The soldiers’ newspaperEdition 1466 May 28, 2020

IN THIS TOGETHER

National Reconciliation

Week

SPECIAL EDITION

Pages 4-13

This mural, Standing Together, was created by Larrakia Nation contemporary Indigenous artists Jason and Shaun Lee. It was commissioned for the opening of the Regional Force Surveillance Group Training and Education Centre in the Northern Territory.

DISCLAIMERAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised these pages may contain images or content referring to deceased people. It may also contain words or descriptions that may be deemed culturally sensitive. The term “Indigenous” refers to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Maj Carrie Robards

PRIDE and the prospect of future glory spurred on tank and cavalry crews battling it out for the Coral-Balmoral Cup at Puckapunyal Military Area in mid-March.

After five gut-wrenching days of physical fitness, combat skills and teamwork, 1 Armd Regt was named best armoured cavalry regiment, with 2/14 LHR (QMI) crowned top cavalry crew.

Before winning best tank crew, B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt’s Cpl Anthony Horner had four weeks to get his crew in shape.

“When I was told I would be the crew commander I was excited, but knew this would be no walk in the park,” Cpl Horner said.

“We focused on physical train-ing, weapons drills, written tests and battle casualty training, enhanced by induced fatigue, to get ready to deliver a strong performance.”

A speech from the SSM on day one “lit a fire” under the crews as

they were tested on a series of small arms, before theory and practical assessments.

Day two commenced with a five-hour physical challenge of weighted runs, stores carries, fire and movement stands and a swim event.

“That really tested our drive and determination. With not much to run on except fumes and pride, we pushed on to finish the day with an all-arms call for fire serial in the School of Artillery simulators and an LF6 serial at the WTSS,” Cpl Horner said.

Two days of live-fire assessment followed, testing crews’ threat pri-ority assessment, time to acquire targets and effectiveness of round placement, before completing a force-on-force serial to demonstrate their “stealth and cunning”.

“The energy at the firing point was amazing, with each crew dem-onstrating their cohesion and effi-ciency as they executed their drills. The smallest error could mean the

difference between first or last place,” Cpl Horner said.

Competition was tight, with half a point separating the champion Abrams crew.

Crews united to compete for their regiment on the final day, the highlight being a battle casualty serial with simulated ASLAV IED strike and moulage added for addi-tional realism.

The stand was designed by Cpl Abbie Walters, a medic from B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt.

“Creating realistic medical training was important; it allowed crews to be put under similar stress-es that they would experience if they had a real-life casualty,” Cpl Walters said.

“All crews were able to provide the lifesaving treatment that would have been required on the battle-field.”

Maj Tim Fricker, OC B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt, was not only proud of his champion tank crew, but of the high standard across the competition.

“This year allowed the very best armoured fighting vehicle crews to compete in individual and crew competencies, across a broad spec-trum, demonstrating best practice in an ideal setting,” Maj Fricker said.

The Coral-Balmoral Cup is an annual competition to identify crews to represent Australia at plat-form-specific international competi-tions – the Sullivan Cup in the US for tank and the Worthington Cup in Canada for combat reconnaissance vehicles.

“The winning crews are ready to represent the Australian Army with distinction and I’m confident they’ll bring their best to the international stage,” Maj Fricker said.

The Cup is named after the 1968 Battle of Coral-Balmoral between the 1st Australian Task Force and Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army forces.

Social-distancing restrictions came into effect during the Coral-Balmoral Cup. It was conducted in accordance with the guidance at the time.

Competition puts skills to the test

Fuelling future capabilitiesCapt Taylor Lynch

THIS month, 7CSSB began receiv-ing its share of the next phase of the Land 121 vehicle rollout and commenced training on niche new systems, which should improve the unit’s ability to support the mobility of 7 Bde in the field.

Along with six new HX-81 prime mover trucks, a notable addi-tion to the fleet was the bulk liquid fuel tanker, which will mobilise up to 30,000 litres of fuel to resupply forward fuel modules and vehicles.

7 Bde has previously used blad-ders in the field to hold large quanti-ties of fuel, but these needed to be drained prior to moving, meaning fuel technicians could not move quickly to new locations.

LCpl Daniel Andrews was among the first of 7CSSB Heavy Section’s personnel to undergo training for the new tanker.

“We’ll have two of these eventu-ally, at 30,000 litres each, meaning we can move 60,000 litres of fuel at any given moment,” LCpl Andrews said.

“Instead of having the bladders on the ground, we can now pack

up and deliver fuel at a moment’s notice.”

Commander 7 Bde Brig Jason Blain visited 7CSSB to see the new vehicles and was impressed by the level of professionalism displayed by the soldiers.

“It’s great to see soldiers who are well-informed, well-trained and passionate about the capability their new vehicles bring,” Brig Blain said.

“Additions to support units like this are vital in ensuring the brigade

is fit to fight and capable of achiev-ing a range of tasks on and off the battlefield.”

The first of two fuel tankers arrived this month, with a further eight trucks and heavy trailers due soon.

LCpl Daniel Andrews, of 7CSSB, stands in

front of the new bulk liquid fuel tanker.

Photo: Tpr Jonathan Goedhart

An M1A1 Abrams tank live-firing during the Coral-Balmoral Cup at the Puckapunyal Military Area. Photo: WO2 Michael Hunter

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Cpl Julia Whitwell

USING a 3D printer, 20STA helped produce hundreds of face shields to protect Queensland’s frontline healthcare workers.

The unit manufactured about 400 headbands for the shields.

OC CSS Bty Maj Matthew Chapman said the team’s efforts were in response to the community initiative of 3D One – a medical equipment company – to increase the supply of face shields.

“There was a call-out for anyone at home with a 3D printer to help

print parts. We’d print the headbands, clean them and send to 3D One to be sterilised,” Maj Chapman said.

3D One provided the design and materials, along with assembly and quality control.

Soldiers of 20STA use the unit’s 3D printers for prototype concepts and designs.

“It provides alternate problem-solving pathways,” Maj Chapman said.

“It’s that engineering engagement – coming up with designs then translating those into machine code.

“Some soldiers have 3D printers at

home and continue their professional development in their own time.”

One of those is Cfn Jayden Middenway who built his own 3D printer from scratch.

Cfn Middenway was the lead 3D print operator for 20STA’s contribution to the face shield project.

“My job was maintaining the printer and trouble-shooting,” Cfn Middenway said.

“It feels good to put my skills to use for the broader community. It’s fulfilling turning up for work knowing I can do something towards helping with the COVID-19 crisis.”

May 28, 2020 Newsdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 3

Strong shields

IN BRIEFFocus on fraudAUDIT and Fraud Control Division published a special edi-tion of Integrity Matters, focusing on fraud during COVID-19. It includes information about the types of fraud emerging during the pandemic, how people can protect themselves, and how to report suspected fraud. The edition also contains an employee’s first-hand account of committing fraud in Defence through the Into the Mind of a Fraudster podcast series. The edition can be accessed at http://drnet/AssociateSecretary/AFCD/FCIB/DFC/Awareness/IntegrityMatters/pages/Home.aspx

Stop the spreadIT’S everyone’s responsibil-ity to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and using the

COVIDSafe app is a simple way to contribute to the national effort. That’s why Defence is encourag-ing its personnel to download the app. By helping to find close contacts of COVID-19 cases, state and territory health officials will be able to contact people who may have been exposed. More than 5 million Australians have downloaded the app, which is designed to be more effective with a higher number of users. While voluntary, head of the COVID-19 taskforce, Lt-Gen John Frewen encouraged all Defence person-nel to download and activate the app. “I’ve downloaded it, the CDF has downloaded it, as has the Secretary,” Lt-Gen Frewen said. “I strongly encourage you to download and register for COVIDSafe. It’s easy and will go a long way to helping stay on top of COVID-19.” Uptake of the app is aimed at one of three criteria

identified by the government so restrictions can continue to be eased. Additional information regarding the app can be found at health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/covidsafe-app

Mental health appVETERAN-founded charity Swiss 8 has widened its focus to help all Australians prepare for the isola-tion caused by COVID-19. The program, delivered through an app, aims to help military person-nel deal with isolation and adjust-ment when they leave active ser-vice. The program will now also be available to civilians to help reduce anxiety and depression and increase a positive outlook. The app tackles areas of fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, sleep, mini-malism, time management, per-sonal growth and discipline.

Cfn Jayden Middenway holds one of the face shield frame components manufactured by members of 20STA.Photo: Sgt David Hicks

LS Kylie Jagiello

AUSTRALIAN and New Zealand Defence Forces united to host a hackathon to identify opportunities to strengthen Australia’s sovereign supply chains.

Known as #ANZDFhack, the event was held from May 15-17 to identify supply-chain issues that underpin Defence’s ability to mobilise quickly.

With 500 participants and 70 mentors, it was conducted over four time zones and two countries.

It produced almost 40 submis-sions, including prototypes, appli-cations and algorithms.

Australian Army Research Centre representative Lyndal Thompson helped organise the event and said it was the beginning of a broader conversation with industry and academia.

“This showed we can collab-orate more closely around inno-vation with Defence and create positive networks moving into the future,” Dr Thompson said.

“Now is the optimum time to build networks and find self-reli-ant capability solutions with our close partner and friend across the Tasman.”

Navy’s Robotics Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence project manager Leut Harry Hubbert used his experience in past events as a mentor.

“Usually you would find these hackathons conducted over one to two weeks and people would

generate real-world problem solu-tions,” Leut Hubbert said.

“With the event being over two days, I was impressed with the quality of submissions that were produced.”

Aerospace Engineering officer Flt-Lt Tenzin Crouch participated in start-up and innovation week-ends during his university days and jumped at the chance to be a mentor.

“I love how you develop high-performing teams during innova-tion workshops,” Flt-Lt Crouch said.

“I mentored two teams over the weekend and it was good to see how they had different styles.

“One was technical so I pro-vided guidance on business and how to pitch an idea and make it sellable.

“The other team had lots of ideas and business sense. They needed my mentoring to pull eve-rything together into a cohesive pitch.”

Submissions were judged the week following the event and win-ners were announced on May 22.

Winning and shortlisted con-cepts will progress through inno-vation programs, mentoring, real data, funding streams or ongoing support.

Defence and industry organisa-tions are looking to take on pro-jects within their innovation and accelerator programs and link to funding on merit.

Aussies and Kiwis unite in hackathon

Leut Harry Hubbert on board a C-27J Spartan during an artificial intelligence search-and-rescue training mission conducted off the coast of Stradbroke Island, Brisbane. Photo: Cpl Jessica de Rouw

National Reconciliation Week4

On May 5 I will mark 20 years working in the APS, with 15 of those in the Indigenous

Affairs arena for the Department of Defence.

From 2005 to 2007 I worked as an Indigenous Liaison Officer (ILO) with Cadet Policy Branch and was relocated from Canberra to Townsville, based at Lavarack Barracks.

I remember every moment working with Cadet Policy Branch. My job as the ILO gave me opportunities to travel to remote communities across North Queensland and the Northern Territory to assist cadet units with Indigenous community engagement to encourage participation among Indigenous youth.

I developed long-term working relationships with elders, school principals and community leaders in the Tiwi Islands, Darwin, Bamaga, Weipa and the Torres Strait.

In 2008, I was approached to move across to a new Defence section – the Directorate of Indigenous Affairs (DIA).

As the Indigenous Community Engagement Officer, my role was to work with all the services and engage with the broader Indigenous communities to identify specific strategies and programs to increase the participation of Indigenous men and women in the ADF.

The Department of Defence, the Minister, CDF and the Secretary of Defence all supported the development of ideas to remove the barriers to Indigenous men and women wanting to join Defence.

In my time with DIA, I witnessed Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff working together in harmony and respecting the skill-set of each team member to remove any barriers and provide opportunities for Indigenous

people. Today the Indigenous Pathway Programs tailored to Army, Navy, Air Force and the APS are a success because both Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff came together for a common solution, which is having a great impact on the rise of Indigenous men and women in the ADF and APS today.

In 2015 I was given an opportunity to move across to Army HQ and be appointed as Cultural Adviser to the new Army Regional Indigenous Liaison Officer network.

Since then I have worked within Army People Capability Branch in Army HQ, in the Army Personnel Support Centre, North Queensland.

This role has given me opportunities to expand on my community engagement skills and assist Army units, brigade commanders and staff to enhance their relationships with Indigenous Australians, respect their cultural ways and provide opportunities for Army to develop a set of skills to become subject-matter experts in Indigenous community engagement.

I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given by Defence over the past 15 years. I have met and worked with a range of diverse people from all different backgrounds and, without going through a journey of reconciliation, I would not be the person I am today.

Some of my greatest highlights during this reconciliation journey have been Defence giving recognition to the First Peoples of this nation through Indigenous flags flying at all Defence bases, viewing the world differently from a non-Indigenous perspective and witnessing the Indigenous programs developed.

That is reconciliation in the workplace, “In this together”.

Lee Smallwood reflects on her 15 years working within Defence and what reconciliation means to her.

The power of reconciliation

Maj Matt Grant

IT’S difficult to build a partnership in the middle of a crisis.

That’s the lesson 51FNQR kept in mind at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic response.

With the highest percentage of Indigenous Australian soldiers of any ADF unit (44 per cent), 51FNQR’s motto “love of country leads me” points to its role to pro-tect country and keep the communi-ty, especially elders, safe and well.

CO 51FNQR Lt-Col Mick O’Sullivan said the battalion’s sol-diers are from community, so com-

munity see their family – soldiers – on checkpoints protecting them.

“I would expect elders are extremely proud of their young peo-ple stepping up in a time of crisis and assisting in protecting the com-munity,” Lt-Col O’Sullivan said.

English is not the first language for many community members, so having a soldier who can speak the local language at a checkpoint is beneficial.

“In recent years we refocused on partnering with communities across the Cape, Gulf, Torres Strait, Tablelands and Daintree,” Lt-Col O’Sullivan said.

“This partnering with communi-ties builds the confidence that when young men and women from com-munity join 51, they will be looked after, trained and supported.

“That approach has been vin-dicated with 51FNQR seeing the largest single year of recruitment throughout 2019, with 94 soldiers recruited.

“Most are soldiers from com-munities at the highest risk from COVID-19 and many of these sol-diers are now deployed as part of the COVID-19 task force, protecting country on checkpoints.”

Protecting country in difficult times

Lee Smallwood at D Coy, 51 Far North Queensland Depot, Mount Isa.

Side-by-sideCDF Gen Angus Campbell, with a member of 51FNQR, at the launch of the 2019-22 Defence Reconciliation Action Plan at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, in 2019. Photo: Lauren Larking

Cpl Julia Whitwell

C E L E B R AT I N G N a t i o n a l Reconciliation Week (NRW) will look a little different this year, as the theme “In this together” plays out in unforeseen ways due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Held annually between May 27 and June 3, NRW celebrates build-ing respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and non-Indigenous Australians.

With social distancing measures in place, Defence Indigenous Affairs (DIA) is offering virtual activities, in support of the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan (D-RAP) 2019-22.

DIA’s Virtual NRW activities include trivia, book and film clubs, videos and an art competition.

Compiling the trivia was Kamilaroi

and Dhungatti man Zac Wright-Duke, from the DIA project support team.

“It’s hard to say whether people will find the questions difficult or easy,” Mr Wright-Duke said.

“There’s a lot of stuff I would con-sider common knowledge, but I real-ise some of that is what I’ve learnt through my Indigenous culture – and not everyone would come across some of that knowledge in their everyday lives.

“Some quest ions are gener-ally about NRW, but there are other questions about history, sport, enter-tainment and geography – all with Indigenous relevance.”

The trivia, just like the other activi-ties, aims to increase learning and par-ticipation in Indigenous cultures.

“They’re fun activities. It’ll give people an idea of what their Indigenous cultural understanding is

like and the opportunity to expand on it,” Mr Wright-Duke said.

“If people don’t know the answers, they’ll get to learn them during the game.”

D I A I n d i g e n o u s A f f a i r s project officer Kate Weber said the film club offered a list of movies and documentaries.

“It supports the community as a whole,” Ms Weber said.

“People watching these films can understand the culture, histori-cal events and past policies, all while supporting Indigenous people in their craft within the entertainment industry.”

For a list of National Reconciliation Week activi-ties visit: http://drnet.defence.gov.au/People/Diversity/Indigenous-Affairs/Pages/Indigenous-Affairs.aspx

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May 28, 2020 National Reconciliation Weekdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 5

Sgt Sebastian Beurich

AFTER five years as Army’s Indigenous Elder, and as he approaches his 80th birthday, Uncle Roy Mundine is stepping back from official duties, leading to the appointment of Aunty Lorraine Hatton.

This came as something of a shock to Aunty Lorraine, who was so nervous when she received the letter she had her husband open it.

“I know it’s a very prestigious position, so I was extremely honoured the Chief would entrust me with this appointment,” Aunty Lorraine said.

“I’ve known Uncle Roy for a long time and he’s such a lovely man, so I have some big shoes to fill, but I look forward to the challenge.”

Aunty Lorraine served 20 years as an operations signaller and radio operator in RASigs, before retiring in 2007 as a WO2.

While the role of Army Indigenous

Elder focuses on engaging both soldiers and Indigenous communities, it’s also about advising CA and storytelling to soldiers.

“Education is a key perspective, but not just that; it’s about culture and history too,” Aunty Lorraine said.

Her work includes mentoring young women for the Preston

Campbell Foundation and she is patron of the Indigenous Youth Mobility Pathways Project, helping young people from remote locations attend school.

Aunty Lorraine is also the chair of Queensland’s first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander memorial for veterans and serving members.

“I think it’s the combination of my Army career

and my involvement with community that will allow me to do the role of Indigenous Elder well,” she said.

The appointment coincides with National Reconciliation Week, seeking that all Australians further their education on history, culture and shared achievements.

Moving Army forward

‘I think it’s the combination of my Army career and

my involvement with community that will allow me to do the role of Indigenous

Elder well.– Aunty Lorraine Hatton,

Army Indigenous Elder

Army’s new Indigenous Elder, Aunty Lorraine Hatton, is honoured to be entrusted with her new appointment.

LS Kylie Jagiello

WHEN CA needs advice on Indigenous issues he has a cross section of people to call on.

The Army Indigenous Cultural A d v i s o r y B o a r d ( A I C A B ) provides cultural expertise on the implementation of CA Directive 13/19 Enhancing Army Capability through Indigenous Service and Connection.

Chaired by Maj-Gen Steve Meekin, the board consists of Indigenous members of various ranks, service categories, gender and locations.

A n y A r m y i n i t i a t i v e o n I n d i g e n o u s m a t t e r s c a n b e passed through the board for comment and advice to CA and his senior leadership group before implementation.

E a c h R e g i o n a l F o r c e Surveillance Unit is represented and standing members include the Army Indigenous Elder, OIC Regional Indigenous Liaison Officer (RILO) network, RILO Cultural Adviser, a specialist Indigenous recruiting representative and Kapooka’s Indigenous mentor.

Longstanding board member Maj Joseph West led the Indigenous contingent to Lone Pine in 2015 as part of the Centenary of Anzac Honouring Warrior Spirits project.

“This was a major reconciliation milestone in recognising serving

members who died overseas and hadn’t received correct pastoral care,” Maj West said.

“Many Indigenous families who had serving members during WWI and WWII remember how badly they were treated when they returned.”

Recently, Maj West coordinated gifting of The Ode in Murrawarri language to CA.

The gift ing process went through the AICAB as well as the elders group of the Murrawarri tribe – a lengthy consultation over a number of years.

“The Ode was spoken in the

Murrawarri language at one of the Honouring Warrior Spirits ceremonies to return soil from Gallipoli, which started this conversation,” Maj West said.

“The elders of the Murrawarri tribe offered to gift The Ode to the Army for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to use as appropriate.

“This was significant as it wasn’t just gifting a language but a piece of their culture.”

The AICAB is refreshed every three years or when a vacancy occurs and any Indigenous member can volunteer.

A show of leadership

Maj Joseph West, left, and Cpl Terry Walker collect soil from sites around the Gallipoli Peninsula in 2015. Photo: Sgt Jake Sims

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THIS year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, In this together, reflects the achievements and

relationships forged across northern Australia between the Regional Force Surveillance Group (RFSG), Indigenous communities and Indigenous soldiers, both serving and enlisting.

The RFSG was established in October 2018, and has assumed command of Army’s three Regional Force Surveillance Units, namely 51FNQR, Norforce, and The Pilbara Regiment.

These units monitor the remote landmass and waterways of Australia’s north and north-west, drawing on local knowledge of the significant numbers of Indigenous Army Reserve soldiers who make up the bulk of the force.

Commander RFSG Col John Papalitsas said the group was tasked with “protecting the border and Closing the Gap”, which are strategic priorities for the Australian Government and the ADF.

“Protecting the border is an ongoing, real-time operational commitment that contributes to the nation’s sovereignty over its northern boarders,” Col Papalitsas said.

“Closing the Gap is a government initiative to deliver better health, education and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“RFSG deliver outcomes that support these priorities through the deployment of our patrols into the field, and with the training and employment of our personnel.”

Of infinite value to the RFSG and the broader Army are the Indigenous men and women who join as soldiers.

However, some potential recruits may be disadvantaged by the circumstances of their remoteness, such as insufficient schooling or fitness.

To support these individuals, Army has established three Indigenous Pathway Programs: the Army Indigenous Development Program (AIDP), the Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP) and the RFSG

Education and Development Course (REDC).

The AIDP is a five-month program for those who do not currently meet the general-entry standards for Army, and assists in developing education, aptitude, fitness and resilience skills.

The IPRP is a six-week program for those who meet the general-entry standards, but need to develop confidence, resilience and fitness standards before commencing.

Individuals participating in these programs are enlisted into the Army,

given full medical and dental support, and after their training and mentorship are ready for acceptance into recruit training at Kapooka.

For those wishing to remain in the north with RFSUs, there is an opportunity for an RFSU commanding officer to waive one or more enlistment requirements and have the individual placed on the Regional

Force Surveillance List (RFSL).

To improve trade and promotion prospects, recruits can then attend a second pathway program, of 12-weeks – the RFSG Education and Development Course (REDC).

The REDC and the AIDP are delivered from the RFSG Training and Education Centre (RTEC), 15km east of Darwin at Defence Establishment, Berrimah, NT.

The RTEC opened its doors in March last year and is designed to provide a centre of excellence for Army’s Regional Force Surveillance Capability, including RFSG Trade Training and Indigenous Pathway Programs.

Previously, the programs were delivered at the Batchelor Institute,

located more than 100km from the Army units at Larrakeyah and in Roberson Barracks. RTEC

is also home to RFSU Trade Training from the rank of patrol 2IC to patrol master.

Maj Joe Kelly, who is responsible for the design, development and management of training at HQ RFSG, said the REDC had gained such a positive reputation that recent courses have been fully filled.

“Contributing to the success of RTEC has been the move to Berrimah, where we can access the support of Army units at Larrakeyah and in Robertson Barracks, including the use

May 28, 2020 National Reconciliation Weekdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 7

of physical training instructors,” Maj Kelly said.

“RTEC is also the location for RFSU trade promotion courses and will gradually expand to support other specialist training and simulation. The centralisation of RFSU training will benefit our soldiers through the standardisation of instruction to students.

“Previously, the training of soldiers in the regions could differ because of the terrain in their patrol areas. Some soldiers were proficient at watercraft skills, but were lacking in vehicle skills because of their operating environment. The reverse is true of other regions.

“Drawing personnel from the three RFSUs creates an environment where we can deliver training in all aspects at the highest level possible to everyone, which strengthens the capabilities of our dispersed units and sub-units.”

Transformation of the RTEC building for its current purpose speaks volumes of its significance to its students.

Prior to its renovation, it had been sailors’ accommodation and then a detention facility. It was then left unused for years before refurbishment began.

Maj Kelly said the main RTEC building revealed evidence of what it meant to the local Darwin community to complete the renovation.

“While work was in progress you could see the pride in the workers’ faces when they told you how they sourced raw mahogany to complete the orderly room benchtop, or convinced

a friend to include a stained-glass representation of the RFSG crest in the front door,” he said.

“Then, just as they were finishing, we had men from the local Larrakia Nation complete the two-storey mural behind the flag station (see cover image).

“The standard of workmanship on the RTEC building has become a bricks-and-mortar representation of the commitment Army and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have to each other.”

The synergy between communities, the RFSG and Indigenous soldiers also expands into the broader Army, offering opportunities for soldiers to serve as the staff who make the pathways such a success.

Maj Kelly said it was a priceless experience to become an instructor and see a young Indigenous adult go from being unready to join the Army to becoming a uniformed soldier ready to serve the nation on a full-time or part-time basis.

“Some of them come from tough backgrounds and need a good leader during this influential period,” Maj Kelly said.

“Others lack confidence and all want to find what they are capable of.

“They’ll remember what you did for them and one day when you see them with two hooks or a crown on their chest, you’ll know you made a difference.”

For more information for the RFSG and the Indigenous Pathways Programs, visit army.gov.au/our-people/army-indigenous-community

Synergy in the north

National Reconciliation Week offers an opportunity to learn about, and reflect on, the contributions made by Indigenous Australians to the defence and security of our nation, Maj Cameron Jamieson reports.

Soldiers from the Regional Force Surveillance Unit use G-Wagon surveillance and reconnaissance vehicles during a training activity in Alice Springs, 2017. Photo: Cpl Nunu Campos

CA Lt-Gen Rick Burr talks to soldiers from Norforce, 51 FNQR and The Pilbara Regiment following the parade celebrating the formation of Regional Force Surveillance Group at Larrakeyah Barracks, Darwin, 2018. Photo: Sgt Sebastian Beurich

Lt Rebecca Blurton, of The Pilbara Regiment, leads a patrol during a training activity near Karratha, Western Australia, in 2017. Photo: Sgt Nunu Campos

May 28, 2020 National Reconciliation Weekdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 9

Mentoring for the futureCpl Veronica O’Hara

AT FIRST glance, Sgt Annie Dufficy might look too young to fit the image, but she’s gained a title of reverence from her extended family.

Due to her position in Army and the community, Sgt Dufficy is also seen as a mentor by junior Indigenous soldiers.

“I have nephews and nieces who are enlisting and although some are not related, they call me ‘Aunty’ out of respect for my position,” Sgt Dufficy said.

Sgt Dufficy is teaching leadership as an instructor on Subject One Corporal courses.

“After this I’ll probably head back to trade in an orderly room. The different roles make it exciting and I learn a new job each time,” she said.

Her grandfather served in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion, while her father and two brothers were also infantrymen.

Sgt Dufficy’s family is from Badu Island in the Torres Strait, but she grew up in Townsville, with strong Army connections.

Seeing the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags is a symbol of reconciliation for Sgt Dufficy.

“The flags represent all our people and flying them together unifies our strength as a nation, and is what I believe to be the meaning of reconciliation,” she said.

Sgt Dufficy takes special meaning from the 1967 referendum and Mabo decision, both commemorated during National Reconciliation Week.

“It recognises the hard work and sacrifices made for the many elders behind the referendum that led to Indigenous people being counted in the Australian Census,” she said.

“The fight Uncle Koiki Mabo endured for land rights in the famous High Court Mabo decision is momentous for any Torres Strait Islander like me.

“I pay my respects to what they did and the opportunities we have as

Indigenous Australians today, such as the basic opportunity to have an education.”

Sgt Dufficy believes everyone has a role to play in building relationships that value Indigenous histories and cultures.

“Every time I visit family up north I’m always learning new things about my people and culture and I love showing my son his heritage,” she said.

“I find it inspiring when my colleagues want to learn about interacting with Indigenous soldiers and ask me for advice on understanding their cultures.”

Sgt Annie Dufficy on deployment in the Middle East. Photo: Cpl Dan Pinhorn

Cpl Julia Whitwell

A NETWORK of officers and warrant officers is aiming to bring Army closer to Indigenous communities.

These Regional Indigenous Liaison Officers (RILOs) are the link between commanders and elders, providing advice on culture, protocols and how best to engage with Indigenous communities.

SA and Tasmania RILO, WO1 Eddie Schlegel, said it was a significant commitment with a simple premise.

“We have one job and that is to maintain a connection with the Indigenous people of Australia,” WO1 Schlegel said.

“We’re only as good as our relationship with the elders and those relationships are enduring.”

RILOs serve as SERCAT 5 reservists – ensuring they maintain the link with their community rather than posting out – and are responsible for assisting all Army units in their region.

WO1 Schlegel praised JLU South, JMCO, 1CSST, 16ALR, 10/27RSAR and 7RAR for their “outstanding” work with communities.

Among the engagement activities in SA was Exercise

Thura Yura, resilience training hosted by 7RAR in November last year, which included kayaking, abseiling and a “story-walk” themed navigation challenge.

“We had 30 participants from between Ceduna, Whyalla and Port Lincoln,” WO1 Schlegel said.

“These young men and women were so engaged in their interactions with the soldiers – it’s the most rewarding thing, seeing the smiles on their faces.

“The Uncles and Aunties teach the soldiers about the land – what they can eat, learning about the history. The soldiers get a lot out of it.”

WO1 Schlegel said smaller engagement activities were equally important for the Army-Indigenous bond.

“It is an enduring effort, something that needs to be established and maintained, and that takes years,” he said.

“Even if it’s one soldier that goes to spend time in a local community, or inviting Indigenous members to talk to the unit from time to time – it’s about relationship building.

“Every unit has a responsibility to engage with its local Indigenous communities, and as RILOs we’re here to help.”

Building connections with local communities

Pte Jacob Joseph

NEWLY arrived recruits stand nerv-ously in a group at Blamey Barracks, 1RTB, awaiting direction from instructors.

Their first task: march up to the Kapooka yarning circle for a Welcome to Country by the Kapooka Aunty, a Wiradjuri Elder who supports Indigenous recruits.

These particular recruits are part of the Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP).

In six weeks, some may transition from development program to recruit course, armed with the skills for Army life.

The IPRP and other programs, such as the Army Indigenous Development Program (AIDP), a im to give Indigenous Australians the best chance of success in Defence.

OC Recruit Development Wing Maj Sarah Bawden said without the programs, these recruits potentially couldn’t enlist.

“There have been 187 Indigenous personnel complete the AIDP and IPRP and march out of Kapooka since 2016,” Maj Bawden said.

Both programs’ goals are the same, but cater to different potential soldiers.

IPRP is a six-week course to build recruits’ mental resilience and physical fitness, while AIDP runs for 17 weeks helping participants meet entry education standards.

“The main component of AIDP is a Certificate II in workplace skills, the equivalent of Year 10 maths and English,” Maj Bawden said.

“We also develop their physical fitness, confidence and resilience through a range of activities – with cultural components integrated – and give them an introduction to military skills.”

Kapooka Indigenous Liaison Officer and mentor WO2 Jack Brunker said AIDP addressed a shortfall in schooling.

Life-changing programs

“For some, Year 8 is their highest level of education,” WO2 Brunker said.

“To join the Army, the minimum education requirement is Year 10, resulting in many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people not having the opportunity to join.

“The ones that complete AIDP are very proud, both culturally and

personally, because they finish with a certificate that provides a future foundation.”

The AIDP gave a new perspective on Army and education to Yarrabah

Gunggandji woman Pte Shanika Murgha, despite being away from home.

Now posted to 3CER, Pte Murgha said coming from a small Indigenous

community, made the program more rewarding.

“The biggest challenge was being away from my family for so long, but I got to see what’s out there and Army gave me some structure,” Pte Murgha said.

“I plan on staying in Defence. I want to study more and go on to get a degree.”

Yamaji and Wongi man Pte James Dodd, now a 1RAR infantryman, said the IPRP was a way to give Indigenous soldiers a head start before they joined recruits at Kapooka.

“We had lessons on how to march, we went on adventure training and we did shooting practice,” Pte Dodd said.

“It gave us a comfortable environment and helped people come out of their shell before they went over and did the real thing.”

After the IPRP, Pte Dodd finished the Army Recruit Course, winning the Cameron Baird VC Award for most outstanding soldier.

“I’d like to see the [IPRP] expanded so more Indigenous soldiers have a chance to get involved,” Pte Dodd said.

“I’d also like to go back to Kapooka as a section commander and help instruct recruits.”

While the programs can boost the number of new soldiers, those involved believe the real success is less visible.

“We can see the difference from day one to the day we send them over to 1RTB; they’re different people,” WO2 Brunker said.

For Maj Bawden, the main benefit is the programs’ life-changing effects.

“The best part of my job is seeing the amazing development in the trainees to the soldiers that they become,” she said.

Rifleman Pte James Dodd, of 1RAR, is a member of the Direct Fire Support Weapon Platoon; and inset, storeperson Pte Shanika Murgha, of 3CER, conducts an inspection to register a piece of equipment for disposal at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville. Photos: Pte Madhur Chitnis

May 28, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews10

GEORGE Beale and his younger brother Frederick enlisted together in the Australian Imperial Force in June 1941. Only one of them made it home from the war.

The brothers, from Quirindi in NSW, were sent with 2/20 Bn to

THE theme of this year’s National Reconciliation Week, from May 27 to June 3, is “In this

together” and this is a chance for Army to tell the stories of some of the Indigenous soldiers who are an important part of our shared military history.

The week is about understanding our past and moving forward to a better future for all Australians. This was understood by our first Indigenous soldiers who volunteered to serve our country.

At the outbreak of WWI,

large numbers of Indigenous Australians answered the call to enlist. Not all volunteers were accepted as the Defence Act prevented people not substantially of European origin or descent from enlisting.

Despite this, more than 1000 Indigenous Australians served our country during the war.

In Army, Indigenous soldiers were generally accepted without prejudice and had the same pay and conditions as other soldiers.

Many experienced equality for the first times in their lives and hoped this would continue after the war. Unfortunately, on

their return they found the same prejudice and discrimination as before.

One of our strongest assets as Australian soldiers is our mateship.

These people had the courage to volunteer, to fight and in some cases to die for a country that did not recognise them as equal citizens.

These stories highlight that mateship and dedication.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised these pages may contain images or content referring to deceased people. It may also contain words or descriptions that may be deemed culturally sensitive. The term “Indigenous” refers to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

MATES AND SERVICE FIRST

George and Frederick Beale

Two brothers went to war – only one returned

BILL Coolburra was one of the legendary “Tunnel Rats” in the Vietnam War, serving with 3 Field Troop and 1 Field Squadron. He was wounded twice in Vietnam – through asphyxiation in a tunnel at Ho-Bo Woods in January 1966, and by a booby trap in March 1966.

From Palm Island in Far North Queensland, Mr Coolburra joined the Army in 1964 and served in Borneo in 1964-65, Vietnam in 1965-66, Malaya in 1967-68 and Singapore in 1971-73. He spent a total of 16 years in the Army and was well known for his good nature and infectious laugh.

Mr Coolburra became close mates with “Snowy” George Wilson – nicknamed for his fair skin and hair – and they famously became known as the “twins”, even referring to each other as “twin brother”.

On a visit to Vietnam, Prime Minister Harold Holt asked to meet “Snowy’s twin

brother” and was shocked to find out he was an Aboriginal person.

As soldiers, they faced many life-and-death situations together in the field. At home in Australia, years later, when Mr Coolburra needed a new kidney, Mr Wilson gave him his.

Mr Coolburra was highly respected in the north Queensland community for supporting and mentoring Indigenous youth, encouraging them to participate in sport as a pathway to a healthy and purposeful life.

More than 500 people attended his funeral on Palm Island in 2009, where he was honoured with a three-volley salute at the grave site by 3CER.

The Bill Coolburra Shield, an annual rugby league match between the Palm Island Skipjacks and Army Thunder, started in 2008 as a way of strengthening the relationship between Army and the Indigenous community of Palm Island.

Bill Coolburra

Dedication of an unlikely twin

Bill Coolburra in Vietnam in 1966.Photos: Supplied by the Australian War Memorial

George Beale, left, and his brother Frederick, right.

Cpl Tim Hughes was decorated for his courageous service.

National Reconciliation Weekdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 11

FRANK Fisher made a name for himself as a rugby league player and was the great-grandfather of Olympic gold medallist Cathy Freeman. But not before he served his country during WWI.

Mr Fisher, from Claremont in Queensland, enlisted in the 28th Reinforcements to the 11th Light Horse Regiment in August 1917.

At the time of his enlistment, he lived with his wife Esme and three children from his first marriage at the Barambah Settlement, Queensland (renamed Cherbourg Aboriginal Settlement in 1931).

He embarked the troopship Ulysses with his regiment in December 2017. After landing at Suez, he was trans-ferred to the 4th Light Horse Training Regiment at Moascar, Egypt, and returned to his original regiment in April 1918.

After returning to Australia on the troopship Morvada in July 1919, he became well known as the rugby league player “King” Fisher, playing at five-eighth in representative teams for Wide Bay and against touring teams from Great Britain in 1932 and 1936.

GEORGE Beale and his younger brother Frederick enlisted together in the Australian Imperial Force in June 1941. Only one of them made it home from the war.

The brothers, from Quirindi in NSW, were sent with 2/20 Bn to

defend the Malay Peninsula. They became prisoners of war at the fall of Singapore and, after being held captive in Changi camp, were sent to Japan to work in the Naoetsu Camp.

George worked in a steel mill

under extremely harsh conditions and died in May 1943 from injuries he received after being dragged into a machine.

He was the second of 60 Australians to die in the Naoetsu Camp between 1943 and March

1944. Frederick survived the camp and returned to Australia in 1945.

The following year, he and his wife welcomed another son and named him Donald George Beale, in honour of the uncle who had not come home.

IT TOOK three attempts for the enemy to bring down decorated WWI hero Cpl Harry Thorpe.

Born at the Lake Tyers Mission Station near Lakes Entrance in Victoria, Cpl Thorpe enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force and joined the 17th Reinforcements to 7 Bn on the way to the Western Front.

After two weeks of fighting, he was evacuated with a gunshot wound to his leg.

In January 1917, Cpl Thorpe was promoted to lance corporal and went on to fight in the Battle of Bullecourt, where he received a gunshot wound to the shoulder.

Later that year, he was involved in the operations near Ypres in Belgium. His great courage and leadership earned him a Military Medal and promotion to corporal.

During the great offensive of August 1918, Cpl Thorpe was seriously wounded in the stomach during the battle at Lihons and died shortly afterwards. He was 34.

Cpl Thorpe is buried in the large Heath Cemetery near Harbonnieres, a few kilometres from where he fell, next to his friend William Rawlings, who died on the same day.

ONE of the Rats of Tobruk who saw service in Libya, New Guinea and Borneo, Cpl Tim Hughes was awarded the Military Medal for his actions during a battle in New Guinea in 1942.

Born in 1919 at Point Pearce Aboriginal Community on Yorke Peninsula, and a member of the Narannga Aboriginal community of South Australia, Cpl Hughes served from 1939 to 1945 with 9 Pl of 2/10 Bn.

As the battalion advanced in support of American units at the Buna Airfield in New Guinea in 1942, his platoon was pinned down by machine-gun fire. Cpl Hughes climbed on top of a dispersal bay and, despite coming under concentrated fire from three directions, threw grenades at two Japanese posts. Using a sub-machine gun, he then

protected his comrades while they took cover. He made three sorties to silence the enemy’s weapons, enabling the platoon to consolidate its position.

His citation states he “showed remarkable bravery, exceptional coolness and initiative. His total disregard for his own safety set a fine example through the Platoon and also throughout the Company”.

Cpl Hughes was wounded at Sanananda in January 1943 and later that year promoted to corporal.

In the 1950s, he took up a soldier settlers’ farm in south-east South Australia, which he named Bhoodkayana, the traditional name of the Point Pearce Aboriginal Community lands he came from, and in 1970 was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire.

MATES AND SERVICE FIRST

George and Frederick Beale

Two brothers went to war – only one returned

Cpl Harry Thorpe

Three shots before he fell

Cpl Tim Hughes

Courage and coolness

Frank Fisher

In a league of his own

George Beale, left, and his brother Frederick, right.

Cpl Harry Thorpe was

killed in action in 1918 after

earning the Military Medal.

Frank Fisher became a renowned rugby league player after WWI.

Cpl Tim Hughes was decorated for his courageous service.

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May 28, 2020 National Reconciliation Weekdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 13

LS Kylie Jagiello

A DESIRE for “stability and a future” in his career led LCpl Colin Rogan to join Army in 2002.

“When I enlisted, I was able to draw on the resilience and adapt-ability my Aboriginal culture pro-vided me growing up,” LCpl Rogan said.

When it comes to reconciliation, LCpl Rogan feels strongly about youth diversion, to keep young Indigenous people productively focused.

“If there were bodies of busi-nesses working together to create programs for our Indigenous youth, it would be a start to prevent them from getting into trouble,” LCpl Rogan said.

“It firstly shows them there are opportunities for them to get work and gain real employment.

“In turn, you’re providing eco-nomic advancement for that individual.”

LCpl Rogan feels a good avenue for Defence and other businesses to tap into would be the land and sea ranger groups.

“A lot of people in these groups work part time and could pos-sibly join Defence in a reserve capacity with the Regional Force Surveillance Group,” he said.

“A lot of them already have their coxswain tickets and computer skills.

“Vice versa they could come over to Defence and pick up skills to take back to the ranger groups.”

Closer to home, LCpl Rogan is

LS Kylie Jagiello

WHEN new recruits put on the green skin with Regional Force Surveillance Unit Norforce, patrolman Cpl James Woods emphasises the words “your force, our force” in reconciliation with protecting country together.

“Once you put the Army green on, we are all one family,” Cpl Woods said.

“When I get the opportuni-ty to instruct, I like to compare the enlistment process to an Indigenous ceremony, to help new recruits understand.”

Norforce patrols a large area of operations, relying on the commit-ment and local knowledge of northern Australia’s Indigenous population.

Cpl Woods is from the Gurindji people , loca ted south-west of Katherine in the Northern’s Territory’s Victoria River region.

Working 1000km from the clos-est recruiting centre, Cpl Woods was unable to enlist in the Army in 1992 but achieved his goal in 2006.

“My enthusiasm to join the Army came from my Aboriginal back-ground,” he said.

“Caring for our country and pro-tecting our land.”

Cpl Woods was Norforce’s “Soldier of the Year” in 2009, noted for his commitment and professionalism.

“Reconciliation is about trying to close the gap and stopping the segrega-tion that happens,” he said.

“We’re not going to achieve this if we are always separated; we need to be educating people to get out of that mentality and realise we are one.”

Norforce’s motto may be “tradi-tional values, modern warrior”, but Cpl Woods sees himself as a traditional warrior with modern values.

Cpl James Woods was a Regional Force Surveillance Unit Patrol Commander during Exercise Northern Shield 2015.Photo: Sgt Janine Fabre

making sure his kids learn about their culture as Aranda people.

“My grandmother was part of the stolen generation but she still tried to raise us with our culture and I want my kids to know it too,” he said.

“She was taken to Croker Island and was there in 1942 when the Japanese bombed.

“All the kids had to be evacu-ated from the island and there has been a documentary produced about it.”

In 2016, LCpl Rogan attended the 50th anniversary of the Wave

Hill walk-off at Kalkarindji. This was the first protest by Indigenous Australians over land rights to attract wide public support.

“This showed we are in it together and that Australia has made progress in the past 50 years towards reconciliation of Indigenous people,” LCpl Rogan said.

“There is still work to be done but the whole of Australia needs to work together with where we want to be 50 to 100 years from now.”

Leading the way for Indigenous youth

LCpl Colin Rogan reflects on what reconciliation means to him.

Working better together

Worthy promotion for Ngarluma sergeantNGARLUMA woman Maria Martin-Pedersen has been promoted to sergeant after joining The Pilbara Regiment in 2017 to serve as a part-time local observer.

Born and raised in Broome, she learnt about Army life, balancing her civilian job as a health programs manager.

“My work with Mawarnkarra Health Services in Roebourne focuses on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing in the West Pilbara,” Sgt Martin-Pedersen said.

“Previous work as a health and safety officer provided me with the opportunity to work throughout remote mining camps in East Pilbara, enabling me to develop an under-standing of challenges faced in this region.

“I also have experience working in remote Kimberley communities around governance and compliance matters.”

Sgt Martin-Pedersen developed strategies to connect Army to local Indigenous communities including regiment cultural awareness training and advising commanders in their relationships with Indigenous elders and communities.

“My involvement with The Pilbara Regiment highlighted the valuable partnership that is possible between the regiment and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the regions,” she said.

As a senior field officer with the Australian National University, Sgt Martin-Pedersen recently conducted a national study on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family and com-munity safety.

She also lectures at the university and delivers training in government agencies, which enhanced her lived understanding of the challenges facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.

“This, as well as completing my diplomacy training in Timor Leste, strengthened my existing resolve to support our young people as much as possible,” Sgt Martin-Pedersen said.

“It has been rewarding to see the expressions when the regiment partici-pates in community.

“I look forward to future opportuni-ties to inform community about the possibilities of positive engagement.”

Recently , she combined her mili-tary and civilian role to support the WA Government emergency measures in place to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Sgt Martin-Pedersen receives her certificate of promotion.

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Critical Jobs14

Cpl Julia Whitwell

STANDING at the frontline of online security is a force of soldiers working to detect, investigate and protect against threats to Defence computer networks.

Sig Jacob Greenberg, of 138 Sig Sqn, said the role of a cyber analyst was to perform defensive cyber opera-tions within the Army’s systems and platforms.

Cyber analysts’ main functions are referred to as hunt, forensics and vul-nerability assessment.

“Within ‘hunt’ we scan networks and look for malicious activity, like a virus, and put a stop to it,” Sig Greenberg said.

“Forensics requires you to look at a hard drive image for any indicators of compromise and tell-tale signs of an adversary’s actions that we can use to work out why they’re there and what they’re trying to do.

“Vulnerability assessment is about working out the vulnerabilities of our networks to inform a mission com-mander of what risks there are.”

With a strong hobbyist background in information security, Sig Greenberg’s drive to learn steered him towards an Army career.

“I might have had a go at more generic routes to learn what I’m doing, like formal tertiary education, but Army offers world-class information systems training – it’s a huge opportunity,” he said.

“The cool thing about defensive cyber operations is our trade craft is shaped by industry and open-source information.

“I can learn about the principles and improve my skills at home, then come into work to apply them.”

Cpl Andrew Markley, also of 138 Sig Sqn, said cyber teams work and learn collaboratively.

“You have to be able to draw on past experiences and overlay what you have learnt onto a new situation,” Cpl Markley said.

“Here we draw a lot out of each other in that sense. It’s such a broad field; there’s always something else to learn. It’s really rewarding to be able to work in teams of high-performing individuals.”

Anyone interested in a corps transfer to Cyber Analyst (ECN 664) should complete a PE166-1 or email plan.caduceus@defence.gov.au for more information.

Securing our cyber network

Sig Alana Mannix, of 7CSR, studies cyber defence operations at the University of New South Wales, Canberra. Photo: Sgt Mark Doran

Comms at the readySgt Sebastian Beurich

IF BEING on the tools and running the backbone of Army’s networks sounds appealing, a career change to Telecommunications Technician might be the way to go.

As an ECN 665 you’ll learn about a range of specialisations, receive industry-standard qualifi-cations and numerous posting options.

Sig Matthew Clarke, of 3CSR, said the trade was about setting up and maintaining communica-tions infrastructure to support soldiers wherever they were.

“It’s very much a knowledge-based trade with the bonus of being very hands on, unlike others, which may have less time on the equipment” Sig Clarke said.

“It’s on the tools, working on servers, routers and switches, configuring what needs to be in the build, or working on satellite communications theory, which I quite enjoy.

“We’re using L3 satellite dishes at the moment, which we basically built from the ground up and configured to talk all around the globe, depending on what we’re doing and who we’re supporting.”

New equipment received in past years replaced big, bulky dishes like the STA, which Sig Clarke said took more time and manpower to set up.

“With today’s technology, things are much easier to set up and configure,” he said.

“It’s smaller, quicker and easier to use, which

means it’s easier to explain to people so they real-ise how you’re helping them.”

Civilian qualifications in network engineer-ing and cabling are a big drawcard for the trade, according to 7CSR’s Cpl Jackson Hill, but don’t substitute for time on the tools.

“A lot of it is on-the-job training. We learn on the ground, using the equipment, from those who have done it before,” Cpl Hill said.

“Our courses teach us a lot, but because it’s all certificate based, sometimes it’s not as relevant to what we do day-to-day.

“A lot of soldiers who haven’t done their sub-ject courses are more than capable of performing at a corporal’s skill level.”

Their skills in cabling, satellite communica-tions and routing integrate with the other RASigs trades, providing networks other systems use.

“We used to work on our own and you wouldn’t really understand who you were working or conversing with, whereas now we cross-train and understand parts of the other trades, which leads to a better capability,” Sig Clarke said.

“While we’re working on the routing or switches, the other trades will be doing their part and we’ll all meet in the middle.”

ECN 665 Telecommunications Technician is currently recruit-ing for in-service and ab-initio transfers. Email plan.caduceus@defence.gov.au for more information, or talk to your chain of command, or complete a PE166-1 to start the process.

Sig Shanae Gameau checks communication

equipment. Photo: Cpl Nunu Campos

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Sgt Sebastian Beurich

TECHNICAL applications of ECN 662 – Communication Systems Operator were a drawcard for 7CSR’s Cpl Joshua Border who said it was about more than just operating radios.

“Our primary role depends on which unit you’re posted to,” Cpl Border said.

“In a CSR you’re providing commu-nications from battlegroups to brigade, but if you go to a RFSU, you’re going to be more focused on training and pro-viding long-distance communications using HF radios or extending VHF.

“Even in a CSR, you could be work-ing in the Bde HQ main or forward detachments and acting as a net control station, or you could be working in a unit node and providing a higher com-mand link back.”

Like the other RASigs trades, “oper-ators” have seen a lot of new equipment arrive over the past five years, with the introduction of BMS and its supporting communications infrastructure.

Although operators specialise in the core functions of that equipment, much of it is similar to what soldiers already use in their units – AN/PRC-152s and 150s.

“For me, the best part of the job is getting down and playing with the equipment,” Cpl Border said.

“When I joined, we were still using Raven, so everything was fixed fre-quency and restricted to line-of-sight, whereas now everything is data heavy and voice isn’t utilised as much in the brigade context.

“Getting hands-on with equipment you’ve never used before and having the opportunity to develop the concepts and plans that come to fruition and are established as SOPs within Army is a great experience.”

With increased standardisation of equipment across Western forces, there are opportunities to work with allies during exercises domestically and abroad.

LCpl Ben Macfie, of 3CSR, said one career highlight was the Joint Warfare Assessment in the US last year, where he worked with Australia’s Five-Eyes partners.

“I had a blast while I was over there, really getting to see how our counter-parts work and employ their equip-ment,” LCpl Macfie said.

“The thing I found most different was the amount of technical ability we have at lower ranks.

“We had a lot of technical knowl-edge about the systems we were using.”

The 662s don’t often work alone, integrating their systems with those used by the other RASigs trades.

“We don’t necessarily rely on each other, but we’re definitely moving towards that,” LCpl Macfie said.

“Having the support of and work-ing with the other trades ensures our systems work together when we’re in the field.”

ECN 662 Communications Systems Operator is recruiting for in-service and ab-initio transfers. Email plan.caduceus@defence.gov.au for more information. Talk to your chain of command or complete a PE166-1 to start the process.

Communication is keySigs Luke Stuthridge and Brayden Hess, of 7CSR, establish a communication network to support Operation Bushfire Assist in January in the Corryong area, Victoria. Photo: Tpr Jonathan Goedhart

Sig Alex Elliott, of HMAS Adelaide’s Army establishment, relays information back to the ship during a non-combatant evacuation operation at HMAS Cerberus. Photo: PO Nina Fogliani

May 28, 2020 Critical Jobsdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 15

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Unit Affiliation within SERCAT 3 allows you to continue to play an important role in yourARA unit while pursuing your new civilian career and life outside full-time Army. Membersaffiliated with an ARA unit will continue to have access to the latest equipment and trainingwhile working on agreed projects or tasks under the direction of their commanding officer.You can keep doing what you know best, on flexible terms and with an ARA unit.

Remaining affiliated to your unit has a range of advantages, including:

Freedom to work when you want and where you wantMaintaining friendships with your matesFlexible work arrangements that allow you to keep contributing to your ARA unit whilepursuing your new civilian career or life outside full-time serviceWorking up to 100 days per year to maintain a flexible income from ArmyFunded travel to your unit’s location if you do not live in the same localityContinuing to work and train with an ARA team and the equipment and platforms thatare not available in Reserve unitsMaintaining your qualifications, skills and experienceOpportunities to keep working with your mates and those you know and trust

Speak to your chain of command to find out what opportunities are available to you, andcomplete webform AC853 - Application to Transfer Within or Separate from the ADF andrequest Unit Affiliation within SERCAT 3. Once affiliated to your unit and you haveaccepted a ‘project or ‘task’, your unit will then complete a DA26 - Application toUndertake Military Service Under Section 26 of the Defence Act 1903 and arrange anytravel you may need.

Features16

FLYING battle suits, swarms of combat drones and advanced artificial intelligence might be exciting on the big screen, but

Defence is treating similar concepts as deadly future realities.

Director of Joint Futures and Concepts in Force Exploration Branch Col Lara Troy said, “If it’s in a Marvel movie, it’s something we’re thinking about”.

Col Troy’s staff look to 2040 and beyond, forecasting what the future operating environment could look like, including geopolitics, threats, demographics and technology.

They construct alternative futures and develop concepts with Defence Science and Technology, academics, industry and allies, to see what situations the ADF could be fighting in.

“We have to apply a lens of realism, but be as open-minded as we can to achieve our aim,” Col Troy said.

“We’re looking for something we don’t know exists yet.”

Futures and Concepts aims to explore the future and not rule-out ideas that seem unrealistic

or unachievable today. The team welcomes insights and ideas of the future from any Defence personnel through its Force Exploration Hub – these could be in the form of papers or blogs.

Rank or time served is no barrier to submitting ideas.

“It might be the one idea that seems the most ridiculous that is actually the most important,” Col Troy said.

The hub engages with multiple thinkers to develop ideas, concepts and evidence to equip the future force to confront a world of “accelerated change and uncertainty”.

It contributes to capability decisions while building knowledge to support force structure plans and strategic assessments.

Program Leader Integrated Force at Defence Science and Technology Nigel McGinty said they were exploring how to turn science fiction into science fact.

“A common trait is for people to underestimate what technology can achieve today and overestimate future technology, so it’s important to be creative,” Dr McGinty said.

Ideas can also be submitted in response to DEFGRAMS and sometimes surveys are used to gather opinions.

Remote autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing and quantum computing are of interest, as are possible geopolitical developments and thoughts on key technologies.

“There are never too many good ideas. We welcome thoughts about the future that can be entertained,” Col Troy said.

“We then work back and apply a level of realism to see what’s actually possible for the ADF.”

While Col Troy didn’t believe Defence would operate a Marvel-inspired Helicarrier or Ironman’s armour by 2040, she did foresee the ADF workforce receiving a technical overhaul.

“The amount of technological change that’s coming will require different training and skill-sets and an increased workforce. It will change the face of the ADF,” she said.

To find of more or submit ideas, go to defence.gov.au/VCDF/Forceexploration/

Science fiction to science factForecasting potential operating environments is a key focus in getting our tech future ready, Sgt Max Bree reports.

Futures and Concepts is

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and not ruling-out ideas that seem

unrealistic today. Photo: Colin Anderson/

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Cadets are working towards a stronger future, Lt-Col Robert Barnes reports.

Supporting our cadets

Cadet Monty Lupton from Broome, WA, participates in this year’s Anzac Day dawn vigil.

AS PART of the national response to COVID-19, Australian Army Cadets (AAC) suspended all

physical aspects of its program in mid-March.

AAC HQ Deputy Commander Col Mitch Kent said the AAC was a resilient program.

“While our community-based and cadet activities have been sus-pended, a great deal of work con-tinues behind the scenes to ensure the AAC will be bigger and strong-er when current social distancing measures are relaxed,” Col Kent said.

“The AAC has developed, and is now implementing, a resilience plan designed for cadets and cadet support staff volunteers to remain engaged in a safe, meaningful and caring way.”

There are more than 18,000 Australians aged 12-18 years par-ticipating in the AAC program. They are supported by 1250 adult cadet staff volunteers and 225 Army and APS personnel, serving in more than 240 community and school-based units throughout the country.

“COVID-19 does not halt this program and we remain committed to the personal and professional development of our cadets and vol-unteers,” Col Kent said.

Key elements of the AAC resil-ience plan include a range of sup-port and development initiatives.

“There has been constant engagement and communication between cadets, their families and their leaders, and we’ve imple-mented online training and devel-opment initiatives,” Col Kent said.

He praised the initiative and dedication of the cadets and volun-teers during the recent Anzac Day commemorations.

“Anzac Day is a major event on the AAC calendar where our cadets take on a leading role in representing Army at commu-nity commemorations across the nation,” Col Kent said.

“This year was no exception, as cadets took post at their drive-ways in their uniforms as part of the RSL’s Light Up The Dawn on Anzac Day. It was a terrific effort and all those who took part are to be congratulated for bringing great credit upon themselves, the AAC and the Army.”

For more information on the Army cadets, visit armycadets.gov.au

A PREVIOUSLY unknown WWI officer has been identified as Capt Arthur Harold Appleby.

For more than 100 years, Capt Appleby’s family searched for his final resting place until it was con-firmed last month in the Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, Souchez, France.

In Hobart, Capt Appleby enlisted in the 12th Battalion during 1915, see-ing service at Gallipoli before fighting on the Western Front.

During the second Battle of Bullecourt, Capt Appleby was killed by shellfire while in the frontline trenches.

Some 10,000 Australians were killed, wounded or taken prisoner during the two battles against enemy defences at Bullecourt.

Capt Appleby’s final resting place was located thanks to the combined effort of his family, pri-vate researchers, Australian Army’s Unrecovered War Casualties team and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Defence Personnel Minister Darren Chester thanked all those involved in identifying Capt

1. Octothorpe. 2. Cyprus. 3. Mars & Murrie. 4. Elephants. 5. 12. 6. Nicolas Cage. 7. 9. 8. Leonardo Da Vinci. 9. Switzerland. 10. A puffling.

Answers

What does M&M stand for? (Q3) Photo: Amit Lahav on Unsplash

Unknown captain identified

Appleby’s grave, in particular, his grand-niece, Andrea Gerrard.

“Mrs Gerrard has campaigned for a considerable time to find the final resting place of her great-uncle and this announcement will bring great pride to her and her family,” Mr Chester said.

The Battles of BullecourtAustralian Army History Unit

The Battles of Bullecourt in April and May of 1917 were two of the bloodi-est battles of WWI. Four Australian divisions of I ANZAC Corps were part of the British 5th Army for the duration of the battle, under Sir Hubert Gough.

The first battle was fought over about nine hours and included the introduction of the tank to Australian troops – an advance in military technology that initially failed on the battlefield. This battle had huge casualties and more than 1170 soldiers captured.

Despite this, two brigades from the 4th Australia Division captured parts of the Hindenburg Line. Until

they were forced to withdraw, they held their position against numerous German attacks.

The second battle was fought over two weeks with preliminary artillery support and more than 7500 casualties. Against the odds and against numerous German counter-attacks, Australian and Allied Forces successfully captured parts of the German OG1 and OG2 trenches, and the village of Bullecourt.

Charles Bean wrote, “Bullecourt was the most brilliant of these achievements [in braving the odds], impressing enemy and friends alike; it was in some ways the stout-est achievement of the Australian soldier in France, carried through against the stubbornest enemy that ever faced him there”.

Capt Arthur Harold Appleby.

Quick-fire questions

Family finally find resting place of Captain Appleby, writes LS Kylie Jagiello.

1. What is the hashtag technically called? 2. Halloumi originated from which Mediterranean island country? 3. What does M&M stand for? 4. What is the only animal that can’t jump? 5. How many languages are written from right to left?

6. Who introduced Johnny Depp to acting?

7. How many players are on a baseball team?

8. Who invented scissors?

9. Which country consumes the most chocolate per capita?

10. What is a baby puffin called?

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Personnel18

Cpl Julia Whitwell

VIRTUAL processes and initial meetings with candidates online have been introduced to help DFR continue recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

Virtual YOU (your opportunities unlimited) sessions give candidates insight into roles most suited to them, based on their skills and interests.

YOU sessions, traditionally the

first step in recruitment, include an aptitude test, interview with a careers coach and a check of documents. These are now delivered online and by phone.

Deputy Director Recruiting Delivery Lt-Col James Matchett said this made the process more accessible – more than 7500 people have completed online aptitude testing sessions since DFR transitioned to the process in mid-April.

“Some applicants used to travel nine hours or more from remote parts of the country to get into a DFR centre and would have to do it all again for their assessment day,” Lt-Col Matchett said.

“Now they can take that initial step online to find out what roles are available to them.”

After a successful YOU session, applicants progress to assessment day – including a psychological interview,

medical examination and interview. Candidates attend the medical and psychological assessments in person but their interview is now conducted by phone.

“We’re minimising contact where we can to observe appropriate social distancing measures. Once restrictions are lifted the in-person interviews will resume so candidates can connect more and build a rapport with their interviewers,” Lt-Col Matchett said.

The move to online recruitment avenues was scheduled for later this year but was brought forward due to COVID-19.

“We are also conducting information sessions online, where applicants can ask ADF members about career paths and ADF life,” Lt-Col Matchett said.

For more information phone 13 19 01 or visit defencejobs.gov.au

Recruitment marches on

Online and virtual processes have been brought forward to keep recruits coming into the ADF.

More than 27,000 people have applied to join the ADF since December 2019.

2189 people joined between December 2019 and March 2020 – just 60 fewer than at the same time last year, despite the impact of bushfires and COVID-19.

Still signing up

Sgt Sebastian Beurich

RETIRING ADF personnel will soon have an extra three years to utilise the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) and can continue to contribute to ADF Super post-service after new legislation passed Parliament.

The Defence Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2020 passed both houses on May 14, amending the DHOAS Act 2008 and ADF Superannuation Act 2015.

The amendment to ADF Super legislation is expected to take effect from July 6, while the DHOAS amendments will be effective from the end of June.

Veterans’ Affairs Minister

Darren Chester said the changes to DHOAS would allow veterans extra time to find a suitable home before accessing the scheme.

“The current two-year limitation is not always enough time for veterans and their families,” he said, during the first reading of the Bill in Parliament.

“This change seeks to ensure they carefully consider their options after leaving the ADF without being rushed into purchasing a home for fear of losing their entitlement to the subsidy.”

Mr Chester said the intention behind the changes to ADF Super was intended to “align the fund with

broader industry superannuation arrangements”.

“This bill will clarify that ADF Super members who have left the ADF and who provided continuous full-time service for an uninterrupted period of at least 12 months can continue to make contributions,” he said.

“I encourage veterans and their families to take advantage of these changes.”

Changes to ADF Super do not affect DFRDB or MSBS.

More super time for vets

Retiring personnel will benefit from changes to the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme and ADF Super arrangements.

Note: this photo was taken before social distancing

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THE Queensland town of Normanton in the Gulf of Carpentaria is known for cattle and a strong connection to Indigenous culture.

More than half the population identify as Indigenous, including former local Sgt Rhiannon Busch and her family.

One of five children raised by her nanna and aunties, Sgt Busch went on to discover the benefits an ADF career can have for Indigenous people and their families. She then channelled this into her work as an Army specialist recruiter.

“My nanna was a proud Australian and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman and she made sure we knew our roots,” Sgt Busch said.

The ADF’s Specialist Recruiting team play a role in increasing Indigenous Australians’ representation in Defence.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people currently represent 3.4 per cent of the Army and 3 per cent of Australia’s population.

“As a specialist recruiter I get to travel to communities and interact with the locals,” Sgt Busch said.

“I get to share my story and the amazing experiences I’ve had in the ADF with hopes of inspiring the next generation of Indigenous Australians.

“I’ve also been able to connect with community and inspire others through sport.”

Rugby league was Sgt Busch’s first love as a child but she soon found her true calling in the AFL Auskick program.

Now a midfielder, Sgt Busch has captained the Army and ADF Aussie Rules teams and even ran out of the tunnel at Melbourne’s Docklands Stadium for an ADF women’s game.

“When I played my first game I had no clue what to do – see ball, get ball, kick ball. At the time I didn’t even understand why there were four poles at the end,” Sgt Busch said.

“My favourite thing about footy is the women I’ve met over the years and the sisterhood that we share.”

Sgt Busch is looking forward to combining her passion for footy with her role as a specialist recruiter to spread a message of unity. She is part of the community outreach program for Indigenous Defence Force AFL players and is on her local footy club’s reconciliation committee.

“Being on the committee, I gained a better understanding of reconciliation,” Sgt Busch said.

“One of my favourite things since joining the Army is mentoring young people through the community outreach program.

“During Reconciliation Week I will be reflecting on the past and having these conversations with people. Promoting what reconciliation is about is really important.”

Football has given Sgt Rhiannon Busch a way of connecting with community, LS Kylie Jagiello reports.

Sportdefence.gov.au/news/armynewsMay 28, 2020 19

Passing on the passion

Sgt Rhiannon Busch hopes her passion for both footy, above, and her work, left, will help her inspire the next generation of Indigenous Australians.Photos: Sgt Christopher Dickson andAB Bonny Gassner

Sgt Rhiannon Busch hopes her passion for footy will help her inspire the next generation of Indigenous Australians.Photo: Sgt Christopher Dickson

May 28, 2020

SPORT

PUNTING ON UNITY

Page 19

A footballer’s drive to spread the message of reconciliation