P14-15 FFIRE FORIRE FOR EEFFECTFFECT · P14-15 P33 FFIRE FORIRE FOR EEFFECTFFECT ... Capital Fine Print. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed

Cpl

Mar

k W

atso

n

Edition 1246 October 14, 2010

Cp

CCCCl lM

ark

Wat

sooonnnn

Assault tactics: LCpl Shaun Harper, 3RAR, targets an enemy position as a part of a micro fire-team platoon attack during Combined Arms Training Activity 10 at the Townsville Field Training Area.Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

SEEPAGES 22-23

MFO PROFILE

P3

TRIBUTE PLAYED

PM VISITS

P14-15

P33

FIRE FORFIRE FOREFFECTEFFECT

Impressive display of Impressive display of firepower from 3 Bdefirepower from 3 Bde

2 NEWS Army October 14, 2010

DirectorRod Horan: (02) 6265 4650

EDITORIALActing EditorAntony Underwood: (02) 6266 7609Chief of StaffGraham McBean: (02) 6265 1161Reporters:Sgt Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614Cpl Zenith King: (02) 6265 2151AB Melanie Schinkel: (02) 6265 2427Sydney photographer:Bill Cunneen: 0402 155 220

NOTE: The best person to contact if you have a story idea is the Chief of Staff

CONTACT USEmail: [email protected]: (02) 6265 6690Mail: The Editor, Army, R8-LG-044, Department of Defence, ACT 2600Web site: www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews

ADVERTISINGManagerTim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or 0414 552 667Email: [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONSPhone: (02) 6266 7607Email: [email protected]

DISCLAIMERArmy is published fortnightly by Defence Newspapers. It is printed under contract by Capital Fine Print. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Army. Every advertisement is subject to Directorate of Defence Newspapers approval and the Directorate of Defence Newspapers may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form which is not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence Newspapers. The fact that an advertisement is accepted for publication does not mean that the product or service has the endorsement of the Department of Defence or Army.

The Soldiers’ Newspaper

Old hand: Cpl Mark Watson is on his fourth overseas operation, this time with the Timor Leste Aviation Group as an aircraft loadmaster.

Face of Army

Army online

http://www.army.gov.au/

http://www.facebook.com/TheAustralianArmy

http://www.twitter.com/AustralianArmy

http://www.youtube.com/ADFMedia

http://www.flickr.com/photos/AustralianArmy

Secdet comes homeSIXTY-FIVE soldiers from the ADF’s Secdet 16 have returned home to Brisbane after their successful rotation to Iraq.

The soldiers from 2/14LHR (QMI) were deployed as part of Operation Kruger, the ADF’s contribution to the provision of security and support for the Australian embassy and its staff in Baghdad.

The Enoggera-based soldiers were welcomed home by family and friends.

Chief of Joint Operations Lt-Gen Mark Evans commended OC Secdet 16 Maj Allan Hamley and his soldiers who completed more than 1400 diplo-matic tasks, more than 40,900 personnel searches and about 2800 vehicle search-es during their deployment.

“Secdet 16 has continued to dem-onstrate the professionalism, flexibility and dedication to duty which Australian soldiers are renowned for,” Lt-Gen Evans said.

“I commend Maj Hamley and his detachment for their tireless efforts pro-viding effective security for Australia’s diplomatic mission and their interaction with Iraqi and Coalition forces, further enhancing Australia’s reputation in the international community.”

Maj Hamley said the strong relation-ships his soldiers had established with the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) enabled them to complete their mission with the full support of the host nation.

“The ISF have made noticeable improvements in Baghdad. Our soldiers’ adaptability enabled Secdet 16 to tailor its procedures to not only comply with, but fully support their vision,” Maj Hamley said.

“The uncertain security situation sur-rounding the Iraqi elections provided a good test of Secdet 16’s ability to under-take a demanding security task in a com-plex and dangerous environment.”

The next security detachment, Secdet 17, drawn from Darwin-based units, has deployed to Iraq and contin-ues to provide security support to the Australian embassy through protecting government officials, visitors and other staff.

Thirty-five ADF personnel will help provide embassy security, as responsi-bility for this task is passed to private contractors.

RECENTLY announced changes to vet-ting protocols will see all future ADF recruits cleared to secret (negative vetting 1) during their recruit training.

The changes were announced following the October 1 launch of the Government’s new centralised vetting agency, the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA), and aim to streamline vetting processes for ADF members.

Head of AGSVA vetting Peter Sinfield said the new procedures made life easier for recruits.

“Previously, ADF recruits were cleared to restricted and then later upgraded to meet operational requirements,” Mr Sinfield said.

“The new protocol avoids the need for them to undergo two clearance processes.”

“And for current ADF members not yet cleared to secret, Defence intends to sys-tematically upgrade all restricted clearances over the coming years. This process will be driven by AGSVA.”

The changes to recruit vetting protocols are just one of the benefits arising from the launch of the agency.

AGSVA will also use IT innovations to speed up vetting processes, reducing much of the existing paperwork.

“We’re providing access to all the secu-

rity clearance forms (e-packs) on the inter-net (AGSVA website) and intranet (DRN). Previously these were only available from the DRN,” Mr Sinfield said.

“We’re also developing systems so that changes to personal details can be made online.

“This means service personnel will have the flexibility to complete their clearance forms, update their personal details and report any changes in personal circumstanc-es 24/7 from home or work.

“In addition, you will now only be asked to prove your identity once, instead of hav-ing to repeat the process every time your clearance comes up for review.”

AGSVA, run out of the Defence Security Authority is responsible for managing personnel security clearances across the Commonwealth.

It has a customer base of around 300 agencies – of which Defence is one – and expects to process around 48,000 clearance actions a year.

General vetting enquiries can be directed to the AGSVA Client Service Centre on 1800 640 450 or by email to [email protected]

Further information is available on the AGSVA website www.defence.gov.au/agsva

Well done: Commander JTF633 Maj-Gen John Cantwell presents troops from Secdet 16 with medals and commendations in Baghdad. Photo by Sgt Neil Ruskin

All clear on new vetting procedures

Welcome back: OC Secdet 16 Maj Allan Hamley is greeted by his wife and son at Brisbane Airport (above) as a US soldier says goodbye to an Aussie friend before departure (above right). Photos by Cpl Kim Allen and Sgt Neil Ruskin.



Career OpportunityBecome a Military ReporterARMY Newspaper is now taking applica-tions from soldiers interested in becoming a Military Reporter.

Army Newspaper reporters cover the whole gamut of Australian Defence Force activi-ties from peace keeping and humanitarian operations to exercises and war fighting operations.

Applicants should be fully-qualified corpo-rals or have completed the Junior Leaders’ Course and be AIRN compliant.

For more information contact:

Chief of StaffGraham McBeanPhone (02) 6265 1161, or email [email protected]

Phone QPS and see for yourself.You can have a great lifestyle and with a little commitment and the

right investment strategy create wealth and security for the long termNOW

PHONE NOW ON 1800 155 611

LOTTO WINNERS? QPS Investor10 years

QPS Investor3 years

5 investment houses 2 investment houses

We’re a and we use QPS Investment Group to purchasequality residential property in high capital growth areas.

QPS makes it easy. You can do the same.

Military family

QPS INVESTORS

you don’t have to be wealthy to invest...but you do have to invest to be wealthy!

We love dealing with QPS because:

QPS offers a Rent Protection Plan andleaseback options up to 15 years, givingus peace of mind.

QPS can also recommend reliablesolicitors for you.

QPS takes care of everything from theinitial purchase, including arranging thebest possible finance, plus all ongoingmanagement. It really is a set and forgetinvestment.

QPS gives us a free Quantity Surveyor’sReport (worth $600) and helps us toorganise our tax.

QPS sells properties in high capitalgrowth/low rent vacancy areas close toschools, transport and employment hubs.

QPS is a Corporate Member of the PropertyInvestment Professionals of Australia - theyare qualified Property Investment Advisors(QPIA ).®

email: [email protected]

M A (Rick) O’Shea JP (QUAL) QPIA®

Managing Director QPS

Ex RAEME WO2

We’re

NO!NO!

M A (Rick) O’Shea JP (QUAL) QPIA®

Managing Director QPSEx RAEME WO2


NEWS 3 Army October 14, 2010

By Antony Underwood

A SMILING Prime Minister has placed on record the Australian community’s thanks for the work Australian troops are doing in Afghanistan.

On a visit to Multinational Base Tarin Kot, Prime Minister Julia Gillard spoke of the “guts, determination and brav-ery” needed to prosecute the mission on Operation Slipper.

Her visit, which coincided with the AFL grand final replay, follows a visit by new Defence Minister Stephen Smith last month.

“There’s really one word that I come to say to you and that is thank you,” Ms Gillard said during a lunchtime address. “Thank you for everything that you are doing here, thank you for the bravery you’re showing while you do it, thank you for the dedication that you’re show-ing while you do it.

“I know it has been a really hard peri-od, a really hard year, a really hard few months, and we very much value what you are doing here.”

The Prime Minister said the mis-sion in Afghanistan was important to Australia’s national interest.

“The mission is critical to make sure [Afghanistan] does not again become a training ground, a place that sponsors violence and terrorism that is visited on innocent people around the world, but particularly on innocent Australians,” she said.

“We’ve lost too many lives in terrorist attacks and what you are doing is mak-ing sure that this place does not continue to be part of that cycle of terror that has taken the lives of so many Australians.”

Ms Gillard acknowledged the criti-cal task of training the Afghan National Army to enable it to bring security and stability to the country.

“It’s got difficult moments, it’s got days when you can feel the success and progress [and] it’s got its days when you probably feel that progress seems a long way away,” she said.

Referring to the dangerous nature of

the mission, the Prime Minister said: “I know that it does take guts, determina-tion and bravery, and it particularly takes it after a period where you’ve seen so many of your friends and comrades and colleagues fall victim to death in the bat-tlefield.”

As well as meeting soldiers, Ms Gillard met military and political offi-cials in Tarin Kot and Kabul.

Whi le a t Mul t ina t ional Base Tarin Kot she received briefings from Australian commanders, viewed an engi-neer search demonstration and shared a barbecue lunch with Australian service-men and women.

After her address, Ms Gillard was invited to attend a shura (meeting) with key regional Afghanistan government officials and Afghan National Security Force commanders.

Meanwhile, on his first visit as Defence Minister, Mr Smith met two Afghan Government ministers – Interior Minister Mohammadi and Defence Minister Wardak.

“Both ministers underlined the great gratitude of the Afghan Government and Afghan people for the contribu-tion Australia is making to security in Afghanistan,” Mr Smith said.

“They particularly make the point of acknowledging the sacrifice and pain that Australian soldiers, Australian fami-lies and Australia has suffered in recent times with 10 deaths in a few short months.”

He said the Afghan ministers had also told him they highly valued the way in which Australian troops conducted them-selves and believed Australian people mixed well with the Afghan community as they went out of their way to ensure good relations.

“The regard with which our forces are held is not just one of expertise and quality, but of the way they carry them-selves, the way they conduct themselves, and go out of their way to ensure they get on with the local people,” he said.

“That is consistent with the general approach. This is not a conflict which can be won by military force alone.”

Greetings: Prime Minister Julia Gillard meets members of Mentoring Task Force 1 during her visit to Multinational Base Tarin Kot in southern Afghanistan. Photos by Cpl Raymond Vance

PM offers praise for guts and resolve

Lunch chat: The Prime Minister talks with Capt Chris Johnston over lunch at Multinational Base Tarin Kot.

CIVILSKILLSDATASkills in Reserve

Reservists, share your skills with usIf you’re a Reservist, you’ll soon have the opportunity to help the ADF’s Civil Skills Data Team learn more about

you. The CSD collection e-survey starts soon and is your chance to tell us about your civil skills, qualifications and

experience. It will help us to gain a more complete picture of who you are, and it could help your Reserve career

and deployment opportunities. You’ll be paid for completing the e-survey. We’d like you to take part and we’ll

send an information pack to your home address. Watch this space!

To ensure you get the Civil Skills Data information pack, check your address details on PMKeyS.


Army helps with Vic floods

Watery challenge: Sand-bagging at BP Kialla with Gnr Peter Clarke, 53 Fld Bty, School of Arty, working with Justin Wilson of Nunnawading SES.

By Peter Johnson andLt Danielle Perkins

JUST 18 months after providing vital support to emergency services dur-ing the Victorian bushfires, Defence has helped battle floods in northern Victoria.

Defence committed 55 soldiers from 53 Fd Bty, School of Arty, and 10 specialist vehicles, including six Unimogs, after a request from the State Emergency Service on September 5.

Later, more than 50 reservists from Victoria’s 4 Bde Ready Response Force (RRF) took over and pitched in to fill and lay thousands of sandbags when rivers across much of Victoria burst their banks and threatened to inundate homes.

The initial troops were sent to Shepparton to assist with preparing and delivering sandbags, door-knocking and using their vehicles for evacuations if required.

“It was 16 hours between the first phone call warning order on Sunday and having guys on the ground at 0800hrs on Monday,” CO School of Arty Lt-Col Brandon Wood said.

The initial commitment was 48 hours. Because of the expected delay in floodwaters reaching Shepparton, the gunners’ commitment was extended for a further 24 hours until the water levels peaked and an assessment could be made of the extent of flood damage, and subsequent tasks for the SES and other emergency services.

“It was a pretty good turnaround for the School of Artillery, and the communi ty has been very appreciative,” Lt-Col Wood said.

The gunners handed over to 4 Bde RRF on September 9 in what BM 4 Bde Maj Philip Whitehead described as “a seamless transition”.

The 4 Bde commitment is a command-and-control element and 50 members from the RRF. Many of them were involved with Op Vic Fires Assist and helping with this task was “very much within their capability” Maj Whitehead said.

“As reservists a number of them also work in the emergency services field so they bring these skills with them,” he said.

“It was 16 hours between the first phone call warning order on Sunday and having guys on the ground at 0800hrs on Monday”

RRF OC Maj Paul Middleton said two-thirds of the 54-strong group com-prised RRF soldiers, with the rest com-ing from 4 Bde depots across Victoria.

He said the force spent four days in the north-west of the state.

“We were basically tasked with making 12,000 sandbags and laying 4000 of them around the Echuca side of the Murray River,” he said.

“The council reserved about 3000 of the sandbags that we had packed and they and the SES were going to use them to move down the river, to chase the flood as the peak moved further downstream.”

Maj Middleton said the soldiers were happy to lend a hand. “They were stoked to be given the call and given the chance to support the community.”

The flood peak passed through Shepparton on September 8, with con-cern moving to towns further north.

Soldiers concentrated in Shepparton on September 8 before spending the following days travelling between Echuca and Shepparton to assist the emergency services where they could.

After days of concern, the flood peak passed through the region with only minor flooding of homes and properties, although hundreds of people were isolated by the rising water.

Commander of the 53 Bty troops at Shepparton, Maj David Jones, said tasks had included placing sandbags around telecommunications substations and service stations, shoring up a Goulburn River levee bank, confirming locations of residents should evacuation be required, and providing vehicles to help people cross flooded roads.

Tw o s o l d i e r s a s s i s t i n g a t Shepparton, Bdr Paul Gardner and Gnr Steven Field felt an affinity with those affected by the floods.

“I come from a similar area, we have had a lot of floods like this,” Bdr Gardner said.

“It is good to come and support the local community, they need a hand. Everyone was happy to see us.”

Gnr Field said: “We had a few floods when I was younger, I know what people are like in those situations.

“It has been good, it was something different, and it was good to see what the SES and other people do.”

For a FREE � nancial � tness assessment

Call 1300 784 246 or visit www.spect.com.au

Why choose Spectrum as your personal � nancial coach?

Specialist in providing � nancial guidance and direction to Defence Force Personnel.

Longevity with 28 years experience.

Holistic advice covering Defence entitlements, all asset classes, tax considerations, cash� ow and loan structures.

Advice and strategies developed by Chartered Accountants, NOT sales people.

Service driven not product driven.

Ongoing service and advice from your own personal � nancial coach.

Spectrum is a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Registered Tax Agent & Accredited Mortgage Consultant.

Want to invest with con� dence?“You have greatly changed my perspective on borrowing,

investment properties, negative gearing & shares. This is solely due to your friendliness, patience, professionalism & manner to give honest &

frank advice. The spreadsheets you provide allow us to see the potential & for me who is a highly visual person this has worked tremendously. It is one thing to tell me, but to show me works far better. So well done on

changing what were some concrete opinions on money.” - Rachel W

An experienced � nancial partner helping you become � nancially � t, for life.

BOOK NOW!To see a defence specialist in your area


By LCpl Mark Doran

DEFENCE families were given the opportunity to fly in a Black Hawk or Chinook at the 5 Avn Regt family day held on October 2 in Townsville.

More than 500 visitors were able to inspect the unit’s helicopters and vehi-cles, handle unit weapons and meet RAAF military working dogs.

They were also able to meet members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force pre-paring to participate in Exercise Hamel and inspect the MRH-90 Taipan troop-lift helicopter.

CO 5 Avn Regt Lt-Col James Brown

said the regiment asked a lot from its soldiers with a consistent level of oper-ational deployment and other training exercises.

“This is the one day of the year where we can show our appreciation to the regimental family,” he said.

“Without the support of spouses, mums, dads and kids, our people would not be able to do the outstanding jobs they do.”

The families of soldiers deployed to East Timor and Afghanistan also spent the afternoon at the base enjoying a flight over the city and a sausage-sizzle before attending a monthly welfare brief.

5 Avn Regt hosts Defence families

Family matters: Maj Liz Stephens, left, 5 Avn Regt, and her father Bob Stephens are shown over a Black Hawk by Cpl Justin Murphy at the 5 Avn Regt family day in Townsville. Photo by LCpl Mark Doran.

THE CA has guaranteed three for-mer Special Operations Task Group members facing charges as a result of Afghanistan operations will receive full support from the ADF.

“I give the members facing these charges a firm, personal undertaking that I will ensure they are thoroughly support-ed throughout the legal process,” Lt-Gen Gillespie said.

The charges were brought by the Director of Military Prosecutions after an investigation into a compound clearance operation in Afghanistan on February 12 last year.

One soldier has been charged with failing to comply with a lawful general order and, in the alternative, prejudicial conduct.

A second soldier has been charged with manslaughter and, in the alternative, dangerous conduct, and an additional charge of dangerous conduct.

Charges against a third member, cur-rently travelling overseas in a personal capacity, will be brought when he returns to Australia.

The matters will be heard before one or more service tribunals that will be con-vened in due course. It’s expected the trials will not begin until early next year.

CDF ACM Angus Houston said that, consistent with the presumption of inno-

CA’s pledge to support accused

Firm support: CA Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie has pledged his full support to SOTG members.

By Sgt Andrew Hetherington

THE perennial favourite, the slouch hat, has topped the list of items of clothing soldiers are proud to wear.

The ‘hat, khaki, fur-felt’ came comfortably ahead of DPCUs and berets in the just-completed phase two of the Army non-combat clothing review.

More than 3500 personnel responded to an Army-wide survey.It was sent to RSMs at more than 100 units, was then given to

personnel and filled out under test conditions in March.Participants answered 57 questions relating to barracks working,

ceremonial, senior officer and mess forms of dress.Clothing review report author WO1 Michael Kerr said the sur-

vey’s aim was to address the CA’s principles of driving down uni-form costs while maintaining Army’s heritage.

“Seventy-two per cent of respondents said we don’t need to change our current barracks dress – DPCU,” WO1 Kerr said.

“Of the 23 per cent who said we did need to make a change, 11 per cent said it should be for climate reasons.”

Participants were also asked which items of uniform they felt proud to wear.

And the result will come as no surprise.“The slouch hat came in on top gaining 44 per cent of responses,

with DPCU and berets coming in a distant second and third with 18 and 17 per cent respectively,” said WO1 Kerr.

Specific questions on maternity wear highlighted the need for a change in current uniform.

Female responses were mixed, with civilian dress on top at 18 per cent; coming in second was a maternity version of DPCU at 16 per cent, followed by civilian-styled dress and an adjustable waist DPCU uniform, both receiving 9 per cent of responses.

“A maternity style DPCU pant and shirt for females will be intro-duced soon. Work is also underway on a cut of DPCUs to give a bet-ter fit for females” WO1 Kerr said.

RSM-A WO Stephen Ward said work was also continuing in AHQ into ways to improve the cut and fit of DPCUs.

“Before the end of the year the Army Clothing Review Committee will decide what items of uniform Army will get rid of and what the Service will retain and modernise,” WO1 Kerr said.

To view the non-combat clothing survey and the results visit http://www.army.gov.au/docs/091110-story_for_website-army_clothing_review.pdf

Slouch hat – tops in clothing review

cence, the members will receive the full support of the ADF. This includes medi-cal, psychological, legal, chaplaincy and welfare support.

The statement by ACM Houston and Lt-Gen Gillespie follows an announce-ment by the Director of Military Prosecutions, Brig Lyn McDade, that she had decided to charge the three SOTG members with several offences arising

from the operation on February 12, 2009.“As a result of that compound clear-

ance operation, six people died and up to four people sustained injuries,” she said. “The operation was the subject of an investigation by the ADF Investigative Service and I received answers to my requests for further information through-out 2010.”

Brig McDade said she had invited the Vice CDF, a superior authority, on July 19 to represent to her under section 5A of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 the ADF’s interest in relation to charges she was considering.

“I received a response from the Vice CDF on September 1, representing the ADF’s interest in relation to charges being considered by me,” she said.

“After careful , del iberate and informed consideration of the avail-able evidence, some of which was only received recently, and the represen-tations to me made pursuant to s5A of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982, I have decided in accordance with my prosecution policy to charge three former members of the Special Operations Task Group with service offences.

“The accused will be charged with various service offences, including man-slaughter, dangerous conduct, failing to comply with a lawful general order and prejudicial conduct.”

Hit the road.

Whatever you want in life, we can help with a Personal Loan

For more information visit www.adcu.com.au, call 1300 13 23 28 or visit your local ADCU branch.

Schedule of Fees & Charges and Terms and Conditions may be obtained by calling 1300 13 23 28 or calling into any ADCU Branch. The terms and conditions should be considered in deciding whether to acquire the product. To receive this product, you must become a member of ADCU. Lending Criteria applies. ABN 48 087 649 741 AFSL No. 237988.


Aftermath of war dissected By Graham McBean

THE payoff of victory and the perils of defeat were under dis-cussion at the 2010 Chief of Army His tory Conference in Canberra from September 30-October 1.

Victory or defeat: armies in the aftermath of conflict brought national and international speakers together to investigate what hap-pens to armies after conflict.

From the French Revolution to Vietnam – better understanding the impact on victor and vanquished took centre stage at the National Convention Centre.

CA Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie said it was important to look to history as a means of planning for the future.

He said governments needed to make decisions and establish national priorities after conflict – to purchase a new military capability or build a hospital or freeway.

“There is rarely a problem

attracting funding priority for the Army when we are at war – espe-cially a major war with national survival at stake,” Lt-Gen Gillespie said.

“Conversely, extended years of peace in benign strategic environ-ments makes attracting funding for armies more difficult.”

He said the mood of the popula-tion also impacted on those deci-sions – especially when people sought a peace dividend.

“That appealing concept of a world free from war was most in evidence in the 1920s – an era which was not a good period for an army leadership trying to maintain a credible defensive capability,” he said. “The reason, as we know well, is that following a major conflict, governments face intractable prob-lems such as bankrupt treasuries, national infrastructures in ruins, dis-located populations and vast num-bers of demobilised soldiers to be assimilated back into civilian life.”

Lt-Gen Gillespie said contem-porary military planners needed to understand the reasons gov-ernments and nations of the time “signed up to this view of the future world”.

Keynote speaker Prof Alan Forrest, University of York, deliv-ered the address A glorious defeat? How the French remembered the armies of the revolutionary and Napoleonic wars.

He said the ideals of public service and that an army should reflect its society did live on when hostilities ended and society faced the problems of reintegration.

“I think the ideas [of the French Revolution] did become perma-nent – they were embedded in the French psyche,” Prof Forrest said.

“When future wars arose – most notably World War I – the French never thought about the possibility of a non-citizen army – it was part of the culture.”

After victory: CA Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie delivers the opening address at this year’s CA history conference in Canberra.

The only place to buy a mattress

To find your nearest store go to

www.sleepys.com.au*RRP, 10 yr Guarantee products only. Not valid with any other offer.

30% discountPresent your Defence Force ID to receive

off your next mattress purchase*

After a hard day’s workREST, RELAX, RESTORE

WINDSORWindsor Home Zone

142 Newmarket Road

3861 1333


By AB Melanie Schinkeland Cpl Zenith King

AFTER more than a century of operat-ing out of NSW, A Fd Bty is gearing up to relocate from Sydney to Brisbane at the end of the year.

Established in 1871, A Fd Bty is the oldest continuous serving unit in the ARA and has been based at Holsworthy for most of its service.

Command and control of the battery passed from 3 Bde’s 4 Fd Regt to 7 Bde’s 1 Fd Regt on September 30 as part of the RAA’s Force Modernisation Review (FMR).

Commander A Fd Bty Maj Nathan Laughton said new equipment would be introduced and the move would enable 1 Fd Regt to grow in accordance with the FMR and allow 7 Bde to meet its opera-tional readiness requirements.

“As part of 1 Fd Regt, A Fd Bty will become a gun battery,” he said. “So once the shift is complete it will no longer maintain forward observers or joint-fire teams. This capability will exist in other batteries within 1 Fd Regt.”.

The Army is balancing its RAA capa-bility across 3 and 7 Bdes and A Fd Bty’s relocation is part of that.

Maj Laughton said the move would ultimately improve Army’s overall artil-lery and indirect fire capability.

He said the battery would no longer need to maintain a parachute capability after the move.

“A Fd Bty hasn’t maintained a com-plete parachute capability for a few years now and was only required recently to ensure certain observer elements were

capable of conducting parachute opera-tions,” he said.

“Next year, a parachute capability will continue to be provided by a battery within 4 Fd Regt.”

The unit’s equipment is to be relo-cated by next February and its personnel will be posted to Brisbane, Townsville, Darwin and Adelaide in accordance with standard posting orders.

Although they were initially hesitant about the move, a number of A Fd Bty’s soldiers have asked to follow the unit to Brisbane and been selected to do so.

Maj Laughton said it was important to ensure the unit’s soldiers and their fami-lies were provided with timely informa-tion and help.

“Communication with the soldiers about the shift began last year because we wanted to provide as much informa-tion as early as possible,” he said.

“Career management agencies were also engaged in advance to allow person-nel the opportunity to submit their post-ing preferences.

“Personnel will stay in Sydney until the end of the year and then march into their respective units next year.”

He said the battery’s equipment would be divided between 1 Fd Regt and 4 Fd Regt with surplus stores returned to DNSDC and other depots around Australia.

“Early interaction with HQ Forcomd and 1 Fd Regt allowed us to work out which pieces of the battery’s equipment needed to go where.

“A Fd Bty is well-prepared for this move and I believe it’s a positive step for the Army’s RAA capability.”

A Fd Bty gets ready for move

Gunners’ dawn: A Fd Bty soldiers (above) bring a gun into action during their final direct-fire practice for 2010.

Safe landing: A Fd Bty and 3RAR paratroopers prepare to restow their parachutes at drop-zone Hinge, Singleton.

Get approved for a personal loan before 31st October, and you’ll automatically be entered to win a 3D TV*.

Prize includes:

*For competition terms and conditions visit ADCU website www.adcu.com.au. ADCU lending criteria applies. All personal loans or car loans during the Promotion Period need to be funded by 5pm Friday 19 November 2010. Competition entry is contingent on the loan being funded by this date and entitles one entry into the draw to win a 40” LED 3D TV valued at $3,000 including two 3D viewing glasses. This product is issued by the Australian Defence Credit Union Limited ABN 48 087 649 741 AFSL No. 237 988. Permit number: NSW LTPM/10/00758 ACT TP 10/04292

Total

value of the

package worth over

$3,000

Win a 3D TV.


Survey to assess attitudes

By Deanna Nott

THE conviction of an ARes soldier of fraud has highlighted the importance of ensuring claims to the Employer Support Payment Scheme (ESP) are legal and accurate.

The soldier, who claimed to be self-employed but was actually a full-time NT police officer, pleaded guilty to obtaining a financial benefit by decep-tion and making a false claim for ESP.

He received a suspended two-month prison term and an 18-month good behaviour bond.

He was required to pay back more than $13,000, was sacked from his job and now has a criminal record.

ESP Scheme Director Doug Stedman said it was disappointing the soldier abused ESP.

“It is concerning to our organisation and certainly provides us with a good reason to remind reservists they must ensure their claims are genuine,” Mr Stedman said.

“The intent of the ESP Scheme is to enhance employer support for reserve

service and increase the availability of reservists to undertake Defence service by providing financial support to civilian employers and self-employed reservists.”

Mr Stedman said the scheme had been set up under a legislative instrument (Defence determination) that details the eligibility criteria for all ESP claims.

“Decision makers are responsible for the approval or rejection of ESP claims. These decision makers are vigilant to ensure only genuine claimants are rewarded by the scheme,” he said.

“Everyone must be aware that when there is any suggestion or evidence a claimant is trying to obtain a financial advantage from the Commonwealth by fraud or deception, these matters are immediately forwarded to the appropri-ate Defence agency for investigation.”

Mr Stedman said if an investigation reveals a claimant has committed fraud or deception, the facts will be submitted to the appropriate authorities for pros-ecution.

“Reservists should remember this may lead to criminal prosecution and loss of employment,” he said.

By Larissa Di Savia

IT’S time again for soldiers to par-ticipate in the Defence Attitude Survey (DAS).

From October 15-31 members will receive emails via their DRN account inviting them to express their opinions on a wide range of ADF issues.

DGPers-A Brig Gerard Fogarty said the survey was an important feedback opportunity as it helped Army’s senior leaders understand what’s important to all Army person-nel.

“This survey helps Army and People Strategies and Policy Group (PSP) develop new policies that work for all personnel,” he said.

Since August 2009, the DAS has been administered entirely online to a 10 per cent sample three times a year.

The DAS has been reviewed to reduce the size of the survey, making it quick and easy to complete.

“This review was also to ensure the DAS was in alignment with broader Defence research and per-sonnel strategies,” Brig Fogarty said.

Army has been able to maintain a high response rate to the DAS since it went online. The February 2010 administration yielded a positive response rate of 50 per cent.

Results from the 2009-10 DAS

Honesty is best policy

indicate a significant increase in salary satisfaction – 54 per cent of Army respondents were satisfied with their current salary compared to 46 per cent in 2009.

The survey indicated that mem-bers of the Army showed higher lev-els of dedication to their service than

members of the Navy or Air Force. According to the latest DAS

results, all ADF members regard Defence-sponsored childcare, free medical and dental, spouse employ-ment assistance and subsidised hous-ing to be the most important condi-tions of service.

Policy makers: Soldiers will be asked to again take part in the online Defence Attitude Survey. Photo by Tpr Michael Franchi


By WO1 Martin Lenicka Manager, Army Suggestion Scheme

THE Army Suggestion Scheme is receiving a steady flow of ideas.

The scheme is open to soldiers and public servants employed in Army.

Good, commonsense suggestions are being actioned at a high level relatively quickly.

Any individual or group is wel-come to submit an idea providing it will help soldiers.

There is an opportunity for CA to formally recognise excellent sug-gestions and reward people whose good ideas have a substantial impact on Army.

This recognition might include a reward of up to $5000.

The scheme is closely linked to the Strategic Reform Program so suggestions that reduce costs and waste are encouraged.

Getting your idea in is a rela-tively easy process; there’s no need

for an essay, it’s your ideas that are important.

Some of the ideas that have sent in so far are shown below. We are working our way through them. Some require subject matter expert input and further research before they can be accepted.

Information on how to submit your sugges-tion can be found in CA Directive 09/09 at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/sites/CA/docs/CA_Directive_09_09_Army_Suggestion_Scheme.pdf


SKIN cancer appears in three main forms in varying degrees of lethality.

Director of Army Health Col Leonard Brennan said the locations where Army operated could increase the chance of soldiers developing the disease.

“We spend a lot of time outdoors operating in northern Australia and plac-es like Afghanistan where the ultraviolet light exposure is higher than it is in the southern states of Australia,” he said.

The most common and least danger-ous skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma (BCC). It grows slowly, often on the head, neck and upper torso, and appears as a lump or scaly area. It’s red, pale or pearly in colour and when it grows it might become ulcerated.

The second type, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), can spread if left untreated. It usually appears on the most sun-exposed areas including ears and lips, and might bleed easily or ulcerate. It grows over a number of months and looks like a thick, red scaly spot.

The final type of skin cancer, mela-noma, appears as a new or existing spot, mole or freckle which changes in size, shape or colour. If left untreated it will

kill you. It grows anywhere on the body, not necessarily in sun-exposed areas.

“Protect yourself from the sun – pre-vention is better than cure,” Col Brennan said. “The wearing of DPCUs with sleeves down, sunscreen and appropriate headdress, such as broad-brimmed bush and slouch hats, complies with best-practice sun protection.

“Keep an eye out for new skin spots or changes to existing ones. Get your partner or friend to inspect the parts of your body you can’t see properly. If a spot changes over time in size or colour, go to the RAP and have it checked.”

Col Brennan said in 2009 four Army cases of melanoma were reported to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

In 2008-09 DVA accepted 864 claims for non-melanotic skin cancer or BCC and SCC. This number is more than half that of 2002.

While the reduction is consistent with the progressive adoption by Army of safer and better sun practices, the fact is almost 1000 personnel every year require painful and sometimes disfigur-ing treatment.

For more information on skin cancer and mela-nomas, visit your RAP or http://www.cancer.org.au/aboutcancer/cancertypes/melanoma.htm

RAISED BY UNIT DESCRIPTION PROGRESS RECOMMENDATION

Maj B.J.A Jones DMO Land 75 Fuel-efficient climatecontrol mechanisms

Pending referral to sub-ject matter adviser

All reviewers thought the idea had merit and it was referred for further investigation

Cpl A.R. Boyd C Coy 1 MP Bn Modify MP motorcycle safety equipment

Complete All reviewers stated this was a workplace practice that should be addressed at the unit level through the RODUM system

Cpl Spain 6RAR Modular Combat Vehicle Crewman Helmet (HAVO helmet)

Referred to sponsor subject matter adviser for further investigation

All reviewers thought the idea had merit and referred for further investigation

Cpl D.S. Allen School of Armour Equip ASLAV personnel carrier with a litter station

Pending committee review

Mr L.L. Ellis HQ 8 Bde Implement a program in Army to advertise the ben-efits of reporting danger-ous occurrences

Complete All reviewers thought that the idea was sound but part of usual employment

WO2 K.J. Kennedy

Directorate Military Personnel – Army

Business reporting tool for PMKeys

Implemented –awarded Certificate of Commendation and $2500

All reviewers thought the idea had signifi-cant merit

WO2 D.J. Martin RAMS AAvan TC – Army

Production of an annual mandatory training DVD

Referred to sponsor subject matter adviser

All reviewers thought the idea had merit and referred for further investigation

WO2 D.J. Martin RAMS AAvn TC – Army

PDAT bar-coded stock-taking

Complete All reviewers thought the idea had merit and idea will be considered in future projects

Mr N.M. McLean ITO1 (APS 4/5) Men’s health issues –education and support mechanisms

Complete All reviewers thought that the idea was sound but met by current procedures

Capt C.N. Mayger Norforce Use of compressiongarments

Complete All reviewers thought the idea sound and idea will be considered in future projects

Ideas worth up to $5000

Look out for killer

Protection: Cover up to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Photo by LS Paul Berry

Ask us how!

Salary packaging makes sense. You can lease a car with Smartleasing and put more in your pocket. Smartleasing’s specialists will:

• Source your car

• Use our buying power for the best price

• Handle all the paperwork

• Arrange 36% discount on petrol, maintenance, rego and insurance

It’s that easy and that good! Call today for an obligation-free discussion.Call us now on 1300 112 769 Visit www.smartsalary.com.au

Working in Defence means

36% off petrol

Plus, apply

today and get

a bonus $100

Gift Fuel

Card!

* Offer available only to Defence members who choose Smartleasing as their lease provider.


By Lt Carrie Miner

BRISBANE-based spouses of part-ners away on deployment or recent-ly returned home are benefiting from practical financial help.

The Deployed Soldiers Welfare Association (DSWA) recently provid-ed cheques to several units who asked for assistance.

The money is donated to families in need, to give spouses practical help around the house and to host unit wel-fare activities for families.

National Manager DSWA Jim Shapcott recently presented the cheques at Gallipoli Barracks.

Alison Carey (wife of CO 2CER Lt-Col John Carey) and the network of 2CER wives, had identified a need for help around the house while their partners were deployed on operations.

Mrs Carey said the need was par-ticularly great for spouses who were pregnant or had small children.

“I called Dial An Angel to see if they could provide vouchers for three hours house cleaning,” she said.

“I originally asked for four vouch-ers. Dial An Angel told me they would match what we bought for the same amount of vouchers. So, I approached HQ 7 Bde for $421, and was told more than four times that was raised.”

Mrs Carey described the support from DSWA as “overwhelming”.

“It goes a long way to providing the practical support spouses need at home while their partners are away”, she said.

Lt-Col Christopher Mills, 2/14 LHR (QMI), was provided financial

Help for families AUSTRALIAN Army spouse Natalie Fletcher has done her country proud by scoring a volunteer award at a ceremony held in Texas recently.

Mrs Fletcher, wife of Army exchange officer Lt-Col Shaun Fletcher, received the Fort Sam Houston installation volunteer award at this year’s US Army Volunteer Corps volunteer of the year recogni-tion ceremony.

The award was presented to Mrs Fletcher for the hundreds of hours of dedication to the 950-child Fort Sam Houston Elementary School since 2009.

In front of more than 300 people in San Antonio, US Army Garrison Commander Col Mary Garr made special mention of Mrs Fletcher’s achievements and highlighted the many contributions the Fletcher family had made to the local com-munity.

During the event, a cheque for almost $7500 was presented to Col Garr by the US Army Volunteer Corps, representing the dollar value of the service provided by volunteers to the 20,000-strong Fort Sam Houston community.

Lt-Col and Mrs Fletcher are part-way through a posting with the US Army Medical Department, where Lt-Col Fletcher works as the depart-ment’s stability operations desk officer.

The RAAMC-US Army Medical Department exchange program has been going for more than 30 years.

US voluntary award for Aussie spouse

assistance for an upcoming family day welfare activity for spouses and their families. The extra financial support meant children got to enjoy special activities like a jumping castle and a petting zoo.

CO 20 STA Regt Lt-Col Nathan Loynes was presented with a donation

to help a family in his unit with house cleaning, lawn mowing and student tutoring services.

DSWA remains committed to pro-viding ongoing financial support to units and families while they are on deployment or post-deployment.

To date its support has been lim-

ited to 3 Bde and 7 Bde and has plans to expand its coverage to all deployed Army members and their families.

Soldiers or spouses who would like to apply for help from the DSWA are advised to con-tact their chain of command with details of their request.

Helping hand: DSWA National President Jim Shapcott presents a cheque to Alison Carey (the wife of CO 2CER) and Maj Brad Skinner, 2CER, to help while partners are away on deployment. Photo by Emily Taylor


By Graham Davis

HMAS Manoora’s Ship’s Army Detachment has helped bring closure to families affected by the wartime sinking of Australian Hospital Ship (AHS) Centaur.

For 67 years loved ones grieved and pondered the final resting place of the 268 men and women who went down with Centaur off the Queensland coast during World War II.

The hospital ship was torpedoed by Japanese submarine I-177 early on the morning of May 14, 1943. Of the 332 on board, only 64 survived the attack, the highest death toll of any merchant vessel sunk by a submarine in the Pacific theatre.

Wreckage of the Centaur now lies in more than 2000m of water, about 50km east of Moreton Island.

At 1pm on September 24, Manoora hove to above Centaur’s final resting place, with 340 family members and friends of the victims on board. One by one, or in groups, they moved to the ship’s rail, said a prayer and threw wreaths into the sea.

One mourner simply threw a card.Others moved to the stern to dispatch family ashes into the

ocean – some of those the remains of Centaur survivors. They will now join those below.

It was a time of tears, hugs and questions: “Why did a Japanese submarine attack a ship so clearly marked as a hospi-tal ship, a ship of mercy?”

Army Chap Jim Cosgrove told the family and friends gath-ered on the flight deck for the memorial service, including survivor Martin Pash, 88, it was a long time coming, but it was time to say goodbye.

“This is the first opportunity to visit the grave of your loved ones – today you will finally say goodbye to that person.”

Mr Pash is one of just two survivors alive to this day. He was given VIP treatment for the trip aboard Manoora to the Centaur.

With nearly 100 wreaths and floral tributes resting on tables, and with the Army and Navy members at attention, Mr Pash was escorted to his seat.

He was led to the rail to cast a wreath onto the water. He said he would recite a prayer and say goodbye to his old friends.

As she came to the site, Manoora’s bell tolled 268 times – once for each of the victims.

The memorial service stemmed from the discovery of the wreckage of HMAS Sydney (II) off the Western Australian coast. A number of organisations, including the Centaur Association, believed if they could find Sydney they could find the Centaur.

The Queensland and Federal Governments provided funds for the search and in December 2009 the hospital ship was detected by sonar, and later filmed as she sat, largely intact, on the seabed.

In March, an initial memorial service was held in Brisbane, but it was felt loved ones needed an opportunity to pay final respects at the site where the ship was lost.

The Queensland Government, Army, RAN and many other groups became involved.

By Graham Davis

“WHEN Centaur began to sink she took me down with her, down into No 4 hatch,” survivor Martin Pash said.

“I think I was 120ft beneath the surface when I kicked upwards; I could still see some lights. I let some of the air out of my lungs half way up and broke into the open.

“I was swallowing oil and water.”Eighty-eight-year-old Mr Pash is one of

only 64 to survive the sinking, and one of only two still alive.

Born in 1921, he told of how he went to sea on Port Melbourne when he was just 13 and became a steward on the hospital ship when he was 20.

“On the night [4:13am] of the sinking

I was asleep in the bow when the attack came,” he said.

“I got out but the ship then began to sink. It sucked me down with it … through the hatch. When I reached the surface there was nothing to hang on to so I swam the length of the ship until I found a raft.

“I was the first to climb on board … three more people joined me later. Then three or four more rafts arrived and we tied them together.

“Many of the survivors were badly burnt. One of them died so we had to bury him at sea.”

He praised Army nurse Sister Ellen Savage (the only nurse of 12 on board to survive), who despite her own serious inju-

ries and fractures, treated the wounded on the rafts. Sister Savage subsequently was awarded the George Medal, became the matron of the Royal Newcastle Hospital and has a nurse training facility in Queensland named after her.

More recently in 2010, the newly reno-vated family centre at Gallipoli Barracks now also bears her name.

“We were adrift for 36 hours,” Mr Pash said. “We could hear planes searching for us but there was a low cloud layer – they couldn’t see us.

“Then the destroyer the USS Mugford appeared. Her crew dropped nets over the side and we scrambled up them.”

Mr Pash now lives in Melbourne.

Long wait to say farewell

Survivor recalls sinking of Centaur

Lest we forget: CO HMAS Manoora Capt Steve Dryden and OC Ship’s Army Detachment Maj Scott Lymbery throw a wreath over the site where the wreck of AHS Centaur lies during an at-sea memorial service (above) and survivor Martin Pash tells his story (inset). Photo by Cpl Christopher Dickson

We offer discounts on fuel & maintenance and provide you with FREE roadside assistance.

To discover all the benefits of a Fleetcare Novated Lease call our expert consultants now on 1300 655 170 and dial ahead 859 to talk to Adam or 867 to talk to Dean. Visit fleetcare.com.au/novated for more information.

*Offer available until October 31st 2010

Unlike other providers we pay ALL your vehicle bills straight up – no waiting around for reimbursement

Any unused portion of your account is fully reimbursed to you at the end of your lease

Fleet purchasing power to get you the best vehicle price around

Dedicated personal account manager to provide you optimum support

Why fleetcare?

Call today and we’ll give you a $500 Fuel or Myer voucher when you

novate your vehicle with us PLUS we’ll waive the establishment fee!*

Call now and be rewarded!

Salary Package your next vehicle with a

Novated Lease and leave your tax in the dust.

defcredit.com.au

Def

ence

For

ce C

redi

t Uni

on L

imite

d A

BN 5

7 08

7 65

1 38

5 A

FSL

2345

82

DEF

2362

_A (0

8/10

)

Banking that’s builton the serviceFor over 35 years Defcredit has provided a full range of tailored financial services to the Defence Force and greater community.

As a credit union our aim is to constantly offer competitive products designed to suit any member of the community including Defence personnel on deployment.

From savings and insurance, to credit cards and loans, everything we offer, and everything we do, is for our members. But most important of all, our members tell us they consistently receive great service. And with branches in close proximity and on base that service is even easier to access.

We are Defcredit. Built on the service in more ways than one.

Call 1800 033 139 or visit your local Defcredit branch.

Salute to fallen trooperBy Antony Underwood

JUDGES of the inaugural Army Facebook Poetry Competition have unanimously selected a poem saluting fallen SASR soldier Tpr Jason Brown.

Army spouse Melissa Wood origi-nally wrote the poem, titled A Life Cut Short, for a university assignment.

Her submission was selected from 25 entries received during the month-long competition.

The poignant poem was penned about Tpr Brown, a friend of Melissa’s husband, Sgt Steven Wood.

Tpr Brown died from gunshot wounds in an engagement with insur-gents in Afghanistan on August 13.

“Jason and Steven joined the Army together in 2001, went through training together at Singleton, and then posted to 1RAR together,” Mrs Wood said.

She explained that the poem was written for an assignment for her mul-timedia class in a degree course in pho-tography at Charles Sturt University.

“I had to make a one-minute video, with the theme cut,” she said.

“Every opportunity I have had I have done my assignments with an Army theme.

“On the way home from Brownie's funeral I decided to make the movie about him, called A Life Cut Short.

“I wrote the poem specifically about Brownie but also with my own personal feelings towards our soldiers and what they do, and the frustrations that I feel towards people who start ranting about bringing our soldiers home when one is lost.

“Do they not realise that our sol-diers, especially the infantry and special forces soldiers, join the Army because they want to do the job of protecting our country and, should the need arise, the country of others who are unable to do it themselves?

“How would they feel if someone told them they are not allowed to do the job that they want?”

She said telling soldiers they could not go to war was like telling concert pianists they were not allowed to play the piano.

Well versed: Melissa Wood.

A childhood dream is realisedAs he signs on the dotted lineTo serve his country with honour To protect what’s yours and mine

He fights for your right to freedomHe fights for your right to speakLoyalty, courage and sacrificeTo a soldier is not unique

He doesn’t ask for thanksHe’s not interested in praiseWhat he does deserve is your respectFor the selflessness of his ways

There are countries full of peopleWho can’t rest easily at night

They’re not strong enough to protect themselvesThey need our help to fight

So the call to arms is madeTo the warriors of our landAll the training he has worked atHe’ll now experience firsthand

Weeks and months go byHe begins to fulfil his dreamsOf fighting against the Taliban And terrorist regimes

Not every mission goes to plan,Sad news is on its way.

He has made the ultimate sacrificeWe will never forget this day

Though this tragedy has happenedAnd our soldier’s life is lostDon’t disrespect his memoryWith protests of the cost

The bravest of the braveHe swore to protect and defendChose to do what many wouldn’tTo fight until the end

An amazing friend, protective brotherA deeply beloved sonRest in peace brave soldierYour duty is now done

Final journey: Tpr Jason Brown (above left) is carried from the church after his funeral by his warrior brothers from the SASR. Main photo by PO Damian Pawlenko

Mrs Wood believed calling for the soldiers to be brought home was disre-spectful to all soldiers, but in particular to the memories of those we have lost.

“I'm not saying everyone has to agree with what is happening but they should maybe educate themselves about the mil-itary, and what it is exactly that is hap-pening, before they disagree,” she said.

“Should they still disagree then do it respectfully.”

She realised that the men and women who served were not just soldiers but real people with families and they had lives outside of the Army.

“They just chose a career to help make a difference in the world, no matter how small, and so that we can continue to live the privileged lives that we do here in Australia,” she said.

Mrs Wood wins an Army memora-bilia gift pack and her poem has been posted on the Army Facebook page to be read by the 60,000 people who regularly follow Army activities on the page.

INAUGURAL POETRY COMPETITION WINNER: A LIFE CUT SHORT


ph

at.

cd

r

for ADF members

Fast becoming the #1 tax agent

Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a great taxreturn every year!

Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so youdon’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment.

One tax agent - We are not limited by locality so you and your familydon’t ever have to look for another tax agent again.

� Members who have served overseas,and/or have investment properties

� Members who have fallen behindon lodging their tax returns

Defence Force tax specialists - We haveextensive experience across all ranksand specialities, including:

Call 1300 763 575 24/7or visit us online at www.phatreturns.com.au

Introduce your partner to us and they

will receive a discount on our fee20%SPECIAL OFFER

14 WORLD NEWS Army October 14, 2010

Our soldiers in middle

Border watch: Duty investigators Capt Craig Richardson and WO1 Jim Armstrong verify a potential violation on the Israeli–Egyptian border.

THE Sinai is a seemingly endless, arid and isolated desert. It’s a volatile land-scape, swamped by cultural, political and ideological conflict.

Running from the northern tip of the Sinai, extending to its most southern point, runs a man-made fence.

This is essentially a line drawn in the sand indicating the international border between two historically hostile nations, Israel and Egypt.

This is the environment, 12km south-west of Gaza, where 25 Australian sol-diers provide crucial support to Operation Mazurka.

This little-known peacekeeping opera-tion based in Egypt’s east was originally intended as a UN operation. However, an impasse in the UN Security Council saw Egypt, Israel and the US negotiate their own peacekeeping organisation.

In 1981 the Protocol to the Treaty of Peace was signed to establish the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO).

Working with 11 nations, the Australian contingent is small but it makes a significant contribution.

The Commander of Australia’s con-tribution, Lt-Col Ian Hampson, said the Australians lived and worked at the Sinai North Camp headquarters. They performed key roles in operations, security, communi-cations and logistics. The camp comman-dant is an Australian major.

He said threat levels and operational tempo could change quickly.

“It can go from being relatively benign to a high-tempo war-fighting environment in a matter of hours,” he said.

“The main risks are from terrorists treat-ing us as opportune targets working in the area trying to enter Israel.”

The MFO also has to deal with illegal activities such as smuggling of weapons, people and drugs brought in to support the Palestinian people.

The MFO consists of two main camps, North and South, with a number of small remote observation and administration sites.

North Camp is 10 minutes south of Al Gorah and 40 minutes south-east of El Arish. South Camp is located five minutes from Sharm El Sheikh on the southern point of the Sinai Peninsula.

“What the MFO does greatly enhances the Middle East peace process,” Lt-Col Hampson said.

“Israel and Egypt are both happy the MFO is doing its job because they don’t need to be concerned about major conflict between them.

“One day I can go across the border to talk to the Israelis about their security issues and the next I can be in Egypt discussing theirs. It’s the MFO who’s in the middle of it all.”

The organisation is bound by the Treaty of Peace.

Twenty-five Australians serving in one of the world’s most volatile regions are making vital contributions to a long-running peacekeeping mission.

“...a work that offers general insight into the war in a number of pages that many might believe impossible. It is a work that certainly provides a good starting point for examination of the Great

War....All told, the intended audience will certainly come away with a better knowledge of the war.”

— Eric W. Osborne, Journal of Military History

For more information and to purchase in time for the Holidays, visit www.terencefinnbooks.com

If you thought you knew

the history of World War

One, think again. Discover

how the 20th Century was

shaped by the insanity of

The Great War.

Terence Finn’s highly

readable and concise history

of World War One tells a

compelling story of courage

and casualties, of military skill

and wartime blunders, of victory

and defeat.

This $ 17.95 hardcover book is available at Amazon.com and www.ivyhousebooks.com or call (919) 782-0281

Australian infantry wearing small box respirators, from the 45th Battalion, Australian 4th Division at Garter Point near Zonnebeke, Ypres sector, 27 September 1917.

WORLD NEWS 15 Army October 14, 2010

The peacekeeping force does not act as a buffer between combatants nor does it exist to uphold an interim truce arrangement.

Rather, it works closely with Egypt and Israel to support a permanent peace that they had already struggled together to forge and maintain.

The desire for peace on the part of the former enemies, combined with the effectiveness of the MFO, has resulted in a durable and lasting state of peace between the two nations.

Op Mazurka continues the proud tra-dition of Australian soldiers serving in the region.

In World War I, Australian units played key roles in the defence of the Suez Canal and allied conquest of the Sinai, advancing into Palestine and cap-turing Gaza and Jerusalem in 1917. In World War II, diggers returned to tread the same land, where they proved them-selves at El Alamein in 1942.

As a large organisation, the MFO employs local citizens. One of the prin-cipal functions of the Australian security sergeant is checking these employees as they arrive at camp.

This is challenging because of the

DUTY INVESTIGATOR: A critical job assumed by Australians on a rotational basis is that of duty investigator. All warrant officers and officers are expected to fulfil the responsibility. Duty investiga-tors verify suspected breaches of the treaty by Israel or Egypt. They are required to brief a Cabinet of key MFO personnel on their find-ings. If the Cabinet agrees that a significant incident or breach of the Treaty of Peace has occurred it is reported to MFO HQ in Rome for further resolution with Israel or Egypt.

SECURITY SERGEANT: The prima-ry role of the security sergeant is controlling and administering the Colombian soldiers who provide physical security in North Camp. The role is undertaken by four Australian infantry sergeants who operate on a continual 12-hour shift system. They train the Colombians in their operational roles. They are also responsible for responding to any secu-rity incident within North Camp. Another principal function is checking locally employed citizens as they arrive for work.

OUR MAIN JOBS AT SINAI CAMP

of two former enemies� Op Mazurka is a six-month deployment for most Australian personnel.� The contingent commander and the North Camp com-mandant are deployed for 12 months. � Australia was one of the original contributing nations to the Multinational Force and Observers. Australia and New Zealand contributed the force’s Rotary Wing Aviation Unit from March 1982 until April 1986. � Australia renewed its com-mitment to the MFO in January 1993, with an Army contingent of 25 personnel. � For more information on the Australian MFO contingent and the MFO visit http://www.mfo.org/contingents-Australia.php

OPERATION AT A GLANCE

language barrier and the large number that have to be processed in a timely manner each day.

In conjunction with this is the vital relationship that is maintained with the MFO Force Protection and Security Cell, which ensures an adequate level of force protection is implemented for all MFO personnel.

Op Mazurka is just one of several examples throughout the world where Australian soldiers are performing a mission that is difficult, often repetitive and marked by the sacrifice of home comforts and family.

Unlike other missions, it offers soldiers a rare opportunity to actively contribute and bear witness to the col-laboration, discipline and commitment required to maintain peace.

Multinational mission: Sgt Peter Mitchell briefs Colombian soldiers on their base security role at North Camp, which provides facilities for the operational and logistical needs of the MFO (above). Members of the Australian contingent pose for a group photograph (right).

PHONE TOLL FREE: 1300 637 568 TO SPEAK WITH ONE OF OUR TRAINED CONSULTANTS

Merlot Investments Australia is the only company in Australia that will: �� Become your Tenant & pay your Rent for up to 9 years

(giving you nil vacancy) �� Become your dedicated Property Manager & pay for all

your Routine Repairs & Maintenance for up to 9 years (giving you passive peace of mind)

�� Manage & ensure all your Tax Benefits are achieved

(increasing your net income weekly) �� Set up & manage all of your Financial & Mortgage

needs (putting in place loan structures to pay off your debts & current home loans faster)

*$90 per week “weekly out of pocket cost” is based on a $80,000 taxable income earner.

$90 per week is the estimated residual after rental income & tax benefits (increased net income) pays for all relevant expenses associated with the investment property.

Introducing Australia’s leading and only fully integrated investment property solution Build a passive portfolio of quality investment properties for as little as $90 per week* Brand new house & land packages in growth areas across Greater Brisbane (SEQ) Create a tax effective property portfolio that will reduce your tax & pay off your own home sooner

Merlot Investments Australia www.merlotinvestments.com.au Phone: 07 55 124 180 or 1300 MERLOT

MIA

While you’re securing the Nation We’re working on securing your Future

Own a brand new 4 bedroom home for less than $90* per week

Call us on 1300 738 601

FleetNetwork fleetnetwork.com.au

Fleet Network Pty Ltd D/L No. 20462*To qualify for this offer you must mention this advert to Fleet Network, prior to completion of your initial contract.The offer is subject to Fleet Network’s terms and conditions. Check our website for details.

Mention you saw this flyer prior to completing your initial contract and we’ll giveyou a choice of either a Free Nav Man C40 Portable GPS or a Teac Portable DVDPlayer with 7” Screen when your new vehicle is delivered.

Limited

Offer*

Vehicle salarypackaging.

Save now by salary sacrificing your next vehicle.

lateralaspect.fnw1233


Breaking down the barriersBy Cpl Zenith King

ADF linguists are working hard in Pakistan to ensure the smooth running of operations and the development of relations with the Pakistan military and local nationals.

Two dedicated linguists and two mul-tilingual ADF members performing the role as their secondary duty are deployed on Operation Pakistan Assist II.

WO2 Mohinder Singh, HQ Forcomd, has been providing linguistic support to the ADF for the past few years and, as a result, was selected to deploy on this operation.

“The language spoken in Pakistan is mainly Saraki which is a combination of Urdu and Punjabi,” WO2 Singh said.

“Punjabi is my native language and Urdu is something I have learned.”

During his deployment WO2 Singh communicates daily with local staff, and translates in the medical facility and with the Pakistan military.

“I am the face between the Australians and the Pakistanis,” he said.

“I feel like an important cog in the

chain and really appreciate the difference we are making to the lives of the people.”

WO2 Singh said seeing happy patients made him feel special.

“When you listen to people’s plight and see how they are clutching at straws to survive, it really puts things into per-spective.”

Pte Rasender Zeddy Bairu, 6Avn Regt, also grew up in India and speaks Urdu fluently.

“The locals are very happy to talk to us and when they come across Australians who speak Urdu they are really happy,” Pte Bairu said.

“There are other dialects as well but they are very similar, if you listen closely you can pick up what they are saying quite easily.”

Pte Bairu said he was enjoying his time in Pakistan and was grateful for the opportunity to help.

“I wanted to help the people and see how they are recovering from the floods.”

Op Pakistan Assist II is the ADF’s contribution to the government mission to provide aid in response to the devastating floods that occurred in Pakistan in July.

Bedside help: WO2 Mohinder Singh, HQ Forcomd, talks to a family with a sick child at the Camp Cockatoo Health Centre in Pakistan. Photo by PO Damian Pawlenko

Foreignlanguagetraining!

Foreign language eLearning courses are now being piloted on the Campus Learning Management System (LMS)

and speak with your Commanding Officer.

��

Is foreign language training important to your professional development?

Get

Certified!

Check out the broad range of certified eLearning courses available via Campus.

The range of eLearning courses available via the Campus Learning Management System (LMS) has been expanded and includes a variety of certified training courses.

Browse the range of certified training available on Campus today.

��

S K Y D I V E��THE EAST COAST

Available in Sydney - Cairns - Brisbane - Gold CoastLive in Courses, Weekend Courses, Mid Week Courses

Skydive Courses For Military Personnel

Derek Ryder, B.BusAccountant - Licensed Tax Agent243 Darley Road, North RandwickTel: 02 9399 8769 - Mob: 0418 603 499Email: [email protected]

MOBILE TAX AGENT

(opposite Queens Park)

I have over 18 years I have over 18 years experience in completing experience in completing

tax returns for tax returns for Defence PersonnelDefence Personnel

• All returns are completed by me personally• Costs very competitive group discounts available• Excellent reputation• Quality service• Anywhere — Anytime• Guaranteed quick turnaround• For convenience, returns by Phone - Fax - or Email• I offer a complete taxation service, including negative gearing, share portfolios and/or managed funds• specialising in multiple lodgments - discounts available• FREE taxation advice- with all appointments

��Basic Basic

returns via returns via email - from email - from

$99 !$99 !!!

20 WORLD NEWS Army October 14, 2010

By Cpl Zenith King

TWO great cricketing nations took part in a backyard cricket match at Kot Addu in Pakistan last month.

About 20 Australian personnel deployed on Operation Pakistan Assist II were given a lesson in cricket by the Pakistan military when it beat the Australian Medical Task Force (AMTF) 2-0 in their first competitive match on September 25.

Pakistan batted first and made 79 runs off eight overs with a loss of four wickets. Australia battled it out in an attempt to take the lead but fell short in only making 71 runs.

Spr Branko Sola, 2CER, said although it was a close first match, it took a while to understand the rules.

“The first match was a little confus-ing because we didn’t establish the rules before we started,” Spr Sola said.

“By the second one we knew what was going on and did everything we could to try and even the score.”

There were more than 40 specta-tors by the second match, eager to see if Australia could level the playing field.

But after only 30 minutes, Pakistan took the lead winning by two overs and five runs.

Spr Sola, 2CER, played in the sec-

ond cricket match and said it was a great experience.

“Playing against the Pakistan military was brilliant.

“It was a good way to relax and inter-act with each other away from our normal work environment,” he said

Air Force chaplain Wg-Cmdr Mark Willis organised the event and said it had been on the cards since AMTF deployed in August.

“Ever since we got here there has been a lot of interest from the Pakistan military to have a game of cricket,” Wg-Cmdr Willis said.

“It was something that the guys at Camp Cockatoo were keen to do as well.

“We had a big response and ended up with two teams and 22 players.”

Wg-Cmdr Willis said the match allowed deployed personnel to do some-thing a little different.

“We are doing it pretty tough out here. We are working with people who are sick and not doing so well and that can get people down. This was a way to lift their spirits.”

Spr Sola said he was not concerned about losing. “Regardless of the result I felt like we won anyway.”

Results: A 5/71 off eight overs; P 4/79 off eight overs; A 3/59 off seven overs; P 5/64 off five overs

Cricket lesson for Aussies

Spinning out: Spr Mick Gardener shows his style with the ball (above).Photo by Cpl Zenith King

Well played: Col Salman Rafique of the Pakistan Army shakes hands with Wg-Cmdr Ross Wadsworth, Commander JTF 636, at the end of the match (left). Photo by PO Damian Pawlenko

Firm strike: AC James Wood drives off the back foot during the cricket game. Photo by Cpl Zenith King

- Plus -- Plus -

Help us to serve you betterHelp us to serve you betterGood, bad or indifferent! We want your feedback!

This survey is your chance to get involved in shaping the products and services that your local on base canteen provides you. The survey is open from September - December and can be accessed directly online or by going to www.surveymonkey.com/s/FDS.

Simply by completing the survey, you will go into the four remaining draws for one of 5 $100 Coles Myers Gift Cards!

Draws will take place 6th October, 27th October, 17th November and 1st December

To submit online go to www.surveymonkey.com/s/FDS

ENTER TO WIN

Period of entry will run from 1st September - 1st December 2010. All entries must include at least a first name, contact phone number and email. Email addresses are collected for verification that only one entry per person is collected. To be a valid entry all questions must be answered. Winners will be selected at random and no preference is given to positive feedback responses. Vouchers will be drawn every 3 weeks from the pool of received entries in that period. Vouchers will be drawn on the 15th September, 6th October, 27th October, 17th November and 1st December. Winners will be notified by phone and vouchers will be sent directly to the winner.

© 2010 THE COCA-COLA COMPANY. ‘COCA-COLA’, THE GRIP & GO BOTTLE AND THE DYNAMIC RIBBON DEVICE ARE REGISTERED TRADE MARKS OF THE COCA-COLA COMPANY

Frontline’s Customer Satisfaction Survey draws huge responsesIn just a month, over 600 customers have told Frontline what they think about their products and services in their national Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS).“This is a fantastic result” says Joni Edson,

Marketing and Operations Coordinator “Plans are already going into place allowing us to provide new products and services based on the feedback from our customers.”The CSS is open until

December on all bases on which Frontline or ACC operates.As an added bonus, all completed surveys will be entered into the national draws for one of 5 Coles Myer Gift Cards.The first gift card was

drawn on the 15th September.Congratulations to the first winner Andrew Oppelaar from Lavarack Barracks.Customers can complete the survey online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/FDS or can obtain a survey from their local outlet.

PHILLIP DAHLERACCOUNTANT/TAX AGENT

The services provided are:• Completion & Lodgement of Personal Tax Returns• Bookkeeping and General Accounting Services• Tax and Business Advice• Home and Business Loans• Completion & Lodgement of ABN applications• Completion & Lodgement of monthly and quarterly BAS statements To make a booking please contact us on; Phone: 02 4648 3910 Fax: 02 4647 7087 Email: [email protected] PO Box 437, Narellan NSW 2567

By Cpl Zenith King

FOUR logis t ics personnel are deployed to Pakistan to provide move-ment support to Operation Pakistan Assist II.

The team includes three movers and a logistics officer.

They have been coordinating the entire movement of personnel and cargo from Multan to Kot Addu and back as well as from the MEAO and Australia.

Logistics officer Sqn-Ldr Dean Bruce, 381 ECSS, deployed on Op Pakistan Assist II as part of the advance party.

“Our responsibility was to coordinate the movement of stores and personnel coming into the APOD at Multan airbase and the Kot Addu area,” Sqn-Ldr Bruce said.

“We came with a mobile air-load team who were responsible for the load-ing and unloading of aircraft.

“It worked well because the UAE and Japanese came here with no capabil-

ity to unload, so our team were heavily involved in unloading their aircraft.”

Mover Cpl Josh Hampson, JMCC, said the team worked closely with the UAE Air Force, the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force and the Pakistan military to ensure personnel and cargo were transported efficiently throughout the region.

“The Japanese and the UAE Air Force were more than happy to work with us and are extremely willing to move us around,” Cpl Hampson said.

He said he had found it easy working with other nations and was enjoying the opportunity to work with the Japanese again.

“I worked with the Japanese in Iraq with their C-130 and this time I get to work with their rotary wing. It’s always a pleasure to work with them as they are easy to get along with and are always willing to help us.”

The team will continue to provide logistics support through Multan.

Teamwork: The four members of the Joint Movers Coordination Centre Team – Cpl Josh Hampson, WO2 Jamie Montgomery, Sgt Angie Jennison and Sqn-Ldr Dean Bruce. Photo by PO Damian Pawlenko

By Maj John McPherson

SOLDIERS in Afghanistan are about to get new “digs” with construction beginning on hard-ened accommodation facilities at Multinational Base Tarin Kot.

The concrete buildings will provide more than 1350 additional hardened bed spaces for Australian personnel and will include two cha-lets of German-designed Drehtainer modular accommodation.

They will offer greater protec-tion from insurgent indirect rocket attacks.

The buildings are expected to be completed by April 2011.

Maj Glen Billington, Senior P r o j e c t E n g i n e e r , P r o j e c t Management Team – Afghanistan (which delivers all major construc-tion works for Australian elements), said the US$42-million project was coming together smoothly.

“The concrete slabs for the hard-ened accommodation already are being poured and we’re receiving deliveries of the new Drehtainer modules from Germany,” he said.

Maj Billington said most of the material required for the hardened concrete accommodation was manu-factured on site.

The Drehtainer modules, which are similar in outside appearance to shipping containers, are being deliv-ered using a combination of road and air freight.

“Site construction will be under-taken by contractors and RAAF and

Good foundation: Concrete is poured for the new reinforced accommodation buildings at Multinational Base Tarin Kot. Photo by Maj John McPherson


Keeping aid effort on move

Put it on the slab

Army tradesmen,” Maj Billington said.

Other projects under way, or in the planning stages, include upgraded base services, a replace-ment kitchen and additional logistic facilities. There was also a multitude of minor works to provide immedi-

ate infrastructure solutions for the respective bases.

The projects are in addition to the recently completed new Force Communications building.

Sqn-Ldr Danny Cusack and WO2 Brendan Johnson are super-vising the accommodation projects.

22 CENTREPIECE Army October 14, 2010 23

Firepower capabilities were on display as units from 3 Bde took to Townsville Field Training Area for a combined arms training activity.

Photos and report: LCpl Mark Doran

A CONCENTRATION of 3 Bde units with supporting Army and RAAF elements conducted adaptive campaign training at the Townsville Field Training Area from

August 29 to September 21.The aim of the Combined Arms Training Activity

(CATA 10) was to practise the planning and execution of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in preparation for contin-gency operations and Exercise Hamel.

Highlights of the exercise included an airborne insertion by 3RAR, live-fire assaults by combat teams from 2RAR and 3RAR and a firepower demonstration using all assets available to the brigade.

CO 3RAR Lt-Col Trent Scott said CATA 10 was an excellent opportunity for Battle Group Kapyong to confirm their collective training skills in blank and live-fire exercise scenarios.

“The live-fire component of the combined-arms activity was outstanding and fully tested all of the sol-diers in their ability to command, control and execute combined arms on the battlefield,” Lt-Col Scott said.

“It was challenging and raised the standards of the battle group.”

Comd 3 Bde Brig Stuart Smith said CATA 10 was a challenging and complex exercise, which took all of the brigade’s soldiers across the different lines of adap-tive campaigning.

“They had to deal with the protection and support of a civilian population and then move to joint land combat against an aggressive and adaptable threat force,” Brig Smith said.

“I am also particularly grateful for the assistance we received from other parts of the ADF.

“The RAAF provided close-air support and strate-gic lift and 5 Avn Regt provided us with vital helicop-ter support for the exercise, and all of our training was underwritten by support from 17CSS Bde who assisted

with logistics. For our reset and reintegration year as a brigade following operational commitments last year – we are now ready to go on Exercise Hamel.”

Firepower demonstrationSome of the Army’s most advanced weapon sys-

tems were displayed in a firepower demonstration dur-ing the activity.

A combined-arms battle group engaged targets by day and night with mortars, artillery, cavalry, helicop-ters and RAAF fighter aircraft at the Townsville Field Training Area on September 9.

Combat Team Bravo 2RAR manned the defensive position for the display and was supported by B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt in protected mobility vehicles.

Brig Smith said the soldiers demonstrated the weapons to paint a picture of the way battles may be fought.

“Combined arms is about mutual support – air supporting ground forces, aviation supporting combat forces and armour, cavalry and artillery combining with infantry to fight the land battle,” Brig Smith said.

“All this is underpinned by a strong combat services support element, in particular, to preserve our force with casualty evacuation.

“There is one lesson that I would like the soldiers to take back and that is the lesson of mutual support.”

Artillery support was provided by 4 Fd Regt and a Chinook from 5 Avn Regt was used to display rotary wing capabilities.

Javelin missiles successfully destroyed targets more than 2km away and one was fired as night fell, which gave a spectacular display of light and sound when combined with the effects from tracer rounds and illu-mination.

LCpl Dirk Thompson, Combat Team Bravo, said the company had been working closely with engineers from 3CER as well as gunners from 4 Fd Regt.

“We also incorporated our support elements of mor-tars and direct-fire support weapons including MAG-58 machine guns and .50cal heavy machine-guns,” LCpl Thompson said.

“This exercise also helped bring junior soldiers up to speed for fighting in places like Afghanistan.”

Combat team live-fire activityCritical to training was participation in a micro

combat team live-fire activity.Platoons were expanded to an almost 80-man

organisation that included a recon patrol, a surveillance detachment and up to two sniper pairs.

Also added was a DFSW section in the .50cal machine-gun role, an organic assault pioneer team, a mortar section and an artillery troop.

Attached to each platoon headquarters was a joint-fires officer, a mortar-fire controller, a gun-fire control-ler, advanced medical assistance and a role-playing interpreter.

Maj Ben McLennan, 2RAR, said the aim of the activity was to enable the rifle platoons to achieve a key training step in preparation for Exercise Hamel and establish the foundation for follow-on combat-team live-fire training.

“This activity demonstrated the enhanced lethal-ity, responsiveness and flexibility of the micro combat team in close combat on a complex objective,” Maj McLennan said.

“It also validated the relevance of the assault pio-neer capability within infantry battalions in the execu-tion of urban explosive breaching and the destruction of caches.”

The village style objective was constructed by pio-neers from 2RAR with buildings made of mud and straw, and old cars were used as targets to increase the realism of the training.

On the move: Pte Joshua Phillips, 2RAR, provides cover for a simulated casualty. Lookout: Members of Combat Team Bravo 2RAR man their defensive position.Bird’s eye view: A Chinook flies past the firepower demonstration during 3 Bde’s combined arms training activity at the Townsville Field Training Area.

Bombs away: Bombs from a RAAF Hornet hit the target in a fire power demonstration (above) as Gnr Leigh Farrow, 4 Fd Regt, checks the dial sight of the 105mm Howitzer at the fire power demonstration (below).

On target: Pte Leigh Beazley, 2RAR, mans his .50cal heavy machine gun.

Fireworks: The sky comes to life during night firing at 3 Bde’s combined arms training activity at the Townsville Field Training Area.

Merici College .… is a quality, affordable non-government secondary school,

educating girls in a Catholic environmentfor its strong focus on pastoral care

for n ADF mentor on site

f a technology rich environment

and neighbouring NSW centres

To find out more about Merici Collegesee our bsite at www.merici.act.edu.auor contact the Enrolment Officer Ms Trish Ryan on (02) 6243 4102or by email: [email protected]

Caters for ADF families in the ACT

Merici College

WHILE flicking through Army, I saw the advertisement calling for privates, lance corporals or corporals who wish to take their career in a new direction and apply for officer train-ing at RMC Duntroon.

Having considered this option on and off during my time in service, and reached the rank of corporal, I am left with a question that no-one has been able to answer.

Why are soldiers unable to submit RPL and commence officer training at the beginning of second class given the qualifications and experience they have gained during their career?

For example, completing Subject 2 for infantry operations qualifies infan-trymen to lead and conduct section-level operations.

From what I am told this is the same level of operations achieved during the first six months in third class. Contrary to this, a graduate from ADFA, after three years in the Army in a university environment, commences training at RMC at second class.

What experience, qualifications or competencies do they achieve in three years at ADFA compared to nine years in the infantry with three operational deployments, reaching the rank of cor-poral and even being employed as a recruit instructor?

Is it that I have not made the transi-tion to adulthood during the three-year program, or made the lifelong friends in other services that Commandant ADFA used as some of the reasons we keep ADFA open, Army August 5?

The Army requires high-quality officers and there is no better way of finding them than within the ranks we already have. The experience they have is invaluable.

However, the biggest turnoff to going through RMC for an already-serving soldier is the prospect of being treated like a recruit coming in off the street and having your previous experi-ence thrown aside and disregarded.

Is there any chance of the current process being changed so ex-serving soldiers and corporals can start their officer training at RMC at the same stage as ADFA officer cadets?Cpl Damien Roberts1RTB Kapooka, NSW

Brig Michael Moon, Commandant RMC, responds:OUR Army has a very proud record of soldiers undertaking officer train-ing, all of whom (to my knowledge) have undertaken the full course of their respective training institution.

I will outline why we take soldiers into the junior class (III Class) at Duntroon and not II Class.

RSM-A’s FAQsQ: What are we doing about knowledge man-agement and the lessons we are learning from current operations?A: Success in battle is largely dependent on an army’s ability to learn, adapt and act faster than its adversary.

The Australian Army’s adversaries will be smart and adaptive; recent experiences in the MEAO testify to this. However, through effec-tively managing what it knows and understands, the Army has the ability to learn the lessons of the day and apply them to retain its edge on the con-temporary battlefield.

As Army heads down the path to a more flex-ible, adaptable and con-tinuous learning culture, the role of knowledge and its management becomes crucial. The ability of the Army to get the most from the technology and information available will assist all commanders to succeed in combat.

Superiority in the bat-tle space is as much about the transfer and flow of knowledge and expertise as any weapons platform. At its simplest level, knowledge management is about getting the right information to the right people at the right time. Knowledge management helps personnel to cre-ate and share knowledge and act in ways that will measurably improve indi-vidual and organisational learning, thus improving performance.

To help with knowl-edge management, iArmy has been developed. iArmy is a key initia-tive in Adaptive Army's plans to better manage its knowledge.

It is a single point of entry to Army's key sources of information and knowledge and ena-bles the user to locate specific information through smart searches. iArmy is a work in pro-gress. Its current links and searches are restrict-ed to doctrine, lessons, e-learning, training vide-os and the Army wiki, but this will change as new features and databases are brought online.

Forums and digital images will be incorpo-rated as iArmy grows. The site aims to facilitate the free flow of knowl-edge within Army.

iArmy can be found at http://teamweb/sites/ahq/mspdivi-sion/doctrine/default.aspx

The good oil on our fuel cards

Class action sought

RMC is an intensive, albei t 18-month, training course. Having serving soldiers in III Class better ena-bles the training take up of the civilian entrants.

The knowledge and experience of the serving soldier is transferred, infor-mally, within the section and across the class to produce a better standard of cadet in a shorter period of time.

The capacity for the serving sol-dier to lead, mentor, guide and develop civilian entrants cannot be underesti-mated.

Many a direct-entry officer would owe their successful completion of officer training to the example or wise words of an ex-serving soldier in their section or platoon early in their train-ing.

The establishment in a peer group is essential for success at RMC. Coming into a class that is already formed after six months of intensive training result-ing in substantial small-team and peer-group development is very difficult and puts the new class member at a distinct disadvantage.

The class is also standardised in its training. This is important as the col-lege teaches doctrine and not the TTP that one serving soldier may have and another not.

Also, many soldiers have been out of formal training and education envi-ronments for a long period of time. The first six months at RMC assists in returning to that environment before the much more demanding II Class period of instruction commences.

Another important reason is that the college does not just teach individual and section skills in the first six months.

A range of other subjects are introduced in III Class that continue throughout officer training as well as inculcating the junior class into the col-lege’s routine, requirements and ethos.

Full of cheer: RMC cadets celebrate their graduation. Photo by Grace Costa

In terms of the academy cadets, dur-ing their three years at ADFA the Army cadets are provided their single-service training (SST) by RMC.

They achieve the equivalent of the first six months, albeit in blocks, using the RMC curriculum. The final III Class exercise is combined with ADFA SST in mixed sections to integrate the two groups for the start of II Class.

Bringing soldiers into III Class RMC is not a sign of disregard for their service, qualifications and skills. In fact, it is just the opposite.

We rely upon that experience to achieve the training standards this col-lege is renowned for across the world. Nor is it a rehash of recruit training.

A number of 1RTB instructors that have assisted the college in recent years have commented to me that while they expected it to be like Kapooka, RMC was in fact different.

For those that are considering a long-term career as an officer, six months in III Class is a sound invest-ment.

If Cpl Roberts remains interested then I would encourage him to submit an application. I would encourage him to speak to a recent graduate or the SNCO or WO staff here at the college should he require more advice on sol-diers training at RMC.

HAVE YOUR SAY■ Letters under 300 words are preferred.■ All letter writers must include their name, unit, location and contact number for veri-fication.■ Email letters to [email protected]

24 LETTERS AND VIEWPOINTS Army October 14, 2010

Key site helps us retain an edge

AS THE Director JFLA, I am respon-sible for delivering fuel-card services to Defence.

I noted an article in Army (September 16, page 9) that contained inaccurate information.

This information has led to a number of calls from Army units concerned that the policy/process issue identified in the article would result in extra work at the unit level.

This is not the case as the reported facts are incorrect. The points of clarifi-cation are as follows:

1. The unit CO has total control of how many cards are issued per vehicle. JFLA neither directs nor advocates that each vehicle has four fuel cards.

2. Fuel cards are cancelled after six months of inactivity and not the one month identified in the article (note this is being increased to 12 months).

3. The average time taken to replace fuel cards is 10 days.

JFLA has been working with the services over the past 12 months on the development of detailed policy and pro-cedural instructions.

The services endorsed the final ver-sion of these documents on September 22 with an effective date of October 30, 2010.

A Defgram on the new policy will be released by the end of September.

More information relating to fuel cards can be found on the JFLA site at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/dmoweb/sites/JFLA.Capt Steven Sparks (RAN)DJFLASydney, NSW

TRAINING 25Army October 14, 2010

By AB Melanie Schinkel

THE CONVERSION from 105mm M2A2 guns to the 81mm mortar system for 2 Div units is well under way with a number of soldiers undertaking a mortar operator course in Western Australia.

Sixteen soldiers from 7 Fd Bty, 16 Fd Bty and 48 Fd Bty completed the nine-day course that culminated with a live-fire mortar activity at Lancelin Defence Training Area on September 5.

Bty Commander 7 Fd Bty Maj Steve Mathers said it was 7 Fd Bty’s first live-fire activity since firing 105mm M2A2 howitzers in June last year, and the first time an ARes artillery unit had fired mortars in WA.

“Live firing always gets a gunner’s blood boiling, so I think the soldiers were grateful for the opportunity because they hadn’t fired for some time,” Maj Mathers said.

“We set up the mortar base plate position and fired Saturday afternoon until all the trainees were qualified.

“In order to meet capability requirements, we need to convert the entire battery to mortars by mid-2011.”

Comd Forcomd Maj-Gen David Morrison directed the conversion in 2009 to maintain an indirect-fire capa-bility within the ARes by providing a skills base for the training of high readiness reserve joint fires teams.

Maj Mathers said the course taught soldiers how to bring a mortar into action and handle ammunition, as well as how to fire and maintain the weapon.

“We also need to qualify a number of personnel as command post operators and mortar line commanders so they can supervise the mortar line – this process is ongo-ing,” he said.

“Initially, some gunners were hesitant about leaving their guns because they thought the mortar was a bit of a ‘pop-gun’, but during the live-fire activity they were impressed with its capability.”

Range safety and the careful carriage of ammunition were particularly important during the activity.

“Normally, if the drills are carried out correctly there are no problems,” Maj Mathers said.

“It’s all about doing your job accurately and operat-ing safely as a three-man team.”

Bombs away with mortars

Lift-off: Gnr Mathew Carter, left, and Bdr Tim Knappstein fire the 81mm mortar at Lancelin Defnce Training Area (above) as 2 Div soldiers take cover after firing the mortar during training (inset). Photos by Sgt Tracy Tillman

$350/wk

CALL US TODAY

1800 044 429Email [email protected] www.astuteinvestments.com.au

We manage the entire purchase process on your behalf. You can sit back and enjoy the investing experience

RENTING VS. OWNING

WHICH IS BETTER FOR ME?

Can rent a nicer home then you can afford to buy Can buy the investment in a good growth area $223/wk better off if you also receive RA (based on $160/wk RA benefit)

$63/wk better off by renting and owning an investment

We source, negotiate, manage and assist with the entire process, by offering:

• Property Research and Selection

• Detailed Analysis of Affordability

• Finance Approvals with Major Banks

• Engagement of a Solicitor for Settlement

• Employ a Rental Agent and assist in acquiring a tenant

• Prepare your 1st years tax variation with an Accountant

• Risk Insurance Assessment to protect Assets

(Life, TPD, Income Protection, Trauma)

THESE SERVICES ARE FREE FOR DEFENCE MEMBERSAstute Investments QLD Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 337160) of Synchron,

AFS License No. 243313.

CALL TODAY

for a free assessmentto see what’s best

for YOU

At Astute we are aware of the demands placed on Military members. DON’T LET YOUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO SUFFER WHILST YOU SERVE.

INVESTMENT HOUSE $400,000 Bank Interest $26,000 p.a.

Rates $2,000 p.a.

Insurance $1,000 p.a.

Rent - $350/wk $18,200 p.a.

Tax refund @ 30c $3,240 p.a.

Left to Pay $7,560 p.a.

Weekly Amount $145/wk

Market rent to pay to live in equivalent house

Total Outlay $495/wk

OWN HOME $400,000 Bank Interest $26,000 p.a.

Rates $2,000 p.a.

Insurance $1,000 p.a.

Weekly Amount $462/wk

Total Outlay $558/wk

ASSUMPTIONS FOR BOTH PROPERTIES • 6.5% interest rate p.a.

• Borrow 100%

• Pay Interest Only

��

��

��

�� !�"�! ��!�"

#��#��$��

��

�!��!�� "#�� $��%� �&��'��(� �)$%&'(*��%� �!��'��(� �)%!'(*��

��+��

��

% �&�'()%*+�$,-%(�.)/��0��1"��2��3�1��2��4!�3��5�6�,��1" ��3�1��7��0��1�8�2��3�1�"�2��48"�3��8��5�6�,��1� ��3�1��7��

,-�� "�� ./�� 0��1��2��3�� '�� +��4��5��

#)9+�9�*-+�2�0((+)(*$:�.)/��1� �2��31"!�2��

�� (��4��6��7��8#� �� 2��1��9�� :��8��.�� ;��5�� 4��<��

,�;��;��1�!�3"!��<�

/=��-+�#)9>(2�0,*�09+(�.)/��1� �2��31�8�2��

&��.�� 2��92$��$��!�� =�� +�� :>.�� :��+:��8��+8�� +�� ?�� 226��

,�;��;��1��31�!��<�

'*##93,*+$2�,(/>)*??(�.)/��1"�"28��31"��28��

'��.�� ?��!��."�� 7��2��6�� +��

��;��@�� A��/�A�� "��,�;��$�;�;��1"��<�

NATIONAL INTERESTS, WHO’SWHILE YOU‘RE OUT SECURING

OUT SECURING YOUR FUTURE?

TALK TO US AND EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE.


By AB Melanie Schinkel

IN RESPONSE to the Infantry 2012 capability review, changes have been implemented to the infantry IET course that will instruct, mentor and develop more than 800 rifleman trainees this financial year.

The 13-week Regimental Infantry Operations Platoon Course (RIOPC) at Singleton has undergone substantial modifications since October last year.

OC Rifleman Wing School of Inf Maj Jeff Frisby said the RIOPC was Army’s foundation training for infan-trymen.

He said the course had transitioned from its previous structures to adhere to the infantry-battalion modernisa-tion plan and align with evolving tac-tics, techniques and procedures.

“The course concentrates on foun-dation war-fighting skills trainees need in an infantry battalion going to war,” Maj Frisby said.

Training reflects the new rifle sec-tion from nine to eight soldiers in two teams of four.

A separate manoeuvre-support section comprises three teams of four soldiers.

Twenty-five courses have been completed since the alterations were made and a further six are under way.

He said the revised RIOPC had also reintroduced training on the Mag 58 7.62mm machine gun, which hadn’t been taught at the School of Inf for about 15 years.

“All soldiers will now leave this course qualified on the GSMG Mag 58 and 84mm MDFSW weapons,” he

said. “To my knowledge the 84mm MDFSW has never been taught on this course before.

“We had to rely on the knowledge of senior soldiers to teach our instruc-tors how to train their soldiers on these crew-served weapons systems.”

During the RIOPC, trainees learn the fundamentals including navigation in a rural environment, maintaining battle readiness, platoon and section patrolling and contact drills, offen-sive and defensive operations, weapon handling and fire and movement.

“Input from the section com-manders on training is highly valued because they provide information about the contemporary operating environment based on their experi-ences within a battalion,” Maj Frisby said.

“So, while we teach doctrine, our section commanders also incorporate their real-life experiences into the les-sons.”

He said the RIOPC was one of the harder IET courses in the Army because it was mentally and physically demanding on trainees.

“Each soldier marches out of here qualified on every weapon sys-tem they may encounter during their career in a rifle platoon,” he said.

“They also leave as exponents of military self-defence and qualified in basic combat communications, which hasn’t occurred in the past.

“This course produces robust, well-trained soldiers, who are pre-pared to undertake their responsibili-ties and duties within an infantry bat-talion.”

800 new grunts on agenda

L plates: Infantry IETs learn their trade at Singleton. Photo by AB Melanie Schinkel

www.aviationaustralia.aero

WANT YOUR ADF / DEFENCE CONTRACTOR AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE CONVERTED TO A CASA QUALIFICATION?

Depending on your experience and ADF maintenance authority levels, �� against the new licence.

CASA is introducing an Aircraft �� regulation equivalent to the European ��Regulations.

For further information phone Troy on 07 3860 0900

Specialising in Income Tax Returns forArmed Forces Personnel for over 20 YEARS

INCOME TAX RETURNS

SYDNEY LEVEL 1, 23 OXFORD RD, INGLEBURN

PHONE 02 9829 4188

REGISTERED

TAX A

GENT

28 TRAINING Army October 14, 2010


GUNNERS from 8/12 Mdm Regt trialled a new joint fire-control and battlespace management system dur-ing Ex Predators Run in July.

More than 150 personnel from 8/12 Mdm Regt deployed to the Mount Bundey Training Area on July 19 to qualify soldiers on the 155mm M198 howitzer and JNCOs as detachment commanders.

For the first five days of the exer-cise a dry-fire period was conduct-ed, designed to teach the basics at detachment and command post (CP) level and concluded with full battery deployments and movements.

Personnel also trialled the new Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) for the first time.

Gun Position Officer (GPO) 101

Mdm Bty Lt Matthew Seabrook said CP staff and other personnel worked with AFATDS field support representa-tive Bill Rundell from Raytheon to develop mission procedures for the new system.

“They focused on using the sys-tem in the CP, regimental and observer roles and it was used for the first time during a live-fire mission on July 24,” Lt Seabrook said.

“AFATDS was used in the battery CP to engage the targets given by the regimental command post.

“Then, after the target was accept-ed, the information was sent to the guns.”

The new system cuts several min-utes off the current method of tasking artillery, which is highly dependent on voice commands over radio networks.

AFATDS is fully digitised and

under ideal conditions will be able to provide firing solutions to gun detach-ments in less than two minutes from the time the forward observer inputs target information.

It will also give commanders at all levels situational awareness of the battlespace, providing the location of friendly and enemy forces on digitised maps from systems such as blue-force tracker.

Gnr Ryan Harden, an artillery com-mand systems operator at 101 Mdm Bty, used AFATDS during the exercise.

“Working out of a Bushmaster I used the system to orientate the guns,” Gnr Harden said.

“With help from the GPO I gave firing data to the detachments so they could get rounds onto their targets.”

Gnr Harden said AFATDS was a lot more than just a gunnery computer.

“It has interoperability with other systems, giving us a greater situation-al awareness [of the battle field],” he said.

“It’s easier to use and more advanced than the indirect fire-control computer [currently in service], as you can input weather and weapons data, can see the status of units on the battlefield and can also control their movements.”

CO 8/12 Mdm Regt Lt-Col Neil Sweeney said one of the key lessons to come out of the exercise was the importance of soldiers, such as Gnr Harden, working in the new ECN 254 artillery command systems operator stream.

“Operators performed to a very high standard and contributed to the success of the exercise,” Lt-Col Sweeney said.

“With AFATDS there’s a lot of capability within it we still don’t know about, which we will learn how to use effectively mostly by using the system in our training and exercises.

“Work done inside the unit, par-ticularly by our junior officers and soldiers, has been excellent and posi-tioned the RAA well for introduction into service of Land 17 capabilities and our networked future.”

As a part of the Land 17 artillery modernisation project, AFATDS will be fully introduced into service at 8/12 Mdm Regt and other gun regiments from next year.

As the RAA starts to receive its new M777 lightweight 155mm howit-zers, Army will move closer to achiev-ing a fully digitised joint fire support and coordination system for the com-plex battlespace of the future.

New data system a blast

WHAT IS AFATDS?� AFATDS is an automated fire support command and control (C2) system and was specially designed for digital communications in order to minimise fratricide and allow seamless dynamic joint firing of many different weapons systems� It’s capable of operating with 70 military systems including command and control, sensors, counter-fire radars, observers, mete-orological, artillery howit-zers, rockets and missiles, mortar-fire control, blue-force tracking, intelligence, naval-fire control, air force planning and coalition-fire control, coordination and targeting systems. � It can be used for many purposes including battle-space planning and situ-ational awareness, battle-space management, joint fire planning and tactical and technical target analysis.� It has the ability to process hundreds of fire support requests per hour for engagement by multiple firing units and or joint-fire support platforms. - source DMO

Fired up: Gunners let rip with the big guns (above) as Gnr Ryan Harden, 101 Mdm Bty, computes the fire mission on an AFATDS terminal with Lt Matthew Seabrook checking the map within the Bushmaster PMV command post. Photos by Gnr Shane Bowden.

NSW Branch (02) 9682 1788 [email protected]

Newcastle (02) 4951 2666 [email protected]

QLD Nerang (07) 5578 2233 [email protected]

Townsville (07) 4722 4655 [email protected]

ACT Branch (02) 6255 1599 [email protected]

VIC Branch (03) 5248 0996 [email protected]

SA Branch (08) 8296 2411 [email protected]

WA Branch (08) 94096682 vvppwabranch @iprimus.com.au

Tasmania (03) 6376 2804 [email protected]

CONTACT

Up to 25% off selected clothingsports, casual & combat

02 6123 2960

Visit Military Shop65 Kembla Street Fyshwick Canberra

or www.armyshop.com.au EVERYTHING MILITARY

FRONT & CENTRE

ARMYARMYSHOPSHOPARMYSHOP

Crest Craft

MILITARY INSIGNIA

RINGS

Send stamped S.A.E. for an illustrated brochure to:CREST CRAFT

PO Box 178, Macclesfield SA 5153Phone: 08 8388 9100 or 0438 577 000

[email protected]

NAVY, RAAF, RMC Duntroon, Airfield Defence, RAAC, RAR, RAA, SAS & 1st Comm Reg also available

Cast in solid gold or silver

MilitaryMilitary PlaquesPlaques

Ph: 07 5495 8259Ph: 07 5495 8259Fax: 07 5499 1231Fax: 07 5499 1231

SPIT POLISHED PRESENTATIONSSPIT POLISHED PRESENTATIONSNEW OWNERS- Noel &Sheralyn Vellnagel

P.O. Box 1258 , Morayfi eld Qld [email protected] www.spitpolished.com.auwww.spitpolished.com.au

• History Plaques & Boxes •Sculptures Now stocking •Hat Badges •Desk Name Plates •Canes & Stands

�NEWOWNERS


By Maj Al Green

CASUALTIES needed resuscitation and evacuation drills were performed as part of 3CSSB’s care of the battle casualty exercise at Lavarack Barracks from August 16-20.

Medics and infantrymen from 3 Bde took part in realistic scenario-based training with simulated casualties for Ex Duffy Warrior.

In the training scenarios, infantry fire teams with the support of attached med-ics were engaged by enemy and the med-ics provided treatment to injured mem-bers of the team.

Lt Hollie Cahill, Close Health Platoon (CHP), said Duffy Warrior start-ed with training for evacuation crews and resuscitation teams.

“The first two days of the exercise gave medics valuable face time with sev-eral medical officers – a rare opportunity with the current RAP rhythm,” Lt Cahill said.

“1RAR soldiers assisted in basic

patrolling and clearance training which led into care-under-fire scenarios.

“These were real-time scenarios and placed the medics under extreme pres-sure in the presence of gunfire, adrena-line and battle noise which all tested the medics’ instinctive medical and military training.”

OC Health Coy Maj Elisabeth Barnett said Duffy Warrior was designed to test and develop the medical staff of CHP in the 3 Bde pilot of Close Health Spt Coy.

“The participants were involved in a week-long package of skills revision and enhancement with competency assess-ments,” Maj Barnett said.

‘It was combined with AME familiar-isation and communications training and was a great training activity as a prelude to CATA and Exercise Hamel.

“The additional support from 1RAR and 5 Avn Regt increased the training value and added to a unique experience

“We hope to boost and continue simi-lar training opportunities in the future.”

By Maj John Liston

REALISTIC feedback of mission planning was one of the major benefits for participants during the recent 13 Bde command-post exercise (CPX).

“You get to see the outcome of your appreciation and planning through a wargame,” SO1 Training Lt-Col Murray Drover said.

The CPX, held during the first week of the brigade combined-arms training activity (CATA), practised the HRR combat team’s planning and command and control.

Army Simulation Wing (ASW) provided the feedback through com-puter-processed results.

Lt-Col Drover said the combat

team and other participants benefit-ted from the exercise because they could see how the battle unfolded.

“The simulation proved whether a plan required modification or was robust enough to win the fight,” he said.

The combat team HQ used the CPX week of the CATA to establish its procedures and routines, with particular focus on disseminating timely information for battle pro-cedures.

They kept the same scenar-io deploying into phase 2, which according to Lt-Col Drover enhanced the field training during the second week near Collie.

“The company headquarters didn’t have to go through a test and

adjust period because it was already operating smoothly by the time it deployed to the field,” he said.

An ASW team travelled from Puckapunyal to run the simulation for the CPX.

“The cost of getting the simu-lation wing over to Perth was clearly worth the commitment,” Lt-Col Drover said. “The skills developed were greatly superior to those gained from a similar dura-tion tactical exercise without troops (TEWT).”

He said the realism provided by the use of simulation allowed the CPX to become more free-flowing.

“This type of training was unan-imously voted as the way of the future by the brigade’s officers.”

On the lookout: Pte Leah Mossman, 13CSSB, handles the F89 Minimi during 13 Bde’s recent command-post exercise.

13 Bde takes to the battlefield

Medics hit mark with casualties

Battle care: Cpl Matt Anderson, 3CER, is readied for evacuation under fire by medic Cpl Adam Santucc, 2RAR, and infantry section commander Cpl Josh Rayward, 1RAR. Photo by Maj Al Green

HOW TO CONTRIBUTEIf you have any training stories you would like to see in Army, send them to the editor by emailing [email protected] or, for more information, call (02) 6266 7609.

Toll Transistions now manage all your relocation requirements including:

Processing relocation allowances and entitlements.

Arranging travel and temporary accommodation.

Arranging removal and storage services.

Notifying DHA of a Member’s relocation so that they can assist with Housing.

Handy hints for your upcoming relocation

Do’s

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

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

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

Once your AFR is approved you will be given a Case Manager.

Your Case Manager is there to assist you. Call them if you need advice.

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

Provide Toll Transitions with current and alternate contact details throughout the relocation.

For general assistance or after hours assistance call our Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167.

Don’t

Wait till the last minute to lodge your Pre-AFR or AFR.

Get stressed if you are lodging online. Call us if you need assistance.

Forget to call your Case Managers if you need advice.

Lodge your AFR in hard copy unless you can’t lodge online. Remember online lodgement is Defence’s preferred lodgement method.

Remember

Your Case Manager is able to assist with any questions about the relocation process or contact our Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167 or visit www.tolltranstions.com.au

Are yourelocating over the

coming months?Some things have changed since you last moved.

Australian Capital TerritoryGround Floor, 18-20 Brindabella CircuitBrindabella Business Park ACT 2609

New South Wales, Wagga WaggaSuite B Morrow Court, 12-14 Morrow St Wagga Wagga 2650

New South Wales, Hunter ValleyUnit 7, 1 Jacaranda Avenue Raymond Terrace NSW, 2324

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

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

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

Northern Territory, DarwinLot 1, 450 Winnellie RoadWinnellie NT 0820

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

Queensland, BrisbaneLevel 6, 369 Ann St Brisbane QLD 4000

Queensland, CairnsNQX Building, 74 Lyons St Portsmith QLD 4870

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

Queensland, ToowoombaNQX, Tenancy 6, 1st Floor, 462 Ruthven St Toowoomba QLD 4350

Queensland, TownsvilleUnit 3, 24 Ross River Road Mundingburra QLD 4812

South AustraliaUnit 3, 3 Parkway, Technology Park Mawson Lakes SA 5095

Tasmania41 Evans St Hobart TAS 7000

Victoria, MelbourneLevel 8, 380 St Kilda RoadMelbourne VIC 3004

Victoria, Cerberus Building 192, Phillip Road HMAS Cerberus VIC 3920

Victoria, RiverinaLevel 2, Trotman Building, 111-113 Hume St Wodonga VIC 3690

Western Australia, FremantleLevel 1, Suite 15, 39 Adelaide St Fremantle WA 6160

Your key relocation contacts

Toll Transitions: Freecall 1800 819 167

Toll Transitions now manage all your relocation requirements including:

www.tolltransitions.com.au

FEATURES 31Army October 14, 2010

By LCpl Mark Doran

MILITARY personnel and units from across Australia, US marines and the New Zealand Army have deployed to Townsville for the build up to Exercise Hamel 2010.

The exercise will be held in northern Queensland – Townsville Field Training Area and the Tully Training Area – from October 10 to November 11.

Ex Hamel is the first for the newly created Forcomd and will involve about 87 per cent of the Army and more than 6000 personnel from Army, Navy and Air Force.

The Navy will conduct beach land-ings at Cowley Beach as part of the exer-cise, and Air Force aircraft and personnel will conduct operations from RAAF Base Townsville.

Exercise director Brig John Frewen, Forcomd, said Hamel would be a highly demanding and realistic training activ-ity that would see 3 Bde well prepared to face any challenge on the modern, com-

plex battlefield. “This exercise is a vital one for the Australian Army and in many ways is an historic event in the way we prepare troops for combat operations,” Brig Frewen said.

“It will enhance the Army’s ability to undertake operations in Australia and overseas.”

He said it would ensure every soldier of 3 Bde was as well prepared as they could be for any future contingencies.

“It represents our commitment to world-class training and making sure we stand ready to defend Australia and its national interests.”

Designed to certify the foundation war-fighting skills of HQ 3 Bde and assigned force elements, Ex Hamel will combine live-fire exercise with support from the Avn Task Gp and RAAF assets.

It will include the development of operational capabilities such as ISTAREW and the role of 6 Bde, the employment of multi-role aviation com-bat teams and close health support.

Hamel on track

Ready: Troops (above) prepare for the Army’s biggest exercise of the year.

Prepared: Comd 3 Bde Brig Stuart Smith, left, and Brig John Frewen, Forcomd (inset) oversee the build up to Ex Hamel at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. Photos by LCpl Mark Doran

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

Now, over 20 years on, DHA manages approximately 17, 300 residences around Australia and provides a range of services to help ease the pressure on Defence families – we will support you and your family throughout your tenancy, from moving in, to living in, and then moving out of your home.

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

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

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

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

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

All of your pay matters

Your housing entitlements, including Rent Allowance or Living In Accommodation

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

Arranging all your DHA housing maintenance requirements

Arranging all your uplift and delivery requirements

Determining your Conditions of Service

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

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

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

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

Booking travel and temporary accommodation for your relocation

Your relocation allowances and entitlements

DHA was established in 1988 with the aim of improving the quality and selection of housing for Defence members and their families.

Defence Housing Australia – your housing solution.

Tax Returns prepared from $99 (tax deductible)

SPECIALISING IN DEFENCE PERSONNEL TAX RETURNS

& RENTAL PROPERTIES( Negative / Positive Gearing )

We know what to claim to obtain a bigger refund for you.

TAX REFUND IN 10 DAYSFor an interview contact:

Christopher, Sue or Matthew (02) 9744 3443 or (02) 9744 5834

On Line or Phone interviews for tax returns also available for your convenienceJust post/fax/email us your Payment Summary

Email: [email protected] ................ P.O. Box 613 Burwood NSW 1805

AUSTRALIAN INVESTMENTS & ACCOUNTING

TAX RETURNSTAX RETURNS

$500 Gift Voucher on presentation & purchase

Wholesalers of Quality vehicles with 45 years experience supplying the motor trade and public.

Finance, Trade-Ins, WarrantyMullers Motor Auction

INGLEBURN NSW 02 9605 7878

Contact Morrie (Ex Soldier) on 0416 22 6660email: [email protected]

or Garth (a/h) 02 4648 0413Viewing by appointment only

www.mullersmotorauction.com

DELIVERY AUSTRALIA WIDE


What can I say about Scott that no one knows already. He was my baby.

At times he was my strength, we saw him grow from a chubby child into a young man full of strength and compassion and with a mind of his own.

Scott always believed in what he wanted to do and was determined to achieve his goals at all times.

The mother in me was alarmed when he decided to join the Army and then the commandos, but he was, once again, determined to achieve his goal and we stood by his decision.

It was a joy to see how much he loved his new life and cherished his new lifestyle and his new friends and comrades, who also became our friends and family.

Scott was always there to help when I needed it – he would listen to my complaints and my silly little prob-lems, never questioning me but just listening.

I will miss that and, at the end of it, he would just say “sweet mum” – words that mean so much now.

He was always wor-ried about the family. He was proud of his niece Gabrielle and his nephew Preston, and he wanted to hear what they were up to and he was always asking after his brother, Adam, and his dad, Ray.

He liked to know what all the family members were up to as well, and then give his input (so to speak) – he just couldn’t help himself.

Scott and Ray shared a love of sport, even though at times they had different opinions, but they both loved their rugby league and union, AFL, and cricket.

They would chat on the phone for ages, discussing who should be out of the test matches and, of course, the origin games. My son was not only our youngest, he was our mate, friend and someone who would stand by us, his mates and friends at any time. In our hearts he will always be our hero and warrior.

He loved life, and I know he will be with us always. That is the wonderful thing about memories – you sim-ply have them in your hearts forever.

Pam Palmer, mother of Pte Scott Palmer

TRIBUTE FROM A MOTHER

ACCORDING to his parents, Pte Scott Palmer would have said “don’t make a fuss” to the thou-sands who honoured him and mates Ptes Tim Aplin and Ben Chuck at a recent Katherine rugby tribute match and fundraiser day.

Pte Palmer’s parents, Pam and Ray, and brother Adam, joined 2 Cdo Regt, family and friends on September 11 to see the Katherine Brahmans invitational side draw with the University Pirates in mem-ory of the three soldiers.

The Katherine community band-ed together to celebrate and remem-ber the lives of Ptes Palmer, Aplin and Chuck, who died in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan with the Special Operations Task Group on June 21.

The match was personal for many as Pte Palmer had played

for both the Brahmans and Pirates teams.

Mrs Palmer described watching the game as “emotional and tender” and said her son would have been deeply honoured.

“Scott loved his football with a passion – it didn’t matter what it was, he loved it,” Mrs Palmer said.

“He was a team person, a fair person. A lot of Scott’s friends he grew up with played the game for him and the guys so it was very moving.”

Pte Daniel Thomlinson flew up for the tribute, taking the opportu-nity to spend some time with the Palmer family. Pte Thomlinson has credited Pte Palmer with saving his life after losing his legs in a mine incident in Afghanistan.

Hosted by the Katherine Sport

and Recreation Club, the marathon tribute day also included a golden oldies rugby match, tributes, a charity auction, barbecue and face painting.

The highly successful event raised about $45,000 to support the Commando Trust Fund,which cares for families of killed and injured 2 Cdo Regt members.

Mrs Palmer spoke highly of the support she received from Pte Palmer’s unit and the Katherine community after losing her son.

“When we first lost Scott we didn’t know where to turn, but the community backed us,” she said.

“Without the Darwin and Katherine communities during that time we would have been helpless and buckling at the knees at times.

“I can’t fault the commando unit at all.”

NT remembers lost sonsFootball was the sideline act as the Katherine community came out in force to support the families of Ptes Scott Palmer, Tim Aplin and Ben Chuck, Leonie Gall reports.

Time out: Musn Robin Kidney, AAB-Darwin, plays the Last Post at the rugby union tribute match (above) and (inset above) Pte Ben Chuck and (inset below) Pte Tim Aplin with his children Josie, 9, and Daniel, 8. Main photo by AB James Whittle

Pte Scott Palmer

A MilHOP, SKIP AND A JUMPTO A BETTER HEALTH FUTUREFor a better health service for you and your ADFteammates, participate in the MilHOP survey.

