RCEAIRF August 25, 2016 Exercise Pitch Black 1

Done and dusted

SPECIAL LIFT-OUT

Landing with purpose in new territory

A C-130J Hercules from 37SQN takes off from Timber Creek Airfield in the Northern Territory during Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

RCEAIR FAugust 25, 20162 Exercise Pitch Black

FLGOFF Tracey Li

INTERNATIONAL cooperation works on the ground as well as in the air, as evidenced by the combined approach to security during Exercise Pitch Black.

Members from 2SECFOR worked with security counterparts from New Zealand at RAAF Base Darwin.

SGT David Miller, a military work-ing dog handler with 2SECFOR, said the unit’s role at Pitch Black was to protect Australian and foreign air assets and personnel through detect, deter and deny threats.

“Our counterparts from the Royal New Zealand Air Force joined us this year and it has been a great learning opportunity for both sides,” SGT Miller said.

“We realised there are many differ-ences in our procedure, but we’ve man-aged to work closely with each other to overcome those differences. I believe now we have a much better work rela-tionship.”

For Pitch Black, 2SECFOR provided security police officers, airfield defence guards and military working dog han-dlers.

S Q N D L R B r e t t G r e e n , t h e Q u e e n s l a n d R eg i o n a l S e c u r i t y Commander from 2SECFOR, said the unit was very proud of its ability to pro-vide concentrated security effect to safe guard air power.

“Exercise Pitch Black provided a unique chance to for us to practise joint operations,” SQNDLR Green said.

“It can sometimes be difficult as our personnel and assets are spread over four RAAF bases in the eastern region.”

Ongoing experience with the exercise allowed 2SECFOR to meet operational commitments, such as the Middle East.

“The work ethics and commitment of our members are impressive,” he said.

“They work really long hours and there is very little complaint – it’s a true reflection of their professionalism.”

LACW Amy Richardson

EOD technicians detonated a bomb found near the wreckage of a Japa-nese Betty Bomber that was shot down near Darwin in 1942.

Located during Exercise Pitch Black, the 60kg Type 97 High Explosive Bomb was discovered on the Cox Peninsula by Air Battlespace Managers WGCDR Mark Barry, SQNLDR Justin Filmer, and FLTLT Murray Ross.

An interest in WWII history led the trio to the aircraft’s wreckage site on August 6, where they almost didn’t see the bomb.

“It was like a needle in a hay stack,” FLTLT Ross said. “It was pretty exhilarating to find such a historical artefact, which I imagine is quite rare.”

The thrill quickly turned to con-cern as they realised the implication of what they’d found.

“You’ve got a potentially live and unstable piece of ordnance sitting out in the scrub, that’s been there for

about 74 years since it tumbled to the earth,” FLTLT Ross said.

The discovery was a sombre experience for FLTLT Ross, consid-ering the Japanese aircrew who lost their lives when the aircraft exploded in mid-air during its raid.

“For whatever reason they found themselves over the skies of Darwin all those years ago, a lot of water has gone under the bridge,” FLTLT Ross said.

Following the discovery, the trio alerted EOD technicians who, with the help of Northern Territory Police, cleared the area before safely dis-posing of the bomb on August 10.

A Defence explosives expert said historical records regarding the Type 97 Bomb confirmed that it was still fully fused.

“Due to the condition of the fuse, it is likely the bomb was scattered when the plane exploded, rather than being purposely dropped,” the expert said.

Disposal experts detonated the bomb with its full energetic effect.

“This highlights the dangers associated with old bombs and other ordnance. Some people believe because an item is old it is safe; this cannot be farther from the truth. Ex-plosives remain dangerous and tend to become more unstable with age.”

The wreckage of Mitsubishi G4M1 Betty Bomber, serial T-361, lies scattered over an area of about two kilometres on Cox Peninsula.

It was one of six bombers sent to bomb the RAAF Station at Darwin on April 4, 1942, but was intercepted over Darwin by anti-aircraft fire and P-40E fighters of the USAAF’s 9th Squadron, 49th Fighter Group.

The bodies of the crewmen were buried at the crash site the following day, but were later reburied at Ber-rimah War Cemetery before being relocated to Cowra, NSW.

In 2006 they were commemorat-ed with plaques bearing their names at the grave sites at Cowra.

Paws and effect

Betty makes an impact

Below right: F/A-18F Super Hornets from 1SQN at RAAF Base Darwin.Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Bottom right: Members of 77SQN take part in Exercise Pitch Black.Photo: CPL Casey Gaul

LAC Aaron Peacock, a military working

dog handler, and Jag, practise a counter

intruder drill during Exercise Pitch Black.

Photo: CPL David Gibbs

FLTLT Murray Ross, Air Combat Officer, of No. 3 Control and Reporting unit. Photo: CPL Casey Gaul

People

RCEAIR F August 25, 2016 Exercise Pitch Black 3

Pitch Black, as it is designed to do, pushed skills – and taste buds – to the limit, FLTLT Darren Carruthers report

Peak performance

AIR Force’s biggest annual exercise was labelled a resounding success as 20 days of complex interna-tional training drew to a close on

August 19.This year’s Exercise Pitch Black brought

together more than 2800 participants from 10 countries and more than 115 aircraft, operating in airspace between Darwin and Katherine in the Northern Territory.

GPCAPT Peter Davies, the exercise’s Task Unit commander, said all the par-ticipating nations’ expectations had been exceeded.

“I’m happy to say that Exercise Pitch Black 2016 has been a resounding success,” GPCAPT Davies said.

“The opportunity to run large force employment (LFE) training during both day and night scenarios has promoted a strong interoperability capability between the par-ticipant nations.

“Pitch Black has allowed us to consoli-date our capabilities and prepare for the future.”

During the exercise, up to 80 military aircraft were flying at a time, completing a range of complex air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

The coordination of these missions with air mobility and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms afford-ed Pitch Black a greater focus on air-land integration.

“The beauty of Pitch Black is that we can bring everyone together in two loca-tions and exercise in a massive piece of airspace between Darwin and Tindal,” GPCAPT Davies said.

“As a defence force, we need to be prepared to operate in the most dangerous situations. Exercise Pitch Black 2016 has provided that vital training.”

Royal Thai Air Force Detachment Commander GPCAPT Chanon Mungthanya hailed the exercise a success.

He said the Pitch Black missions pushed his crews “to the limit”.

“Having the chance to operate our air-craft and crews at a high capacity is very important to our training program, which is why we keep coming back to Pitch Black exercises,” GPCAPT Chanon Mungthanya said.

In addition to enhancing interoperability between regional partners, Exercise Pitch Black 2016 provided an opportunity for some “unique” cultural exchanges.

“We have had some cultural exchanges during this exercise that included my first taste of Vegemite,” GPCAPT Chanon Mungthanya said. “It is very different – like a combination of soy sauce and beer.”

‘The beauty of Pitch Black is that we can bring everyone together in two locations and exercise in a massive piece of airspace.

GPCAPT Peter DaviesCommander Task Unit

Exercise Pitch Black

4 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F August 25, 2016 5

A joint effort had the Hercules hooked up to the battlespace network in time for our biggest exercise of the year, FSGT Gary-Jon Darrigo and FLTLT Eamon Hamilton report

TOUGH missions into the outback by RAAF Hercules require careful work by aircraft technicians, such as LAC Rauf Barker, to ensure the aircraft remain in working order.

“As aircraft technicians, we make sure the Herc is safe to fly,” LAC Barker said.

“I am responsible for all the mechanical, hy-draulic and pneumatic systems, including the flight controls.”

Airdropping cargo and landing on gravel runways mean that Hercules systems, such as the landing gear and cargo ramp, got a workout during Exercise Pitch Black

“All the maintenance and services need to be done correctly and, as a supervisor, I have to make sure the troops are doing their job correctly too,” LAC Barker said.

LAC Barker, who was participating in Exercise Pitch Black for the second time, said the mainte-nance team was busy from the start.

For the Hercules, exercise missions are often supplemented by real-world operations to support those in need.

“We were recently involved in a search-and-rescue tasking that involved a lot of flying,” LAC Barker said.

“I enjoyed seeing all the fast jets getting around, and it was good to see all things you wouldn’t nor-mally see at home.

“I do love our jets the most but I enjoy seeing the F-16s. They’re quite powerful for smaller single-engine fighters.”

ONLINE AND IN CONTROL

Safe to fly, thanks to the techs

A DEDICATED team supported a pair of Air Force C-130J Hercules at Exercise Pitch Black, includ-ing operations officer (OPSO) PLTOFF Alistair Hedderwick.

Working with the 37SQN detachment at RAAF Base Darwin for the exercise, PLTOFF Hedderwick said his role was mainly concerned with flying program management.

“In my role as OPSO, I’m basically the link between the aircrew and the maintenance side of the squadron, as well as all the external tasking agencies,” he said.

There were a lot of customers for the Her-cules at Pitch Black. Ground units needed to be transported and resupplied within the exercise area, and other units needed to be airlifted to their bases.

“This was my first big exercise and it was pretty busy, but it was a great experience with a rapid learning curve,” PLTOFF Hedderwick said.

“All the different nations and their aircraft were a definite highlight for me. I’ve never seen F-16s up close and the Singaporean G550 is a pretty cool aircraft too.”

When back at RAAF Base Richmond, PLTOFF Hedderwick works with a team that supports Hercules flying operations across Australia and around the globe.

The intensity of Exercise Pitch Black, however, was different to that of Richmond.

“We have to support five lines of tasking [at Richmond], using six or seven aircraft and a lot more crew. So, in some ways, it’s simplified with more room to manoeuvre.”

The link that keeps jets in the air

THE venerable Hercules is now “online” in the battles-pace, thanks to support from 41 Wing.

Connectivity to the Link-16 bat-tlespace network was installed on a No. 37 Squadron C-130J Hercules in time for Exercise Pitch Black.

The upgrade first required support from Tactical Data Link (TDL) spe-cialists within 41WG.

OC 41 Wing GPCAPT Peter Davies said the system had been certified on the Hercules by the ADF Tactical Data Link Authority (ADFTA).

“I have been impressed by the ease with which 41WG air sur-veillance operators responded to 37SQN’s request for technical assis-tance,” GPCAPT Davies said.

“This was a great example of innovation being supported through open engagement across the Air Force.

“The result was an enhanced application of air power that was demonstrated with great effect at Exercise Pitch Black.”

OC 84 Wing GPCAPT Carl Newman welcomed 41WG’s support

to the Hercules, including a three-day trial at RAAF Base Williamtown.

“The Hercules is now ‘online’ for the first time in the aircraft’s 58-year career with the RAAF,” GPCAPT Newman said.

“This is our first step with Link-16 to realise enhanced command and control of the C-130J while also improving the situational awareness for our crews and other network par-ticipants in the C-130J mission.

“This is one of the most important systems to be fielded by the C-130 in recent times, and we’re thankful to 41WG for helping us to roll it out.”

Link-16 is expected to enhance the ability of the C-130J to support “high-end” tactical airlift missions in operational theatres. For example, a C-130J crew could see the position of coalition aircraft, including escorts, and pass its information on to com-mand and control agencies.

The Air Force’s fleet of 12 C-130Js will all receive Link-16 con-nectivity, joining a suite of upgrades that also includes improvements to its communications, self-defence and payload delivery systems.

C-130J pilot FLTLT Shaun

Wilkinson said the impact of Link-16 would be felt by a number of differ-ent agencies.

“Without Link-16, the aircrew have to work significantly harder to do their core business of delivering cargo and personnel in an operational area,” he said.

“Previously, Hercules crews built a mental picture of their battlespace through listening to radio calls. The introduction of Link-16 allows them to see the bigger picture in real time, receive mission updates or pass on information themselves.”

FLTLT Wilkinson said the work of 41WG would unlock the full potential of Link-16 on the Hercules.

“Link-16 is more than just a Hercules communicating with other aircraft like the Wedgetail or Hornet – it connects us with battlespace net-works managed by 41WG,” he said.

“We now stand to benefit from wider development by 41WG, the RAAF, and coalition partners.”

Members of 41WG welcomed the opportunity to work with 37SQN crews during the roll-out of Link-16 on the C-130J.

The 41WG team, led by SGT

Michael Ward, helped to functionally appraise the system.

“We provided the 37SQN crew with a familiarisation of the capabil-ity, and an awareness of the product they could employ,” SGT Michael Ward said.

“The crew was very receptive to any of our ideas, and provid-ed us with the freedom to demon-strate the capability and develop its application.

“The support from 41WG there-fore allowed both parties to under-stand each other’s capability.”

For 41WG, providing Link-16 to air mobility platforms is largely new ground.

CPL Joao Silva, TDL manager at No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit, said it was important during the trial to understand the specific informa-tion needs of C-130J crews.

“Discussing the needs of 37SQN allows us to provide improved AMG support,” CPL Silva said.

“We’re able to direct explicit data to them in real time that is relevant to their mission.”

Air power

37SQN pilot FLTLT Shaun Wilkinson (left) and air surveillance operator CPL Joao Silva on the flight deck of a C-130J Hercules during Exercise Pitch BlackPhoto: LS Jayson Tufrey

People Words and photos: LS Jayson Tufrey

‘All the different nations and their aircraft were a definite highlight.

PLTOFF Alistair Hedderwick

‘I enjoyed seeing all the fast jets getting around, and it was good to see things you wouldn’t normally see at home.

LAC Rauf Barker

A 37SQN C-130J Hercules taxis at Timber Creek Airfield in the Northern Territory as part of Exercise Pitch Black.Photo: CPL David Gibbs

RCEAIR FAugust 25, 20166 Exercise Pitch Black

A BEACH sunset during the Mindil Markets is always a drawcard for tourists during the Darwin dry season.

But it came with an added airborne attraction on August 11, when No. 1 Squadron turned on a five-minute handling display by an F/A-18F Super Hornet.

Organised as part of Exercise Pitch Black, the aerial display also included flypasts by a C-17A, AP-3C, C-130J, and a French CN-235.

Crowds also witnessed a forma-tion composed of a Hornet and Super Hornet, coupled with a Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15 and F-16.

Pitch Black community engage-

ment liaison officer SQNLDR Lindsay Paterson said the aerial display was an opportunity to thank the Northern Territory community for its continued support of Defence.

“Support from the local community is really important for Air Force, and it was important for us to give something back to the community,” SQNLDR Paterson said.

“The handling display was a feature in the planning of Pitch Black because we know the community love it.

“During the planning phase we look for opportunities that Air Force can contribute to, and this year that has included involvement of the Air Force jazz band in the Darwin Festival.”

She said Air Force had strived to ensure Territorians had access to as much information as possible, not only about the handling display and the open day, on August 13 at RAAF Base Darwin, but also about the exercise itself.

“We organised a booth at the Darwin Show to distribute information about the exercise and talk to people about what was coming up,” SQNLDR Paterson said.

“We were thrilled to hear the posi-tive responses from people.

“We plan to build on our engage-ment with the community in the future to ensure people can make plans around the exercise activities.”

A beachfront view to a spectacular twilight display was the least we could offer the public, FLTLT Eamon Hamilton writes

SUN SETS ON A SIGHT TO BEHOLD

BRAVING an unseasonally chilly Darwin morning, more than 65 Air Force personnel in Darwin raised awareness for White Ribbon Aus-tralia with a run, held in conjunction with Exercise Pitch Black.

The run was held by No. 13 Squadron as part of Air Force’s ongoing campaign to become a White Ribbon Australia-accredited workplace.

Deputy Chief of Staff Air Force HQ GPCAPT John Martin said the statistics on domestic violence against women were disturbing.

“At least one woman is killed on average every week as a direct result

of violence perpetrated by a man,” he said.

“One of the leading contributors to death for women aged 15-44 is domestic violence – again caused by men. I was shocked when I learned of those statistics.”

CO 13SQN WGCDR Wes Perrett said it was important for RAAF to become accredited with White Rib-bon Australia.

“We need to demonstrate, not only internally but also with the Aus-tralian public, that we are opposed to men’s violence against women,” he said.

In stride with White Ribbon

GPCAPT John Martin addresses participants before the fun run.Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

Community

Locals watch the aerial display from Mindil Beach.Inset: the display included an F/A-18F Super Hornet, F/A-18A Classic Hornet, and F-15 and F-16 aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

RCEAIR F August 25, 2016 Exercise Pitch Black 7

FLTLT Nick O’Connor

A RECORD crowd of more than 18,000 people were drawn to the Exercise Pitch Black Open Day at RAAF Base Darwin on August 13.

The visitors saw the Australian and international aircraft and crews that had been flying in the Northern Territory.

Head of Special Events AIRCDRE Noddy Sawade said the event was an opportunity to thank the Territorians for their continued support of Pitch Black.

“We could not achieve essential military training in the Top End with-out the support of the community,” AIRCDRE Sawade said.

“With up to 115 aircraft and approximately 2800 personnel from 10 countries taking part in this exer-cise, we wanted to say a big thank you to the Northern Territory for hosting us and our international partners.”

The continued support of local communities is extremely important in allowing the Air Force to train its people and prepare for operations around the globe.

The open day was held as a free family-friendly event, with interac-tive exhibits from units deployed to Darwin and Tindal.

Crowds also enjoyed performances by the Air Force Band, and saw mili-tary working dogs going through their paces.

“The open day and the Mindil Beach flying displays showcased Air Force’s capabilities to the public and provided them with the opportunity to talk to military personnel,” AIRCDRE Sawade said.

Gratitude on display at popular open day

FLGOFF Tracey Li

CLOSE ties between Singapore and Aus-tralia were reinforced when CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies visited the Lion City’s Detach-ment at RAAF Base Darwin on August 8.

Coming on the eve of Singapore’s Na-tional Day, on August 9, the visit allowed AIRMSHL Davies to inspect the F-15SG and F-16C fighter jets participating in Exer-cise Pitch Black.

AIRMSHL Davies also spoke to senior commanders with the Republic of Singa-pore Air Force.

Pitch Black Task Unit Commander GP-CAPT Peter Davies said the visit coincided with the exercise’s second week, when missions grew in complexity.

“Exercise Pitch Black is a fantastic training experience because it enables people from different countries, who have very diverse equipment and skill sets, to share their knowledge and learn from each other,” he said.

GPCAPT Davies said the exercise allowed multiple air forces to practise complex scenarios together.

“Some participating countries brought in assets we don’t have and are not famil-iar with,” GPCAPT Davies said.

“The Republic of Singapore Air Force was able to deploy an I-Hawk anti-aircraft missile defence system into the exercise area, which has been a great learning op-portunity for us.”

Ties with practice partners

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies chats to members of the Republic of Singapore Air Force during his Pitch Black visit.

SGT Melissa Vivian, a loadmaster with 36SQN, shares stories with children on the tail ramp of a C-17A Globemaster during the Exercise Pitch Black open day.

A student from Ludmilla Primary School in Darwin shows off his jet fighter model during an Air Force visit as part of Exercise

Pitch Black’s community engagement activities.

Photos: CPL Casey Gaul

RCEAIR FAugust 25, 20168 Exercise Pitch Black

Don’t miss next edition for more Pitch Black coverage

DREAM PLACE TO FLY International cooperation

Pitch Black is the perfect arena for forging international partnerships, CPL Nicole Zurbrugg writes

THE outback expanse has given United States Marine Corps (USMC) personnel room to manoeuvre during

Exercise Pitch Black.A squadron of USMC F/A-

18Cs Hornets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122) deployed from their base in Iwakuni, Japan, to RAAF Base Tindal, flying alongside Air Force F/A-18A counterparts.

Although the Marines have flying experience from around the globe, VMFA-122 pilots such as MAJ Luke Borgan are still impressed by the Northern Territory.

“For an F-18 pilot, this is a dream place to fly,” MAJ Borgan said.

“The weather this time of year and the range space is unbeatable.

“We can’t do training like this in Japan, so we’re taking advantage of the opportunity to maximise train-ing.”

During the exercise, the Marine Hornets were either pitched against or working alongside Air Force Hornets and Super Hornets, as well as the Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15s and F-16s.

“All the countries come to Australia to train in order to demon-strate our presence and commitment in the Pacific region,” MAJ Borgan said.

“The US has such a large pres-ence in the world, it’s important to work together with our allies to breed familiarity and ease of future operations.”

VMFA-122’s Hornets took part in Pitch Black’s large-force offen-sive counter-air and defensive coun-ter-air support operations through-out the exercise.

Each nation involved in Pitch Black brought a unique capabil-ity, allowing others the chance to learn and understand the skills of all participating partners.

This prepares Pitch Black par-ticipants for real world situations, further strengthening the bonds of friendship.

CO VMFA-122 LTCOL Derek Brannon said the exercise was a culminating event for his squadron, with lasting effects on its combat readiness.

“It provided us with an oppor-tunity to develop and validate operational concepts for conduct-ing sustained contingency and com-bat operations around the world,” LTCOL Brannon said.

“The exercise allowed the Marines to gain a high level of train-ing readiness by taking advantage of the integrated, large force events with our regional joint and coalition partners.”

CPL Nicole Zurbrugg

FOR more than 70 years, the “Sumos” of the USMC have been a common sight throughout the Pacific region.

At Exercise Pitch Black, Marine Aerial Refueller Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) – affectionately known as the Sumos – brought two KC-130J Hercules to RAAF Base Tindal.

Formed in March 1942, the squadron’s primary roles have been transport and, since 1962, provides air-to-air refuelling using the Hercules.

This year, VMGR-152 returned to Australia for Pitch Black, soaring over the outback to refuel RAAF and USMC F/A-18 Hornets.

CAPT Colton Sizemore, a KC-130J pilot with VMGR-152, said it was important to support the Hornet missions.

“By providing fuel midair, we enable the pilots to continue training uninterrupted and extend the time spent in the air,” CAPT Sizemore said.

Classic ‘Sumos’ weigh in

“Not only does midair refuelling improve exercise training time and quality, but in combat conditions, aerial refuelling is an essential component of operation and the pilots need to be confident of their ability to complete the process.”

From a refuelling pod mounted on the Hercules’ wing, a pair of refuelling drogues were unreeled, to be intercepted by a Hornet’s refuelling probe.

As the Hornets approach, crew-masters watch from the Hercules’ open ramp and relay their posi-tions to the pilots.

“During refuelling, crewmasters

are the eyes for the pilots,” said USMC CPL Chris Lawler, crewmas-ter with VMGR-152.

“The pilots have very little vision of what is going on in the rear during an aerial refuelling.

“Crewmasters relay positions of the incoming jets relative to the refuelling hose and basket and monitor the whole refuelling process.”

The Hornet pilots make catch-ing the basket, maintaining parallel speeds and direction while refuel-ling look easy. However, it takes great skill and concentration.

USMC CAPT Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet

USMC CPL Chris Lawler, a crewmaster with Marine Aerial Refueller Transport Squadron 152, observes

an F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 approaching the refuelling hose

during Exercise Pitch Black. Photos: CPL Nicole Zurbrugg

Battle of Long Tan 50 years on – Pages 2, 12-15

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 15, August 25, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

BLACK DAWN

Exercise Pitch Black enters a new age – lift-out inside

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from 1SQN on the flightline at RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Photo: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

2 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FNews

DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

EditorLawrence Dutrieux: (02) 6266 7612

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

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

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RCEAIR F

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

South Sudan descends into crisis

PLTOFF Aaron Curran

VIETNAM Veterans’ Day was com-memorated in Canberra with a mov-ing ceremony at the Vietnam War Memorial on Anzac Parade on August 18 with hundreds of people in attendance.

It was more poignant this year as the day marked the 50th anni-versary of the battle of Long Tan in which 105 Australians and three New Zealanders from D Coy, 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (6 RAR), were faced with an enemy force of about 2000 sol-diers from the North Vietnamese Army and the Viet Cong.

Seventeen Australians died during the battle and one later of wounds – Australia’s greatest loss in any sin-gle engagement in the Vietnam War. Twenty-four were wounded. The opposing Vietnamese losses were counted in the hundreds, with many more casualties.

The Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove (retd) spoke passionately at the ceremony of the alienation Vietnam veterans felt and the way in which segments of the Australian public treated them.

“Not many veterans in wars before or since Vietnam were some-times booed or even reviled by their own countrymen and women,” he said.

“They were unloved and fragile. Many felt alienated by the commu-nity from which they came and even from the government and ex-service associations. The anti-war movement unintentionally marginalised and stigmatised their fellow Australians.”

The Governor-General said it was the welcome home parades on October 17, 1987, when the Australian community started to put things right.

“Vietnam veterans are now the senior citizens of the wider veterans’ community,” he said.

“We are about as old as the WWI veterans were when we served in Vietnam. Veterans should always welcome and embrace other veter-ans with respect – it’s part of our military ethos. I extend to all those Vietnam veterans, living and passed, the gratitude and reverence for their service in the finest traditions of their forebears.”

CDF ACM Mark Binskin spoke of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers’ courage in the face of sig-nificant adversity. “The Battle of Long Tan remains one of Australia’s greatest defensive victories,” he said.

“Isolated and outnumbered 20-to-one, D Coy took on the Viet Cong and, in an extraordinary feat of cour-age and determination, they held off the advancing enemy for several hours until reinforcements arrived.

“We honour those who fought the battle and we remember the 521 Australians killed and the thousands who were wounded in the Vietnam War.”

ACM Binskin said they recog-nise the 60,000 Australians who served during the conflict, whether they fought in other significant bat-tles like Coral-Balmoral, Binh Ba or Operation Bribie or served with the RAN as clearance divers or on the gunline providing fire support to ground forces.

“We acknowledge all those who served, particularly those who con-tinue to suffer from the effects of their military service today,” ACM Binskin said.

Clear skies over Canberra not only contributed to a memorable service, it also allowed a few vet-erans of the war to take to the air. Two DC-3s, two DHC-4 Caribous, an 02 Cessna, the ubiquitous UH-1 Iroquois, a Sioux and two US B-52s conducted a flypast supplying a visu-al link to the war that ended 41 years ago.

Canberra resident Ray Thomas served with No. 9 Squadron as an airframe fitter in Vietnam from 1967-68 and had his eyes glued to the sky at the sight of the B-52s.

“The last time I saw a B-52 was when one dropped bombs and tear gas in the Long Hai hills,” Mr Thomas said.

“Sometimes the wind would change and it would blow back to us at Nui Dat.”

Mr Thomas, sadly, had never attended a Long Tan Day commemo-ration until this year.

“I felt that I was not part of Long Tan as I was in the second 9SQN group,” he said.

“It was absolutely fabulous and I believe there won’t be another one like this. It was wonderful with lots of camaraderie among the 9SQN blokes.”

More Long Tan articles on pages 12-15

Australia commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan

Left: Defence Minister Marise Payne and Veterans’ Affairs Minister Dan Tehan lay wreaths during the commemorative service at the Vietnam Memorial on Anzac Parade, Canberra. Right: US B-52s turned many heads during the ceremony. Photos: Lauren Larking/POIS Phil Cullinan

‘Fabulous’ tribute

Canberra resident Ray Thomas served with 9SQN in Vietnam from 1967-68. Photo: PLTOFF Aaron Curran

See footage at: http://video.defence.gov.au/play/4818#

Battle of Long Tan 50 years on – Pages 2, 12-15

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 15, August 25, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

BLACK DAWN

Exercise Pitch Black enters a new age – lift-out inside

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from 1SQN on the flightline at RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black 2016. Photo: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

LTCOL Nick Faughey

SOUTH Sudan, which five years ago became the world’s newest nation, is on the brink of a new civil war.

Violence erupted over the Independence Day weekend in the capital Juba and across the country last month, forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes as the one-year-old peace agreement appeared to end.

Since 2011, the ADF has provid-ed a contingent to Operation Aslan of up to 25 personnel to support the UN’s Mission in South Sudan.

The majority are employed in Juba as staff officers or in national support roles, with another small team working out of the remote UN outpost in the north of the country near the township of Bor.

On July 8, South Sudan’s politi-cal leadership gathered at the Presidential Palace to jointly address the nation to call for calm from all factions, as the country marked the anniversary of its independence from Sudan.

Instead Juba went into crisis. Government forces supported by small arms, T-54/55 tanks, mortars, artillery and MI-24 attack helicopters directed offensive operations against the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In-Opposition force.

Civilian camps, already accom-modating more than 20,000 inter-nally displaced people, were attacked and UN troops were caught in the cross-fire as civilians sought sanctu-ary within the UN bases.

Deputy Commander Australian

Contingent Lt-Col Les Robinson said while the fighting was intense, sometimes only a couple of hundred metres from Australian personnel, all members remained calm and focused on their responsibilities.

“That old adage of ‘trust your training’ was proven time and again,” he said. “Operation Aslan has well-rehearsed plans and procedures that were proven to work effectively when it counted.”

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance reported that an estimated 40,000 additional civilians across Juba moved to the UN bases for safety and security.

Australian Contingent RSM WO1 Peter Kirkman said many people sought refuge in makeshift locations such as schools and churches.

“The battle along the perimeter of the UN compounds resulted in small arms, RPG and mortar fire inside the wire significantly damaging UN facilities and vehicles,” he said.

“The real costs, though, were the fatalities – the death of many civil-ians, three UN personnel and the wounding of others, proving there is no safe haven in this civil war.”

With the announcement of a ceasefire, Juba remains tense but has slowly returned to normal. Fighting between the two parties is concen-trated in the regional areas.

The UN continues to negoti-ate a long-term peace agreement, but many sense this may be a long time coming – this chapter in South Sudan’s history is yet to be complet-ed.

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3August 25, 2016RCEAIR F News

A specially-fitted camera captures the exact moment Air Force pilot FLTLT Todd “Woody” Woodford, VAQ-135, fires a high-tech missile in an EA-18G aircraft during a live fire portion of the US Navy’s graduate Electronic Warfare Tactics course, HAVOC. He is the first RAAF pilot to launch an AGM-88 high-speed anti-

radiation missile. FLTLT Woodford is one of six Air Force aircrew serving in the Personnel Exchange Program billets in the US Navy Expeditionary EA-18G squadrons. Australia is the first international partner to complete the HAVOC course.

TOP SHOT

THE Government will review suicide and self-harm prevention services available to veterans and Defence personnel, following an announcement by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on August 11.

The National Mental Health Commission, clinical experts, and current and former Defence person-nel will analyse the effectiveness of existing services.

“We best honour the Diggers of 1916 by caring for and supporting the veterans and their families of 2016,” the Prime Minister said.

“We best honour the sacri-fice and service of generations of Anzacs past by supporting the vet-erans of today and, of course, the servicemen and women in the ADF today.”

Mr Turnbull said one of the main challenges was about 80 per cent of veterans had no contact with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

“We will change that. It’s impor-tant that DVA is in touch with all veterans,” he said.

“They may have no need of DVA services in particular but it is important that we continue to support those veterans and be con-nected to those veterans throughout their lives.”

The Pr ime Minis te r a l so announced the establishment of

a suicide prevention trial site in Townsville, which will focus on ADF members and ex-service per-sonnel.

North Queensland Primary Health Network will run the ser-vice and will be one of 12 front-line trials in the fight against suicide, understanding the challenges and developing best-practice services.

The government also plans to bring together company lead-ers, along with the heads of the federal and state public services, in November to look at increasing employment opportunities for ex-servicemen and women.

“Depending on the range of work you’ve done in the ADF, you may not be able to complete your resume,” the Prime Minister said.

“A lot of your work may be highly classified – you’re not in a position to describe it.

“Sometimes civilian employers fail to appreciate the extraordinary leadership experience that is gained by serving in the ADF.

“The best thing we can deliver to ex-servicemen and women is a good, successful transition to civil-ian life, which means good, suc-cessful, satisfying employment.”

The review of suicide and self-harm prevention services will pro-vide an interim report in December and a full report next February.

The review will consider:• The range of services available

to current and former members and their families.

• Effectiveness of these services in supporting members and their families while they serve, as they transition from Defence to civilian life and later in civil-ian life.

• Duplication or gaps in services.• Barriers to current and former

serving members accessing services, considering cultural relevance, availability of provid-ers, employment, functional capacity and degree of ill health.

• The extent to which former serving members utilise ser-vices provided by other parts of government, ex-service organi-sations, the private sector or non-government organisations.

• If there is balance in the way the military experience is under-stood by and communicated to the Australian community.

• Reporting of and incidence of suicide among serving and former serving members compared to the broader com-munity.

Mental health under review

POINTS OF FOCUS

Spotlight on services for current and former members

Former CAF’s new roleFORMER CAF AIRMSHL (retd) Geoff Brown will bring 30 years of experience in the Air Force to his new position on the board of Lockheed Martin Australia, which works with local partners to deliver engineering systems in the aeronaut-ics, maritime, surveillance and defence domains.

An engineer and a pilot, Mr Brown is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He was CAF from July 2011 to July 2015 and was appoint-ed an Officer of the Order of Australia on Australia Day 2012.

Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand chief executive Raydon Gates said Geoff Brown was “known for his comprehensive understanding of the complexities and challenges facing not only the RAAF but the ADF as it moves into the world of fifth-generation capabili-

IN BRIEFties. We are delighted he will bring that experience and perspective to the Lockheed Martin Australia Board.”

Make the connectionPERSONNEL in DHA properties who are offered the chance to take up the National Broadband Network (NBN) service are encouraged to do so.

Approval is not required from DHA to have existing internet and phone services replaced with the NBN if and when it becomes available in areas that have DHA properties.

For personnel who opt for the NBN, the installation should be done by an accredited NBN technician (inside and outside the premises) in accordance with the compliance standards.

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4 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FNews

PLTOFF Aaron Curran

ADF personnel were treated to Defence Science and Technology’s (DST) lat-est innovations at Russell Offices in Canberra on August 15.

Marking National Science Week, six DST scientists each delivered a one-minute presentation on technologies in development.

Chief Defence Scientis t Alex Zelinsky said the technologies were on the cusp of commercialisation.

“The ADF has a very strong tradi-tion of embracing science and leveraging technology for Defence capability,” he said.

“It was only fitting that Defence per-sonnel and scientists came together dur-ing that week to acknowledge the con-tribution of science to the security of our nation.

“The showcase was an opportunity for us to share the highlights of those technologies we have been developing recently in support of the ADF.”

The presenters were Ken Smit, David Watts, Tania Holmes, Beau Krieg, Matthew McKinna, Chris Madden and keynote speaker Mark Patterson.

The new technologies they covered were PyroFilm, situational awareness

knowledge infrastructure, superfast 3D tracking, structural integrity of ADF helicopters, advanced tactical booster technologies and the systematic event evaluation kit.

Dr Patterson spoke at length about how DST maintains fighting capability in the heat.

The study has been going on for nearly a decade and was prompted by the death of TPR Angus Lawrence, who died of heat stroke at Mt Bundy in 2004.

After the death of TPR Lawrence, the ADF reviewed the policy and guidance of working in hot conditions.

Dr Patterson gave examples of how heat stroke can affect capability, includ-ing one notable incident in the US.

“One soldier went down with heat stroke and it took the rest of his section to get him to care,” he said.

“In doing so, others ended up going down with heat stroke. The commander realised he had lost an entire section in a short amount of time and had to pause the activity.”

Dr Patterson said the ADF had worked with industry to come up with a hand-held device that measures tempera-ture, humidity and light and can enable commanders to see how each soldier is doing in real time.

Successful science on show

Dr Ken Smit talks about PyroFilm during National Science Week.

Photo: PLTOFF Aaron Curran

New technologies on the commercial cusp

SQNLDR Bruce Chalmers

THE saying “from little things big things grow” was never so true as when applied to Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East, where tazos are turning into quilts.

Logistics members LACW Kerry Paszyn and SGT Phil Spencer were so appreciative of the quilts they received from Aussie Hero volun-teers back home that they decided to find an innovative way of raising funds for equipment for the quilters to use in their work.

They hit on the idea of collecting tazos for the quilters, who have been making quilts and laundry bags for deployed personnel since 2012, and have now raised more than $1000.

Tazos are coloured cardboard tokens used instead of coins by the Base Exchange, where most members on military bases do their shopping.

“Most people find tazos to be a bit of a nuisance in their pockets and I thought that asking them to donate them to the quilters for a new embroidery machine would be a good way to use the tazos,” LACW Paszyn said.

Members have also been donat-

ing notes and are holding a trivia night to raise more money.

“The thought that someone thinks about us and makes some-thing for us, with a single person in mind – someone they don’t know – really inspires me,” LACW Paszyn said.

“When you send across your details to the ladies and back comes a quilt that just so accurately reflects your life and little things about your children is amazing.”

SGT Spencer also said it was fantastic that at the end of a hard week “you receive a parcel with this amazing quilt, and it’s everything you want it to be, and you know that someone somewhere has put in a lot of time and effort for someone they don’t know”.

Members fill out a request with personal information to help the quilters craft a personalised quilt or laundry bag.

Emails and letters are also exchanged to help the quilters understand each member.

“They are making the time to make our lives easier. And each quilt and bag has some real meaning behind it,” SGT Spencer said.

“Each quilt and laundry bag is unique and the emails between the ladies and the members have built wonderful relationships.

“One member’s bag was actually made by a woman who lives in the next town in South Australia and she made a quilt with his favourite football team featured on it.”

He said the money raised so far was “$1000 they didn’t have, and now they do have, which makes a difference, and that’s why we are doing this”.

SGT Spencer said the members would ensure the tazo collection project continued on the base for each new deployment.

The logistics team will send the first donation to the Aussie Hero quilters on July 31, following their first trivia night fundraiser.

Doorknocking at accommoda-tion tents and tazo collecting will continue while the discs are issued as change at the Base Exchange.

“We are really grateful for sup-port for this project from members past, present, and we thank them sincerely for their generosity,” LACW Paszyn said.

More than a token gesture as tazos add up for quilters

LAC Kerry Paszyn and SGT Phil Spencer count tazos donated by deployed personnel at Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

MINISTER for Defence Marise Payne visited ADF personnel in Afghanistan during her trip to Kabul in early August.

Senator Payne visited the Afghan National Army Officer Academy, where she was briefed by the academy chief mentor the British Army’s BRIG Ian Rigden, and Australia’s senior national representative at the academy, LTCOL Stephen Jenkins.

The Minister then lunched with ADF personnel at Camp Qargha.

During her visit to Kabul, Senator Payne met the Islamic

Republic of Afghanistan’s President, Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, and Minister of Defence LTGEN Abdullah Khan Habibi.

She also addressed embedded ADF members and representa-tives from the Australian Embassy at the NATO-led Resolute Support mission headquarters during an afternoon tea in Destille Gardens.

Senator Payne praised the work of all ADF members deployed to Afghanistan, and the contribution to the Resolute Support mission.

Minister drops in

Senator Marise Payne with Air Task Group personnel at the main air operating base in the Middle East. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

SQNLDR Bruce Chalmers

CHAPLAINCY in the ADF plays an integral part in operations contributing to the general wellbeing of members.

It is no different in the Middle East Region (MER), where, for the first time, three women are in that role simultaneously.

Chaplains SQNLDRs Robyn Kidd and Christine Senini and LTCOL Sarah Gibson met recently at the Air Task Group’s main operating base in the Middle East to confer and to fare-well SQNLDR Kidd as she returned to Australia from her most recent deploy-ment.

“As women in the chaplaincy we bring a different view through diver-sity in leadership and pastoral conver-sations,” SQNLDR Senini said.

“When people see that women are in leadership roles and their opinions are respected, they see an opportunity for themselves to develop into all they can be, with something valuable to offer.”

Chaplains help members main-tain a sound mind, a healthy body and

healthy spirit, ensuring they are assets to themselves, their families and the ADF.

“We have a broad role that includes supporting people doing the challeng-ing and difficult roles they undertake in theatre,” SQNLDR Senini said.

“We are helping people to be the best they can be and giving them sup-port in a new and different environ-ment away from their normal routines.

“We provide an opportunity for members to maintain focus, build rela-tionships and enjoy rewards they gain from being here.

“Part of our role is also to help deployed members understand the culture and history about the region. This helps them understand what they are doing here and, when it is time to return home, helps them transition to their Australian lives, having grown as individuals.”

Chaplaincy in the MER extends across a large area and includes the operating bases in the Middle East, detachments in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Combined Air and Space Operations Centre.

Wisdom comes in threes

Chaplains (from left) SQNLDR Robyn Kidd, LTCOL Sarah Gibson and SQNLDR Christine Senini together in the Middle East.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

Chaplains cross paths in the Middle East

CHAPLAIN SQNLDR Mark Kleemann is rarely short of a word, but a surprise commendation left him speechless.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies presented CHAP Kleemann with the CAF Commendation during his visit to RAAF Base Tindal on August 10, leaving him “seriously stuck for words”.

He found them eventually, though, saying the commendation was “very humbling”.

“I appreciate immensely what this means. Importantly, I understand what

chaplaincy is for bases, and it’s been my absolutely pleasure and privilege to be one of two chaplains always on the ground here,” CHAP Kleemann said.

“This is going to be a very hard base for me to leave because of the friendships and what this base is in terms of community.”

AIRMSHL Davies congratulated CHAP Kleemann on developing a wel-fare support plan for military and fam-ily communities at Tindal, which “has been universally acknowledged for its proactive approach and providing early intervention”.

“Your approach has helped allevi-ate family impacts and reduce stress levels, and is widely appreciated,” he said.

“Of particular note is your involve-ment with the Kintore Special Needs School, which provides care and education to 35 indigenous students between the ages of four and 18.

“As human beings, we some-times need some spiritual guidance. Sometimes we can help ourselves but sometimes we might need the base chaplain when we don’t know.”

WHILE visiting RAAF Base Tindal, CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies thanked personnel for their efforts, especially in their critical role in Exercise Pitch Black.

ACW Matilda Paris-d’Arbela, a personnel capability specialist on the Gap Year program, was one of the Tindal-based members who spoke with the CAF.

Originally from Canberra and in her first year in the Air Force, she said it was a morale boost.

“It was lovely to hear from the Chief and see that he cares about what everyone is doing,” she said.

“Joining the military was not something I’d considered until I came here and saw what it was like. I’d always wanted to do a gap year but I didn’t know what to do, and this opportunity fitted per-fectly for me. I love working with great people every day.

“I still have a spot at Physi-otherapy at the University of

Canberra for next year, but now I’ll hopefully apply for sponsorship to study through Defence.”

AIRMSHL Davies said Tindal’s part in Pitch Black had been an

“outstanding success” and thanked personnel for their contribution to “all of the sustainment, messing, accommodation, admin and the logistics that go with all of that”.

Surprised beyond words

A MORALE BOOST FROM THE BOSS

AIRMSHL Leo Davies talks to 75SQN members and ACW Matilda Paris-d’Arbela, left, at Tindal. Photos: SGT Andrew Eddie

AIRMSHL Leo Davies presents CHAP Mark

Kleemann with a CAF Commendation at

RAAF Base Tindal.

5August 25, 2016RCEAIR F News

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FLTLT Stephanie Anderson

SPENDING a few weeks in Tonga sounds ideal during the Australian winter, but for FLTLT David Pennisi and FLGOFF Chloe Lowndes, being deployed on Exercise Tropic Twilight is not just an escape from the chill.

FLTLT Penn i s i and FLGOFF Lowndes, both environmental health offic-ers (ENVHOs), were selected to deploy on the exercise to support the deployed force and local environmental health con-cerns.

Tropic Twilight is an annual NZDF-led exercise focusing on humanitarian assis-tance and disaster relief (HADR) in the South Pacific.

The multi-national cooperative effort was held from June 29 to July 29 and began in New Zealand before the contin-gent headed to Tonga.

The exercise was to assist with HADR planning for disasters in the Pacific Islands, which Australia regularly pro-vided, FLGOFF Lowndes said.

“NZ has invited Australia to par-ticipate in this exercise, which enables Australia and NZ to look at what each country provides to the HADR process and where we cross over,” she said.

“This is a good opportunity for ENVHOs, and something that I’m per-sonally interested in. I deployed on Op Pacific Assist 2015 in Vanuatu and I’m currently completing a Masters in Disaster

Preparedness and Reconstruction, so Exercise Tropic Twilight was a great opportunity to expand on that knowledge and get practical experience.”

FLTLT Penn i s i and FLGOFF Lowndes, along with other deployed ENVHOs, primarily conducted surveil-

lance, control activities and fogging of mosquitoes in response to the Zika virus in Tonga. Additionally, they ensured per-sonal hygiene, food and water safety, developed improvised waste management infrastructure and conducted health and safety inspections.

6 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FNews

Healthy unity with NZAir Force plays its part in the NZDF’s multi-national exercise in the South Pacific

Above: FLGOFF Chloe Lowndes, left, with SPC Hustin Trusso, US, SPR Jared Hum-phries, NZ, and Cadet Lui Jian Bang, China. Photo: CPL Brad HansonInset: FLTLT David Pennisi checks Tonga’s environment.

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7August 25, 2016RCEAIR F News

Leigh Watson

FOR most Australians, federal elec-tion day is an opportunity to have their democratic say and enjoy a sausage sizzle at their local polling place.

For the Air Mobili ty Group (AMG), election day is the culmina-tion of weeks of high-tempo team-work.

During an election period, the special purpose aircraft (SPA) fleet is kept busy as it plays a vital part in transporting the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition around Australia on their election hustings.

On his first election campaign duties, No. 34 Squadron XO SQNLDR Matt Noblet was impressed by the teamwork and the dedication of per-sonnel.

“It’s great to see the team focus –

there’s a huge team effort to support the tempo,” he said.

“From the Hercules supporting the travelling media crew through to the King Air to pre-position crews else-where, to other squadron members, and support, engineers and security forces – everyone did an amazing job. I’m very proud.

“There was a really sound plan and it was great to see all the agencies coming together to execute the plan.

SQNLDR Noblet said some of 34SQN’s aircrews were away for six of the eight weeks of the election cam-paign.

“The actual flying sectors were not that long, but there was a lot of time away from home and short-notice changes,” he said.

“Our primary customers are very busy people, and the best outcome is

that the transport is seamless for them. We really are an enabler for govern-ment.”

CL-604 Challenger pilot SQNLDR Sarah-Jane Leech, who was also on her first election campaign, said the aircrews needed the team to make their jobs possible.

“We couldn’t have done it without the support of admin, log and ops. It wouldn’t have been a successful opera-tion without everyone working togeth-er,” she said.

WOFF Taryn “Taz” Haskard has just completed her third election cam-paign, and agreed that teamwork was the critical enabler.

“It’s the team and the people that make it. It’s the teamwork that makes it phenomenal,” she said.

C O o f 3 4 S Q N W G C D R Angus Porter assumed command

mid-election and was impressed by how well the team worked together.

“I was struck by how dedicated and professional the team was. The pace was busy but they know how to oper-ate at that level,” he said.

“We had the right people, in the right place, at the right time – every-one did what needed to be done.”

WGCDR Porter said six agencies at Fairbairn contributed directly to the SPA capability – 34SQN, 1SECFOR, SPAMU (SPA Management Unit), IDS (Integrated Defence Services), Qantas and VIP Operations.

“During the election we added No. 38 Squadron, who significantly enhanced the air mobility capability with four of their King Airs,” he said.

“This really was a combined effort from our permanent staff, reservists who helped us surge for the election,

APS staff and contracted support. We all worked together for the same goal.

“The role we have here is a privi-lege. It’s a great responsibility. I’m very proud of the efforts of the entire Fairbairn team.”

But the work isn’t over yet. The AMG team is still busy compiling invoices for passengers and prepar-ing their schedules of special purpose flights, which are tabled in Parliament.

However, the team took a brief time out for thank-you visits from AMG Commander AIRCDRE Richard Lennon, ACAUST AVM Gavin Turnbull and CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies.

While he was there, the CAF presented SGT Tim Taylor with his Defence Long Service Medal and OFFCDT Scott Henry with his Commissioning Certificate.

PERSONNEL from No. 34 Squadron did not waste the opportunity to talk to the CAF when AIRMSHL Leo Davies dropped in to thank them for their work in support of the federal election campaign.

They were interested in issues rang-ing from postings, serving unaccom-panied and the gap year program to current operations and Plan Jericho.

When asked how 34SQN fits with Plan Jericho, the CAF reminded personnel that those closest know their business best.

“Jericho has a lot of traction – have a go and see if it works. If we can save one day per month, that should flow back to the unit in education, or maintenance for another aircraft. That’s Jericho,” he said.

“Jericho has three parts – connect-ing the bits we currently have, giving everyone an equal voice to change for the things we need to do, and better acquisition and sustainment.

“Everyone has a part to play. We’ve been trying to make things better indi-vidually for some time but we’ve never had a label before.

“Now, if you say ‘we should try this’, if it’s not going to hurt anyone, and it’s not against the law, why can’t you give it a go?”

Teamwork and dedication kept the key candidates on the move during the

federal election campaign

VOTES OF THANKS

Giving it a go for Jericho

Main photo: The BBJ, part of the Air Force’s special purpose aircraft fleet, lands in Canberra at the end of the federal

election campaign.Inset: CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies thanks 34SQN personnel.

Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

‘If it’s not going to hurt anyone, and it’s not against the law, why can’t you give it a go?

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies

ACAUST AVM Gavin Turnbull has pre-sented Defence commendations to three Headquarters Air Command (HQAC) members.

SQNLDR Steve O’Hara received an ACAUST Silver Commendation for his outstanding contribution to the success of Single Service, Joint and Combined Training activities over the past four years.

FLTLT Cain Taylor received a CAF Gold Commendation for his supe-rior performance as the Junior Officer Aircrew Manager within Headquarters Air Mobility Group (AMG).

His planning in developing and managing the AMG’s junior pilot work-force resulted in the maintenance of operational effectiveness during a period of frequent changes to aircrew require-ments.

His dedication and professionalism

were key to delivering flawless aircrew personnel management. His thorough assessment of the aircrew requirements for the introduction of the C-27J air-craft, KC-30A multi-role tanker trans-port, and the two new C-17A aircraft ensured the continued capability for AMG, Air Force and the ADF.

PLTOFF Scott Samson (then an OFFCDT) received a Bronze Commendation for the outstanding administrative support he provided to the A1 Staff Officer Honours and Awards, and for his review and amend-ment of the 92 Wing Defence Security Assessed Position List.

PLTOFF Samson was employed within HQAC from 2014 to 2016 while waiting for his PV Security Clearance.

He is now undergoing Air Intelligence training at Canungra, Qld.

ACAUST AVM Gavin Turnbull presents PLTOFF Scott Samson (then OFFCDT) with an ACAUST Bronze Commendation.

8 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FNews

FLGOFF Georgina MacDonald

A TRAINING session with Air Force PTIs at RAAF Base Edinburgh gave a group of young Aboriginal football-ers from rural South Australia a taste of Defence lifestyle and the benefits it offers sportspeople.

The players, from the Maralinga and APY Lands football teams, were also exposed to other aspects of life on the base, as they prepared for the Don McSweeny Aboriginal Lands Cup, played as the curtain raiser to the Adelaide versus Collingwood AFL game on July 16.

The South Australian National Football League scheduled a week of personal development and cultural activ-ities for the two teams as part of the Don McSweeny Aboriginal Lands Cup program.

The teams’ visit to Edinburgh includ-ed a day of activities and a fast-paced training session with an Air Force PTI.

The captain of APY Thunder Nathaniel Miller said it had been his first visit to a RAAF base.

We were able to see the planes and the hangar, and we did a shoot at the weapons simulator,” he said.

“It’s been good to understand the

ADF, to know that our country is pro-tected.”

SGT Brett Harris, a PTI at No. 24 Squadron, facilitated the footballers’ training session on base.

“The purpose of the visit was to explain how health and wellbeing ties into the Defence lifestyle and the train-ing and benefits that you get essentially for free through Defence,” he said.

“The players that came up are all outstanding members of their communi-ties who have been given this opportu-nity in recognition of their efforts, and to see what Defence is like.”

Air Force donated a few new Sherrin footballs to the teams and these were warmly received.

Defence is a sponsor of the Don McSweeny program and sees it as an opportunity for engagement with indige-nous communities and the diverse range of other sponsors and participants.

CPL Matthew Butcher, Defence Force Recruiting, said this was Air Force’s fourth year of involvement with the program.

“We are looking to follow up on this visit at a later stage by going out with the South Australian National Football League teams into the communities to build a lasting relationship,” he said.

Recognition of superior efforts

Footballs in flight

Above: FLTLT Ben Liersch shows Maralinga Land players Steven Benbolt and Trevor Peel the cockpit of the PC-9/A aircraft at RAAF Base Edinburgh.Left: LAC Matthew Gladman with APY Lands players Cyron, Aisley and Adrian.Photos: SGT Murray Staff

9August 25, 2016RCEAIR F News

CPL Nicci Freeman

CPL Kristopher Johnson planned to surprise his daughter when he arrived home a little early on deployment leave from the Middle East.

Instead, he received the sur-prise when his youngest daughter, Mickeelie, presented him with a quilt on behalf of the chil-dren of Brassall State School in Queensland.

“I had planned my leave to marry up with the start of the school holidays so I could spend some quality time at home with the kids,” said CPL Johnson, a senior refuel-ling operator with Combat Support Unit 15.

“There was a slight change in the flight schedule, which meant that I arrived home about half an hour ear-lier than planned and Mickeelie was still at school.

“I took advantage of the oppor-tunity and hid at the back of the house so that I could surprise her when she walked in.

“The surprise, however, was on me. Mickeelie was so excited to see me that she couldn’t help herself and she gave me the quilt straight away.

“It was originally going to be posted over, but it was decided that Mickeelie would pass the quilt on to me herself.

“Apparently I was supposed to get it on my last day, before I

returned to the Middle East, but Mickeelie was just too excited.”

CPL Johnson said he loved the quilt.

“I am the only currently deployed parent with a child at Brassall State School,” he said.

“The Defence school transition aide decided to do this as a thank you for the job that I am doing, and decided to get all the children of Defence Force personnel – from all different grades – together to help make the quilt. It is an absolutely fantastic gesture.

“The kids, including Mickeelie, have written some lovely messages and I thought it only fitting to bring it back into my deployed location with me.”

OFFCDT Oliver Jiang

THE Airborne Systems Development Flight (ASDFLT) from Air Mobility Training and Development Uni t (AMTDU) is now Test and Evaluation Flight – Richmond and part of the Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU).

The change became official during a handover ceremony at RAAF Base Richmond on June 30.

The transfer, a result of collaborative efforts between Air Mobility Group and the Air Warfare Centre, was achieved ahead of schedule under the Air Warfare Centre implementation plan.

CO ARDU WGCDR Daniel Rich said the handover was an example of the wider change in the way the Air Force conducts flight tests and evaluation.

“Previously ARDU focused on devel-opment and test, with the force element groups responsible for operational test.

Under the Air Warfare Centre, ARDU is responsible for end-to-end integrated test solutions. This construct allows Air Command to release more capability faster,” he said.

“There was a real desire from both Air Mobility Group and the Air Warfare Centre to see this transfer take place, which is why we were able to enact it ahead of schedule.

“This change is not just the transfer of ASDFLT to ARDU. Over the coming months, part of the ARDU workforce will move to Richmond, increasing the test and evaluation resources supporting new platforms such as the C-27J Spartan that are now entering active service.”

ARDU is part of the Test and Evaluation Directorate in the Air Warfare Centre. The unit recently conducted suc-cessful air-to-air refuelling trials between a KC-30A multi-role tanker transport and a C-17A Globemaster.

Ahead of schedule

Members of the AMTDU and ARDU gather for the handover ceremony at RAAF Base Richmond. Photo: SGT Marshall Ryan

Away from home but wrapped in its warmth

Timely transfer to test and evaluation role

AS LEGACY Week kicks off this year spare a thought and some change for the families of the 100,000 men and women who have died in conflicts around the world.

From August 28 to September 3, Australians will have the chance to show their support for these families by buying a badge.

The pledge made by the original Anzacs to care for the “missus and kids” of the comrades who gave their life or their health for their country has been the driving force for the organisation for 93 years.

Legacy Australia chairman Tony Ralph said it didn’t matter if you were 100 or in your 20s, the organi-sation’s role in the community was as real now as it had ever been.

“An organisation rich in history, Legacy does its best to meet the

changing needs of our families in this modern era and, with the support of generous Australians, Legacy can continue its good work,” he said.

“And, as part of that evolving support, 2016 saw Legacy embark on its single largest initiative in its history when 75 junior Legatees travelled to the Western Front to participate in the centenary com-memorations of Pozieres.

“Having lost a close family member themselves, they know firsthand what it means for Legacy to ‘keep the promise’ – a promise made a century ago in the trenches of Pozieres.”

Mr Ralph encouraged all Aus-tralians to buy a badge and wear it with pride this Legacy Week.

“You will play an important

role in supporting the families of Defence personnel,” he said.

“Whether on deployment, peace-keeping, peace enforcing or disaster relief, the bottom line is when a sol-dier goes to work, there is always a real risk they may not return, and if they do, it may not be in the same state as when they left.”

Legacy relies on dedicated volunteers, affectionately named Legatees, many of whom are returned servicemen and women, to carry out its work.

Legacy merchandise, including badges, pens and the Legacy bears will be available across the country during Legacy Week.

To donate or volunteer visit www.legacy.com.au or call 1800 534 229.

Help Legacy to keep the promise

CPL Kristopher Johnson with his quilt at Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

When you join Defence Health, it’s our job to take care of you like part of the family. And we love our job.We understand the lifestyle of serving members, which is why we offer tailored health cover with higherbenefits exclusively for ADF and Reservist families. Our ADF Total Package includes higher benefits ondental, speech therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, antenatal and postnatal services and more.

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

OUR ONLYMISSIONIS TO LOOKAFTER YOU.

THE Directorate General Technical Airworthiness – ADF and the Defence Science and Technology Group have combined forces to deliver a unique service to improve safety and signif-icantly reduce maintenance costs to Defence aircraft.

The ADF Wear Debris Analysis (WDA) Laboratory has opened its doors to offer a free service to analyse wear particles from ADF air assets.

This is not oil analysis, which looks at the longer-term trend of very small particles, but analysis of metal-lic particles to assess aircraft service-ability.

Analysing wear particles from gas turbines or gearboxes significantly improves the availability and safety of aircraft without incurring the cost of removing the whole part.

Defence scientist Andrew Becker said when machinery started to fail it shed tiny particles into the lubricant.

“We use a method called ‘wear debris analysis’ to determine the size, quantity, features and composition of these particles,” he said.

“The composition of metallic debris can help us distinguish between benign or significant fatigue par-ticles, which tells us if a part needs maintenance without having to remove the actual part.

“If the part doesn’t require mainte-nance then you’ve saved on time and costs, and if the part critically needs maintenance or replacement then you can avoid catastrophic failure of expensive or critical equipment.”

While alloy steels, aluminium alloys, magnesium alloys and stainless steels may look the same to the naked eye, their presence means different things. A recent example of this was an analysis of debris captured from an Air Force fast jet engine lubrication screen.

In this case the debris was deter-mined to be a benign aluminium alloy and after consulting with the engine field service representative the engine was allowed to remain in service, which resulted in significant savings. However, in another example, a heli-copter main rotor gearbox generated

Wheels in motionHow wear debris analysis is keeping our aircraft flying more efficiently

debris, which was captured on a chip detector immediately before embarka-tion to a ship.

The debris was analysed as bear-ing steel with features consistent with rolling contact fatigue – a common failure mode of gears and bearings.

The gearbox was subsequently replaced having had a recent history of generating the same type of debris.

The ADF WDA Laboratory, locat-ed at DST Group’s Fishermans Bend facility in Melbourne, uses a unique staffing model that allows suitably trained DGTA-ADF staff and DST Group experts to come together as required to conduct debris analysis.

THE ADF WDA Laboratory ser-vice is free (excluding postage) for ADF aviation assets. Howev-er, people wanting to access the service should check the relevant contractual arrangements to prevent Defence providing a ser-vice for which it is already being charged.

There is no change to the pro-cess of testing oil samples. The ADF WDA Laboratory was established specifically to help determine aircraft serviceability and augments any extant oil

analysis programs. To access this service webform AE639 must be filled out.

Three priorities are listed on the form with the highest priority requiring a brief justification. The physical samples are then sent via courier or express post to: ADF Wear Debris Analysis Lab,c/- DST Store, 506 Lorimer Street, Fishermans Bend, Victoria, 3207.

For more information, email ADF.WDA@defence.gov.au

A damaged gear bearing from a helicopter gearbox.

WDA IS READY TO ASSIST

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12 13RCEAIR FLong Tan August 25, 2016

A combination of skilful flying and tenacity resulted in Air Force’s brief but crucial involvement in the Battle of Long Tan

RIGHT ON THE SPOT

A2-1020 and other 9SQN Iroquois helicopters prepare for a troop

support mission, probably after the Battle of Long Tan.

FLTLT Bruce Lane at the controls of an Iroquois on the day

after the Long Tan sorties.Photos: courtesy AWM

THE Air Force’s contribution to the Battle of Long Tan, possibly the most well-known action fought by the Australian Task

Force (ATF) during the Vietnam War, was small but nevertheless significant.

Besides demonstrating the profes-sionalism of the Australian Army troops and their steadfast courage under fire, the battle marked the transition of the Air Force’s helicopter force from immerging capability into a versatile battlefield component.

It has been 50 years since the battle was fought in the Long Tan rubber plan-tation on August 18, 1966.

The Australian forces consisted of 105 personnel of D Coy, 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (D Coy, 6RAR) under the command of MAJ Harry Smith.

Accompanied by three forward observers (FOs) from New Zealand’s 161st Field Artillery, D Coy was con-fronted by a Viet Cong (VC) force of up to 2500 irregular and main force troops as it was conducting a search of the plantation. In a battle lasting several hours, D Coy resisted attack after attack until reinforced by fellow members of the ATF.

The victory, against huge odds, at Long Tan was testament to the personal and fighting qualities of the Australian and New Zealand troops. D Coy stead-fastly fought off numerous attacks, while the FO team called in devastating and persistent artillery fire.

The culminating point of the battle came when reinforcements from Nui Dat, 2.5km from the battlefield, arrived by armoured personnel carrier.

The significance of the victory to the future conduct of the ATF’s operations in Phuoc Tuy Province was profound.

In the months following the battle, the ATF restored security in the prov-ince and limited local VC initiatives in the region.

Deadly deliveriesThe Air Force’s brief involvement was crucial. At a point when D Coy was run-ning out of ammunition, down to about 100 rounds, and still pressed by the VC main forces, two No. 9 Squadron Iroquois helicopters flew through appalling weather conditions and poor visibility to deliver 530kg of ammuni-tion directly into the heart of D Coy’s command position.

The accurate and timely delivery

of this ammunition enabled D Coy to defend its position until reinforcements arrived.

The Battle of Long Tan occurred while the Air Force was still in the learning phase of rotary wing opera-tions. At the time, it had been flying helicopters operationally for only four years and had still to fully develop the capability in terms of equipment, train-ing and doctrine.

As an example, the task force air commander was GPCAPT Peter Raw, a veteran pilot who had been decorated for his bravery in conducting long-range air drop missions during WWII.

He was an extremely experienced fixed-wing pilot. While this was fine in relation to his command over the Caribou component of the task force, it was not ideal in commanding rotary wing operations.

But the capability was so new no helicopter pilots had sufficient seniority to fill such a critical appointment.

Mission possibleAt the height of the battle, the besieged company commander, MAJ Harry Smith, requested urgent air supply of ammunition.

It is known that BRIG Oliver David Jackson, the ATF commander, directly passed this request on to GPCAPT Raw. BRIG Jackson became angry when GPCAPT Raw expressed doubts such a mission would be possible due to the extreme weather conditions at the time, poor light and likely heavy ground fire directed at the helicopters.

In response to BRIG Jackson’s insistence at a time when he was faced with the loss of a company, GPCAPT Raw consulted the four aircrew who would be responsible for flying the mis-sion.

By chance, the helicopters and crew – FLTLTs Cliff Dohle, Bruce Lane, Frank Riley and Bob Grandin – were at hand, having flown a concert party into Nui Dat.

The most experienced of the pilots, FLTLT Lane, said that with two aircraft operating in unison there was a good chance one would get through and, given the threat to D Coy, the mission should be attempted.

Despite later claims to the contrary, GPCAPT Raw approved the mission and the resupply was flown. Claims that the pilots flew the mission against orders are an exaggeration.

While Canberra had ordered that no helicopters should be risked in insecure landing sites, 9SQN had previously flown into such sites when extracting SAS patrols.

In approving the Long Tan resup-ply, GPCAPT Raw was exercising his authority as the commander on the spot.

Heights of achievementOne helicopter flew at height, direct-ing the low helicopter on to the signal smoke marking D Coy’s position. The low-flying craft then hovered over the position and dropped the ammuni-tion boxes from 10 to 12 metres above the troops in contact. Each box was wrapped in blankets to ensure the ammunition survived the impact with the ground.

While the drop sounded a simple task, in reality it was extremely dif-ficult and a testament to the skill of the aircrew.

The mission was conducted in a severe thunderstorm, with poor visibil-ity due to both rain and smoke from the artillery barrage that was briefly halted while the helicopters flew in. Just find-ing the drop zone was a feat in itself.

The poor visibility also dogged the next mission 9SQN flew in support of D Coy that day. At nearly midnight, after the battle, seven Australian and one US helicopter flew into a roughly prepared landing zone to evacuate the dead and wounded Australian soldiers. The area was still affected by smoke and was shrouded in darkness.

Concerned that the large enemy force was still close by, the aircrew were directed to land without lights. While the US helicopter ignored the direc-tion from the ground commander and used its landing lights, the Australian helicopters flew in with their lights off, using four pinpricks of light at ground level as a guide.

All the helicopters made it in and were able to complete the sad but vital task of evacuating the battle’s casualties.

So ended the Battle of Long Tan. In the days after, the ATF endeavoured to follow up on the VC as they retreated from the area and 9SQN continued to supply air support to the infantry and SAS patrols throughout the region.

Compiled by the Directorate of History – Air Force

FLTLT Frank Riley flew in the lead helicopter with

FLTLT Bob Grandin.

Australian soldiers in a sand-bagged gun pit at Nui Dat, Vietnam.

More Long Tan articles on pages 14-15

Long Tan RCEAIR F August 25, 201614

AFTER trundling around in WWII Dakotas and early Cold War-era Neptunes, flying an Iroquois into the Battle of Long Tan during

monsoonal rain was a fairly steep learning curve for one No. 9 Squadron pilot.

FLTLT Bob Grandin completed con-version training to Iroquois helicopters in January 1966, and arrived in Vung Tau, Vietnam, on June 12 that year, moving into an old French villa on the foreshore.

He recalled it being preferable to living in a tent, even though there were six or eight officers to a room.

On the morning of August 18, FLTLT Grandin was tasked with flying a concert party from Vung Tau to Nui Dat. He felt lucky to be one of the crews given the privi-lege of flying music legends Col Joye and Little Pattie to the concert.

“We would meet them, be able to have a chat and see what they were like and go to the concert,” he said.

“It needed two choppers to carry them and their band, so FLTLT Bruce Lane and FLTLT Cliff Dohle joined FLTLT Frank Riley and me on the task.”

After landing at Nui Dat with the con-cert party, they checked in at the operations tent to inform them of their arrival. FLTLT Grandin said they were sitting around their helicopters whiling away the time.

“We could hear the music of the concert, but didn’t want to be too far from the heli-copters in case we were required urgently, so we had not gone to the concert area,” he said.

“Our first recognition of action came when the artillery started firing. It startled everyone as it wasn’t expected, and one thought there wouldn’t be any routine firing during the concert.

“The rate of firing increased quickly, the number of guns involved increased and the tension conveyed over the radios rapidly increased.”

When OC D Coy MAJ Harry Smith called from Long Tan for an urgent ammu-nition resupply, the crews discussed how to

SGT Dave Morley

A HELICOPTER crewman who joined the Air Force in 1962 to “get a trade and for adventure” received more than his fair share of adventure during the Battle of Long Tan.

LAC, later FLTLT, David Collins (retd) com-menced his tour of Vietnam in June 1966 with No. 9 Squadron.

His Iroquois helicopter, A2-1020, was one of two sent to Nui Dat from Vung Tau with the Col Joye and Little Pattie concert party on August 18, the day of the battle.

D Coy, 6RAR was running dangerously low on ammunition and called for support from the two helicopters.

At the time, the Commonwealth Government forbade the two aircraft from getting involved, because they were in Vietnam to fly support mis-sions only and not to engage in combat.

FLTLT Collins said that after a heated exchange with all authorities, the two crews decided to load as much ammunition as they could carry on the aircraft with the express pur-pose of delivering the desperately needed sup-plies.

Overloaded, they staggered into the air dur-ing an arranged lull in the artillery shelling and located the Australian troops in the rubber planta-tion of Long Tan.

Hovering over the top of D Coy’s position, they dropped the ammunition and other vital sup-plies into their laps.

This required precision flying in the middle of a monsoon, as well as the enormous amount of ground fire below.

The two UH-1s hovered overhead the battle, one at a time, for as long as it took and departed.

FLTLT Collins said not enough could be writ-ten about the way Australian servicemen acted that day.

“The men of D Coy, 6 RAR, the artillery and 9SQN were involved in one of the most decisive battles Australians have taken part in,” he said.

FLTLT Collins was awarded a Mention in Despatches for his actions during the battle.

The citation read, “For accepting responsibili-ties beyond those required of his rank and for cool and effective action while under enemy fire.”

He said he was just doing his job.FLTLT Collins stayed in the Air Force until

1979 – he received a commission in 1967 and spent his final 12 years in the force as an air traf-fic control officer.

SGT Dave Morley talks to one of the pilots who flew a vital but deadly mission into Long Tan

Battle was the ‘most

Just doing his job in an unexpected adventure

‘The men … were involved in one of the most decisive battles Australians have taken part in.FLTLT David Collins (retd)

deliver the ammunition and it was decid-ed to employ the same technique used for SASR insertions and extractions.

FLTLT Grandin said the lead helicopter, with FLTLT Riley and himself on board, took a lighter load and went out at a height of about 600m to locate the target zone and make contact with D Coy.

“The other helicopter, with FLTLT Lane and FLTLT Dohle onboard, would fly at low level and we could direct it into the drop zone,” he said.

“As it departed we were to dive down and drop our load. This was designed to

improve our safety, as at that height the probability of being hit by small-arms fire was greatly reduced, and at treetop level the time of sighting was so small it was difficult to fire an accurate shot.”

OC Admin Coy MAJ Owen O’Brien and RSM WO1 George Chinn boarded the heli-copters to heave out the ammunition.

FLTLT Grandin said as they lifted off the pad and reached the treetops, another surprise awaited them.

“To the east was a large thunderstorm with intense rain falling over Long Tan. I was reading the map and using the radio as

Frank flew into the storm. He had to slow down to maintain some visibility and we were back to 20 knots,” he said.

“I remember drawing myself back into the armour-plated seat, trying to make myself a smaller target.”

Back at Nui Dat, the remainder of 9SQN arrived from Vung Tau. As the battle wound down, the crews were briefed by 9SQN 2IC SQNLDR “Laddie” Hindley to go to Long Tan to casevac D Coy’s dead and wounded.

The conditions were not good for flying.“SQNLDR Hindley gave us an order to

go into the position, which would be lit by the lights of an APC. It was small with sur-rounding trees,” he said.

“Each aircraft allowed the one in front to take off and then started up. Some were having no trouble descending into the dark position, while others were going close to trees and having to pull back and try again. Then it was our turn to go.”

FLTLT Grandin said he and FLTLT Riley had decided to share responsibilities.

“I would look outside and talk him down, watching obstacles and rate of descent, and he would keep a close eye on the instruments, making a form of ground-controlled approach,” he said.

“Someone ran forward and said there were no more wounded – we could go or take some bodies out. Frank said we’d take back the bodies and about four were put into the back.”

FLTLT Grandin flew out over the enemy retreat routes the next morning, dropping leaflets offering to pay them if they surren-dered, with extra if they brought a weapon.

“The Battle of Long Tan was the most fearful of my life,” he said.

SQNLDR Grandin left the Air Force in January 1973, after 16 years’ service. He worked in teaching, flying, farming and as OC of the Army Reserve’s University of New England Company in Armidale, NSW.

The Iroquois piloted by FLTLT Frank Riley and FLTLT Bob Grandin at Long Tan, A2-1020, is on display at the museum at RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook, Victoria.

FLTLT Bob Grandin in the Iroquois in which he flew the courier run from Nui

Dat to Vung Tau.

Then LAC David Collins checks the flow of liquid saline into an 18-year-old regular North Vietnamese soldier captured in the Phuoc Tuy Province.

Long TanRCEAIR F August 25, 2016 15

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Little Pattie and the Joy Boys perform at Nui Dat, having been flown in by

9SQN Iroquois helicopters on the morning of the

Battle of Long Tan. Photos: courtesy AWM

AS A result of their actions at Long Tan, FLTLT Cliff Dohle and FLTLT Frank Riley were recommended by all levels of Australian command in Vietnam for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC).

FLTLT Dohle’s medal was never forthcoming. Instead, he was awarded a Mention in Despatches on November 23, 1967. On the same day, FLTLT Riley received his DFC and GPCAPT Peter Raw received a Distinguished Service Order.

Former FLTLT Dohle died of heart failure, at 73, at his Lilydale, Queensland, home in February 2009.

In March 2010, it was announced he had been posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, now the Air Force’s equivalent of the DFC.

The citation read, “For distinguished leadership in action as a captain of an Iroquois helicopter of No. 9 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, during the Bat-tle of Long Tan in Vietnam on August 18, 1966.”.

The award was presented to his family by then Governor-General Quentin Bryce on August 17, 2010, 44 years after the action in which he earned it.

In March 2012, the aircraft FLTLT Dohle flew at Long Tan, RAAF Iroquois UH-1B A2-1022, was mounted on permanent display outside the Caloundra RSL Club in Queensland.

It has been fully restored to Vietnam-era livery af-ter spending some years on display at Nyngan, NSW.

Worth more than a mention in the end

MAJ Harry Smith (centre) thanks

FLTLT Cliff Dohle for his part in

the D Coy, 6RAR rescue mission.

fearful of my life’

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So don’t delay, submit your AFR and Inventory online today.

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Your Toll Transitions Case Manager will let you know if a PRV is required for your relocation – this can normallybe determined by the information, including family details, you provide in your inventory and AFR. If your movedoes require a PRV, a Toll Transitions Consultant will attend your home to confirm the particular needs of yourremoval. The Toll Consultant will assess the volume of your household furniture and effects and note anyspecial packing requirements. They will also advise of your responsibilities and the removalist’s responsibilitiesduring your relocation.

The Toll Transitions Consultant will call you to arrange a suitable time to visit your home and conduct thesurvey. PRVs are usually conducted during normal Defence working hours, however special arrangements maybe made outside of these hours by agreement. If you are difficult to contact please call Toll Transitions on1800 819 167 so we can help you work out a suitable time.

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17August 25, 2016RCEAIR F Personnel

FLTLT Shaun Donnelly and WOFF Rudi Vitasz

EVERYBODY learnt something from the Air Mobility Group’s (AMG) Warrant Officer Conference at RAAF Amberley in June.

That was the summation of AMG Woff Rudi Vitasz, who hosted the conference and was happy with the outcomes.

Attendees were briefed on cur-rent Air Force programs, informa-tion on professional skills, innova-tion and leadership.

“Everybody walked away with something new, knowledge was broadened and airmanship skills were enhanced,” WOFF Vitasz said.

“The guest speakers we invited included Senior Air Force com-manders, the Warrant Officer of the Air Force, a senior army officer and more. They all provided informative and bespoke briefs to the group.

“It was great to see the interac-tion with the presenters and the group.

“It showed that across the senior enlisted leadership within AMG we are interested in the future of the workforce, the group and wider Air Force.”

The conference included visiting presenters from a range of speciali-sations.

Among them were WOFF-AF Rob Swanwick, DGLOG-AF AIRCDRE Peter Yates, Commander CSG AIRCDRE Scott Winchester and WOFF Bobby McFerran from the Plan Jericho team.

WOFF Neil Schiller, from HQ 86 Wing, said the chance to have discussions with peers and com-manders involved in key improve-ment programs across Air Force was valuable.

“For me, the most beneficial part of the conference was the presenta-

tion of Leadership in Combat. I took a lot away from the experience and information conveyed by that presenter,” he said.

“Moreso, each topic was focused on the role of the WOFF or briefed in the context of our position in the organisation.

“The information presented by the WOFF-AF on the progression of the WOFF workforce was interest-ing and it’s good to see a different and innovative way of ensuring we, as WOFFs, continue to improve.

“This was a great opportunity to make contacts with peers outside the normal chain of command, and especially at the squadrons and AMG Headquarters.

“The new networks established through the conference are some-thing to cultivate.”

For information, go to drnet.defence.gov.au/raaf and click on the AMG tab.

Managing top WOFFsGREATER career opportunities are being made available for Air Force Warrant Officers as part of the WOFF Employment Continuum (WOFF EC) project.

The WOFF EC project, led by EXECWOFF Lisa Sheridan, began a review into Air Force’s WOFF workforce in early 2015.

As one of the EC initiatives, a pilot Talent Management Board (TMB) for WOFFs was held in May and June to aid the selection of WOFFs for higher respon-sibilities.

Director Personnel – Air Force, GPCAPT Ken Robinson, said the imple-mentation of a TMB for WOFFs provided a better framework for Air Force to make the best use of its senior airmen.

“A WOFF TMB will identify career pathways for our senior airmen through the conduct of a consistent, transparent and fair selection process,” GPCAPT Robinson said.

“This will enable effective placement of senior WOFFs against Air Force capa-bility requirements and staffing priorities, including EXECWOFFs. We will also use this system to identify WOFFs for posting into vacant officer roles.”

The boards were introduced for wing commanders in 2015 and are now a foun-dation of the WGCDR career management process.

The intent of a WOFF TMB is to iden-tify the next crop of high flyers for roles with greater responsibility and influence.

WOFF-AF Rob Swanwick reinforced the importance of continued development and career planning for Air Force’s senior enlisted personnel to support capability into the future.

“Career management shouldn’t stop at the rank of WOFF,” he said.

“A management strategy is needed to collectively review the performance, potential and profile of its warrant offic-ers, ensuring all members continue to remain relevant and support emerging capabilities.”

The WOFF TMB will also identify members with potential for commis-sioning and for attendance at Australian Command and Staff College or Capability and Technology Management College (CTMC).

The first placement of Air Force WOFFs on CTMC will occur in 2018.

Phase oneNominations are provided by mem-bers of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT). Candidates are reviewed by an independent board looking at performance, qualifications, experi-ence and potential. A candidate pool is identified for phase two and those members not proceeding forward will receive feedback from the board. This feedback will also be provided to the nominating SLT member.Phase twoThe candidates cleared in phase one and Tier C WOFFs are con-sidered for the anticipated Tier B, C and specific Tier A positions (for example, Adaptive Culture, Member Support Coordinator, ATG Com-

mand WOFF, CTMC or ACSC) for vacancies in 2017 and onwards. Candidates considered in phase two submit a “candidate letter”, which is the member’s voice to the board, highlighting experience, aspirations, limitations and mobility.

Phase threeCandidates identified for Tier A and B opportunities will be shortlisted for positions. Candidates identified for Tier C consideration will be invited to attend a Group WOFF Board (GWB) comprising DGPERS-AF, DP-AF, WOFF-AF, and FEG Com-manders for upcoming vacancies. At each stage of the process feedback will be provided to the member and nominating SLT member.

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

Board identifies talent and career pathways

Something new for allAIRCDRE Peter Yates addresses the annual Air Mobility Group WOFF’s Conference at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: CPL Casey Gaul

JULY TRIAL RESULTSOTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate

1 x Obtaining a Financial Advantage – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.2(1)The member was accused of using a Defence Travel Card to pay for services and withdraw cash, totalling $1044.40 in value, which the member was not entitled to receive. The member pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge. The member forfeited seniority in rank and was fined $2000 (with $1000 suspended and the balance to be paid in instalments).

OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate

30 x Obtaining a Financial Advantage – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.2(1)The member was accused of using a Defence Travel Card to withdraw cash, totalling $3130 in value, which the member was not entitled to receive. The member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. The member was severely reprimanded and dismissed from the Defence Force.

All Court Martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial results are subject to command review and appeal. The results are of trials across the ADF.

Cessation of instructionsPLTOFF Aaron Curran

AT THE end of 2017 the ubiquitous acronym DI(AF) will no longer be popping up in emails as a result of changes to legislation associ-ated with First Principles.

After many decades of service to Defence policy, DI(AF) will cease to exist as of Decem-ber 31, 2017.

Existing DI(AF)s policy will be progressive-ly moved into Air Force Standing Instructions and manuals. As of July 1 this year, service chiefs have no longer been issuing Defence Instructions, such as DI(AF).

Transition arrangements will allow the DI(AF) series to remain active until its end of life date.

The transition allows Air Force to review the policy suite contained in DI(AF) and to cancel, update, consolidate, simplify and inte-grate its policies across Air Force and with the broader Defence organisation.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies has appointed AIRCDRE Stephen Osborne, Director General Strategy and Planning AFHQ, to coordinate this transition for Air Force.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies has identified technical and professional mastery as essential key attributes for personnel to contribute to the collec-tive professional mastery required for a transformed Air Force.

By approaching professional development as a career-long journey, members can attain professional mas-tery. Effectively mastering the techni-cal aspects of a job is the first step of the process.

LACW Grace Speter is an exam-ple of how progress towards technical

mastery is acquired at all career stag-es. LACW Speter was required to take on a high-level of responsibility only six months into role at the Australian Signals Directorate while a number of senior roles were vacant.

“I was quickly put in a position where I had to make reporting deci-sions and I sought advice and support from my supervisors and subject mat-ter experts to do so. I also looked for resources that I could use to answer my questions independently, rather than always asking someone.

“I have a lot of support and help to acquire the technical skills I need, and I’m continuing to learn on the job.

“I’m also helping to put in place training resources for others coming into the team to make it easier for them to learn our processes through excellent work aids, which benefits the whole team,” LACW Speter said.

LACW Speter was awarded the Air Intelligence Analyst (AIA) of the Year Award in 2015 for her skills and dedication to fulfilling her role to a high level.

As set out in the Commander’s Intent, everyone within Air Force should know how their role contrib-utes to Air Force capability, as well as understanding air power and its merits.

Air Force personnel should talk to their supervisors about opportunities for learning and development, as well as seeking broad knowledge proac-tively and independently.

The 2016 AIA of the Year Award will be announced on September 20.

Mastering skills

Manual applications are now a thing of the past

Resourceful approach to professional mastery is paying off for award-winning LACW

LACW Grace Speter, who was the AIA of the Year Award recipient in 2015, has taken on a higher level of responsibility early in her career. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

REGISTRATIONS for the 2016 Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network (DATSIN) confer-ence close on August 31, with this year’s conference set to be held on October 5-6 in Canberra.

The theme of the conference is “Change. Challenge. Opportunity”.

This year the DATSIN held a design logo competition, with the winning design created by Courtney Aaron, a proud Aboriginal woman of Noongar decent.

Nominations for the conference are open to indigenous ADF and APS employees.

Director of Indigenous Affairs Michael Howell said the DATSIN con-ference provided a unique opportunity for Indigenous Defence employees to network with fellow DATSIN mem-bers.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous employees to connect with each other and develop profes-sional relationships and networks,” Mr Howell said.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous employees to connect with each other and develop professional relationships and networks.”

Any members wishing to attend the conference are required to obtain their supervisor’s endorsement and nomi-nate using the registration form located on the Indigenous Affairs DATSIN webpage on the DRN, enquiries can be directed to: DATSIN.Conference@defence.gov.au

Visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/People/Diversity/Indigenous-Affairs/Pages/Defence-Aboriginal-and-Torres-Strait-Islander-Network-Conference.aspx

Conference fantastic networking opportunity

18 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FPersonnel

FOLLOWING a review into Defence red tape, all personnel are now required to use PMKeyS Self Service (PSS) for all pay, leave and personal data transactions avail-able in that functionality.

Pay and Administration assistant sec-retary Brian Paule said self-service was a convenient and simple process for members to submit their pay, leave and personal data changes.

“Maximising the use of self service will ensure that processing times for leave appli-cations and pay transactions are dramatically decreased.”

Processing centres may return paper and SmartForms unprocessed to the member’s approving authority for processing through PSS.

Mr Paule said there were exceptions for electronic submission of forms and person-nel should refer to Defgram 284/2016 for more information.

“A monitoring process will also be implemented to ensure that the returned forms, such as leave applications, have been input in PSS,” he said.

PSS is available for the following leave types:• FAN – ADF War and Annual Leave• FSL – Short Leave• FSR – Short Leave – Removal • FTP – Forces Travel on Posting• FTR – Trainee Leave – ADF• FTV – Forces Travel – BRL and

CompassionateStaff who do not have access to the

Defence Restricted Network will be able to access PSS via the PSS Home Portal avail-able on the internet.

The PSS Home Portal provides Defence members with secure internet access to the Defence HR system.

To be registered for Home Portal mem-bers must have their private email and mobile phone number recorded in PMKeyS. Mobile numbers must be in the format start-ing with ‘61’ (Australia) not ‘0’, for example 61 413 000 000.

For more information and details on how to reg-ister for the PwSS Home Portal visit: http://drnet.defence.gov.au/People/PMKeyS/PMKeyS-Self-Service/Pages/Home-Portal-Information.aspx

Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network 2016 conference logo designed by Courtney Aaron.

FLTLT Jessica Aldred

LACW Grace Speter has been recog-nised for her technical mastery – earn-ing her the Air Intelligence Analyst of the Year award for her skills and dedication to fulfilling her role to a high level.

The air intelligence analyst was required to take on a high level of responsibility while a number of sen-ior roles were vacant, only six months into her role at the Australian Signals Directorate.

The accolade comes after CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies identified technical and professional mastery as essential key attributes for personnel to contribute to the collective profes-sional mastery required for a trans-formed Air Force.

“I was quickly put in a position where I had to make reporting deci-sions and I sought advice and support from my supervisors and subject mat-ter experts to do so,” LACW Speter said.

“I also looked for resources that

I could use to answer my questions independently, rather than always ask-ing someone. I have a lot of support and help to acquire the technical skills I need, and I’m continuing to learn on the job.

“I’m also helping to put in place training resources for others coming into the team to make it easier for them to learn our processes through excellent work aids, which benefit the whole team.”

CAF AIRMSHL Davies said by approaching professional development

as a career-long journey, members can attain professional mastery and effec-tively master the technical aspects of a job is the first step of the process.

As set out in the Commander’s Intent, everyone within Air Force should know how their role contrib-utes capability, as well as understand-ing air power and its merits. Members should talk to their supervisors about opportunities for learning and devel-opment, as well as seeking broad knowledge proactively and indepen-dently.

A shining example

Manual applications are now a thing of the past

Air intelligence analyst recognised for her professional mastery

Air Intelligence Analyst of the Year recipient, LACW Grace Speter, with her award. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

REGISTRATIONS for the 2016 Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network (DATSIN) confer-ence close on August 31, with this year’s conference set to be held on October 5-6 in Canberra.

The theme of the conference is “Change. Challenge. Opportunity”.

This year the DATSIN held a design logo competition, with the winning design created by Courtney Aaron, a proud Aboriginal woman of Noongar decent.

Nominations for the conference are open to indigenous ADF and APS employees.

Director of Indigenous Affairs Michael Howell said the DATSIN con-ference provided a unique opportunity for Indigenous Defence employees to network with fellow DATSIN mem-bers.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous employees to connect with each other and develop profes-sional relationships and networks,” Mr Howell said.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous employees to connect with each other and develop professional relationships and networks.”

Any members wishing to attend the conference are required to obtain their supervisor’s endorsement and nomi-nate using the registration form located on the Indigenous Affairs DATSIN webpage on the DRN, enquiries can be directed to: DATSIN.Conference@defence.gov.au

Visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/People/Diversity/Indigenous-Affairs/Pages/Defence-Aboriginal-and-Torres-Strait-Islander-Network-Conference.aspx

Conference fantastic networking opportunity

18 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FPersonnel

FOLLOWING a review into Defence red tape, all personnel are now required to use PMKeyS Self Service (PSS) for all pay, leave and personal data transactions avail-able in that functionality.

Pay and Administration assistant sec-retary Brian Paule said self-service was a convenient and simple process for members to submit their pay, leave and personal data changes.

“Maximising the use of self service will ensure that processing times for leave appli-cations and pay transactions are dramatically decreased.”

Processing centres may return paper and SmartForms unprocessed to the member’s approving authority for processing through PSS.

Mr Paule said there were exceptions for electronic submission of forms and person-nel should refer to Defgram 284/2016 for more information.

“A monitoring process will also be implemented to ensure that the returned forms, such as leave applications, have been input in PSS,” he said.

PSS is available for the following leave types:• FAN – ADF War and Annual Leave• FSL – Short Leave• FSR – Short Leave – Removal • FTP – Forces Travel on Posting• FTR – Trainee Leave – ADF• FTV – Forces Travel – BRL and

CompassionateStaff who do not have access to the

Defence Restricted Network will be able to access PSS via the PSS Home Portal avail-able on the internet.

The PSS Home Portal provides Defence members with secure internet access to the Defence HR system.

To be registered for Home Portal mem-bers must have their private email and mobile phone number recorded in PMKeyS. Mobile numbers must be in the format start-ing with ‘61’ (Australia) not ‘0’, for example 61 413 000 000.

For more information and details on how to reg-ister for the PwSS Home Portal visit: http://drnet.defence.gov.au/People/PMKeyS/PMKeyS-Self-Service/Pages/Home-Portal-Information.aspx

Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network 2016 conference logo designed by Courtney Aaron.

THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCEARTS FOR RECOVERY, RESILIENCE,TEAMWORK AND SKILLS PROGRAM

ADFARRTS ProgramIt’s on again! Currently serving ADF personnel with health and wellbeing

issues can now apply to attend an innovative arts program utilising Musicand Rhythm, Creative Writing, Visual Arts, and Acting and Performance.

No previous experience or training is requiredas tutoring and mentoring will be provided.

The Program will be held in Canberra from5 November to 3 December 2016.

More information about the ARRTS Program,including application forms, can be obtained by

emailing ADF.ARRTS@defence.gov.au or calling (02) 6265 5923.

Applications close 30 September 2016. DPS

MA

Y0

50-1

6

A WOMEN’S Integrated Networking Groups (WINGs) session was held at RAAF Base Townsville on July 7.

The concept of WINGs was developed as a result of feedback received by focus groups with Air Force women led by DGPERS-AF, AIRCDRE Bob Rodgers in June 2011.

It was evident there was a lack

of opportunities for women to network, mentor each other and provide advice and support to one another, particularly for women in non-traditional employment roles.

WINGs is a mentoring and networking program to support Air Force women throughout their career.

This session was hosted by FLGOFF Annabelle Hill with spe-

cial guest speaker Heidi Alexandra Pollard, who presented Ten Commandments of Leading Ladies.

Ms Pollard covered topics such as your inner critic, time wasters in your life (people and things), yes versus no (how it’s easier to say yes but no is easier to do) and speaking up and body language in communi-cation.

FLGOFF Annabelle Hill hosts the WINGs session in Townsville. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

FLTLT Nick O’Connor

DEFENCE reservists employed by the ACT Government will now find it easier to fulfil their service requirements under a new memo-randum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Defence.

The MOU was signed by ACT Deputy Chief Minister Simon Corbell and the head of the Cadet, Reserve Employer Support Division (CRESD), MAJGEN Iain Spence, at this year’s presentation of awards to supportive ACT employers.

MAJGEN Spence said the agree-ment “heralded a new era for ACT Government-ADF working relation-ships”.

“It recognises a commitment from the ACT Government and Defence to work cooperatively

to support reservist employees in undertaking their ADF service”.

“The MOU outlines a num-ber of initiatives which will build on the existing cooperative and positive working relationship between the ACT Government and CRESD,” MAJGEN Spence said.

“I t ensures that the ACT Government, its ADF reservist employees and Defence keep open lines of communication to ensure the benefits of reserve service are maximised for all parties.”

MAJGEN Spence congratulated the ACT Government on its contin-ued commitment to reservists.

“Every day, employers such as the ACT Government support ADF reservists through a range of flex-ible working arrangements and poli-cies. The support provided is not

only valued by the reservist but, more broadly, the entire ADF.”

The Australian Public Service Commissioner, John Lloyd, has also committed to a reciprocal arrangement so the ACT can call on Commonwealth employees, includ-ing ADF employees, who volunteer for the ACT Emergency Services Agency in times of need.

The Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC) in the ACT and south-east NSW worked with CRESD and the ACT Chief Minister’s directorate to finalise the MOU.

DRSC chairman Philip Moss said the agreement “confirms the ACT’s whole-of-government recog-nition and support of the commit-ment and contribution ADF reserv-ists make to Australia’s defence”.

How our ‘leading ladies’ can show the way

Agreement with reservists’ bosses

Greatest changes in 40 yearsTHE First Principles Review is arguably the most significant reform of Defence since the 1970s – certainly for the man-agement and delivery of capability, according to VCDF VADM Ray Griggs.

“Defence now has a One Defence business model with a strong strategic centre, clear accountabilities, and lean-er structures, systems and processes,” VADM Griggs (pictured) said.

The new Capability Life Cycle forms a crucial part of the One Defence model. It establishes a single end-to-end capa-bility development function to maximise the efficient, effective and professional delivery of military capability.

Implementation of the Capability Life Cycle began on April 1, with the Capability Life Cycle Detailed Design approved, Capability Development Group disbanded, and clear and strengthened authorities and account-abilities put in place.

A single Investment Committee, consolidating several committees and now chaired by VADM Griggs, has been established. The Investment Committee considers all capital investment across Defence, including military capability, ICT, and estate and infrastructure invest-ments.

“The main mechanism to achieve this is through the Integrated Investment Plan, which out l ines where the Government intends to invest in Defence in the future,” VADM Griggs said.

“Projects and broader investments are now managed within a series of pro-grams. Our focus now is to make sure

we only do the work that needs to be done for the Investment Committee to make decisions, and for the project to move forward to the next milestone,” he said.

Defence’s capability management processes are being simplified, with an emphasis on thinking about what deci-sions need to be made, rather than being driven by overly prescriptive templates. Tools and reporting systems used across the life cycle are being standardised.

“All these changes are brought together by a strong focus on behaviours to get Defence to become more effective, transparent and trusted across govern-ment,” VADM Griggs said.

“For the remainder of 2016 the capa-bility workstream will focus on work-ing through the Capability Life Cycle changes with government and central agencies.

“We will also integrate contestability into the life cycle, and broaden smart buyer practices to all delivery groups.”

19August 25, 2016RCEAIR F Personnel

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Best achievement

FLGOFF Todd Skipper

A CEREMONY was held at Murray Bridge Training Area in South Australia in June to celebrate 40 years of service by 3SECFOR WOFF Lawrie Best.

CO WGCDR Catherine Williams pre-sented WOFF Best with a ceremonial sword in recognition of his significant achievement.

“WOFF Best has given 40 years of distinguished service to Air Force and continues as an exceptional mentor to the junior ADG mustering within 3SECFOR,” WGCDR Williams said.

“This celebration of an exemplary career at Murray Bridge during a live fire activity in the company of his peers was priceless.

“For once the WOFF was speech-less.”

WOFF Best provided vigilant over-sight of LF 1-6 on a range of weapons. This included the F88 Austeyr rifle, F89 light support weapon (Minimi) and MAG 58 general purpose machine gun.

WOFF Disciplinary RAAF Base Edinburgh Graham Farrington and Ex-ecutive WOFF 92 Wing Kevin Gardner were among the guests at the event.

WOFF Best enlisted in 1967 and he has had a prestigious career as an airfield defence guard.

WOFF Best has been awarded the Helicopter Door Gunner’s Brevet, Military Skills Instructor Badge, Skill at Arms Marksmanship Badge and the AF Ground Combat Badge.

WGCDR Catherine Williams presents WOFF Lawrie Best with a ceremonial sword in recognition of 40 years of service.

20 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FFlightline

Above: 33SQN personnel from RAAF Base Amberley, ACW Monique Bobbermien (from back left) LACW Jessica Johnson, WOFF Talwyn Davies, ACW Lainey Harrison, CPL Amy White, ACW Maddison Bates (from front left) and ACW Jessie Kirkman, enjoy the perfect combination of cupcakes and puppies during an annual RSPCA fundraiser.Photo: CPL Ben Dempster

Below: (from left) LACWs Bronwyn Mullins and Lauren Weymouth join Angel-Paws volunteers as they prepare to step off for a charity walk in Townsville.Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

Left: Thomas Butson, a student of The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James in Townsville, is presented with an ADFA Award by FLTLT Brendan Rothery, from RAAF Base Townsville.Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

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21August 25, 2016RCEAIR F Finance

Knowledge is power when buying a car, ASIC chairman Greg Medcraft writes

Things you auto know

BUYING a car is an excit-ing prospect, particularly if you’re buying your first car.

It can also be an expensive financial commitment. While price, specifically value for money, is a key consideration, other issues that can have a real financial impact are often over-looked.

With the average motor vehicle debt at $19,500 (accord-ing to the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Australian Social Trends 2014), knowing the real cost of buying and running your car is important, as it’s likely you will own it for a long time.

To help car buyers make bet-ter decisions, ASIC (Australian Securities and Investment Commission) has developed a mobile phone application – MoneySmart Cars.

The app is a free tool that pro-vides practical advice to support the financial decisions you face when buying a car.

It provides tips on what you should do before you go to the car yard and what to expect when you’re there, so you don’t get overwhelmed and distracted by sales tactics. Being prepared

before you shop around will help you make better decisions. You should research your options, know how much you have to spend, shop around for your loan and work out the extras you want so you don’t blow your budget.

The app points out the com-mon car-buying traps and pro-vides information on finding alternative ways to finance a car. It provides warnings on hidden costs, including insurance, and alerts you to the risks of add-on insurance products (such as consumer credit insurance, gap insurance, extended warran-ties and mechanical breakdown insurance, cover for tyres, rims, vinyl or paint, and other extras) which can be expensive and may offer little value.

The MoneySmart Cars app is available now on the App Store and Google Play, and ASIC has developed a series of videos for social media in which V8 SuperCar driver Craig Lowndes (right) introduces some of the key features.

For more advice and tips on car loans and insurance visit ASIC’s MoneySmart website at www.moneysmart.gov.au

MoneySmart Cars app shows shoppers the major traps when

buying a car.

22 August 25, 2016RCEAIR FHealth & Fitness

Here’s what to do if you are injured while playing an approved ADF sport

How to prevent or react to injuries sustained through ADF sport:

• Prevent – warm up, stretch and get ready for sport

• Present – if injured, stop, apply first-aid and present for treatment

• Report – log your sporting injury via Sentinel (see the DRN desktop for icon)

• Claim – lodge a claim for your injury

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRYSPORT is a critical enabler for

ADF members, giving them both physical and social ben-efits.

ADF members need to do four things when they undertake an approved ADF sport according to Jim Porteous, Director of Rehabilitation and Compensation with Joint Health Command. They are: prevent, present, report and claim.

“As with any physical activity, sport has its risks,” Mr Porteous said.

“We teach our people to prepare for sport with warming-up, cooling-down and stretching exercises, along with PTI advice and sports safety management plans. That’s prevention.”

In the event of an injury, the present, report and claim steps need to be taken.

“The first priority is to stop what you’re doing, mitigate the circumstanc-es and treat the injury – apply self- or buddy-aid,” he said.

The next step is to present.“Early presentation to your local

health centre or clinic improves out-comes and establishes the trail of evi-dence supporting any potential claim for compensation,” Mr Porteous said.

“We can also assess your need for a structured rehabilitation program if the injury impacts on your ability to work or deploy.

“If you’re not near a Defence health facility then call 1800 IM SICK (467 725) for advice on where to go.”

Members then need to report and claim any injuries.

Mr Porteous said reporting the injury was not only a legal requirement but it helped to future-proof the member if the injury had a long-term impact.

“It is critical for the member to report their sporting injury via Sentinel. Not only because it’s mandated, but to protect the member if that injury

From the pain to the claim

later affects their career or capacity to work,” he said. Members who incur a workplace injury are entitled to seek a determination of liability from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

“It is in a member’s interest to sub-mit any claim for compensation as soon as practicable once the injury has stabi-lised, as evidence required to support a claim will be most readily available at this time,” Mr Porteous said.

“So if you’re injured through ADF sport look out for ‘future you’ by pre-senting, reporting, then claiming.”

For more information about the claiming process see the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website: http://www.dva.gov.au/benefits-and-payments/compensation

It is mandatory to report an ADF sports injury.

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23August 25, 2016RCEAIR F Sp rt

CPL Sebastian Beurich

ENGLAND may have won the Ashes last year, but the Aussies came away from “The Other Ashes” series with con-vincing wins over the UK Armed Forces teams.

The men’s and women’s teams played a total of 17 matches against sub-county teams, and the British single-services and UK Armed Forces teams during their tour, from July 8-29.

The tour ended with the ADF men playing their British equivalents on the Nursery Grounds at Lord’s, the spiritual home of cricket, and the women play-ing their British counterparts at Burton Court, Royal Chelsea Hospital.

Both ADF teams had convincing wins.

The ADF men batted first in their match and, after a shaky start, chalked up 342 runs. Their bowlers then kept up the pressure and the British managed only 147 runs.

The ADF women started slowly in their innings, but built momentum to fin-ish with 163 runs.

The British looked to be taking the lead in their first 15 overs, but the ADF turned the tide and bowled them over for 134 runs.

Although she’s usually at the top of the batting order, 35SQN’s CPL Ingrid Svilans shone with the ball, taking three

wickets that turned the tide for her team.“Knowing what the British team was

capable of, from their Australian tour last year, we had a pretty good idea of what we needed to do to beat them,” she said.

“It was great to get an opportunity to bowl and to be able to change the momentum of the game. Helping to win the game was really exciting.

“Off the field, I think one of the most interesting things about the tour was our trip to HMS Victory. It was very enlight-ening and quite interesting.”

CO of the Combined Services Tour LTCOL James Brownlie said the teams achieved their objectives.

“I’m ecstatic with the successes we enjoyed on the tour,” he said.

“The focus and dedication shown by all contingent members really showed throughout the games,” he said.

“Being granted the privilege for our women’s team to play their final on Burton Court at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, and the men’s team to compete on the holy grail of Lord’s, was an hon-our entirely appreciated by us all.”

The men won six of eight games, with one loss to the British Army team and one washout.

The women won five of nine games, including all against the British service teams and the British Combined Services team.

CPL Bill Solomou

ADF men’s and women’s hockey players walked away with an impressive tally of achievements from the Australian Country Championships in Darwin in late July.

The men won a silver medal, the women finished in the top four, six players were selected in the national team and, to top it off, two ADF members were named as players of the tournament.

The event is Hockey Australia’s biggest annual country-based hock-ey event and the ADF was invited to compete against Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, NSW, Queensland and Northern Territory.

Both the men’s and women’s teams played off for medals.

Losing one game in the pool matches and drawing with Queensland, the ADF men earned a place in the play-off for gold for the first time since 2007.

Their opponent in the final was NSW, which had not lost a game in four years.

In a tight final, the ADF team was outplayed by NSW in the first half, as it went into the break with a

3-1 lead. The second half was more even, but ADF failed to score, los-ing 4-1.

ACW Ashleigh Doble, of 22SQN, said the game was played fast and rough, and at a high level.

“The play-off match was at 2pm and it was roughly 32 degrees. We gave it everything, and we had our chances to score but just missed out on the bronze,” she said.

FLGOFF Nicholas Hill, from 452SQN was named men’s player of

the tournament. The women came up against Victoria for the bronze medal, losing 1-0 in a hard-fought game.

CPL Amy Smith, from HQ 1 Division, was named women’s player of the tournament.

Men’s team manager WO William McConnell said the overall results were impressive, considering ADF players were chosen from a smaller pool.

Dominating the old enemyAustralian Defence cricketers claim ‘The Other Ashes’ series

ADF strong on the pitch

FLGOFF Nicholas Hill, from 452SQN at RAAF Base Darwin, during the Australian Country Hockey Championships. Photo: LS James Whittle

Bowler FLTLT Jarrod Moxey keeps the British batsmen

guessing.

AIR Force PTI SGT Cassandra Fien has backed up last year’s Sydney City2Surf women’s title, taking out the division for a second consecutive year.

SGT Fien held off all competitors on August 14 with a time of 47.29min. She said it was great to defend her title and come home with a win again this year.

“There was certainly a bit of pres-sure to back up last year’s win, with just missing out on the Rio Olympics I was stoked to be able to win the City2Surf,” she said.

“It is one of the most iconic races in Australia so it was amazing to be able to be part of it again.”

About 80,000 people ran, jogged or walked the 14km route from Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach, including nine members of the ADF Adaptive Sports Program and members from the ADF Running and Athletic Association.

ADF Adaptive Sports athlete WO2

Neil Markie didn’t specifically train for the event, but running has been an essential part of his rehabilitation pro-gram.

“Running has played a key role in my recovery. I have been running every day and am looking to participate in a marathon next year,” he said.

CA LTGEN Angus Campbell, who ran alongside the military contingent, said the event offered an opportunity for ADF personnel to embrace fitness, reha-bilitation and look towards their future.

“Getting outside, getting involved and being active is profoundly beneficial to one’s positive frame of mind, belief in self, possibility and next steps in life,” he said.

“I’m a huge fan of people getting out and staying fit and healthy through being active and, no matter what their circumstances, finding ways to be part of a community.

Victory second year running

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trained to fight. DefenceCare helps them with these battles.

To give $5, please text ‘CARE’ to 1990 1111. fightingnewenemies.com.auJames DallasAustralian VeteranClaims Manager, DefenceCare

Peter Hartung German WW2 Veteran

SP RT Aussies take on

the British

ADF teams impress at country championships

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August 25, 2016

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FAST ‘N’ FURIOUS

CPL Shelby Thorneycroft, of 34SQN, strikes the ball at the Australian Country Championships, Marrara Hockey Complex, Darwin. Photo: LS James Whittle