FORCEAIRVol. 50, No. 9, May 29, 2008 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

BURMA DROP

�Fincastle fever – P3 �Budget boost – P4 �Bersama action – centre

36SQN delivers aid in Operation Nargis Assist

GLOBAL NETWORK: Burmese military personnel help the RAAF

crew unload humanitarian aid from a 36SQN Globemaster at Mingaladon

Airport in Burma as part of Operation Nargis Assist. Photo by Rob Davis,

Australian Embassy, BurmaRELIEF PUSH: Below right, 1AOSS

air movements personnel load cargo on to the aircraft at RAAF Base

Richmond. Photo by SGT William Guthrie

By FLGOFF Eamon Hamilton

A GLOBEMASTER from 36SQN has spearheaded the Australian humanitarian relief response to Cyclone Nargis in Burma this month.

Operation Nargis Assist, launched on May 10, called on the ADF to support an Australian Government humanitarian response to the cyclone, which is estimated to have killed more than 100,000 people in the south-east Asian country.

UN agencies and the International Red Cross estimate that another 2.5 million Burmese have been severely affected follow-ing the cyclone.

A RAAF Globemaster was the first of its type to touch down in Burma when it landed on May 13, carrying 31 tonnes of humani-tarian aid and a mobile airlift team from No. 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron (1AOSS).

While Operation Nargis Assist follows a steady line of short-notice ADF disaster relief tasks, the mission to Burma presented a fresh series of challenges and hurdles to the Air and Space Operations Centre (AOC) and the Air Mobility Control Centre (AMCC).

Key among these was the strict diplomatic requirements on allowing a foreign aircraft into Burma. WGCDR Richard Pizzuto, Chief of Combat Operations at the AOC, said care-ful negotiation was required by the AOC to meet the diplomatic requirements of the host nation.

“We got in there as soon as we were allowed by the Burmese authorities,” WGCDR Pizzuto said.

“From a diplomatic clearance process it was quite complex; it required five different countries to give us diplomatic clearance, however we received a high degree of sup-port from our partners in the region to get us there.

“It was quite an intense planning itera-tion, with lots of complexities to be resolved in short-time, and ultimately it produced good results.”

WGCDR Pizzuto sang the praises of the Globemaster in supporting Operation Nargis Assist. “This is one of the roles that the C-17A is well-suited for – carrying bulk items long distances in very quick order,” he said.

Continued Page 2

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2 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

Commendation winners

You are the best in the worldCAF Commendation – Gold� WGCDR Damien Balkin – for

outstanding performance as CO 38SQN.

� LTCOL Murray Lott – for out-standing performance as CO of the Defence International Training Centre (DITC).

� SQNLDR Kristine Johnston – for outstanding performance as Staff Officer 2B – Personnel at HQSRG.

� Mr Neal Cotgrove – for outstand-ing performance as manager of a support section within the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit.

DCAF Commendation – Bronze � Miss Christine Tancred – for her

dedicated and professional man-ner in carrying out her duties in organising various official events sponsored by AFHQ.

ACAUST Commendation – Silver� WGCDR Krista Thompson – for

outstanding performance as the CO of No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit in support of Operation Deluge from August 31 to September 10, 2007.

Greetings Airmen and Airwomen of the Air Force.

In this article, I express my enor-mous pride from my travels to Gallipoli and the MEAO and also when watching our Air Force rugby union team play. These moments make me remember why it is that I joined such a wonderful organisation as the Air Force.

As I have said many times, the Air Force has the best airmen and airwomen in the world. I believe that no airman or airwoman wakes up in the morning and consciously declares that today is the day they are going to have a bad day. All of you apply yourselves 100 per cent each time you come to work. This was no more evident than in the areas that I am about to describe.

Firstly, the contingent that sup-ported the 2008 Gallipoli events under the command of the Detachment Commander, WGCDR Kirrily Dearing, ably assisted by the Detachment Warrant Officer, WOFF Jason Van Rysbergen. The detachment contained members of the Australian Federation Guard and the Air Force Band. Not only were the members great ambassadors for the ADF but they were most profes-sional in the tasks that they performed. Having spoken to most of them, I found that the camaraderie among them was second to none.

I was proud of them and I thank them for a task well done.

After Gallipoli, I travelled to the

MEAO visiting the Hercules and Orion detachments. Again, I left their loca-tions feeling very proud. They are very professional and, although each day may appear to be ‘ground hog day’, they get on with the tasks at hand and smile.

In the last AIR FORCE News was a photo of the hard working ‘techos’ at the Orion detachment. That photo means a lot to me in that the Aussie larrikin is still there (one of the members wore his helmet in the photo).

To all of the men and women at both detachments – thank you for taking the time to speak to me and making my visit most memorable.

Lastly, to the men who represented us on May 18 in the game of rugby union against the Navy – a hearty well done. These men gave it their all and played some very enterprising and tough rugby.

Although they led at one stage, just after half-time, the Navy eventually took the honours in a very hard-fought game – 20 to 31. Thank you for a great exhibi-tion of tough teamwork rugby, and all the best with your future games.

The pride in our rugby team was strongly felt, so strong in fact, that the only conversation with my mother-in-law, Carmel, and my wife, Sheryl, in the car going home was about the game.

Finally, I would like to congratulate the personnel listed right, for their well-deserved commendations.

’Till next time, please keep on smiling.

Air Mail Warrant Officer of the Air Force WOFF-AF Ray Woolnough, AM

� SQNLDR David Campbell – for outstanding performance when, through his exceptional navigational and professional knowledge, he was instrumental in preventing the loss of a civil Cessna-172 aircraft.

� FLTLT Daina Jurkans – for out-standing performance as an intelligence officer at 92 Tactical Intelligence Flight within 87SQN from January to June, 2007.

� FLGOFF Matthew Spark – for exemplary performance as the Staff Officer-3 technical capability gov-ernance at HQSRG.

� FSGT Stephen Wickham – for exemplary performance as the SNCOIC of No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit armament section.

� SGT Jamie Bordiuk – for outstand-ing performance as a SNOIC at 36SQN.

� SGT Katherine Williamson – for

outstanding performance as a member of the 87SQN imple-mentation team and as SNCO of 87SQN administration and logistics section.

� Mrs Suzanne Hellyer – for outstanding performance as a steward at DITC.

ACAUST Commendation – Bronze� FLTLT Kathryn Jay – for out-

standing performance as the manager of 41WG Air Battle Management Coordination Centre during Operation Deluge.

� SGT Shane Janke – for out-standing performance as the SNCO personnel at 37SQN.

� SGT Andrew Maddison – for outstanding performance as the SNCO technical surveil-lance and countermeasures at 462SQN.

� SGT Janette Taylor – for out-standing performance as the SNCO personnel at 37SQN.

� CPL Suzanne Harvey (now SGT) – for outstanding per-formance as a geospatial imagery intelligence analyst with 87SQN Air Mobility Tactical Intelligence Flight.

� CPL Clayton Jones – for outstanding performance as an NCO within the Electronic Combat Flight at 462SQN.

� Mr John Vickers – for out-standing performance as the Air Force Exercise and Minor Operations desk officer at HQ Air Command.

From Page 1Operation Nargis Assist’s initial

stage called for the Globemaster to be placed at 12 hours notice to move – a goal it achieved when it left RAAF Base Amberley on the morning of May 11.

The aircraft first flew to RAAF Base Richmond, where air move-ments personnel wasted no time loading pallets of Defence and AusAID-supplied humanitarian relief – including water, shelters and blankets.

Elsewhere at Richmond, staff at the AMCC worked around the clock to provide mission support and planning for the Globemaster crew, who were flying into a coun-try rarely visited by the RAAF.

WGCDR Bill Kourelakos,

Deputy Director of the AMCC, said: “Coordinating this task required a myriad of short-notice changes which we overcame, and the dedication of AMCC staff was key to the success of the mission.”

With the Globemaster cleared to land in Burma on May 13, the aircraft delivered its cargo of humanitarian aid at Mingaladon Airport in the capital of Rangoon.

The Australian Ambassador to Burma, Bob Davis, was among those who met the aircraft at Mingaladon.

A crowd of more than 100 peo-ple unloaded the Globemaster’s humanitarian load by hand, while more than 300 people at the air-field watched the operation.

Special Special deliverydelivery

HELPING HANDS: Above, Burmese military personnel and locals turn out to help the C-17’s crew unload the first cargo of Australian humanitarian aid in the wake of the devastation from Cyclone Nargis. Photo by Bob Davis, Australian Embassy, BurmaWELCOME: Right, BRIGGEN Zin Yaw, commander of Mingaladon Air Base, shakes hands with 36SQN pilot FLTLT Dean Bolton after the RAAF’s Globemaster landed. Photo by FLTLT Matthew Nunn

Aussie aid arrives in Burma

3NewsAIR FORCE May 29, 2008

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EXERCISE Pitch Black 2008 (EX PB08) is ramping up again this year in Aus-tralia’s far north.

It is the Air Force’s larg-est and most complex air exercise that enables the ADF to train with interna-tional air forces once every two years.

PB08 will be conducted from June 6-27, drawing a large multi-national contin-gent to exercise all forces in the tasking, planning and execution of offensive coun-ter air and offensive air sup-port operations in a coalition environment.

RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal will provide home basing for forces during the exercise and involve up to 2000 personnel, 60 aircraft, Australian Army elements and units from all Air Force Force Element Groups.

EX PB08 is the major Air Force exercise planned for 2008 and will involve the largest number of foreign nations participating in the exercise and the observer program to date. AIR FORCE News will pro-vide full coverage of the exercise from the next edi-tion.

10SQN’s trophy hunt10SQN’s trophy hunt

Ex Pitch Black is ready to rumble

By FLTLT Jaimie Abbott

AUSTRALIA may have missed out on winning this year’s Fincastle Trophy, but 10SQN didn’t go home empty handed after taking out the Fellowship and Lockheed Martin Maintenance trophies.

The 2008 International Fincastle Competition took place in Canada from April 28 to May 16 where air-crews from the host country, the UK, Australia and New Zealand battled for the coveted Fincastle Trophy. The UK took out the top prize this year.

Crew 5 from 10SQN last won the trophy for Australia in 2003. Crew 6 was selected this year as the best from the squadron following its perform-ance in various exercises and opera-tional mission simulator events.

The exercise was conceived dur-ing the desperate days of the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II to help the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force develop their combined anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities against the marauding German U-boats that were wreaking havoc with the Allied con-voys in the North Atlantic.

Fincastle began in 1961 as a bomb-ing competition between Australia, the UK, Canada and New Zealand.

It evolved into an ASW competi-tion and in 2006 it was expanded to include anti-surface unit warfare and intelligence surveillance and recon-naissance (ISR) components.

The exercise allowed countries to practise their overall long-range force effectiveness in ISR as well as ASW missions. The AP-3C’s crew was put to the test in a series of day sorties.

Commander Surveillance and Response Group AIRCDRE Warren Ludwig said he was impressed with 10SQN’s overall performance.

“Working with the other countries in environments like this is a fantastic opportunity to benchmark our capabil-ity,” AIRCDRE Ludwig said.

“It gives the squadrons the chance to develop skills needed to perform one of the Orion’s major combat roles – anti-submarine warfare.”

Australia was the most proficient in the area of aircraft maintenance during the three-week exercise, and the organ-isation of social activities earned the 10SQN crew the Fellowship Award. At time of going to press, the crew were still returning from Canada. Full coverage of Fincastle will be reported in the June 12 edition.

Australia scores double prize in Fincastle maritime competition

MARITIME MOMENTS: Above, 10SQN’s FSGT Rob Thatcher releases sonobuoys during pre-deployment exercises in preparation for the Fincastle competition. Inset, Crew 6 aircraft captain FLTLT Anneka Deaton and cockpit crew respond to the tactical situation during a training sortie. Photos by ACW Shannon Urie

PITCH UP: F-111s will converge on RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal to participate in Pitch Black. Photo by LAC Christopher Dickson

4 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

Bases bonus onus inin budgetet Major boost for infrastructure

$367.7 million for base mainte-nance across Australia, includ-ing: refurbishment of living-in accommodation; the renewal of in-ground services such as com-munications cabling, electrical reticulation and sewers; environ-mental monitoring and manage-ment works at Defence ranges and training areas; upgrade of security at Defence bases; and maintenance of airfield pave-ments and lighting. $452.9 million in housing assist-ance for about 17,000 ADF mem-bers with dependants, through a combination of Service resi-dences, rent allowance and the home purchase scheme. $12.2 million on a roll-out trial of free basic health care for ADF

families posted to rural and remote areas. $148.7 million for a funding package to target ‘Generation Y’, women, indigenous Australians and people from diverse eth-nic communities as potential recruits. $165.1 million to assist with retention of the ADF’s workforce. $20 million for the continued support to ADF Reservists through the Employer Support Payment Scheme. Potential services for ADF families at GP Super Clinics in Darwin and Townsville (in part-nership with the Department of Health). $1.39 million to assist ADF

community groups to undertake family support projects as part of the Family Support Funding Program. $5.3 million for the Defence School Transition Aide Program to provide an aide to schools with higher populations of stu-dents from ADF families. The program currently comprises 162 schools. Trialling of free basic GP and dental services of up to $300 a year for the families of full-time ADF members at rural and remote bases. $400,000 for the Defence Child Care Program, which gives priority access to childcare for Defence families.

What’s on the list

HEALTHY SPENDING: ADF families posted to RAAF Bases Tindal and East Sale will benefit from a new health care trial announced in the budget. Pictured are Tindal medics SGT Robyn McEnearney and LAC Phillip Beggs assisting a patient into an ambulance. Photo by LAC Casey Smith

STILL OPERATING: More than $200 million will be allocated for the continuation of Operation Catalyst as part of the ADF’s $1.036 billion funding for operations. Pictured is CPL Jason Hobbs (left) and WOFF John Webster on the job at the Orion detachment in the MEAO. Photo by AB Paul Berry

THE DEVELOPMENT of perma-nent facilities in Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory to cater for Air Force’s new heavy lift aircraft re-ceived a major boost with a Budget allocation of $130.2 million.

Substantial funding for the rede-velopment of RAAF Bases Pearce and Amberley was also part of the $1.1 bil-lion the Budget allocated for Defence infrastructure projects.

Amberley has had $285 million spent on its redevelopment, with a further $320 million still to be spent. Pearce is due to have a $142 million redevelopment, of which $34 million has been allocated in this year’s budget, plus a further $16 million to facilitate C-17 operations from the base.

A further $14 million has been allo-cated to ADF facilities rationalisation at the RMAF Base Butterworth.

“While Air Force is all about enhancing projection of air power, through the acquisition of new aircraft and equipment, the requirement to have adequate facilities to enable these capa-

bilities cannot be understated,” DCAF AVM John Blackburn said.

“The C-17 Globemaster gives the Air Force a high capacity strategic air-lift capability above and beyond any-thing that the Australian Services have ever had before. Its unrivalled short field performance also enables it to deliver large quantities of ADF equip-ment and personnel in quick time to remote areas in support of military or humanitarian operations. The infra-structure projects approved in the budg-et will provide significant upgrades to Air Force bases to maximise C-17 potential.”

“This Government is committed to providing the ADF with the facilities to support current and future capability, as well as providing Defence Force mem-bers and their families with the best possible services and accommodation,” Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said.

In 2008-09, $747.8 million will be provided for infrastructure projects and $367.7 million will be spent on base maintenance.

Funding in 2008-09 includes major

capital works totalling $552.5 million. Projects also include: $42.1 mil-lion for the provision of command, control, communications, comput-ing and intelligence systems at the new Headquarters Joint Operations Command at Bungendore.

Works will continue on phase one of the Living Environment and Accommodation Precinct project, which will upgrade ADF living-in accommodation, Mr Fitzgibbon said. Works at Holsworthy, Enoggera and Amberley were underway.

Funding on medium capital works on facilities throughout Australia in 2008-09 totals $71.5 million.

Funding for proposed facilities projects total about $123.8 million and approval for these capital works is expected in the 2008-09 financial year.

Meanwhile, ADF operations will receive $1.036 billion comprising: $618.9 million for Operation Slipper, Australia’s contribution to the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan; $174.3 million for Operation Astute,

Australia’s assistance to Timor-Leste; $215.7 million for the continuation of Operation Catalyst, Australia’s contribution to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Iraq; and $27.1 million for Operation Anode, the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands.

For full details of the Defence Budgetportfolio, visit the Defence website at: www.defence.gov.au/budget/08-09/pbs

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5NewsAIR FORCE May 29, 2008

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By FLGOFF Eamon Hamilton

THE final Boeing 707 in Australian service shows no sign of slowing down ahead of its retirement from the Air Force on June 30.

A varied list of activities has filled the task board for A20-624 ‘Richmond Town’, which was one of two original B707s pur-chased for the Air Force in 1979.

In April, ‘Richmond Town’ flew Staff College personnel through China and Japan; and throughout May, the aircraft con-ducted two air-to-air refuelling missions per day during Exercise Bersama Shield in Malaysia.

A contingent of 41 personnel from 33SQN accompanied the jet to Subang near Kuala Lumpur for what was its last international exercise.

33SQN CO WGCDR Jim Ghee paid tribute to the aircraft and his squadron’s support per-sonnel.

“We completed the exercise detachment of 25 sorties and 70 hours in 18 days and with 100 per cent serviceability,” he said.

The aircraft returned to Malaysia in late May to take the official Air Force contingent to

Swan song Swan song for last 707for last 707End of era nears for 33SQN

50th anniversary celebrations of the RAAF presence at RMAF Base Butterworth.

It was a nostalgic trip for many, given the B707’s sup-port of the RAAF’s presence in Malaysia over the past 29 years.

SQNLDR Pete Tame, senior engineering officer for 33SQN, said: “The aircraft has had a fantastic reliability record in the lead-up to retirement – it just loves to keep working.”

The final curtain-call will come next month as the B707 heads north to Darwin for Exercise Pitch Black, before returning home to RAAF Base Richmond for its farewell.

Despite this busy activity, 33SQN is already conducting the type disposal process with the Airlift Systems Project Office (ALSPO).

33SQN XO SQNLDR Paul Knellwolf said a farewell cel-ebration on the night of June 28 was shaping up to be a unique and memorable event with more than 600 past and present mem-bers of the RAAF B707 commu-nity planning to attend.

With the retirement of the B707 on June 30, 33SQN will no longer be based at Richmond, wi th 33SQN RAAF Base

Amberley standing up the fol-lowing day.

Retirement of the B707 now provides the 33SQN workforce time to prepare for the larger and more capable KC-30B, due to arrive into Air Force serv-ice next year. In the meantime,

the Air Force will maintain its air-to-air refuelling capability through the contracting of civil-ian tankers or coordinating with allied air forces. Details on the B707 retirement function can be found at: http://www.raaf.gov.au/b707farewell/

THIRST QUENCHER: Above, Air Force’s last B707, A20-624, refuels a RAAF Base Williamtown Hornet during recent exercises.CHECK THE OIL?: Right, two Hornets prepare for their turn off the tanker’s starboard wing. Photos by LAC David Gibbs

CONSISTENT with Air Force’s vision to position itself as an Employer of Choice (EOC), DCAF recently accepted an offer of corporate affiliation with the Australian Women and Leadership Forum (AWLF).

The AWLF is a national initiative designed to assist industry, business and government sectors in their efforts to support the develop-ment of current and future female leaders, and provides professional development pro-grams, corporate advisory services, network-ing opportunities and ongoing research.

Defence has been supporting the AWLF since 2005 through attendance at, and presen-tations to, events.

The three main programs offered by AWLF include the Leadership Voice for professional development, the Leadership Toolkit for effec-tive leadership, and the Executive Women’s Leadership Symposium.

Corporate affiliation provides Air Force members with a 20 per cent discount on the cost of attending these events, free admission to round-table events held in capital cities and free consultation with the Workplace Training Advisory of Australia on issues such as men-toring, gender dynamics and EOC.

In addition, in support of EOC initiatives, all AWLF material, emails, flyers and banners at events will promote Air Force.

Upcoming events include The Leadership Toolkit: Brisbane, June 4; Sydney, June 18; Melbourne, July 22; Adelaide, July 24; Canberra, August 12; Perth, August 12; Darwin, August 21; and Hobart, October 16.

The Leadership Voice will be held: Perth, June 20; Hobart, June 24; Canberra, July 3

and October 22; Melbourne, September 3; Sydney, September 9; and Brisbane, October 15.

In addition, the first Engineers Australia Women and Leadership Seminar will be held in Canberra on June 11. � Further information and registration details can

be accessed from: www.womensforum.com.au

Supporting female leaders

6 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

CREW 1 of 10SQN has cap-tured the PLTOFF John Kemp Twy-cross Memorial Trophy for 2007.

The trophy is a periodic acco-lade awarded to the AP-3C maritime crew that produces a winning pho-tograph, or series of photographs, based on their photographic merit, technical degree of difficulty or intelligence value to 92WG and the Defence organisation.

10SQN’s Crew 1 claimed the accolade for their series of pho-tos (at right) after encountering a Chinese Luyang-I destroyer and its accompanying Fuchi-class replen-ishment ship during a routine South China Sea patrol.

The crew’s series of photos were selected as the winner, as they rep-resented a complete set of multiple photographic passes on both ves-sels, for which each photo was of the highest quality and value.

The trophy was first awarded in 1990 following the tragic loss of PLTOFF John Kemp Twycross, who, as a 10SQN pilot, died on January 9, 1981 in a vehicle accident at Butterworth, in the early days of Operation Gateway missions by the 92WG detachment there.

92WG and AP-3C maritime crews continue to conduct sur-veillance missions out of RMAF Butterworth under the auspices

By FLTLT Jaimie Abbott

FIFTY students from the ADF Gap Year Program discovered the Air Force is not all about fast jets recently, when they got up close and personal with an Orion at RAAF Base Williamtown.

Personnel from 11SQN travelled from RAAF Base Edinburgh to Williamtown to conduct an AP-3C aircraft static dis-play and flight for the ADF Gap Year students.

Commander Survei l lance and Response Group AIRCDRE Warren Ludwig said it was an opportunity for the students to learn more about the Air Force’s maritime operations.

“The students have been exposed to the fighter elements on base here at Williamtown, like the F/A-18 and Hawk aircraft, and this was the chance to show-

case our Edinburgh-based AP-3C, which also plays a pivotal role in Defence,” AIRCDRE Ludwig said.

The ADF Gap Year is aimed at offer-ing young Australians, aged between 17-24, the opportunity to experience mili-tary training and lifestyle for up to 12 months, prior to embarking on full-time study or employment.

Wi l l i amtown ADF Gap Year Coordinator, FLTLT Joseph Kerrigan, said the students had varied interests.

“Eight were selected to participate in the flight because they were keen to learn more about the maritime operations in Surveillance and Response Group,” he said.

“It gave them more resources to make specific decisions about what they are going to do with their lives.”

Orion fills the gap

10SQN snaps up trophy

of Operation Gateway, as well as participate in Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) exercises, such as Bersama Shield (featured on pages 12-13).

The trophy is kept at 92WG Detachment A, RMAF Butterworth, and comprises a Selangor Pewter

etching of a 1700 AD map depicting the areas that encompass most of the AP-3C surveillance operations.

The etching is mounted on a Malaysian teak frame upon which the winning crew’s number is placed, and is surrounded by framed copies of all the winning photographs.

WE’RE NO. 1: These two photos are part of the Twycross Trophy winning series taken by 10SQN’s Crew 1 during a routine maritime patrol in the South China Sea. Photos courtesy of 10SQN

TAKE A LOOK: 11SQN’s FSGT Matthew Basedow shows Gap Year students (from left) OFFCDTs Kirstie Prothero, Rebecca Mack, Jacqueline Grady, Luke Cairns and Alistair Gray the inside of an Orion at RAAF Base Williamtown. Photo by AC Mark Friend

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7NewsAIR FORCE May 29, 2008

By Andrew Stackpool

NUMBER 1 Radar Surveillance Unit (1RSU) combined business, ceremony and fun when it made its annual pilgrimage to Alice Springs for the Anzac Day period.

Twenty members visited the town from April 21-26, with five remain-ing until April 28 to host a visit to the Over the Horizon Radar site by the Commander Surveillance and Response Group AIRCDRE Warren Ludwig.

Senior operations officer SQNLDR Adam Lawson said that the contingent – which was commanded by FLGOFF Adam Tooth – was smaller than last year, when the unit exercised its right of Freedom of Entry to Alice Springs.

On April 22, the contingent turned out at the Old Timers’ retirement vil-lage and carried out a wide range of maintenance activities.

“It went very well and the transi-tion into the operations phase was seamless due to the excellent work put in by the British Aerospace tech-nicians,” SQNLDR Lawson said.

Anzac Day-related activities com-menced on the evening of April 24 when the contingent attended the Kapyong memorial service and din-ner with veterans and their guests at the Alice Springs RSL. In tradition-al form, Anzac Day activities com-menced with the contingent’s attend-ance at the dawn service, followed by the march and morning service.

SQNLDR Lawson laid a wreath on behalf of 1RSU, while clerk WOFF Sandy Nicholson acted as Master of Ceremonies at both services in front of more than 2000 people.

“WOFF Nicholson did a very good job,” FLGOFF Ken Reckless said. “She had very little guidance but ensured it all went very well.”

With the formal activities conclud-ed, the unit settled in to the traditionalpost-ceremonial activities.

“FLGOFF Tooth did an excellentjob as the commander, but his two-upskills need a bit of work,” SQNLDRLawson said.

FLGOFF Reckless said the visit was a great opportunity.

“We were able to swap stories withpeople, learn more about the veterans’experiences and ‘wave the flag’ for Air Force,” he said.

Deputy contingent commander SGT Jason Muller agreed.

“The trip was a great success.Given 1RSU’s history with Alice Springs, it was a wonderful opportu-nity to maintain our bonds with the community,” SGT Muller said. See the back page for coverage of 1RSU’s annual cricket match against BAE Systems in Alice Springs.

By CPL Corinne Boer

NEW policing technology was on display at the official opening of the ADF Investigative Services Headquar-ters in Canberra on May 16.

The ADF Investigative Service (ADFIS) brings together about 150 spe-cialist policing personnel from the Navy, Army, Air Force and APS who will con-duct complex and serious disciplinary and criminal investigations.

Provost Marshal ADF COL Tim Grutzner said all members of ADFIS were committed to developing a profes-sional, credible and responsive investiga-tive agency.

“One year ago we amalgamated the investigative capabilities of the three services into a single unit,” COL Grutzner said.

The 2005 Senate Military Justice Inquiry and the Defence Investigative Capability Audit identified the need for new technologies and improved resourc-ing for Service police. Investigators require access to the best possible tech-nology and investigative tools to sup-port the identification and collection of forensic evidence that is critical in some cases.

“We now have state-of-the-art foren-sic equipment to support the core investi-gator function,” COL Grutzner said.

“We have a new state-of-the-art inci-dent scene camera, the latest finger-print-ing equipment and DNA collection and interpretation equipment.”

The headquarters consists of a number of specialist branches, including Policy, Development and Learning.

“We have a dedicated office called the Service Police Central Records Office which holds all the investigation records for the three Services,” COL Grutzner said. “There is also a new criminal intel-ligence capability which enables us to be proactive instead of just reacting to

ADF’s new policing technology goes on display at HQ open

reports of offences, so we can identify those areas which might become impor-tant to Defence.”

The headquarters commands 22 unit locations around Australia, a permanent office in Butterworth and six deployed locations including Iraq, Afghanistan, Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands.

“This gives us the capability to quick-ly respond to incidents,” COL Grutzner said. “We can now reallocate resources to respond to incidents effectively and efficiently.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support Dr Mike Kelly officially opened the ADFIS Headquarters in Canberra. Guests included CDF, investigative offic-ers from the Inspector General’s Division and Defence Security Authority and rep-resentatives of the three Service Chiefs.

PARADE: Above, 1RSU’s contingent headed by SQNLDR Adam Lawson (centre front) prepare for the Anzac Day activities at Alice Springs. HELPERS: Right, CPL David Moore and another 1RSU member lend a helping hand during maintenance at the Old Timers’ retirement village. Photos by AC Vasilis Solomou

GIZMOS: SGT Paul Judges shows Dr Mike Kelly some equipment at the ADFIS HQ open. Photo by Glenn Alderton

Outbackk activity

8 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

THE effectiveness of military justice reforms that have taken place over the past two years is to be subjected to an independent review.

Minister for Defence Science and Personnel Warren Snowdon announced the review on May 8.

Former Chief Justice of NSW Sir Laurence Street and former CAF AIRMSHL Les Fisher will conduct the review.

Mr Snowdon said that the review was necessary because of a number of factors involving military law and justice. They include a program of rapid and signifi-cant changes in laws affecting the ADF in recent years, as well as the introduction of a new division into the Commonwealth’s criminal code, which creates a signifi-cant number of offences that impact on ADF operations and deployments. These include genocide, crimes against human-ity and war crimes.

Overarching these was the Senate inquiry into the effectiveness of the mili-tary justice system that concluded in 2005. The conclusions and recommenda-tions of that inquiry brought rapid legal changes into the system.

“Reform is not enough,” Mr Snowdon said. “It must be independently reviewed to determine the effectiveness of the over-haul. Investigations, prosecutions, trial procedures, the conduct of inquiries and complaints, how audits and reviews of the military justice system are conducted, and how ADF members are trained. It is of the utmost importance that this review makes sure we have balanced the rights of indi-viduals with effective discipline.”

By Barry Rollings

A BRONZE Star from the US military for meritorious service was one of the tangibles SGT Ja-son Woodsell brought home – along with his memories – from his recent deployment in Iraq.

Normal ly a t t ached to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight, based at Orchard Hills, he served with Task Force Troy for six months as the NCOIC of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Training Team (C-IEDTT).

“The C-IEDTT is a combined, multi-national unit, with instructors assigned from the US Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as personnel from the ADF on a permanent cyclic rotation,” SGT Woodsell said.

“Members of the British Royal Engineers have also been attached to the unit. The CIED training teams operate from static training facilities within the Victory Base complex in Baghdad, as well as from two remote forward operating bases (FOBs) – Al Asad and Spiecher. Teams also deploy to other regions where the logistic/manning or operational imperatives prohibit units from travelling to the established training facilities.”

The C-IEDTT is tasked with pro-viding both theatre and region-spe-cific C-IED and search training to brigade combat teams within 90 days of their arrival in the Iraqi Theatre of Operations. The team is also respon-sible for pre-deployment training, and enhancing and developing CIED tactics, techniques and procedures

Military justice reforms go under review

(TTPs) for Coalition Forces operat-ing within the Multi-National Corps – Iraq.

The training delivered by the C-IEDTT has been designed to increase the IED awareness of coali-tion force personnel stationed within Iraq and/or fresh into theatre. Lessons included both theory and practi-cal exercises dealing with subjects ranging from basic IED recognition through to cache site exploitation.

“Course packages are specifically

tailored to the threat in a participating area of operation, and the training value to ‘outside the wire’ operators is well proven,” SGT Woodsell said.

“Coalition units that have com-pleted the training have expressed high praise for the processes, tech-niques and adaptable level of instruc-tion that is provided, and for the over-all professionalism of the instructors.

“The personnel embedded in the teams have an important role to play in helping combat the IED threat.

“The profess iona l manner in which this training is delivered is a credit to them, their respective Services and country.

“The goal of the C-IEDTT is to provide the most in-depth and rela-tive training possible to the troops on the ground in the limited time avail-able,” he said.

SGT Woodsell was presented with his Bronze Star by US Task Force Troy Commander, COL Karl E. Reinhard, at a ceremony in Iraq.

Star performer

WOODY’S REWARD: SGT Jason Woodsell was awarded a US Bronze Star during his six-month deployment as NCOIC of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Training Team in Iraq. He is pictured on the job with his US counterparts (far right), and inset, receiving the award from COL Karl E. Reinhard. Photos courtesy of SGT Woodsell

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By Barry Rollings

FOR the Air Force’s newest hot-air balloon pilot, FLTLT Michael Banner-man, it’s become a case of life in the slow lane – and he loves it.

The new Balloon Flight Commander with No. 28 (City of Canberra) Squadron, based at HMAS Harman, he has been in his new post since January, replacing SQNLDR Ian Richman.

Until now, FLTLT Bannerman has been used to the much quicker pace of a fixed-wing pilot. Since graduating from flight training school in 1997, he has flown transports such as the C-130H, Falcon 900 and HS748.

If you asked FLTLT Bannerman for three good reasons for the change in job description, he could easily give you them. Promoting the Air Force, public relations, recruiting and enjoying his work are among them.

Then there’s the travel, visiting pri-mary schools all over Australia and talk-ing to young children.

“I get to talk to young kids at primary schools, country shows and other public events and promote the Air Force,” he said.

The training process to become a bal-loonist could take as little as a week given good weather, ground crew and instructor availability.

“To qualify, I had to follow the pilot training as outlined by the Australian Balloon Federation, the civil agency that runs all sports ballooning in Australia.”

The practical training has taken place

mostly in home skies above Canberra but part of the training is going on a balloon tour.

FLTLT Bannerman said the difference between flying a fixed wing aircraft and a balloon are a little more than subtle.

“You can’t steer and you are at the mercy of the wind, so a lot of prior plan-ning is required,” he said.

“Another important aspect is the inter-dependence with your ground crew.

“You could be landing on a paddock or an oval, which is a bit different from landing on a runway at an airfield, but I have a good team of guys and girls who help me.”

The ground crew usually consists of three people. Normally, only one pilot flies the balloon.

“I’m interested in attracting more reservists to be balloon crew and I have several empty slots in my establishment. Ballooning is a great way of personally engaging with the public and promoting the Air Force,” he said.

“There are good opportunities for travel and working within a small team. So, for any reservists (particularly techos) who want to join the Balloon Flight or are thinking of transferring from the PAF in the Canberra area, give me a call.”

FLTLT Bannerman can be contacted at 28SQN on (02) 6127 6809, at email: michael.bannerman@defence.gov.au or via the Air Force website. For more information, visit www.raaf.gov.au/balloons

Scenic tour of duty28SQN’s hot-air balloon pilot takes it nice and easy in new flying role

WINDBAG: Above, the Air Force balloon inflates and, inset, in flight near Canberra’s Black Mountain Tower during the Canberra balloon fiesta last month. Photos by FSGT John CarrollJOYRIDE: Below left, FLTLT Michael Bannerman and Ashleigh Hudson from Canberra radio station Mix 106.3 enjoy the view from onboard the balloon during the fiesta. Photo by SQNLDR Simon Paton

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10 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

By SQNLDR Chris Hatch

AIR Force firefighting has moved to a new level with the arrival of the first of the next-generation fire ten-ders at RAAF Base Amberley.

The first of two Rosenbauer Panther fire trucks were received by the RAAF Security and Fire School (RAAFSFS) on March 14.

The first of 16 Panthers to be deliv-ered to Air Force, these vehicles dem-onstrate the evolving support require-ments being established to cater for the rapidly-changing aircraft fleet, particu-larly with the acquisition of the C-17 and KC-30B.

The Panther represents a leap for-ward in the provision of aircraft res-cue and firefighting (ARFF) services within Air Force.

Despite sharing similar firefight-ing systems with the present truck, the Trident, the Panther employs a wide range of technological advances improving firefighter effectiveness. These include digitised driver and fire-

Flight for charity hero

fighting system controls and a global positioning system.

An increased water capacity, great-er roof monitor range and inclusion of a dry chemical powder firefighting system make this a significantly more capable vehicle than its predecessor.

“Our firefighters constantly strive to achieve the highest standards in ARFF skills to ensure that our people are safe in crisis situations,” RAAFSFS CO WGCDR Simon Sauer said.

“This is important now more than ever, given the ever-increasing diversi-ty of technologically-advanced aircraft operated by our own and coalition air forces. In Panther, they now have a vehicle that is equal to the challenge.”

At a cost of $1.4 million per vehi-cle, Panther was procured for the Air Force under DMO Joint Project 2095.

The project team will oversee the introduction into service of the Austrian-built trucks at RAAF Bases Amberley, Tindal, Williamtown and Richmond.

It will replace the ageing Trident,

a vehicle that has been in Air Force service since 1992. The Trident will be phased out over the next two years, with the Panther expected to be in full operation at desig-nated bases by July 2009.

The first two Panthers were involved in

acceptance tests at Amberley over recent weeks and the training of Air Force firefighters and mechanics began at the end of March.

The Panther training team, based at RAAFSFS, will be conducting

firefighter conversion on the Panther at each base on in conjunction with the vehicle delivery schedule.

A formal acceptance into serv-ice ceremony and capability display will be held at Amberley on July 9.

TOP CATS: Fire Training Flight staff from RAAFSFS pose with their new Panther fire trucks in front of a Globemaster on the 36SQN flightline at RAAF Base Amberley. The first of 16 engines, the trucks were recently accepted into service. Photo by AC Dan Pinhorn

Next-gen fire trucks enter service

FASTEN SEAT BELTS: Above, 76SQN pilot FLTLT Bryce Solomon helps Mr Kelly strap in to the Hawk before his flight.ROLLING: Right, Mr Kelly gives the thumbs-up as his aircraft taxis for take- off. Photos by CPL Peter Borys

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By FLGOFF Bettina Mears

TWENTY years of dedicated service to the Variety Club was re-cently acknowledged with the help of 76SQN personnel.

Chas Kelly from Devonport Tasmania, has raised more than $3 million to assist Australian children, children’s hospitals, community groups, schools and organisations.

In recognition, Mr Kelly was recently treated to an hour-long flight in a 76SQN Hawk jet trainer. Air Force and the Variety Club played a proud role in honouring an extraor-dinary individual’s long association with the charity.

Variety Club, established in 1927, is an international body dedicated to providing help to sick, special needs and disadvantaged children. For many years, in addition to their role in the Air Force, individuals have main-tained a close association with chap-ters of the Variety Club Charity across Australia, including the iconic ‘The Variety Club Bash’.

Air Force Variety Club mem-ber, WOFF Kevin Leahy from Headquarters Combat Support Group, was aware of Mr Kelly’s unsung achievements and approached CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Shepherd for Air Force to help in acknowledging his work. CAF was pleased to assist.

Mr Kelly thanked 76SQN person-nel for their warm hospitality and

was overwhelmed by the gesture. “I feel privileged and thankful for the extraordinary experience,” Mr Kelly said.

“Giving to a worthwhile charity is extremely rewarding and I would encourage anyone to do it.”

76SQN CO WGCDR Nick Osborne said that the opportunity to assist Variety Club in acknowledg-ing an extraordinary supporter was a privilege. “It was indeed a pleasure taking such a deserving person for a fly,” he said.

FeatureAIR FORCE May 29, 2008 11

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By FLGOFF Jakob Overduin

THIS year, when I attended my first Anzac Day in Sydney as a member of the ADF, it gave me time to reflect on the long and proud history of my unit, No. 22 (City of Sydney) Squad-ron.

I had been waiting for this day since I joined and the feelings of excitement, nerves and pride were all present and almost over-whelming as I made my way to my squadron.

Originally formed in April 1936, 22SQN is one of the long-est-standing Air Force squadrons.

After the outbreak of World War II, 22SQN initially conduct-ed anti-submarine patrols, but was

re-equipped with Boston bomb-ers in April 1942 and deployed to New Guinea in October.

In March, 1943, the squadron played an important role in the Battle of the Bismarck Sea and then conducted operations in the South West Pacific until the end of the war. It disbanded in mid-1946 but reformed in 1948.

In the squadron’s memorable past, on March 16, 1943, FLTLT William Ellis Newton led an attack on Salamua in which his aircraft was repeatedly fired on by Japanese anti-aircraft guns. Bill dropped his bombs at low level and then flew home.

Two days later, he made another attack on Salamua with five other Bostons. During the

operation, his aircraft burst into flames and he ditched into the sea.

Captured by the Japanese and interrogated until May 20, he was beheaded at Salamaua by the Japanese SBLT who captured him. FLTLT Newton was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his gallantry in action.

The squadron also received several other high awards.

When asked about his role as CO 22SQN, SQNLDR Ivan Benitez-Aguirre said: “I am extremely proud to follow in the footsteps of some great Air Force officers. I am privileged to lead a squadron with such a history and also to work with people who are so professional and motivated.”

By Andy Anderson

AIR Force had the honour of leading the ADF’s involvement in the commemorations at Gallipoli for Anzac Day.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Shepherd attended as the senior Service rep-resentative, while WGCDR Kirrily Dearing led the 41-strong Anzac Day contingent, which included elements of the Air Force Band and Australia’s Federation Guard (AFG).

Management of the Anzac Day commemorations at Gallipoli has become a complex activity involv-ing the governments of Australia, New Zealand and Turkey. The Department of Veterans Affairs has a planning team working year round. By each December, Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also begin preparations. The Australian Defence Attaché and his staff in Ankara provide vital support.

Following months of prepara-tions, the ADF contingent deployed to Turkey one week before Anzac Day to conduct site walk-throughs and rehearsals. Its primary tasks were to provide ceremonial support to the Turkish commemoration at Cape Helles on April 24 and the tra-ditional dawn service at the Gallipoli and Lone Pine services the following day.

Contingent members worked around the clock on the days leading up to April 25. The band was in posi-tion at the commemorative site 12 hours before the dawn service to set up equipment, conduct sound checks and prepare for their first perform-ance at 8pm.

The band was part of the over-night interpretive program for the huge crowd, many of whom were huddled in sleeping bags in the bit-terly cold conditions. The program

highlighted key moments of the Gallipoli campaign.

The band and AFG shared dawn service duties with their New Zealand counterparts, and provided all music and the full Catafalque Party at Lone Pine.

“Everyone in the contingent worked very hard in the lead up to the commemorations and those thorough preparations paid off,” WGCDR Dearing said. “The contin-gent members did themselves proud and represented the ADF superbly.

“The deployment was a great experience for detachment members not only professionally, but per-sonally. To stand on the Gallipoli Peninsula, and see battlefield sites which have entered Australian leg-end is very moving.

“Despite the contingent’s busy schedule, there were some moments for contemplation too,” she said.

Honouring our past

Reflections of a reservistLADIES ONLY: Above, from left, 11SQN’s FSGT Vanessa Cramp, retired SGT Audrey Vizer and 3CSH’s FLTLT Katrina Franke in Sydney. Photo by SGT William GuthriePROUD FAMILY: Below, former pilot Bill Cape and son FLTLT Joel Cape from 37SQN unite on Anzac Day. Photo by AC Michael Green

DOGGED: RAAF Base Edinburgh dog handlers march in Adelaide. Photo by AC Glen McCarthyAT PEACE: Right, CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Shepherd salutes at the Gallipoli dawn service. Photo by CPL Rod Welch

SILENCE: LAC Matthew Ferres from HQ Air Training Wing rests on arms at East Sale. Photo by FSGT Kev Berriman

Let’s revisit 2008 Anzac Day commemorations

BRASSY SOUNDS: Air Force Band musician

SGT Stuart McGregor plays his French horn

during the service at Lone Pine, Gallipoli.

Photo by CPL Rod Welch

12 AIR FORCE May 29, 2008 13 Centrepiece

DINNER TIME: Left, LACW Sheree Woodward, a cook from CSU RAAF Base Richmond, serves dinner at the 324CSS combined mess. FLIGHT PLAN: Right, 11SQN’s Crew 6 co-pilot FLGOFF Stewart Parkinson studies his charts before another mission.FINE FORM: Below, 3SQN marks the end of the exercise with a four-ship Hornet fly-over of RMAF Base Butterworth. Photos by AC Glen McCarthy

BOARDING PASS: Above, 11SQN travel clerk, LAC Brett Lewis, at the 92WG DET A office.UNDER PRESSURE: Below, 11SQN’s AC Joshua Day checks the front tyre pressure of an Orion before a sortie.

PINGED: Above, CPL Regan Tippett and LAC Jared Theisinger (rear) load sonobuoys into an Orion before a night sortie. AIRBORNE: Below, a 3SQN F/A-18 lifts off.

TRADE SHOW: 11SQN avionics technician CPL Darryl Totaro (left) shows 3SQN technicians (from left) AC Edmond Kasparian, AC David Silvello and LAC Travis Moule around the cockpit of an AP-3C.

EVER READY: Above, 11SQN’s Crew 6 members conduct emergency drills during the exercise.ANYONE THERE?: Left, CPL Nerissa Ruming, the 92WG DET A operations clerk, communicates with ground crews via the ops radio.

Sharing skies and seawaysExercise Bersama Shield proved a challenge, as FLTLT Jaimie Abbott writes.

AMID the night sky and oil rig terri-tory of the South China Sea, a tiny periscope taunted the crews on-board the AP-3Cs during Exercise Bersama Shield.

The British nuclear submarine HMS Trafalgar was a star attraction of the exercise, submerging itself in a modern-day war-game of cat and mouse.

11SQN maritime crews were put to the test aboard the two Orions, flying as low as 100 feet from the water’s surface in an attempt to uncover the surveillance secrets of the Royal Navy’s stealth attack vessel.

Bersama Shield was held from May 5 to 17, and was the latest in the annual series of exercises held under the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) involving Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand and the UK.

The Orions were used for all maritime operations, including surveillance, anti-sur-face and anti-submarine warfare, and strike direction.

92WG Detachment Alpha Commander, SQNLDR Baz Laing, said the exercise was a “fantastic” opportunity to work with key regional allies.

“The main objective of Bersama Shield for

92WG was to exercise in a complex maritime environment using the AP-3C’s full range of sensors,” SQNLDR Laing said.

Sharing the skies and seaways around Malaysia and Singapore were eight FPDA warships and some 70 aircraft, including 3SQN F/A-18s and 76SQN’s Hawks, which conducted maritime strike activity against the ships.

C-130s and a B707 also supported the exer-cise, transporting personnel and supplies and providing air-to-air refuelling for FPDA fight-ers.

The exercise was supported by 324CSS, which was preparing to mark the 50th anni-versary of the establishment of a Combat Support Unit at RMAF Base Butterworth.

“RMAF Butterworth is an excellent base, as we are well supported by Malaysia,” SQNLDR Laing said.

92WG deputy detachment commander SQNLDR Mick Durant said he was impressed with the professionalism and ability of the deployed 11SQN team.

“The exercise provided an invaluable expe-rience for the aircrew by operating in an unfa-miliar environment with challenging weather,” SQNLDR Durant said.

3SQN CO WGCDR Vinny Iervasi said his

squadron had been looking forward to the exercise for many months.

“This was 3SQN’s first overseas deploy-ment in more than two years. It was an excel-lent opportunity to refresh deployment tech-niques and to expose all personnel to the challenges of operating from a foreign base,” WGCDR Iervasi said. “The level of support from 324CSS was excellent.

“From a flying perspective, 3SQN met all of its exercise objectives. I am very pleased with the progress everyone made,” he said.

“As CTG 640.1 (the Air Force component commander), I was likewise impressed with the professionalism and level of integration of all participating Air Force units.

“Finally, we have had the opportunity to participate in some 50th anniversary activities, including five 3SQN members competing in an invitational cricket match. 3SQN has a long history of service in Butterworth – almost 30 years of continuous service. It’s been great to bring the squadron back to its old stomping ground,” he said.

Both maintenance personnel and aircrew were put through a rigorous schedule dur-ing the exercise. 11SQN XO SQNLDR Kevin Mulgrew praised the work of his personnel during the exercise.

“We achieved 100 per cent of our mission objectives, and it wouldn’t have been pos-sible without the work of support personnel,” SQNLDR Mulgrew said.

Commander Surveillance and Response Group AIRCDRE Warren Ludwig said well-planned international exercises like Bersama Shield produce the best results.

“They aim to train and test our people and aircraft while minimising any impact on the people and environment of the Malaysian region,” AIRCDRE Ludwig said.

“Bersama Shield provides participants with high complexity maritime and air combat training opportunities.”

AP-3C aircraft captains FLTLTs Jay Tuffley and Matt Lunnay used those opportu-nities to fine-tune maritime support skills.

“The past two weeks have certainly tested our deployment capabilities so that we can operate away from our home base,” FLTLT Tuffley said.

“Working with the nuclear submarine was a rare opportunity for us, and one which I think all the aircrew embraced,” FLTLT Lunnay said.

It will be 10SQN’s turn to head to Butterworth in October for the FPDA Exercise Bersama Lima.

BRIEFING: Above, FLTLT Emma Challen from 81TIF, 87SQN, prepares to brief 3SQN pilots.WATCH OUT: Below, a Crew 6 member maintains a lookout for enemy contacts during an exercise sortie.

THREE’S COMPANY: 3SQN pause during the exercise for a group shot at Butterworth. CO WGCDR Vinny Iervasi is centre front.

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14 News AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

By FLGOFF Anita Green

THE Air Force’s Security and Fire School (RAAFSFS) at RAAF Base Amberley enjoyed a double celebration recently when its newest Security Po-lice graduates were on show.

During the past 18 months, the school has attempted to combine course gradu-ations and, on this day, graduates from both the security law enforcement and military working dog handler courses had cause to celebrate. The double graduation comprised one course of each specialist security police field.

In future, new members of the Air Force’s security police will complete the Service police introductory course at the Defence Police Training Centre at Holsworthy Army Barracks. They will then complete their single Service train-ing at RAAFSFS.

ACW Deborah Booker was looking forward to her posting to Amberley. “It’s a new beginning for me which will be the start of a whole new life,” she said.

AC Ali Al-Bander is proud to have

graduated. His path to success has not been easy.

He was born in As Samara, Iraq, and came to Australia after fleeing from Iraq as a 15-year-old. Since joining the Air Force, he says he has been encouraged all the way. He says the support and accept-ance he has received is a direct reflection on his success on course. He has been posted to RAAF Base Pearce.

On the securi ty law enforce-ment course, AC Daniel Shaw won the J.B. Tiernan Award for overall police qualities; AC Joss Richardson won the Commanding Officer’s Award for inves-tigative skills; and AC Colin Pecats won the Chief Instructor’s Award for counter- intelligence skills.

On the military working dog handlers’ course, ACW Jacinta Gardiner won the J.B. Tiernan Award and AC Julian Dyer won the dux of the course.

The Instructor’s Memorial Award for best military working dog handler quali-ties was presented to AC Rayan Grocott, and the Academic Award went to AC Peter Locadou-Wells.

By FLGOFF Anita Green

AIR Force military working dogs (MWDs) were honoured at RAAF Base Amberley re-cently when Commander Combat Support Group AIRCDRE Mark Gower unveiled a commemorative plaque at a memorial cer-emony.

The plaque is dedicated to all dogs that served in war and peacetime operations.

Police dogs have played an essential role in the security of air bases since their intro-duction in 1943. RAAF police dogs served in Butterworth from 1970-1994, and Singapore from 1970-1983. None could return to Australia.

After a name change in 1999, the newly-named ADF MWDs deployed overseas, and for the first time, it was possible for them to return to Australia after deployments.

This would not have been possible without the cooperation of the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service. This allowed dogs to be held at locations in Indonesia and then spend minimal time in quarantine on return to Australia.

Since 1999, 20 MWDs have deployed over-seas to Timor-Leste, during Operation Warden between October 1999 and March 2000, and again in 2007 and 2008, on Operation Astute.

Their duties included patrolling, building searches and crowd control work around Dili.

Two dogs, Prince and Justice, had to be put down because of disease.

The new memorial is dedicated to dogs like Prince and Justice who did not return from active duty, as well as to all dogs that have served and continue to serve in operations and on duty for Australia. Its unveiling also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the founding of man/dog teams in the Air Force.

BZ for dogs

New police grads’ historic double

FOR SERVICE: AIRCDRE Mark Gower and WOFF Paul Andersen unveil the MWD plaque. Photo by AC Dan Pinhorn

MADE IT: SFS graduating course members after the first double graduation parade by RAAFSFS. Photo by AC Dan Pinhorn

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STEP UP: Above, LACW Dianne Hall from 381ECSS is promoted to CPL by ADF commander MAJGEN Mike Hindmarsh in the MEAO during his recent visit to the Orion detachment. Photo by AB Paul BerryTALKFEST: Below, River 94.9 radio personality Wayne Roberts speaks to LAC Chris Gould (left) and FLGOFF Daniel Hamilton from 2AFDS about their jobs during a recent visit to RAAF Base Amberley to conduct a live broadcast.

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JUST LOOKING: Airfield defence guard FSGT Dave Gay from 323CSS shows WOFF-AF Ray Woolnough vehicle security inspection procedures at the Orion detachment during his recent visit to the MEAO. Photo by AB Paul Barry

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Defence Housing Australia: 20 years old

In 2008 DHA marks a major milestone – its 20th year of operation. Since 1988, housing for the Defence forces has come a long way, and DHA is proud to provide homes, that ensure comfort and modern living for Defence families around the country.

Today, DHA’s homes are modern, with neutral tones - and most importantly are of community standard - the same standard of which your neighbours and friends enjoy. But the high standard of DHA homes can only be sustained through the expert maintenance and services which are provided to Australian Defence Force (ADF) families.

DHA provides a comprehensive and responsive maintenance service to ADF families, this includes the provision of a 24-hour telephone emergency helpline. The helpline can be used for any immediate problems that affect the health, safety and security of you, your family or the residence.

DHA regularly conducts maintenance surveys to gauge member satisfaction with the way work was completed, customer service and contractor’s service; but also to ensure that invoiced work has been completed.

A random sample of ADF members who had either responsive or after-hours emergency maintenance work completed at their dwelling are contacted by telephone to complete the survey.

In March of 2007-08, 1671 ADF tenants were randomly chosen to complete the survey.

The results of survey were very positive:Of the members (1623 people) who had • work completed during the quarter, 97% (1581) were satisfied with the overall maintenance service. This is up four percent on figures from • the same quarter in the previous year.DHA’s customer service performance • showed that of the 1616 respondents, 93% (1501) of respondents were satisfied with DHA customer service. This is a rise of two percent when • compared with the March 06/07 result (91%).

The main reasons for dissatisfaction • were DHA taking too long to organise the job and the member having to follow up.Of the 1611 respondents, 1572 (98%) • respondents were satisfied with contractor services. This is up four percent on last year. The main reasons for dissatisfaction • with contractor service were quality of workmanship and the tenant having to clean up after the contractor.

DHA reports on its maintenance survery results quarterly, results are are available via the DHA website (www.dha.gov.au).

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By Pat ClarkeActing Director

Honours and Awards

THE Air Force is encouraging nominations for appointments to the Order of Australia and awards of Conspicuous Service Decora-tions for outstanding performance by non-commissioned members in non-warlike situations.

These members often go unrecog-nised because of the misconception that the nomination process is too difficult. Do not let outstanding per-formance go unrewarded – if you are not confident that you can compose a suitable nomination, seek help from members in your work group or from your chain of command.

The May 1 edition of AIR FORCE News reminded readers that nomi-nations for appointments to the Order of Australia and awards of

Conspicuous Service Decorations for the Australia Day 2009 list close on May 30. However, nominations are considered and forwarded to the Governor-General twice a year – for Australia Day and also for the Queen’s Birthday in June. If your nomination does not make the May 30 deadline, it will be automatically considered for the Queen’s Birthday awards.

Other forms of recognising service that you should consider include Commendations for Service and the Australia Day Medallion. Commendations for Service recog-nise outstanding civilian or military Defence service by groups or indi-viduals. Commendations are issued at two, three and four-star level, and should be considered for service that may not easily fit into the category of suitable service for Honours or Conspicuous Service Decorations.

Administration procedures for com-mendations vary for different award-ing authorities, and nominations for these awards should be staffed through your chain of command. More information is in DI(G) 31-2: Commendations for service and Defence Circular Memorandum No 33/2000: Civilian Awards in Defence.

The Australia Day Medallion pro-vides recognition for achievement which does not qualify for any other award and has not been recognised by another award. Eligible military or civilian Defence members may be nominated for outstanding service in the past 12 months or over a number of years. Nominations for Australia Day 2009 close in late October 2008. Information about nominating for the Australia Day Medallion is in DI(G) PERS 31-7: Australia Day Medallion.

THE changing needs of ADF mem-bers and their families will be the focus of a new review into the ADF’s non-salary related conditions of service for full-time members and reservists.

In 2001, the Nunn Review looked at ADF remuneration, and a series of recommendations has been implemented since that time.

There is now general agreement by the Defence People Committee that the current conditions of service package is in need of review to remove anomalies and to introduce a degree of simplic-ity and flexibility that is not available through the current package.

This review will examine ways of delivering to members a suite of condi-tions of service currently provided that are up-to-date, flexible and simple to administer.

The scope of this review, due to end in mid 2009, incorporates non-salary related ADF conditions of service so it

will not cover areas such as: salaries or their related allowances; superannuation; fringe benefits tax or taxation; compen-sation; or deployments.

A project team will be consulting widely with the personnel areas within each Service, Defence Support Group, Defence Families Australia and the Defence Community Organisation.

The outcome of the review will be communicated to members and their families once the review process has con-cluded in mid-2009.

ADF members and their families are invited to submit suggestions for improving the ADF’s non-salary relat-ed conditions of service by emailing cosreview@defence.gov.au. All submis-sions will be considered in shaping a contemporary conditions of service pack-age for the future. The Personnel Policy and Employment Conditions Branch contributed this article.

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Families the focus of new review into service conditions

More information about the nomina-tion process is on the Honours and Awards intranet site, which comes under the Defence Support Group. Annexes DI(G) 31-5 Australian Defence Force Policy on Nomination Procedures for the Order of Australia and Conspicuous Service Decorations provide advice on suitable wording and the correct layout of nominations for appointment to the Order of Australia and for Conspicuous Service Decorations.

Here’s help

REVEAL TOP TROOPS: Don’t let outstanding performance go unrewarded because you think the honours and awards nomination process is too difficult. Seek help to nominate a worthy member for decorations, including the Conspicuous Service Medal (pictured below right). Photo by CPL Steve Duncan

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18 History AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

BULLETIN BOARDAir Force BandMay 29: The Ceremonial Band will support the SAW graduation parade at RAAF Base East Sale.May 30: Catalina and selected soloists will give a lunchtime concert at St John’s Church, Southgate, at 12.30pm.May 30: Force 10 will provide music for the annual autumn ball in the Officers’ Mess at RAAF Williams, Laverton.May 31: The Sydney Detachment will support the 3 Wing (AAFC) annual cadet ball at the Canterbury Race Course.June 1: The Ceremonial Band will support the Bomber Command Association commemora-tive ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, at 12.00pm.June 4: The Ceremonial Band will support the 1RTU graduation parade at RAAF Base Wagga at 11.00pm.June 4: Force 10 will provide musical support to the Air Force Awards night at the Airmen’s Mess, RAAF Base Richmond.June 6: The Ceremonial Band will support the OTS graduation parade at RAAF Base East Sale at 11.30am.

2CRU’s 50th anniversaryNo. 2 Control And Reporting Unit (2CRU) is cel-ebrating its 50th anniversary on September 21, 2009. As part of the celebrations, a reunion dinner will be held in Darwin on September 19, followed by a week of activities. The 2CRU 50th Reunion Committee has been formed in Darwin comprising former members. � For more details, contact the committee at

email: 2caruaware@gmail.com or SGT Lesley Stowers at email: lesley.stowers@defence.gov.au

Thanks FACSBy Andrew Stackpool

THE service of a little-known group of fighter pilots was re-called in late April when 16 For-ward Air Controllers (FACs) were presented with the US Air Medal for their ‘service and innovation in the air’ as FACs during the Vi-etnam War from 1965 to 1971.

Former Australian, US and New Zealand Air Force FACs gathered in Canberra for a five-day reunion from April 23-28, culmi-nating with the presentation of the awards by US Ambassador Robert D. McCallum, Jr on April 24. The widow of former AIRCDRE Bruce Searle received his medal.

Among them was GPCAPT Macaulay Cot t re l l (cal ls ign “Sidewinder 34”) from Russell Offices.

Thirty six RAAF pilots flew in Vietnam as FACs. They were fighter pilots with at least two tours’ experience, and served with the USAF for between six months and a year. Their roles were to spot enemy targets, call in and control artillery and air strikes against enemy ground forces, and to carry out visual reconnaissance. They flew for up to three hours a day, seven days a week.

GPCAPT Cottrell said he served from April to October, 1968, and was attached to the 19th Tactical Air Support Squadron at Bien Hoa, flying a Cessna O-1E Bird Dog.

“I conducted my in-country training/conversion at the 504th Theatre Indoctrination School at Phan Rang,” he said.

“I arrived at Lai Khe on Anzac Day, ’68, and was rapidly exposed to wartime dangers when I was at the receiving end of a 122mm rock-et barrage.

“I flew more than 240 missions accumulating some 550 hours in just over six months.”

Flying normally in light, slow

and unarmed spotter aircraft, to direct military aircraft and artil-lery operating in close support of ground forces, the FACs constantly risked being shot down. Despite the high risks, only one Australian FAC was shot down. He was subse-quently rescued unharmed.

GPCAPT Cottrell said the Australians had to be very adapt-able as they were flying in a com-pletely different Air Force, and invariably with little supervision.

They were highly decorated, with two Distinguished Service Orders, 15 Distinguished Flying Crosses, several Mentions in Dispatches and numerous American and South Vietnamese honours.

In his speech, Mr McCallum said that the FACs were “a vital link” between the bombers in the air and the troops on the ground.

“Their Australian practicality and creativity was evident as they developed their tactics and proce-dures,” the Ambassador said.

“Unarmed, the FACs stayed

above their troops, ensuring fighter and bomber aircraft knew where to put their ordnance. Many American GIs and Marines, and many Australian diggers were able to grow old thanks to the skill and bravery of the FACs.”

During their reunion, the FACs visited the Australian War Memorial (AWM) and Temora Aviation Museum, which provided flying displays by FAC aircraft of the period, and a PC-9/A Forward Air Control Development Unit (FACDU) aircraft.

On Anzac Day, several mem-bers attended the services. “The Americans were extremely touched by the way we honour our war dead,” GPCAPT Cottrell said.

On April 29, the FACs attended the dedication of a commemorative plaque in the grounds of the AWM. As they did so, two PC-9/A aircraft from FACDU conducted a fly-past, while three members of No. 28 (City of Canberra) Squadron acted as Flag Orderlies.

THEN AND NOW: Above, GPCAPT Mac Cottrell recalls his time as a FAC in Vietnam as he looks at an old photo of a young FLGOFF Cottrell and his mates. HONOURED: Below left, US Ambassador Robert D. McCallum, Jr presents retired Australian FAC Brian Fooks with his US Air Medal. Photos by CPL Ricky Fuller

DESCENDANTS of Australia’s first VC win-ner and an officer executed alongside “Breaker” Morant have been invited to a dedication cer-emony at the site of the proposed National Boer War Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra on May 31.

Family members of CAPT Neville Howse, who was awarded the VC for rescuing a wounded soldier under fire, and LT Peter Handcock, executed with LTs Harry Morant and George Witton for shooting Boer prisoners, are expected to attend.

“A national design competition will be held and the Prime Minister will have the final say,” Nigel Webster, a member of the National Boer War Committee, said. “The National Capital Authority has given us three years to have the memorial com-pleted. We have to raise a lot more money before it becomes a reality.”

May 31 was chosen for the dedication ceremony as it coincides with the 1902 Treaty of Vereeniging, which ended the war. The ceremony starts at 11am. Donations for the memorial can be made to the BWM Committee at Building 96, Victoria Barracks, Paddington NSW 2021, or via the internet at www.bwm.org.au

Boer memorial site dedication planned

AIR FORCE May 29, 2008 19 Lifestyle

EVERY day we hear of new advances and breakthroughs in sci-ence, health and all areas of human endeavour.

Unfortunately, similar advances are also being made by financial fraudsters, who are often quick to make use of new technology or social developments to steal from innocent victims.

‘Pie in the Sky’ awardsAt ASIC, we have established the

‘Pie in the Sky’ awards to identify the scams that have reached new lows.

This year’s winner is an advance fee fraud. This disturbing scam combines the use of technology through bulk emails with the very human tragedy of the Boxing Day tsunami. The emails, which were sent throughout the world, claimed to be from a lawyer from Togo handling the US$17 million estate of a man

Australian Securities and Investments Commission Chairman Tony D’Aloisio lists the winners of the ‘Pie in the Sky’ awards.

FINANCE

Prize-winning scams

AVOID THE TRAPS: Take time to check out any financial offers.

NOMINATE A SCAMIf you know of a scam you want to nomi-nate for the 2009 ‘Pie in the Sky’ awards, send an email to pieinthesky@asic.gov.au. There is a $100 prize for those who nominate scams that win an award. For more information about financial scams, go to ASIC’s consumer website, FIDO at www.fido.gov.au, or call on 1300 300 630. Email ASIC with topics that interest you at ADFcolumn@asic.gov.au

who died, along with his family, in the Boxing Day tsunami disaster in Phuket three years ago.

The email’s recipient ‘coincidentally’ had the same name as the deceased man and the lawyer claimed to have the role of establishing whether the deceased and the recipient were related. The scam operates on the basis that recipients will want to get a share of the wealth by claiming to be the deceased’s next of kin. The catch is, as usual, that to claim the money the recipient had to respond to the email and pay a fee.

Unsurprisingly, people are looking at new ways of tapping into other people’s superannuation savings – and this year’s runner-up, Instep Super, was doing this

quite blatantly, not to mention, unlaw-fully.

Instep Super was advertising on television, radio and online, offering 20 per cent returns and claiming it was “the best performing superannuation fund in Australia”.

ASIC found that Instep Super was unlicensed and had no plausible basis for claiming that it was the best performing fund. The Queensland Supreme Court declared that Instep Super’s claims were misleading and deceptive.

Third prize went to ASIC’s very own Electroharvest scam. Electroharvest was a dummy website set up by ASIC at www.electroharvest.com. It invited people to invest in a device that suppos-

edly recycled “ambient electromagnetic radiation” into usable household ener-gy, and promising to cut power bills by 37 per cent. People were invited to invest up to $40,000 with “guaranteed” returns of at least 30 per cent a year.

The website was launched on April Fool’s Day in 2007 to demonstrate how easy it is to create something that looks like a real investment. So far the site has had 75,000 hits – all of whom we hope have learned a little about the sophistication of investment fraud as a result.

Spotting scamsRegardless of the approach by

fraudsters, whether it is old-fashioned cold calling and postal mail or modern internet scams, there are some simple ways to spot scams and avoid losses: � Financial scams almost always offer

high returns. Sometimes they are easy to pick, with a return of 300 per cent a year or more; others, on the

other hand, might offer 20 per cent returns for a product that normally returns about 7 per cent interest.

� There’s often some feature to make you feel like you’ve got an edge over other people. The promise of special deals, secret opportunities and exclusive offers may make you feel you’re getting something really worthwhile.

� Scams are usually presented as “time-critical” and often implore people to hurry “before it’s too late” – but they’re really just trying to take your money before you check the offer properly.

� Treat all guarantees of returns or of your investment very carefully. With money and investments, a guarantee is only as reliable as the person or company offering it.

� We trust people we know. Sometimes these people can inno-cently be used to sell dangerous schemes, including scams. It’s called affinity fraud. Information and friendly advice can be help-ful, but be extra cautious with tips about specific investment opportuni-ties. You may need advice from a licensed adviser.The best way to avoid being

scammed is to stay informed. You can check a business offering a finan-cial product or a financial adviser by searching ASIC’s online registers at www.asic.gov.au to see if they are licensed, as required by law.

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20 Lifestyle AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

HEALTH

WHY isn’t your run time as good as you want? Have you over-trained and your times are actually dropping? Are you having trouble passing a PFT? Pick one of the three most common categories that is your closest fit:� Cat 1. Lack of prior training/base

conditioning (run out of puff: start well then slow down, then walk);

� Cat 2. Previous injury (run out of puff: start well and then slow down, then walk: return of overtraining/overuse injury symptoms); and

� Cat 3. Poor leg speed (you can keep running at the end of a race but couldn’t run faster during it).The three most common training

methods you can use are: continuous running, Fartlek and interval training.

Continuous runningYou can subdivide continuous run-

ning into two components, long slow distance (commonly known as LSD) and long solid distance or long fast dis-tance. This form of training requires you to continue running at a steady pace with your primary aims being:� Developing anatomical adaptations

(conditioning your body to handle the stress of running);

� Improving cardiovascular efficiency (improving the extraction of oxygen from the lungs to the blood and from the blood to the muscle); and

� Improving metabolic oxidative reac-tions (using your aerobic energy sys-tem more effectively).This kind of training is essential

if you fall into category one or two. Without this preparation you run a high risk of injury or repeat injury.

Just performing this training will help you run faster by allowing you to run at a continuous pace for the dura-tion of the run (as opposed to starting fast and getting slower or running out of breath).Run session example:� 20 minutes non-stop.Notes:

Using the Perceived Rate of Exertion (PRE) scale, aim for a score of between 6-7 (Score 0 = resting, Score 1-2 = walk-ing casually, Score 6-7 = can hold a con-versation for a short period, Score 8 = can answer a question but do not wish to have a conversation, Score 9 = yes or no answer only, Score 10 = hitting yourself on the finger with a hammer).

Pace should be continuous so that you finish at the same speed you started.

Fartlek trainingThis is the introduction to speed

training. This method involves manipu-lating speed and distance. For example, running at a slow pace for four hundred meters (two minutes), fast for two hun-dred (40 seconds), then repeating it sev-eral times, you have the option to make the slow or fast distances/times longer or shorter during the session.

Fartlek training is a progression for category one and two and will improve times for those in category three.Run session examples:� 400m slow pace, 200m medium pace,

100m fast pace, four repeats.� Three minutes slow pace, 1½ minutes

medium pace, 30 seconds fast pace,four repeats.

� Shuttle run levels 1-8, 6-9, 6-9, 6-9,5-8, 4, 2, 1.

Notes:Using the PRE scale, the slow paceshould reach a 5-6, the medium pace a6-8 and the fast pace between 8-9 (Score1 as resting and 10 as hitting yourself onthe finger with a hammer).

The duration on each training sessiontype will depend on your current fitnesslevels.

These sessions are not conductedcontinuously but rather are interspersedwith your continuous running sessionsand other forms of aerobic training.

Interval trainingThis is the third method and is pri-

marily used to increase speed and inten-sity with benefits which include:� Increased lactic acid tolerance (the

ability for the mind and body to copewith the developed lactic acid – thatburning feeling);

� Increased neurological stride fre-quency (the rhythmic speed at whichyour mind subconsciously tells yourfeet to run); and

� Improved anaerobic profiles (the abil-ity to sprint and recover).Interval training is by far the most

effective means of increasing run timesfor those who can complete the distancebut fail to get faster. Run session example:� 2 x 400m intervals (1:2 run: recovery),

4 x 200m intervals (1:3 run: recovery). � 60 seconds as fast as possible up a

small hill, 120 seconds rest (60 sec-onds walk back to start; 60 secondsrest at the start) x 5.

� Shuttle run, level 1-8, 1-2 (rest – norun), 10 x 6 times through.

Notes:Further information on active (slow

walk/jog) and passive (no movement)recoveries and energy system profiles isavailable from PTI staff.

Using the PRE scale, the fast paceshould be 8-10.

These sessions are not conductedcontinuously but rather interspersedwith your continuous running, Fartlekand other aerobic training sessions.

PreparationYou must ensure that you have pro-

gressed effectively prior to beginningthis high-intensity training and that youhave no medical condition, which maycreate contra-indications. If unsure seeyour PTI or medical staff.

ProgressionConditioning yourself to run faster

takes time, and several weeks of con-tinuous running should be performedprior to introducing Fartlek, which againrequires several weeks of adaptationbefore advancing to interval training.

From there, maintain a base fitnesslevel by utilising continuous runningwith periodic applications of Fartlek andinterval training sessions.

You’ve failed to improve your run times or over-trained and decreased your time. LT Rob Orr has some plans to get you back on track.

Runningfurther faster

PRIOR PREPARATION: Make sure you are medically fit and at an appropriate level of fitness before starting intensive training. Photo by LS Yuri Ramsey

LifestyleAIR FORCE May 29, 2008

Turning 30-something?Don’t let your birthday end in higher premiums.

30 JuneJoin by

If your partner is 30-something and does not have private hospital insurance, then they’re looking at higher premiums.

Under the Federal Government Lifetime Health Cover initiative, health funds are required to apply a 2% premium loading for every year a person delays purchasing hospital cover after turning 30.

As a permanent member of the ADF, the premium loading will not affect you until you discharge. However you do need to consider its effect on your partner.

By purchasing Defence Health hospital cover by 30 June, your partner’s premium loading will be minimised. And if you make the purchase by 30 June, following your partner’s 31st birthday, the loading will be avoided altogether.

Remember, the longer you leave it the more it will cost.

For details call Defence Health on 1800 335 425 or visit www.defencehealth.com.au

21

By Sean Roberts

TECHNICALLY speaking, this game should be called MX vs ATV vs Buggy vs Truck, but that would be nit-picking.

For the seventh game in this series they’ve started to reach the limit of off-road vehicles they can cram in to extend the licence, with a few choices being not much more than a novelty.

More of the same

GAMES

If you’ve been keeping up with the franchise, you can expect another onslaught of modes, customisation, and vehicles to keep you very busy.

As well as the usual bunch of stadium and open air events, there are now new variations in the form of Endurocross and Opencross, with the majority of your time spent jumping between these events in the game’s career mode, the X-cross tournament.

Unfortunately, events can drag on with heavy repetition and, for the first game in the series to feature sharp hi-def graphics, Untamed doesn’t stand

out as all that impressive. But it still looks pretty solid and, coupled with the amped-up sound effects and music, it fits the Arcady approach to the extreme sport pretty well.

Untamed won’t set the world on fire. It suffers from being one of far too many sequels which change far too lit-tle, which makes it hard to recommend to established fans who already own the previous few titles. But if you’re fresh to the series or the idea of fanging off a few jumps on a dirt bike sounds like a good time to you, there’s definitely some fun to be had here.

MX vs ATV UntamedTHQ Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, Wii PG ��3.5

X-CROSS: Fun, if you like your action in the dirt.

By SGT Dave MorleyIF you enjoyed films like Mad

Max and Wolf Creek, you will defi-nitely enjoy Cactus.

It gets its name from “choose the wrong road and you’re …”

A lbur y -bor n ac to r Trav is McMahon (Kokoda) plays the part of desperate kidnapper John Kelly while David Lyons (Sea Patrol) plays professional gambler Eli Jones, kidnapped by Kelly.

Bryan Brown has a cameo role as the no-nonsense bush cop whose “patch” seems to cover most of outback Australia.

He doubles as the film’s execu-tive producer.

Thommo, the hapless truckie, is ably played by Shane Jacobson (Kenny).

This time around, he’s not installing portaloos. He might have been better if he was.

But the main stars are the deso-late outback terrain and “Bonnie”, a red 1972 XA Ford Fairmont with a boot like Pandora’s box.

The genre is a road movie,

CactusStars Travis McMahon, David Lyons, Shane Jacobson and Bryan Brown. M ��3.5

A victim, a villain and duelling cars

MOVIES

TESTOSTERONE: A blokey duel between classic cars.

which our unforgiving outback scenery allows Australian film-mak-ers to do particularly well.

It has a victim, a villain, a car and harsh country.

Sometimes the line between victim and villain becomes as hazy as the landscape.

Watch for the underlying Holden versus Ford theme throughout.

This is the first film for 34-year-old director Jasmine Yuen Carrucan who admitted: “Yes, I suppose it’s a bit blokey.”

The film’s locations include Sydney, Bathurst, Cobar, Broken Hill and Wilcannia.

Don’t be put off by the Wiggles music in the soundtrack. It’s there for a reason.

By SGT Dave Morley

THIS isn’t just another one of those boring step-by-step histories. Nor is it some bloke’s gung ho door-kicking memoirs. It is a very readable collection of short stories about 20 British SAS soldiers.

After a foreword by highly acclaimed author Frederick Forsythe, the author Pete Scholey starts with LTCOL Paddy Mayne’s story. Despite winning the DSO four times, a VC eluded him.

Scholey then works his way through to the Gulf War with stories of not just the bravery in action of men he knew, but their

SAS Heroes: Remarkable Soldiers, Extraordinary MenPete Scholey. Osprey Publishing. $50

BOOKS

DVDs

Mafia tale well worth a lookThe Sopranos – Season 6: The Final EpisodesWarner Home Video, $75 MA15+

By Mark UhlmannTHE story of a mafia organisation

operating in New Jersey, The Sopranos, gathered a devoted following in its six seasons. This DVD presents the nine epi-sodes from the final season.

The central character, Tony Soprano, is the boss. His operatives include his nephew Christopher, a veteran called Paulie, brother-in-law Bobbie and Silvio Dante, the owner of the Bada Bing strip club where the crew often hangs out.

By the end of these episodes only two of them are left standing.

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everyday lives. Many of the stories he tells have not been told before.

The few that were like that of Labalaba and Takavesi, the two gallant Fijians at Mirbat, have not been told in

such detail. The author tells how

Takavesi was wounded in a vehicle ambush in Basra 31 years after being shot in the chest in the 1972 Mirbat action.

He relates how MAJ Michael ‘Bronco’ Lane lost his fingers.

Not from a booby trap as one might expect, but from frostbite while descending Mt Everest in 1976.

Pete Scholey spent 19 years in the British SAS during the 60s and 70s, beginning his military career as a National Serviceman in the Royal Army Service Corps. Highly recommended.

This DVD opens with Tony feeling his age. At 47 he feels his physical powers slipping. The year before he was almost killed after his increasingly senile uncle – once a feared mafia boss and Tony’s rival – shot him in a delusional moment.

He sees threats everywhere – and one in particular is very real, from Phil Leotardo, who becomes the leader of the New York mafia outfit.

The relationships are complex, but very believable. Nothing is black and white in this world. Acts of vengeance bring unintended consequences and expectations are often thwarted.

These final episodes maintain the high standard of the earlier offerings and – for those who have not seen the show before – this is well worth a look.

True hero stories: hard to put down

22 Sport AIR FORCE May 29, 2008

IF THE thought of head-spin-ning loops, rolls or ‘pulling G’ in an aircraft makes your stomach churn, spare a thought for SQNLDR Tony Blair who recently flew himself to victory in the intermediate category at the Australian Aerobatics Champion-ships in Parkes, NSW.

Asked how much ‘G’ he had experi-enced in competition, he replied with a wry smile: “The meter showed +9.5G, probably after squaring-off from the vertical down toward the competition box lower limit.

“The negative-G needle also hit the stop at minus five but wouldn’t have been much more than that.”

SQNLDRs Tony Blair and Stuart Hutchinson, both from Headquarters Air Command at RAAF Base Glenbrook, flew two aircraft to Parkes at Easter for the largest national aerobatics compe-tition in Australian history – with 38 competitors.

Most states were represented, with Western Australia fielding nine pilots.

Parkes is the traditional venue for the nationals; an excellent site for aero-batic competition because of its low traffic density, fair weather and well-serviced airfield and facilities.

SQNLDR Blair competes in his own single-seat, mid-winged monoplane, designed specifically for unlimited cat-egory competition aerobatics.

The Rebel 300 is the only one of its kind in Australia but similar to the Edge 540 type often flown to success in the Red Bull Air Race series.

“Frankly, it isn’t useful for much other than aerobatics but for its design goal, it performs extremely well,” SQNLDR Blair said.

“It is great to fly an aeroplane with virtually no limits in which you can pull or push as hard as you like and, with such a high power to weight ratio, the Rebel is almost capable of hovering.”

When asked to compare the com-petition to Air Force flying, SQNLDR Blair said: “I owe a lot to my Air Force flying training and instructing experi-ence in the PC-9, F-111 and CT-4, but aerobatic competition is quite different.

“Three frantic minutes of precision flying at high-G requires tremendous 3D position and wind awareness, and split-second timing, so it’s a great chal-lenge and a lot of fun.

“To be competitive at Parkes just six months after taking delivery of the Rebel 300 took a lot of training, coach-

ing and support from friends, family and other club members.”

SQNLDR Blair built his first air-craft, a Harmon Rocket II, which first flew in 2005.

“The Rocket was fast and great for basic aerobatics but the more I flew, the more interested I became in competi-tion,” he said.

“I spent a lot of time mixing with other competitors and before long I

was hooked. I swore that I’d never sell the Rocket but reluctantly parted with it for the Rebel.

“My wife, Angela, wasn’t so keen to see the weekend getaway machine self-ishly traded for a single-seater.

“But I couldn’t have achieved suc-cess without her.

“She’s been a great support, espe-cially caring for our twin babies while I train and compete.”

SQNLDR Hutchinson is building an F1 Rocket (VH-FLY) and took photo-graphs of the competition at Parkes.

They can be viewed at www.blairaerosport.com.au/photoalbum/

“It would be fantastic to have an approved Air Force or ADF aerobatic competition,” SQNLDR Blair said.

Information for this article courtesy of SQNLDRs Blair and Hutchinson.

Blair wins in a spin

INTO THE BLUE: Above, SQNLDR Tony Blair reaches for the sky at the Australian Aerobatics Championships in Parkes. Right, a ‘missing man’ formation during the championships marks the recent death of aerobatics enthusiast Bryscen Teape-Davis. Photos by SQNLDR Stuart Hutchison

THREE families based with ADF units at RMAF Base Butterworth have an extra reason to be proud.

Their young children were recently selected to represent their school at a sports competition at Manila in the Philippines.

The children are Kate and Nick Bomm, the children of WOFF Jason Bomm (92WG Detachment A); Austin Carter, the son of FLTLTs Dane and Tanya Carter of 324CSS; and Brooke Quilter, the daughter of WO2 Greg Quilter, with the Army’s 2nd/30th Training Group.

They a t t end S t Chr i s tophe r ’s International Primary School (SCIPS) on Penang Island. It is one of the group B schools within the Federation of British International Schools in South East Asia (FOBISSEA). They will be attending the FOBISSEA Primary Games for Group B schools championships, which is being hosted by the British School in Manila from June 8-11. The competition compris-es four sports: athletics, swimming, soccer

ADF kids in medal hunt

and t-ball, and the ADF children will be competing in all four.

“It is a wonderful experience for these children to travel to another country to compete in a sporting event,” FLTLT Tanya Carter said. “I think it is a great result that four ADF children are in the team, especially as two only arrived at SCIPS in January.”

LITTLE ATHLETICS: Front, from left, is Kate Bomm, Brooke Quilter, Austin Carter and Nick Bomm, with dads FLTLT Dane Carter and WOFF Jason Bomm behind them.

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TSD_ad5_20x14.8.indd 2 17/5/08 3:01:31 PM

SportAIR FORCE May 29, 2008

* Premium based on standard premium rates for a Permanent ADF or ADF Reserve, non-smoker applying for $100,000 of term life insurance only. All applications are subject to underwriting. The insurer reserves the right to change premium rates in future and you will be given 30-days notice in writing.

This information is general advice only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial objectives or needs. We recommend you consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Financial Services Guide before deciding whether to buy or keep this product which is issued by Asteron Life Limited ABN 64 001 698 228, AFSL 237903. More details about the product are contained in the PDS which you can obtain by visiting defencehealth.com.au or by calling 1800 335 425 (a freecall). The product is promoted by Defence Health Limited ABN 80 008 629 481 AFSL 313890.

AT YOUR FINANCIAL SERVICE®

You’ll be covered for terminal illness, accidental death and death for any other reason.

And if your policy is issued before notice of deployment to warlike operations, you’ll continue to be covered while deployed.

Apply for Defence Health Term Life insurance today and protect those you love from life’s unexpected events.

Call 1800 335 425 or visit defencehealth.com.auto download a brochure.

$100,000 of life insurance for just 40¢ a day*

Peace of mind that won’t break the bank

23

GOALIE FLGOFF Mark Ross won the Rookie of the Year Award at the completion of the Australian Country men’s hockey team’s recent tour of Singapore.

The award was decided by the team captain and vice-captain, with Army’s PTE Tristan Hunt being judged by his peers in the team as the Players’ Player.

FLGOFF Ross and PTE Hunt were joined on their overseas tour of duty by LAC Adam Humrich for the two-Test series against the Singapore national team.

In addition to the three players, FLTLT Alan Brown and WO2 Scotty Downs were members of the team staff; FLTLT Brown as assistant coach and WO2 Downs as team manager.

The Australian Country team was selected at the 2007 Australian National Country Hockey Championships, where the Defence men returned their best result in more than a decade by finishing second to Queensland. The number of ADF members in the national country team reflected that effort.

“FLGOFF Ross’s performance in the final against Queensland put him on the plane to Singapore,” WO2 Downs said.

LAC Humrich was brought in as a replacement after Army’s CAPT Glenn Miller was unable to attend because of operational commitments.

“We arrived in country and immediately began the process of acclimatisation,” WO2 Downs said of the tour. “Having to achieve this as quickly as possible, with a team that consisted of players from many parts of Australia, some of the boys found this more difficult than others. Some of the Victorians really struggled with the 36 degree heat and 80 to 90 per cent humidity.”

The team played several lead-up matches in prepara-tion for the Test series, easily accounting for provincial sides while building strength against the heat.

Both Tests were evenly-fought with the attack flowing from end to end. Both gave of their best, with Singapore winning the first Test 2-1, and Australian Country the second 2-1.

“To compete evenly and beat an international team from any country is a significant achievement and one the members of the squad will no doubt remember for the rest of their lives,” Defence Hockey public relations manager, LEUT Stuart Cayzer, said.

“Australian Defence Hockey congratulates the ADF members who took part in the tour and wishes them the best for the next Australian Country Championships in Busselton, Western Australia, from July 26 to August 2.” For more information on coming events or points of con-tact in your state, look up the Defence Hockey intranet page at: http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/Sites/Hockey/ or contact LEUT Stuart Cayzer on 04111 07865.

By Barry Rollings

THE Australian Services Austral-ian Football Association is seeking that special breed who can make it in the cauldron of match umpiring.

The ASAFA’s umpiring arm is seek-ing officials with the “right stuff”.

Apart from the physical fitness and knowledge of the rules, it takes little more than a casual observation of any sport to conclude that umpires need cool heads, a good sense of humour and the ability and self-esteem to slough off criticism in the heat of the action.

“While prevalent in many mod-ern-day sports, umpire abuse is often more at home in Australian football,”

ASAFA director of umpires, WO2 Clay Baker, said.

“Abusing the ‘man in white’ – now just as common to be women and dressed in many colours apart from white – is as much a part of the game as long shots for goal, exciting displays of skills and high marks.

“Still, people put their hands up to take on the responsibility. They tolerate unqualified critiques of their perform-ance so that players can enjoy the game in a safe and controlled environment.”

He said umpires are drawn from dif-ferent backgrounds, with former play-ers and fans of the game entering the umpiring ranks in order to return some-thing to the game they love so much.

“This is often lost on the spectators, but the umpires I know are all about providing a safe environment for the players.”

WO2 Baker said Service umpires are no exception, with some very good and highly qualified Defence umpires officiating at Service competi-tions. There is always room for more umpires, however.

“Within the Services, umpires can enjoy officiating at unit, Service, inter-Service and representative level,” he said. For more information on Service umpir-ing, contact WO2 Clay Baker on (03) 5950 7474.

Calling all Service umpires

Rookie reward

TEAM HOCKEY: From left, FLGOFF Mark Ross, FLTLT Alan Brown, WO2 Scott G. Downs, Rob Laffin and PTE Tristan Hunt.

Photo courtesy of LEUT Stuart Cayzer

FIELDING TALENT: There are many opportunities available for Service umpires with the right

qualifications. Pictured is PLTOFF Paul Andrews umpiring an AFL grand final in Newcastle last year.

Photo courtesy of WO2 Clay Baker

SPORT Inside: ■ Hockey ■ AerobaticsMay 29, 2008

FUN INNINGSBy Barry Rollings

SOME suspected the version of the Duckworth-Lewis scoring system as BAE Systems conjured a second suc-cessive win in the annual 1RSU-BAE Systems Trophy cricket match in Al-ice Springs on April 21.

No. 1 Radar Surveillance Unit (1RSU) from RAAF Base Edinburgh was unbeaten until surrendering the tro-phy to BAE Systems last year.

Amid some murmurings that some of the BAE Systems sub-contractors

wielding the willow for it in recent times were in reality Alice Springs A-graders, 1RSU was still satisfied enough when it had compiled 70 runs off 18 of its allocated overs this time around.

The match was played under the 20-20 format, with all batsmen required to retire after 25 runs and all players bowling two overs each.

In the case of a team facing the pos-sibility of being dismissed before its allocated 20 overs, batsmen who have

scored more than 25 runs can return to the crease.

1RSU batted first. The dislocation of CPL Nathan Selick’s right knee ended the innings and proved a turning point for the worse for them.

A win for BAE was not on either team’s radar as 1RSU began to take wickets while BAE attacked the run tar-get. With two overs to go, the call went out from 1RSU – “how many do BAES need to win?”

“Thirty runs,” came the reply.

But when 1RSU began its second last over, it learned that, after appeal-ing against the light, instead of 15 runs an over to win, a second look at the Duckworth-Lewis revealed that BAE had two overs or 12 balls from which to take six runs to win. From there it was an easy win by three wickets for BAE.

Nevertheless, organiser SGT Jason Muller is optimistic that 1RSU can bounce back next year.

“We expect that some star players, who were unavailable this year because

of work commitments, will be able to take to the field,” he said.

Outstanding for 1RSU was LAC TyShields who scored 25, backed up by CPL Dave Moore with a quickfire 18 and a brilliant short mid-wicket catch in close. Bowling honours were sharedaround, with most taking a wicket.

“The game was played in good spir-it and everyone had a great time,” SGTMuller said. See Page 7 for the full story on 1RSU’s visit to Alice Springs.

MATCHMAKER: CPL Dan Hickey prepares to connect during the annual cricket match between 1RSU and BAE

Systems staff at Alice Springs. BAE won by three wickets.

Photo by AC Vasilis Solomou