[email protected]/milhop1800 886 567

34 FEATURES Army October 14, 2010

IT WAS a once-in-a-lifetime trip for four officers and a civilian mechanic who took a road trip to London – via the vast expanses of Russia.

Team leader Maj Gary Melling, Lt-Col Dennis Littame, Lt-Col Mike Grey, Maj Mark Dominick and Louis Cadorin set off from Australia on April 27.

Three months and 24,000km later through 10 time zones the riders finished in London.

But the quest was almost over before it started. Originally, the riders were to be reunited with their

bikes in Vladivostok a week after the bikes arrived by ship. But a two-week delay at Russian customs, ship-ping and quarantine was the first snag in the plan.

Maj Melling said the bikes were delayed due to rough seas and further complicated by two major Russian holidays.

But the setbacks were never going to deter them from the dream of riding across Russia and Europe.

“We were lucky to stay with a local bike club mem-ber in Vladivostok,” Maj Melling said. “We found ourselves engaged in the Russian tradition of drinking vodka while waiting for the paperwork to be stamped.”

Unfortunately, their troubles weren’t over.On the first day, two of the bikes developed unex-

pected oil-seal failures and then the lead rider fell onto train tracks fracturing a rib.

A quality patch-up on the bikes – and the rider – and the five were on their way again inside 24 hours.

“Our team mechanic was able to perform miracles and our luck held for the remainder of the trip.

“We were planning to go though Mongolia but this was cancelled because of the unseen time delays at the start and the time left on our visas. That was really the only bad part of the trip,” Maj Melling said.

The original plan to camp out wherever possible was also cancelled after locals warned them about the potentially fatal tick encephalitis prevalent in Siberia during spring.

“The first time we left the roads the entire group fell off their bikes in the permafrost as well. After the first week we ended up sleeping mostly in small guest houses along the road that are there for the truckies.”

Even in spring the freezing temperatures meant bat-tling snowstorms. Instead of swimming in Lake Baikal (the world’s biggest freshwater lake) they stood on frozen ice and hoped to finish without further setbacks.

The best part was negotiating the language barrier. “The challenge of asking for something to eat was

great fun. Whenever we thought we had it worked out we ended up with something totally different.

“Some of our better communicators would make animal noises so the Russians could understand.”

Mr Cadorin said not everything was as difficult as the task of eating.

“It was no issue when it came to mechanical things,” he said. “Some sign language and a common goal was enough to get the job done.”

Maj Melling said the lengths the Russians went to help the group was surprising. The thing that most sur-prised was the mobile phone service.

“Some of the villages we went through were so primitive it looked like they hadn’t caught up with the rest of the world, but the one thing they all had was a mobile phone service,” he said. “We took all this tech-nology over there thinking it would be impossible to get any service but it was absolutely no problem at all. We had better service in Siberia then what is available in Canberra.”

He said despite “many challenges, freezing tem-peratures, absolutely horrible roads and the language barrier he’d do it again in a heartbeat”. He is already thinking of the next trip. “I’d like to go to Mongolia as I consider it unfinished business and also Alaska and Canada. I think the next trip will be definitely with my wife though and not quite so remote or long.”

Snowstorms, permafrost and the vast expanses of Russia couldn’t stop five Aussies on the adventure of a lifetime.

Intrepid travellers: Maj Gary Melling (team leader), left, Louis Cadorin (team mechanic), Lt-Col Mike Grey, Lt-Col Dennis Littame, Ben Campbell (wandering tourist), Matt Maloney (wandering tourist) and Maj Mark Dominick pause for a happy snap at the midway point between Vladivostok in the Russian far east and Moscow during their 24,000km trek.

Russia tests ‘easy’ riders

INCOME TAX RETURNS

BRISBANE

SPECIALISING IN INCOME TAX RETURNS FOR DEFENCE FORCE PERSONNEL

FOR OVER 20 YEARS

195 Samford Road Enoggera Qld

07 3354 393907 3355 4080austaxqld.com.au

PHONE

PHONE

WEB

Aust Army Approved Manufacturer


Over 25yrs of service to

Defence

Quality supplier Quality supplier of plaques, of plaques, trophies, trophies,

medallions, medallions, desk desk name-plates, name-plates,

glassware, glassware, hat hat badges, badges, general general

engravingengraving

Ph: 07 3408 2444Fax: 07 3408 2679

Call John NOW

UNIT PLAQUESUNIT PLAQUES& TROPHIES& TROPHIES

Looking for Photos and Information on:Imre George (Bob / Robert) Apathy

Dad died 07 August 2007 RANR SNo. F6579 enlisted Sep ‘58Army SNo. 5/38029 Pte enlisted 30 April ‘59.Commissioned June ‘67 SNo. 5/3772 DoD 18 June ‘79Vietnam July ‘71 assuming time in Canungra. Served 5 Psych Corps and worked for many years after leaving the army helping Vietnam Veterans.

Any information or photos greatly appreciated.Contact Mike Apathy 0459 172236, [email protected]


AUSTRALIAN mentors and their Afghan partners have a new patrol base to live and operate from in Uruzgan province’s dangerous Mirabad Valley.

The patrol base was constructed from the ground up over a three-week period by engineers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF 1) and the Afghan National Army (ANA).

CO MTF 1 Lt-Col Mark Jennings said the insur-gency was threatened by the impact of the patrol base.

He said insurgents had unsuccessfully attacked the base a number of times over the course of its con-struction.

“Obviously, the insurgents did not want this base to proceed and tried their hardest to slow down its construction,” Lt-Col Jennings said.

“The Mirabad Valley is a strategically important region with a history of violence in recent years.

“Combined with two nearby outposts, the base will have a significant and enduring impact on secu-rity in the Mirabad Valley and will empower the Afghan security forces to protect their communities long into the future.”

Project manager Maj Carl Miller said the local community was consulted throughout the construction process, along with key government stakeholders in Tarin Kot.

“From its inception back in April the plan was to build a ‘patrol house’ that could accommodate the ANA and coalition force presence in the Mirabad Valley,” Maj Miller said.

“And that’s what we’ve done – it’s like a big, sig-nificantly fortified house.”

The base can accommodate more than 50 people and is strengthened by a ringed perimeter fence, two guard towers and an overwatch position. It includes air-conditioning and kitchen facilities.

The base is now occupied by Australian and Afghan soldiers who are responsible for securing the Mirabad Valley.

Coalition presence in the Mirabad Valley is putting insurgents on the back foot, Maj John McPherson reports.

Building up security

Direction: Spr Jarrod Mickan supervises the unloading of a bobcat at the patrol base construction site in Afghanistan’s Mirabad Valley (above left).

Hold it: Cpl Brett Wade directs a forklift to pick up a load of Hesco barriers as construction work begins (top).

Getting there: A convoy carrying construction equipment from Multinational Base Tarin Kot through the Mirabad Valley (above).

Positive steps: An Afghan soldier crosses an aqueduct as the Australian convoy rolls through the valley (left).Photos by LS Paul Berry

If you are interested in your personal and family finances,

this is a MUST SEE!

Finding it hard to help your people with

financial issues?

ADF Financial Services Consumer CouncilADF Financial Services Consumer Council

VOLUME SIX

the DOs & DON’Ts

Helping ADF members with their finances

This film will help you.

Watch the video or order the DVD on the website

www.adfconsumer.gov.au

VOLUME SIX

the DOs &

DON’Ts

Helping ADFmembers withtheir finances

Tel: 08 9404 [email protected]

Resettlement Training

Advanced Simulator Training | Train in a working quarry

Dump Trucks | Excavators | Front End Loaders | Skid Steer Loaders ... and much more!

We’ve helped many defence personnel like you make a positive career transition. We offer:

By LCpl Mark Doran

NORTH Queensland’s Australian Army Cadets gathered at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville for their annual camp from September 18-26.

More than 400 cadets from Gladstone in the south, Cairns in the north and as far west as Mt Isa spent their school holi-days in camouflage and webbing.

Daily routine included Reveille at 6am followed by a barracks inspection, before continuing on for a full day of activities and training before lights out at 10pm.

Lt-Col Paul Ellems, CO NQAAC Bde, said the annual camp gave the cadets a range of experi-ences that developed their individual confidence and leadership potential.

“The cadets learnt how to organise their days, time-management and se l f -d isc ip l ine ,” Lt-Col Ellems said.

“At the end they walked away with a whole new range of friends and experiences that they will keep and benefit from for the rest of their lives.

“Cadet officers are commit ted to you th development and are put through a rigorous course in order to be able to train the cadets to their best potential.”

The cadets enjoyed the experience of working in a Defence environment and were able to visit a variety of units and facili-ties at Lavarack Barracks.

By Sgt Dave Morley

YEARS of dedicated and dif-ficult work locating and recov-ering the remains of missing Australian soldiers and airmen from Vietnam and Borneo have received official recognition.

A r m y h i s t o r i a n M a j Jack Thurgar received a CA Commendation in front of his family and AHQ staff at a cere-mony at Russell Offices on August 19.

CA Lt-Gen Gillespie said Maj Thurgar had done a wonderful thing for the nation with his work.

“I know the families have already thanked you, but we are now thanking you today,” he said.

Maj Thurgar said he was hum-bled by the unexpected award.

“I’ve done this work as a labour of love and thank the CA for giving me the opportunity to carry out these important investi-gations,” he said.

“In my wildest dreams I never

thought I’d get the chance to carry out these inquiries in my lifetime, and that’s what helped drive me to be successful in all these cases.”

Maj Thurgar said his previous Australian Federal Police experi-ence had helped with his investi-gations.

“I conducted all the inquiries along normal police investigative lines,” he said.

“I was cognisant of the fact that all the evidence I collected had to be of the highest standard for the coroners in the respective jurisdictions where the returned members were being buried in Australia.”

All six of Australia’s Vietnam MIAs have now been returned to Australia as well as the two MIAs from the confrontation with Indonesia.

Maj Thurgar served in PNG and Vietnam with SASR and completed four tours of Cyprus as a federal police officer with UNCIVPOL.

By Tony Job

ARMY members can expect to see improvements in the removal pro-cess under a new contract with Toll Transitions.

Improvements include the introduc-tion of a smaller carton kit for removals by recruits and trainees.

The new contract began on July 1.“The new micro-carton kit is to be

used primarily for single recruits and students to pack their clothing and other personal items,” said Relocations and Housing Director Alan McClelland.

He said the new micro-carton kit would include one port-a-robe, four tea-chests, two book cartons, 25 sheets of

packing paper, a roll of tape and a black marker.

“This will make the quantity of pack-ing materials more realistic with the actual needs of the members and reduce the amount of waste that has been evi-dent under past practices,” he said.

Other improvements include an increased presence by Toll officers at the removal uplift and delivery to provide greater supervision of the contractor’s performance.

Mr McClelland said there were no changes to the existing standard carton kits and mini-carton kits used by ADF members undertaking a removal.

Contact Toll Transitions on 1800 819 167 for more information on entitlements to carton kits.

In the box seat at removal time

PERSONNEL 37Army October 14, 2010

Happy cadet campers

By Capt Christian Thurecht

UNITS panelling sol-diers for JLC from January 1, 2011, will need to ensure that soldiers are Private Proficient and AIRN compliant before attending on the course.

This requirement will affect units nominat-ing soldiers this year for course sessions that occur in 2011.

For all soldiers, JLC is the foundation train-ing experience for their careers as an NCO.

For this reason Army has formalised the JLC training entry level to further improve the already high standard of our junior leaders.

The JLC Training Management Package is being amended to for-mally reflect these pre-requisites.

Further information on the JLC prerequisites and the guide to the JLC panelling process is at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/Sites/WONCOWing. Select the link entitled JLC.

Reward for keen searcher

Changes to JLC criteria

Well deserved: Maj Jack Thurgar receives his CA Commendation from Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie in recognition of his efforts at finding and recovering MIAs.

Learning the ropes: Sgt Steve Berry, 11CSSB PTI, shows North Queensland cadets how to traverse a rope during the annual camp at Lavarack Barracks. Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

38 LIFESTYLE Army October 14, 2010

Travel Insurance

Wherever you’re heading on holiday, don’t forget your travel insurance. Take a look at Defence Health Travel

Insurance before buying from your travel agent. We offer a comprehensive cover at a really competitive price.

We think you’ll get a better deal from Defence Health.

Check us out now. Call and speak to a consultant on 1800 102 994 or visit www.defencehealth.com.au

for an online quote.

This information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement in deciding whether to acquire this product. You may wish to seek independent advice. This product is underwritten by American Home Assurance Company (ABN 67 007 483 267, AFSL 230903) trading in Australia as Chartis. Defence Health receives remuneration of 20% of all premiums you pay to Chartis. The Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement may be obtained by calling 1800 102 994 or downloaded from www.defencehealth.com.au

Your tour

PEOPLE

Driving force: Pte Drew Abbott, Op Astute, (left) drives home the point that his job as a ‘truckie’ with 8/9RAR is taking him places in his Army career. Photo by AB Jo Dilorenzo

In the weeds: LCpl Dirk Thompson, 2RAR, prepares for the 3 Bde firepower demonstration at the Townsville Field Training Area during CATA 10. Photo by LCpl Mark Doran

On guard: Tpr Ross Spencer, Op Anode, conducts a routine perimeter patrol of the Rove Central Correctional Centre in Solomon Islands.

Photo by AB Jo Dilorenzo

Hard yards: Pte James McDermott evacuates Cpl Matt Anderson during Exercise Duffy Warrior conducted by Health Coy 3 CSSB. Photo by Maj Al Green

DMO DMO MILITARY RESERVESexciting opportunities Australia wide!

LEAD TWICE THE LIFE

Exciting opportunities are available for Military Reservists in the following trades/ specialisations: » Project Managment » Logistics » Finance » Administration » Technical Trades » Engineering (mechanical & electrical) » Aircrew

DEFENCE MATERIEL ORGANISATION | www.dmojobs.gov.au or call 1800 DMO JOBS (1800 366 562)

TRANSITION SUPPORT

��

www.nextjobnow.com.au Call 1300 112 114

• �� • �� • �� • �� • �� • !�"�� • #�$�%&'(�� #)*��"��+��• �� $��• ��"$��"��

+�� "�� ,,�-�"��"��./� ��.��

��

��

� ��

�� !"�� #�! !�!��

�#� �� $�!��

�%&�'��&�(� ��

)��$�* �� +��,��-��$��. ��-�� -�/�,�-�#�+��0�/��1 ��$�$��$��

2� *�� !&�� '�*��..��3��,��0��

�� $��$��$��&�� *�2� �� 2� *��

LIFESTYLE 39 Army October 14, 2010

� Say again, over

If you can think of a clever, witty caption for this picture, email [email protected] with “caption competition October 14” in the subject line. Keep entries under 25 words. Entries MUST include sender’s name, rank and unit.

We also liked ...

“But the fording depth marker is still above the marker.”WO2 Darrin Neale6 Avn Regt

DIKKO By Bob Dikkenberg

BOOKS

“Not again, Timo, you only just got your licence back!”Pte Mark Bryant9FSB

“Unfortunately, sidestroke proved to be the weakest stroke in the new amphibious trials conducted as part of Land 121 trials for Unimogs this week.” Sgt Royce AllenSchool of Arty

“Corporal, I think I have flooded the engine.”Capt Paul JacobsenADF Dental School

The September 30 winner is ...

“Well you did say the Unimog could go anywhere.”

and

“RAEME are going to be annoyed now.”Const Jason NoreenBankstown Police Station

To SalamauaPhillip BradleyCambridge University Press384 pagesRRP AUD$59.95

AUTHOR and historian Phillip Bradley’s To Salamaua marks the fifth instalment of the official Australian Army History Series and follows the author’s acclaimed book, The Battle for Wau.

It is the first in the series to cover the northern New Guinea battles.

Launched by CA Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie on September 30 during the Army History Conference, To Salamaua covers the entire cam-paign in one volume for the first time.

From the strategic background of the campaign and the heated con-flicts to the mud and blood of the front lines, the book documents what effectively became a diversionary campaign.

Lt -Gen Gi l lesp ie sa id To Salamaua catalogued an “extraor-dinary campaign” to keep enemy forces at Salamaua until the Lae

New Guinea features in Army history series

invasion and then followed the cam-paign to the final advance to close and destroy the Japanese.

“It is a book that reinforces the Australian Army’s proud history and the quality of the troops who fought the Japanese on Australia’s doorstep, even if that campaign was a sideline to a more decisive action at Lae,” Lt-Gen Gillespie said.

The author himself argued that the strategy was maintained by keeping many of the lower levels of command ignorant that they were engaged in what was only a feint.

“There can be few examples in military history of a campaign that went as long as the Salamaua cam-paign where the overriding objective was not to be victorious but only to hold the main enemy forces in place,” Mr Bradley said.

The author was not available to launch his book personally due to a commitment trekking with ADFA cadets to the battlefield at Wau.

The CA applauded Mr Bradley’s passion as proof that the history and the stories of the New Guinea bat-tlefields were not forgotten.

“Phillip Bradley’s description of the Salamaua campaign is written with the sensitivity and understand-ing of an historian who has exten-sively trekked the area to view the locations he writes about,” Lt-Gen Gillespie said.

To Salamaua continues the part-nership between the Australian Army and publishers Cambridge University Press. The series is edited by Prof David Horner.

With every 3or more fullsized replicamedals court

mounted

Don’t RiskYour Original

Medals!FFFFFuuuuull sll sll sll sll sizizizizize re re re re reeeeeppppplicalicalicalicalicammmmmeeeeedddddaaaaallllls os os os os onnnnnlllllyyyyy

$20.00$20.00$20.00$20.00$20.00+ m+ m+ m+ m+ mououououounnnnntttttinininining cg cg cg cg cooooossssstttttsssss

WWWWWe se se se se suuuuupppppppppply aly aly aly aly allllll fl fl fl fl fuuuuullllll size al size al size al size al size and mnd mnd mnd mnd miiiiinnnnniaiaiaiaiatttttuuuuurrrrre mee mee mee mee medddddaaaaals, rls, rls, rls, rls, ribibibibibbbbbbooooonnnnns,s,s,s,s,clclclclclaaaaaps aps aps aps aps and rnd rnd rnd rnd ribibibibibbbbbbooooon bn bn bn bn baaaaarsrsrsrsrs

40 LIFESTYLE Army October 14, 2010

HEALTH

WHILE some injuries can’t be pre-vented, the risk of developing com-mon overuse injuries can be reduced with proper physical training.

Here are three injuries common to ADF personnel and tips on how to avoid them.

Shin splintsShin splints normally occur when

someone who hasn’t run much for a while begins to pound the pavement. It is actually a blanket term for a number of conditions and you should always get your condition properly diagnosed. However, from a fitness perspective the recommendations are all pretty much the same.

To avoid shin splints:

� Build up slowly: If you haven’t run for a while, don’t start running 10km every day. Run 3-5km two or three times a week and steadily increase your volume.

� Get new shoes: Even if your runners look fi ne, if they are more than 12 months old or you wear them all the time, the cushioning will have compressed and they won’t be absorbing the shock as well as they used to.

� If you have fl at feet or orthotics,

make sure your shoes are suitable for your foot type.

� Run mostly on soft surfaces. The human body wasn’t designed to run long distances on concrete.

You don’t have to run to develop good fi tness and, if you have feet issues, old injuries or are heavier than average, you should limit your weekly running and develop your fi tness through metabolic conditioning workouts or alternatives such as rowing.

Lower back painA strong and fatigue-resistant back

is your best defence against acute lower back injuries and chronic pain.

To strengthen your back, incor-porate deadlifting into your fitness program. The deadlift is the number-one exercise for developing all of your back side and core strength, and its benefits extend well beyond the lower back, to the legs, arms and grip. Add three sets of five reps of deadlifts to your weights workouts and your lower back will thank you.

For developing endurance, kettle-bell swings are my first choice. Like the deadlift, they give you a great return on your time as they develop lower-back endurance, leg power and cardio fitness all in one hit.

Let’s face it, the military is a high-risk job. Long hours and hard physical work can take their toll, Don Stevenson reports.

Get a grip on injuries

No worries: Warming up before any sport will help reduce the risk of common injuries.

Throw them into your circuits or perform multiple sets of 20 to 50 reps with short breaks between sets.

Add some odd-object lifting for all-round core strength, and some ab work, and chances are you’ll avoid chronic lower-back pain.

Shoulder injuriesShoulder injuries are often a result

of an overemphasis on chest training, a lack of back work to balance the

chest work or poor shoulder flexibility. To develop strong, stable and healthy shoulders, try the following:

� Turkish getup: This is an ideal prehabil i tat ion exercise that strengthens all the small muscles that stabilise the shoulder during pushing and pulling exercises.

� Balance pushing with pulling: If you are working on your bench press or pushup numbers, that’s

fine – just don’t forget to add an equal or greater amount of pulling work such as chin-ups and rows so your chest doesn’t overpower your back and you end up with a tight shoulder girdle.

� Stretch your shoulders and chest after each upper-body workout.

For more information on any of these exercises or advice on program design and training, con-tact [email protected]

PEACEKEEPER COMBAT BOOT

“ This Boot Will Not Declare War

On Your Feet “

Defence Approved

Mil Price $257

Crossfi re ( Aust ) P/L

www.crossfi re.com.auinfo@crossfi re.com.au

(02)4842 2677

• Extractors• Performance Exhausts• Standard Mufflers &

Brakes• Shocks & Suspension

• Car Servicing• Road Worthy Certificate

44 Pickering StEnoggera

Ph: 3355 3455‘we’ll beat any price’

RÉSUMÉS

TEL: (02) 9948 5518

A good résumé is halfthe battle in getting

an interview!Have it preparedby a professional

Personnel Consultantand Lecturer.

Interview advice provided.

Established 25 yearsRÉSUMÉ + COVER LETTER $250

www.mildwaterandassociates.com

Ex Army & Honorary Memberformer HMAS PLATYPUS

Wardroom

Servicing and Repairs

-Dyno Tuning-Petrol and Diesel-Turbo Upgrades-Performance Tuning -10% Discount for Serving Military Members

17 Nile St WoolloongabbaPH 3393 1588

CLASSIFIEDS

A uniqueexperience

Showroom:65 Kembla Street

Fyshwick Canberra

02 6123 2950 militaryshop.com.au

Thousands ofproducts available

MILITARY SHOP

Advertise your business here from only $39.60 per edition

[email protected] 3332 7651

Why Pay more to get your

entitlements?Military Military

CompensationCompensation

•Experienced Solicitor

•Former Defence member (22 years)

•Contact Dean Wright

•Free call 1300 174 247

Wright Lawyers and Associates

ww

w.w

rightlawyersandassociates.com

SPORT 41 Army October 14, 2010

3 Bde takes to the track

Champion female: 1. Sgt Nicola Turner, 3CSSB, 25; 2. Pte Natalie Whyte, 10FSB, 23; 3. LCpl Jessica Antonovich, CMU, 23; 4. Cpl Natalie Parsons, 10FSB, 21.

Champion male: 1. Capt Rory Hale, 10FSB, 31; 2. Pte Stephen Brown, CMU, 20; LBdr Jon Anu, 4 Fd Regt, 19; 4. Pte Damien Moyle, 1RAR, 18.

Champion unit – female: 1. 10FSB, 95; 2. 3CSSB, 88; 3. CMU, 83; 4. 3CSR, 83; 5. 2RAR, 44; 6. 3CER, 41; 7. 4 Fd Regt, 25; 8. 1RAR, 14.

Champion unit – male: 1. 4 Fd Regt, 104; 2. 1RAR, 79; 3. CMU, 76; 4. 3CSSB, 74; 5, 10FSB 73; 6. 2RAR, 69; 7. 3CER, 67; 8. 3CSR 47.

RESULTS

By LCpl Mark Doran

COMPETING in the 3 Bde athlet-ics carnival, held on September 23 at the Townsville Sports Reserve, gave soldiers a chance to down tools.

Events were eagerly contested and spectators engaged in some vocal support with the traditional inter-unit banter.

The 4 Fd Regt cheer squad was in full swing, being the loudest unit on the night.

4 Fd Regt took out the trophy for the champion men’s team with 10FSB winning the champion wom-en’s team.

The champion male was Capt Rory Hale, 10FSB, with Sgt Nicola Turner, 3CSSB, crowned the cham-pion female.

3 Bde sports officer Maj Gary Jiear said the athletes had lit-tle chance to train for the events let alone conduct trials to choose a team, though each unit fielded mem-bers in all events and the standard of competition was high.

“The tempo of 3 Bde contin-ues with most of the personnel just returning from the combined arms training activity and getting ready to once again head field for Exercise Hamel,” Maj Jiear said.

The night was crowned with the running of the chain-of-command 6x100m relay and provided maxi-mum entertainment with some glimpses of sporting prowess.

Not a lot of rules were present and no points were involved in this race.

Initially it was a close-fought bat-tle between 4 Fd Regt and 1RAR with the team from 3CER eventually taking out the chain-of-command relay, CO ‘Twinkle-toes Hoskin’ who was the anchor man, bringing the race home.

Maj Jiear made special mention of 3CSSB men and women who not only competed strongly but organ-ised and coordinated the event.

“With 2010 still not over the last of the sporting events for the year will be the obstacle course challenge to be contested on November 29,” he said

“Being the last of the annual commander’s trophy events, it will surely be very keenly contested, with the trophy up for grabs by up to four units.”

Hang time: Pte Damien Moyle, 1RAR, leaps 6.06m to win the long jump.

Hard yards: Pte Natalie Cessford, 3CSSB, crosses the line to win the womens’ 400m.

Big throw: Sgt Clancy Fallon, 5 Avn Regt, takes a throw in the men’s discus.Bm

I think I can: Sig Anna Canisius, 3CSR, leaps to victory in the women’s high jump with a jump of 148cm. Photos by LCpl Mark Doran

normally $85

$55BUY NOWBUY NOW

Get your Australian Flag for just

SPECIAL OFFER

Carroll & Richardson - Flagworld Pty Ltd ABN 89 050 021 66622 - 24 Miles St, Mulgrave 3170 Australia T 03 9566 4500 F 03 9560 3235

CODE NO. SPA1www.flagworld.com.au/specialoffer

V8www.facebook. com/ mynewv8

Pride in your colours?Hi Profile can put your

Company/corps/battalioncolours onto:

Call Col [the boss] on:

orjust and see

what we can do

� End of year / TOD commemorative

� Team shirts� Hats caps� Bags etc

07 3846 5455

google Hi Profile

42 SPORT Army October 14, 2010

By Phil Mayne

SEVENTY of the ADF’s best road cyclists travelled to South Australia last month to contest the ADF National Road Cycling Championships.

The annual carnival comprised three events – a 40km time trial, 87.5km road race and 40-minute criterium – in A-, B- and C-grade men and a women’s category. Results were pretty well split among the three services.

Organiser Flt-Lt Drew Abbott described it as the best championships held in the ADF club’s history.

“Adelaide was a great location to hold the championships. Times and average speeds were comparable to that of the South Australian state time trial held ear-lier this year on the same course,” he said.

The men’s A-grade field was very com-petitive and Capt Gary Kristensen, Army Aviation Training Centre, was anxious to defend his 2009 time-trial title.

A third in the Queensland state time trial gave him confidence he had form leading up to the event. As it turned out, he left numerous competitors in his wake to claim his second title.

In B- and C-grades there was a close battle for placings. Cpl Peter Smith, 110 Bty, won by just seconds in B-grade while LCdr Michael Devine had the same close win in C-grade.

As she ended up doing in all three races, RAAF Cpl Fiona Parslow domi-nated the women’s race.

The following day saw the 87.5km road race.

Flt-Lt Abbott said all participants were dreading the hill climb known as Whispering Wall.

“It is a short, but steep climb which the A-graders had to ascend seven times.”

After 87 tough kilometres the race ended in a sprint to the finish. Flt-Lt Damon Stefani took line honours with PO Dion Blair second and RAAF Cpl Chris Holbert third.

Pte Andrew Cochrane, 6RAR, flew the flag for Army, winning the men’s B-grade.

On the third and final day the leg-weary riders tackled the Criterium.

“It didn’t help matters that there was a constant drizzle over the course when riders arrived to prepare, but luckily the course dried out before the start,” Flt-Lt Abbott said.

“Immediately after the A-graders crossed the start line, Sgt Michael Rand (RAAF) broke off from the pack, but he was reeled in after 12 laps.

“When the final lap bell was rung the pack was together. Sgt Rand dug deep once again and pushed off the front to form a five-second lead.”

Sgt Rand held off the sprinters to claim the Criterium, ahead of Flt-Lt Damon Stefani and APS rider Nathan Herrmann.

Capt Kristensen finished second in men’s A-grade for the championships over-all, while Cpl Peter Smith and Pte Andrew Cochrane placed second and third in men’s B-grade.

Sig Nicole Merritt, 16 AD Regt, and Capt Julie Venning, LWC, rode strongly, placing behind the dominant Cpl Parslow.

MEN’S A-GRADE MEN’S B-GRADE

1st Flt-Lt Damon Stefani 1st LCdr Simon Moore

2nd Capt Gary Kristensen 2nd Cpl Peter Smith

3rd Cpl Chris Holbert 3rd Pte Andrew Cochrane

MEN’S C-GRADE WOMEN

1st LCdr Daniel Crocker 1st Cpl Fiona Parslow

2nd LCdr Michael Devine 2nd Sig Nicole Merritt

3rd AC Joel Anderson 3rd Capt Julie Venning

ARMY’S NSW lawn bowlers have begun their resurgence to wrestle back the mantle of state champions with a sound performance at the NSW Interservice Lawn Bowls Championships.

Conducted at Raymond Terrace Bowls Club from August 16-20, the team approached the champion-ships as an opportunity to rebuild and came away with some encouraging results.

The first match looked a difficult assignment with Army up against a Navy team comprising many play-ers in the ADF national squad. However, Army dis-played magnificent fighting spirit only to be edged out in two of the three rinks.

Dave Martin, Michael Morris and Tony McGregor were skippered by 2004 national championship player of the series Dennis Roff and went down 21-18.

The rink of Paul Dowlan, Arron Ryan, Tony Finneran and skipped by Murray Lott had a tough bat-tle only to lose the last end, and the game 19-17, with some excellent bowling by the Navy skipper.

The third rink of Rick Beer, Brian Harris, Scott Beaumont and Brian Tisdell met strong opposition and finally went down 23-11. The overall scoreboard showed a Navy win of by 17 shots; however, Army’s fight back and rebuilding campaign were evident and a vast improvement on last year’s effort.

RAAF won comfortably against Navy in the next match and were expected to make it a clean sweep against Army. However, Dennis Roff’s team played superbly to defeat their opponents 19-11.

The other two rinks weren’t successful with the total scores favouring RAAF by 24 shots and securing them the NSW interservice trophy. Tony Finneran was judged Army skipper’s choice for most outstanding Player of the tournament.

The margin wasn’t a true indication of Army’s performance; however, it did confirm their regrouping plan was working with the team eagerly anticipating the 2011 playoffs.

NSW Army lawn bowls team is still seeking permanent or active part-time members and public servants working for an Army unit in NSW to join their team. Contact WO1 Ian Groves by email [email protected].

RESULTS

Bowlers roll on towards resurgence

Resurgence: Sgt Arron Ryan, A Fd Bty, is part of the regrowth of Army lawn bowls.

Cyclists hit AdelaideMixed results for Army

Best shot: ADF cyclists turn in “the best championships” in ADF club history.

Winning style: Capt Gary Kristensen, Army Avn Trg Centre, works for his silver medal.

www.thesupplementden.com.auPhone: 1800 111 445

Great ValueUse promo code df2010 for an instant 5% off your order at the checkout. All orders over $300 will receive a FREE training shirt or singlet*

Great Service�� personal trainers with unbiased opinions (we do not make our own supplements!)

Great GuaranteeAll orders shipped within 24hours** or you will receive a credit for $20

3 GREAT REASONS

* subject to availability, please leave size in customer comments**guarantee doesn’t apply to public holidays or weekends from Fri 2pm & is subject to payment clearance

www.bluetonguecampers.com.au

Available colours:

Aussie Built Trailer

AUSAUSTRAILER

Fitted Gas Strut Kit Full RHS Chassis

RHS

7 Leaf Springs

715” Alloy Wheels

Full Off Road Camper Trailer Deluxe - Features:

Dark Grey / Light Grey Blue / Beige Green / Beige

wwwFull off road and Semi off road models available in standard or deluxe versions to suit any budget, starting from $4,150.

All models have a 12’ tent including a fully enclosed annex with detachable walls and floor, additional annexes available.

For more information download a brochure at www.bluetonguecampers.com.au or visit us at:14/4 Ethell Rd, KIRRAWEE NSW Ph: 02 8544 097628 Depot Rd, DUBBO NSW Ph: 02 6882 032277 Myrtle St, MYRTLEFORD VIC Ph: 03 5752 12575 / 26-38 Miller St, EPPING VIC Ph: 03 9408 0787

SPORT 43 Army October 14, 2010

By Michael Brooke

ARMY Thunder defeated rival Navy and Air Force teams, plus two rugby league legends to win the Combined Australian Services Rugby League Carnival (CASRL) at Victoria Barracks, Sydney, from September 7-October 1.

The Thunder crushed the Navy Tridents 52-36 and shot down the high-flying Air Force Jets 32-18 to notch their sixth successive title.

The Thunder opened its cam-paign with a victory over the Navy Tridents, who played with great pride and passion after motivational speeches from league legends Max Krilich from Manly and ‘Blocker’ Roach from Balmain.

Both forward packs battered each other relentlessly, but it was out wide, through wily halfback Cpl Chad Gill and five-eighth Pte Keith Eshman where, the Thunder cut the Navy to pieces.

As a former Balmain Tiger pre-mier league and NRL player in

2006, Pte Eshman played superbly throughout the CASRL.

The Army backline ran riot thanks to Pte Eshman’s kicking and passing game, which saw him continually break the defensive line with dummy passes or cut-out pass-es to his outside backs.

Team captain Cpl Gill was also on song with his goal kicking to help the Thunder turn a 28-6 half-time lead into a 52-36 win.

However, Navy scored five quick tries after a ‘rev up’ from Krilich and Roach and appeared close to springing an upset when Army scored in the dying minutes to put the game beyond doubt.

Army endured another close call against the Air Force Jets, who led 6-4 for most of the first half until Cpl Gill and Pte Eshman clicked into gear to engineer a 16-6 lead.

A half-time pep talk from Comd Forcomd Lt-Gen David Morrison, helped the Thunder’s forwards lift another gear, which gave Cpl Gill and Pte Eshman the opportunities

they needed to create three more tries for a 32-18 fulltime score.

However, the turning point came early in the second half when Army fullback Pte Mahn Darley scored a 98m intercept try, when Air Force appeared likely to score, which would have made the score 16-12.

Army team manager Capt Kieran Sullivan said the Thunder’s triumph was impressive because of the num-ber of new faces in the team.

“The boys really dug deep to defeat the Navy and Air Force, which have both shown a lot of improvement in the last couple of years,” he said.

Capt Sullivan said the unsung hero of the team was coach Maj Al Lynch while the best players were Pte Eshman, back-rowers LCpl Dan Halliday, Gnr Chad Jansen, Cpl Pat Inskip and Pte Mahn Darley.

Capt Sullivan said Army was on the lookout for additional players for upcoming matches.

Army thunders to six in a row

Offload: Spr Mitchell Kaminski gets a pass away (above) in the game against Air Force Jets at the Combined Australian Services Rugby League Carnival while Pte Mahn Darley takes a high ball with some help from his teammates (right). Photos by LAC Aaron Curran

October 14, 2010

THUNDER ON FIRE

LCpl Daniel Halliday tries to bust through the Navy defence as Thunder makes it six titles in a row at the combined services rugby league carnival.

See page 43

Documents

P14-15 FFIRE FORIRE FOR EEFFECTFFECT · P14-15 P33 FFIRE FORIRE FOR EEFFECTFFECT ... Capital Fine Print. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed