F-35A is ‘combat ready’ – Page 3 Milestone for our PC-21 – Page 5

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 14, August 11, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

ATFULLPITCH

Exercise Pitch Black in

full flight

Page 2, Centre

Four F/A-18A Hornets fly over RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

2 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FPitch Black

DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

EditorLawrence Dutrieux: (02) 6266 7612

ReportersWO2 Andrew HetheringtonSGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Bill Solomou: (02) 6265 1355CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304LS Jayson Tufrey: (02) 6266 7606CPL Sebastian Beurich: (02) 6265 4140

CONTACT USraafnews@defencenews.gov.auThe Editor, Air Force News, R8-LG-047, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnewsFax: (02) 6265 6690

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RCEAIR F

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

Eamon Hamilton

FOR THE first time, American F-16C jets have deployed to Exercise Pitch Black using Australia’s KC-30A multi-role tanker transport.

An Air Force KC-30A flew with six F-16Cs from Kadena Air Base in Japan to RAAF Base Darwin in just over six hours on July 19.

GPCAPT Adam Williams, OC of 86 Wing, said it was the first time a RAAF air-to-air refuelling tanker had deployed US Air Force fighter aircraft to Australia.

“The KC-30A conducted 35 con-tacts with the six F-16Cs, transfer-ring a total of 55.8 tonnes of fuel to the F-16Cs, or nearly 70,000 litres,” Group Captain Williams said.

“The air-to-air refuelling boom on the KC-30A performed well, with no significant issues.”

“Despite some periods of moder-ate turbulence en route, they com-pleted the 5400km journey safely.”

On the return trips, the KC-30A deployed 12 F-16Cs from the 14th Fighter Squadron (14th FS) in the week before Exercise Pitch Black.

Commander of the 14th FS, LTCOL Mark Heusinkveld, said the KC-30A’s support was a testament to the interoperability between partner nations at Exercise Pitch Black.

“The refuelling not only provides mutually beneficial training between US and Australian air forces but also demonstrates the close military ties between our nations,” he said.

“It’s always advantageous when training opportunities like these pre-sent themselves.

“This strengthening of our multi-lateral relationship will only continue as we train and improve our alliance capabilities.”

This deployment builds on suc-cessful refuelling trials between a KC-30A and American F-16s at Edwards Air Force Base, conducted late last year and early this year.

To refuel the F-16Cs, the KC-30A used its 18-metre-long advanced refuelling boom system (ARBS), controlled by an air refuelling opera-tor in the KC-30A’s cockpit through the use of fly-by-wire controls and 3D glasses.

As each F-16C flew in close

formation behind the KC-30A, the ARBS would “plug” into a fuel receptacle on the F-16C and com-mence refuelling.

GPCAPT Williams said the KC-30A would refuel USAF F-16Cs during Exercise Pitch Black, which finishes on August 19, as well as the E-7A Wedgetail and F/A-18s partici-pating in the exercise.

“This deployment is a significant milestone for the RAAF’s KC-30A, as it demonstrates our ability to refu-el international F-16s within the Asia Pacific region as well during opera-tions further abroad,” he said.

“This will further reinforce the close bonds between our air forces in the field of air-to-air refuelling.”

Our tanker on taskKC-30A proves a worthy partner to US jets during Exercise Pitch Black

Keep up with Exercise Pitch Black via Air Force’s social media outlets and the exercise website (www.airforce.gov.au/pitchblack16), and in Air Force News.

THE Heron unmanned aerial vehicle has made its debut in Exercise Pitch Black, which is now in full swing in the Northern Territory.

The exercise, Air Force’s largest training activity for the year, was officially launched on July 29 and ends on August 19.

Pitch Black CO AIRCDRE Vincent “Joe” Iervasi said the exercise recognised Austra-lia’s strong relationship with each of the par-ticipating nations and the high value it placed on regional stability and fostering closer ties throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

“The training and integration of forces that occurs on exercises such as Pitch Black directly supports our ability to conduct opera-tions, such as current missions in the Middle East against Daesh,” AIRCDRE Iervasi said.

“Exercise Pitch Black gives Air Force a valuable opportunity to exercise our high-end warfighting capabilities, including new plat-forms and systems.”

The exercise includes up to 115 aircraft operating primarily from RAAF Base Darwin and RAAF Base Tindal and up to 2500 per-sonnel from 10 countries: Australia, Canada, Indonesia, France (New Caledonia), Germa-ny, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and the United States.

Pitch Black is expected to inject about $25 million into the Darwin community.

First for Heron in biggest exercise

Pitch Black in pictures Centre

A Heron remotely piloted aircraft from No. 5 Flight takes off from RAAF Base Tindal during Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: CPL Terry Hartin

A USAF F-16C taxis into RAAF Base Darwin as part of Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

F-35A is ‘combat ready’ – Page 3 Milestone for our PC-21 – Page 5

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 14, August 11, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

ATFULLPITCH

Exercise Pitch Black in

full flight

Page 2, Centre

Four F/A-18A Hornets fly over RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Caters for ADF families in the ACTMERICI COLLEGE

Merici College ....• is a quality, affordable non-government secondaryschool, educating girls in a Catholic environment

• is renowned for its strong focus on pastoral care• has targeted support for ADF families with anADF mentor on site

• offers a wide and varied curriculum in atechnology rich environment

• has direct buses to the College from mostsuburbs and neighbouring NSW centres

To find out more about Merici College see our website atwww.merici.act.edu.au or contact the Enrolment Officer Ms Trish Ryan on(02) 6243 4102 or by email: patricia.ryan@merici.act.edu.au

Building FuturesFOR EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG WOMEN

3August 11, 2016RCEAIR F News

CPL Bill Solomou

IT was an historic and monumental day for Air Force after the F-35A Lightning II was declared “combat ready” by United States Air Force Air Combat Command in late July.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies welcomed the news and congrat-ulated the USAF for achieving Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for the F-35A.

AIRMSHL Davies said he looked forward to working with the USAF as our Air Force moved towards its IOC in 2020.

“The Joint Strike Fighter will be a significant increase in our combat capability,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“Our t ra in ing i s a l ready under way and we’re building the infrastructure at RAAF Base Williamtown, ready for our first aircraft to arrive in late 2018.”

He said the Joint Strike Fighter represented the cutting edge of fifth generation military aircraft technol-ogy.

Defence Minister Senator Marise Payne said this significant milestone was a sign of maturity in the global F-35A capability.

“USAF IOC provides con-fidence for the Australian F-35 Program which will invest in 72 F-35A aircraft,” she said.

“More than 150 F-35 aircraft have now flown more than 65,000 hours and three Australian pilots are among more than 300 interna-tional pilots who have now quali-fied.”

Australian F-35A aircraft have flown a combined total of about 700 hours as at August 2016.

Australia’s next eight aircraft will be received in 2018 which will initially operate as part of the pool of aircraft at the F-35 Pilot Training Centre at Luke Air Force Base.

Initially, two aircraft will be transported to Australia late 2018 and will be the first to be based in Australia at RAAF Base Williamtown.

USAF Commander Air Combat Command GEN Herbert “Hawk” Carlisle said the achievement was an historic and monumental day for the program.

GEN Carlisle lauded the air-craft’s performance, noting that the aircraft had met all key criteria for reaching initial operational capabil-ity.

“I am proud to announce this powerful new weapons system has achieved initial combat capability,” GEN Carlisle said.

The criteria included: Airmen trained, manned and equipped to conduct basic close air support, interdiction, and limited suppres-sion/destruction of enemy air defences in a contested environ-ment with an operational squad-ron of 12-24 aircraft; the ability to deploy and conduct operational missions using program of record weapons and missions systems; and having all necessary logistics and operational elements in place.

JSF notches up historical capability milestone

COMBAT READYTHE F-35 program completed its first air-to-air “kill” test after a UAV was hit in a military test range in the US on July 28.

The F-35 Lightning II advanced its combat capability after directly hitting the UAV off the Californian coast.

USAF test pilot, MAJ Raven LeClair, employed an AIM-9X missile from an F-35A’s external wing against an aerial UAV target in restricted military sea test range airspace.

“It’s been said you don’t really have a fighter until you can actually hit a target and we crossed that threshold with the first air-to-air weapon delivery of an AIM-9X,” MAJ LeClair.

“This successful test demon-strates the combat capability the F-35 will bring to our allies.”

After launch, the missile suc-cessfully acquired the target and

followed an intercept flight pro-file before destroying the UAV, achieving the first F-35 air-to-air kill or “Boola Boola,” which is the traditional radio call made when a pilot shoots down a UAV.

Immediately prior to launching the AIM-9X, MAJ LeClair employed an internally carried AIM-120C missile against another target UAV. This target was beyond visual range and the AIM-120C was given a successful self-destruct signal right before target impact.

The AIM-9X is a short-range heat-seeking missile with an off-boresight capability for accuracy and features thrust-vectoring con-trols for increased turn capability.

The F-35 can carry two AIM-9X missiles on its wings. During previous test shots a self-destruct signal had been sent to the missile prior to it hitting the target.

First air-to-air kill

An F-35A conducts testing with an AIM-9X over the

skies of California.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies, with an F-35A during the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in July, congratulated the USAF for achieving Initial Operating Capability for the Joint Strike Fighter. Photo: CPL Brenton Kwaterski

Applications for payment under theEmployer Support Payment Scheme(ESPS) can now be lodged online.

The ESPS provides financial assistanceto eligible employers of Reservists andself-employed Reservists when theReservist is absent on Defence service.

The online claims system replacesWebforms AD138-1 to AD138-4.

For further information please visit:http://www.defencereservessupport.gov.au/

EMPLOYER SUPPORTPAYMENT SCHEMENOW ONLINE

DPS JUN037-16

4 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FNews

IN A fi r s t fo r the ADF, the Commander Air Task Group (CATG) has flown combat missions in an F/A-18A Hornet in support of Operation Okra.

AIRCDRE Phil Gordon, who took command in July as a fully qualified and combat ready F/A-18A fighter pilot, conducted two missions in the aircraft.

AIRCDRE Gordon logged 15.5 hours over three days, employing five weapons in direct support of ground forces fighting against Daesh.

“I was very fortunate to come to this position from command of 81

Wing in Australia and, as such, I had the opportunity to conduct dedicated mission rehearsal training in the F/A-18A along with the other ATG pilots prior to departing,” he said.

By undertaking the combat mis-sions, with all the associated risk and responsibility, AIRCDRE Gordon has shown his qualities as a leader who is prepared to lead from the front – figu-ratively and literally.

“Just going through the process of getting to Iraq and back gives you a unique appreciation of what we are asking our people to do,” he said.

“It was 49 degrees celsius when I

was strapping in and it got hotter after I took off. That takes a toll on the air-crew and ground crew and it is remark-able how resilient our people are when they are focused on their mission.

“Throughout the eight-hour flight, we conduct air-to-air refuelling on average six times and work with a multitude of different control agencies, including joint terminal attack control-lers (JTACs), who coordinate with the ground forces and the various intel-ligence gathering platforms to pass us the details of the targets.”

The employment of weapons by Australian Hornets is planned and

checked using sophisticated damage assessment modelling, either before the flight or in real time, by JTACs and Australian personnel in the Combined Air Operations Centre.

“I was struck by how busy the air-space was over the target areas, with multiple remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) and fighter aircraft from other nations stacked above and below you,” AIRCDRE Gordon said.

He described the activities as a truly “coalition effort”.

“Over the course of the two flights I conducted air-to-air refuelling from five different nations’ aircraft.

“For me it was a chance to appreci-ate first-hand what we are asking of the pilots who fly these missions every day, and to understand how the whole team pulls together to deliver consist-ently exceptional results,” he said.

“This is not a simple undertaking. Our people are highly skilled and we are well prepared thanks to years of exercises and training with our coali-tion partners.

“The success of these missions highlights the ongoing effectiveness Australian and coalition air power is having in diminishing Daesh’s ability to defend and control territory in Iraq.”

SHEER GRIT

Commander leads from the front as he slips into the Hornet cockpit for Middle East sorties

AIRCDRE Phil Gordon with an F/A-18A Hornet at

Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East.

Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

THE Australian Air Task Group E-7A Wedgetail went on tempo-rary display at Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East to give coalition partners a closer look at the platform that plays an integral part in the region’s opera-tions.

Wedgetail co-pilot FLTLT Adam Nelson said the display was “a great opportunity to further strengthen the network between us and our coalition operators, and command and control partners”.

“It was especially good to meet those operating the US Air Force (USAF) E-3 Sentry command and control aircraft, as well as those working within the ‘KingPin’ US Tactical Command and Control Unit. Between us and them, we control all of the airspace over Iraq and Syria,” he said.

FLTLT Nelson said the major-

ity of attendees at the display were USAF personnel who were keen to get a look at the platform they regularly worked with in the air but were yet to see on the ground.

“We’ve not only had E-3 air-crew and KingPin controllers, we’ve also had a lot of operators such as USAF F-22, F-15 and C-17 pilots,” he said.

“When seeing our aircraft inside and up close, the USAF personnel seemed very interested in the technological differences between the RAAF E-7A and the USAF E-3.

“Being a newer aircraft, it means that we have a lot more system integration, leading to a dif-ferent crew operating model. It was good to be able to show the USAF aircrew some of our capabilities and limitations first-hand.”

Sharing in a show and tell

An Air Force Air Task Group E-7A Wedgetail command and control crew member (right), briefs a USAF member on the mission crew consoles used to track airborne and maritime targets.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

Remembering Long TanTHE 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan will be commemorated with events across Australia from August 17-21.

Long Tan was one of the first major battles faced by the Australians in Vietnam.

On August 18, 1966, 105 Australians and three New Zealanders from D Coy, 6RAR, faced between 1500 and 2500 sol-diers from the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong.

Fighting in torrential rain, under a blanket of mist and with limited ammunition, D Coy successfully held back an advancing enemy until extra support arrived. After three hours of relentless and accurate shelling, the enemy retreated.

Eighteen Australians were killed

in the battle and 24 were wounded. The opposing Vietnamese losses were counted in the hundreds, with many more casualties.

A cross stands at the site of the Battle of Long Tan – one of only two foreign memorials in Vietnam – to recognise the Australians who provided enemy forces with medical aid and protected civilians.

To mark the anniversary, an offi-cial reception for Vietnam veterans and their families will be held at Parliament House in Canberra on August 17.

That evening at the Australian War Memorial (AWM), CPL Daniel Keighran, VC, will do the reading and John Schumann will perform I was Only 19 at the Last Post cer-emony.

At 7am on August 18, a stand-to service will be held at the AWM, while a national commemoration will be conducted later that morning at the Australian Vietnam Forces Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra.

At the request of the Vietnamese Government, a low-key ceremony will be held at the Long Tan Cross in Vietnam, with Defence providing a bugler.

The Governor-General will attend a united drumhead service hosted by 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, on August 18.

For more information, visit www.dva.gov.au

Mates march 40km for K9 programAIRCRAFT technician SGT Adrian Borlace completed a 40km pack march along Adelaide’s beaches on July 2 to raise awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder and money for the Operation K9 program. SGT Borlace was joined on the march by his friend and ex-soldier Chad McLaren, who served in East Timor during 2000. Operation K9 uses assistance dogs to boost veterans’ morale and was established as a partnership between the South Australian RSL and the Royal Society for the Blind. The group has placed seven dogs with veterans who satisfied screening and matching requirements. The dogs act as catalysts for human social interactions and may enhance wellbeing. Operation K9 Dogs can also motivate veterans to exercise, which triggers other health benefits. To donate or for more information, go to www.gofundme.com/25rpss24 or www.rsb.org.au/operation-k9

CorrectionsIn the July 28 edition of Air Force News (“Power of five drives our future”, page 3) CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies was quoted incorrectly. The article stated that “19.2 per cent of Air Force personnel were women and 1.1 per cent were indigenous, meaning the service did have the best Australia had to offer.” This should have said: “… the service did not have the best Australia had to offer”.

In the July 14 edition of Air Force News (“New-age horizons”, page 16) Geoff Swanton, an aircraft structural integrity engineer with DST Defence Science and Technology (DST), was misquoted. In the article, Mr Swanton stated a company called RUAG was located in Bayswater, Western Australia. This is incorrect – it is located in Bayswater, Victoria.

For current, past and updated versions of Air Force News, go to www.airforce.gov.au/News/Air-Force-Newspaper

IN BRIEF

5August 11, 2016RCEAIR F News

CPL Bill Solomou

THE centrepiece of the ADF’s new pilot training system – the PC-21 advanced trainer A54-001 – had its first flight from Pilatus’ facility in Stans, Switzerland in July.

Director Air Training Transition Office GPCAPT Chris Hake said the maiden flight of the first of 49 Australian PC-21 air-craft was a milestone or the Air Force, AIR 5428 project and Team 21.

“It was a rewarding moment for all those involved in the AIR 5428 project, including our Team 21 part-ners, Lockheed Martin Australia, Hawker Pacific, Nova Systems and Pilatus. It has been their dil-igence, dedication and teamwork that has led to this successful first flight of the first Australian PC-21,” GPCAPT Hake said.

“This initial flight is only the first step for the ADF as we work with Team 21 to deliver the world’s leading pilot training system.

“A core component of this pilot training system, alongside the advanced flight simulators and

adaptable electronic learning envi-ronment, is the PC-21, and it is already apparent that the dedicated team at Pilatus are performing an outstanding job to deliver our Air Force PC-21 aircraft.”

GPCAPT Hake said he was looking forward to future ADF pilots having the opportunity to fly such an advanced pilot training air-craft in Australia.

“It is the right aircraft and the right pilot training system to pre-pare our young pilots for operations in a fifth generation ADF aviation force,” he said.

With the first undergraduate pilot training course scheduled for early 2019, the PC-21 will prepare pilots to fly advanced aircraft such as the MRH-90 Taipan, the MH-60R Seahawk and the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

SQNLDR Jay Tuffley, one of the first RAAF pilots to qualify on the PC-21, said the first flight of an Australian PC-21 – after only seven months since contract signature –was a remarkable achievement and testament to the professionalism of Team 21.

“Having flown the PC-21, I can say that it is a fantastic aeroplane that is both fast and manoeuvrable, yet free from handling vices,” he said.

“Undergraduate pilots training on this aircraft are going to love fly-ing it,” SQNLDR Tuffley said.

The first Australian PC-21 is wearing the livery that will be used at No.2 Flying Training School (2FTS) in Western Australia.

The national markings are obscured as the aircraft is currently being flown on Swiss registration. In RAAF service, the PC-21 will have the registration designator A-54.

Head of Aerospace Systems in the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group AVM Catherine Roberts congratulated industry part-ners Lockheed Martin and Pilatus Aircraft on the milestone.

“This initial flight only seven months after contract signature rep-resents a significant achievement towards implementing the new pilot training system for the ADF,” AVM Roberts said.

ALL IN TRAIN

Maiden flight of ADF’s PC-21 is a ‘remarkable achievement’

The ADF’s new PC-21 advanced trainer makes

its first flight. Photo: provided by Pilatus

LEUT Andrew Ragless

FLTLT Paul Atteridge called in two of the world’s biggest and fastest rotary wing aircraft when the Navy conducted a world-first trial in July.

During the trial, Canberra class amphibious ship HMAS Canberra recov-ered and launched the US Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft as well as the western world’s largest helicopter, the CH-53E Super Stallion, during flight trials off Hawaii for Exercise Rim of the Pacific (Rimpac).

FLTLT Atteridge is a joint battlefield airspace controller (JBAC) on Canberra and is responsible for coordinating the airspace surrounding the ship and up to 60 miles out.

The MV-22 Osprey is a multi-mission, tiltrotor aircraft, designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter

with the long-range, high-speed perfor-mance of a turboprop aircraft.

The aircraft has a cruising speed of 446km/h at sea level, a range of more than 1600km and the capacity to carry up to 32 troops or 9000kg of internal cargo.

The CH-53E Super Stallion is slower than the Osprey but can carry a staggering 13,600kg of internal cargo, an underslung load of up to 14,500kg or 55 troops with centreline seats installed.

FLTLT Atteridge said the two aircraft were impressive.

“It was the first time a US military air-craft has landed on one of the Navy’s two new landing helicopter docks,” he said.

“Being the first person to talk with them and to get them landing was very cool. I’m pretty sure I can say I’m the only JBAC in the Air Force to get a MV-22 to land on a ship.”

Controller lands the big onesJBAC’s unique role in world-first flight trial

6 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FNews

FLTLT Paul Atteridge in flight control on

HMAS Canberra during Exercise Rimpac.

Photo: AB Steven Thomson

FLTLT Shaun Donnelly

A LAST hurrah for the AP-3C Orion and a key role in the Air Operations Centre were Air Force’s highlights during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (Rimpac), the world’s largest maritime exercise.

GPCAPT David Hombsch, the sen-ior Air Force officer deployed to Hawaii for the exercise and Deputy Combined Forces Air Component Commander, said Australia deployed a number of highly trained and skilled personnel, who performed to a high standard.

“The most visual element is the AP-3C Orion aircraft from No. 11 Squadron, which was here for its final Rimpac,” he said.

“They have integrated into the task element and it shows the high level of interoperability Australians have with multiple international partners.

“Each nation employ their resources for maritime patrol and anti-submarine/anti-surface slightly differently.

“Coming together on an exercise like Rimpac allows the cross-training

and sharing of assets, skills and ideas.”Along with the 11SQN Orions,

Rimpac also employed a detachment of air controllers from 41 Wing, who worked in the Hawaiian Regional Operations Centre at Wheeler Army Air Field.

Air Force air combat officers were also stationed at the Air Operations Centre at Hickam Air Force Base, which was the nerve centre of the air element of Rimpac.

“Rimpac is the largest exercise in the world and Australia has been involved since the exercise began in 1971. We have remained a valued participant ever since,” GPCAPT Hombsch said.

“Australians are embedded in each section and they work seamlessly, inte-grated with US and other nations and forming the close relationships we rely upon when we operate within the region on humanitarian and disaster relief mission.

“Being part of the air element as it progresses through the scenarios is very rewarding.”

Skills on show in seamless exercise

11SQN AP-3C Orions at Marine Corps Base, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, for a sortie as part of Exercise Rimpac.Photo: LS Lee-Anne Mack

7August 11, 2016RCEAIR F News

FLTLT Bettina Mears

A DREAM to have “the ultimate Air Force experience” became a reality for Make-a-Wish Australia recipi-ents Connor and Jason and their families when personnel at RAAF Base Williamtown took them on a VIP tour of the base in July.

After Make-A-Wish sought help from the base to fulfil the boys’ wishes, No. 26 Squadron members tailored a tour program to each boy’s specific requests.

They liaised with Combat

Support Group, Air Combat Group and Surveillance and Response Group units and squadrons on the base to help make their wishes a reality.

The Make-A-Wish program complements medical treatment, bringing joy to sick young people like Jason and Connor, giving them hope and the strength to face the challenges of their illness.

Connor is undergoing treatment for a rare form of brain cancer. He said a love of aviation inspired his

Fighter experience a wish come true

Make-a-Wish beneficiary Connor looks over a Hawk 127 with 76SQN’s FLGOFF Jess Stone and FLGOFF Michael Bowden. Photo: FSGT Craig Sharp

Alex DeValentin

DEFENCE Community Organisation (DCO) has held events across the coun-try to thank the staff, Command and sup-port groups, both past and present, who have helped shape the organisation since it was formed 20 years ago.

For the past two decades, DCO has worked with ADF Command, families and community organisations to develop a strong, connected and resilient Defence community that supports ADF members and their families.

Launched in 1996, DCO brought together the three services’ family sup-port organisations and the Australian Defence Families Information and Liaison staff.

DCO Amberley celebrated the 20th anniversary at the RAAF Amberley Heritage Centre in late July, alongside Command, current and former DCO staff, school transition aides, and repre-sentatives from the Queensland RSL and other support organisations.

DCO Regional Manager Roslyn Munro cut the anniversary cake with RAAF Base Amberley’s temporary SADFO, GPCAPT Martin Smith.

Ms Munro said the DCO services had evolved since 1996.

“Over the years, DCO has provided assistance to families in times of illness, injury, domestic crisis or bereavement,” she said.

Lending a hand for 20 yearsDCO has come a long way since 1996

“It has also developed a broad range of programs and services to help Defence families make the most of the challenges and opportunities provided by the military way of life.”

She said these achievements would not have been possible without the help of civilian and military staff, community groups and stakeholder organisations.

DCO Regional Manager Roslyn Munro cuts the cake with GPCAPT Martin Smith.

FLTLT Nick O’Connor

A GROUP of young people from the upper Hunter Valley got a taste of military life from fast-jet pilots, maintenance staff and firefighters at RAAF Base Williamtown in July.

The base visit was Air Force’s way of saying thank you to the six young men from the Aberdeen Care Package Cadets for their dedication to helping deployed personnel.

