AIRF RCEVol. 59, No. 10, June 15, 2017 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

Diamond Spear – Page 5Bomber Command tribute – Page 2, centre

‘Witness the very best of human

spirit’

Page 3

Prince Harry meets Invictus Games training squad member LAC Wade Roberts at Admiralty House, Sydney.Photo: Jayson Tufrey

HARRY’SHEROES

Prince Harry launches2018 Invictus Games in Sydney

DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

EditorLawrence Dutrieux: (02) 6266 7612

ReportersWO2 Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614SGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Bill Solomou: (02) 6265 1355CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304CPL Sebastian Beurich: (02) 6265 4140

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Living the Air Force Values: RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORK

AIRF RCE

2 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FNews

CPL Bill Solomou and FLGOFF Erika Seymour

THE brave airmen of Bomber Command were honoured during two significant events at the Australian War Memorial (AWM) in Canberra, on June 3 and 4.

About 40 Bomber Command vet-erans took part in the two commemo-rations – a Last Post ceremony in the commemorative area and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Bomber Command Memorial.

Hundreds of Air Force person-nel, WWII veterans, officials and members of the public attended the ceremonies. staged by Air Force, the Bomber Command Association A u s t r a l i a ( B C A A ) , B o m b e r Command Commemorative Day Foundation (BCCDF) and the AWM.

More than a third of the 3486 Australian aviators who served with Bomber Command were killed while engaged in a major bombing offen-sive against German targets in WWII.

On May 31, it was the 75th anni-versary of the “Thousand Bomber Raids”, in 1942.

The first mission of the Australian Article XV squadron – No. 460 Squadron – conducted its first opera-tions on March 12, 1942.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies said he was honoured to attend the Last Post ceremony and the 10th annual Bomber Command Commemorative Wreathlaying ceremony on June 4, when he met with veterans and their families.

“Bomber Command is a signifi-cant part of Air Force’s history. To be able to remember those Australian aviators who served with Bomber Command and never returned, and hear the stories of those who sur-vived, is a special opportunity,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“It is important to reflect on our aviation history in Europe, as we apply the same values and dedication on operations over Iraq today.”

An F/A-18 Hornet conducted a fly-past on both days, linking history with the operational service of airmen today.

“Someone asked why we had a Hornet fly-over. These men and women provided a bombing force for WWII to enable the war to be won,

and right now we have Hornets flying over Iraq deploying bombs on targets, trying to defeat ISIS, so the war can be won,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“I think the link is absolutely direct. It is very real, and when you talk to these veterans, and tell them about our young airmen flying today, they all understand exactly what is going on because their stories are still vivid and relevant.”

CO 460SQN WGCDR Cal Harrison said it was an honour for the squadron to attend the event.

“The courage, sacrifice and self-lessness displayed by that greatest of generations to defend our freedom and defeat tyranny is truly inspira-tional,” WGCDR Cal Harrison said.

“It drives the current squadron to strive to continue that rich history of distinguished service in the spirit of those who have gone before us.”

ACM Sir Angus Houston (retd), Honorary Patron of the BCCDF, attended the services with his family.

“I have had a lot to do with the veterans of the Bomber Command through many, many years,” ACM Houston said.

“I feel very strongly that it’s

important we continue to support and recognise the contribution that Bomber Command made in WWII.”

Siblings Ron Smith and Robynne Mitchell attended in memory of their uncle FLGOFF Ron Feilberg, who served in No. 466 Squadron.

“FLGOFF Feilberg was the pilot of the plane. He sacrificed his life to save his crew by ordering the crew to bail out,” Ms Mitchell said.

They were pleased to catch up with Tiana Walker Adair, whose father, FLTLT Len Walker, flew with FLGOFF Feilberg in 466SQN.

“It’s so important to acknowledge their sacrifice. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Ron. His actions saved my father’s life and that of the crew,” Ms Walker said.

Ms Mitchell said the “ambience of the AWM was very fitting to the occasion”.

In addition to the fly-pasts, Air Force’s support included an Honour Guard from 460SQN, an all-Air Force catafalque party from Australia’s Federation Guard, music and bugler from the Air Force Band and ADFA Cadets to hold the asso-ciation banner.

‘Vivid and relevant’ stories of bravery

 Bravo, the bomber boys – Pages 12-13460SQN with Bomber Command and a Lancaster heavy bomber at RAF Station Binbrook in Lincolnshire, England, in July 1944.Photo: AWM

From left: AIRMSHL Leo Davies, veteran FLGOFF Lawrence Woods (retd), Robynne Mitchell and WOFF-AF Robert Swanwick with a portrait of FLGOFF Charles Rowland Williams (of Bomber Command) at the Last Post ceremony.Right: A 460SQN Honour Guard at the wreathlaying ceremony.Photos: FSGT Mark Eaton

AIRF RCEVol. 59, No. 10, June 15, 2017 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

Diamond Spear – Page 5Bomber Command tribute – Page 2, centre

‘Witness the very best of human

spirit’

Page 3

Prince Harry meets Invictus Games training squad member LAC Wade Roberts at Admiralty House, Sydney.Photo: Jayson Tufrey

HARRY’SHEROES

Prince Harry launches2018 Invictus Games in Sydney

Tax Agent No.25382262

I AMCPL Mark Doran

“THE Invictus Games shows us it is possible to overcome adversity and that the impossible is possible if you have the will.”

These were just some of the inspir-ing words from Patron of the Invictus Games Foundation HRH Prince Harry, who began the official 500-day count-down to the 2018 Invictus Games at a function held at Admiralty House in Sydney on June 7.

The event was at tended by Governor-General GEN Sir Peter Cosgrove, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Chairman of Invictus Games Sydney LTGEN Peter Leahy (retd).

They spoke to about 50 members of the 2017 Invictus Games Australian training squad who were joined at the launch by family and friends, as well as squad coaches and medical and sup-port staff.

Prince Harry said he was delighted to join the athletes and their families as they prepared for the final team selec-tion to represent Australia, and was thankful for the opportunity to explain the importance of the games.

“In February 2008, I was forced to leave Afghanistan where I had been serving as an officer with the British Army until my presence on the front-line leaked to the press,” he said.

“I could no longer stay with my soldiers as it would have put them at greater risk.

“It was a decision over which I had no control, but the guilt of having to leave my guys behind was hard to swallow – as anyone who has served would understand.”

Prince Harry said it was the flight home from Afghanistan which put

him on the path to create the Invictus Games.

“While we sat waiting to board, a coffin with a Danish soldier was load-ed onto the plane, along with three young wounded British soldiers,” he said.

“All three were wrapped in plastic, some with missing limbs, and tubes coming out of them everywhere. The sacrifices we ask our servicemen and women to make came home to me so powerfully in those moments.”

Four years later, after another tour in Afghanistan, Prince Harry began to look for ways to support veterans who had returned with injuries that in previous years would have been unsur-vivable.

A visit to the US Warrior Games in 2013 was a demonstration of what needed to be done and how sport could make a difference.

Prince Harry said in 2018 the games would be held in one of the most “sports mad” and iconic cities in the world, Sydney, which would be the custodian of the Invictus spirit.

“It will be the focus of hundreds of men and women using the games to motivate their recovery from physical and mental injuries,” he said.

“I know people from across the country, from Perth to Sydney, from Darwin to Adelaide, will embrace the games and show their support for the competitors. They will witness the very best of human spirit, cour-age, inspiration and defiance on the track, on the court and in the pool as they give it all to cross the line first then use what breath they have left to encourage others to achieve their own goals.”

Prince Harry said the spirit cham-pioned by the games extended far beyond the competition and was dem-

onstrated after the Manchester bomb-ing in May.

“Wounded veterans, including Invictus team members, immediately offered themselves to provide advice and support to the victims during their recovery process,” he said.

“The commitment to serve is ingrained in every member of the armed forces and is an embodiment of the Invictus spirit.

“The men and women of the armed forces and veteran community do not need our sympathy. In fact, it is the last thing they want. But they do deserve the utmost respect and an opportunity to play a valued role in our communities.

“The Invictus Games are coming to Australia – game on down under.”

The Invictus Games play a key role in the rehabilitation and re-integration of wounded, injured and ill members of the ADF, both currently serving and veterans.

The ADF and RSL are supporting a combined team of 43 serving and for-mer ADF members to compete in the Invictus Games in Toronto, Canada, this year.

From September 23-30, the Australian contingent will join more than 550 athletes from 17 nations (Afghanistan, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Georgia, Germany, Iraq, Italy, Jordan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Romania, Ukraine and US) competing in Toronto.

Athletes chosen to represent Australia at the Canada games have sustained a variety of physical and psychological injuries or illnesses dur-ing, or as a result of, their military service.

Sydney will host the games from October 18-29 next year.

We are ready to make a mark at Talisman SabreCPL Max Bree and WO2 Andrew Hetherington

AUSTRALIAN and US forces are gearing up for mid-to-high intensity warfare against “near-peer” adver-saries on the month-long Exercise Talisman Sabre (TS17), which begins at the end of June.

Forces will clash in conven-tional, irregular and cyber battles in the Northern Territory and around the Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA).

More than 30,000 Australian and US personnel will undertake opera-tions at sea, in the air and on land, with small contributions of person-nel participating from New Zealand, Japan and Canada.

Director-General ADF

Simulation and Training CDRE Allison Norris said the exercise would be conducted at locations in the US, Australia and on three seas.

“Personnel will operate in Hawaii, Korea, Japan, the Northern Territory, Queensland and on the Timor, Coral and Arafura seas,” CDRE Norris said.

“For the first time, the exercise will also use a non-Defence train-ing area around Stanage Bay, to the north of the SWBTA, for amphibi-ous operations.”

TS17 is a US-led, Australian-supported, combined and joint warfighting exercise, which CDRE Norris said would expose the 30,000 personnel to a wide range of military capabilities and training experiences.

Air Force will contribute a range of aircraft and personnel with RAAF Bases Darwin, Tindal, Townsville, Cairns, Amberley and Williamtown all being used during the exercise.

“Australia’s Army contribution will be from brigades and units from Forcomd, 1 Div and Socomd,” CDRE Norris said.

HMA ships Canberra, Choules, Anzac, Toowoomba, Ballarat, Darwin, Melbourne, Success, Diamantina, Huon, Gascoyne and Melville are also involved.

The US contribution will come from an aircraft carrier, amphibious ships and land units.

The exercise is scheduled to finish on July 26.

3June 15, 2017RCEAIR F News

spirit’s royal lift-off

Prince Harry meets Invictus Games training squad member LACW Melissa Roberts. Top: The Australian Invictus Games training squad at the Invictus Games 2018 launch at Admiralty House, Sydney. Photos: Jayson Tufrey

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4 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FNews

JUST three months before his capture by the North Vietnamese Army, then LCDR John McCain narrowly survived an explosion and fire that killed 134 of his ship-mates.

On July 29, 1967, LCDR Mc-Cain was near the epicentre of a fire on the flight deck of USS Forrestal.

He escaped from his burning jet and was trying to help an-other pilot escape when a bomb exploded, striking him in the legs and chest with fragments.

Later, LCDR McCain was on his 23rd bombing mission over Hanoi on October 26, 1967, when his A-4E Skyhawk was shot down.

Both arms and a leg were broken during ejection and he parachuted into Truc Bach Lake.

He managed to swim ashore,

and was captured by a group of North Vietnamese soldiers who bashed and bayonetted him.

They took him to Hanoi’s Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by US POWs), where, from August 1968, he was subjected to a program of severe torture.

He suffered rope bindings and repeated beatings every two hours. At the same time he was stricken with dysentery.

After five-and-a-half-years in captivity, now CDR McCain was released on March 14, 1973.

His wartime injuries left him permanently incapable of raising his arms above his head.

He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star for missions flown over North Vietnam.

Bombed, bruised and broken but not bowed

Shared story is ‘personal’

SGT Dave Morley

THE importance of the military alli-ance between Australia and the US, stretching back to July 4, 1918, was reinforced by US Senator John McCain during a Memorial Day address at Russell Offices on May 29.

The Arizona senator, a Vietnam War veteran, laid a wreath along-side CDF ACM Mark Binskin at the Australian-American Memorial.

Senator McCain said he was honoured to join so many Defence members at the memorial on a day

Americans observed as Memorial Day.“Our lands’ shared history of mili-

tary service has always been deeply personal to me,” he said.

“These are the stories I grew up on and, while Memorial Day may be an American occasion, I cannot think of a more fitting place to mark this special day than here with you in Australia.

“Ever since the Battle of Hamel, du r ing WWI, Amer i cans and Australians have left the lands they love and gone off into the world and served together, fought together, loved together and lost together.

“We’ve done so for each other as allies and, we do so still as our sons and daughters stand bravely together on fields of battle across the world, so all of us may enjoy a precious measure of peace.”

Senator McCain said Americans and Australians were still fighting in faraway places most of their citizens would never visit.

OFFCDT Max Murphy was among a group of ADFA cadets and midship-men who attended the ceremony.

He said it gave him an historical context to what Defence does and

reinforced the Australian and US tradi-tions.

“It’s amazing, [Senator McCain’s] entire story through Defence, the Vietnam War and now as a US sena-tor – an inspirational person for all of us,” he said.

S e n a t o r M c C a i n w a s t h e Republican nominee for the 2008 US presidential election. In 2015, he became chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

He spent two days in Australia before heading to Japan and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

US Senator John McCain after the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.Inset: OFFCDT Max Murphy at the Australian-American Memorial at Russell.Photos: Jay Cronan

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SQNLDR Bruce Chalmers

EXERCISE Diamond Spear, the fourth component of the Air Warfare Instructor’s Course (AWIC), tested ground-to-air communication using tactical data links in northern NSW.

The ADF Joint Interface Control Cell (JICC) deployed critical infra-structure in conditions replicating operational settings where fixed infra-structure has not yet been established.

JICC detachment OIC FLTLT Tom Dayman said the deployment to the Northern Training Area “provided a consistent level of network support,

allowing exercise participants to inter-act with each other”.

“Everyone in the exercise was able to communicate with each other and get vital information about their opera-tions when they needed it,” he said.

“This is vital in a fifth-generation air force if we are going to maximize the benefits of the platforms that are already in existence or soon to be in service with the Air Force.”

Five personnel deployed to Coonamble with the latest technology in tactical data link infrastructure. The system is compact and designed to be readily available as a forward opera-

tional communications link between air and ground elements in an opera-tions area.

No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit deployed a Tactical Air Defence Radar System (TADRS) to Gunnedah in sup-port of the exercise.

A small team of eight personnel, including radar and ground support equipment technicians and an air sur-veillance operator, provided enhanced radar detection and communications coverage of the exercise airspace, allowing pilots and air battle managers to coordinate more effectively.

In addition to demonstrating agil-

ity, the deployment exercised the capa-bilities 3CRU needs for its ongoing Homeland defence mission.

3CRU detachment commander SGT Mitch Gray said the team’s job was to maintain the equipment while it was operated remotely from the Eastern Region Operations Centre (EASTROC) at RAAF Williamtown.

“The rapid deployment and setting up of the TADRS allowed us to learn more about our roles because every deployment, exercise or operation has a different site and presents a different challenge,” he said.

“While mobile equipment such as

this looks to be pretty straightforward, it’s not as simple as just putting it up and flicking a switch.

“It takes careful planning and close integration with EASTROC to ensure we deliver what is required for the overall effort.”

The AWIC’s Diamond series cul-minates with Exercise Diamond Storm, currently running in the Northern Territory. The exercise is training fighter combat and intelli-gence instructors, and fighter combat controllers and includes the F/A-18A Hornet, F/A-18F Super Hornet, E-7A Wedgetail and C-130J Hercules.

Lining up seamless

links

5June 15, 2017RCEAIR F Diamond Spear

JICC communications and information system

controller LAC Shaun Douglas (left) and

1CCS communications electronic technician CPL

Matt Hamilton inspect equipment on a portable

mast during Exercise Diamond Spear.

Photos: CPL Nicci Freeman

Communication and information systems

3CRU communication electronics fitter LAC

Wayne Matthews checks the guy wires during

Exercise Diamond Spear.

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FLGOFF Graham Orams

THEY’RE straight off the street and ready to make their mark.

Following a re-design of the Loadmaster mustering, the first five corporal loadmaster trainees have graduated from 1RTU.

The five women are the first in a policy change that will now see load-master trainees begin their career as corporals, not sergeants.

The change comes as Air Force

allows loadmasters to be recruited direct from the street, as well as from within the permanent Air Force.

Director Air Mobility Division GPCAPT Don Sutherland said tak-ing direct-entry loadmaster trainees through Defence Force Recruiting opened up a wider recruiting pool.

“With the appropriate training, young people from the community can move straight into a loadmaster career without having to have been in

the Air Force for the previous five or 10 years,” he said.

“It opens up a much wider recruit-ing pool and gives us the ability to get younger members into the load-master mustering, giving the muster-ing more diversity.”

GPCAPT Sutherland said the rear of the aircraft was where the real business took place.

“Whether it be VIP jets, or cargo or passenger aircraft, the business

end of the aircraft is the passenger or the cargo compartment,” he said.

“This is where our loadmasters are vitally important to complete their mission day in and day out.”

Trainee loadmasters ACWs Tess Baillie and Belinda Behrens just graduated from 1RTU and are keen to begin initial employment training.

ACW Baillie ran her own busi-ness before joining Air Force and was always keen on a Defence career.

“The more I investigated the air-craft they use and the operations they do, I found it was right up my alley,” she said.

ACW Behrens was also running her own business before Air Force and saw the loadmaster career as “a thrilling role”. “The words ‘action-packed logistics role’ were put for-ward and I thought, well, I’m good at organising people and I like to be on the go,” she said.

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Eamon Hamilton

A NATIVE garden that carries cultural significance to Defence will greet future generations of visitors and personnel at RAAF Base Richmond.

A tree-planting ceremony was held at the base’s memorial to indigenous service members on June 1, as part of activities for Reconciliation Week.

The memorial, which is located near the base’s main gate, also acknowledges the land’s relationship to indig-enous communities, past and present.

Base SADFO AIRCDRE Richard Lennon said the tree planted on June 1 would be part of a native garden near the base’s main gate.

“Planting these trees is our way to add another piece to what is a significant cul-tural touchstone at RAAF Base Richmond,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“Thousands of people on this base – from the men and women who come to work here every day, through to national and international leaders who transit Richmond – will pass by and appreciate that indig-enous culture is important to us.”

Personnel at the ceremony on June 1 witnessed a traditional smok-ing ceremony, Welcome to Country

and address by local Dharug Elder Aunty Edna Watson, and an address by Air Force Elder Uncle Harry Allie. Senior Air Force Indigenous Liaison Officer WGCDR Jonathan Lilley provided a didgeridoo perfor-mance.

The indigenous memorial was installed during Reconciliation

Week in 2015, coinciding with the base’s 90th anni-versary.

AIRCDRE Lennon said Air Force had made an effort to acknowledge and foster a relationship with indigenous Australia in recent years.

“This is a connection that makes us uniquely Australian and is important to embrace,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“In our observance of events like Reconciliation Week it is important to recall not only the pain and scars of what has previ-ously occurred, but also seek opportunities to build a future together.”

Reconciliation Week 2017 coincides with the 25th anniversary of the High Court’s 1992 Mabo ruling, which legally recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a special rela-

tionship to the land.This year also marks the

50th anniversary of the 1967 Referendum, in which more than 90 per cent of Australians voted to give the Commonwealth the power to make laws for indigenous Australians and recognise them in the national census.

Cultural bonds take root

From left, Air Force Elder Uncle Harry Allie, Darug Elder Auntie Edna Watson and AIRCDRE Richard Lennon plant a tree at the RAAF Base Richmond indigenous memorial. Photo: FLTLT Emma Woods

Eamon Hamilton

AN IMPRESSIVE milestone was reached in a modest moment when No. 38 Squadron surpassed 30,000 flying hours with its King Air 350 transport aircraft.

The 30,000th hour ticked over dur-ing a post-maintenance test flight from RAAF Base Townsville on May 15.

But most of those hours have been spent delivering a critical service to Defence, according to Commander Air Mobility Group AIRCDRE Richard Lennon.

Since its induction into “Dingo Airlines” (38SQN) in November 2009, the King Air has provided flexible light transport across Australia and into the immediate region.

“The 38SQN King Airs have pro-vided Defence with a transport service that could not be efficiently replicated by any commercial or military alterna-tive,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“While the wider Air Mobility Group fleet has undergone a mas-sive transition in the past eight years, 38SQN has guaranteed a flexible air-lift solution whenever we needed it.”

The King Air’s eight-seat payload is modest by comparison to other AMG types, but 38SQN has proven its ability to deliver people where they’re needed.

This includes carrying passengers for federal elections, Defence exer-cises and disaster relief operations.

But its flexibility has also allowed 38SQN to conduct storm damage assessments and topographical pho-tography, and test rules of engagement during air combat training.

The King Airs are leased from Hawker Pacific, which also provides day-to-day maintenance for operation-al flying.

“The 38SQN King Airs, and our relationship with Hawker Pacific, have shaped how we apply an indus-try workforce to support operations,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“We’ve also seen junior pilots sent to 38SQN earn command experience with a multi-engine transport, and that’s served them well on larger air-craft types.”

FLTLT Chris Beauchamp said he had mentored many junior pilots with 38SQN in a variety of taskings.

“I’ve travelled to every part of Australia, along with Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Fiji and Tonga,” FLTLT Beauchamp said.

“We have the ability to react at very short notice and provide transport for VIPs into airstrips that might not be suitable for larger aircraft flown by No. 34 Squadron.

Proven ability to deliver

“On top of this, we have an ability to deploy aircraft with minimal sup-port, again at short notice.”

Fellow 38SQN pilot FLTLT Nathan White said this flexibility was demon-strated during Operation Queensland Assist 2017, after Cyclone Debbie hit the coast in March.

“We were able to provide a quick response platform that could provide the Joint Task Force Commander with real-time intelligence on the size of the area affected. We delivered real-

Top: Members of 38SQN and Hawker

Pacific celebrate the King Air’s (pictured above) milestone at

RAAF Base Townsville.Photos: CPL Glen McCarthy

time damage assessments of critical infrastructure and main supply routes, and recommended where rotary-wing assets were best placed to support the clean-up operation,” he said.

“38SQN crews were able to respond rapidly to requests for infor-mation in order to update command-ers’ critical information requirements, often while airborne.”

Rapid recovery of a 38SQN King Air – Page 15

8 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FNews

SQNLDR Ross Mitchell and FLGOFF Tracey Li

THE indigenous Gathang name “Gan Gan” (pronounced “garn garn”) is Headquarters 44 Wing’s new call sign for its Australian Airspace Control Element (ACE) while providing bat-tlefield airspace control (BAC).

In a ceremony at RAAF Base Williamtown, Worimi indigenous elders presented HQ44WG with a painting of the Gan Gan to represent the call sign.

Gathang is the language of the Worimi people, whose country includes the land on which the base, which houses HQ44WG, is located.

CO HQ44WG WGCDR David Shepherd said Gan Gan was the Gathang word for the white-bellied sea eagle.

“The Worimi people describe Gan Gan as constantly on watch, high in the sky, effortlessly using the wind to hold steady and true,” WGCDR Shepherd said.

“According to the Worimi people, Gan Gan is the lore keeper. The lore is what holds the community together and links many Aboriginal countries throughout our great land.

“By adopting Gan Gan for our ACE, we bring ancient and uniquely Australian culture into our contempo-rary work.

“This is a living symbol of our respect for indigenous Australians.”

OC 44WG GPCAPT Patrick

Cooper said military culture had much in common, and therefore many rea-sons to share, with Australia’s first people.

“Military people wear specific uniform and markings that show where we belong. We use specific language, we follow specific rituals,

and we associate ourselves with these markings, languages and ceremony,” GPCAPT Cooper said.

“They are part of our identity and

influence the way we conduct our-selves.

“We do them enthusiastically and proudly, to honour our heritage and to keep our culture alive.

“Similarly, indigenous Australians use identity, language and ceremony to honour heritage and keep culture alive.”

The Worimi meaning of Gan Gan is harmonious with the joint capabil-ity 44WG delivers through BAC, maintaining situational awareness and safely integrating disparate capabilities for maximum effect.

GPCAPT Cooper said the call sign aligned with 44 Wing’s “steadfastness” motto.

“44WG is responsible for air base air traffic services for military and civilian aircraft,” he said.

“We’re responsible for 11 flights across two squadrons at bases through-out Australia and on expeditionary operations.”

44WG is also responsible for pro-viding BAC, which includes tactical airspace control and coordination to safely facilitate joint fires and effects.

“This encompasses numerous domains and air power roles, from air defence activities and electronic warfare operations to remotely piloted aerial system operations,” GPCAPT Cooper said.

“The Gan Gan call sign – with its links to sea, air and land – symbolises 44WG’s role in the joint integration of air power.”

WGCDR Jonathan Lilley, Worimi Elder Uncle Neville Lilley and OC 44WG GPCAPT Patrick Cooper with the painting of a Gan Gan, representing the unit’s new call sign. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

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FeatureRCEAIR F June 15, 2017 9

A MODERN comms pack-age dubbed the “Telstra of the battlespace”, fea-turing new bearer and

network management systems, is on the way and will be released to No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron early next year.

The new battlefield telecommu-nications network uses satellites, line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight systems to connect deployed forces. An advanced data monitor-ing and management system will help optimise the network.

M y r a S e f t o n , D i r e c t o r -General of the Communications Systems Branch in the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, compared Project LAND2072 Ph2B (known as Currawong), to Australia’s largest telecommunica-tions network.

“When the ADF deploys into the field this will provide all the con-nectivity they would expect at the office,” she said.

The $650m acquisition program was awarded to Boeing Defence Australia in 2015 and recently dem-onstrated to Defence and CASG personnel.

“We’re probably jumping about two generations from the cur-rent Parakeet system,” director of Battlespace Communication pro-gram office Bob Hutchinson said.

“We are moving from voice-oriented capabilities to ones based

on digital data, including digitised voice.

“Everyone expects to have inter-net-like access to plan and fight from data terminals, rather than the relay of voice commands and sim-ple messages.”

The legacy Parakeet terminals were designed to deliver about 2 Mb/s, but Currawong’s satellite ter-minals will provide more than 10 times greater speeds.

The line-of-sight systems offer more than 40 Mb/s capacity, all within a secure environment.

DRN, DSN and a Mission Secret Network can be carried over the Currawong system and monitored by signallers in real time via a digi-tal interface.

XO 1CCS SQNLDR Daryl Henderson said the system would be delivered to the squadron’s ele-ments at RAAF Bases Edinburgh, Williamtown and Amberley.

“It would be good to use across airfields using the line-of-sight sys-tem,” he said.

“It would be great to push data around an airfield without running a whole lot of cables.”

Currawong will allow connec-tion of some fifth-generation aircraft data systems into the ground net-work, with training to start on the system at the end of the year.

“We don’t have anything like this at the moment,” SQNLDR Henderson said.

“It’s another system they have to learn but they see the improve-ments. It’s a technological step up that will be well received.”

Signallers will be able to view and vary data speeds on a network and quickly troubleshoot problems.

The system can be rapidly scaled up or down by adding or removing common component modules, such as the Network Access Module.

Software and firmware upgrades are simplified to future-proof the system for new capabilities and equipment.

“You can throw a couple of these modules in the back of a G-Wagon and establish a basic satellite com-munications network, or scale it up to support 500 users on a network,” Mr Hutchinson said.

The systems will begin arriv-ing at Army’s 7th Brigade towards the end of the year and be used on Exercise Hamel 2018.

Feedback will be incorporated with additional capability for a sec-ond phase of the roll out in 2019.

Ms Sefton praised the high level of cooperation between Boeing Defence Australia, CASG, Air Force and Army.

“This level of constructive engagement is a model for how complex technology systems can be scoped and delivered in an acceler-ated time frame,” she said.

The battlespace will soon have all the connectivity of a modern office, CPL Max Bree writes

Welcome to the digital battlefield

FLGOFF John Perry (left) and SQNLDR Daryl Henderson examine new communications gear during a demonstration day at Damascus Barracks in Brisbane. Photos: CPL Max Bree

Personnel are shown a medium satellite

communication terminal during the demonstration day

at Damascus Barracks.

Communication and information systems

Feature RCEAIR F June 15, 201710

ONE of Air Force’s new kids on the block – the P-8A Poseidon – continues its fifth-generation evolution after RAAF aircrew

graduated from a prestigious training institute in the US.

Four RAAF P-8A Poseidon air-crew – FLTLTs Christopher Godfrey, Troy Murphy and Matthew Coombes, along with WOFF Ray Bailey –suc-cessfully graduated from the United States Navy (USN) Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School in Jacksonville, Florida on April 7.

OC 92 Wing GPCAPT Darren Goldie said he was proud of the most recent graduates’ achievements.

“This makes a total of eight 92WG graduates of the Weapons School Instructor program in recent years,” GPCAPT Goldie said.

“This is critical in maintaining the advanced warfighting skills necessary to ensure Air Force’s P-8A Poseidon will continue the proud maritime operational legacy carried by the AP-3C Orion for over the past 40 years.”

The course entailed seven weeks of gruelling instruction, including participa-tion in classified mission sets and flight profiles.

Four other 92WG aircrew graduated from the USN program last year.

FLTLT Johnathan Logan and WOFF Tony Stevenson were among the previous graduates and they performed instruc-tional roles on the course.

Air Combat Officer FLTLT Murphy jointly received the award for dux of the course in his crew position of Naval Flight Officer on the P-8A Poseidon.

“This is the first time this award has been given to a foreign student,” FLTLT Murphy said.

“The course concentrates on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), but includes learning outcomes in anti-surface warfare and maritime intelligence, surveillance, strike and reconnaissance.”

FLTLT Murphy said participating in the USN course was a great experience.

“The resources available to us on this course have been incredible,” FLTLT Murphy said.

“We have learnt from and integrated with the Weapons Schools and instruc-tors from all the USN assets.

“We also learnt from being briefed by top gun instructors and lessons from submariners.”

The weapons and tactics instructor (WTI) qualification is the highest tactical qualification available to aviators in the USN system.

“It is a highly sought after and demanding qualification,” FLTLT Murphy said.

“WTIs are the primary tactical advi-sors to squadron commanding officers and deployed commanders worldwide.

“It fulfils a role similar to that being implemented across Air Force by the Air Warfare Centre with the introduction of Air Warfare Instructors (AWIs).”

The course graduation was attended by visiting dignitaries and families of the four graduating crews and was addressed by the incoming Commander of CTF-72 (USN), CAPT Brian Erickson.

CTF-72 is based in Japan and leads patrol, reconnaissance and surveillance forces in support of USN’s Seventh Fleet. It is a key international partner for Air Force P-8A Poseidon and Triton opera-tions in East Asia and the Pacific.

“It is important for all players to maintain interoperability in the CTF-72 Area of Operations. This is why the RAAF aircraft will play a critical role in the coalition’s ability to react to immi-nent threats when the strategic situation necessitates,” CAPT Erickson said.

As a Plan Jericho outcome, AWIs will be weapon system experts with a core role in the integration of fifth generation Air Force capabilities. 92WG is commit-ted to the establishment of AWIs and will leverage the weapons school subject mat-ter when assisting the AWC with design-ing future AWI courseware.

FLTLT Logan, one of the course instructors, said the knowledge gained on the WTI course gave “a great insight into USN operations and how they integrate their force to achieve its objectives in the battlespace”.

“With a cadre of RAAF WTIs, we can bring this knowledge home and help integrate P-8A Poseidon seamlessly into both the ADF and with our USN part-ners.

“This is something we must do to become a cohesive fifth generation Air Force.”

92WG continues to participate in a wide array of domestic and international exercises as it transitions responsibility for Maritime Operations from the AP-3C Orion to the P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton.

Giving us the edgeUS training bolsters Poseidon’s growing warfighting capability, FLTLT Christopher Godfrey writes

International engagement

CO Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School CDR Kent Smith (USN), OC 92WG GPCAPT Darren Goldie, FLTLT Christopher Godfrey, WOFF Ray Bailey, FLTLT Troy Murphy, FLTLT Matthew Coombes, FLTLT Johnathan Logan and CO CTF72 CAPT Brian Erickson (USN).

A P-8A Poseidon during sea trials at the Gulf St Vincent off the coast of Adelaide. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

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11June 15, 2017RCEAIR F News

FLGOFF Lauren Langham

DAUNTLESS since 1937, No. 23 Squadron celebrated its 80th anniversary with a breakfast in the officers’ mess at RAAF Base Amberley on May 3.

About 80 current and previous members of the squadron enjoyed the break-fast, hosted by CO 23SQN WGCDR Karen Breaden.

C o m m a n d e r C o m b a t S u p p o r t G r o u p ( C S G ) AIRCDRE Ken Robinson also attended, along with 23SQN Association members Ron Purssey, Herb Snide and George Hatchman, and pre-vious 23SQN COs WGCDR Clive Wells and WGCDR Tony Blair.

The highlight was an address by Mr Hatchman, who outlined the complex and dis-tinguished history of 23SQN.

Mr Hatchman also present-ed WGCDR Breaden with a book on the squadron’s his-tory.

This book was given pride of place in the foyer of the squadron’s headquarters.

WGCDR Breaden said the anniversary was an opportu-nity for the squadron to reflect on its long and varied history.

“23SQN has had many dif-

ferent roles in the Air Force, and it’s important to look back on them as we move into the future, and into a role where we can support a fifth-genera-tion air force,” he said.

“As members of 23SQN, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved and look forward to how we can contribute to capability into the future.”

The ceremonial cake (dec-orated by LACW Sue-Ellen Harris, of 23SQN’s catering section) was cut by WGCDR Breaden and the squadron’s youngest member, AC Jordan Irvine (also from the catering section).

23SQN boasts a remark-able history, spanning recon-naissance, warfighting, com-bat operations and air power generation, both in Australia and overseas.

Originally a reserve squad-ron, it was transferred to CSG in 2010 and is now respon-sible for providing fixed-base support to RAAF Base Amberley, where it generates, delivers and sustains combat support to warfighters and first responders.

In addition to celebrating its 80th birthday this year, 23SQN was recognised as the most proficient unit in 2016, with the Hawker-Siddeley tro-phy taking pride of place in the headquarters.

Undaunted by turning 80

From left, CPL Alana Dowdle, AC Jared Cranswick and WOFF Chris Preston tuck into the celebration breakfast, including a ceremonial cake (right), for 23SQN. Photos: CPL Brenton Kwaterski

12 13RCEAIR FCentrepiece June 15, 2017

SGT Dave Morley

A CHANCE meeting of two brothers in London in 1943 led them to fly 30 missions together for the rest of WWII before returning home to

Western Australia unscathed.FLGOFF Murray Maxton (retd), 96, of

Albany, shared his story at the Australian War Memorial on June 2, during the 75th anniversary of Bomber Command’s first thousand bomber raids (May 31, 1942).

It was also a chance for him to return, albeit briefly, to the cockpit of the Memorial’s Lancaster bomber, G for George.

He joined the Empire Air Training Scheme in 1940, just after the war started, and was called up for permanent service on December 7, 1941.

FLGOFF Maxton earned his wings in Australia and was sent to Britain, where he initially flew Airspeed Oxfords and Wellingtons.

He said he went to Australia House to collect the mail one day and then went to The Strand to have a cup of coffee at a small cafe.

“You won’t believe this, but there was my brother Eric, and I didn’t even know he was in London,” he said.

“Eric told me he was going to Litchfield the next day and I said that’s where I was going as well, so we went and had too many beers at the Strand Palace Hotel.

“When we got back to No. 460 Squadron, they’d all had their crews sorted, except there was a navigator walking around looking for a crew. We accepted him and he turned out to be the best navigator you’d ever have. He was Frank Commins, from just down the road here at Yass.”

They flew Wellingtons and then Halifaxes, “which were a bit dicey because they were just about worn out by then”.

“Next, we went to Lancaster finishing school and then we went back to 460SQN, where GPCAPT Hughie Edwards VC from Fremantle was the station commander,” he said.

“Eric and I had a talk to him to see if he’d let us fly together. He was pretty sym-pathetic and said since we’d done all our training together and, if we didn’t tell our

mother, he’d let us do it. My brother flew with me all the time after that.

“Wherever I went in the air he was there with me and we got demobbed together on February 6, 1946.”

GPCAPT Edwards took FLGOFF Maxton and his brother on their first mission – a daylight raid to Caen at Normandy.

FLGOFF Maxton said the Army wanted to bomb some German Tiger tanks that were holding them up 500m to their front.

“So we bombed them and two days later the Army took the town and then broke out into open country,” he said.

“Then we did several raids on Le Havre and Bordeaux, where Hitler had his U-boats and oil refineries. These were eight-hour trips. So we went and blew up nine fuel tanks on the first raid and he wasn’t quite ready for us. But the second time round he gave us a bit of hurry up.”

After the Germans retreated from France at the end of 1944, 460SQN concentrated on the Ruhr Valley in Germany, where Hitler had armament factories, which were fed by a series of canals.

They were called on to bomb the canals, oil refineries and marshalling yards and, towards the end of the war, German cities.

“I wasn’t too happy about that. But, when I heard about how German Jews were get-ting gassed, I thought every day we could shorten the war by bombing the hell out of the Germans would be good,” FLGOFF Maxton said.

“One night over Dusseldorf, just after we’d dropped our bombs, a Messerschmitt 110 night fighter got us and blew out the insignia on the side of the Lanc and put our rear guns out of action.

“I sent my brother back to see if we were on fire. It was only a smell of cordite, we weren’t on fire – although Eric nearly got sucked out through the hole in the side.

“One night over Hamburg we lost 90 planes. That’s 630 blokes, although some might have finished up POWs.”

After the Germans capitulated FLGOFF Maxton and his brother were sent to the south of England to learn to fly Dakotas, before returning to Australia where they joined in the Pacific War.

BRAVO, THE BOMBER BOYS

MORE than 70 years on, FLGOFF Murray Maxton (retd) still knew where every-thing was in G for George’s cockpit.

He said being able to sit at the controls of G for George after so long was “goodo”.

“I flew G for George once – down to a place called Manson, an emergency aerodrome in the south of England – to pick up a crew and, on the way back, we

landed at Tibbenham to pick up some spare parts for No. 460 Squadron,” he said.

“The flight was three-and-a-half hours and that’s the one time I flew G for George.

“My Lanc was D for Dog. It was a brand new one – a MkIII, one of the latest mod-els. I got it in July 1944.

“The first D for Dog was shot out of the skies and all the crew were killed, so that didn’t cheer me up much.”

The memories of the battles they fought in the skies over Germany during WWII are still vivid for the airmen of Bomber Command, as they gathered to commemorate an important anniversary

From left, FLGOFF Tom Hopkinson (retd), Ray Walker and SQNLDR Angus Cameron (retd) caught up at the Bomber Command anniversary commemorations in Canberra from June 3 to 4. FLGOFF Hopkinson (retd) said all three had been mates for a long time and they really enjoyed the day.

“It was great catching up with the others, and the Australian War Memorial put on a great day for us.”

FLGOFF Lawrence Woods (retd) enlisted in the Air Force as an 18-year-old and served with No. 460 Squadron during Bomber Command.

“I was a trained observer and conducted 35 flights over Germany,” he said.

During a sortie over Germany, FLGOFF Woods had 10 minutes to learn how to fly a Lancaster to relive an injured pilot. For his actions, he was later awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

He said the commemoration was a “wonderful experience”.

“460SQN was the top squad-ron in Bomber Command, and Bomber Command was the greatest fighting force the world has ever known.”

History in the flesh

My brother, my crew mate

An F/A-18A Hornet from 77SQN conducts a fly-past of the Bomber

Command Memorial in Canberra during the 10th annual Bomber Command

Wreathlaying Ceremony. Photo: FSGT Mark Eaton

Words and photos: CPL Bill Solomou

FLGOFF Murray Maxton (retd) in the cockpit and the fuselage (inset) of the Lancaster bomber G for George at the Australian War Memorial.Photos: CPL Bill Solomou

‘One night over Hamburg we lost 90 planes. That’s 630 blokes.

FLGOFF Murray Maxton, 96 Bomber Command

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15June 15, 2017RCEAIR F News

Above: LAC Luke Highthorn, Lee Baddeley and Steve Woods during the engine swap at Williamson Airfield, Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

Left: Good teamwork led to the recovery of 38SQN’s King Air B300, which struck foreign object when landing.

SQNLDR Richard Curry

GREAT recovery skills and teamwork came to the fore after a 38SQN King Air B300 struck a foreign object on landing at Williamson Airfield in Queensland.

Aircraft A32-651 sustained considerable damage and needed substantial inspections, replacement of parts and certification to return to an airworthy state following the collision at the Shoal Water Bay Training Area.

It was unable to continue a planned flight to Townsville.

Neal Marks, of Hawker Pacific (HP), said great teamwork between 65SQN, 38SQN and Hawker Pacific was displayed during the recovery in early May.

“Communication, initiative and leadership skills shone and as a result a plaque was pre-sented to 65SQN at RAAF Base Townsville on May 24,” he said.

“The combined effort of 65SQN, 38SQN and HP brought an exceptional amount of resources and expertise together, which was needed to undertake the recovery in a difficult location, environment and time frame.”

The maintenance workforce within 38SQN is a contracted solution, provided by HP’s licensed aircraft maintenance engineers.

SQNLDR Dave Teagle, of 38SQN, said this recovery highlighted the roles teamwork, com-munication, leadership and initiative play to get the job done effectively and safely.

He said the damage to the aircraft required

the maintenance team to replace the propeller and engine in-situ at Williamson.

XO 38SQN SQNLDR Matt Plenty said although the repairs presented many logistical issues to address, it also presented an opportu-nity to extend the interaction and relationships between HP, 38SQN and the wider Air Force.

As a result, HP and 38SQN engaged the support of 65SQN to enable the aircraft recov-ery effort.

The recovery team consisted of two licensed aircraft technicians from HP, Lee Baddeley and Steve Woods, and two 65SQN members, CPL Voigt and LAC Luke Highthorn.

An additional benefit to WH&S manage-ment was realised by utilising the skilled 65SQN workforce and having them undertake the transportation of aircraft components as well as assist with crane operations to remove the aircraft engine.

Given the location and technical complexi-ties of the repair and recovery activities, risk assessments were performed to ensure all risks were eliminated or otherwise minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.

CO 38SQN WGCDR Michael Ward said this team effort had had a direct impact in min-imising the repair time and reducing the cost associated with recovering this aircraft.

“38SQN and HP look forward to strength-ening the King Air capability through greater interaction going forward; and are very appre-ciative of the support from 65SQN,” he said.

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16 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FNews

CPL Bill Solomou

IN its 70th year of operation the RAAF Welfare Trust Fund (RWTF) will farewell one of its longest serving staff members, Russ Thomson, who devoted many decades to the fund and Air Force.

Mr Thomson, who served 23 years with Air Force as a clerk, assumed the role as the fund secretary upon retiring from service. He will hand over the reins to Keith Pepper on June 26 after more than 21 years in the role.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies had the opportunity to personally thank Mr Thomson for his Air Force service and, in particular, as the RWTF secretary.

“You have done a fantastic job,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“In total you have achieved a mile-stone of nearly 45 years of service to Air Force.

“This is an achievement in itself.”Reflecting on his t ime as a

young officer posted to RAAF Base Edinburgh and to RAAF Base Amberley, AIRMSHL Davies recalled the importance of the fund.

“It really was a part of everyone’s life on a base, everyone knew about it,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“Everyone borrowed $1000 to do

the thing that was important to them – to make a car payment, take a holiday, whatever they needed.

“It still is an important part of what RAAFies need.”

On behalf of all Air Force person-nel AIRMSHL Davies presented Mr Thomson with a CAF coin.

“This is from the men and women of Air Force to you personally after 21.5 years as the secretary of the RWTF,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“Seventy years of the trust fund just doesn’t happen on its own.

“It happens because of dedicated, professional personnel like you.”

Mr Thomson said he was sad on leaving the fund, especially bidding farewell to his dedicated staff.

“It is great to have the fund in new hands,” he said.

“I have no doubt that Keith will do a great job.”

Mr Thomson is looking forward to his retirement. He will move to the warmer weather in Queensland with his wife, Jude, and their two adult chil-dren.

CAF AIRMSHL Davies wished Mr Thomson all the best in his retire-ment, especially on improving his golf handicap.

THE Royal Australian Air Force Welfare Trust Fund (RWTF) was established under the Services Trust Funds Act 1947 and is administered in the interests of serving and ex-serving Air Force members and their dependants.

The fund is managed by Canberra-based trustees who are supported by a network of regional representatives, usually Chaplains, located at each base.

The trust provides assistance to eligible persons by way of low-cost loans and grants. Loans are only available to serving RAAF members and to reserve mem-bers undergoing full-time duty. Grants are only made in excep-tional circumstances. Examples of loan types are: Home improvement Professional development Long service general

Group life insurance EmergencyThe fund also offers the Base

Welfare Grants Scheme, which provides funds to support the welfare and amenities available for Air Force personnel and their families. Examples include: Squadron family days Christmas treats

HOW THE WELFARE TRUST PROVIDES HELP

A matter of trust

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies, right, presents outgoing RAAF Welfare Trust Fund secretary

Russ Thomson with a Chief of Air Force coin in Canberra on June 1. Photo: CPL Bill Solomou

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Mia Read-Jones

IT’S NO secret that Raelene Hards was the heart of the mess at RAAF Base Glenbrook after dedicating 33 years to the heritage-listed former Lapstone Hill Hotel.

Mrs Hards, who kept the mess functioning and had built great friend-ships in the Air Force community since 1983, retired on her 70th birth-day on May 26 to focus on her family.

Although Mrs Hards worked long days and nights, she said it never felt like she was working and she was always surrounded by amazing people she considered to be family.

“It’s like a family here. With all the live-ins away from their families at home, I feel as if I am their surrogate mother,” she said.

“The people that I work with and see throughout the day were the reason I got up in the morning.”

Her role as mess manager deemed her responsible for the internal mainte-nance, hospitality, catering and coordi-nation of all mess events.

In her time at Glenbrook, Mrs Hards has seen 16 air commanders, organised up to four weddings a year, and managed about 40 mess balls.

At the newly appointed DCAF’s Farewell Dining In on May 8, DCAF AVM Gavin Turnbull presented Mrs Hards with a “Hards Suite” sign. VIP Suite number 4 at Glenbrook is now named in her honour.

This award is only normally avail-able to officers with two stars or more but, given her dedication and significant impact on the people of Glenbrook, AVM Turnbull said she more than deserved it.

“Raelene isn’t just part of the staff here; she is part of the Glenbrook fam-ily,” AVM Turnbull said.

“The appointment of Raelene as a life-long honorary member of the Glenbrook Officers’ Mess could not be more deserved and I am thrilled to be the one to present her with this great honour.”

Mrs Hards was surprised and over-whelmed by the honorary membership.

“I was gobsmacked to tell you the truth, being a civilian I never expected to receive that sort of recognition,” she said.

Mrs Hards has previously received a Silver Commendation for her achievements.

17June 15, 2017RCEAIR F Personnel

A suite farewell

DCAF AVM Gavin Turnbull presented Mrs Hards with a “Hards Suite” sign.

An online resource for ADF members and their families to fi nd information on their posting location.

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Faster, simpler serviceAC Brendan McHugh

MAKE-your-own pizza and parmi nights are among the new offerings at the renovated RAAF Base Wagga air-men’s mess.

The mess has undergone major improvements over the past few months, including better meal quality and more options on the menu.

A regular at the mess, Wagga trainee AC Samuel Croke, said the upgrades were warmly welcomed.

“I was quite surprised when I first walked through the doors. I wasn’t expecting such a change,” he said.

The layout has been updated to give the mess a casual cafe look, mak-ing the dining experience more pleas-ant for guests.

The updated layout features new tables and chairs, tasteful decorations and new wallpaper.

During the working week, attend-ance at the mess is compulsory for No. 1 Recruit Training Unit trainees, but many also turn up on weekends, espe-cially since the transformation.

The airmen’s mess employs a team of professional cooks, including one apprentice. On any weekday, they pro-duce up to 1200 meals.

Due to the sheer volume, the meals need to be simple and budget-friendly but the cooks make a concerted effort to keep them varied and balanced.

Thanks to a new belt-style grill, the mess now hosts make-your-own pizza, parmigiana and burrito nights.

18 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FPersonnel

A tasteful upgrade1RTU trainees enjoy the

ambience of the refurbished airmen’s mess at RAAF

Base Wagga.Photo: SGT Michael Formosa

One human resource management and payroll system for One DefenceDefence One

Are you Ready... Defence One is the new pay system for Defence that will mean that APS, Reserves and ADF members are all on the same HR & payroll system. The integration of HR and payroll data is a key element of the new system, and allows many allowances (both eligibility and payment rates) to be automated based on information from PMKeyS and inbound interface data from external parties.

Defence One will Go Live 7th August 2017!

How can you prepare? Take early action!

Self Service will be unavailable for approximately 10 days during the implementation of Defence One R1a. Members are to log into PMKeyS Self Service and ensure the following details are correct:

» Rank (ESS > My ADF Pay > Payslips ADF)

» Contact details (ESS > My Personal Details > Personal Data)

» Emergency contact details and next of kin (ESS > My Personal Details > Emergency Contacts)

» Dependant details (ESS > My Personal Details > Dependant/Beneficiary)

» Categorisation (ESS > My ADF Pay > Payslips ADF)

» Position details including location (ESS > My Personal Details > Personal Information Summary)

» Allowances (ESS > My ADF Pay > Payslips ADF)

» Leave data – including absence entitlement, outstanding absence applications and denied absence applications (ESS > My Leave)

Remember: You are responsible for your pay, allowances and deductions

For further information on Defence One visit: Defence Home > Groups > CIOG > For CIOG Staff > CIOG Initiatives > Defence One

Please visit the Defence One Website regularly for further information and updates.

For Further information visit: Defence Home > Groups > CIOG > For CIOG Staff > CIOG Initiatives > Defence One

DPS:APR028-17

Tammy Meacham

DEFENCE One, the new pay system for ADF members, is scheduled to go live on August 7.

The new system will provide increased self-service functionality and automated payments.

To ensure that the cut-over to the new system is smooth and that payments are made in a timely manner, all data in the system must be as up to date as possible before cut-over begins on July 27.

Director General Personnel – Air Force, AIRCDRE Henrik Ehlers, said it was important Air Force members main-tained accurate personal information in both PMKeyS and Defence One.

“Air Force members, including reserve members, are responsible for ensuring their details are correct to accu-rately reflect their personal circumstanc-es,” AIRCDRE Ehlers said.

“Delaying the implementation of

Defence One, due to incorrect or outdat-ed personal information, is not an option.

“The new system will deliver greater automation of pay and benefits.”

Commanders and managers need to ensure all members under their com-mand are informed of their responsi-bilities and process/approve all update requests.

D i r e c t o r H u m a n R e s o u r c e s Information Systems – Air Force, GPCAPT Wayne Knight, said there was a team working on remediating errors.

“In a lot of cases these are prevent-able and recurring, for example, delaying applying for retrospective skill and pay regrades until well after you are eligible, is preventable,” GPCAPT Knight said.

Air Force members are required to complete a Pre-Go Live Checklist no later than July 14.

See the checklist at: http://ciogintranet/staff/initiatives/DefenceOne/Pages/Resources.aspx

Above and beyondFLTLT Nick O’Connor

SUPPORTIVE employers from across Australia were recognised at the Defence Reserves Support Council National Employer Support Awards at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on May 25.

Held annually, the awards night rec-ognises employers who go above and beyond to support their ADF reservist employees.

Defence Personnel Minister Dan Tehan outlined the importance of the awards during his keynote speech.

“This event highlights two things – first, the significant contribution of our reserve personnel to ADF capability and, second, the critical support provided to our reservists by their civilian employ-ers,” Mr Tehan said.

“Reservists contribute to ADF capa-bility in many ways – locally, nationally and internationally.

“The men and women of our reserves are currently serving on operations in the Middle East and around the world, and have served in previous operations in Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste.

“For employers, accommodating

reservist employees is not always easy – sometimes, considerable effort and sacri-fice is required to release them for train-ing and deployment commitments.”

He said the employers who did this were also serving the nation.

Defence Reserves Support Council National Chair Jane McAloon highlight-ed the raft of skills reservists brought to a civilian work environment.

“The employers and reservists we are acknowledging understand what it truly means to have a shared workforce,” Ms McAloon said.

“Both active and stand-by reservists bring essential and different skills and experience from civilian employment that build and expand the capability of the ADF.

“In return these same reservists bring to their civilian employment mili-tary discipline, problem solving skills, teamwork, leadership and, importantly, a sense of national contribution and iden-tity.”

For more information, www.defencereserves-support.gov.au

Rachel Bowman

THE Partner Employment Assistance Program starts on July 1 and aims to help eligible ADF partners find jobs when posting to a new location.

Within 12 months of posting to a new location, recognised partners can apply for funding of up to $1500 to assist with the immediate difficulties of finding employment.

Director General Defence Community Organisation Paul Way said the program could not guarantee employment, but it did provide ADF partners with professional advice and skills to give them the best opportunity to find employment in their new posting locality.

“Each time they post to a new loca-tion, partners can apply for employment-related support services such as resume preparation, job search and job interview techniques, as well as job placement advice,” he said.

“The program can also be used for

fees involved in mandatory professional re-registration costs when moving from one state or territory to another.”

To be eligible for the program, part-ners need to be recognised by Defence and posting with their ADF partner to a new area, making it an easily accessible program for most families.

Applications can be made following receipt of a posting order or within 12 months after the order’s effective date.

Funding may attract Fringe Benefits Tax for the ADF member. It is recom-mended that personnel seek independent financial advice about how this may affect tax and benefits, to determine whether these options are financially advantageous before committing to the program.

Visit www.defence.gov.au/dco/family/partners to view the guidelines and application form. Members and their partners can also contact the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au

Helping out families

Want pay? Accuracy counts

19June 15, 2017RCEAIR F Personnel

Small Business: Hackham Medical CentreMedium Business: Executive Risk SolutionsLarge Business: Commonwealth BankPublic Sector: City of Ballarat Not-For-Profit: Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education

WINNERS

Defence Reserves Support Council National Chair

Jane McAloon at the Defence Reserves Support Council Employer Support

Awards night held at the Australian War Memorial.

Photo: Jay Cronan

ANY MORE LIKE FAMILY AND WE’D IRON YOUR CREASES.

At Defence Health, we’re all about taking care of those in the fold. That’s why we o� er tailored health cover with higher benefi ts exclusively for ADF families. Our ADF Total Package gives you our best value protection with comprehensive hospital cover and access to an extensive range of extras treatments with generous annual limits.

Join the family. Call 1800 335 425 or visit defencehealth.com.au

20 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FFlightline

Who’s leaving after 20+ yearsDEPARTURE LOUNGE

Name Must/Spec Last day Years

WOFF Glenn Everson AVTECH May 11 40

FSGT Leigh Lockett ATECH May 20 40

SQNLDR Alan Vincent AERO May 1 38

WOFF Gary Slater ATECH May 3 30

WOFF Georg Ockinga AVTECH May 8 30

FSGT David Buschmann CETECH May 28 30

SGT Brett Sherriff AFIS May 7 29

FSGT John Turner ALSFITT May 14 29

FLTLT Kevin Barnes PCO May 28 28

SGT Jason Martin GSEFITT Apr 30 21

WOFF Gregory Tafe AIA May 14 21

SGT Cameron Keding ALSFITT May 21 21

SQNLDR Dale Wiley ELECTR May 16 20

SQNLDR Rachel Pyle INTEL May 22 20

LAC Alexander Dagger, of No. 3 Control and

Reporting Unit, in front of the Tactical Air Defence Radar

System during Exercise Diamond Spear in northern

NSW.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

21June 15, 2017RCEAIR F Flightline

Look forward

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info@hamel.edu.au Qualifications Assessed by Hamel Institute RTO 32399 and … 

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Left: SGT David Edwards, of ADF Joint Interface Control Cell, uses voice and computer systems during Exercise Diamond Spear.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

SGT Anthony Woods explains the contents of a ration pack to the

participants of the Female Technical Camp at RAAF Base Wagga.

Photo: CPL Dan Pinhorn

LAC Michelle Boughey introduces participants in the Indigenous Youth Program to drill at RAAF Base Townsville.

Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

Right: SQNLDR Sharron Kinloch, of Defence Community Organisation, with LAC Andrew

Ryan, his wife Rebecca and son Angus during a National Families

Week activity at Questacon in Canberra.

Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

Posting soon or just posted to a new location?Is your partner looking for work?Help is available.The Partner Employment Assistance Program starts 1 July 2017.

In each posting location, partners of ADF members can apply for up to $1,500funding to contribute towards employment related initiatives such as resumepreparation, job search and job interview techniques, as well as job placementadvice. It also can assist with professional re-registration costs when moving fromone state or territory to another.

AustralianGovernmentDepartment of Defence

Want more information?Visit www.defence.gov.au/dco, Call 1800 624 608or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au

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22 June 15, 2017RCEAIR FHealth & Fitness

MOST of us would have com-pleted a strenuous PT session with an enthusiastic physical training instructor or compet-

ed in an arduous event in our own time, and pulled up sore and stiff the next day.

Other than being mega-fit, you can use a number of easy methods to mini-mise the pain.

Army PTI CPL Jeff Langdon said a proper recovery routine was as important as the exercise itself.

“Recovery allows the body to go through its healing processes, since when we train we stimulate the body, tear muscle tissue, we stress our cardio-vascular system, tendons and skeletal system, and can cause inflammation in joints,” he said.

Stretching and using foam rollers are simple methods of preventing soreness.

“A cool-down and in-depth stretching session, and the use of a foam roller at the completion of any training session are vital to assist with the recovery pro-cess,” CPL Langdon said.

“Stretching and foam rollers help dissipate and flush out the by-products, such as lactic acid, in our muscle tissues and they reduce the feeling of fatigue.

“Stretching lengthens the muscles, makes them stronger and allows them to increase their ability to contract.”

Drinking a protein powder or sports drink, staying hydrated after exercise, avoiding large amounts of caffeine and eating healthy food are other simple recovery methods.

“[Drinks] replace essential amino acids and salt, which are lost through sweat and urine during exercise and throughout the day,” CPL Langdon said.

“These supplements are easily ingested but, unless users stick to their training program and have a healthy diet, any gains they might receive from sup-plements could be minimal.

“It’s also important to remain hydrat-ed or you will begin to feel tired and lethargic and your motivation to go out and exercise again will diminish.

“A good indicator of being adequate-ly hydrated is checking throughout the day that your urine is a clear colour.”

CPL Langdon said ice packs, ice baths, running in water and swimming are often under-utilised ways of reducing aches and pains after exercise.

“The water creates external pressure around the joints, reducing inflamma-tion. Adding a running or swimming activity in the water introduces a low-impact cardio element to the recovery session,” he said.

Simple and portable devices for pro-viding relief are also available.

“Latex, thick bands or floss bands can be placed on a limb to restrict the blood flow to muscles. They work the same way ice does. After the bands are released from the limb, the blood flows back into the muscle, flushing out the acidic by-products,” CPL Langdon said.

“Another innovation is a trigger-point ball, which is the size of between a golf and a hockey ball, is smooth or has soft spikes and is used in the same way as a foam roller.

“It can provide targeted muscle relief when you roll it onto specific areas such as pectoral muscles and the neck.”

A rest day at least once a week is also important.

“Often people overtrain and, for example, if you were to wake up in the morning and notice your resting heart rate is a few beats higher than normal, this would be an indicator your car-diovascular system needs more time to recover,” CPL Langdon said.

“You should listen to your body. When it is not performing at its normal level it’s a sign you are overdoing it.”

If exercise is a sore point, recovery is the answer, WO2 Andrew Hetherington writes

Stretch using traditional stretching techniques.

Use a foam roller or a trigger-point ball to pro-vide relief to muscles.

Rehydrate and maintain hydration throughout the day, by drinking wa-ter and recovery drinks containing essential amino acids and salts.

Steer clear of drinks containing caffeine. If you do drink one cup of coffee, tea or a caf-feinated energy drink, follow it up with the equivalent volume in water.

Exercise in water at a beach or pool.

Take an ice bath or use ice on a specific area to reduce inflammation.

Try to avoid overdoing it – mix up your train-ing schedule, avoid consecutive intensive exercise sessions and build a rest day into your week.

If you need advice on your training and recov-ery program see your local PTI.

How to gain with no pain

STRETCHING YOURSELF

A proper recovery routine can minimise the soreness

after exercise. Photo: WO2 Andrew Hetherington

23June 15, 2017RCEAIR F Sp rt

FLTLT Bettina Mears

RE-CREATING history, 81 Wing Combined Workshops and No. 381 Squadron personnel fought out a hotly contested Australian rules game at RAAF Base Williamtown on May 18.

The event, known as the Bofu Cup, marked the 71st anni-versary of the original game between 381SQN and No. 481 (Maintenance) Squadron (now 81WG CWKS) in Bofu, Japan, immediately after WWII.

No. 26 Squadron also took part in the rematch this year by joining forces with 381SQN.

The Bofu Cup was introduced as an annual event last year, aiming to promote teamwork and esprit de corps.

T/CO 81WG CWKS SQNLDR Michelle Oakden said the game “has become a significant event in our unit calendar”.

“It provides the opportunity for personnel to take time out of the operational tempo and come together to acknowledge this moment in Air Force history – remembering those that have come before us and as an opportunity to celebrate the enduring spirit of mateship,” she said.

While historical reflection was the order of the day, the start of the game set in motion some friendly but competitive banter between the two squadrons.

The scene was set for a thrilling game in front of an enthusiastic gathering of supporters.

81WG CWKS took the honours

67-42, but the win was not without controversy however.

WOFF Colin Thacker was the winning coach this year for 81WG CWKS, which is his posted unit. However, it was jokingly suggest-ed he “jumped ship” in search of a second win after leading 381SQN to victory last year.

Both team coaches applauded the players on their performanc-es, noting the game was evenly matched given most of the partici-pants were playing in their first Aussie rules game.

81WG CWKS player CPL Steve Winter was voted best-on-ground.

The Bofu Cup game also raised $1010 for the veterans charity Soldier On.

CPL Bill Solomou

FLTLT Carrie Fettes has once again been selected in the Australian Country team after finishing among the top seven female players –known as the “Tournament Seven” – at the Australian Country Water Polo Championships in Hobart, from May 17 to 20.

FLTLT Carrie Fettes will represent the ADF in the national country team for the ninth time when she plays in the 2017 Princess Chulabhorn Water Polo Cup in Thailand in November.

“This is a big honour for me

as there were some amazing water polo players in the com-petition,” she said.

“I feel very privileged to be selected to play with some fan-tastic players.

“This year, the team will be coached by dual Olympian and Olympic gold medallist Jo Clark, which is very exciting, and we hope to retain the cup we won last year.”

The ADF women’s and men’s teams made a splash at the national championships.

The women’s team played off for the bronze medal against Victoria, while the men finished in sixth place.

The women trailed 5-2 at half time, but the players lev-elled the scores at three-quarter time and took the lead in the final quarter to win 10-9.

Tournament organiser and men’s coach LEUT Jason Battley said Army’s Kate Bertwistle stood out in the final, scoring seven of the 10 goals.

LEUT Battley said the men’s team was improving inexperienced players.

“We are in the developing stage. It was a great opportu-nity to give them the exposure against highly competitive teams,” he said.

WO2 Martin Fisher and SGT Dave Morley

SOME of the ADF’s best surfers defeated British Army and Royal Air Force (RAF) surfing teams at the inaugural International Surf Festival from May 1-15.

The ADF, with LACs Luke Adams, Robert Kohler and Joshua Poate, and ACW Mandy Leong featuring among the top performers, took home the trophy after notching up the highest overall points tally and firsts in every individual event and the teams category,

The ADF Surf Riders

Association (ADFSRA) hosted the event, involving 26 Australian and 45 British com-petitors, on the NSW South Coast.

ADFSRA president MAJ Myles Conquest said the festi-val consisted of an orientation week for the international par-ticipants, followed by competi-tion in shortboard, longboard, body board, men’s, women’s and team events.

“After an orientation week, travelling to well-known surf locations along the NSW coast, the British visitors familiarised themselves with Australia’s surf conditions and participated in cross training

delivered by other experience Australian competitors,” he said.

He said the surfers “dis-played extreme courage in six-foot surf, fighting against strong currents and challeng-ing waves”.

With four-time (1979-82) Australian world cham-pion surfer Mark Richards in attendance, and a cliff-top audience watching on for the final day of competition, the pressure was on at Supertubes on NSW’s South Coast.

MAJ Conquest said with a stellar day and 6ft waves, even the dolphins came out to play in the competition area.

LEUT Ben Willee

A SMALL group o f ADF Indigenous Aussie Rules play-ers participated in indigenous community activities during the AFL Sir Douglas Nicholls Dreamtime round in Melbourne in late May.

The ADF Australian Rules Football (ADFAR) Indigenous development program promotes personal development and diversity in Defence and as a recruitment tool.

The activities included work-ing with KPMG Indigenous rec-onciliation partners, Defence’s

Directorate of Indigenous Affairs, AFL Victoria and the Richmond Football Club.

The ADF players took part in The Long Walk at the MCG and watched the Dreamtime game between Richmond and Essendon.

LAC Luke Reeves, of No. 65 Squadron, addressed indig-enous elders, and the members and support staff of the Fitzroy Stars, about his experience as an indigenous person serving in the Air Force and the opportuni-ties service has given him.

The Fitzroy Stars club is based in the indigenous com-

munity of Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs.

“It’s been great to play footy and celebrate my culture. I’m looking forward to getting involved in future activities and matches,” LAC Reeves said.

ADFAR Chairman MAJGEN Matthew Hall said the plan was to expand the program, includ-ing establishing a women’s Indigenous football program similar to the men’s and con-ducting a mentoring program for young Indigenous women.

For more information on ADF Aussie Rules visit www.adfar.org

Friendly rivals revive history

Engaging in rules of reconciliation

Rep honours give gilt edge to bronze finish

Swell time for ADF surfers

LAC Joshua Poate carves up the

waves during the International Surf

Festival.Photo: Jacqueline Llanos

The ADF women’s water polo team celebrates its

performance at the Australian Country Championships.

81WG CWKS captain CPL Chris Scott

holds aloft the BOFU Cup at RAAF Base

Williamtown.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

© Image courtesy of Department of Defence

Assisting serving and ex-servingADF members and their familiesin times of injury, illnessand crisis.

rsldefencecare.org.au

SP RTJune 15, 2017

FIELD OF FRIENDS

Bofu Cup carries on a

footy traditionPage 23

SGT Aaron Clayden, of 26SQN (playing for 381SQN), clears the ball

away from CPL Ryan Lochhead, of 81WG CWKS, during the

annual Australian rules “friendly” commemorating the game between

381SQN and 481SQN at Bofu, Japan, after WWII.

Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman