmet for all combatants that is lighter than both the Tier 2 and 3 helmets delivered dur-ing 2015.

The CHP transitions from an over-ear sys-tem to a state-of-the-art in-ear active system.

The weight and ergonomics of the LCE have been improved. Specifically, the V4.4 TBAS is a significant enhancement on that delivered during 2015, as is the LAP and a number of pouches. The LAP will be back-issued to 2015 recipients.

Diggerworks is already progressing adaptive acquisition priorities for 2017. Headlining this effort is the development of the next evolution of a scalable TBAS system, V5, and the ongoing development of pouches.

The onus on the tactical commander/soldierAccording to Brig Mills, Army and CASG are confident they are doing their bit to improve the survivability and mobility of tac-tical force elements.

“It is now up to soldiers, NCOs and junior officers to leverage this leading equipment to improve the way in which they execute their tasks,” he said.

“It is up to our soldiers, NCOs and junior officers to rethink load carriage, mobility, protection and sustainability to optimise performance and reduce the weight they are carrying.

“Finally, we are reliant on constructive feedback from soldiers and junior command-ers as to how we can iteratively improve the SCE. Please let us know what you think.”

To have your say on the SCE, email Lt-Col McLennan at [email protected]

Lt-Col Ben McLennan provides an update on the implementation and reception of the Soldier Combat Ensemble 12 months into the roll-out

A new Large Assault Pack (LAP) has been designed by Diggerworks to improve comfort and sizing and provide detachable storage pouches.

A new adjustable pack frame replaces the Downeast and Alice frames provid-ing a one-frame-fits-all solution.

A new TBAS Version 4.4 designed by Diggerworks provides incremental improvements to Version 4.3 and will provide enhancements such as adjust-ed shoulder strap angle and padding for increased comfort, adjusted plate pocket sizing, revised cummerbund designs upgraded for improved stability and soft amour insert integration.

The Tier Zero Heavy and Light – the basic belt webbing systems – have been upgraded for improved stability, comfort and integration with TBAS and the new field pack.

The pouch remediation has yielded improvements to the Minimi pouch, medium dump pouch and medic pouch,

while a multipurpose/water bottle pouch has been added to contain a standard water bottle and cups canteen, or to carry miscellaneous items.

The new spectacles – Wiley-X VAPOR – are more robust and less prone to fog-ging than its predecessors.

The new goggles – Wiley-X Spear – better integrates with combat helmets and are more comfortable to wear.

The acquisition of the Tiered Combat Helmet has included the following enhancements: Common helmet type with NVG

shroud and accessory rails as stand-ard for both tiers.

Weight reduction from existing Tier 2 and Tier 3 helmets.

High-cut design with improved inte-gration for equipment such as hear-ing protection and CBRN respirators.

Boltless retention system for stability and improved fit.

Additional equipment options such as adapters and oxygen mask adapters.

Design and development provisions to allow modifications to helmets in response to changes in user needs.

The new CHP solution is the INVISIO – X5 in-ear headset with S10 and V60 configuration options.

The X5 is an in-ear system that is characterised by low size, weight and power characteristics.

World-leading bone conduction microphone that removes the requirement for a traditional boom microphone that can interfere with helmet straps.

Superior noise attenuation and situational aware-ness capabilities.

Superior user comfort and functionality.

Tier 1Combatants who undertake specialist or niche tasks.

Tier 2 DismountedCombatants who regularly engage in close combat as part of a dis-mounted combined arms team,

including infantry, joint-fires teams, combat engineers, select signallers and other common attachments to dismounted combined arms teams.

Tier 2 MountedCombatants who operate armoured fighting vehicles as part of a com-bined arms team. This includes

armoured crewmen and women.

Tier 3 General CombatantCombatants whose role and tasks are primarily focused on provid-ing combat support and combat service support to combined arms teams. This includes all corps not included in the Tier 2 definitions.

SOLDIER COMBAT SYSTEM TIERS

COMBAT HEARING PROTECTION

TIERED COMBAT HELMET

LOAD CARRIAGE ELEMENTS

BALLISTIC LASER OCULAR

PROTECTION SYSTEM

“It is up to our soldiers, NCOs and junior officers to rethink load carriage, mobility, protection

and sustainability to optimise performance and reduce the weight they are carrying.

– Brig Chris Mills, Director General Modernisation – Army

A soldier wears the new Australian Multicam Camouflage Uniform and Soldier Combat Ensemble, while carrying the new AusSteyr EF88 rifle with enhanced day sight and forward grip (with bipod).

A soldier wears the new Australian Multicam Camouflage Uniform and Soldier Combat Ensemble, while carrying the AusSteyr EF88 rifle with enhanced day sight, image intensification device, foregrip/bipod and weapon torch.

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March 24, 2016 Featureswww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 19

Restoring a WWII gun puts young offenders back on track, Pte Julia Whitwell reports

DE TA I N E E S f r o m t h e Brisbane Youth Detention Centre are working with the Ipswich Railway RSL

Sub-Branch and Queensland TAFE SkillsTech Australia to refurbish a WWII artillery piece.

The youths, aged between 10 and 16, are restoring a 25-pound gun, which was donated to the Ipswich RSL more than 20 years ago.

To restore the gun, and to reha-bili tate the youths, East Coast Apprenticeships (ECA) launched Operation Shelldrake, which enlist-ed the help of 1 Regt RAA and the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.

ECA CEO Alan Sparks said the project encouraged “positive choices” and provided an opportunity for young offenders to give something back to their community, and to learn valuable trade skills in the process.

“It’s also a chance for them to learn about our proud military history and the sacrifices made by generations of defence personnel,” Mr Sparks said.

This type of 25-pound gun was used widely throughout WWII and remained the artillery’s primary weap-on in the field up until the mid-1960s.

BSM 105 Bty, 1 Regt RAA, WO2 Matthew Miller said the restored gun was inoperable, which was common-place.

Above: BSM 105 Bty, 1 Regt RAA, WO2 Matthew Miller, CEO East Coast Apprenticeships Alan Sparks and TAFE vocational teacher Mark Arundell with the 25-pound WWII gun. Left: 1 Regt RAA soldiers load the gun from the Ipswich RSL on to a truck for refurbishment.

Loaded with potential“You often see garden guns like

this out and about,” he said.The restoration began when 105

Bty retrieved the gun from the old Ipswich Railway RSL club site.

It was sand-blasted to remove a layer of lead-based paint and then delivered to the detention centre for youths to work on.

Restoring the gun involved strip-ping the weapon, sanding and polish-ing each part, re-painting the pieces, and re-assembly.

The project will run until April, when the gun will be presented to the Ipswich RSL in time for Anzac Day.

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March 24, 2016Features www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews20

ONE of the Army’s oldest units, 51FNQR, celebrated its centenary with plenty of vigour in Cairns.

More than 120 members of the unit attended a memorial church service at St Monica’s Cathedral on February 27.

This was followed by a march with their colours along Cairns Esplanade that formed up in Fogarty Park.

Comd Forcomd Maj-Gen Gus Gilmore and 51FNQR CO Lt-Col Ben Toyne inspected the troops, along with the public who lined the streets and the surrounds of the parade ground.

Lt-Col Toyne said 51FNQR operated in some of Australia’s harshest environ-ments to provide operational surveil-lance as part of the joint interagency effort to secure the nation’s northern borders.

“The dedication of the patrolmen and support staff allow us to overcome the challenges we face from a part-time, dis-persed and remote workforce, and ena-ble a tempo that would surprise many who have not served within a Regional Force Surveillance Unit,” he said.

“We are all proud to serve with 51FNQR and we relish the opportunity to mark this important milestone in its long and successful history.”

Later Brig George Mansford (retd), who rose through the ranks from pri-vate, and his family attended the official

51FNQR marks its centenary, Sgt Dave Morley and WO2 Donna Bates report

100 years of bold stepsopening of the Brig ‘Warrie’ George Mansford AM RFSU Training Facility, which was opened by Maj-Gen Gilmore at Porton Barracks.

Brig Mansford told the 51FNQR members to “furnish this structure with a strong sense of purpose, unit pride, discipline and love of country”.

“Do all of this and more in your pur-suit of operational readiness to protect our nation,” he said.

Previous 51FNQR COs and RSMs also attended.

The celebrations ended with a cen-tenary ball attended by more than 250 current and former 51FNQR members at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal.

Main: 51FNQR troops march in Mareeba, Queensland, in 1939. Left: Comd Forcomd Maj-Gen Gus Gilmore, left, and Brig ‘Warrie’ George Mansford (retd) at the new RFSU training facility, which was named in Brig Mansford’s honour.Above right: Members of the 1RAR band at Fogarty Park, Cairns. Photos by LCpl Kyle Genner

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100 years of bold stepsONE OF ARMY’S OLDEST UNITS FORGED IN EGYPT

51 Bn is one of the Army’s oldest units and came to life in early 1916 in Egypt as part of the reorganisation and expansion of the AIF after the Gallipoli campaign.

The unit has a long list of battle hon-ours from WWI, with one of the most notable being the allied counter-attack at Villers-Bretonneux, where it lost 389 diggers in two days of fighting.

The counter-attack on April 24-25, 1918, involved many examples of brav-ery, with Lt Clifford Sadlier being award-

ed the VC and many of his comrades receiving other honours and awards.

During WWII, 31/51Bn served in New Guinea, where it formed part of Merauke Force and was designated as an AIF battalion in 1944.

Following its return to Australia, the battalion was deployed to Bougainville, where it was involved in its heaviest fighting of the war, at Tsimba Ridge and Porton Plantation.

During the war, the unit lost 61 men killed in action or died on active service, while a further 168 men were wounded.

Today, 51FNQR is an operational Regional Force Surveillance Unit with an area of operations (AO) of more than 640,000 sq km across far north Queensland.

A significant proportion of its soldiers are recruited from remote Indigenous communities across its AO.

The battalion is tasked with conduct-ing land-based and coastal surveil-lance and reconnaissance in support of national security operations in some of the remotest areas along Australia’s northern coast.

CO 51FNQR Lt-Col Ben Toyne leads his unit down the Esplanade in Cairns.

“We relish the opportunity to mark this important milestone.

– Lt-Col Ben Toyne, CO 51FNQR

Members of C Coy, 51FNQR, conduct a patrol and surveillance exercise off Thursday Island. Photo by LS Jake Badior

4 Squadron Combat Control

APPLICATIONS FOR 2016NOW OPEN

More information is available athttp://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/Sites/4SQN

Suitability screening will be conducted at RAAF Base Williamtown overthe period 06-10 June 2016

Applications via EOI will close 02 May [email protected]

INTEGRATE, SYNCHRONISE AND CONTROL AIRPOWER AT THETACTICAL LEVEL TO ENABLE THE EXECUTION OF PRECISON STRIKE

AND ADVANCE FORCE OPERATIONS


A DEDICATED marketing cam-paign to attract a future gener-ation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders into

the ADF was launched at the Army Recruit Training Centre, Kapooka, on March 14.

The campaign, “See Yourself”, was launched by Defence Minister Marise Payne, Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion and Assistant Defence Minister Michael McCormack.

Senator Payne said Indigenous peo-ple had served with distinction and made significant contributions in Australia’s national interest from the Boer War to recent operations in Afghanistan.

“These men and women are role mod-els, proudly Indigenous people, and have made a difference both in Australia and abroad,” she said.

The triservice campaign features LCpl Natalie Whyte, of Defence Force Recruiting – Parramatta, AB Jorde Lenoy, and Air Force Sgt Bodine Luscott, who share their ADF experience and how they “see themselves”.

LCpl Natalie Whyte, whose grandfa-ther Spr Bill Coolburra was a legendary Vietnam tunnel rat, said she’d wanted to join the Army since she was a young child as a result of family influences.

“My grandfather basically cemented my decision to join the ADF,” she said.

“I’d recommend a career in the ADF to

young Indigenous people because it really expands their horizons.

“I grew up in a town of less than 50 people and went to a school of less than 10 kids, where you had to travel more than an hour to get to school or the nearest medical centre.”

LCpl Whyte sa id “ for young Indigenous people who really want to get out and make something of themselves, and not be left on the shelf wondering what they’re good for, the ADF is the best place to bring out all the abilities they possess”.

“I’ve travelled all over Australia with the Army,” she said.

“I’ve done eight months at AMAB and worked with British, German and American soldiers, so it really is a career that’s for everyone.”

LCpl Whyte said Defence benefited greatly from enlisting young Indigenous people because of the skills, cultural awareness and drive they brought with them.

“Because of the hierarchal system within our culture we adapt well to the military way of life,” she said.

“I feel we’re all born warriors, so this type of lifestyle suits us well.”

CDF ACM Mark Binskin, CA Lt-Gen Angus Campbell, Cdre Tony Partridge, representing CN, and Gp-Capt Geoff Kimmins, representing CAF, attended the ceremony, with Indigenous ADF members and community leaders.

Opportunities abound in the ADF, Sgt Dave Morley reports

Opening doors to the future

CDF ACM Mark Binskin, LCpl Natalie Whyte and Defence Minister Marise Payne at the ADF Indigenous campaign launch at Kapooka. Photos by LS Jayson Tufrey

Defending Australia and its National Interestswww.defence.gov.au

FUNDAMENTALINPUTS TOCAPABILITY

The Defence and Industry Conferencecontinues to be a key event for Defence andindustry collaboration.The Government has a clear intent to reset andtransform the Defence and industry relationship. Usingthis intent, and acknowledging industry as a fundamentalinput to capability, the 2016 conference will focuson delegate involvement with concise and thought-provoking presentations, Q&A panel sessions andinteractive feedback on key topics.

With a renewed focus on efficiency and relevance, thiswill be a highly affordable, practical and productiveconference.

For more information about the conference, including theevent program and how to register, visit our websitewww.defence.gov.au/casg/DplusI/

CANBERRA CONVENTION CENTRE – 15 JUNE


Opening doors to the future

AN INDIGENOUS soldier spoke at the launch of the recruiting campaign to encourage young Indigenous people to consider an ADF career.

Army Elder Uncle Roy Mundine, pictured, joined up from his home town of South Grafton in 1958 and spent the next 36 years in the Army.

He was awarded a Mention in Despatches for his leadership with 5RAR during an incident in South Vietnam where he lost a leg in a mine-field on Anzac Day 1969.

Uncle Roy said he thought it was a good idea for young people to join the Army.

“There’s so much they can learn and take back to their communities later on,” he said. “You learn something new every day, you’ll get a great education, and you can get out into society and mix with interesting people.”

DURING WWI, Indigenous people who wanted to join up had to flout the gov-ernment’s strict European recruitment policy and prove they were “white enough” to fight, according to CDF ACM Mark Binskin.

“But once enlisted, each was accepted as an Australian soldier, respected for their skills and regarded as a peer,” he said.

“In that respect, the Australian mili-tary was an early pioneer of the recon-ciliation process that continues today.

“The nation’s Indigenous service-men and women stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their comrades, even before they were recognised as Australian citizens.”

ACM Binskin said historians estimated around 823 Indigenous Australians enlisted in the AIF during WWI.

“A century later, there are 787 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people serving in the Army,” he said.

“But in raw numbers, we still have some work to do.”

ACM Binskin said the aim was to increase the Indigenous workforce from 1.6 to 2.7 per cent by 2018.

“To achieve our goal, we’ve devel-oped the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan, introduced a range of

pre-recruitment courses and appoint-ed Indigenous recruitment officers to mentor and support Indigenous candidates through the recruitment process,” he said.

“With around 40 recruits of Indigenous descent in training here at Kapooka, we are beginning to see results.”

ACM Binskin said one of the big-gest recruitment hurdles Defence faced was giving young Indigenous people confidence that they could enjoy a successful military career.

“That’s where this marketing cam-paign comes in,” he said.

“The ‘See Yourself’ campaign focuses on the experience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander personnel like LCpl Natalie Whyte, who features in the campaign and joins us here today,” he said.

“The Indigenous men and women who feature in the campaign speak about their desire to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

“And they all speak about being welcomed into the Defence family and embraced as themselves.

“But I think Natalie put it best when she said, ‘you wear the green – you are green’.”

INCREASING INDIGENOUS ADF WORKFORCE A KEY PRIORITY FOR CDF“With around 40 recruits of Indigenous descent in training here at Kapooka, we

are beginning to see results.– ACM Mark Binskin, CDF

Outstanding Army career

Innovation rewardedARMY nominations are sought for the inaugural Public Sector Innovation Awards. Individuals, work units, groups or teams can nominate initiatives from small projects with local impact up to large projects with impact across a service or the entire Defence organisation and beyond.

The four categories are:� Innovative Solutions – taking

an idea and trying something different;

� Engaging with the Edge – engag-ing radical approaches;

� Culture and Practice – engaging and empowering staff; and

� Digital Transformation – digital, online and technology.Nominations close on April 15

and winners will be announced dur-ing Innovation Month in July.

For information on the awards visit www.act.ipaa.org.au/innovation-awards The Associate Secretary is interested in any nominations, copies of which can be sent to [email protected]

145 Sig Sqn 50th145 Sig Sqn is holding a 50th anni-versary parade at Vincent Lines, Holsworthy Barracks, from 2-3pm on April 1. The parade will be fol-lowed by a dining-in night at 7pm for 7.30pm. The cost is $50 per person for a two-course meal. Former mem-bers are invited to attend. Shuttle buses will be provided to and from Holsworthy railway station. Contact Capt Morgan Smith for more details on (02) 8782 2125 or email [email protected]

IN BRIEF

If so, there is a change to the existing Warranty Scheme for loss or damage to householdgoods incurred during a removal. The change applies to domestic removals where the goodshave been uplifted on or after 1st March 2016 including consignments uplifted from storage.

With effect from 1st March 2016, the current Warranty Scheme is being changed to allow for newreplacement cover to be applied to items which fall within predefined categories and age limits.

In cases where more than minor damage to an item has occurred, members will be supplied with a newreplacement item if Toll Transitions decides that repair of the old item is not economical and the item iseligible for replacement in accordance with a table (see below) of age-based item inclusions.

The existing like-for-like replacement or compensation cover will continue to apply to items whichfall outside the specified age limits.

RememberNot every item that sustains damage will be replaced with a new item or compensation paid at newvalue. In the first instance damaged items will be repaired where practicable and compensation paid forminor damage.

Read Toll’s “Your Defence Relocation Guide - Version 9” and answers to FAQs available atwww.tolltransitions.com.au/defence for full details of the Warranty Scheme.

For more informationFreecall: 1800 819 167

www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

Isyourhouseholdgoodsremovalsupliftdateonorafter1stMarch2016?

Item If the notice or loss or damage is for… and the date of manufacture is.. then the item maybe replaced..

1 an electrical item with a new replacement value of $500 or moreExamples: Television, Surround Sound Audio System, Vacuum Cleaner

within 10 years of the removal uplift date new-for-old.

10 years or more before the removal uplift date like-for-like.

2 an electrical item with a new replacement value of less than $500Examples: Computer Monitor, Kettle, Small Television



3 an electrical white-goodExamples: Refrigerator, Freezer, Microwave, Washing Machine, Dryer,



4 a furniture itemExamples: Bed, Dining Table, Chest of Drawers, Lounge Suite



5 other itemsExamples: Picture frames, bicycles, BBQ, crockery, plastic tubs




A CONTINGENT of 150 ADF members marched alongside their families, friends and Defence public servants in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade on March 5.

Defence participation in the Mardi Gras is an opportunity for members to demonstrate pride for their service and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) members.

D i r e c t o r O r g a n i s a t i o n a l Development Uni t Col Helen Macpherson led the Army contingent during what was her first march in uniform.

“It was a great opportunity to demonstrate to the public, soldiers and Defence broadly the importance we place on diversity and inclusion in our organisation,” she said.

“The most memorable moment was the continuous cheering the Defence contingent received during the march.

“With the exception of Anzac Day, it is rare to receive such outspoken recognition for Defence on what was a particularly special night for many Defence LGBTI members and friends.

Col Macpherson said diversity and inclusion were key enhancers of capa-bility.

“Diverse teams enable us to look at matters from all perspectives,” she said.

The parade was commanded by the Head of the Sexual Misconduct, Prevention and Response Unit, Capt Christine Clarke, who was marching for the ninth consecutive year.

“Being chosen to lead the Defence contingent was an honour,” she said.

“I feel privileged the LGBTI com-munity has accepted me as a friend and ally.”

Defence personnel have partici-pated in the Mardi Gras parade since 1996 and have marched in uniform since 2013.

VCDF VAdm Ray Griggs said ongoing participation in the parade demonstrated an enduring commit-ment to evolving Defence culture.

“People are central to our capabil-ity and Defence is absolutely com-mitted to ensuring we have a diverse, respectful and inclusive culture,” VAdm Griggs said.

“The Mardi Gras is an opportunity for Defence to publicly demonstrate the respect we have for diversity in the workforce and the contribution all our people make to our mission.”

The Mardi Gras parade celebrates the progress the LGBTI community has made in the fight for equality.

Celebrating diversityOne hundred and fifty ADF members march with pride in Sydney

The Army contingent marches along Oxford Street during the

2016 Mardi Gras Parade in Sydney. Photo by AB Nicolas Gonzalez

Bowman Hall (Blacktown City Council Chambers)62 Flushcombe Road Blacktown

For all enquiries please contact Renato Cantalupo on0425 227 818 orGreg taylor - 0427 935 135

GREATER SYDNEYSCALE MODEL

EXPO

* Massive buy\sell table ( a small surcharge will be payablefor any kit sold)

* Open and formal categories for model competition -Competition is open to all - entry fee is $2 per kit -Competion entry details will be listed on our facebookPage - https://www.facebook.com/scaleexpo/

* Model and aftermarket vendors/exhibitors & book sellers & modelling tools

* Prizes for best model in categories* 3d printing display & tutorials* IPMS stand to discuss your skills & techniques* Raffle prizes that will have you clambering to grab your

wallet* Close to shops, banks, & public transport* Most of Sydney’s major modelling clubs will be in

attendanceAdmission:

$8 - adults, $3 - children, $20 - family of 4 - 2 adults and 2 children$4 -aged pensioners and serving ADF Members

(on production of card or Service ID)

Saturday 2nd April 2016 (10am to 5pm)& Sunday 3rd April 2016 (10am to 4pm)

IN COLLABORATION WITH IPMS (NSW)


EXPERIENCES in strategies to deal with mental health issues were shared during a visit by Allan Sparkes to RAAF Base

Richmond on February 24.The recipient of a Cross of Valour

(CV), Mr Sparkes was at Richmond to give a presentation on his experiences with PTSD.

Mr Sparkes was awarded the CV for his actions rescuing a child from a flooded underground storm water drain in Coffs Harbour in 1996.

The CV is the highest civilian bravery award and second only to the Victoria Cross, with Mr Sparkes being one of only five recipients.

The aftermath of Mr Sparkes’ award, however, saw him deal with PTSD, and he now promotes resilience and positive mental health.

During the presentation, Mr Sparkes led an open forum to discuss on going efforts to educate and remove the stigma of mental health issues.

“It is essential that agencies whose people are exposed to high levels of stress, pressure and possibly trauma adopt a proactive approach to mental wellness,” Mr Sparkes said

“It is heartening to see the approach taken by the ADF in this regard.

“It is never too early to start these discussions and I applaud Defence for its efforts.”

The event was a launching pad for many workplace discussions about the next step people can take in improving their own understanding of this emotive subject.

During the presentation, Mr Sparkes spoke of his own confronting thoughts and described his decision to take his own life and just what stopped him in those final moments. The experiences

were recounted in Mr Sparkes book, The Cost of Bravery.

As a Soldier On ambassador, Mr Sparkes toured the base to gain a better understanding of the stresses and strains experienced in the military.

He also visited soldiers at 176 AD Sqn, meeting the unit’s OC, Maj Francisca Molnar.

“It was a pleasure to host Allan as a small token of our thanks for an engag-ing, emotive and inspirational presenta-tion on his mental health journey,” Maj Molnar said.

“As both a Beyond Blue and Solider On ambassador, his visit to Richmond was an excellent opportunity to under-stand some of the stresses the job places on people.

“It is great to meet inspirational peo-ple such as Allan who, along with great organisations, are helping to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.”

Capt Ian Carter, a ground liaison officer with Air Force’s No. 37 Sqn, organised the visit.

“Allan is living proof that there is life after a suicide attempt,” Capt Carter said.

“The importance of having him visit and talk is immense. Sharing experi-ences goes a long way to removing the stigma of mental health issues and pro-vides positive examples for those experi-encing difficulties.

“If today has only helped one person gain a better understanding of what they, a friend or loved one is going through, then I consider it a great success.”

Mr Sparkes is participating in a charity trek to raise funds to bring Indigenous leaders from remote Australian communities to the 2016 National Suicide Prevention Conference. If you wish to make a donation, visit https://trek4spa.everydayhero.com/au/allan-sparkes-cv

Civilian bravery award recipient talks to soldiers about PTSD at RAAF Base Richmond

Smashing the stigma�� In an emergency, call 000.

��Your chain of command is a primary resource that can provide advice, referral and support.

��Other than in an emergency situation, contact your local ADF medical centre or psychology section.

��The Defence Community Organisation provides services 24-hours a day,

seven days a week. Call 1800 801 026 or, if you are calling from overseas, call +61 2 9359 4842.

��Chaplains are connected to all units in Australia and can provide support and referrals.

��The ADF Mental Health All-hours Support Line is a confidential support service for ADF members and their families, which is available

24-hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1800 628 036 or +61 2 9425 3878 (from outside Australia).

� The Veterans and Veterans’ Families Counselling Service is available to veterans of all deployments and their families. Call 1800 011 046.

��You can also call Lifeline on 131 114.

WHERE TO SEEK HELP

WO2 Shane Madrid gives author Allan Sparkes a tour of 176 AD Sqn. Photo by Cpl David Gibbs

DASMThe DASM deals exclusively with aviation safety and is the primereference source for aviation safety in Defence. It details the DefenceAviation Safety Management System (ASMS) and clearly delineatesbetween what is policy and what is guidance.

The release of AL4 covers changes to the Aviation Risk Managementprocess with the introduction of the So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable(SFARP) process.

AL4 also sees changes to the Fatigue Management chapter; amendments dueto organisational changes within DDAAFS; and updates to all areas related toComcare and Workplace Health and Safety notification and reporting. To learn

more visit: http://intranet.dpo.mil.au/avpubs/aaplib/6734_001/AAP6734_001.pdf

Defence Aviation Safety Manual

NEW RELEASEAL4

AIR MARSHAL GN DAVIES, AO, CSCDEFENCE AVIATION AUTHORITY

AIR FORCE SAFET

Y

DEFE

NCE AVIATION

DDAAFS

RISK LEVELS AND DEFINITIONS

LIKELIHOODDESCRIPTOR FORSYSTEM CONTEXT:

DESCRIPTOR FORACTIVITY CONTEXT:

5 ALMOSTCERTAIN

• Expected to occur several times a yearor often during the system life cycle.

• Is known to occur frequently in similarsystems being used in the same role andoperating environment.

• Expected to occur during the plannedactivity.

• Is known to occur frequently in similaractivities.

4 PROBABLE

• Expected to occur one or more timesper year or several times in the systemlife cycle.

• Is known to have occurred previously, butis not certain to occur.

• Expected to occur in most circumstances,but is not certain.

• Is known to have occurred previously insimilar activities.

3 OCCASIONAL• Expected to occur less than onceper year or infrequently during systemlife cycle.

• Not expected to occur during the plannedactivity.

• Sporadic but not uncommon.

2 IMPROBABLE• Not expected to occur, but possible toexperience one or more events duringthe system life cycle.


• Occurrence conceivable but considereduncommon.

1 RARE• Only expected to occur in rare orexceptional circumstances or no morethan once during the system life cycle.


• Occurrence conceivable but not expectedto occur.

CONSEQUENCES

LIKELIHOOD MINOR(A)

MODERATE(B)

MAJOR(C)

CRITICAL(D)

CATASTROPHIC(E)

5 ALMOST CERTAIN L (A5) M (B5) H (C5) VH (D5) VH (E5)

4 PROBABLE L (A4) M (B4) H (C4) H (D4) VH (E4)

3 OCCASIONAL VL (A3) L (B3) M (C3) H (D3) H (E3)

2 IMPROBABLE VL (A2) VL (B2) L (C2) M (D2) M (E2)

1 RARE VL (A1) VL (B1) VL (C1) L (D1) L (E1)

RISK LEVEL VL Very Low L Low M Medium H High VH Very High

CONSEQUENCE DEFINITION

MINOR (A) MODERATE (B) MAJOR (C) CRITICAL (D) CATASTROPHIC (E)

Personnel: Minor injury or illness thatis treatable in the workplace (first aid)or by a registered health practitioner,with no follow up treatment required.

Mission: Partial achievement of amission with unit/tactical implicationsbut does not affect an operationalobjective.

Capability: Temporary degradationto Defence capability provided byan aviation or core system. Indicativerepair time: less than two working days.

Reputation: Local short-term mediaattention and negative public reaction.

Financial: Associated costs less thanAU$100 000.

Environment: Any environmentaldamage repairable by natural actionless than 1 year. No rectification actionrequired.

Personnel: Injury or Illness causing nopermanent disability, which requiresnon emergency medical attention by aregistered health practitioner OR 10 ormore injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Minor’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an importantoperational objective with significant unit /tactical implications.

Capability: Temporary substantialdegradation to Defence capability providedby an aviation or core system. Indicativerepair time: 2 – 14 working days.

Reputation: Local prolonged mediaattention and negative public reaction.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$100 000 but less than AU$1 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damagerequiring remediation. Less than 3 monthsto remediate.

Personnel: Serious injury or illness requiringimmediate admission to hospital as aninpatient and/or permanent partial disabilityOR 10 or more injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Moderate’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an importantoperational objective with serious unit/tacticalimplications.

Capability: Temporary loss or temporarysevere degradation to Defence capabilityprovided by a core aviation system. Indicativerepair time: greater than 14 days but lessthan 12 months.

Reputation: Negative reaction by publicDefence interest groups and short termnational media attention.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$1 000 000 but less than AU$10 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damage requiringin excess of 3 months but less than 6 months toremediate.

Personnel: Single fatality and/or permanenttotal disability OR 10 or more injuries/illnesses categorised as ‘Major’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an essentialoperational objective with significantstrategic implications.

Capability: Long term degradation toDefence capability provided by a coreaviation system. Single aircraft loss / morethan 12 months to repair system.

Reputation: Widespread public discontentwith Defence or service, prolonged adversenational media attention or coronial inquest.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$10 000 000 but less thanAU$100 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damagerequiring in excess of 6 months but lessthan 24 months to remediate.

Personnel: Multiple fatalities OR 10 ormore injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Critical’.

Mission: Failure to achieve a missionthat is essential to a strategic objective.

Capability: Indefinite loss of Defencecapability provided by a core aviationsystem. Numerous aircraft loss or loss ofsingle asset of significant strategic value(eg AEWC). System irrepairable.

Reputation: Widespread publiccondemnation of Defence. Longterm media condemnation or formalGovernment inquiry.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$100 000 000,

Environment: Significant environmentaldamage. Irrepairable or in excess of 2years to remediate

22 Oct 15

Military aviation operations, exercises and training by theirnature must involve some level of risk to achieve success,but our planning and execution must be thorough to ensurethat risks are eliminated or minimised so far as is reasonablypracticable to achieve each mission.


WHILE the world cel-ebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, that fact

was not missed on the 237 ADF women serving on operations in the Middle East.

Women in the Army have been serving in conflict zones success-fully for many years. At the end of February, there were just under 100 female Australian soldiers serving on operations, comprising about 10 per cent of the deployed Army force.

Pte Alicia Cann is serving with the Movements Control Detachment and said she loved being in Kabul, Afghanistan.

“Being deployed on operations as a mover has probably been the best time I’ve had since I joined the Army three years ago – it’s excellent,” she said.

“Our team is kept quite busy here with all the movements in and out, and I work with some great people.”

Sgt Coral Gilmore, also of the Movements Control Detachment, said she loved meeting different people who passed through the area.

“My favourite part of the job is getting to mix with people of so many

Movement operators Pte Alicia Cann and

Sgt Coral Gilmore are assigned to the Movements Control

Detachment at Hamid Karzai International

Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Photo by

Sgt Hamish Paterson

Closing the barriers

different nationalities,” she said.“Kabul, in particular, has people

from all over the world coming and going and I enjoy helping them get their move made as efficiently as pos-sible, with no hold-ups.”

Women have been working in a broad range of roles in the Army for many years. Some of these roles include, but are not limited to, mili-tary police, fire-fighters, Black Hawk pilots, intelligence gathering, trans-port, engineering, medical and com-munications.

“Being deployed has been the best time I’ve

had since I joined three years ago.

– Pte Alicia Cann, Movements Control Detachment, Kabul

Celebrating diversity on operations

March 24, 2016 Personnelwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 27

OTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate

1 x knowingly making a false statement in relation to an application for a benefit – DFDA s 56(1)

11 x general dishonesty – obtaining a gain – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.1(1)

The member was accused of know-ingly making a false statement in relation to an application for a service benefit. Member was also accused of doing a thing with the intention of dishonestly obtaining a gain from the Commonwealth. The member

pleaded guilty to all charges and was found guilty of all the charges. The member was dismissed from the ADF.

NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate

1 x assaulting a subordinate – DFDA s 34

The member was accused of assault-ing a subordinate member. The mem-ber pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge. The member forfeited seniority in rank and was fined $1000 (to be paid in instal-ments).

FEBRUARY TRIAL RESULTS

Sgt Dave Morley

A PROGRAM designed to offer fast-track training for Army Reserve recruits opting for infantry employment started with Queensland’s 11 Bde and Western Australia’s 13 Bde on February 29.

CO 31/42RQR Lt-Col Keith Potter said the program, known as the Accelerated Training Option (ATO), would enable recruits to complete their training in just six months, rather than the usual two years.

“Under the scheme, training will run from February to June, with recruits completing basic and infan-try specialist training before taking part in a brigade-level field exer-cise,” he said.

“The two key benefits are reduc-tion in training wastage by acceler-ating training and increasing reten-tion by developing a strong cohort.”

The units involved are 9RQR, 2 5 / 4 9 R Q R , 3 1 / 4 2 R Q R a n d QUR from 11 Bde, as well as 11/28RWAR, 16RWAR, 13CSSB and WAUR from 13 Bde.

Lt-Col Potter said the ATO

was established by Comd 2 Div Maj-Gen Stephen Porter, who encouraged the initiation of more flexible working and training options for Army Reserve person-nel.

“The old models of Army Reserve training are being chal-lenged as reservists adapt to their new role and tasks under Plan Beersheba,” he said.

“The ATO provides new trainees an option of completing their recruit and IET training in a concentrated period rather than the traditional method of conducting this training modularised over several years.

“The training content doesn’t change between the traditional and accelerated options and the main challenge was synchronising exist-ing courses to enable ATO partici-pants to conduct courses in a con-centrated period.”

Lt-Col Potter said a trial of the ATO scheme in 2015 revealed it was important to allow participants a period of recovery between the recruit and IET courses.

“Once qualified, the soldiers will participate in a brigade collec-tive training activity to reinforce their course training and induct

them into their parent unit sections and platoons,” he said.

“About 60 soldiers have enrolled for the 11 and 13 Bde ATO this year and I understand Comd 2 Div’s intent is those 2 Div brigades in the force generation reset will conduct an ATO each year.

“The scheme will hopefully inspire more young people to con-sider a career in the Army Reserve.”

P t e C a l l u m C u r t i s , o f 31/42RQR, is one of the diggers undergoing the ATO program.

He said the ATO was a high-tempo training package that pro-vided him with the opportunity to rapidly acquire his trade skills to a proficient standard.

“Mission readiness is the focus and culture of my battalion and the option to complete initial training in a continuous block allows soldiers to come out of the training pipeline ready to start mission-specific train-ing, which is a big win for the unit,” he said.

“I love the intensity and method-ical approach of the training.

“The quality of instructors has been excellent and their approach has been very much oriented around getting us combat ready.”

Accelerated training for reserves Fast-tracked training for infantry reserves

Ptes Callum Curtis, left, and Laura McCrae, both reservists from 11 Bde, negotiate an obstacle course during a media promotion for the new Accelerated Training Option, a program designed to offer fast-track training for reserve recruits who opt for infantry employment. Photo by Maj Al Green

RASigs researchPTE John Ryan, of 7 Tpt Sqn in Melbourne, is researching the role and contribution of women in RASigs in post-1945 conflicts for the Australian Army Signals Museum. He is keen to hear from members or former members who can assist him with this research. Pte Ryan can be contacted on 0434 005 413 or [email protected]

IN BRIEF MP centenaryCURRENT and former military police from across Australia will converge on Canberra from April 1-3 to celebrate the corps’ centenary. A centenary parade will be held at the Australian War Memorial at 10am on April 2. The parade will be reviewed by the Governor-General Gen Sir Peter Cosgrove, with senior officers from across the ADF, state and federal police commissioners and several overseas guests also attending.

Giving kids a head startYOUNG Australians have been encouraged by Assistant Defence Minister Michael McCormack to consider serving in the ADF for 12 months.

Mr McCormack launched the 2017 ADF Gap Year Program at the Melbourne ADF Careers Expo on March 7, which was attended by stu-dents from more than 70 schools and universities across Victoria.

“The Gap Year Program offers young Australians a great adventure from which they can benefit personally and professionally,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Year 12 graduates who com-plete this program gain valuable train-ing and life skills. Throughout the year they learn about teamwork and profes-sionalism. They work hard and adapt to new situations and build resilience.

“The leadership skills they develop can take them anywhere. But, in past years, after experiencing service life,

about 80 per cent of participants chose to remain in either the reserve or perma-nent ADF workforce.”

This year, more than 430 young Australians are participating in the program

“We are making a significant invest-ment in our young people and future Defence capability by committing $57.5 million in the program in 2016-17,” Mr McCormack said.

The program attracts a diverse group of young people from different cultures and backgrounds.

More than 40 per cent of applicants for the 2016 program were women and Defence also sees the potential for the Gap Year to increase the participation of Indigenous Australians in the ADF workforce.

Defence Force Recruiting is looking for another 495 people to take up the Gap Year opportunity in 2017.

For more information, visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/education/GapYear

Anniversary dinner1JMOVGP will celebrate 20 years since its formation on May 1, 1996, with a dinner for past and present members at Old Parliament House in Canberra on April 28. Separate regional activities are also planned to be hosted by individual Joint Movement Control Offices around the country and in the Middle East. Tickets for the dinner in Canberra are $115 and are on sale until April 1. Call Flg-Off Joshua James on (02) 6128 4444 or email [email protected]

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March 24, 2016www.defence.gov.au/news/armynewsPeople28

Above: Spr Ty Fergus prepares to take measurements of a damaged school roof in the village of Nasau, Koro Island, Fiji. Photo by AB Chris Beerens

Right: LCpl Carl Brumfield, of the RMC Band, plays the saxophone during the Army birthday commemorative service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Photo by Janine Fabre

Pte Allan Channells, of Task Group Taji, makes a work bench at the Taji Military Complex in Iraq. Photo by Cpl Jake Sims

Musn John Felstead with his wife Mikaela and daughters Melody and Arianny at the Brisbane Defence Community Organisation welcome event at Gallipoli Barracks. Photo by LACW Casey Gaul

Commander 17 CSS Bde Brig Paul Nothard presents Vietnam veteran and Battle of Long Tan survivor Uncle Victor with a gift during an ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ ceremony at Randwick Barracks, Sydney, on March 1. Photo by AB Nicolas Gonzalez

Detachment Commander Cpl Ben Corsini is assigned to Task Group Afghanistan and based at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

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March 24, 2016 Funwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 29

YES! WE STILL ACCEPT AND ENCOURAGE LETTERS

DO YOU have an issue that needs addressing or a great idea to share with the rest of the Army?

The Army letters page is a great place for soldiers to engage with key decision makers and have their issues heard.

It’s also a chance for all Army per-sonnel to read about the issues that

matter most to their colleagues and find out what’s being done to resolve them.

Letters should be kept below 250 words when possible and include the letter writer’s full name, unit and contact details.

To get your letter in print, write to the editor at [email protected]

DIKKO By SSgt Bob Dikkenberg

INSTAGRAM: CODEYS_ART By Pte Codey Anderson

GAME REVIEW

Tom Clancy’s The DivisionPublisher: UbisoftSystem: Windows (reviewed), Xbox One, PlayStation 4RRP: $61.95 (Steam), $69 (Xbox One, PlayStation 4)Release Date: March 8, 2016Reviewer: LCpl Sebastian BeurichRating: 3.5/5

TOM Clancy’s The Division was one of the most anticipated games of the first quarter of 2016, but does it live up to the hype?

The Division fills a small niche, a modern, third-person, open-world, online RPG shooter. The only other game of note in this category is Destiny, released only on consoles.

The game sets you against criminals and rival mili-tary elements in a barren, disease-stricken New York, helping civilians while trying to find a cure for the previously unknown smallpox strain that was released upon the city.

The storyline of the game leaves a little to be desired, mostly coming from ‘intel’ picked up as you explore the game areas. This makes the game feel a little shallow as you are working through the missions, as not much is revealed of the backstory of the plague that has hit the city.

There are 16 story missions in the game and each one has visually unique and appealing environments. The concept behind each mission is different and helps to advance the story of the game, however, the execu-tion of the missions is generally repetitive.

The side missions and encounters (missions to earn credits to unlock portions of your base of operations) fall prey to the same trap; they are the same missions simply repeated in different areas of the map.

The “Dark Zone” (DZ) is the designated player-versus-player area. Outside of this area is instanced solely to the player – unless you are grouped with other players, you won’t see them at all.

The difficulty of missions is genuinely challenging, requiring a well geared and skilled group to complete successfully. Teamwork is key in both these missions and the DZ, when fighting high level elite enemies.

Ubisoft Massive (the developer) has done an excel-lent job with the environments in the game, accurately portraying Manhattan while still giving it the gritty, post-apocalyptic feel that the game requires.

Overall, while the game is visually appealing and well-polished, the end-game lacks content for high-level players, outside of trying to assemble the best gear possible.

The developer has already released its plans for content updates, delivering a large-scale content pack once a month, starting in April, with the first three being free to play, which will include more end-game content.

BOOK REVIEWThe Fair DinkumsAuthor: Glenn McFarlanePublisher: Pan MacMillan Australia 2014 RRP: $35Reviewer: Sgt Dave Morley

IF YOU’RE fair dinkum, you’ll need to read this book.

The ‘Fair Dinkums’ were a group of 152 Victorian men from all walks of life

who joined up as reinforcements for the 7th Battalion in mid-1915.

They earned their name because they joined up despite knowing the horrific casu-alties their battalion had already suffered at Gallipoli.

Author Glenn McFarlane is a Melbourne-based journalist and great-nephew of one of the Fair Dinkums, Pte Alf Layfield, who was killed in action in France in 1917.

McFarlane has methodically researched each and every one of these diggers and gives a warts-and-all account of their careers.

A detailed nominal roll is included at the end of the book, listing those who came home as well as the third who didn’t.

While these blokes only spent a few weeks in the tail end of the Gallipoli cam-paign, one of them, Pte (later Capt) Bill Scurry, invented the “drip rifle”, which featured greatly in the evacuation by trick-ing the Turks into believing shots were still being fired by soldiers on the ground.

After Gallipoli they were sent to France to experience the horrors of Pozieres and Fromelles, proudly, and appropriately, wear-ing their “mud over blood” colour patch.

WIN A BOOK

Army has a copy of The Fair Dinkums to give away. Email [email protected] telling us why you deserve a copy. Entries close April 7.

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March 24, 2016www.defence.gov.au/news/armynewsHealth30

Eat well and be merryPoor nutrition has negative impacts on both mental and physical health, Sgt Dave Morley reports

WE HEAR every day how bad junk food is for us, but how many of us heed the advice and really pay

attention?WSM/PTI WO2 Jayne Morley,

of the Holsworthy Barracks Trainee Rehabilitation Wing, said poor nutri-tion had several downsides.

“Poor eating habits include under or overeating and not having enough of the healthy foods we need each day,” WO2 Morley said.

“Poor nutrition can impair our daily health and wellbeing and reduce our ability to lead an enjoyable and active life.

“People who eat an overall healthy diet – that is one comprising lots of fresh, ‘colourful’ food in its most natural state, unprocessed and nutrient dense – also tend to have better mental health.”

WO2 Morley said poor nutrition had several effects, both physical and mental.

Physical effects include: fluctuating energy levels and

alertness; food allergies; weak immune system and ill-

nesses; weight fluctuations with fat gain

and muscle loss; obesity, diabetes and heart disease; hypertension; vitamin and mineral deficiencies; eating disorders; and, inflammation.

“Mental effects can include mood swings, depression and anxiety, con-tributing towards conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),” WO2 Morley said.

However, the steps to good nutrition are easier than most people think.

Limit dairy, wheat and gluten

Avoid processed foods, col-ourings and preservatives

Limit simple carbohydrates

Avoid high sugar concentrated drinks

TIPS FOR GOOD

NUTRITION

Avoid processed foods and limit simple carbohydrates. Photo by LS Jayson Tufrey

“You need to eat a majority of fresh produce, which is nutrient dense. This includes vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and fruit,” WO2 Morley said.

“Soft drinks, fruits juices and cor-dial, which all have high sugar content and artificial sweeteners, should be avoided. Instead, drink lots of water.

“It is also a good idea to limit dairy intake with its high allergy rates, as well as wheat and gluten.

“Avoid all processed foods, colour-ings and preservatives, and limit simple carbohydrates like bread, pasta, cakes and biscuits.”

She said PTIs were not qualified in dietetics and nutrition, and therefore could only provide advice to soldiers.

“For more clinical information it is recommended members be referred to such providers,” she said.

General nutrition advice can be found at www.defence.gov.au/Health/HealthPortal/FitnessNutrition.asp

Sportwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews March 24, 2016 31

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LCpl Sebastian Beurich

TWO Army members tested their fitness boundaries on March 6, competing in two separate ultra-marathons held in Canberra and Coburg, Victoria.

Maj Andrew Donaldson wasn’t going to enter the Canberra 100km, but when he received free entry the Wednesday before the race, he decided to give it a crack.

“The Canberra 100 is regard-ed as a ‘mass-participation’ race, which encourages people to get out and do things they normally wouldn’t,” he said.

“It wasn’t an event I had target-ed because it’s about participation, not competition.

“The organisers were trying to encourage more of the faster run-ners, who they called ‘elites’, to join in. Most of us aren’t really elites – we’re not sponsored run-ners, we’re just faster participants.”

Maj Donaldson said he didn’t train specifically for the event, but relied on his base fitness to get him through.

“I hadn’t put in the right train-ing for the event. I would have been comfortable with a top 20 result and a solid time, so I certainly didn’t expect to get second place,” he said.

“The overall heat and exposure on the day made it pretty difficult – it was 35 degrees on the day and the course was exposed, with no breeze.”

And what did Maj Donaldson feel when he crossed the finish line?

“Relief. Relief that I made the descent down Mt Ainslie without falling and had pushed myself pret-ty hard for the day,” he said.

“My greatest supporters – my son and wife – were waiting at the finish line, cheering me on.”

He said his next event was the Razorback Run, a 65km mountain ultra-marathon in the Victorian Alps on March 19.

WO1 Kevin Muller tackled a different type of course for the Coburg Six Hour Championships, completing 201 laps of a 400m running track – a total distance of 80.4km.

“We really just had to run as

far and as fast as we could in six hours,” he said. “The hardest part was pacing myself at the start of the race – it’s pretty common for people to rush out of the gate at the start.”

WO1 Muller’s efforts earned him two age-bracket Australian records, defeating well-known ultra-marathon runner Yiannis Kouros’ records in both the six-hour distance and 50-mile time catego-ries.

“I was hoping to take out the age-bracket records, but before the race started, I thought that it may have been too warm, which would have prevented me from getting there,” he said.

“It felt pretty great when I crossed the finish line. I was tired, but I think it was probably the best I’ve ever paced myself in a run.”

WO1 Muller said the Coburg Six Hour was a build-up race for him.

“My main goal this year is the Australian 24 Hour Championships in April, which is a qualifying race for the world championships in Belfast next year,” he said.

From back page

“I knew the other finalists were capable of more complex tricks than I was, but the course was so technical they weren’t able to get a clean run,” he said.

“I guess that’s how it goes in slope-style. You’re better off doing easier tricks that you know you’re good at, rather than trying something amazing and stuffing-up the landing.”

Other ADF representatives to podium at Meribel were Maj Katie Chapman, who took out the bronze in the PGS, and AB Emma Hook, who won bronze in the BX event.

In Saalbach-Hinterglemm the previ-ous fortnight, the ADF dominated the RAF with our snowboarders walking away from the competition with two gold, five silver and two bronze medals.

Maj Chapman, who took out the gold medal in the BS and silver in the PGS, said it was a surreal experience.

“When you’re in the start gate up against a really good rider you have to overcome fear and use the adrenaline and focus on your training to get down the course quickly and safely,” she said.

“To do all of that while representing your country and the ADF is an experi-ence you can’t get anywhere else.

“This is my third Europe trip and they’ve all been very different. My favourite experience has been seeing everybody’s improvement. It’s fantastic to see how much better everyone’s riding gets over three weeks.”

AB Hook finished behind Maj Chapman to take out bronze in the PGS.

Due to insufficient snowfall, the BX

had to be modified into a banked sla-lom event where two riders race down a single track making use of the natural terrain, taking on elements of both BX cross and slalom.

None of the competitors had done an event like this before and the ADF women’s team proved their dominance by walking away with a one, two, three finish to Maj Chapman, AB Hook and Cpl Kris Rayner, while Lt-Col James Kerr earned silver for the men.

The final Austrian event, the slope-style, saw competitors perform huge grabs, spins and the odd backflip in order to determine which team had the most stylish rider.

The course consisted of a kicker, a flat box, a flat-down box, a tabletop jump and a rainbow box.

It was fast, steep and exciting to ride, with more than one competitor com-ing unstuck on some of the features. Perennial ADF champions AB Hook and Maj Court both walked away with silver medals.

The ADF team conduct reciprocal tours with the British Combined Services every few years, with the bilateral rela-tionship now into its third decade.

Competitors were hand-picked from the ADASA competition, held in the Australian Alps the previous winter, to represent the ADF overseas.

Closer to home, this year’s ASADA competition will be held at Perisher in August.

For more information, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/sites/AAASA

Soldiers impress in ultra-marathons

Runners go the distance

WO1 Kevin Muller competes in the Coburg Six Hour Championships, running a total distance of 80.4km.Inset: Maj Andrew Donaldson.

ADF skiers and boarders dominate in British comp

March 24, 2016

SPORT

LS Jayson Tufrey

ARMY led the charge as ADF snow-boarders and skiers dominated the British at their own game in their own backyard.

Champion snowboarder Maj Alistair Court walked away with gold medals in the slope-style (SS) freestyle snowboarding event at the British International and Interservice Snow Sports competition at Meribel, and the paral-lel giant slalom (PGS) against the RAF in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, two weeks earlier.

A contingent of 24 ADF Alpine Snowsports Association (ADASA) members competed in the five-week biennial tourna-ment, which ran from January 2 to February 6, against the British military, held in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, and Meribel, France.

Events contested included super giant sla-lom, giant slalom and slalom for the ski team, and PGS, banked slalom (BS), slopestyle and boarder-cross (BX) for the boarders.

The SS course was so intense the organis-

ers deemed only five male and three female members from each team could enter the qualifying, and only the top eight males and four females would qualify for the finals.

Maj Court said he had never experienced such a high level of competition before.

“The British have much more access to the snow than what we have in Australia,” he said.

“Each time I entered the start gate I knew that the people competing against me were far better riders than me.

“I considered myself lucky to even make the finals.”

After the first run Maj Court found him-self in third place.

His next run was perfect, including a 180 into a board slide with a 180 dismount, and a back flip with a 540 spin, which was enough to cement first place.

Maj Court said he initially couldn’t believe he’d won.

Continued page 31

MEDAL HAULADF skiers and snowboarders

dominate in British snow sports competition

From left, Maj Katie Chapman, Maj Alistair Court, AB Emma Hook and Lt-Col James Kerr.

Documents

Edition 1369 March 24, 2016 JOINT EFFORT · Edition 1369 March 24, 2016 JOINT EFFORT ... “They’ve been working hand-in- ... Soldiers help on road to recovery