NNavya SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDESERVING AvUSTRALIA ... · T The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navyhe official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy In the August

SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDESERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDE

NavyNavyVolume 53, No. 16, September 2, 2010 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian NavyVolume 53, No. 16, September 2, 2010 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy

EX KAKADU KICKS OFF IN DARWIN P2 / MELBOURNE SAILS FOR SLIPPER CENTRE

GOOD WILLGOOD WILLADF personnel assigned to

Pacific Partnership 2010 (PP10) left Dili, East Timor on August 24 following the

successful completion of the two-week humanitarian assistance mis-sion as part of the annual US-led endeavour.

During the mission 25 ADF personnel embarked in USNS Mercy and the crews of HMA Ships Labuan and Tarakan worked alongside US military and East Timorese Defence Force personnel,

as well as Australians assigned to the International Stabilisation Force and the Defence Cooperation Program.

ADF Contingent Commander LTCOL David Collins said humani-tarian assistance efforts included engineering, medical, dental, veteri-nary and community service projects in various regions.

“Engineers from Army’s 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment painted, re-tiled and re-roofed a school in Dili with their US and Timorese counter-parts,” he said.

“Medical and dental personnel conducted 174 surgeries in the 11 operating theatres on board, as well as treated about 19,000 patients at various medical and dental clinics.”

Meanwhile, Labuan and Tarakan provided ship-to-shore logistical support in the areas of Oecussi and Lautem.

� See inside for full PP10 coverage.

Sailors touch down in East Timor for Pacific Partnership 2010

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: ABBM Tristan McPherson (left) manouevres a zodiac as SMNMT Cameron Fulton (right) prepares to jump ashore in East Timor.Photo: ABIS Andrew Dakin

02 NEWS

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SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDESERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDE

NavyNavy The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy

➤ In the August 19 edition of Navy News (page 19), CHAP Eric Burton was incorrectly identified as Director-General Chaplaincy Navy. CHAP Garry Lock in fact holds this appointment.

➤ In a feature story on HMAS Woomera (Navy News, July 22, page 17), the article incor-rectly stated CDRE (Retd) Sam Bateman remained on board the vessel for a period with the captain, navigator, chief engineer and radio operator, after the rest of the crew abandoned ship. CDRE Bateman has asked that this be corrected. He was not among those that remained on board. Navy News apologises for any inconvenience this error has caused.

Correcting the record

By LEUT Kara Wansbury

THREE sailors from HMA Ships Labuan and Tarakan recently spent time with goats and various other livestock in the region of Lautaim, East Timor as part of a roving veteri-nary clinic during Pacific Partnership 2010.

Unlike the novel, ‘Men who stare at goats’, these Defence personnel used their powers for good; immunis-ing and treating the animals, a source of both income and food for the local people.

Working with US Army and Navy personnel, as well as Australian Army LT Garnett Hall from the International Stabilisation Force in East Timor, the sailors travelled from village to village in the region treating dogs, pigs, goats, monkeys and cattle.

HMAS Tarakan’s AB Luke Newman said they travelled to the mountains west of Lautaim to the agri-cultural college and were given a tour of the facility while the vets treated the sick cows.

“We treated more than 200 goats,

numerous dogs and several cattle,” SMNMT Johnny Brazatis said.

“It was amusing watching the team members trying to capture boisterous cantankerous goats.”

US Army CPL Jasmine Carreon said the field veterinary teams were grateful for the added hands during the roving clinics.

“It was truly a partnership moment to work with the Australian sailors,” she said.

“They were highly motivated and fun to work with. Wrangling animals is not the easiest job, but they jumped right in there and got dirty like the rest of us. It was great to see the smiles on their faces at the end of the day.”

The experience, far removed from Tarakan’s engine room, was positive and enhanced the international team-work and allowed the sailors to inter-act with the East Timorese people.

“It was rewarding to go ashore and work with people from different nations and with different skills. It was also a good experience to meet and interact with the locals,” AB Newman said.

By LEUT Emily Kennedy

THE ship’s company of HMAS Arunta (CMDR John Stavridis) will be well prepared for the challenges of Exercise Kakadu 2010 after they hosted a special ceremony as part of the exercise’s official reception, joint-ly hosted with HMAS Toowoomba.

A traditional smoking ceremony was performed on the flight deck by special visitors from the Arrernte tribe, from which Arunta derives her name. Guests enjoyed the aroma of the smoke, which is meant to bring power and strength to those who experience it.

Sabella Turner, a Native Title Holder of Central Arrernte, said the ceremony was very special to them.

“This type of ceremony has been around since time began and was used by our ancestors,” Sabella said.

“The plant is a bush medicine and is used on many different occasions and helps cleanse your mind and heart and gives you strength and power as a person.”

Seven members of the Alice Springs community attended the Smoking Ceremony on board Arunta including Darryl Pearce, Chief Executive Officer of the Lhere Artepe Aboriginal Corporation; Brian Stirling, Chairman of the Lhere Artepe Aboriginal Corporation; and Sabella and Janet Turner and Tricia Satour, all Native Title Holders of Central Arrernte.

Alice Springs Lord Mayor, Damien Ryan, and Deputy Lord Mayor, Alderman John Bailey, also attended.

Janet Turner addressed the guests of the Kakadu 2010 opening ceremony and spoke first in her native language and then addressed the gathering in

Exercise Kakadu begins off Darwin

English, wishing Arunta safe and well on her journey.

Arunta ’s CO, CMDR John Stavridis, spoke of the ship’s proud history with the Arrernte People.

“I am extremely delighted to have members of the Arrernte tribe on board for the official reception of Kakadu 2010 and feel privileged that Arunta can experience a traditional smoking ceremony,” CMDR Stavridis said.

“The strong connection between Arunta and the Arrernte People has a long history and we were fortunate to have two previous COs present at the reception.”

Commander Australian Fleet, RADM Steve Gilmore, and Deputy Chief of Joint Operations, RADM

Ray Griggs, were both previous COs of Arunta and were present for the reception.

Exercise Kadadu is the larg-est international maritime exercise in Australia for 2010 off the coast of Darwin. Ships and aircraft from Thailand, Singapore, New Zealand and Japan have joined eight RAN ves-sels and supporting aircraft from the RAAF in the exercise, which aims to promote international operations between navies.

Note: Be sure to catch the September 16 edition of Navy News for full Exercise Kakadu coverage.

WELCOME: Back row, Damien Ryan, Alice Springs Mayor; Brian Stirling, Chairman of the Lhere Artepe Aboriginal Corporation; RADM Steve Gilmore, COMAUSFLT; RADM Ray Griggs, DCJOPS; CMDR John Stavridis, CO HMAS Arunta; and Darryl Pearce, CEO of the Lhere Artepe Aboriginal Corporation. Front row, Sabella and Janet Turner, Native Title Holders Central Arrernte. The guests were aboard Arunta for the traditional Central Arrernte Smoking Ceremony as part of the official reception for Exercise Kakadu 2010.Photo: ABIS James Whittle

Sailors get their hands dirty in East Timor

INTERESTING EXPERIENCE: ABMT Cameron Fulton from HMAS Labuan sprays cows for parasites in a village in Lautaim, East Timor.Photo: ABIS Andrew Dakin

IN A joint operation between AusAID and the ADF, medical teams deployed to Pakistan on August 23 in response to the devas-tating flood crisis that has resulted in a humanitarian disaster.

Departing RAAF Amberley in Queensland, this deployment builds on the $35 million worth of assistance Australia has already provided.

The United Nations recently declared the floods had eclipsed the scale of the 2004 south-east Asian tsunami, the 2005 Pakistan earthquake and the earthquake that struck Haiti earlier this year.

Two-thousand people have so far lost their lives; 6 million are depend-ent on food assistance and 20 million people have been affected – almost the entire population of Australia.

Last month two loads of relief stores comprising tents, tarpaulins and plastic sheeting, water purification equipment, generators, birthing kits and water containers were sent to help more than 10,000 families.

The Medical Task Force, called the Australian Medical Task Force (AMTF), will establish a medical facil-ity near Kot Addu, in the vicinity of Multan, in the Muzaffar Garh District of the Punjab Province.

The medical teams comprise ADF personnel and civilians, including doc-tors, nurses, paramedics and support personnel drawn from state health agencies. They are being coordinated by Emergency Management Australia.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith said Australia was a good friend of Pakistan.

“We stand ready to provide what-ever assistance we can,” he said.

In conjunction with AusAID, Defence is providing its strategic air-lift aircraft, the C-17 Globemaster, to move the contingent from Brisbane to Multan International Airfield.

Defence Minister John Faulkner

said the AMTF was prepared to operate for an extended period but would maintain close links with the Government of Pakistan to ensure it was providing support for only as long as required.

“Our people will be operating under challenging conditions. The task force will apply a range of preventive and force protection measures so they can complete their mission safely,” Senator Faulkner said.

“Australia is focused on the imme-diate needs of the Pakistani people, but we will also assist with the recovery and reconstruction task,” Mr Smith said.

ADF aids flood-stricken Pakistan

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03NEWS


PP10 mission lands in TimorBy LEUT Kara Wansbury

THE most eastern part of East Timor was recently home to HMA Ships Labuan and Tarakan during Pacific Partnership 2010 where they, once again, hosted medical and dental personnel for the conduct of remote clinics as part of the humanitarian assistance mission.

However, unlike their experiences in Indonesia, both heavy landing craft ships beached each day in order to transfer medical, dental and veterinary teams and their equipment ashore.

Tarakan’s CO, LEUT Kevin Whatling, said each ship carried 21 medical and dental personnel.

“Once they have done their daily work we pick them up and return to anchor. The teams stay on board each night for safety and security,” he said.

“Our ships’ companies have the oppor-tunity to also go ashore and experience the medical, dental and veterinary clinics. The sailors support the medical and den-tal clinics by assisting to control crowds and observing treatments.”

Once again the Australian hospital-ity proved a winner with the international guests.

Scott Farrell, an optometrist from the Latter Day Saint Charities, said the Australian ships were a great place to return after work each day.

“There is great food, a good shower and good company,” he said.

Commander Australian National Command Element, LTCOL David

Collins, said the importance of the heavy landing craft in the PP10 mission could not be understated.

“The participation by the heavy land-ing craft really enhanced our PP10 foot-print in East Timor,” he said.

“We were able to send medical, den-tal and veterinary teams to more remote areas, to service more of the commu-nity and work with more members of the Timorese Defence Force,” he said.

PP10 participants in East Timor included mili tary personnel from Australia, Canada, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, the UK and US, as well as numerous volunteers from non-govern-ment organisations.

VILLAGERS in East Timor’s remote Oecussi enclave have received life changing medical support through a multinational medical program deliv-ered by Pacific Partnership 2010, the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) and the East Timorese Defence Force (F-FDTL), with support from the Defence Cooperation Program.

More than 1000 villagers were treated over three days, and two chil-dren with life threatening illnesses were immediately evacuated by helicopter to Ministry of Health hospitals.

The Oecussi activities were part of an ongoing campaign of Medical Civic Action Programs (MEDCAPs), which were established to provide care for ill villagers and train local health provid-ers operating under the F-FDTL and East Timorese Ministry of Health.

The Oecussi MEDCAP was the focus for the August campaign, and vil-lagers from Nitibe, Maquelab, Oalkaen and Baqui received critical medical treatment.

Brisbane-based ADF medical offic-er CAPT Carl Bryant, who is currently deployed to the ISF, said MEDCAPs not only improved the well-being of individuals, but built the community.

“We facilitate the East Timorese in transporting their medication and staff out to areas they can’t get to and we also help build the capacity of the F-FDTL to help their own people in the planning and running of medical sup-port programs,” he said.

“Heightening the ability of the Ministry of Health and F-FDTL through training ensures we are having a long-lasting impact on the people and that really makes it worthwhile.”

US Navy CMDR Peter Shumaker, officer in charge of the PP10-led MEDCAP at Baqui, said optometry, dental, dermalogical, congenital and surgical conditions had been assessed.

“We have seen a full range of condi-tions but working with our partners has been tremendous,” he said.

“It is the reason we are here. It’s also a vehicle to strengthen ties and

SAFE ARRIVAL: (Main) HMAS Labuan prepares for a beach landing on the coast of Lautaim, East Timor.JOINT MISSION: (Inset above left) L-R LSBM Gareth White, East Timorese Defence member Aida Moniz Alves and US Navy Hospital Corpsman Coty Chestnut on HMAS Tarakan’s forecastle.HISTORY: (Inset left) SMNBM James Riddell, LSET Matthew Morton, ABBM Peter Gregg and ABCIS Liam Knight sit in front of a 400-year-old Portuguese fort off the coast of Lautaim, East Timor.Photos: ABIS Andrew Dakin

Changing lives on PP10

QUALITY OF LIFE: ABMT Cameron Fulton assists a US Army dentist at a Medical Civic Action Program at the Oecussi enclave, East Timor.Photos: ABIS Andrew Dakin

increase the interoperability between

ourselves, the ADF and F-FDTL.”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Medical officer CMDR Michael Wilson on the bridge wing of USNS Mercy.

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04 NEWS


By CMDR Anne Andrews

HMAS Harman (CMDR Andy Schroder) has played a key role in the Defence-wide Strategic Reform Program, recently taking the initia-tive to rationalise the number of pub-lications the establishment receives.

In line with the underlying princi-ples of New Generation Navy and the Signature Behaviours – be cost con-scious, fix problems and take action – Harman conducted an audit of the Defence Publishing Service’s (DPS) Distribution and Retrieval, Reporting Tracking System to determine which publications were listed as being ‘allo-cated’ to Harman.

Harman’s CO, CMDR Andy Schroder, said the review identified that 382 unnecessary titles spanning seemingly endless subjects were being sent to the establishment.

“Over time many areas change and sometimes functions move to other areas,” CMDR Schroder said.

“If no one thinks about the publica-tions associated with areas, there is no trigger that lets DPS know the publica-tions are no longer required. We found that this was exactly what had hap-pened at Harman.”

Harman’s review found they were receiving multiple copies of some titles and, should a 100 per cent review of publications be conducted, Harman stood to receive some 1090 individ-ual copies ranging from ABR5013A

(Transport Motor Drivers Pocket Book – 110 copies) through to ABR10 (Sailors Career Management Manual – 19 copies).

“As a result of changes to the ‘rou-tine’ functions over the past 15-20 years, there are now no technical or engineering personnel posted to the Harman Command Element,” CMDR Schroder said.

“Furthermore, because the Harman workshop has been decommissioned and no such technical work is under-taken in Harman by Navy personnel, there is no requirement for any copies of ABR5013A in Harman at all.”

A further review of the 382 titles against the references actually required by the Harman Command Element (also available online through the DRN) determined that 337 of them were no longer required in hard copy.

CMDR Schroder said the admin-istrative process to cease receipt of the documents, while time consuming, was underway.

“Of the remaining 45 titles, some are yet to be confirmed as avail-able online or, alternatively, the title is required but the number of copies has been reduced to an absolute mini-mum,” he said.

“The total number of hard-copy publications now in receipt in Harman has been reduced by 929.”

Ongoing consultation with DPS has revealed the average cost to the Commonwealth for the production

Harman’s savings success

of each copy of a publication is $80. With this comes an average distribu-tion cost of $11.72 per publication title (not per copy). Applying these fig-ures to Harman’s revised DPS commit-ment, this provides a potential saving of $78,270 to the Harman Command Element.

CMDR Schroder said Harman’s allocation of reference material was not unique for a shore establishment.

“Navy has 11 such establishments and three Navy Headquarters so, by implementing a rationalisation across these Commands, significant savings can be achieved,” he said.

TAKING ACTION: CO HMAS Harman, CMDR Andy Schroder, reviews publications withSBLT Glenn Suffolk. The review found enormous savings could be made simply by rationalising the number of publications the estab-lishment received.

05NEWS


By Annabelle Haywood

A NEW webisode is available for viewing on the New Generation Navy website, addressing the world a sailor will encounter when he or she joins the Navy in 2015.

WO Chris Grose of Navy People Career Management Agency said he thought 2015 would be an exciting place to be.

“The future Navy is going to be very different from the Navy of today,” he said.

“The key word is opportunity – there will be a lot of new positions at sea and on shore.”

The significant difference will be in the introduction of the Air Warfare Destroyers (AWDs) and Landing Helicopter Docks (LHDs) which will be in service by 2015.

C A P T B r a d d o n W h e e l e r, Director of the AWD Capability Implementation Team, said the Navy of the previous century was moving to the Navy of the 21st century.

“We have the best ship we can possibly make,” he said.

CAPT Wheeler added that these new ships would operate in a much more sophisticated ADF environ-ment, and that Navy assets would be able to connect with Army and Air Force elements in a way they had never been able to do before.

“It’s almost like this is the true new war fighting capability, we’re

By LCDR Graeme Bick

HMAS Parramatta has now entered the latter stages of her deployment on Operation Slipper following a recent visit to Jebel Ali, Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

While in the UAE, the ship completed an alongside maintenance period and the crew took the opportunity to rest and recover from what has been a busy and diverse deployment.

During her deployment so far, Parramatta has completed more than 60 visits and boardings of vessels in the course of conducting maritime securi-ty operations in the Gulfs of Aden and Oman and the Red Sea.

Before the visi t to the UAE, Parramatta called in at Salalah in Oman, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, the Jordanian port of Aqaba and Karachi, Pakistan.

A recent highlight was hosting a visit by Commander Joint Task Force 633, MAJGEN John Cantwell, who had the opportunity to visit Parramatta as she patrolled in the Gulf of Aden.

While on board, MAJGEN Cantwell met with the crew and took part in a number of activities. The visit also gave

the General an opportunity to update the ship’s company on the latest JTF 633 operations in Afghanistan.

“The crew of Parramatta have been doing a fantastic job in support of the international anti-terrorism and anti-pira-cy efforts in the waters of the Middle East,” MAJGEN Cantwell said.

“Conducting their activities in the Gulf of Aden, the crew has visited and boarded over 60 vessels during her deployment so far, including a successful piracy disruption just days into her task-ing on the counter-piracy mission.

“Life on board is different to what our soldiers and Air Force members experi-ence in the deserts of Afghanistan and the Middle East, but the work the sailors have been doing has been first class,” MAJGEN Cantwell said.

Before departing, MAJGEN Cantwell presented a number of awards and praised the work the ship has conducted so far as part of the wider ADF contribu-tion to Operation Slipper.

Following MAJGEN Cantwell’s departure, Parramatta resumed maritime security operations. She is expected to return to her home port of Sydney this month.

Parra hosts special guest in Gulf of Aden

IN COMMAND: MAJGEN John Cantwell takes the helm of HMAS Parramatta under the watchful eyes of LEUT Kane Mackey (left) and ABBM Caleb Larnach. Photo: SGT Brent Tero

RAN’s bright future

leaving behind the old and we’re going to be in a new world,” CAPT Wheeler said.

CAPT Brad White, Director of the Joint Amphibious Capability Implementation Team, said the LHDs would have a similar impact.

“The LHD will represent a sig-nificant change in ADF operations – they will become the centre of gov-ernment first response to regional activities, because of the support they will provide to military opera-

tions and humanitarian and disaster relief activities,” CAPT White said.

“They will particularly enable us to operate in the littoral environment and manoeuvre around the island nations that are our near neigh-bours.”

The webisode “A Sailor joins the Navy in 2015 – what happens next?” is available for viewing on the NGN intranet site under “What’s New?”.

For further information visit www.navy.gov.au/Future_Ships

EXCITING FUTURE: The AWD will take the RAN into the 21st cen-tury according to the Director of the AWD Capability Implementation Team.

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06 NEWS

ADF mourns tragic lossesTHE ADF has been busy with the sad duty of bringing home Australian soldiers killed in action in Afghanistan in what has been a tragic period over recent weeks.

On August 18, after a long flight from the Middle East, a C-17 from Air Force’s 36 Squadron touched down at RAAF Base Pearce bearing the flag draped coffin of SAS TPR Jason Brown.

TPR Brown, 29, was carried off the aircraft by his mates to his family, Defence personnel and VIPs waiting in the hangar.

Defence Minister John Faulkner, Shadow Minister for Defence David Johnston, acting CDF LTGEN David Hurley, Chief of Army LTGEN Ken Gillespie and MAJGEN Tim McOwan attended the ramp ceremony.

TPR Brown died as a result of mul-tiple gun-shot wounds sustained during an engagement with Taliban insurgents on August 13.

LTGEN Gillespie spoke of the significance of the ramp ceremony in returning TPR Brown to his family.

“It’s a ceremony where we wel-come home one of our fallen soldiers for two families; his birth family and immediate family, but more broadly his Army family,” he said.

“It’s a simple service where both families recognise the sacrifice he has made.”

MAJGEN McOwan said TPR Brown’s death affected the entire spe-cial operations community.

“Our great commiserations and sympathies are extended to Jason’s immediate family, but certainly to the wider members of Special Operations Command – indeed the Army.

“Especially to his compatriots, his warrior brothers in Afghanistan, I wish to also extend my heartfelt com-miserations to those individuals too,” MAJGEN McOwan said.

“They are back in the saddle out there operating and taking the fight to the enemy, and they are looking after the people of Afghanistan. They are doing a wonderful job and I would ask them to continue the wonderful job they are doing.”

A requiem mass for TPR Brown was held at the Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Normanhurst on August 26.

Only days after TPR Brown’s death, two Australian soldiers from the Brisbane-based 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR), were killed when they were struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) while providing over-watch for an operation by fellow members of their patrol in the Baluchi Valley on August 20, at approximately 10.30am Afghanistan time.

PTE Tomas Dale, 21, and PTE Grant Kirby, 35, had left their Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle when the IED detonated.

Two other Australian soldiers were wounded in the attack, however, their

wounds were not considered life-threatening.

During a service at the Multinational Base Tarin Kowt on August 24, Commander Joint Task Force 633, MAJGEN John Cantwell, said the two soldiers were fondly remembered by their mates – not just as highly regarded soldiers but as brothers to them all.

“The service highlighted just how close-knit the soldiers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force have become after almost seven months of opera-tions,” he said.

“Tomas and Grant were separated by a few years and had quite naturally fallen into the role of youngest and oldest brothers in their section.

“Losing anyone is hard, but los-ing two people close enough to be considered as brothers, in every sense of that word, is especially difficult and it will be a real test for those who need to continue with this fight in their honour.”

MAJGEN Cantwell said Tomas’ and Grant’s section mates were trans-ported from their outlying patrol base to attend the service and wish their mates a final farewell before their jour-ney back to Australia.

After transiting through the Australian Support Area at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, they arrived at RAAF Base Amberley on August 27.

On August 24, LCPL Jared MacKinney, also from 6RAR, was

killed while operating as a mentor to the Afghan National Army during a partnered patrol in the Deh Rawud region when the patrol was engaged in an intense firefight with Taliban insurgents.

LCPL MacKinney was part of a dismounted patrol in the green zone when they were fired on by a number of insurgents and was killed early in that engagement.

On August 21, two soldiers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force were wounded when an IED detonated against their Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle in the Baluchi Valley region of Uruzgan Province.

Twenty-one Australian soldiers have been killed in action since opera-tions in Afghanistan began, with 149 soldiers wounded during this period.

TPR Jason BrownTPR Jason Brown PTE Grant KirbyPTE Grant Kirby

PTE Tomas DalePTE Tomas Dale LCPL Jared MacKinneyLCPL Jared MacKinney

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08 NEWS


By CPL Zenith King

GAP year sailors jumped at the chance to deploy on Operation Anode and will soon receive their first medal for their work in support of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).

Having been posted for three months to Cairns in HMAS Brunei (LEUT C.M. Jordon), SMNGXs Nicolas Love and Martin Pope were shocked to be asked to deploy to Solomon Islands.

“We were pulled in the office and told Brunei had been assigned to Op Anode in Solomon Islands. We were asked if we would like to go on the trip and we both said ‘yes’,” SMN Pope said.

A t s e a o ff t h e c o a s t o f Guadalcanal, SMN Love and Pope had been performing a variety of tasks while on board.

“We have been painting, sanding and doing a lot of dibby work, but we have also had the opportunity to see what everyone else does while on board the ship,” SMN Love said.

SMN Love and Pope conducted their recruit training together before heading to Seamanship school and ultimately receiving their posting to Brunei.

SMN Love, whose parents are both serving in the ADF, said he joined the

Gap year sailors jump at Solomons deployment

gap year program to do something that would challenge him.

“I joined for a different experience and what appealed to me was that it wasn’t a large commitment – it was only a year.

“When they asked me if I wanted to deploy I jumped at the opportunity. It’s crazy; I didn’t think it would hap-pen during my gap year. I have heard of it happening to a few people before but I never thought it would happen to me.”

Both SMNs Pope and Love are looking at going full-time upon return-ing to Australia.

“I have already put in my trans-fer to become a cryptologic linguist. I want to learn a new language and think that working in intelligence would be interesting,” SMN Pope said.

SMN Pope and Love will shortly receive their ASM for their time in Solomon Islands.

GREAT EXPERIENCE: (Main) SMNGX Nicolas Love paints the back of the 10in light with the RAMSI logo dur-ing HMAS Brunei’s deployment to Solomon Islands, while, inset, SMNGX Martin Pope stands on Brunei’s port bridge wing.Photos: ABIS Jo Dilorenzo

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09NEWS

By LEUT Jodie Turkenburg

AFL superstar Kevin Sheedy recently took some time out to visit the sailors of 816 Squadron (CMDR Shane Craig) while in the Shoalhaven promoting the new Greater Western Sydney AFL team.

Mr Sheedy, a legend in his own right, began his career in 1967 and now holds the record for the most games combined as coach and player. Mr Sheedy played with the Richmond Tigers and is well known for his 27-year coaching career with the Essendon Bombers.

Mr Sheedy arrived at the squadron with a relaxed atmosphere surrounding him. After a flight in the mission simulator and a tour of the squadron facilities, he enjoyed socialis-ing with a number of squadron sailors pass-ing on some entertaining experiences.

After a recent Aussie Rules competi-tion in the Tiwi Islands, LSATV Matthew Polman and LSATA Mills were keen to pass on a few names of up and coming local indigenous players.

Mr Sheedy said he was appreciative of the great grounding the military gives young Australians and enjoyed testing his flying skills in the Seahawk simulator.

Pilot instructor LEUT William Veale said he wasn’t too bad.

“He had a go at landing on a deck at night,” he said. “I’ve had worse students!”

816 Squadron’s CO, CMDR Shane Craig, said he would be delighted to have Mr Sheedy back on a more formal occasion to discuss leadership and teamwork with Squadron personnel.

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GIVING IT A GO: (Left) AFL legend and super coach Kevin Sheedy has a go in the flight simulator at HMAS Albatross and, inset, chats with LSATV Matthew Polman.Photos: ABIS Justin Brown

By Pup Elliott

EVERYBODY has either done it, or wanted to at some stage. You know one of those things your are told as a child that you must never do. Those acts of lunacy like running across a train track, a busy road or even an airfield. Well, it’s that mischievous little voice in all of us that inspired CPO Annie Schofield to plan a charity activity with a difference.

Well known to all Navy personnel, the home of the Fleet Air Arm at HMAS Albatross has an air field shaped as a ‘T’.

When CPO Schofield suggested clos-ing the airfield so people could walk around it to raise money for charity, reactions varied from “WTF – why the face?”, to “I always wanted to do that”, but Albatross’ CO, CAPT Stefan King, saw the event as unique.

“It was a rare opportunity to give eve-ryone a reason to come together as the Albatross family, have a great experience and show our generosity in support of such a worthy cause as fighting women’s cancer,” he said.

So, on a sunny July 30 more than 340 Albatross personnel took advantage of the rare opportunity to tread the tarmac when they participated in the inaugural ‘Tour the T’ for the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC).

Considering more than half the base was deployed in support of the Fleet on activities such as RIMPAC, this was a great turn out.

Participants could opt for a leisurely 4km stroll or a more exacting 8km run around the T-shaped airfield, which was closed for an unprecedented two hours.

The NBOCC plays a lead role in cancer control, improving cancer care and informing best practice, health sys-tem control and policy. Albatross person-nel walked in support of the Council’s aims, which include reducing mortality and improving the well-being of those diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer.

More than $5000 was raised and event organisers, CPO Annie Schofield, CPO Pam Litten and CPO Linda Hilton were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response.

Inaugural ‘Tour the T’ raises money for worthy cause

WORTHY CAUSE: Albatross personnel take to the airfield to raise money for the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre.

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10 NEWS


Defence health milestoneDEFENCE’S ongoing commit-ment to improve health care for ADF members has reached another milestone.

In July, VCDF, the three Service Chiefs and the Deputy Secretary of Defence Support signed the regional level agreements (RLAs) for regional health services, which detailed responsibilities for health programs and services across Australia.

VCDF LTGEN David Hurley said the RLAs would take the confu-sion and frustration out of Defence health care delivery.

“These agreements remove long-standing ambiguity on what will and will not be provided by the Services and Defence organisations,” he said.

“They represent an important milestone for the delivery of garrison health support for the ADF.

“This is the first time the single-Service health personnel, materiel, resources and facilities used to deliver garrison health support will be under the command, control and management of a single Defence entity – Joint Health Command (JHC).”

He said each RLA specified the requirements for all parties involved with the delivery of health care and had been introduced as part of the enhancement and reform of Defence health care following the establish-ment of JHC in 2008.

JHC will appoint regional health directors to oversee the new regions and provide dedicated health sup-

HEALTH CHECK: Signing the regional level health agreements are, left to right, Deputy Secretary Defence Support Simon Lewis, CN VADM Russ Crane, CDRE Robyn Walker, VCDF LTGEN David Hurley, Commander Joint Health Command, MAJGEN Paul Alexander, AIRCDRE Tracy Smart; CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin; and CA LTGEN Ken Gillespie. Photo: Bryan Doherty

port to local commanders. The development of the regional

health services will also complement current single-Service initiatives.

Commander JHC, MAJGEN Paul Alexander, said JHC staff and

representatives from the Services and DSG had worked hard to achieve a better-structured Defence health system.

“It means improved care and services for all personnel.

“Our health reform program successes so far, and our continu-ing work, means Defence remains a national and international leader in the delivery of health care,” MAJGEN Alexander said.

By Nicole Steele

OVER the next two years, Military Health Outcomes Program (MilHOP) study teams will be investigating the health chal-lenges that are faced by current and ex-serving personnel across the Services.

MilHOP will provide Defence with the most up-to-date information on the health and well-being of ADF members.

MilHOP will also help Defence better understand and further improve the Return to Australia Psychological Screening (RtAPS) and Post Operational Psychological Screening (POPS) processes, which provide ADF members with an opportunity to reflect upon their deployment experi-ence as well as access support if this is required.

Through the information collected by MilHOP, Defence will review the instruments administered in the RtAPS and POPS questionnaires to ensure that they are assessing the most appropriate and valid informa-tion to assist members post deploy-ment.

If you have not yet received your invita-tion to participate in one of the many MilHOP studies, or if you would like any further information on MilHOP, call our study team on free call 1800 886 567 or email [email protected]

MilHOP – supporting members post deployment

By Brooke Audsley

THE transfer and carriage of clas-sified information, especially when modern technology is used, requires extra vigilance and strict adherence to the correct security measures, says Defence’s Chief Security Officer Frank Roberts.

While many Defence members are most likely aware of their secu-rity responsibilities when handling and storing documents, the same might not apply to today’s technological devices.

“There is a real risk if we believe that the techno gadgets we use every day are designed to protect the infor-mation we place on them,” Mr Roberts said.

In reality, these gadgets provide very little protection, as shown by numerous incidents worldwide involv-ing the loss or compromise of infor-mation, including information stored on portable electronic devices.

Inappropriate use of electronic devices, such as USB thumb drives, also heightens the risk of seri-ous viruses being introduced into Defence’s ICT network, which can compromise the security of classified information.

“The implications resulting from lost information can be severe,” Mr Roberts said.

“It can place at risk the lives of our colleagues and the success of Defence operations.

“Insecure transfer of sensitive information could also mean severe repercussions for the individual responsible.”

While there are still risks involved in the transfer of classified information in Australia, it can be exposed to far greater risk when it is transferred out-side Australia, which means increased protective measures are required.

Mr Roberts said any Defence mem-ber travelling overseas must receive a briefing from their security officer

11NEWS


Beware the “techno trap”

before they go, which includes advice and arrangements for the safe transfer or carriage of information during busi-ness travel.

“The risk that foreign intelligence services may acquire information that could be used against us militarily, financially, strategically (for example, in government-to-government nego-tiations), or to gain an advantage over

individuals within Defence is very serious,” Mr Roberts said.

Remember, border protection authorities in most countries have the right to inspect the contents of elec-tronic media carried across their bor-ders. Using an encrypted laptop, CD, DVD or thumb drive, even where DSD-approved encryption technolo-gies are used, will not prevent such inspections from occurring.

If you need to transfer classified information – whether in hard copy or electronic form – overseas, you must first talk to your security officer or DSA regional office, who will help you undertake the correct procedures and fulfil all requirements.

For more information visit www.defence.gov.au/dsa

What we all need to know

➤ Your commander or man-ager must give authorisation for you to remove classified information from Defence or Defence industry premises.

➤ The Defence Safehand Service provides a secure method for the carriage of highly classified material between bases and installa-tions.

➤ SCEC-approved briefcases, satchels, seals, pouches or transit bags, or special enveloping procedures must be used for classified information outside Defence premises.

➤ Classified electronic media, including laptops and other portable electronic devices, must be protected to the same degree as paper-based classified information.

➤ If you need to take classified information home you must have the correct protective security arrangements at your residence as per the Defence Security Manual.

➤ There are several options available for transferring classified information over-seas including the DFAT courier service, the Defence Safehand Service, and a member with a laissez pas-ser. It is important that you talk to your DSA regional office, who will help tailor a workable solution for your specific needs.

REAL RISK: Inappropriate use of electronic devices, such as USB thumb drives, heightens the risk of serious viruses being introduced into Defence’s ICT network, which can compromise the security of classified infor-mation.

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12 NEWS

By LEUT Kara Wansbury

ABIS Andrew Dakin kneels and ten-derly brushes leaves from the grave of photographer and war correspondent Damien Parer, as his fellow Pacific Partnership teammates wander down the aisles between the headstones.

The emotion is obvious as ABIS Dakin spends time at the grave, reflect-ing on Parer’s life and the award-win-ning images he produced.

In Indonesia for Pacific Partnership 2010, ABIS Dakin and other members of the Australian contingent were able to visit the Commonwealth war graves site to pay their respects to more than 1000 fallen Australians, including Parer.

The famed Australian World War II photographer was killed in Palau by Japanese gunfire and buried in Ambon Cemetery, among the other fallen Australians who died in campaigns in the Pacific region.

It is his images though, epitomis-ing the Australian spirit in battle, that he is most remembered for, and the very reason ABIS Dakin picked up a camera.

“I became familiar with Parer’s work during military history lessons in high school and visiting the Australian War Memorial,” ABIS Dakin said.

“But it wasn’t until I joined Navy that his images, along with other mili-tary photographers, helped inspire me to transfer to become an imagery spe-cialist.”

The discovery of Parer’s grave site was a surprise to ABIS Dakin.

“It brought a lump to my throat vis-iting Parer and all the Commonwealth men interred at Ambon. I felt humbled to have stepped on the ground where so many Australian lives were lost, so close to our home soil,” ABIS Dakin said.

Parer was famous for his ability to capture the true essence of battle and the men who fought it. His footage of Kokoda and movie entitled Kokoda’s Front Line earned an Oscar, and his images have become iconic.

“Parer ’s ever las t ing images of HMAS Sydney II sailors wav-ing from a gaping hole of her fun-nel after defeating the Italian Cruiser Bartelemeo Colleoni in Cape Spada, and the image of the caped soldier crossing the stream in New Guinea are two pictures I will never forget,” ABIS Dakin said.

“There are many war photogra-phers that have captured the essence

Sailor discovers his hero

of Australian sailors, soldiers and air-men and women from the Great War through to today’s conflicts, like Sir Hubert Wilkins, Frank Hurley and Damien Parer.

“Like all military photographers serving today, these men of the past

inspire us to capture and promote the ADF with humility and resolve.”

ABIS Dakin paid his final respects to his fallen hero and did what he was there to do – capture the moments that instil the pride of our country in our sailors, soldiers and airmen and women.

INSPIRATIONAL: (Above) ABIS Andrew Dakin pays homage to war photographer and cameraman, Damian Parer, where he is buried along-side more than 1000 other Australians in the Ambon war cemetery, Indonesia.Photo: CAPT Darryl BuchananGREAT MAN: (Top right) Photographer and war correspondent, Damien Parer.ICONIC IMAGE: (Right) Parer’s capture of HMAS Sydney II sailors wav-ing from a hole in the ship’s funnel after defeating Bartelemeo Colleoni during World War II.

CDF returns to work CHIEF of the Defence Force, ACM Angus Houston, has returned to work following a short period of leave to receive medical treatment.

“I am pleased to be back at work fol-lowing successful prostate surgery,” ACM Houston said.

“I would like to thank all those who expressed their best wishes to me and my family during this time. I am very grate-ful for all the phone calls, cards, letters and emails I have received wishing me a speedy recovery.

“The surgery went very well and I am pleased to be back in the office and resum-ing my duties as CDF.”

IN BRIEF

Albatross hosts ’chuting soldiersTHE skies over HMAS Albatross were graced with a rare sight recently as a RAAF C-17A Globemaster III turned wide circles over the region.

The C-17 was supporting Army’s

Parachute Training School (PTS) for the first time, providing soldiers with the opportunity to use the mighty Globemaster for descents.

The entire cohort of course partici-pants, as well as six staff and instruc-tors, were able to be lifted at once. This feat would normally take over 10 loads on a typical PTS support aircraft.

The use of a C-17 for the first time on a full course at PTS demon-strates the magnification of capability achieved with tri-Service operations – in this case utilising a RAN air station to drop Army personnel from a RAAF aircraft.

This is the culmination of a long period of testing conducted on the C-17 for its use in Australian para-chute activities and marks a significant step forward in the implementation of this aircraft for current operations.

After what could be better described as a splashdown than a maiden landing due to wet weather, course participants continued with their training and subsequent qualify-ing descents.

DHA information line 139 DHA (139 342) www.dha.gov.au Toll Transitions freecall 1800 819 167 www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

DHA was established in 1988 with the aim of improving the quality and selection of housing for Defence members and their families. Now, over 20 years on, DHA manages approximately 17, 300 residences around Australia and provides a range of services to help ease the pressure on Defence families – we will support you and your family throughout your tenancy, from moving in, to living in, and then moving out of your home.

While our level of support for you and your family will not change, you will see some changes to the Defence relocations process. Where DHA managed relocations administration in the past, Toll Transitions will now be your relocations service provider.

To help you understand how this may impact you and your family, we’ve put together a reference guide for you and your family.

DHA will assist you with: Toll Transitions will assist you with: Defence will assist you with:

Finding and securing your future Defence home – using DHA’s online HomeFind tool

Notifying DHA of your relocation, so that we can commence the HomeFind process

All of your pay matters

Your housing entitlements, including Rent Allowance or Living In Accommodation

Organising your relocation requirements Making and managing any policy which affects your housing and relocation entitlements

Arranging all your DHA housing maintenance requirements

Arranging all your uplift and delivery requirements

Determining your Conditions of Service

Rent Band Choice Housing – this provides you with a range of housing choices to suit your lifestyle

Approving and organising any long-term or short-term storage of your possessions

Managing the contractors who provide your relocation services and housing, such as Toll Transitions and DHA

Fast Connect – a free service for the connection or disconnection of major utilities and telecommunication services

Booking travel and temporary accommodation for your relocation

Your relocation allowances and entitlements

If you have received your posting before 1 July 2010 and are moving before 31 August 2010, DHA will manage your relocation. Any postings received after 1 July 2010 will be managed by Toll Transitions.

Defence Housing Australia – your housing solution.


14 NEWSIN BRIEFHelp wanted!THE new family occupying Jenner House (2 Macleay Street, Potts Point, NSW) are busily restoring the property to its former heritage character.

In the course of restoration they have discovered many of the fittings may have been archived or stored during the sale of the property.

They would be grateful for any infor-mation to assist in the location of the original fireplaces and light fittings that were in Jenner House, or any other items of historical note associated with the property.

If you have any information about these items please email [email protected] or write to M.V. at 303/6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo, NSW, 2011. Any costs involved in replying will be reimbursed.

Call for donations HMAS Kuttabul’s LEUT Stuart Goldfinch is calling for donations to the George Gregan Foundation on behalf of his local junior sports club, the North Ryde Dockers Junior AFL Club.

LEUT Goldfinch said that, in March 2010, seven-year-old Hannah Coary lost her life to a cancerous brain tumour.

“Throughout her long treatment, her respite was the state-of-the-art play-ground at Westmead Children’s Hospital, built through the vision of the George Gregan Foundation,” LEUT Goldfinch said.

“Try for Hannah is a committee founded in Hannah’s memory to raise money for the George Gregan Foundation so it can continue its work building play-grounds of hope around Australia.

“The Coary family are members of our local junior AFL community – Hannah’s brother, Daniel, plays for our Under 10 team. Despite the difficult times they have endured, the Coary’s continue to volunteer around the club and provide a source of inspiration in the face of adversity.”

LEUT Goldfinch said tax-deductible donations could be made at www.everydayhero.com.au/north_ryde_dockers_junior_afl_clubFor more details visit www.tryforhannah.com

Science awardAUSTRALIA’S Chief Defence Scientist Professor Robert Clark has presented the $10,000 Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in support of Defence or National Security to a team from the University of Western Australia.

Professor Ba-Ngu Vo, his brother Professor Ba-Tuong Vo and Professor Antonio Cantoni are the first to determine how to measure the margin of error inher-ent in systems tracking multiple targets, radically simplifying the required compu-tation and computing power.

Professor Clark said it was an out-standing development.

“It has the potential to contribute significantly to Australia’s defence and national security, by making the chal-lenges of detecting the large numbers of objects that modern sensors may typically detect more tractable,” he said.

“The innovative work of Professor Vo and his team could have many benefits in the defence domain. This includes an improved identification capability at longer ranges, including in hazardous urban environments and for the protection of ships, aircraft and vehicles,” Professor Clark said.

Reserve employers recognisedRESERVE employers were recently recognised for their dedicated contribu-tion to ADF capability at an awards night held at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

To honour employers who release their staff to serve in the reserves, the Defence Reserves Support Council ACT Committee held their annual Employer Support Awards evening on June 24.

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support Mike Kelly attended the event and said it was about formally recognis-ing a number of supportive employers who were nominated by reservists on their staff.

“For every reservist who renders reserve service there is usually an employer, or educational institution, who supports that reservist by willingly releas-ing them to don their uniform,” Dr Kelly said.

“The astute employer recognises the great value that a reservist can bring to a business or organisation.”

By Leonie Gall

IT HAS been called liquid gold, and a pint of yours could save the lives of three of your mates. So why not take up the challenge this spring and donate blood for a very worthy cause?

Defence’s second blood drive challenge began on September 1, encouraging ADF members and their families across Australia to help increase blood-stock levels, while getting involved in a little friendly tri-Service rivalry for good measure.

Strategic Logistic Branch staff officer and blood-drive organiser, Gary Schulz, said the Red Cross would be taking blood at most Defence establishments between September and November.

He said this year’s challenge would focus on improving on last year’s final tally of 1265 donations.

“Defence relies on blood as part of its core business, so this blood not only assists the Australian population but it also assists our Service personnel overseas,” Mr Schulz said.

Supported by Commander Joint Health Command, MAJGEN Paul Alexander, the blood drive chal-lenge will run until November 30 and, rumour has it, Air Force will be keen to defend last year’s inau-gural challenge win of 477 dona-tions.

Blood drive challenge

Mr Schulz said Australian blood was some of the best in the world and it was a very healthy sign to give blood regularly.

“I first started giving blood at 18 to get the free milkshake and party pies as a bit of a novelty, but then I started doing it as part of a group and it became a bit of a bonding thing,” he said.

“Giving blood is a feel-good experience – it’s knowing that

you’ve done the right thing and it doesn’t really hurt.”

Australian hospitals require more than 300,000 blood donations every three months to service the needs of patients, but only about three per cent of Australians give blood regu-larly.

To make your donation count, use Defence Service donation codes DF01 (Army), DF02 (Navy), or DF03 (Air Force).

CMDR John Stavridis recently took command of HMAS Arunta, a warship that makes up the front-line of Australia’s naval defence.

CMDR Stavridis said he’d had his eye on the Captain’s chair for some time.

“I always wanted to join the Navy and with a family history of naval service it seemed natural,” he said.

“My parents were very sup-portive of my unique career choice and, 23 years later, I have never looked back.”

CMDR Stavridis was born in Sydney and is the son of Iordanis and Kaliopi, who emigrated to Australia from the islands of Lemnos and Samos in the 1960s.

He joined the Navy in 1988 straight out of secondary school at Sydney’s Trinity Grammar. From there he attended the Australian Defence Force Academy where he graduated with honours in 1991.

Following navigation training he specialised as a maritime war-fare officer and served in a number of ships which saw him travel the world.

“I have been to a lot of plac-es with the Navy – Asia, the Americas, the Pacific and the Middle East, although I am still waiting for the opportunity to take my ship to Europe and hopefully Greece,” CMDR Stavridis said.

CMDR Stavridis said the RAN was an employer of choice.

“I could not think a better employer in Australia today. It is the range of job opportunities, adventure, posting localities, job

Arunta welcomesnew commander

security and world-class training that make this career so rewarding.

“The Navy prides itself in the quality of its people and takes an active interest in their continued professional education. For exam-ple, the Navy has encouraged me to undertake, and sponsored me through, two masters’ degrees.”

CMDR Stavridis cannot say with certainty whether he is the first Australian of Greek heritage to com-mand an Australian warship.

“What I am certain of is that

there are a number of Greek-Australians in the Navy today filling a variety of important positions and serving their country with pride.”

Asked whether he saw any con-flict between his cultural back-ground and service in the Navy, CMDR Stavridis said the Navy was very supportive and accepting of his cultural heritage.

“I hold close the Greek customs, language and traditions. My faith is also important to me and the Navy is also very supportive of that.”

IN COMMAND: HMAS Arunta’s new CO, CMDR John Stavridis, kneels proudly on the forecastle. CMDR Stavridis joined the RAN in 1988 and has never looked back.Photo: LSIS Phillip Cullinan

DOESN’T HURT A BIT: CMDR Grahame Falls has his blood taken by Colleen Laugesen from the ACT Blood Bank.Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

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15NEWS


SOLDIERS, sailors and airmen and women from the Defence Force School of Signals – Electronic Warfare Wing (DFSS-EWW) will participate in a charity fundraising activity, Ex ’round for Life from August 29 – September 11.

Ex ’round for Life was organised after SGT Ken Leggett, DFSS-EWW, was diagnosed with, and treated for, testicular cancer in 2009.

Participants will cycle 1200km from Cabarlah to Canberra, covering approximately 100km per day.

Members of DFSS-EWW will conduct fundraising for St Andrew’s Hospital, Toowoomba and the Flinders Medical Centre Foundation, Adelaide by collecting money and selling raffle tickets to the public at their overnight locations.

The ride will culminate at Parliament House on September 11.

IN BRIEFEx ’round for Life kicks off in Queensland

Classics @ Fed SquareWhat? RAN Band Melbourne detach-ment concert band performance. When? Monday, September 13. Time? 1pm pre-concert curtain raiser followed by 1.30pm concert.Where? BMW Edge Theatre, Federation Square, Melbourne.

By LEUT Gary McHugh

POMT Malia Belleville was recently awarded the HMAS Westralia – POMT Shaun Damien Smith Perpetual Shield for 2009.

Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane, with the assistance of Brendon Smith – POMT Smith’s brother – presented the shield to POMT Belleville at HMAS Stirling (CAPT Brett Dowsing).

POMT Belleville, who is serv-ing in HMAS Ballarat (CMDR Guy Blackburn), said it was an honour to receive the shield, given the number of sailors who undertook the course.

The HMAS Westralia – POMT Shaun Damien Smith Perpetual Shield is presented annually to the most outstanding marine technical sailor to have completed the senior technicians’ course during the calen-dar year.

The naming of the shield honours the memory of POMT Smith who, along with three other shipmates, was killed in the line of duty while serving in HMAS Westralia on May 5, 1998.

Top prize for MT sailor

OUTSTANDING EFFORT: Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane and Brendon Smith present HMAS Ballarat’s POMT Malia Belleville with the 2009 HMAS Westralia – POMT Shaun Damien Smith Perpetual Shield at Fleet Base West.Photo: ABIS Lincoln Commane

16 17CENTRESPREAD


BON VOYAGEHMAS Melbourne sails for Slipper

By Michael Brooke

HMAS Melbourne (CMDR Michael Harris) achieved a small but impor-tant milestone when she sailed from Fleet Base East (FBE) for Operation Slipper on August 16.

Her deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations marks the first oper-ational deployment by an Adelaide-class frigate (FFG) since the billion-dollar FFG upgrade project was implemented.

Melbourne’s deployment to the Gulf of Aden, where she will soon begin anti-piracy patrols, also marks her first oper-ational deployment since 2004, when she deployed on Operation Catalyst.

Speaking to Navy News, CMDR Harris said the deployment was a sig-nificant moment for the ship.

“It is a great honour to be undertak-ing this important job on behalf of the Australian people,” CMDR Harris said.

“To deploy the first upgraded FFG in support of operations makes the deployment all the more professionally rewarding for us.”

The upgraded FFG, which has the motto ‘She gathers strength as she goes’, was farewelled from FBE by the Chief of Navy, VADM Russ Crane, and COMAUSFLT, RADM Steve Gilmore, as well as more than 500 family and friends.

VADM Crane said Melbourne was the first of the upgraded Adelaide-class FFGUP to sail for the Middle East.

“The enhancements make her a formidable force, with new missile and torpedo systems among the improved capability,” VADM Crane said.

“The men and women embarked in Melbourne will make a vital contribu-tion to the Australian Government’s commitment to ensuring maritime secu-rity, supporting anti-terrorism and coun-tering piracy in the Gulf of Aden.

“The thoughts and best wishes of the nation are with Melbourne as she sails to undertake this important task.”

CMDR Harris told Navy News the ship’s company responded brilliantly to the recent challenges because of the strong support of family and friends.

“Their support as we worked tire-lessly to prepare has resulted in us being extremely well placed to succeed in our mission,” he said.

More than 500 family and friends were present to farewell Melbourne when she sailed. The farewell was especially tearful because the sailors and their loved ones will miss celebrat-ing Christmas and New Year together, but are scheduled to be reunited around Valentine’s Day.

Among the sailors bidding their loved ones goodbye was ABCK Justin

Macey, who has left behind a young wife, Electra, and a three-week old baby, Zain; and also ABET James Mills, who farewelled his fiancée and three-month-old son, Charlie.

ABET Mills said he would marry his fiancée in March next year, after Melbourne returned home.

“This is a good opportunity to take part in an operational deployment before we marry and also while Charlie is so young,” he said.

There were also a large number of young sailors, such as ABET Ashley Callaghan, 19, who were about the same age as their warship, but far less seasoned.

“This is my first operational deploy-ment and I’m a little nervous because I don’t know what to expect,” she said.

Many sailors told Navy News that doing their duty away from home would be made easier by Melbourne’s new cyber café, which includes Skype for face-to-face dialogue.

Melbourne’s crew will not only be conducting anti-piracy patrols during their deployment but also contributing to a worthy cause through a fundraising initiative for Legacy.

LSPT Trish Muller said the ‘Legacy ultra marathon’ aimed to raise $20,000 through sponsorship for 20 sailors who would individually or collectively walk,

jog or run around Melbourne’s flight-deck for the entire time the ship was at sea.

Families and friends can make a donation online at www.everydayhero.com.au/melbournes_ultra_mara-thon_team. In addition to watching the ‘hero-metre’ rise, an update of the kilo-metres completed will be posted daily via email.

Melbourne has deployed for six months to the MEAO as part of Operation Slipper – the ADF’s contri-bution to the international campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

During her deployment, Melbourne will help provide security in the mari-time environment, promoting regional stability and global prosperity.

These operations complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists’ use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

This is the 24th rotation of a RAN Fleet unit to the region since operations began in September 2001. Melbourne has not deployed on Op Slipper since her first tour to the Middle East in 2002.

EMOTIONAL GOODBYE: (Left) LS Jonathon Ward holds his one-year-old daugh-ter Isabelle before boarding HMAS Melbourne.

STRONG FRIENDSHIPS: (Below) PONPC BJ Goldsack, CPONPC L. Coleman, LSNPC R. Woodward and LSNPC S. Hine.

BYE DADDY: (Bottom) AB Justin Macey says goodbye to his three-week-old son, Zain, and wife Electra.

Photos: ABIS Hayley Clarke

YOUNG LOVE: (Right) AB Ian Devenish is farewelled by his partner, Tamare, as he prepares to board HMAS Melbourne.

SUPPORTIVE FAMILIES: (Below) LSWTR Marcus Parkinson is farewelled by his wife, Kerri, and twin boys Owen and Lucas.

TENDER MOMENT: (Bottom) LS Scott Gordon farewells his wife, Holly, before boarding the ship.

Photos: ABIS Hayley Clarke

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18 NEWS


Cairns personnel excel at

HMAS Cairns sailors, ABWTRs Gail Gordon and Lani Wade, were each presented with a ‘Bravo Zulu’ certificate by acting Executive Officer, LCDR Chris Gallagher, in August.

Signed by acting CO, LCDR Terry Garside, the BZ recognised the outstanding contribution by these junior sailors.

LCDR Gallagher said the award acknowledged that their high performance during a busy period, without a leading hand supervisor, hadn’t gone unnoticed.

“They got on with their duties, providing valuable administrative support to Cairns’ ship’s company

Situated in the heart of the city it takes its name from, HMAS Cairns is home to a contingent of patrol boats, amphibious landing craft and survey vessels.

Bernard O’Connor takes us behind the scenes to report on the work being done by Cairns’ support staff in the workplace and Service personnel in the community.

THIS year the Relay for Life team from HMAS Cairns (CMDR Bob Heffey) dressed as ferocious pirates, keeping with

the spirit of the community event.The biggest Relay for Life gather-

ing in Queensland and one of the biggest nationally, the Cairns event continues to capture Far North Queensland hearts and minds.

With all fundraising conducted on-base at Cairns only, the Navy team con-tributed a magnificent $2700 towards the total of $465,000 raised. This indicates the strength of commitment by Navy per-sonnel and the Cairns community towards this event, which saw a huge participation by 165 teams of 15 walkers each.

All funds raised go to the Queensland Cancer Council to fund research and help families affected by cancer.

Throughout the relay, many Navy families participated in the survivors’ and carers’ lap of honour.

Team volunteers from Cairns includ-ed POPT Roy, CPOPT Cunningham, LSMED Parker, LSHSO Hadfield, LSBM Weldon, LSPT Fritzell-Flint, LCDR Tokesi, ABDEN Larkin, LCDR Sowter, ABMED Picot, PONCP Boak, ABHSO Whittaker, AB Dyer, LSMT Harrison, LEUT Clayton and Mr Lambden.

Team members said the night was

cold, especially for the fancy dress team that wore only Speedos. However, the entertainment kept people warm and busy with movies and Zumba dancing.

The Navy team paired up to do hourly blocks of laps around Barlow Park, start-ing at 2pm on Saturday, June 4 and fin-ishing the next morning at 10am.

ARRRRRGH ME HEARTIES! Members of HMAS Cairns’ Relay for Life team raised $2700 for the Queensland Cancer Council.

Performance doesn’t go unnoticedand to personnel from Cairns-based Fleet units,” LCDR Gallagher said.

“This is a small way to say their efforts were greatly appreciated.”

Surprised by the presentation of the BZ certifi-cates, ABWTR Gail Gordon said simply, “Oh my God!”.

ABWTR Lani Wade paraphrased the movie Anchorman, saying, “I don’t know how to put this, but it’s kind of a big deal”.

While it was a low-key presentation, it was big deal to the writers to have such positive feedback on their ongoing efforts to support Cairns personnel and those serving in the Fleet.

BRAVO: ABWTRs Gail Gordan (left) and Lani Wade are presented with Bravo Zulu certificates by Acting Executive Officer HMAS Cairns, LCDR Chris Gallagher.

Fact file: HMAS CairnsFact file: HMAS Cairns

➤ Pacific-class hydrographicsurvey ships

Leeuwin A245 Melville A246

➤ Paluma-class survey motor launches

Paluma A01 Mermaid A02 Shepparton A03 Benalla A04

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VH-LCL


19NEWS

work and in communityCAIRNS-based safety equipment sail-ors recently provided support for a Maritime Safety Training Day at Lake Tinaroo, organised by a local high school.

AB Mitch Fisher from Fleet Support Unit – Cairns and AB Leigh Newlan from Ardent Six crew provided a com-prehensive brief on marine safety equip-ment for the students.

Organisers from Woree High School described the day as a wonderful suc-cess. Students had the opportunity to ask Navy personnel about life at sea, differ-ent rates within the Navy and, of course, the television series Sea Patrol.

The safety training day promoted a range of activities with different stations including canoeing, boat rides and life jacket and emergency displays.

The day allowed students from

SAFETY AT SEA: ABBM Mitch Fisher demonstrates life saving equipment to Cairns-region school students.

Sailors on show at marine and aquatic safety training day

Malanda, Cairns, Bentley Park and Woree to learn about maritime safety and potential career pathways.

With representation by Queensland Fire and Rescue, Maritime Safety Queensland, as well as Navy, participants had access to industry professionals who were able to give first-hand information.

ABBM Fisher said many of the stu-dents asked astute questions.

“You could tell they were keen,” he said.

The event was well-received by stu-dents and organisers praised the Navy members for communicating well with students throughout the day.

TROPICAL LOCALE: HMAS Cairns viewed from the air. The base completed a major redevelop-ment in 2009.

➤ CO CMDR Bob Heffey

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20 NEWS

Defence ball raises $100k for LegacyBy Leonie Gall

IF LAUGHTER is the best medicine, then major healing took place last month in Brisbane when hundreds enjoyed an evening of good humour to raise money for a very worthy cause.

More than 800 Defence members and corporate guests came together at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, August 7 to enjoy some wining, dining and dancing at the Defence Charity Ball, raising important funds for Legacy.

Guests were treated to an entertain-ing evening as emcee, funny-man Vince Sorrenti, got up to all sorts of mischief, while ex-Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo gave a show-stopping perfor-mance with the Army and Navy bands.

Vince Sorrenti said it was a pleasure to be involved in the event.

“No one supports the freedoms and liberties of this great country as much as me, and as a comic the ability to speak my mind and live my life openly is sacred to me,” Mr Sorrenti said.

“The ADF protects not only our bor-ders, but these values – in any part of the world they can be threatened.

“Through Legacy we can acknowl-edge and help the brave people who put themselves in harm’s way for the values we hold so dear.”

Recently widowed Brie Till, wife of fallen digger SGT Brett Till, who died in

Afghanistan on March 19 last year, gave a heart-warming address to ball guests about the difficulties of coping with the loss of a husband and father while dealing with a new-born baby, and spoke of the support she received from friends, family and Legacy.

During the evening, festivities were briefly paused for an important cross to Afghanistan, where the CO of the First Mentoring Task Force, LTCOL Mark Jennings, spoke of the importance of Legacy. He assured soldiers that if an incident occurred while they were con-ducting operations in Afghanistan, Legacy would support their families back home if required.

Other activities on the night included a successful auction, the top item fetching about $5500, ADF static displays, includ-ing an ARH Tiger helicopter, a Navy dive tank and RAAF working dog puppies.

The ADF Charity Ball was run by Commander of the First Division in Brisbane, with Legacy as the very grate-ful beneficiary of all funds raised.

Brisbane Legacy CEO, Steven Blinkhorn, said Legacy was hoping to receive in excess of $100,000 as a result of the ball.

Legacy supports more than 115,000 widows and 1900 children and depend-ants, who have lost a loved one serving Australia.

By MAJ Barbara Tipper

TWO foreign Navy and five foreign Army personnel have taken their first steps to becoming RAN and Army officers, respectively.

T h e P r e - o ff i c e r Tr a i n i n g Preparation (PT PREP) Course was hosted at RAAF Williams, Laverton, by the Defence Internat ional Training Centre (DITC).

The course, which ran from June 7 to July 2, aims to serve as a primer in aspects of the ADF before starting MIDN/OCDT training proper.

To their credit, all seven trainees participated fully on the PT PREP course, successfully completing their preparation for their officer training in Australia.

They rapidly adjusted to the Australian accent and ADF teaching and learning methods, and prepared themselves thoroughly for leadership training and defence studies in the Australian context.

The PT PREP course also required trainees to research aspects of leadership in Australian and ADF history, deliver an oral brief and make a start with applying our Defence writing standards.

The OCDTs completed the PT PREP course at the Royal Military College in Canberra, where they have since started the 18-month officer training program, while the MIDN finished up with a visit to HMAS Cerberus for a taste of RAN history and life.

MIDNs Bryan Pohai and Nathan Tombe (from Papua New Guinea) were hosted at Cerberus by LCDR Lucito Irlandez, Officer in Charge Training Services Faculty – Supply and Health.

Foreign servicemen prepare for ADF officer training

LCDR Irlandez showed the eager MIDN around Cerberus and was happy to share his own experiences as an NEOC graduate of 10 years and a former NEOC instructor.

LCDR Irlandez readily empa-thised with Bryan and Nathan, hav-ing once been a foreigner himself.

He arrived from the Philippines as a skilled migrant (he was lec-turing in engineering) and worked with Navy as a civilian for 10 years before trying on the uniform and passing through NEOC. In hindsight he wishes he’d made the decision

sooner, given the satisfying career he has enjoyed for the last decade.

LCDR Irlandez told the MIDN, “If I could do it at the age of 39, you shouldn’t have any problems!”

The MIDN also met and chatted with recent NEOC graduates dur-ing their visit to Cerberus, glean-ing useful course survival hints (like carefully hidden safety pins hold-ing hospital corners in place) and receiving encouragement about their preparedness.

The MIDN relocated to HMAS Creswell on July 12 and have joined New Entry Officer Course 43.

READY TO SERVE: (From left) HMAS Cerberus’ POPT Joe Carroll, MIDN Bryan Pohai (PNG) and MIDN Nathan Tombe (PNG).

HOST WITH THE MOST: (Main) Emcee Vince Sorrenti arrives in style, on top of a Bushmaster PMV.INCOMING: (Inset top left) PTE Morgan Beam helps a guest shoot a grenade stress ball.HATS ON, HATS OFF: (Inset top right) Commander 1st Division, MAJGEN Mick Slater, presents Sorrenti with a slouch hat.BLENDING IN: (Inset bottom left) Sorrenti shares a joke with a yowie suit-clad sniper.Photos: Kim Allen

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The sooner you lodge your Pre-AFR and AFR the sooner you will be able to get the house you want.

Lodge your Pre-AFR and AFR online www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

Read the Defence Relocation Guide before you complete your AFR. The guide contains hard copy forms to be completed if you can’t lodge online.

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Advise your Case Manager of any special requirements that may affect your relocation.

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Your Case Manager is able to assist with any questions about the relocation process or contact our Customer Service Centre on 1800 810 167 or visit www.tolltranstions.com.au

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New South Wales, NowraSuite 12, 55-57 Berry St Nowra NSW 2541

New South Wales, ParramattaJessie St Centre, 2-12 Macquarie St Parramatta NSW 2150

New South Wales, SydneyLevel 12, 32 Walker StNorth Sydney NSW 2060

Northern Territory, DarwinLot 1, 450 Winnellie RoadWinnellie NT 0820

Northern Territory, KatherineBuilding 255, Newham circ. RAAF Base Tindal

Queensland, BrisbaneLevel 6, 369 Ann St Brisbane QLD 4000

Queensland, CairnsNQX Building, 74 Lyons St Portsmith QLD 4870

Queensland, IpswichUnit 3, Level 1, 8 Gordon St Ipswich QLD 4305

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Victoria, MelbourneLevel 8, 380 St Kilda RoadMelbourne VIC 3004

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22 NEWS

By Michaela Walsh

AN EXECUTIVE assistant’s dedi-cation and hard work was recently recognised when she was a finalist for a national award.

Louise Mortimer has worked as executive assistant (EA) to Director-General Reserves – Navy for two-and-a-half years. She was nomi-nated by her boss, CDRE Ranford Elsey, for Category One of the EXPAND EA/PA of the Year Award.

Although Ms Mortimer didn’t win the award, which was presented in Canberra on August 5, she was one of only four nominees to pro-gress to the interview stage and finals.

Ms Mortimer said she was sur-prised and honoured by the nomina-tion.

“I had no idea that I had been nominated until I got a phone call from CDRE Elsey telling me about the interview,” Ms Mortimer said.

“During the interview I was extremely nervous, but I just tried to do my best.”

EXPAND is a public sector net-work of EAs, Personal Assistants (PA) and equivalent job descrip-tions.

The organisation aims to raise the importance of EA and PA roles and provide support where neces-sary.

EXPAND’s EA/PA of the Year Award has been running for 12 years, however, this year it was split into two categories – Category One for APS levels 2-5 and Category Two for levels 6 and above.

CDRE Elsey said Ms Mortimer came from a commercial back-ground as a manager with no expe-rience in Defence or as an EA, but

TOP OF HER GAME: Louise Mortimer with her nomination award at the EXPAND EA/PA of the Year Awards, held in Canberra on August 5.

A STRONG boating safety mes-sage was at the heart of Navy’s Australian Hydrographic Service (AHS) exhibition at the Sydney International Boat Show.

The event, held at Darling Harbour, welcomed nearly 75,000 visitors from July 29 to August 3.

Hydrographer of Australia, CDRE Rod Nairn said the AHS boat show stand showcased the service that Navy delivers to all mariners in Australian waters, providing offi-cial, trustworthy nautical charts that are constantly updated.

“There are nearly 230,000 boat licenses and almost 500,000 regis-tered boats in NSW alone,” he said.

“It’s vital ly important for all skippers to know that NSW Maritime Regulations require them to carry up-to-date official AHS or Admiralty paper charts if they are going offshore,” CDRE Nairn said.

There have been a number of

serious boating accidents in the past few years as a result of mariners not using official charts to navigate, and relying too much on non-official chart plotters and GPS data.

The AHS used the boat show as a platform to educate the public about the dangers of not carrying official charts, the difference between offi-cial and non-official charts, and the use of GPS devices.

The AHS was situated with-in metres of the entrance, in the ‘Marine Precinct’ – a grouping of 12 Government or regulatory bod-ies, including Boating Industry Australia, AMSA, NSW Maritime and the NSW Water Police.

“Working together with other regulatory organisations has served to raise the profile of the AHS, and provided a central hub for people to have their boating safety questions answered,” CDRE Nairn said.

“This was our most successful

year to date, which is only fitting as we celebrate our 90th anniversary in 2010.”

The AHS welcomes volun-teers from the broader Navy com-munity to ‘man the stand’ at the next Sydney International Boat Show in early August 2011. If you are interested you can contact [email protected] for more information.

Every year there are queries from people interested in joining the Navy and learning more about what it involves.

The Sydney International Boat show is now in its 43rd year, filling more than 28,000m² of undercover displays and a custom-built marina showcasing more than 200 vessels.

For more information on the Australian Hydrographic Service go to www.hydro.gov.au

AHS brings safety message to mariners

SAFETY MESSAGE: Staff from the Australian Hydrography Service were on-hand at the Sydney International Boat Show to answer peoples’ questions.

Navy EA’s hard work pays off

had realised remarkable success in her career change.

He said for Ms Mortimer to make it through to the finals was proof of her success as an EA within Defence.

“It is a real credit to her ini-tiative, intelligence, professional

demeanour, pleasant disposition and charming personality,” CDRE Elsey said.

The 2010 award for Category One went to Melbourne-based Keryn Roberts from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

23FEATURES


By LCDR Bill Canna

WHEN ABSTD Nadine Brischke posted from HMAS Manoora (CMDR Stephen

Dryden) earlier this month there was a novel change to the time-old tradition of presenting a gift to the person leaving.

In this case the budding young artist presented the ship with one of her latest pieces of artwork titled, “Vitality”, which is now on proud display within the ship.

ABSTD Brischke’s interest in painting started out as a hobby three years ago; however, she now sees art as a key part of her life.

While she is not influenced by any one particular style, she prefers her own style of abstract expres-sionism. She rarely uses brushes because she tries to incorporate several mediums into her art-work, favouring the use of oils and Origami.

When asked why she decided to donate the painting to the ship, ABSTD Brishke said it was because she had such a fun and happy time during her Manoora posting.

She hopes the painting provides a sense of happiness and well being

to the ship’s company and to the ship’s many visitors when they are aboard.

When CMDR Dryden was pre-sented with the painting he said it was quite a privilege to know that someone identified so strongly with the ship to present such a magnifi-cent painting.

“It is also interesting that the painting’s title of “Vitality” coin-cides with what one could say is a revitalisation of Manoora,” CMDR Dryden said.

“Manoora has just completed an extensive EMA in which substantial advances were made in its material state. The overall outcome from this period is a ship that is safer and stronger. In many ways, this paint-ing reflects the new and revitalised Manoora.”

Manoora will shortly resume her seagoing program for the year, conducting a Unit Readiness Evaluation concurrent with par-ticipation in Exercise Hamel; a major Army-led, joint-enabled amphibious and land exercise in Queensland.

Following this, the ship will conduct a short deployment to New Zealand.

DEPARTING GIFT: ABSTD Nadine

Brischke presents her artwork, “Vitality”,

to HMAS Manoora’s CO, CMDR Stephen

Dryden.

A colourful A colourful departuredeparture

HMAS Manoora

Great War mystery hard to put down


24 FEATURES

Death Between the LinesAuthor: Ian GrantPublisher: Triple D Books196 pagesRRP: $19.95Rating:

THIS book has something for everyone.

There’s heaps of blood-and-guts action with an AIF battalion in France’s muddy trenches, some unsolved murders in 1920s Sydney, and a touch of romance – but not enough to spoil the book for those who buy it for the first two reasons.

Rex Pymble, a Sydney detec-tive, joins the AIF after the unex-pected death of his wife. He men-tions his former occupation on his enlistment form hoping it will get him into officer training.

His plan backfires and he is posted to the Provost Corps where he is sent into the trenches to

★★★★✩

investigate money going missing from a battalion’s trust fund.

The gritty description of life (and death) in the trenches shows the author has done his home-work. You can almost smell the

BOOK REVIEW

INSPIRATIONAL: Arthur and Mirla Bancroft (fore-ground) with HMAS Stirling’s CO, CAPT Brett Dowsing (left) and John Harman, author of Arthur’s War at the book launch at Subiaco Oval in Perth.Photo: LSIS Nadia Monteith

By LEUT Katey Mouritz

IN NOVEMBER 1940, compelled by patriotic duty and a sense of adventure, Arthur Bancroft kissed his sweetheart, Mirla, goodbye and signed up with the Royal Australian Navy; he was 19 years old.

‘Arthur’s War’ is a touching account of the World War II experi-ences of Ordinary Seaman Arthur Bancroft, as a RAN sailor and POW under the Japanese.

The account is made all the more human by the parallel story-telling of Arthur’s then sweetheart, Mirla, and now wife of 65 years.

Mirla shares her experience of life back in Australia, waiting for Arthur to return, alongside Arthur’s story of war and imprisonment.

‘Arthur’s War’ is a truly amazing Australian story: a captivating story of a once ordinary bloke who has had an extraordinary life.

‘Arthur’s War’ was launched in Subiaco, Western Australia – Arthur and Mirla’s home town – where CAPT Brett Dowsing (CO HMAS Stirling) spoke about the book and his experi-ence with Arthur and Mirla Bancroft.

“Arthur is an extraordinary man and, through his book, we get an understanding of why he is extraordi-nary,” CAPT Dowsing said.

“This is a fascinating story and we are privileged that Arthur and Mirla have told it.

“History is so important to a tra-dition-based organisation such as the Navy. It is the history such as Arthur’s story that is their legacy and our herit-age, which is our obligation to per-petuate. Arthur’s story in no small way has forged a place in that history.”

Throughout his career with the Navy, Arthur made a habit of cheating death.

His first encounter was aboard

the heroic but ill-fated HMAS Perth, which was sunk during the Battle of the Sunda Strait.

Having defied death in the water, Arthur was captured by the Japanese and despatched to the notoriously bru-tal Burma-Thai Railway, where it is said a man died for every sleeper laid on the track.

There he endured slave labour, bru-tality, disease and severe deprivation.

Fellow POWs became his family, and Arthur risked his life to keep a secret diary written on scraps of paper with stolen pencils recording the agony and larrikin antics of life on the railway.

After 15 months, though weak and skeletal, Arthur was selected to sail to Japan to work the coalmines.

In transiting to Japan in the middle of the South China Sea the Japanese fleet came under torpedo attack from US submarines, and the vessel Arthur was aboard – the Rakuyo Maru – was sunk.

Once again Arthur found himself lost at sea, covered in oil, and clinging to wreckage in water littered with the bodies of his fellow POW’s.

After six unimaginable days and nights he was finally rescued by a US submarine.

Of the 717 POWs on the Rakuyo Maru with Arthur, 543 were lost with 82 rescued by the Japanese and 92 by US submarines.

Against all odds Arthur made it back to Australia and to Mirla who, throughout all those years he was missing in action, never gave up hope for his eventual return.

“Arthur’s War” was launched just one week after the release of Mike Carlton’s comprehensive account of HMAS Perth I, entitled “Cruiser”.

These two books are complemen-tary to each other, in their ability to tell a fascinating Navy story from two very

Touching account of WWII

different perspectives – the historical and the personal.

The writing of this book has been a collaboration between Arthur Bancroft and John Harman. John has worked as a journalist in the UK and US, and has written for film and television.

CAPT Dowsing said Arthur’s book went a long way to correcting the bal-

ance (between accounts of land and maritime action) and providing insight into war at sea.

“It is a powerful story of great example and one that all current and future naval personnel should aspire to emulate. You are a legend; a true hero, but still in all ways, a naval sailor. We are incredibly proud of you.”

Author’s note:

Of the 681 ship’s company in HMAS Perth when she was lost off Sunda Strait on March 1, 1942, only 218 lived through this action and sur-vived their prisoner of war experi-ence to return to Australia in 1944 and 1945.

rotting corpses.Moving forward to 1930,

Pymble comes across a list of unsolved murders. On closer examination he finds the victims are all blokes from the battalion he visited in France.

Along the way he becomes involved with a police inspector’s daughter and both the romance and investigation move along fair-ly quickly, taking them to Denman in the Hunter Valley.

With the help of a switched-on country cop, the murderer is arrested after a brief shoot-out, the whole mystery is cleverly unravelled, and the hero and his girl ride off into the sunset, so to speak.

This is the author’s first novel and he hasn’t done a bad job of it.

A very good read and at times hard to put down.

– SGT Dave Morley

BOOK REVIEW

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25GANGWAY

TASTE OF SUCCESS: (Above) Deputy Training Authority Logistics Supply and Health, CMDR Roland Van Geelen, presents SMNCK Wallis Beresford with a certificate of com-pletion for Initial Cook Course 112, at Frankston TAFE, in Victoria.Photo: ABIS Andrew Black

ALL SMILES: (Left) ABBM Isaac Ingu has enjoyed his time aboard HMAS Parramatta dur-ing her six-month deployment on Operation Slipper in the MEAO.Photo: SGT Brent Tero

SIM SONAR: (Above) ABAWAS Amanda Moss (centre) on the Collins Data Workstation-Sonar 5, Submarine Combat Simulator, at HMAS Stirling.Photo: ABIS Lincoln Commane

SUB HUNTER: (Right) LSA Greg Doran stands by the door of Sea King Shark 07, which now bares his new nickname, ‘Pinger’. LSA Doran suc-cessfully detected and located an opposing force submarine during Exercise RIMPAC 2010.Photo: ABIS James McDougall

DOING THE ADMIN: ABCD Jackson Sharp writes up the dive log during diving operations in Solomon Islands.Photo: ABIS Jo Dilorenzo

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26 GANGWAY

ON THE BALL: (Above) ABMTSM Luke Masterson takes notes during medical emergency training at HMAS Stirling.Photo: LSIS Phillip Cullinan

LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE: (Left) Officer of the Watch, SBLT Richard Martin, takes a fix on HMAS Brunei’s position while trans-iting to Honiara, Solomon Islands.Photo: ABIS Jo DilorenzoCAPTION: (Right) ABMTs Nimrod Arevalo and James Braid with a bearing pusher for the tail rotor drive shaft of a Sea King helicop-ter. The two sailors made the part in the engineering workshop on board HMAS Kanimbla during Exercise RIMPAC 2010.Photo: ABIS James McDougall

IN THE OFFICE: ABCD Kaine Duncan dives in Solomon Islands.Photo: ABCD Jackson Sharp

FLOAT ON: (Above) A general entry recruit bobs in the water during survival-at-sea instruction at HMAS Cerberus.Photo: ACW Joanne Larsen

HAPPY IN THE SERVICE: (Above) POBs Matthew Gauley and Robert Byrne are all smiles at a promotions and awards ceremony held at HMAS Cerberus.Photo: ABIS Andrew BlackPROUD PARENTS: (Right) From left, Lynda Johnston, graduation reviewing officer CDRE Daryl Bates, Darryl Johnston and SMN Tim Johnston. SMN Johnston was one of 154 recruits to graduate from HMAS Cerberus recently. He is now training as a cook and hopes to serve on patrol boats.

starting out with three sessions a week, including one short-interval session, one longer-interval session and a single long, slow, distance run. However, depending on your current fitness level, terms such as ‘short’ and ‘long’ can change. Indeed, a dis-tance that constitutes a long run for a complete beginner might also qualify as a single interval for an advanced trainee.

To put it into perspective, see the programs listed at right for a couple of sample training weeks for begin-ners and intermediates.

For more information on the author, visit www.octogen.com.au

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

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27HEALTH


A fundamental hurdle facing anyone with an interest in fitness is the beep or multi-stage shuttle test.

Over the past couple of years I’ve received a lot of enquiries about pass-ing the beep test, so here is a quick and dirty guide covering what the beep test is and how to train for it.

The beep test is a type of graded exertion test. It consists of running back and forward between two lines 20m apart to a soundtrack of beeps that get closer together as the test progresses.

Basically, the pace of the test starts out relatively low and increases each

Passing the test

minute. As the pace increases, so does the load on your legs, heart and lungs. Eventually, you reach a point where you are unable to maintain the required pace and, eventually, your score is recorded as the number of levels plus number of 20m shuttles reached.

The beep test is primarily a test of aerobic fitness although, at the end of a maximal effort, an element of lactate tolerance is required as well.

Because the beep test is mainly a test of aerobic fitness, many people make the mistake of training for it by doing a lot of long, slow distance run-ning, such as 5km and 10km runs.

However, this is actually one of

the worst ways to train for the beep test. Running long distances at a slow pace is a good way to get good at run-ning slowly, but it doesn’t do much for your top-end speed or your ability to deal with the increasing difficulty of the test. In addition, doing a lot of long-distance work can lead to over-use injuries such as shin splints.

In order to get better at the beep test, you need to work on a combina-tion of longer, easier runs and shorter, harder-interval work. The trick is to combine the two in the correct ratio to see continued improvement without over training.

When putting together a training program for the beep test, I suggest

BEGINNERThis sort of program is suitable for a complete beginner whose goal is to reach the minimum standard for enlistment into the ADF (typically between 6.5 and 7.5).

� Monday – jog for 30 seconds, walk for 60 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

� Wednesday – jog for 60 seconds, walk for 60 seconds. Repeat eight times.

� Friday – jog 1.6km as fast as pos-sible.

Each week increase the time or pace of the running intervals and decrease the rest periods. Increase the distance of the long run by 400-800m.

INTERMEDIATEThis program is suitable for a trainee who can already pass the basic level and who is looking to achieve a higher level of fitness.

� Monday – run at max pace for 30 seconds, walk for 60 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

� Wednesday – Run 800m as fast as possible, rest for two minutes. Repeat three times.

� Friday – run 6km.Each week, increase the time or pace of the intervals and decrease the rest periods. Alternate between longer, slower runs and some shorter, harder distances on the Friday.By following these types of programs, not only will you develop a good level of aerobic fitness, but you’ll also develop the top-end speed and lactate tolerance required for a great beep-test score.

Want to score well in the beep test? With the right training, you can, writes fitness specialist Don Stevenson.

Finding it hard to help your people with

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ADF Financial Services Consumer CouncilADF Financial Services Consumer Council

28 FINANCE


IN THESE articles I often say the training and discipline you receive as ADF members can be trans-ferred to your financial lives.That is especially the case when it

comes to borrowing, whether it’s your home loan, car loan, credit card or anything else where you owe money.

Getting into debt is easier than getting out of it. So before you even think about borrowing money, work out how much you can afford to bor-row, remembering that your financial situation can change without warning. As with anything you buy, it’s smart to know who and what you’re deal-ing with and always worth shopping around for the best deal.

1. Work out if you can afford to borrowBefore you borrow, use our budg-

et planner to see exactly where your money goes now and how much you could afford in repayments. Remember to allow for interest rate rises and any-thing that might affect your income in the future (for example, starting a fam-ily or home renovations).

2. Shop around for the best dealIf you decide to borrow, take the

time to compare interest rates, prod-uct features, fees and charges. Even a small difference in the interest rate can make a big difference to what you have to repay.

It always pays to get a number of quotes from a number of sources before you make any decisions. And make sure you understand the fine print. If you don’t understand some-thing at first, be sure to ask lots of questions until you do.

3. Know who and what you’re dealing withCheck that the person or organisa-

tion you’re dealing with is registered or licensed with ASIC. Make sure you know what you’re signing up for before you go ahead. Check the terms and conditions of any loan contract, including penalties for missed repay-ments or for paying off a loan early.

Borrowing tactics

4. Keep up with your repaymentsKeep your repayments up-to-date

and make extra payments when you can to save on interest, subject to the conditions of your loan.

Try to pay off the entire amount owing on your credit card each month. If you can’t pay it all off at once, come up with a plan to pay it off within a few months by setting aside money directly from your pay.

Check for fees or charges if you’re thinking of transferring your credit balance to another card, consolidating your loans or refinancing.

5. Get help if you can’t pay your debtsIt’s important to act quickly if

you’re having trouble making repay-ments. Keep paying what you can afford. Even though it can be difficult to face the problem, ignoring it will only make things worse. Contact your credit provider without delay. There are places you can go for help.

6. Complain if things go wrongTry to resolve any problem with

your credit provider or broker first. If you aren’t satisfied, take your com-plaint to a free independent dispute resolution scheme – you can contact the scheme your credit provider or broker belongs to by calling 1300 780 808. You can also complain to ASIC online at www.asic.gov.au or phone ASIC’s Infoline on 1300 300 630.

ASIC’s role in credit and borrowing money

On July 1 ASIC became the nation-al regulator for consumer credit and finance broking, taking over from the States and Territories.

For more information about the new regulatory framework including the legislation, licensing process, gen-eral obligations and the timeframe in which the changes will take effect, go to www.asic.gov.au/credit

For more information visit ASIC’s consumer and investor website, FIDO at www.fido.gov.au or call 1300 300 630. Email ASIC with topics that interest you: [email protected]

STRINGS ATTACHED: Money always comes with accompanying obliga-tions and conditions. Know your parameters, find the deal that suits you best and understand what you’re getting into.Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

ASIC Chairman, Tony D’Alosio, advises how to get the best outcome when taking out a loan.

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29SPORT

By LAC Aaron Curran

THE 2010 Australian Country Championships for hockey were a dramatic eight days at the National Hockey Centre in Canberra from July 31, with the ADF hosting the event this year.

The ADF Men’s and Women’s teams played sides from WA, SA, NSW, QLD and VIC in the bitter cold of the Canberra winter.

The women struggled with three losses and a draw with SA until the second last day of the competition when they beat VIC 3-0, reversing their fortunes.

President of the Australian Defence Hockey Association, FLTLT Peter Nugent, said the women were a tight-knit unit but they just weren’t able to string it together up front in the early matches.

“Even though they were a stronger side than in 2009, they were missing a real quality striker,” he said

During a match against VIC on August 5, CPL Cheri-Anne Shankster from the 1st Military Police Battalion, was going in for a tackle when she was hit in the face at full swing, resulting in a compound fracture to the jaw, loss of some teeth and facial injuries.

“It happened right before the men’s game while they were watch-ing,” FLTLT Nugent said.

“A lot of the players have known her for a long time and I think they might not have been in the right head-space after seeing that.”

The men went down to VIC in the next game 7-2, their biggest loss of the tournament, when either a win,

draw or even a loss by three or less would have guaranteed them a semi-final berth.

Ironically, CPL Shankster’s injury gave the women the drive and heart to come out the next day and soundly beat VIC 3-0 in the qualifying final and SA 1-0 the day after – the latter win securing the bronze medal.

FLTLT Nugent said LS Talei Stoll and LEUT Christie Underwood really stood out for the women during the tournament.

“Both women are definitely good enough to play in the Australian Hockey League,” he said.

“LEUT Underwood and LS Stoll were both walk-up starts to the Australian Country Open Women’s side and LS Stoll was named co-cap-tain of the side for the second year.”

The men started the comp in fine form winning their first two games 3-1 against WA and SA but followed with 4-1 (QLD) and 3-1 (NSW) losses, followed by the big defeat against VIC the day after.

“The boys opened really strongly and had the stronger sides worried,” FLTLT Nugent said.

“The loss against VIC would have been fine if it wasn’t as big as it was.

“We made a couple of changes for that game that didn’t bear fruit.”

He said there were positives that came out of the tournament with a couple of Navy players standing out.

“Despite the disappointing fifth placing for the men, PO Derek Bunt and LS Brendan Taylor were selected in the Australian Country Open Men’s side, with LS Stoll being appointed to the coaching panel.

Hockey champs test of spirit

RESULTSADF Women: ThirdADF Men: Fifth

Australian Country Open Men Representatives:➤ FLTLT Mark Ross➤ LS Brendan Taylor➤ PO Derek Bunt➤ WO2 Scott Downs

(Manager)➤ LS Ashley Stoll (Coaching Panel)

Australian Country Open Women Representatives:➤ LEUT Christie

Underwood➤ LS Talei Stoll➤ LEUT Donna Douglas

(Coaching Panel)

Australian Country U21 Men Representative:➤ PTE Gareth Hoddinott

Australian Country U21 Women Representatives:➤ LCPL Jessica

Antonovich➤ WO2 Ron Fairhall

(Coaching Panel)

TOO FAST: LEUT Christie Underwood outruns her Queensland opponent.

FOCUS: LS Talei Stoll in action

against the Queensland side.

ON THE ATTACK: LS Brendan Taylor on the attack against the Queensland side.Photos: LAC Aaron Curran

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30 SPORT


THE Navy Nordic Skiing and Biathlon team has broken a 21-year drought by winning the ADF Nordic Skiing and Biathlon championships held at Mt Hotham from August 1-13.

The team was boosted by a swag of talented newcomers who proved too strong for the Army and Air Force skiers.

Team manager, WOET Ian Waller, said he was excited by the outcome.

“This result is due to years of hard work, where we have focused on develop-ing the sport at the grass roots level,” he said.

“We are now in a position where we can take the skills developed for the com-bined disciplines of small bore marks-manship and skiing to a new level in the Navy team.

“Take for example, ABBM Michael Herbert , the winner of the Navy Champion Shot trophy. He couldn’t ski when he arrived, but now he’s not only a competent skier, but a good marksman. He remained calm under the pressure of competition and shot better than our seasoned campaigners – an impressive effort.”

Most promising novice team mem-ber and a strong performer in all open women’s races, ABCK Lisa Russell, said she had never experienced the challenge of skiing and shooting.

“Growing up in Tawonga, I was lucky that I could ski as a kid,” she said.

“Adding shooting makes it interesting; I definitely hope I can represent Navy again – I want to do my part in keeping those trophies with Navy!”

The Navy newcomers won the nov-ice trophy for the first time in the his-tory of the event. The men’s novice team

of LEUT Phil Beaver, CPOET Tony Burchill, Kurt Pudnicks, POB Steve Morrison, ABBM Michael Herbert, ABMT Simon Ruuska and SMNMT Dan Mendonca were neck and neck with a strong Army men’s novice team.

It was a close battle to win allocated points for the variety of events held dur-ing the competition.

While it appeared Army had the edge, it was the female novice team of LSPT Carrie Downey, ABMED Jacqui Russell and SMNET Tegan Brooks who clinched the decider for Navy. They were in a class of their own and came second overall in the novice military patrol event.

ABMT Jen North had an outstanding series of races pushing the open women’s team to a convincing win in the cross country and military patrol events.

“I love the military patrol,” she said.“You have to navigate and ski from

challenge to challenge, and points are awarded based on how well you go in military-type activities like navigation, first aid and reconnaissance. If your team doesn’t work well together you fail – we Navy ladies got the teamwork sorted!”

While the Navy open women were very strong again in 2010, it was the com-bined effort of the open men, propped up by an impressive first time perfor-mance from ABMT Simon Ruuska and continued good results from LCDR Garry Lewis and LEUT Chris Cole that resulted in overall victory for Navy.

Anyone interested in learning more about Navy Nordic Skiing and Biathlon should con-tact WOET Ian Waller via email at [email protected] or visit www.skinavy.com

Skiers on fire in Aussie alps

OFF AND RACING: (Above) ABCK Lisa Russell was a strong performer in all open women’s races.

MARKSMANSHIP PRINCIPLES: (Above left) ABCK Lisa Russell takes aim in the shooting section of the competi-tion.

OFF TO A GOOD START: (Left) POB Steve Morrison, from the men’s novice team, is off and racing.

Photos provided by WOET Ian Waller

31SPORT


By Michael Brooke

FSU-KUTTABUL defeated Albatross Blue 2-0 to win the Adelaide Cup/Benny Hill Plate Eastern Area Association Touch Football Championship at Randwick Barracks on August 4.

FSU-Kuttabul’s triumph denied Albatross the opportunity to record its third consecutive victory in the competition, which traditionally serves as a selection trial for the tri-Service touch championship later in the year.

Sixteen teams competed in the competition, which was played at a very high tempo and featured slick passing, sensational attacking moves and desperate defence.

FSU-Kut tabul’s heroes of the day were team captain POET Damien Tanaka and AB Edward Smith, who both scored touchdowns in the final.

POET Tanaka posted the first touchdown when he bamboozled several defenders with flashy foot-work early in the first half.

But the turning point in the match came in the second stanza when AB Smith intercepted a long pass from Albatross Blue captain, LSPT Darin Trudgett, to score the match winner.

POET Tanaka said the win established FSU as the Navy sports powerhouse, after victories in the Patrons Cup and the Mons Cup ear-lier this year.

He nominated LS Dan Capilli as the man of the match, in trib-ute to his speed and sidestep, which saw him cross the try line for what should have been touchdown num-ber three, but in a moment of confu-sion ran over the dead-ball line.

LS Chris Lewis, FSU-Kuttabul, was crowned player of the tourna-ment.

Speaking about the intercept pass, LSPT Trudgett told Navy News he gambled with a long pass which, had it stuck, would have allowed his winger to score the equaliser.

“We didn’t have all our best

League boys go down fighting

Kuttabul too good in touch footy comp

players available for this competi-tion, but nonetheless FSU were too good for us on the day,” he said.

LSPT Trudgett said the compe-tition was a great success and the Kuttabul PTs deserved praise for organising the event.

FSU-Kuttabul and Albatross Blue earned their berths in the final courtesy of victories over their B

teams, with FSU-Kuttabul thumping FSU-Sydney 5-0 and Albatross Blue defeating Albatross White 4-1.

In the quarterfinals FSU-Kuttabul beat Penguin 3-0, FSU-Sydney defeated Success Roosters 4-1; Albatross White beat Manoora 7-3 and Albatross Blue thumped Waterhen 8-1.

DODGY: AB Mat Meier of the Albatross Blues dodges past Manoora players during an Adelaide Cup/Benny Hill Plate touch football match held at Randwick Barracks. Photos: ABIS Hayley Clarke

WINNERS!: FSU-Kuttabul’s captain PO Damien Tanaka slips past Albatross Blue player PO Ben Seaman to score the winning try in the final game of the Adelaidee Cup/Benny Hill Plate. (Inset) The winning FSU-Kuttabul players pose for a team photo.

By Michael Brooke

THE RAN beat the Royal Navy (RN) 20-12 but lost to arch-rival Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) 38-12 to fin-ish runner-up in the inaugural Tri-Nations Navy Rugby League tourna-ment recently.

While the RAN team did not win the title, they certainly won the respect of their opponents, with gritty performanc-es that saw AB Simon Hoare voted the players’ player of the tournament and LS Dan Capilli elected best player.

RAN tackled RNZN in the first match with RNZN performing the haka to let their opponents know they were in for a hard game.

Despite many RAN players tackling themselves to a standstill, the RNZN team posted four converted tries for a handy 24-0 lead at half-time.

The Kiwis were well served by sev-eral big and powerful forwards who cre-ated try-scoring opportunities for their fleet-footed backs.

Second-half action was a different story, however, thanks to a massive rev-up from RAN coach Dave Kemp.

RAN posted two quick converted tries in the second half, but their slow start in the first half cost them any chance of victory, with the final score 38-12.

Bouncing back in the second match, RAN defeated RN 20-14.

RAN played with great passion against the old foe and raced to a 12-0 lead through converted tries to AB Matt Docker and AB Bobby Ashman.

RN put on a late try in the first half through an intercept against the run of

play, which saw RAN hold a handy 12-4 lead.

S e c o n d - h a l f a c t i o n s aw A B Christopher Hastings-Ison score near the corner from a clever kick, but RN hit back with two quick tries to make the score 16-12 with 20 minutes to play.

RAN players repelled wave after wave of attacking moves by RN and were rewarded for their strong defence when AB Docker put AB Edward Smith over in the corner for a final score of 20-12.

In the final match RNZN beat RN to win the tournament.

RAN Rugby League President CMDR Glenn Ker said the RAN team played very well.

“There were some great displays of football from all players, with some of the standouts being LS Matt Docker and LS Dan Struber, of HMAS Albatross, while there were none better than AB Hoare and LS Capilli.”

RAN Rugby League has since moved back into the local Cronulla, NSW, com-petition, vying for a finals berth in prepa-ration for the East Australian Area Sports Challenge this month.

That is followed by the national inter-Service tournament in the last week of September in Townsville.

Navy needs to avenge its losses to Army and RAAF last year and is calling for all available A-grade or higher grade players and support and management staff to nominate for the national side, which will enter a training camp this month.

Interested players should contact CMDR Ker at [email protected]

By SBLT Ashley Harris

HMAS Sirius (CMDR David McDonald) played host to AFL foot-ball stars Brent Guerra, Colin Silvia and Brad Sewell during a port visit to Melbourne recently.

The CO, CMDR McDonald, hosted the Hawthorn and Melbourne players for dinner, afterwards providing a tour of the ship which saw the stars visit the ward-room and messes.

Sirius’ AFL fans thoroughly enjoyed the visit from the sportsmen with a large proportion of the crew going on to attend

Sirius hosts AFL stars

AFL games at both Etihad Stadium and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, mak-ing the most of Melbourne’s sporting culture.

L-R: Brad Sewell, Colin Silvia, WO Grant Leepere and Brent Guerra.

SportVolume 53, No. 16, September 2, 2010Volume 53, No. 16, September 2, 2010

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TOUGH COMPETITION: LS Talei Stoll in action against the Queensland side in the 2010 Australian Country Championships in Canberra.Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

TEST OF TEST OF SPIRITSPIRIT

ADF players ADF players battle it out in battle it out in country hockey country hockey champschamps

P29P29

Skiing to victoryPage 30

Documents

NNavya SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDESERVING AvUSTRALIA ... · T The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navyhe official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy In the August