Citation preview
NEWSNAVY Volume 64, No. 2, February 18, 2021
HOME FOR REGATTA
Up and running: Sailor’s amazing recovery - Page 3
HMAS Hobart's crew at Procedure Alpha on the upper decks, as she is
fallen into her namesake city for the Regatta.
Pages 2-3
LEUT Sarah Rohweder
MORE than 260 ADF personnel pro- vided support in the 183rd Royal
Hobart Regatta, one of Tasmania's largest annual events.
The Regatta was held from February 6-8 and the show of sup- port
strengthened the ADF's ties with
the state. Navy sailed guided mis- sile destroyer HMAS Hobart to
her namesake city to act as a backdrop to the event, the RAAF
Roulettes per- formed three aerobatic displays, a P8-A Poseidon
conducted flypasts, and Navy and Army bands performed.
Navy Headquarters - Tasmania (NHQ-Tasmania) CO CMDR Andrew
Wright said spectators were receptive to Defence personnel and the
organisa- tion's contribution to the regatta.
“The NHQ-Tasmania team provid- ed personnel to support the Defence
Force Recruiting stand, Navy com- munity engagement, as well as
other aspects of the Regatta,” CMDR Wright said.
“Despite COVID-19, we are pleased with the number of partici- pants
in all Regatta events.”
“We had to adjust the way we did things with crowd restrictions,
but I think we had a great mix of partici- pation in events and
support for this year's Regatta.”
Royal Hobart Regatta Association
President David Skegg said even with restrictions, the Regatta was
a success.
“We had to make some changes, like putting up a lot of extra
fencing, but it has all worked out pretty well,” Mr Skegg
said
“There were so many sails on the water. It was fantastic.”
2 News February 18, 2021
Keeping with
Band – Tasmania performs
during the Royal
Hobart Regatta.
HMAS Hobart's XO LCDR Michael Rhy- Jones waves to the crowd as a
RAAF P8-A Poseidon conducts a fly past over the River Derwent
during the 183rd Royal Hobart Regatta.
WO2 Max Bree
THE first synth notes of Europe’s 1986 hit The Final Countdown
reso- nated over the River Derwent as the RAN Band Tasmania kicked
off their performance at the Royal Hobart Regatta.
AB Nikayla Taskinen-Smith belted out the opening verse at the front
of the stage.
A singer from age eight, she joined the band two years ago,
successfully auditioning after friends tagged her in a Facebook
post about the job.
Inspired early on by ’60s pop sing- er Dusty Springfield, she later
turned to modern artists.
“Being like Adele without the heartbreak would be great, her voice
is incredible. If I were going to aim for anything it would be her
or Christina Aguilera,” AB Taskinen-Smith said.
The band has about 80 songs – many Australian – to pick from for a
show gig.
The group can split off to provide various chamber ensembles, such
as a brass quartet, jazz trio and piano and flute duet.
They can also form a drum and bugle corps, but they mainly play as
a rock group, to the surprise of some audience members, according
to band- master CPO Martyn Hancock.
“Often people come up and say how excited they are, as they had
been expecting traditional military marches,
but then we start up with something like AC/DC,” CPO Hancock
said.
Eleven reserves and two full-time sailors make up the band that is
now returning to live gigs after COVID- imposed restrictions.
Last year, the band turned to recording music and making videos
spearheaded by LS Dorian Broomhall, who is a trumpet player, video
editor and manages the public relations for the band.
The band formed a classical choir for an Anzac Day video, singing a
goosebumps-inducing song based on the poem In Flanders
Fields.
They later recorded a contempo- rary arrangement of the naval hymn
Eternal Father and recorded a video at Government House to mark the
inves- titure of Teddy Sheean’s VC.
Despite the popularity of those vid- eos, LS Broomhall was always
looking to improve presentation and editing.
“We don’t want it to be just a song with the guys playing on video.
There’s so many of those online. I try and look at what we can do
to take that to the next level and make it useful,” LS Broomhall
said.
LS Broomhall first picked up the trumpet in year seven, and was
inspired by the Army band coming to his school in year 10, but a
teacher steered him towards later joining the Navy band.
He went on to play with some of his musical heroes from the
Cat
Empire, individually at various events. A return to the stage after
almost
a year off revitalised LS Broomhall’s passion for performing.
“I realised I’ve spent a lot of time behind this piece of metal and
there’s a reason I really enjoy playing,” LS Broomhall said.
“You see smiles in the crowd and realise just because you’ve played
this song 100 times, some of these kids
have never seen a live band before.” CPO Hancock said the
band
formed in 1989, primarily as a concert band and wind
ensemble.
He said the transition to rock music was driven in part by changing
demo- graphics of new musicians interested in modern music.
“We’re always on the lookout for new recruits in order to expand
the capability of the band, although I
would never want to change our pri- mary ensemble,” CPO Hancock
said.
“Having more sailors in the band would help our parade capability
for ceremonial work, such as ship visits and freedom-of
entry-parades.”
“The unique primary product we have here in Tasmania is very
refined and proves to be extremely successful.”
Do you want a PHAT Tax Return?
• Investment properties • Members who have served overseas • Late
lodgement of tax returns • Members who have been medically
discharged
Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a
great tax return every year
Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone,
so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment
We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities,
including:
DEFENCE FORCE TAX SPECIALISTS
SBLT Nancy Cotton
TO the delight of his previous Personnel Support Unit Divisional
Officer, CPO Matthew Jarvis, ABBM Cooper Blackwood recently walked
into HMAS Moreton.
Accompanied by his parents, Karen and Darren Blackwood, being able
to make the visit out of his wheel- chair and on his feet was no
small feat after what he had been through.
AB Blackwood’s life changed in an instant last year while on
holiday in Bali during the reduced activity period.
It is incongruous that a former life- guard and competitive swimmer
would sustain a paralysing injury from diving into a swimming pool,
but that’s what happened.
AB Blackwood said that after div- ing in, he remembers feeling a
strange sensation of ‘vibrations’ and a ‘tin- gling’ from his chest
down.
Paralysed with minimal movement in his arms, he managed to surface
to take a breath and call for help.
The fast-thinking action of his friends keeping his head and body
sta- ble and their constant words of support kept him focused
during the hour-long
wait for the ambulance. The nature of the injury – a cervical
fracture dislo- cating C5-C6 – required immediate surgery to fuse
them.
He also had a plate and four screws placed in the front of his
spine, two rods and a further four screws inserted in the back, a
wedge to replace a rup- tured disc and the interspinous liga- ment
also required suturing.
The enormity of the accident hit home when he woke from surgery to
find a tube helping him to breath.
The ADF worked quickly to have his parents flown out to be by their
son’s side.
The next hurdle was getting AB Blackwood and his family back to
Australia.
With major bushfires at home, it was not an easy task.
With the assistance of Air Ambulance Australasia, they were flown
to the Princess Alexandra Hospital’s spinal unit in Brisbane to
begin the recovery process.
AB Blackwood said the whole situation is something he had never
thought about.
“I had no idea what life with no movement would entail,” AB
ABBM Cooper Blackwood with girlfriend AB Sarah Horn, far left, and
at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Spinal Unit, left, in
2020.
NewsFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 3
Walking proof of resilience
– ABBM Cooper Blackwood
I couldn’t move. I couldn’t brush my teeth, or go to the toilet, I
needed help with absolutely everything. “
Blackwood said. “My mum moved down from Rockhampton and was here
with me every day and had to learn how to use the hoist to be able
to lift me.
“I couldn’t move. I couldn’t brush my teeth, or go to the toilet, I
needed help with absolutely everything.
“When I finally gained use of my arms I got an electric toothbrush
and could use it with both hands.
“Water had to be squirted in my mouth with a tube and then sucked
out, as I couldn’t just simply roll my head over to spit the water
out. I just didn’t realise any of this.”
When he was able to go outside in his wheelchair to get some
sunshine he said it was a painful process.
“It was nice to get out but my head
felt so heavy and the pain from my surgery meant I could only do 30
min- utes at a time,” AB Blackwood said.
Intensive physiotherapy was a daily routine for AB Blackwood and it
took a month before seeing an encouraging wobble in his knee.
He believes he wouldn’t be where he is now without all the support
he received.
“The help I have had throughout has been amazing and things I
didn’t even know were available, such as Keeping Watch [the Navy
charity] and the mental health support available for all of us,” he
said.
“Even just things like paperwork. CPO Jarvis took care of
everything for me, he wanted me to just focus on my recovery and I
was able to do that with
his support. “My recovery would not be where it was now if it
wasn’t for all of this.”
AB Blackwood’s parents said the support from the ADF and Navy had
been brilliant.
“I am so grateful Cooper had the foresight to get holiday
insurance, otherwise this could look very dif- ferent financially
for our family,” Mr Blackwood said.
The saying “you have to learn to walk before you can run” is
something AB Blackwood knows all too well. After one focused step
at a time, he is now running again.
“You can’t dwell on the past, it will get you down in the dumps and
you won’t get progress from that,” AB Blackwood said.
“I just keep looking ahead and what is the best outcome for the
rest of my life.
“I am at the gym most days and still doing rehab. I still have
people I don’t know reaching out to me and encouraging me; it’s
great.
“I am very lucky, being in the spi- nal unit at the Princess
Alexandra; you see a lot and it has made me realise how lucky I
am.”
AB Matthew Samson
DEFENCE Force School of Signals – Maritime Communication and
Information Systems Wing students have rolled up their sleeves to
help Victorian veterans with their gar- dening and yard
duties.
After a call to Australian vet- erans’ charity Legacy, 20 inter-
mediate course students based at HMAS Cerberus volunteered to help
tidy gardens across Frankston, Mornington, Chelsea Heights and
Patterson Lakes in Melbourne.
They mowed lawns, helped with weeding and pruning and conduct- ed
general cleaning.
LS Danniel Martin said it was great to meet and help veterans
who
were unable to tend to their gardens because of disability or
age.
“After such an isolating year for many people in the community,
especially for our veterans, and with our course slightly delayed
due to COVID-19, what better way for us to use this time than by
get- ting out there and providing manual assistance to those who
have sac- rificed and given so much in the past,” LS Martin
said.
“It was definitely a fulfilling and enjoyable day and something I
look forward to doing more often in the future.”
Liz Barr, a widow connected with the Mornington branch of Legacy,
said she the help was great- ly appreciated.
“At my age it can be quite dif- ficult to keep up with the
gardening and the general upkeep of my front and backyard, so it
was a pleasant surprise when these sailors turned up and offered
their assistance. I was so grateful for all they did for me,” Mrs
Barr said.
“They spent the entire day here and cleaned up my yard and it is
lovely knowing there are still peo- ple out there that care.”
Legacy is a charity founded in 1923 and supports 48,000 veterans,
partners and their children who have given their lives or health
serving Australia.
For more information, or to donate to the work of Legacy, visit:
legacy.com.au
Practical help for those who served
School of Signals – Maritime Communication and Information Systems
Wing students, rolled up their sleeves to provide gardening and
yard assistance to veterans in Victoria.
NUSHIP’S crew comes together
NUSHIP Stalwart's crew forms for the first time on the sports field
of HMAS
Stirling, Western Australia. Photo: LSIS Richard Cordell
NUSHIP Stalwart’s crew celebrated their formation, marking the
occasion by donning their ship’s caps and badg- es and hosting a
barbeque for families of the ships’ company.
Stalwart is the second and final Supply-class auxiliary oiler
replenish- ment ship.
After commencing construction in Spain in August 2019, Starlwart
will enter service later this year.
CMDR Steve McCracken said it was a privilege to wear the Stalwart
hat and patch, visibly identifying as
members of Stalwart – the newest ship in the Navy.
“Coming together as a team, we sew the seed, the acorn, for the
ship’s company of Stalwart III and a positive team culture, with
strength of char- acter, growth and development at our core,” CMDR
McCracken said.
“We are the first to wear the name of Stalwart after nearly 30
years since HMAS Stalwart II decommissioned on March 9, 1990.
“It is our collective duty to honour the name and each other,
living and
working by the motto ‘heart of oak’.” “While we are individuals,
today
we come together as a special team. We have the skills, knowledge
and experience to achieve great things.
As a team we will succeed and write another chapter in the history
of the name Stalwart.
As Stalwart’s crew formed for the first time, the excitement of
commis- sioning a ship was hard to contain.
AB Kirsten Roberts said it was her first sea posting and she could
not believe how lucky she was to be
part of a commissioning crew. “The crew already seems like they’ve
been together for a long time,” AB Roberts said.
“Everyone is so friendly and welcoming.”
Over the coming months, the ship’s company will undertake extensive
culture development and training to prepare for the arrival of
Stalwart in Australia.
LSMT Joshua Perham said the bar- beque was a great opportunity for
his young family to meet other crew mem-
bers and it really set the standard for what he felt would be a
really family orientated crew.
“The crew formation was a historic day for all of us” LS Perham
said.
“I am excited to be part of the Navy’s newest capability,The ship
will carry fuel, dry cargo, water, food, ammunition, equipment, and
spare parts to provide operational support for the deployed forces
operating away from homeports for extended periods.
4 News February 18, 2021
Find out how much you could save with a novated car lease.
1300 115 947 | navyleasing.com.au
Quoted prices include: Finance Rego CTP Fuel Maintenance
Insurance
Request a quote on a car you love to see how much you could
save!
Looking for a different car?
$ 422* PER FORTNIGHT INC. $153 OF RUNNING COSTS
Volkswagen T-Roc Style save
$1,207 on purchase price†
Mazda CX30 G20 Pure
save $1,355
Mitsubishi Outlander ES
$ 396* PER FORTNIGHT
save $3,727
save $4,452
on purchase price†
†Savings figures are based on Smartleasing’s negotiated buying
power discount. Discount has been calculated with reference to the
manufactures recommended retail price current as at 1 January 2021
in NSW. Discount will differ depending on the State or Territory
you purchase the vehicle in.
*Based on the following assumptions: living in NSW 2560, salary:
$70,000 gross p.a., travelling 15,000 kms p.a., lease term: 60
months, using the Employee Contribution Method for FBT purposes.
Images shown may not be the exact car that the calculations have
been based on. All figures quoted include budgets for finance,
fuel, servicing, tyres, maintenance, Vero by Suncorp comprehensive
motor insurance, Hydro Platinum Pack and re-registration over the
period of the lease. Also includes, for Suzuki, Audi and BMW models
only, 2 year Platinum Warranty insurance. Vehicle residual, as set
by Australian Taxation Office, payable at the end of lease term.
The exact residual amount will be specified in your vehicle quote.
Vehicle pricing is correct at the time of distribution but may be
subject to change based on availability.
SAVE THOUSANDS on your New Year’s resolutions
Smartleasing ad_NAVY_Car Cat Promo_Jan 2021.indd 1Smartleasing
ad_NAVY_Car Cat Promo_Jan 2021.indd 1 22/01/2021 2:57:36
PM22/01/2021 2:57:36 PM
A part of BrandNet navyshop.com.au/medals
Are Your Medals Ready For ANZAC DAY?
Your medals are GUARANTEED for Anzac Day delivery if you order
before 1 MARCH 2021.
Get your Navy or Vietnam engraved solid jarrah
medal case for 30% off when you spend
$100 or more on medals.
Use promo code: JARRAHMEDAL at the checkout.
02 6123 2933
Navy’s newest arrival
Lighting up the future
HMAS Cerberus’ Robotics Club has built a drone prototype that can
provide Navy warships with live video foot- age during a critical
incident, boosting response times to that incident.
Known as a Marine Evolutions Response Vessel (MERV), the drone has
the ability to autonomously patrol inci- dent areas, with the video
footage fed back to a ship for viewing by command, enabling them to
make more informed decisions.
Head of the robotics club, CPOET Allan Winning, said the drone
could be used for things like a man overboard incident, patrolling
naval waters, inter- cepting and interrogating trespassing vessels
and towing targets for live firing.
MERV was developed using lessons learned from the club’s Critical
Response Vehicle Project and is a scaled-down ver- sion of Navy’s
current seaboat.
The land-based prototype is made from plywood and fibreglass and
pro- pelled by a 3D-printed water-cooled brushless motor made at
the Centre for Innovation at Fleet Base East.
“Being able to produce these compo- nents through these emerging
technolo- gies has allowed the robotics club to test designs in
conjunction with safety con- siderations and refine the final
product,” CPO Winning said.
“This has allowed us to move for- ward in implementing this system
to dis- play at this year’s autonomous warrior event.”
Robotics club’s lifesaving drone prototype
CREWS of navy ships could one day be able to locate dis- tant small
aerial targets and threats flying just above the waves by detecting
single pho- tons of light.
A single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) is an extremely sensitive
sensor that works at the level of the individual particle and has
the potential to overcome the challenge of picking out small
targets amid the ocean waves, like a small uninhabited aerial
vehicle or a missile flying just above the surface of the
water.
Dr Dennis Delic, of the Defence Science and Technology Group, is
leading the design, development and commercialisation of SPADs
within Defence.
“With a normal camera, like your phone’s camera – those sorts of
sensors rely on using lots of photons to form an image; in fact,
they need millions of photons,” he said.
“With this miniature smart- sensor technology, we’re oper- ating at
the fundamental limit, detecting individual photons and registering
each particle.
“Using advanced process- ing, we can count them and time them, and
that opens up
all sorts of opportunities in terms of what we can do.”
SPADs can be used to build up 3D images in low-light con- ditions
or even when an object of interest is partially obscured.
Another significant advan- tage of this technology for military
operators is that using a SPAD as part of an active sensor system –
that is, a sys- tem which is emitting energy that could be detected
by an adversary – would reduce the risk of the user being targeted
when they switch it on because of the reduced power required.
Dr Delic said using a SPAD as the detector in a LiDAR system, which
measures dis- tances by illuminating objects with light from a
laser and then detecting the reflected energy, would considerably
reduce the power needed because of the SPAD’s ability to function
at very low photon levels.
“Combined with new integrated circuit design tech- niques, this
represents the next revolution in quantum imag- ing, allowing us to
see things that are normally hidden from view,” he said.
“Ultimately, this will help protect Australian military
personnel.”
SGT Sebastian Beurich
FOR the first time, new and expecting Navy parents will be able to
find policy and entitle- ments in one place, with the Navy Handbook
on Pregnancy and Support to Navy Parents, approved last
month.
Part of a new maternity man- agement package, which also includes a
guide on breastfeed- ing in the workplace, the hand- book covers
everything, from when members start thinking about starting a
family through to transitioning back to full-time work.
The handbook stemmed from an idea for a return-to- work guide, but
when author PO Sharni Koenig started looking at policy and
doctrine, she realised just how much information was out
there.
“I was baffled going through everything and figuring out where to
find information,” she said.
“If I was having trouble find- ing it, I’m sure every other per-
son – divisional officers, preg- nant women and their partners –
would be in the same boat.”
PO Koenig said she com-
pared her experience with with someone who had just returned from
maternity leave.
Both their experiences fed into the guide before it was sent to the
Women’s Diversity Reference Group for feedback.
“We did a Skype meeting with the reference group and they were all
asking why we hadn’t done this sooner,” she said.
“We highl ighted through PSU that there was no one in Navy who was
actually edu- cated about maternity issues, so it’s now being
incorporated into Maritime Human Resources Officer and Maritime
Personnel sailor training provided by the Maritime Personnel
School.”
When it’s complete, Navy’s senior leadership has indicated they
would send the package to partner forces.
“The feedback has been extremely positive. Navy Women has received
so many emails thanking us and letting us know how fantastic it all
is for support- ing our women,” PO Koenig said.
The handbook is available on the Navy Women’s intranet website, or
through the ePort Divisional Support website.
LSCTLJadine Harvey during her second trimester at Watsons Bay,
Sydney. Photo: LSIS Tara Byrne
Hamel Institute
www.hamel.edu.au info@hamel.edu.au
“Recognition of prior learning is about experience. If you
have led others, if you have balanced multiple tasks, if you have
administrative duties, please consider a complimentary
initial assessment.”
BSB51918 Diploma of Leadership and Management BSB51415 Diploma of
Project Management BSB50215 Diploma of Business All Qualifications
Assessed & Issued by Hamel Institute RTO 32399
Give your daughter the skills to build an exceptional future Merici
College is an affordable secondary school, educating young women in
a Catholic environment with a strong focus on pastoral care, and
targeted support for ADF families with an ADF mentor on site.
Our curriculum is wide and varied within a technology rich
environment.
Direct buses to the College are available from most suburbs and
neighbouring NSW centres.
To find out more contact the Enrolment Officer Ms Narelle Patrick
on 02 6243 4150 enrolment@merici.act.edu.au merici.act.edu.au
NewsFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 7
Comfort is key to PPE LEUT Stephen Nevison
WHEN PO Matthew Teis heard of a 12-month delay in delivering face
shields to medical staff at the Royal Darwin Hospital’s emergen- cy
department, he was quick to act.
The electronic technician used his experience to design and manu-
facture 150 face shields using the 3D printer at Navy’s Fleet
Support Unit- North and his personal equip- ment to ensure staff
had additional protection against COVID-19.
A trial by hospital staff reported they were able to wear them for
entire shifts within the building’s COVID-19 isolation area – a
feat previously not achieved because of
masks being uncomfortable. His proactive thinking and
designs earned PO Teis the 2021 Chief of Navy Excellence in
Innovation Award, which recog- nises individuals and groups within
Navy who have displayed quality, creativity, leadership, initiative
and accountability.
It aims to solidify a culture of innovation and encourage natural
talent to deliver practical innova- tion.
“This was a huge surprise. All I was trying to do was figure out
use- ful ways to use my toys at work,” PO Teis said.
As the senior systems main- tainer for his unit, PO Teis has
designed and developed a number of items on the unit’s 3D plastic
printer to improve the storage of sensitive and fragile
items.
It has resulted in cost savings and improved productivity for the
Fleet Support Unit - North.
Warfare Innovat ion Navy Deputy Director CMDR Steve Thompson said
there were a record number of entrants in this year’s awards.
“Competition was as strong as it ever has been and the high level
of submissions was extremely encour- aging to see,” CMDR Thompson
said.
“The quality, creativity and ini- tiative displayed was
exceptional.”
Then LSET Matthew Teis performs checks on the 25 millimetre primary
weapon system on board HMAS Albany. Photo: ABIS Lee-Anne Mack
ASLT Jack Meadows
THIS year’s annual Fleet Warfare Forum has set a record, with
thousands of sail- ors and officers tuning in to hear what’s in
store for Navy operations and capabil- ity in the coming
year.
Held on the DSN, the aim of the standdown was to open the strategic
con- versation about the importance of under- standing the current
challenges in our region.
Hosted by Fleet Commander RADM Mark Hammond, CDRE Flotillas CDRE
Michael Harris said the Forum was a full day of virtual
seminars.
A video presentation by Director General Maritime Operations, CDRE
Darren Grogan provided valuable insight into the Fleet Activity
Schedule (FAS) and future Navy thinking.
Head Navy Capability RADM Pete Quinn delved into future Navy capa-
bilities, and Chief of Staff Headquarters Joint Operations Command
CDRE Brett Sonter explored strategic and upper-level thinking and
the processes behind gen- erating operations and tactical deploy-
ments.
A presentation by the Maritime Intelligence Support Centre Director
CMDR Simon Kelly was also well received.
Challenges in the Indo-Pacific region were touched on by ANU
National Security College Head, Professor Rory Medcalf, who was
interviewed on cam- era about his thoughts on where the
region is heading. The forum was held virtually this year to
promote safe social distancing.
Despite concerns this would hamper attendance, the opposite appears
to have been the case with more than 4000 ADF members logging on to
view the series.
CDRE Harris supported the accessi- ble nature of the videos.
“FWF-21 has made a valuable con- tribution to the ongoing
discussion of the challenges we as warfighters face in the current
strategic environment,” he said.
“It is the engagement of our Warfare Teams across all ranks and
specialisa- tions that is essential in developing our understanding
of the issues.”
The day ended with a group discus- sion, led by CDRE Harris.
“I was extremely pleased with the level of participation across the
day,” CDRE Harris said.
Among the viewers was Legal Officer LEUT Melissa Chen who watched
the Forum online from her Fleet Headquarters office.
“The forum was a fascinating insight into the doctrine and major
issues informing our work as Navy personnel,” she said.
“Hearing Command speak about such important issues was an excellent
way to set the context for our year ahead.
“I found the briefings were easy to access, were of a very high
quality and provided for an engaging and informa- tive session,
prompting much discussion within our team.”
Warfare forum’s regional focus
Gap year sailor SMN Jordan Parsons watches Fleet Warfare Forum
online at Fleet Headquarters, Sydney. Photo ABIS Daniel
Goodman
AWAITING COPY Ad Number: defbank_21 Artwork: defbank_21 Size: 38x7
Description: DEFENCE BANK Account: Colour: W Filename:
defbank_21
defencebank.com.au 1800 033 139
*Rates are current as 1 October 2020 and subject to change.
Introductory rate is applicable for the first six months and then
reverts to the variable credit card rate, currently 8.99% p.a.
Credit eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges
apply. Card is issued by Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385
AFSL / Australian Credit Licence 234582.
Introducing Australia’s Defence Bank Foundation VISA Credit card.
It’s a win for members, a win for veterans and a win for
specially-trained dogs like Bruce, whose handsome face appears on
the card.
The credit card that has tails wagging.
3.99 % p.a.
8.99 % p.a.
Ongoing rate.*
• Up to 55 days interest free on purchases. • Same low rate for
purchases and cash advances. • Additional cardholder at no extra
cost.
Australia’s Defence Bank Foundation supports the Defence Community
Dogs’ Program. It provides specially-trained assistance dogs to
veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thanks
to you, we’ll donate half of the annual card fee every year to do
what we can to serve those who protect us.
Find out why this credit card is getting tongues and tails wagging
at defencebank.com.au/creditcard
The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal (the Tribunal) has
been directed to inquire into and report on unit recognition for
the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam (the
RANHFV).
In particular, the Tribunal is to examine relevant evidence and
consider whether it is appropriate that the RANHFV be awarded an
Australian unit decoration or another form of recognition for its
service in South Vietnam from October 1967 to June 1971.
Interested persons and groups are invited to make submissions to
this Inquiry. Full terms of reference, and guidance on making a
submission, is available on the Tribunal’s website at
www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au.
Submissions are requested by 16 June 2017. DPSMAY014/17
The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal (the Tribunal) has
been directed to inquire into and report on unit recognition for
the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam (the
RANHFV).
In particular, the Tribunal is to examine relevant evidence and
consider whether it is appropriate that the RANHFV be awarded an
Australian unit decoration or another form of recognition for its
service in South Vietnam from October 1967 to June 1971.
Interested persons and groups are invited to make submissions to
this Inquiry. Full terms of reference, and guidance on making a
submission, is available on the Tribunal’s website at
www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au.
Submissions are requested by 16 June 2017. DPSMAY014/17
INQUIRY INTO RECOGNITION FOR MEMBERS AND FAMILIES OF MEMBERS OF
THE
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE WHO ARE INJURED, WOUNDED OR KILLED IN OR
AS A
RESULT OF SERVICE The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal
has been directed to inquire into and report on recognition for
members and families of members of the Australian Defence Force who
are injured, wounded or killed in or as a result of service.
In particular, the Tribunal is to seek and receive submissions and
consider whether it is appropriate that members of the Australian
Defence Force who are injured, wounded or killed in or as a result
of service, or their families, receive an Australian honour or
award, or another form of recognition for that service.
Interested persons and organisations are invited to make a
submission to the Tribunal, in accordance with the inquiry terms of
reference, by Wednesday 31 March 2021.
The inquiry terms of reference and further information on how to
make a submission can be obtained by contacting the Tribunal,
via:
Telephone: 02 6266 1019 E-mail: DHA.Tribunal@defence.gov.au or
Website: www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au Submissions can be
mailed to:
The Executive Officer Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal
Level 1, 5 Tennant Street Fyshwick Locked Bag 7765 CANBERRA BC ACT
2610
NewsFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 9
Families to be welcomed virtually
Meaningful one word change AB Luke Stanley
The RAN Band has recorded a new rendition of the Australian
National Anthem featuring the new lyric, announced earlier this
year.
On New Year’s Eve, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced an
alteration to one of the lyrics in Advance Australia Fair, from ‘we
are young and free’ to ‘we are one and free’.
Mr Morrison said the change to the song, adopted as our national
anthem in 1984, was made to recognise our timeless land of ancient
First Nations peoples.
Navy Band had the pleasure of recording the new version, which was
used at official Australia Day events across the country.
It will also be used for Home Affairs purposes, ADF ceremonial,
citizenship ceremonies, school assemblies and other significant
occasions.
LSMUSN Tracy Kennedy said she
was proud to have provided vocals on the new recording.
“When I sing the Austral ian National Anthem I always feel a great
sense of pride and honour, especially when everyone sings along
with me,” LS Kennedy said.
“I think changing the word from young to one makes our anthem more
inclusive. It celebrates how culturally diverse our country really
is and brings us together as a nation.”
First Nations Foundation chairman and Yorta Yorta man Ian Hamm said
the change was an important step in setting expectations for the
future.
“This is an important indication to ourselves as a country about
what our expectations are going forward,” Mr Hamm said.
“To recognise in our national a n t h e m t h e c o n t i n u e d h
u m a n occupation of this continent from 60,000 years plus to
January 1, 2021, and beyond, is an important change.”
Navy vocalist Tracy Kennedy
held at Menin Gate Memorial in
Ieper, Belgium. Photo: SGT Christopher
Dickson
DEFENCE Community Organisation and local Command traditionally host
a series of welcome events across Australia for families who have
recent- ly posted to a new location.
This year our welcome events will look a bit different. For the
first time, a national virtual welcome event will be available for
Defence members and families to access.
With limited areas holding face- to-face welcome events, all
Defence Community Organisation area offices will be taking part in
our virtual welcome event—available from 15 February with a ‘live
day’ scheduled for Saturday 20 February 2021 from 10:30 to
16:00.
Paul Way, Director General Defence Community Organisation, said the
virtual welcome event means more members and their families,
regardless of where they reside, can access the range of
information at their convenience and from the comfort of
home.
“Navy members and their families can attend the Live Day on
Saturday 20 February to get information from a range of community
stalls and chat live to stallholders.”
Attending the 2021 DCO virtual welcome event has been made easy as
it offers all of the benefits of a face- to-face welcome event, but
is acces- sible from any location 24/7 using any smart device or
computer.
By registering, Navy members will gain access to the event from 15
February, including admission to the Live Day on 20 February
2021.
The virtual welcome platform will
NBN now available NATIONAL Broadband Network is now available at
315 Defence sites with living-in accommodation and married quarters
able to be connected. Telephone services can also be connected
through the NBN. Further information is available through local
base managers or at:
drnet/CIOG/Projects/NBN/Pages/default.aspx
On base – how to get connected: Go to the DPN’s ICT services page.
Find the “log a job online” link and search for “private
NBN/ADSL/
voice – new”. Obtain a location ID by visiting the CIOG intranet
site at
drnet/CIOG/Projects/NBN/Pages/default.aspx Contact your preferred
internet service provider and use the location ID to order a new
connection.
THE 2021 annual review of ADF accommodation assistance and
contributions has been finalised.
The new rates will take effect on July 8 and will be reflected in
members’ pay from July 22. Although typically reflected in members’
pay in February, the decision has been made to delay any
adjustments to member contributions until July, because of the
broader economic impact of COVID-19.
Members will be notified of changes to their contributions at least
three pay periods before they come into effect, through a range of
service notification channels, including service newspapers,
Defgram and Signal.
If you have any questions about the annual review of accommodation
assistance and contributions, speak to your chain of command or
visit the Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) at:
defence.gov.au/PayAndConditions
Delay to new rates for ADF accommodation assistance
The new rates for ADF accommodation assistance and contributions
will take effect on July 8.
be available throughout 2021. This means that families who
are moving later in the posting cycle, ADF parents who don’t live
in a Defence location, families with vulnerable family members, or
those who may be uncomfort- able attending an in-person event can
still access a wide range of information and support.
For details about the virtual
and the limited face-to-face events around Australia, Navy members
and their families can visit the events calendar on the Defence
Community Organisation website.
For more information, families can call Defence Family Helpline on:
1800 624 608 or email: DefenceFamilyHelpline@defence.gov.au
Information can also be found on DCO’s Facebook, Twitter and
Instagram accounts.
A Navy member with his daughter
at a previous DCO event.
10 February 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews
OUR SHORTEST
WAR
On the 30th anniversary of the Gulf War, SGT Sebastian Beurich
reflects on the impact it had on those who served.
JUST 72 hours’ notice to move was given to the first Australian
ships that were committed to the Gulf War.
Announced by then Prime Minister Bob Hawke on August 10, 1990,
eight days after Iraq invaded and annexed Kuwait, the deployment,
known as Operation Damask, committed Australia to the most
significant conflict since Vietnam.
HMA Ships Adelaide, Darwin and Success were in the first rotation,
which began Navy’s longest ongoing deploy-
ment. They joined 14 other nations in an armada of six aircraft
carriers, two battle- ships, 15 cruisers, 67 destroyers and frig-
ates and more than 100 logistic, amphibi- ous and smaller craft, at
the height of the war.
The fleet also had more than 800 fixed and rotary-wing
aircraft.
Although initial tasks revolved around embargo enforcement against
Iraq out- side the Arabian Gulf, HMA Ships Brisbane and Sydney,
which replaced the first two frigates, experienced a role
change after the UN Security Council passed resolution 678 while
they were in transit.
The resolution was the culmination of diplomatic action,
authorising the use of force against Iraq should they not with-
draw from Kuwait by January 15, 1991.
On January 17, a bar rage of Tomahawk cruise missiles marked the
start of the conflict, swiftly followed by a five-week air campaign
during which coa- lition forces flew 100,000 sorties, deploy- ing
more than 88,000 munitions.
One-hundred hours after coalition ground forces moved against the
Iraqis, then-US President George H. Bush declared a ceasefire and
that Kuwait had been liberated.
Also deployed was AUSCDT3, based in Bahrain, providing EOD and
underwa- ter inspection support from late January 1991. Mine
clearance operations were conducted in Kuwait throughout March and
April that year.
Four medical teams were deployed to the Task Group Medical Support
Elements
AUSCDT prepares for a dive during Operation Damask. PO Lee-Anne
Cooper
OIL fires filled the sky with smoke as Australian Clearance Diving
Team 3 (AUSCDT3) arrived in Bahrain on January 23, 1991.
Deploying to the Middle East on Operation Damask, Australia’s
support to Operation Desert Storm, the team of 23 operators was
involved initially with prepa- rations by the US Marine Corps for a
poten- tial amphibious invasion of Iraqi-occupied Kuwait.
The youngest member of the team was ABCD Gavin Stevens, then aged
20.
“I was just a young fella. At that point I had undertaken some
deployments, but nothing operational – not many people had back in
those days,” CPOCD Stevens said.
As the requirement for an amphibious assault tapered off, the
team’s primary focus
shifted to explosive ordnance disposal. The coalition team of 50
divers started
clearing the port of Mina Ash Shuaibah, 30km south of Kuwait.
They first cleared the wharves and ware- houses before moving on to
the surrounding waters.
Their search was hindered by a thick covering of crude oil and
wreckage in the water throughout the harbour.
“In some areas the oil had saturated the water so much that it
blanketed portions of the seabed, leaving a film on the sur- face
and oil in masses mid water,” CPOCD Stevens said.
“Some days you would be moving oil away from the surface so the
diver could enter the water and at the end of the dive the diver
would have to clear an exit point to come out.”
AUSCDT3 cleared more than 450,000
sqm over seven days, an effort accounting for 70 per cent of the
area cleared by coali- tion forces when the port was reopened to
shipping on March 12 of that year.
They then headed south to Ras Al Qualai’ah Naval Base, clearing it
and the surrounding beaches, as well as more than 400,000 sqm of
the adjacent harbour.
The whole time, they survived on ration packs and bottled water,
living in any ware- house they could find that provided
shelter.
“The team had a diverse and special- ised skill base, from a high
level of tactical skillsets to those with a high level of mine
counter measures and explosive ordnance disposal, this was combined
with under- water salvage and repair skills,” CPOCD Stevens
said.
“The work environment was harsh. The skies at times were so filled
with smoke from oil fires that even though it was the
Mates kept each other safe amidst oil fires on the sea
AUSCDT3 members watch after disposing of an unexploded ordnance
during Operation Damask.
Gulf War 30th anniversary February 18, 2021
defence.gov.au/news/navynews 11
OUR SHORTEST
WAR
On the 30th anniversary of the Gulf War, SGT Sebastian Beurich
reflects on the impact it had on those who served. One-hundred
hours after coalition
ground forces moved against the Iraqis, then-US President George H.
Bush declared a ceasefire and that Kuwait had been liberated.
Also deployed was AUSCDT3, based in Bahrain, providing EOD and
underwa- ter inspection support from late January 1991. Mine
clearance operations were conducted in Kuwait throughout March and
April that year.
Four medical teams were deployed to the Task Group Medical Support
Elements
aboard USS Comfort from September 1990 to March 1991.
Brisbane, Sydney and AUSCDT3 were awarded Meritorious Unit
Citations for their service during Operation Damask.
Australia’s naval commitment to the region continued for 30 more
years, in a variety of roles, including the continued enforcement
of UN sanctions before the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
The commitment ended last year, with HMAS Toowoomba the last ship
deployed on Operation Manitou.
SGT Sebastian Beurich
A LITTLE over two weeks after she spent Christmas alongside in
Bahrain, HMAS Brisbane was involved in one of the most intense air
bombardments of history.
Then-LEUT Ray Leggatt, a junior air intercept controller at the
time, recalled his days in Brisbane’s operations room, con-
trolling air patrols from the nearby US carriers, or as “tanker
king”, coordinating air-to-air refuelling.
They, with HMAS Sydney, had deployed on Operation Damask,
Australia’s contribution to Operation Desert Storm, replacing HMA
Ships Adelaide and Darwin.
The ships were in company with four US carrier battle groups,
which, along with coalition aircraft based in Saudi Arabia and
Europe, flew more than 100,000 sorties in the initial 42-day air
campaign.
“Technology played a huge role in the conflict – it was the first-
time things like cruise missiles were used,” NHQ Chief of Staff,
CDRE Leggatt said.
“CNN was broadcasting pic- tures and videos of missiles flying down
the streets of Baghdad, and that just hadn’t been seen
before.
“It showed the importance of technology and how it had changed the
way warfare was being con- ducted.”
It was also the first time Navy had formed the majority contribu-
tion to a conflict, deploying two combat ships, a logistic vessel –
HMAS Success, followed by HMAS Westralia – and a clearance diver
team at a time.
The largest maritime task force since WWII was also pulled together
in a very short period of time, according to CDRE Leggatt, with the
first two ships conduct- ing their work-up on the journey
The importance of working in a coalition
to the Middle East. Although many of the junior members of the crew
weren’t familiar with the region, having mainly operated in
South-East Asia previously, CDRE Leggatt said the ADF had since
developed close partnerships.
Navy was at the forefront of that relationship-building, with the
Gulf War marking the start of 30 years of near continuous naval
deployments, most recently under Operation Manitou.
“We’ve become known as valu- able, professional coalition part-
ners – not just Navy, the whole of the ADF,” CDRE Leggatt
said.
“I think as a whole, the Gulf War helped to generate a much more
professional ADF, a range of different relationships and really
enhanced our reputation.
“I think we saw how important working in a coalition environment
was.
“Understanding how they work and the importance of building trust
within them was a huge part of our deployment back then.”
CDRE Leggatt returned to the Middle East last year as Commander
CTF150, “book- ending” Navy’s commitments in the region, as
Australian strategic focus shifts back to South-East Asia.
Throughout those years of deployment, CDRE Leggatt said
relationships, particularly with the US, were built upon and Navy
learned many lessons.
Chief among them were how ships prepare for deployment and how they
work in concert with other nations.
While he might have been focused on his job at the time, CDRE
Leggatt said he could now also see the wider value in Australia
joining the coalition.
“We took an important role of saying Iraq’s actions were unac-
ceptable from an international rule- of-law point of view,” he
said.
“It was important to show that sort of behaviour was
unacceptable.”
sqm over seven days, an effort accounting for 70 per cent of the
area cleared by coali- tion forces when the port was reopened to
shipping on March 12 of that year.
They then headed south to Ras Al Qualai’ah Naval Base, clearing it
and the surrounding beaches, as well as more than 400,000 sqm of
the adjacent harbour.
The whole time, they survived on ration packs and bottled water,
living in any ware- house they could find that provided
shelter.
“The team had a diverse and special- ised skill base, from a high
level of tactical skillsets to those with a high level of mine
counter measures and explosive ordnance disposal, this was combined
with under- water salvage and repair skills,” CPOCD Stevens
said.
“The work environment was harsh. The skies at times were so filled
with smoke from oil fires that even though it was the
middle of the day, you didn’t know it. “I was fortunate to be part
of a great
group of professionals. I felt as safe as I did because of the
level of trust we had in each other.”
During 100 days of deployment, the team searched more than
2,157,200 sqm of seabed and cleared a total of 234,986 pieces of
ordnance.
They recovered, made safe or disposed of everything from Iraqi LUGM
145 sea mines to Chinese-made Silkworm anti-ship missiles.
AUSCDT3’s operations ended on April 22, 1991 and the team returned
to Bahrain to conduct essential maintenance on the more than 50
tonnes of equipment they had deployed into theatre with.
They returned to Australia on May 11 and were awarded a Meritorious
Unit Citation on November 4 that year.
Mates kept each other safe amidst oil fires on the sea AUSCDT3 - US
unit commedation presentation, in 2018.
HMAS Brisbane alongside Dubai in 1991,
during her deployment on Operation Damask . Photo: Supplied by the
Australian
War Memorial
AWAITING COPY Ad Number: smart salary_nn_18feb Artwork: smart
salary_nn_18feb Size: 38x7 Description: SMART SALARY Account:
Colour: W Filename: smart salary_nn_18feb
Novated leasing is the most cost-effective way to buy and run a
vehicle.
The cost of the vehicle and its running costs are bundled into a
single payment which smooths your budget and keeps more money in
your pocket.
With a Fleetcare Novated Lease, say ‘yes’ to:
Yes – National fleet discounts
Yes – Income tax savings
Yes – 24/7 driver support
With so many features and benefits, why wouldn’t you say
‘yes’?
Disclaimer: Customers must have a BP fuel card with car washes
enabled. The figures presented for the vehicle offers are correct
at time of print and based on the applicant living in VIC, with an
annual salary of $85,000. The weekly cost is based on a 60 month
term travelling 15,000km p.a. and includes estimated running costs
including finance, maintenance, tyres, registration, fuel and
insurance. Vehicle images are for illustration purposes only.
Figures may alter based on an individual’s circumstances and are
subject to change.
NLEE-PA-NAVY-0221
Save: $9,143*
Save: $6,175 $209*
Novated Showroom Visit www.fleetcare.com.au/novated-showroom for
more exclusive Fleetcare Novated specials.
Call: 134 333 Visit: fleetcare.com.au/defence-force Email:
getnovated@fleetcare.com.au
13FeaturesFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews
DRIVE over the causeway to Western Australia’s Garden Island and a
number of Navy vessels sheltered along the
island’s eastern side come into view, contrasting the pristine
beaches on the west.
These beaches wouldn’t have been too different from what Dutch
explor- ers saw in the late 1600s or what the French witnessed when
they named the island "Ile Buache" about 100 years later.
Royal Navy Captain James Stirling arrived in 1827, renaming the
island and returning two years later to found Western Australia’s
first European set- tlement.
Captain Stirling argued to establish a city and Navy base in Perth,
with access to the Indian Ocean trade routes and a moderate climate
for support naval operations.
The island hosted a town, anchor- age and cargo disembarkation
until Fremantle’s inner harbour was com- plete in 1897.
It became a holiday resort after World War I before having coastal-
defence batteries mounted in World War II and hosted training for
soldiers of Z Special Unit.
After the war, Garden Island again became a holiday resort and the
home of the RAN Reserve Fleet.
It was earmarked as a major naval base in the late 1960s and the
cause- way was built in 1973.
Base construction finished in 1978 and the site commissioned HMAS
Stirling in the Royal Navy captain’s honour with a crest based in
his family coat of arms.
Also referred to as Fleet Base West and incorporating all of Garden
Island, Stirling is the Indian Ocean fleet base, under Australia’s
1987 two-ocean bas- ing policy.
Today, this 10 by 1.5km sliver of land is a home to 12 major fleet
units, including five Anzac-class frigates, six Collins-class
submarines, an auxiliary oiler and clearance diving team.
The base provides such things as ship repairs, logistics, research
facili- ties and training.
More than 70 other units and func-
As major upgrades are on-the-way, WO2 Max Bree reports on the
history behind HMAS Stirling.
tions are based at the island, including the Submarine Training and
Systems Centre, a helicopter support facility, Defence
Communications Station – Perth and Joint Logistic Units –
West.
CO HMAS Stirling CAPT Ainsley Morthorpe said the base’s proximity
to Perth made it the ideal location.
“A key strategic benefit for sup- porting the fleet here and
hosting a workforce of over 3600 staff and their families, is our
ready access to a modern and thriving city; with its associated
heavy industry, shipyards, schools and other sophisticated
facili-
ties needed for modern ships and fami- lies,” CAPT Morthorpe
said.
Navy’s second and final Supply- class “Auxiliary Oiler
Replenishment” Stirling will replace HMAS Sirius at Garden
Island.
The first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels, HMAS Arafura, will
also call the base home, along with Navy’s new Hunter-class
frigates.
This works to support these new ships have begun, including at a
156m extension to the existing armaments wharf to support explosive
ordnance loading of ships and due for comple-
tion in mid-2021. New accommodation, logistics,
maintenance and training facilities are also being built to support
the Arafura- class.
Works to support Hunter-class frigates should start in middle of
the decade, comprising upgrades and extensions to existing wharves
and structures, along with additional accommodation and training
facilities.
“From an environmental perspec- tive, I am also pleased to say that
all our development plans will be focused on the already built
environment as we
fill in work space,” CAPT Morthorpe said.
“This will allow Defence and Navy to not only develop a modern and
exciting 21st century naval base, but also protect the stunning
natural envi- ronment which is a jewel of Cockburn Sound, of which
I am constantly amazed and proud to be a steward of.
“While I am unlikely to personally enjoy the combined benefits of
the final outcome, it will be a dynamic, inspiring and modern
workplace for someone like my daughter, who is also in the Navy, to
serve in.”
A Stirling upgrade
around HMAS Stirling and Fleet Base West, in 2020.
Photo: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko
Aerial photograph of HMAS Stirling in the early 1990’s. Photo: Navy
Heritage
Apply Now Specialist Intelligence Collection Operations
Are you good with people and looking for a change?
Working individually, or as part of a team, Defence Source
Operators (DSOs) are responsible for managing a network of
validated individuals that willingly provide information over a
protracted period. Defence Exploitation Operators (DEO) produce
intelligence based on information gained from people (captured
personnel), materiel and documents.
Operator Positions are PTE(P) to SGT(E) from Army, Navy and Air
Force. Command positions are available to LT and CAPT AUSTINT
Email: adf.humint@defence.gov.au Phone: 07 3332 9713
15PersonnelFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews
Sleep is more important than you think LCDR Kate Meyer
SLEEP disorders are common among people in the military and can
have significant negative impacts on health and the ability to
function dur- ing the day, according to Director of Navy Psychology
Jennifer Wheeler.
Ms Wheeler said insomnia, which is a condition where a person finds
it hard to get to sleep or stay asleep, was the most common sleep
disorder among military personnel.
“Sleep is a basic human need, much like eating and drinking, and is
crucial to our overall health and wellbeing,” Ms Wheeler
said.
“But for many reasons, a lot of people don’t get enough sleep, or
don’t get good quality sleep – espe- cially in the military.”
She said there were a number of possible causes of insomnia,
includ- ing some medications and substances such as caffeine,
alcohol and nico- tine.
Chronic pain, poor mental health, including stress, anxiety,
depression and grief, and environmental factors like noise and
temperature also can affect sleep.
Ms Wheeler said regardless of the cause, poor quality sleep was
a
problem that required attention. “Most disorders are
preventable
or treatable,” she said. She said different people had dif-
ferent sleep needs, but the Australian Sleep Health Foundation
recom- mended the amount of good quality sleep for adults aged
between 18 and 64 was between seven to nine hours a day.
The US-based National Sleep Foundation reports the key deter-
minants of quality sleep include sleeping at least 85 per cent of
the total time spent in bed; falling asleep within 30 minutes or
less; waking up no more than once a night; and being awake for 20
minutes or less after initially falling asleep.
Ms Wheeler said concerns about your sleep should be raised with a
medical officer or mental health pro- fessional for support and
advice.
In the lead-up to World Sleep Day on March 19, Ms Wheeler is urging
those who find it hard to sleep to attend presentations on sleep
health to be conducted by Navy psy- chologists next month.
Contact your local Navy Psychology Section for more information or
to register for a sleep presentation.
ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP? 1. Do you fall asleep in less than
five minutes after going to bed? 2. Do you often feel like you
could do with a nap? 3. Do you become drowsy after eating a large
meal? 4. Do you fall asleep when watching
TV or sitting in meetings and presentations? 5. Do boring
activities make you sleepy? 6. Do you sleep an hour or two longer
than usual on days when off duty? 7. Do you find that you can
hardly
make it through the working day without caffeine in some form? If
you answered ‘yes’ to one or more questions, you’re probably not
getting enough sleep and are sleep-deprived. Quiz adapted from
Fatigue in Aviation: A guide to staying awake at the stick.
PO Lee-Anne Cooper
While WOML-S Natasha McRoe was sail- ing the high seas, her little
sister WOML-S Amy Gale was waiting at home for the postman.
“We would get letters from Tash, it’s not like now; a phone call
was once in a blue moon,” Amy said.
The pair grew up in New Norfolk, on the River Derwent in north of
Hobart, where Natasha dreamed of voyages around the world and
meeting new people in far off lands.
First in the family to join, Natasha enlisted in 2000 with Amy
following in 2001.
The experiences they have had range from Middle East deployments to
Operation Sumatra Assist.
Both sisters said the engrained work ethic and empathy instilled in
them by mum Vicki led to their success.
“A single mother of three, mum is an extraordinary strong,
independent woman,
who has always supported us, includ- ing from time to time
providing a reality check,” Natasha said.
“Nothing was ever handed to us, we were taught you have to work for
what you want.”
On promotion, Amy took over as Hospitality and Catering Manager at
HMAS Watson, a positon acting as Divisional Officer for more than
60 ML-S and ML-C, and one held by Natasha three years
previously.
Amy said she was prepared for the role heading in, thanks to being
able to draw on her sister’s experience.
With their collective 41 years of service the sisters, who talk
most days, draw upon the support of one another’s experience.
As WO PSU Australia, Natasha provides support to case managers and
divisional officers within PSU regional centres across the
country.
Through Amy’s extensive knowledge of SharePoint from her posting at
FHQ, she has been able to help Tash update and
improve PSU’s intranet. “We bounce ideas off each other on a daily
basis,” Amy said.
Amy and Natasha also share the bond of motherhood, both having two
boys each.
As successful women who are passion- ate about their jobs, the
sisters hope to be the inspiration to others that want to be a
parent and have a rewarding career.
“Navy is supportive and has flexible options, especially for mums,”
Amy said.
“I work in Sydney but my family have remained in Canberra and I am
able to work remotely once a week.
“Tash is able to also work remotely for Navy HQ at Anglesea
Barracks in Hobart.
“We are very fortunate, we get to go to work every day loving what
we do and we get to be a mum, which is the most impor- tant
thing.”
Natasha and Amy said their accomplish- ments were a result of hard
work, dedica- tion and the support of their family.
“There is no prouder moment than standing side by side with my
sister,” Natasha said.
WOML-S Natasha McRoe and sister WOML-S Amy Gale, in Tasmania.
Sisters on same path
WO Amy Gale with sons Tyler and Carter at HMAS Harman, Canberra.
Photo: LSIS Craig Walton
WO Natasha McRoe with her sons Flynn and Riley in the Royal
Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Hobart. Photo: WO2 Max Bree
For many reasons,
sleep.
16 Personnel February 18, 2021
Embracing opportunities PO Lee-Anne Cooper
IN A PREVIOUS life, SBLT Nancy Cotton walked the beat as a met-
ropolitan police officer in London, one of the busiest cities in
the world.
She travelled extensively through Europe and the world to satisfy
an adventurous spirit, including her first trip to Australia in
1995.
Expansive blue skies and the smell of eucalyptus overwhelmed the
senses of the then-17-year-old the first time she stepped off the
plane in Perth.
“I loved how open it felt. It was
nothing like London,” SBLT Cotton said.
“I wanted to move here but thought it could never happen.”
Serendipity tipped its hat a dec- ade later when SBLT Cotton found
out the South Australian police were recruiting lateral transfers
from the UK.
Embracing the opportunity, she made the move and in 2007 declared
Australia her home, becoming a citizen and moving around between
Victoria and Queensland, before settling in Canberra.
Fast forward 17 years and SBLT Cotton landed in the Navy
after seeing an advertisement on the television. In an off-the-cuff
comment to her ex-Navy husband, she said 'I wish I had done that in
my younger years'.
“He looked at me and said, ‘go on then, give it a go’,” she
said.
She took the plunge and joined the RAN as a reserve public
relations officer in October 2019.
She’s now undertaking a mas- ter’s degree in communications and
public relations, something SBLT Cotton said shows she’s in the for
long-haul.
“I have done this journey and I see myself staying on until
retirement,” she said.
It was time for a sea change
Returning to trade for Fiji assist
SBLT Nancy Cotton at Russell Offices in Canberra, ACT. Photo: POIS
Lee-Anne Cooper
PO Lee-Anne Cooper
BIZARRE animals like a t-rex crossed with a deer and white sand
beaches con- sumed the daydreams of AB Brittany Alexander during
freezing Canadian winters.
“During my time posted to Her Majes ty ’s Canad ian Submar ine
Chicoutimi, we had a RAN exchange officer with us,” AB Alexander
said.
“Everyone who had been to Australia talked about the warm weather
and weird animals.”
Born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, AB Alexander said she always
longed for adventure.
Her first step was joining the Canadian Navy in 2006, before trans-
ferring to the submarine fleet five years later.
When she heard Navy was looking at expanding its submarine fleet,
AB Alexander said she was keen to be part of cutting-edge
technology.
“I thought ‘I want to be a part of that’,” she said.
“My dad was all for it. He knew I
always wanted an adventure and was like, ‘go for it’.”
In 2014, AB Alexander started her 12-month journey to laterally
transfer, making it official when she became an Australian citizen
in January 2015.
“It took me about two years to qual- ify after transferring to the
RAN. I did the lateral training and then had to re-do seamanship
and weapons before get- ting to HMAS Stirling to commence at
Submarine Training School,” she said.
“My training for submarines took me about eight months and I
qualified while posted to HMAS Waller.”
Only a 20-minute drive from the white sand beaches she dreamed of,
AB Alexander is posted to HMAS Albatross on the NSW South
Coast.
Now as a mum to one-year-old Conner, she said she was loving life
in Australia and the Navy.
“The number one thing about the Australian Navy is we focus on our
members as people and not just a num- ber,” AB Alexander said
“Navy is doing it right.”
AB Brittany Alexander transferred from the Canadian Navy to the RAN
in 2015. Photo: POIS Cameron Martin
CPL Dustin Anderson
AFTER more than 10 years in Navy, LS Leigh Gough dusted off his
tool belt to return to his former trade during Operation Fiji
Assist.
Originally from St Clair in Sydney, LS Gough was an apprentice
carpenter before he joined the Navy.
Now a combat systems operator in HMAS Adelaide, LS Gough worked
with sappers from the 6th Engineer Support Regiment in Fiji
repairing buildings damaged by Tropical Cyclone Yasa.
LS Gough said returning to the skills from his former trade was a
relatively easy thing to do.
“Carpentry is the type of skill that you don’t forget,” he
said.
“Having the guys on the ground [sappers] helped me get straight
back on the tools.
“I gained a lot of experience working with the team.
“I’ve made great friendships that will continue after this
operation.”
Operation Fiji Assist was LS Gough’s first overseas deployment, and
his work included repairing damaged schools, wash stations and
roofs.
“I am very proud that I left a lasting impact on the ground,” he
said.
“Being there and seeing how happy we made the Fijian children is a
memory that will last forever.”
He deployed in December, which meant he was unable to spend
Christmas at home with wife, Sarah, and their daughters, Charlotte
and Evelyn.
“This was the first time I was away from my family over Christmas;
not being able to see my wife and kids was hard,” LS Gough
said.
LS Leigh Gough on
during Op Fiji Assist.
Photo: CPL Dustin Anderson
defencebank.com.au 1800 033 139
*Terms and conditions and interest rates are available at
defencebank.com.au. Fees and charges may apply. Interest rate is
current as at 11 June 2020 and is subject to change without notice.
No minimum deposit. Bonus interest for balances up to $100,000. To
receive the Salute account, the member must deposit $1500 (minimum)
into a Defence Bank Everyday Access account each month of the 12
month period. After the 12 month period the interest rate will
revert to the Salute account base interest rate. Before acquiring
any product please consider whether it is right for you. Defence
Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL / Australian Credit Licence
234582.
It’s simply our way of saying ‘thank you’. Talk to us today to find
out more.
Introducing the Defence Bank Salute account.
Our Salute account rewards those who have reached 15 or 25 years of
service, are on deployment or leaving the ADF, with bonus interest
for 12 months.*
Up to2.25 % p.a.
Answers
1. Balearic Islands. 2. Grapefruit. 3. Aglet. 4. Trinidad and
Tobago. 5. Two. 6. Aluminium. 7. Oil and egg yolk. 8. A Cygnet. 9.
Skin. 10. Makes maps.
1. Majorca is the largest of which island group? 2. What is the
common name for the fruit Citrus grandis? 3. What is the plastic
piece at the end of a shoelace called? 4. What country has the
largest tar pit? 5. How many daily tides are there? 6. Bauxite ore
is mined so it can be processed into what metal? 7. What are the
two main ingredients of mayonnaise? 8. What is a baby swan called?
9. What is the largest human organ? 10. What does a cartographer
do?
Quick-fire questions What is a baby swan called? (Q8) Photo: Phil
Botha on Unsplash
17GangwayFebruary 18, 2021 defence.gov.au/news/navynews
AB Chelsea De Angeli gives a thumbs up on the flight deck of HMAS
Adelaide as the ship returns to Sydney after Op Fiji Assist. Photo:
CPL Dustin Anderson
LS Caleb Wilson plays drums with the RAN Band Tasmania during the
Royal Hobart Regatta. Photo: WO2 Max Bree
LSMT Jackson Cashion hands sunglasses to Isabella,2, and Benjamin
Devenish, 6, in front of the Defence Force Recruiting tent, at the
Royal Hobart Regatta. Photo: WO2 Max Bree
Compete on the Reef! 20+ sports Huge social program Sportsperson’s
dinner
Early bird ends
SGT Janine Fabre
ABOUT 25 ADF women took to the waters of Lake Burley Griffin in
Canberra to try out their sailing skills.
The ADF Sailing Association’s ‘She Sails’ Discover Sailing Day was
held in conjunction with the Canberra Yacht Club on February
7.
Alice Burgess, an instructor at the Canberra Yacht Club, said the
events were a great way for participants to see if it was something
they’d enjoy.
“It was really good to see so many other ladies getting out there
sailing,” Ms Burgess said.
“We taught them some theory and how to rig up the boats, how to
capsize and retrieve the boat.
“They all seemed to pick up the rigging pretty well and, although
there was not much wind, they were keeping it upright.
“I saw a lot of smiles and laughs so I think they enjoyed
themselves.”
President of the ADF Sailing
Association WGCDR Sean Ahern said sailing was great because it was
not gender specific.
“When we sail, we don’t have men’s or women’s divisions, we have
class divisions. What boat you have depends on what race you are
in,” WGCDR Ahern said.
“The boat is the differentiation, not the gender.
“The event is about giving people the basic skills and to give them
a little bit of confidence so they can start their journey.”
RAAF CPL Cheyenne Patena- Edmonds has been sailing for a while and
first started with the Newcastle ‘She Sails’.
“We are a group of ladies who get together and want to learn
sailing,” CPL Patena-Edmonds said.
“It is a great introduction into sail- ing. Just learning the
basics such as looking at the weather, the wind, how to rig a
boat.
“I think it is an amazing environ-
ment to learn in because you go back to the basics. It is just a
good atmos- phere as well.”
LS Holly Bird said it was the first time she’d tried sailing a
yacht since she was a teenager.
“We got in the sailboats and tried to catch as much wind as we
could to have a go at sailing and to get some speed,” LS Bird
said.
“I definitely intend to come back and hire out the boats and do it
again when there is a bit more wind.
“It was really good to be back on the water.”
The ADF Sailing Association holds a number of inter-service and
combined sailing events throughout the year, culminating in the ADF
Sailing carnival on Sydney Harbour in December.
The ADF Sailing Association is a joint Association, comprising
members from all three services, many of whom are also members of
the single Service Sailing Associations.
Women on the water
ADF women enjoy a morning of sailing at the Canberra Yacht
Club, Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra.
Photo: SGT Janine Fabre
Funding comes from the ADF Sports Cell, which is part of JCG and
also supports the 28 other endorsed ADF Sports Associations.
The ADF Sports Cell aims to enhance members’ physical and
mental
wellbeing by connecting people of all ranks and services.
There are active ADF Sailing communities throughout Australia. For
information contact: adfsa.committee@defence.gov.au
UPCOMING EVENTS 21 Feb ADF Triathlon Geelong, Vic 21 Feb ADF
Triathlon, Noosa Triathlon Festival Noosa, Qld 26 Feb ADF
Triathlon, CPL Renee Nicholls Memorial Triathlon Canungra, Qld
26-28 Feb ADF Triathlon, Big Husky Huskisson, NSW 27-1 Mar ADF
Triathlon, Ultra355 Hervey Bay, Qld 5-7 Mar ADF Sailing, Sydney
Harbour Regatta Sydney, NSW 5-8 Mar ADF Running, Australian Masters
Athletics Championships Canberra, ACT 6-14 Mar ADF Parachuting,
National Championships Nagambie,NSW 14 Mar ADF Triathlon Victor
Harbour, SA 21 Mar ADF Triathlon Mooloolaba, Qld 27 Mar ADF
Triathlon Forster, NSW 28 Mar ADF Triathlon Kingscliff, Qld
For more information, email: Defence.sports@defence.gov.au
18 Sport February 18, 2021
CALL 1300 738 601 fleetnetwork.com.au/defence
contact@fleetnetwork.com.au
Same day quotes!
*Terms and conditions apply.
the complete car solution
Get yOur new car Cheaper HOW IT WORKS All this covered in an easy
& affordable deduction from your take home pay.
exclusive offer!
Receive a $200 Rebel Sport voucher with every vehicle
purchase
before 31 March 2021.*Ty re s
Finance
SPORT
ADF women take to the waters of Lake Burley Griffin
in Canberra for the ADF Sailing Association’s ‘She
Sails’ Discover Sailing Day. Photo: SGTJanine Fabre
NN1801
NN1802
NN1803
NN1804
NN1805
NN1806
NN1807
NN1808
NN1809
NN1810
NN1812
NN1813
NN1814
NN1815
NN1816
NN1817
NN1818
NN1819
NN1820