Each year the cadets prepare care packages and send them to ADF members throughout the world.

Cadet organiser Carole Johnston said the program had been running for five years and packages were sent to South Sudan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Solomon Islands, Sinai and various deployed Navy ships.

“In 2011, I decided I wanted to send packages to the troops over-seas to show that everyday people care about them. I simply sent them to unnamed recipients at an address I found online,” Ms Johnston said.

“After begging and nagging eve-ryone I came across, I began to get money and goods donated to me. I did 30 packages in that first year, but it became obvious that I could do with a little help.

“It was nearing the end of 2011 that one boy came on board to help me. We did 170 packages that [fol-lowing] year.

“In 2013, slowly and gradually, five other boys came on board with us and we did 242 in 2013.

“As 2014 arrived we decided we were going to need a name to call ourselves. We became the Aberdeen

Care Package Cadets, and in 2015 we managed to send 730 packages.”

Ms Johnston said the program fostered a strong sense of commu-nity service in the young men.

“My aim of gathering the group together was to make our young-sters learn about serving their com-munity, caring for others with no reward, mateship, teamwork, and to emphasise the fact that one person can make a difference,” she said.

Cadet Logan Smith said the visit to RAAF Williamtown was an “awesome” experience.

“It was great to see all the dif-ferent trades and jobs that the Air Force personnel do,” he said.

“Seeing the Hawk up close and sitting in the cockpit was a great experience.”

An ‘awesome’ reward for youngsters who care

Aberdeen Care Package Cadets, accompanied by organiser Carole Johnston, check out a Hawk 127 with 76SQN pilot FLGOFF Sam Thomson.

wish. “I just have a really big inter-est in the Air Force and the military in general and all the technology they get to play with,” he said.

Highlights of the boys’ visit included an aircrew-guided tour of a No. 76 Squadron Hawk 127 lead-in fighter and a ride in an F/A-18 Hornet flight simulator.

Their tours also included visits to the air traffic control tower, the weapons training simulator system, the fire and military working dog sections, and the Fighter World museum.

Base SADFO AIRCDRE Craig Heap said the visit was a special experience not only for the boys but for all personnel involved.

“They are two truly courageous young men who inspired us all with their positive outlook, sheer deter-mination and resolve in the face of great challenges,” he said.

“These are qualities that we, as Air Force personnel, aspire to and admire.”

Jason said the base personnel were great hosts.

“All the Air Force personnel who showed me around on the tour were seriously amazing people. They were clearly super talented, incred-ibly intelligent and also had a great sense of humour. They were just the best,” he said.

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AFTER 67 years of parting hair at RAAF Base Richmond, a dynasty of Brown barbers has parted company with the base.

Greg Brown’s retirement as base barber on July 31 marked the end of an era for the Brown family, who have been lopping locks and trimming whiskers at Richmond since Greg’s father, Ken, opened for business in March 1949.

“A Brown has been cutting hair on RAAF Richmond for 75 per cent of the base’s life,” Greg Brown said.

Mr Brown, who served his apprenticeship under his father, started working full time at the base barbershop in October 1988.

He had detoured into a successful banking career after his apprenticeship but returned to the family business when his father was con-templating retirement.

For thousands of serving members, a visit to the Richmond Barbershop delivered not only a dress manual-approved haircut but also an opportunity to reminisce about events and people at the base.

Mr Brown said he had loved his time on

the base, particularly watching young troops return to Richmond throughout their careers as highly capable leaders and leading profes-sionals.

“I really love the camaraderie that military members show and will miss their friendship and loyalty,” Mr Brown said.

One of his favourite memories was the recurring rumour that the base would be shut-ting down.

“In October 1949, Ken was asked if he would be moving with the base when it goes to Dubbo,” he said.

“I was asked the same question in October 1988, but it seems like the base just keeps surviving.”

The base’s Senior ADF Officer, AIRCDRE Richard Lennon, said the commu-nity would miss Mr Brown.

“There have been a number of enduring institutions at RAAF Base Richmond, and the Brown’s barbershop has undoubtedly been one of them,” he said.

“Having served this community for so long, we wish him every success in a well-earned retirement.”

End of an ‘enduring institution’ as the last in a barbershop dynasty shelves his shavers

Final cut for the Browns

Above: Greg Brown and his wife Lyn on the flight deck of a

C-130J Hercules at Richmond as he says

farewell to the base.Right: Mr Brown gives

AIRCDRE Richard Lennon a haircut for

the last time.Photos: CPL Veronica O’Hara,

CPL David Gibbs

8 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FNews

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9August 11, 2016RCEAIR F News

Leigh Watson

THE importance of leadership from both genders emerged as the strong theme when 150 men and women engaged in a panel discussion of topics relating to Leading Change: Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Industries.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies joined the panel discussion, held in Canberra on July 27 as a fundraiser for the Country to Canberra charity, which helps young rural women to reach their leadership potential.

He spoke frankly and proudly about what Air Force had achieved.

“Our leadership is sparked by having women at every event – at every table we have a decision to make,” he said.

“It’s amazing, not just from a female participation perspective but for diversity more broadly, to have that young LACW at that forum, to have a female AVM to bring the per-spective 20 men can’t have.”

However, AIRMSHL Davies admitted more needed to be done.

“The one thing that needs to change in Air Force is the under-standing that Air Force leadership needs to ask the question different-ly,” he said.

“When we ask, ‘Would you like to have more women in your out-fit?’, that answer is ‘yes’. The lead-ership bit I’m after is how would you get one more woman? It is within our commanders’ ability to demand more women in their work-place and drive that, and show that Air Force is a better place to be.”

Responding to a question about a female CAF, he said there was “no written document anywhere that says a woman can’t be Chief of Air Force, or a logistician, or an engi-neer or an education officer”.

“To date, it’s been largely around our inability to provide a career spectrum that allows an individual to be competent in combat and in peacetime, and the ability to deliver advice to government and CDF.

“We need to identify raw talent, regardless of where it is, for promo-tion opportunity for a broader career earlier. We need to say, ‘I want you to be the Chief in the future. You must have capability development, you must have some operations, must have some personnel. If we give you all of that then you will be considered for the position.’ ”

Liza Maimone, PwC Australia managing partner and panellist, said men needed to embrace change.

LEADING CHANGE

CAF stands up to be counted at a panel that discussed why leadership and risk are needed to achieve diversity

Pulling together to form strong plans

From left, CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies at the Country to Canberra charity fundraiser with other panellists Liza Maimone and Sarah Pearson. Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

FLGOFF Daniel Judas

FIFTEEN personnel from 95 Wing put their planning skills to the test during Exercise Satu Pasukan at the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Base Butterworth.

Hosted by No. 19 Squadron from June 19 to 25, the exercise included personnel from Headquarters 95WG, 3SECFOR, No. 87 Squadron Tactical Intelligence Flight, and Nos. 381 and 382 Contingency Response Squadrons.

The exercise’s name, Satu Pasukan, translates to “one team”, and this was reflected in the way a diverse range of units and specialisations came together to complete mission-analysis activities.

This involved planning for various mission profiles, familiarisation with the location and completing a reconnais-sance of Butterworth and Penang Island.

Executive officer 95WG WGCDR George Hodgson led the team.

“The planning strongly highlighted how all 95WG units work together along with other Air Force units to conduct expeditionary operations,” he said.

“Key considerations included sustain-ment of supply chains and how the local

environment influences an operation. The planning group certainly gained an appreciation of each unit’s strengths and how we can sustain forward operations.”

Operations WOFF Vanessa Schneider said it was important to conduct a recon-naissance of the area.

“It is not until you are on the ground that you identify the challenges faced in an overseas location,” she said.

“It provides a greater appreciation of the environment, climate and cultural differences, and an understanding of the language barriers.”

Force protection officer FLTLT Lee Richards hosted the contingent and pro-vided insight to the ADF’s only perma-nent forward operating base.

Logistics officer FLTLT Chelsea Bulfield said the facilities at Butterworth offered a good foundation from which to provide increased combat support ser-vices for activities in the region.

“Gaining a first-hand appreciation of the Butterworth operating environment will greatly improve our equipment and support planning, leading to more effec-tive deployment of resources to augment existing capabilities,” she said.

Personnel from 95WG on a viewing of the RAAF Butterworth Sports and Recreation Centre during Exercise Satu Pasukan. Photo: FLTLT Sean Daley

CO 28SQN WGCDR Pete Gilbert:

“It was an excellent opportu-nity to listen and interact with a diverse panel and audience regarding the challenges for women in the workforce.

“It was clear that we need to think differently about these challenges, particularly for women working in male-domi-nated environments.

“Understanding these is-sues makes us better leaders.

“From a Command perspec-tive, one of the great avenues to support women in the work-place is to get more men to ac-cess flexible work to assist in meeting family commitments, such as childcare and school.

“Supporting a healthy work-life balance, assists all person-nel to take on an equal share of the dual responsibilities of family and career.”

A CO’s VIEWPOINT

“That needs leadership. Until that is pervasive then change will still take time,” she said.

ACT Woman of the Year and MC for the evening, Amanda Whitley, said there were “few more male-dominated workplaces than Defence and it’s great to see the Chief of Air Force come along”.

“He is obviously demonstrating his commitment towards engaging more women into the service and had lots of fantastic things to say.”

Hannah Wandel , CEO of Country to Canberra and also an APS member of Defence, said the panel was important.

“It was about sparking a con-versation about an important issue – male-dominated industries, why they exist, and, importantly, about finding great solutions to generate change,” she said.

Ms Wandel thanked Air Force for its participation in the fund-raiser.

“This event has funded two extra spots in our Power Trip program, which brings girls to Canberra for leadership training, and seed funding for our new pro-gram to go to rural and remote high schools.

“Air Force support to Country to Canberra sparks an important message to young women that even in male-dominated industries there are men in leadership positions who can be counted on to support and employ you if that’s what you want.”

One attendee, Jana Clyde, of Wisdom Learning, who works at a local Canberra business which is developing a Diploma of Leadership and Management for women, said she was most sur-prised by the frankness of the con-versation.

“The directness of the conver-sation was really surprising,” she said.

10 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FNews

SQNLDR Trevor Grant

HELPING to spruce up a school in Vietnam as part of the ongoing Pacific Partnership aid effort has given an Australian Air Force mem-ber the chance “to get out of the office and get involved in a worth-while project”.

SQNLDR Bernie Reinke, the executive officer for Australian per-sonnel aboard the US Navy hospital ship USNS Mercy, responded to a call for volunteers to join the com-munity relations project, hosted by the ship’s chaplains.

The project, at the Tuong Lai Specialised School in Da Nang, was identified as a worthy commu-nity relations activity for the Pacific Partnership during the ship’s stopo-ver in the port.

Pacific Partnership missions were launched by the US Navy as part of the international response to the Indian Ocean tsunami that devastated parts of South-East Asia in 2004.

Australia was a founding part-ner for the medical, dental, veteri-nary, engineering and humanitarian response activities and training con-ducted in the south-west Pacific and South-East Asia.

The school, which provides an education for 139 special-needs stu-

dents, had a broken gate and needed repainting.

When the call went out for vol-unteers to work alongside the US Navy’s Amphibious Construction Battalion One (ACB-1) and other volunteers at the school, SQNLDR Reinke jumped at the chance to help.

T h e AC B - 1 c r ew l e a d e r, Steelworker Third Class Joshua Kopit, said painting the school was a major undertaking so having the help of the community relations team made the task easier.

“With three floors to paint it was a big job, so we decided to split eve-ryone up into three teams to cover a level each,” he said.

“Having the Aussies and the Japanese here helping out has been awesome.

“They have done a fantastic job and it’s been a lot of fun.”

The project’s organiser, US Navy chaplain David Williams, said the work would benefit the students and the community.

“It also provides outstanding training for the US and partner engi-neers and volunteers,” he said.

More community relat ions events are planned for Malaysia and Indonesia.

A lesson in partnership Aussie takes up his paint brush to help tackle an international aid project

SQNLDR Bernie Reinke works alongside local teacher and interpreter Lily at Tuong Lai Specialised School in Da Nang, Vietnam. Photo: CPL David Cotton

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FeatureRCEAIR F August 11, 2016 11

AIR Force personnel took the chance to learn more about the work of the Army’s para-chute riggers when the trade

celebrated its 50th birthday with an open house at RAAF Base Richmond.

About 200 Air Force and APS members took part in the open house, hosted by 176 Air Dispatch Squadron from July 10 to 13.

The parachute rigger facility is in Richmond’s building 405 – Australia’s largest parachute packhouse – where most cargo and personnel parachutes for the ADF airdrop and airborne capa-bility are serviced.

Visitors included staff from Headquarters Air Mobility Group (AMG) and local Air Force units, Air Force Officer Cadets from ADFA and medical staff from Richmond Health Centre.

Introduced in 1966, parachute

riggers are members of the Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps.

They are required to issue, recover, repair and pack parachutes.

Other equipment used by airborne and airdrop forces, including oxygen bottles, altimeters, metalwork and slings, are also serviced by parachute riggers.

CAPT Jacob Choi, commander of 176 AD SQN’s 39 Aerial Delivery Equipment Maintenance (39 ADEM) Platoon, said parachutes had been a common sight over RAAF Base Richmond for nearly 90 years.

Parachute riggers trade conduc-tor WO1 Craig Robertson said RAAF Base Richmond was the site of the first military parachute jump in May 1926.

“Their use was adopted by Air Force as a life-saving measure. Air Force maintained sole responsibil-ity for parachute rigging until WWII,

when the Australian Army took an active role,” he said.

Sole responsibility returned to the Air Force in the postwar period and during the Malayan Emergency. However the Vietnam War provided the catalyst to form an Army parachute rigger trade.

LCPL Luke Caruso, a 39 ADEM Platoon parachute rigger, said the need for the trade was identified in 1964 and it was established in 1966 to pre-pare cargo parachutes.

“Riggers took responsibility for personnel parachutes in 1969, with Air Force only managing its own crew survival parachutes,” he said.

“In the past 50 years, units like 176 AD SQN have prepared para-chutes that have been used on active operations, including in Iraq and East Timor.”

Today, parachute riggers typically

prepare parachutes for loads and per-sonnel delivered by Air Force’s C-130J Hercules, C-17A Globemaster and C-27J Spartan.

CAPT Choi said the theme of the open house was “Airborne, Airdrop, Air Power” to reflect the joint contri-bution Army parachute riggers have in Air Force missions.

“We have worked closely with Air Force in the past, and we will work closely for the future of Australian air power,” he said.

Air Mobility Group (AMG) chief of staff GPCAPT Stewart Dowrie was among the Air Force personnel who took the tour.

“The amount of work that goes into packing parachutes, cleaning them, drying them and repairing them is just amazing,” he said.

“Then when you see the techni-cal systems that support aerial deliv-

ery, you get a real appreciation of how complex the day to day business is for 176 AD SQN.

“I don’t see green and blue uni-forms when I think of the Air Force’s air mobility and Army’s air dispatch teams – I see a one-team approach working to support the warfighter.”

Also taking the tour was FLGOFF Emily Wilson, OIC Load Control at RAAF Base Richmond’s Air Movements Section.

“Our section works closely with the Army and frequently onload and offload the parachutes packed and managed by 39 ADEM Platoon,” she said.

“We felt it was a great opportunity to expose our members to the high-ly skilled work involved in ensuring those parachutes safely ground people and Air Force assets.”

Our part in the parachute riggers’ 50-year history is something for us to celebrate, Eamon Hamilton writes

WE DROP IN ON THE PARTY

Parachute riggers from 39 ADEM Platoon jump from an Air Force C-17A Globemaster near RAAF Base Richmond.Inset: Air Force members and other ADF personnel learn about what goes on in the free-fall packing area from rigger CPL Zach McLeod during the open day.Photos: CPL Oliver Carter

12 13RCEAIR FCentrepiece August 11, 2016

AT THE POINTY END IN THE TOP ENDOur largest training exercise, Pitch Black, is in full swing in the

Northern Territory, involving about 2500 personnel and 115 aircraft from 10 countries. Pitch Black allows Air Force to put its high-end warfighting skills to the test alongside the Army and

international partners in realistic air and air-land scenarios.

RAAF Base Darwin personnel await the

arrival of an Indonesian Air Force aircraft. Photo: CPL Casey Gaul

An Air Force F/A-18A Hornet receives pre-flight

checks at RAAF Base Darwin.

Photo: CPL Casey Gaul

Right: LAC Nitin Naidu, from 36SQN, strips

electrical wire for a plug with the help of Master

Sergeant Taylor from the USAF.

Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Left, handler ACW Darcy Meredith-Vincent, from 2SECFOR, and her military working dog Vexy have a break on the flightline at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Personnel from Air Movements wait to unload a CN-235 from the French Air Force at RAAF Base Darwin.Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Australian F/A-18A Hornets, US and Indonesian F-16s, and Singaporean F-15s prepare to take off for the morning’s sortie at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

To stay up to date, click through to the Pitch Black page from the Air Force homepage at www.airforce.gov.au

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FeatureRCEAIR F August 11, 2016 15

BEFORE talented airmen can sniff out enemy transmissions across the electromagnetic spectrum, they must pass

through the Defence Force School of Signals’ Electronic Warfare Wing at Borneo Barracks, Cabarlah.

The triservice wing trains person-nel in signals intelligence and elec-tronic warfare, focusing on collection, analysis and reporting skills.

This forms a very important part of the intelligence cycle.

Airmen and sailors undertake the

ADF collection operator course while the wing also runs initial training and promotion courses for Army’s elec-tronic warfare operators.

Personnel from all services can be selected for the wing’s technical sig-nals, intelligence and reporting course.

About 70 staff help train roughly 450 students on 22 courses at the wing each year.

CPL Mitchell Monteith instructs trainee linguists on the collector opera-tor course, but it is not the kind of chit-chat you would hear at the pub.

“We instruct a very specific, mil-itary-based target language here,” he said.

“The course is extremely difficult overall. It’s very demanding, with about two hours of homework in their own time daily.”

Most of the course centres on ana-lysing signals and reporting on them.

CPL Monteith said trainees need-ed initiative because there was little hands-on work during the course.

“They need a high rate of typing and a range of analytical skills. The

base-level job is a lot of office work, but it is very mentally demanding,” he said.

“They need to push themselves, but we’ve been fortunate in that we don’t often need to crack the whip to get them going.”

Instructors at the wing are given a lot of scope to develop and improve the courses during their posting.

“My section’s just finished devel-oping the course we are running now,” CPL Monteith said.

“It was titled something else and

run in a very different manner, so we did a lot of redevelopment work last year that was signed off. Our students have a lot of input and we take that on board to make things smoother.”

The redevelopment wasn’t the only adjustment the courses needed.

“We’re updating the course mul-tiple times a week and it’s based on events that occur throughout the world,” he said.

“Things happen and we need to factor them in to what we’re training our students for.”

Gaining proficiency in signals intelligence means conquering a whole new language, CPL Max Bree reports

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Electronic Warfare Wing linguistic instructor CPL Mitchell Monteith, right,

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History RCEAIR F August 11, 201616

SGT Dave Morley

IF YOU enlisted in the ADF from in or around Wagga Wagga and have served in a theatre of conflict, Wagga RSL sub-branch wants to

hear from you.RSL spokesman Dave Gardiner

said the sub-branch had started a pro-ject to update the city’s honour rolls, which had not been done for about 40 years.

“Serving members should apply to have their names recorded in honour of serving their country, even though they may well serve in future campaigns,” he said.

“Generations to come will be able to pay their respects, especially their children, in the same way we currently do to those who went before us. It also forms a part of one’s family history.”

Mr Gardiner said he already had 13 confirmed names and was waiting on another eight to return their applica-tion forms.

“So far, many of these names have been obtained by word of mouth, and we have an advertisement on the wall

of the current honour roll from which we have received some response,” he said.

“The names will be listed under the campaigns in which they served and some names may appear more than once. I believe there must be heaps more over 40 years.”

The Wagga RSL sub-branch will be applying to DVA for a grant for this project following receipt of a quote from a sign writer.

Mr Gardiner said the sub-branch was looking at a closing-off date of December 31, with the names being unveiled before Anzac Day 2017.

“It’s important to get the names in now as it may be a long time before a name is added to the roll after this pro-ject is completed,” he said.

“We want to try to avoid members coming out of the woodwork after we have the new rolls up on the wall.

“The names will be placed on brass plaques so there is no real way to add to the existing plaque except by replacing the whole thing or placing another plaque out of order.”

WAGGA Wagga’s Victory Memo-rial Gardens are located on the banks of the Wollundry Lagoon in the city’s CBD.

The land was originally the site of a NSW police barracks and a paddock, where the police horses were kept, but was trans-formed for public recreation in February 1931.

In 1925 the Wagga Wagga Municipal Council planned a tribute to those who fought and died in WWI.

A memorial hall, to be added to the council chambers, was

suggested but public preference was for gardens.

A public competition for the design was won by Thomas Kerr, the chief landscape gardener of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney, and work on the gar-dens started in 1928.

A proposal for a memorial arch to honour volunteer soldiers from 1916 gained momentum when diggers began returning home.

Although a cenotaph, which still stands in the gardens today, had been built earlier in 1922,

the plan to construct a monu-mental archway entrance to the memorial gardens arose in 1925.

The Victory Memorial Gar-dens Arch was officially unveiled amid great fanfare on Anzac Day 1927 by MAJGEN Charles Cox, a light horse veteran of the Boer War and WWI.

Individual memorials to Navy, Army, Air Force, the Sandakan Death March, Vietnam and Na-tional Servicemen also feature around the gardens.

THE PAST BEHIND THE MEMORIAL ARCH

A matter of honourWagga RSL to update war memorial

Wagga RSL sub-branch is on a mission to update the city’s honour roll at the Victory Memorial Gardens.

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17August 11, 2016RCEAIR F Personnel

THE value of dogs to the wellbeing of many former and current Defence mem-bers and their families has been recog-nised with a sausage-sizzle fundraiser for the Young Diggers Dog Squad.

The event, at Russell Offices in Canberra, raised money for and aware-ness of the support service.

The trained dogs not only provide assistance to individuals but also help their families to boost their loved ones’ morale and wellbeing.

Assistance dogs are trained to be “partners” to former and current mem-bers who are on a recovery trail, or to improve the quality of their daily life. Welfare dogs are trained to raise morale and welfare in workplaces.

Air Force Chaplaincy supports and promotes the use of welfare and assis-tance dogs in the workplace.

DG CHAP-AF AIRCDRE Kevin Russell said the dogs were often great

ice-breakers, opening up the channels of communication.

“Both welfare and assistance dogs are therapeutic. You can really see how hav-ing these types of dogs in the workplace can really assist either the individual or the group in raising the spirits and morale of people at work as well as actu-ally getting people to talk,” he said.

“When people can focus on the dog they can feel more relaxed and might want to stop and have a chat.”

One of the beneficiaries, SGT Lachlan Armfield, said his dog, Blue Jane, was mostly accepted everywhere.

“You just have to educate people sometimes on what type of dog she is, but most people are pretty understand-ing,” he said.

He said he took comfort in Blue Jane’s constant calming company. “She’s like my best friend.”

FLTLT Daniel Phillips

THE 2016 Personnel Performance Report (PPR) period winds up on September 30 and the question on many lips is: “What do I need to do?”

There is an abundance of infor-mation on the Personnel Branch (Air Force) intranet site on what needs to be done with the new report.

The Personnel Performance System (PPS) link contains resourc-es, frequently asked questions, pol-icy information and links to PPS advisers.

The PPR Guidance Booklet (found through the PPS Policy and Guidance tab) is a comprehensive breakdown of each component of the PPR (form number AE519).

PPS manager SQNLDR Justin Cox said most members should have completed their initial goal set-ting and self-assessment review by now.

The goal setting and self-assessment are covered in Part 2 (Performance Development) of the report and allow the member

and assessor to agree, discuss and review the member’s goals for the period.

At the end of the reporting peri-od (after first removing the digital signatures at the end of Part 2) the assessor clicks on the “yes” but-ton to indicate that it is ‘the end of the reporting period’, selects the number of days observed.

This is sent to the member so they can acknowledge that they were debriefed, and then the process moves on to Part 3 (Performance Assessment).

Part 3 requires a rating and nar-rative for 12 specific performance criteria derived from the Air Force values.

Before beginning the narratives, assessors can use the Comparative Performance Criteria contained on the PPS site (and in the AE519) as a guide for what to look for across all ranks.

In Part 3, the only difference between a full and abridged PPR is that the abridged version does not have assessment ratings.

The Resources tab on the PPS site has examples of good and bad

PPRs that members and assessors can refer to.

A good example articulates what the member did, what they achieved and what they demonstrated (called the DAD principle).

This provides sufficient, relevant and reliable information to best sup-port the member’s career.

SQNLDR Cox said using the DAD principle was important as it better described how the member performed.

The PPS site also provides video examples to assist with interview techniques and ways to provide feedback to the PPS team.

S Q N L D R C o x s a i d t h e important thing to remember was that the PPS was there to “assist in honest conversations about members’ careers”.

“Under the remit of the PPS, establishing professional rapport is key to enabling honest conversa-tions, which leads to accurate PPR reporting and reliable HR data that supports HR decision making and improves Air Force capability,” he said.

A step-by-step guide for assessors when writing narratives for performance criteria:

Step 1: Refer to the PPR Per-formance Criteria.

Step 2: Write contextual evi-dence against each criterion (noting the 500-character limit) using the DAD principle – what the assessed member Did, what that Achieved, what that Demonstrated in the perfor-mance dimension.

Step 3 (only if 50+ observed days): Overlay the Compara-tive Performance Criteria.

Step 4 (only if 50+ observed days): Assign the most suit-able assessment rating, which reflects the step 2 evidence. The assessment ratings to choose from are: Above rank or Exceeds expectations – consistently achieves exceptional results that significantly exceed ex-pectations in this performance dimension.

At rank or Meets expecta-tions – achieves results that meet and sometimes exceed expectations in this perfor-mance dimension.Developing – progressing well with meeting the expectations of this performance dimension. Some improvement and/or de-velopment required to consist-ently achieve expectations.Below rank or Below expec-tations – observed perfor-mance does not meet most ex-pectations in this performance dimension.

Wagging tails give morale a boost

The DAD talk says it bestProfessional rapport and honest conversations are key to the accurate appraisal of members’ performances

HOW TO TELL THE FULL STORY

Blue Jane with, from left, CHAP Kevin Russell,

SGT Lachlan Armfield and AVM Mel Hupfeld at the fundraiser for Young

Diggers Dog Squad. Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

INTERESTED in embracing gender diversity in Air Force? If so, organ-isers of the Gender Conference in Canberra want to hear from you by August 15.

Air Force will hold the confer-ence from September 12 to 13 and the theme will be “The difference I bring is the value I add”.

SQNLDR Amanda Gosling said men and women from all ranks and employment groups were encouraged to submit an expression of interest by August 15 through the Directorate of Workforce Diversity webpage.

“The conference will provide

Hear from champions of change

opportunities to hear about gender diversity in the Air Force, discuss case studies and learn from some champions of change on how they are making changes in their work-places,” SQNLDR Gosling said.

She said there was no fee to attend the conference, but the cost of travel, incidentals and accommo-

dation were the responsibility of the attendee’s parent unit.

For more information, contact SQNLDR Gosling at airforce.genderprograms@defence.gov.au; to register visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/raaf/DWD/WomensForum/Pages/Womens-Forum-2016.aspx

From left: LACW Bronwyn Mullins, PTE Kayla Skinner and CPL Tobi Fischer embrace the gender diversity principle at an International Women’s Day exhibition. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

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18 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FDefence Aviation Safety

AFTER six years of testing that simulated more than 60,000 flying hours of opera-tional use, the international

C-130J-30 Hercules Wing Fatigue Test Program has come to a metal-splitting conclusion.

The program was managed by Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group (MADG) in Cambridge, UK, with oversight by the Royal Air Force, RAAF engineers and scientists from the Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group.

As Air Force transitions to a global convention on airworthiness, the result has been described as a “Herculean” step towards establishing a structural life of type (SLOT) for the C-130J-30 Hercules operating under Air Force-representative flying conditions.

DST Group’s Robert Ogden said the group’s scientists were embed-ded in MADG during the program “in order to take advantage of the signifi-cant DST Group experience in per-forming structural fatigue tests”.

“These staff, complemented by

the placement of Air Force engi-neers, served to enhance and protect Australian interests in this complex and expensive program,” he said.

“With the fatigue-testing phase of the program now complete and the focus switching to structural teardown, inspection and subsequent test inter-pretation, there is much work to be done in translating test findings.

“However, it is clearly evident that the accumulation of two operational lifetimes and demonstration of residual strength proves it is a highly durable structure that should realise significant financial and capability-based benefits for the ADF.

“Ultimately, the realisation of such outcomes will owe considerable debt to the world-class aircraft structural integrity science, engineering over-sight and leadership provided by the Air Force and DST Group staff who have supported this international col-laborative structural test program.”

SQNLDR Aaron Jozelich, the final liaison officer in the UK and responsi-ble for overseeing the residual strength

Air Force will adopt Defence Aviation Safety Regulations in September. In the first of a series, Barrie Bardoe reveals how an exhaustive program tested the mettle of the durable Hercules

FAR FROM WINGING IT

A Hercules wing is put to the fatigue test.

testing phase, said the Wing Fatigue Test Program continued a long line of successful collaborations between DST Group and the Air Force in air-craft fatigue testing.

“We’re looking forward to the arti-cle arriving at RAAF Richmond in

coming months so we can complete the structural teardown and implement test outcomes across the C-130J-30 maintenance program,” he said.

Mr Ogden said such structural test programs also provided “a wealth of data and opportunity to push the

boundaries regarding the science of aircraft structural integrity”.

“Such opportunities will further serve to enhance Defence and indus-try capability in supporting airworthi-ness management of current and future Defence force platforms.”

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19August 11, 2016RCEAIR F Plan Jericho

FLTLT Stevie Angel

DEFENCE, industry and academ-ics are working together to test and explore practical ways of acquiring and sustaining capability.

Using the Acquisition Sprint pro-cess, co-design teams work on under-standing an Air Force capability or acquisition problem and propose inno-vative solutions.

WGCDR Alison MacCarthy said the Acquisition Sprint was designed to achieve theme three of Plan Jericho – “change the way we acquire and sus-tain capability”.

“The Acquisition Sprint methodol-ogy encourages teams to use creative approaches to problem solving, from the initial stage of understanding what Air Force needs, through to the pro-curement and introduction into service of a capability,” she said.

“Our first Acquisition Sprint is developing prototypes to deliver an automatic dependent surveillance broadcast capability for the Hawk lead-in fighter.”

The first phase consisted of a four-day Innovation Scrum, facilitated by the University of Technology Sydney, in June to reframe the problem and encourage innovative solutions from industry.

A small number of suppliers will shortly be selected to test and refine their proposed solutions during the subsequent prototyping phase, before presenting a final prototype for evalua-tion by Defence in early 2017.

Stephen Mallett

COMMANDER Combat Support Group (CSG) AIRCDRE Scott Winchester has inspected a fuel recycling initiative at RAAF Base Williamtown that will save Defence millions of dollars into the future.

The driver behind the improve-ment is OIC Mechanical Equipment Operations Maintenance Section (MEOMS) Rob Williams, who is a champion of Continuous Improvement (CI) reform at No. 26 Squadron.

Essentially, 26SQN will recycle up to 98 per cent of fuel samples at the Aviation fuel farm rather than have this fuel removed as waste.

CSG is now working with Estate and Infrastructure Group and Fuels Services Branch to replicate this work across Air Force’s other aviation fuel farms.

“I applaud the achievements of the 26SQN team to recognise improve-ment opportunities in air base capabil-ity delivery and proactively implement fuel recycling changes to realise cost savings,” AIRCDRE Winchester said.

The Air Force Improvement (AFI) program of work provided the founda-tions for CSG with governance, busi-ness planning, a holistic capability approach to performance measurement and CI.

Moving into the next phase of

Innovation and Improvement (I2), CSG initiated the Air Base mapping project to capture the broad functional requirements to deliver Air Base out-comes, and through the endeavours of a professional workforce, updated the CI register with numerous issues for further analysis and rectification as well as opportunities for improvement.

OC 96 Wing GPCAPT Martin Smith said the collective team approach to “tackling difficult air base problems is the foundation to achiev-ing CSG Jericho initiatives through a learn-by-doing culture”.

Continuous improvement is one element of reform and CSG actively uses the Combat Support Improvement Board, which convenes six times a year, to synchronise strategic ini-tiatives identified in the CSG Strategic Plan – this is underpinned by unit busi-ness plans for strategic alignment.

“The key to realising benefits is reinforcing mission first, safety and governance always, embracing CI and reinforcing the New Horizon culture,” AIRCDRE Winchester said.

The core elements of I2, including robust program governance, strategic alignment through business planning, an embrace of CI culture and a holistic approach to performance metrics, will allow CSG to achieve the required out-comes of Plan Jericho.

A Sprint to the futureFuelling initiative

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LACW Tegan Ahwong, an aviation refueller from 27SQN, checks readings at RAAF Base Townsville during Exercise Talisman Saber. Photo: LACW Nicci Freeman

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22 August 11, 2016RCEAIR FHealth & Fitness

CPL Sebastian Beurich refuses to run out of puff on his quest to quit smoking

Try not to give up giving up

EARLIER this year, I wrote two columns about my quest to quit smoking. Three months on, let’s look at the progress I’ve made

and the setbacks I’ve encountered.The hardest part was the first week. I

wore a nicotine patch each day and was chomping on nicotine gum every hour, but, with a strong mindset, the desire for a cigarette slowly decreased.

I stopped chewing the gum every hour and by the end of the first week, I didn’t even need to chew it any more.

By the middle of week two, I felt confident I didn’t need the patches, so I stopped wearing them during the day. But I kept a liner of gum with me, just in case.

In my first column I spoke of quit-ting for a month and a half in 2014. It seems a month and a half is my barrier, because that’s how long I lasted this time.

I was sitting on the couch at home, watching a movie, when the cravings hit. I hadn’t even thought about having a cigarette for a month.

No big deal, I thought. I’d worked through the cravings before and I would do it again.

However, the craving seemed to last for an hour or more.

I had the option of grabbing a piece of nicotine gum from the liners I still had in the drawer. But, unfortunately, I didn’t.

“Just one pack of cigarettes, then I’ll get back on the horse,” I told myself.

The problem was, I hadn’t realised I was due to fly out to Adelaide for Exercise Hamel the next week.

As everyone knows, you never try to quit when you are in the field.

So one pack of cigarettes turned into many – slipping into old habits was easier than I would have liked.

Now, it’s time to start the process

If you lapse into old smoking habits …

Don’t despair. Plan another date to quit as soon as possible.

Most people who have quit smoking for good have made several serious attempts.

It may take you a while to learn to be a non-smoker.

Although you may be feeling disappointed, you should take pride in what you have achieved.

Every day you spend smoke-free makes your body healthier and helps to break your habit and weaken your addiction.

If you need help to try quitting again …

• Call the Quitline advice and counselling service on 137848.

• Try Quit Coach, a free interactive online tool to help you with a personalised quitting plan: www.quitcoach.org.au/

• See your GP for advice and support.

From the Australian Government’s Quitnow website: www.quitnow.gov.au

The only failure in stamping out the smokes is the failure to try.Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

again. I’ve been waiting for the “right time” to quit, but unfortunately, the “right time” is a rare thing.

As the saying goes: there’s no time like the present.

DON’T SWEAT THE SETBACKS

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23August 11, 2016RCEAIR F Sp rt

CPL Bill Solomou

ALLEY-OOPS, fast breaks and three-pointers to the max were on show at ADFA during the 2016 ACT/Wagga Interservice Basketball Tournament.

Mixed teams of men and women representing the Air Force, Navy, Army, ADFA and RMC competed in a round-robin event from July 30 to 31.

The tournament aimed to select play-ers for men’s and women’s teams to rep-resent ACT/Wagga at the 2016 Australian Defence Force Basketball Association’s Combined Services Championships, to be held at RAAF Base Edinburgh from November 25 to December 4.

The tournament final was played between the combined Navy/Air Force team and Army.

Army’s size and height dominated the fast-paced game, as it set up a first half lead and eventually won by 26 points, 56-30.

Air Force was represented in the final by FLGOFF Brendan Adam, SGT Peter Goff and AC Brett Leddy.

FLGOFF Adam said they tried to stop the “bigs” on the inside – with some success.

“PO Kristie Cotton and AC Brett Leddy lead the charge, however, Army went to the outside and replied with three three-pointers, which hurt us,” he said.

“We replied with some great defen-sive stops from SGT Peter Goff, some

much-needed offensive push from PO James Lee and PO Oxley, but that was not enough to stop the Army.”

The minor places were fought out between ADFA and RMC with ADFA winning by 26 points.

LEUT Kirsti Burtenshaw

AIR Force’s SGT Brooke Saunders has forgotten what is like to have time to herself.

However, that is a sacrifice she and teammates CAPT Alisha Hewett and CPL Mollie Gray are prepared to make to achieve their dreams of serving their country not only as members of the ADF, but also as part of the Australian Rugby Union women’s team, the Wallaroos.

As captain, SGT Saunders is integral to both the Air Force and ADF women’s rugby union teams.

The dynamic second rower, an air-craft engineer at RAAF Base Amberley, was selected to train for the Wallaroos’ squad after a stellar performance at the ARU Nationals in Sydney, where the ADF women’s team competed admirably.

On August 24, the squad will go into an intensive training camp at Bond Uni-versity, Queensland, where the numbers

will be whittled down to a final team to travel to New Zealand later this year.

SGT Saunders, known to her mates as “Chooka”, is doing everything she can to ensure she and her teammates are in a good position to make it through the cull.

“Training and playing with women of this calibre is a whole other ball game than club or service rugby,” she said.

“It will be a full-on week and Alisha, Mollie and I will have to be at our abso-lute best to make the final cut. We are fortunate that the ADF supports us and has provided a solid foundation for us to be in the best physical and mental shape we can be.”

The final squad of about 26 will then travel to Auckland to play one friendly match and two tests against the New Zealand Black Ferns at Eden Park.

You can follow the Wallaroos on the ARU website, and ADF Rugby Union, including its ARU achievements, on Facebook/ADFRugby

Late entrants dig for medalsSurprise factor pays off after last-minute decision to playCPL Sebastian Beurich

GENERALLY, if a team drops into a competition at late notice, they don’t expect to do well, let alone take away the gold and silver med-als.

The ADF men’s and women’s Volleyball teams did exactly that at the Queensland Volleyball State Championships on July 30 and 31.

The men’s team remained unde-feated throughout the competition to win gold against the previous year’s champions, Redlands, in three sets, 17-25, 25-21,15-7.

The women took silver after remaining undefeated until the grand-final, which they lost in three sets, 25-21, 23-25,11-15

ADF Volleyball Association (ADFVA) treasurer and women’s captain CAPT Jen O’Brien said the late entry to the competition worked in the team’s favour.

“It’s a strong tournament, with the top teams from across Queensland participating, and we were largely unknown to the com-petition,” she said.

“We definitely weren’t expect-ing to perform as well as we did. Both of the teams were challenged throughout the tournament so it

was a great experience for all those involved.”

“We had a number of rookies on both teams who performed really well throughout the competition. Overall, it was a successful tourna-ment with great results.”

Both the men’s and women’s teams spent the week before the tournament training at Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane.

“The men’s and women’s team coaches developed an intense train-ing program with the aim of bring-ing the teams together in a short amount of time,” CAPT O’Brien said.

“You cannot rely on one per-son in volleyball, it really is a team effort, so team integration is vital.

“We focused on game play and drills throughout the week, includ-ing a few practice games against a local club.

“There were also some team-building activities, including a volleyball-specific strength, condi-tioning and mobility development session with the PTIs.”

No. 65 Squadron’s LAC Scott Roberts said the training had a posi-tive impact on the men’s team.

“It takes a while to get to know everyone on the team, how they

play and how they set the ball. The training was definitely needed so we could start playing together as a team,” he said.

“The other teams in the competi-tion were good – they were quite competitive and probably more consistent, because they had played together for longer.

“Getting the gold medal is a pretty good achievement. I was qui-etly confident we would perform at a high standard, so it’s good to be validated.”

The ADFVA is holding its national combined services tourna-ment at Enoggera Barracks from November 25 to December 4, where the state combined services teams will be competing. There will also be a beach competition and an adaptive seated volleyball competi-tion during the week.

The 2017 ADF national teams will be selected from the com-bined services tournament, and the ADFVA aims to enter both teams in the 2017 New Zealand Club Championships.

To get involved in ADF volleyball contact RAAF Volleyball representatives CPL Hayley Slaven or CPL Trevor Connell on the DRN.

LAC Scott Roberts spikes the ball for the ADF team during the Queensland State Championships in Brisbane. Photo: SGT Christopher Dickson

Falling short but still standing tall

Air Force’s SGT Peter Goff dribbles into position during the ACT/Wagga Interservice Basketball competition. Photo: CPL Bill Solomou

Keen to make the cut

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Surprise wins the

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P23

SET TO POUNCEInterservice basketball

PAGE 23

AC Brett Leddy gets into position for the combined RAAF/Navy team during the ACT/Wagga Interservice Basketball Tournament at ADFA on July 30-31.Photo: CPL Bill Solomou