final power play: a 6sqn f-111 is readied for a mission ... · and jaimie abbott 11sqn crews were...

AIR FVol. 52, No. 14, August 5, 2010 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

RCERCE010 T

F-111s mark their territory for the last time in Air

Force’s premier air combat exercise

EXERCISE PITCH BLACK SPECIAL EDITION

P10-17

All the action:

FINAL POWER PLAY: A 6SQN F-111 is

readied for a mission during Exercise Pitch Black 2010 at RAAF

Base Darwin. Four of the iconic aircraft are

participating in their last major exercise prior to

the fleet’s retirement later this year. See the

story on 3. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

2 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FNews

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LCDR Fenn Kemp and Jaimie Abbott

11SQN crews were given plenty of one-on-one time with the Royal Australian Navy during Rim of the Pacific (Rimpac) 2010 which culminated in the firing of a Har-poon missile off the coast of Ha-waii.

The exercise has now wrapped up, and the 92WG personnel have returned home to RAAF Base Edinburgh.

Two AP-3Cs were deployed to Rimpac 10, which is the largest maritime exercise in the world. It is a major United States Commander Third Fleet-sponsored biennial combined exercise. It involved forces from Australia, Canada, Chile, France, India, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore, Thailand, Britain, the US and Republic of Korea. This year marks the 22nd Rimpac exercise.

Based at Kaneohe Bay on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, more than 90 Edinburgh-based person-nel were among a total of 1200 from the ADF participating in Rimpac.

The AP-3C crews earned high praise from the Commander, Australia National Command Element, CDRE Stuart Mayer.

“The highlight for the RAAF was the firing of a Harpoon mis-sile,” CDRE Mayer said.

11SQN member s spen t long hours preparing for the MISSILEX, along with exercise planners and personnel from the Navy’s Anzac Class frigate HMAS Warramunga.

CO 11SQN WGCDR Phillip Champion said the execution of the Harpoon missile was flawless.

“It came off the wing, skidded along the surface and popped up to hit the target, which was the former amphibious carrier USS New Orleans. It was a great event for us from a coordination point of view with Warramunga and from a high-end warfare fighting perspective,” WGCDR Champion said.

“We got the chance to prac-tise our crew and heighten aware-ness by carrying a live weapon as well.”

The AP-3C missions during Rimpac also included Undersea War fa re , Sur face War fa re

and Mari t ime Intel l igence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance.

During the Schedule of Events phase, the crews completed 11 out of 12 flights. They also man-aged to notch up about 90 per cent of their anti-submarine war-fare contact time.

WGCDR Champion said the team could be very proud of their efforts.

“Our work was integrated into a combined air, surface and sub-surface environment and every-one contributes to that end game. For any weapon to impact the tar-get, on time, there’s a lot of mov-ing parts,” he said.

“We’re currently doing a lot of tasking in the Middle East but that’s all over land. We are also involved in Operation Resolute to our north. But Rimpac has provided us with the opportunity to practise high-end war fight-ing skills in anti-submarine war-fare and anti surface unit warfare. It’s great to be working with the Navy again.”

CDRE Mayer said coopera-tion by the RAAF and Navy was critical to the outcome.

CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Left, the onboard camera of an 11SQN AP-3C snaps an allied submarine during an Anti-Submarine Warfare evolution during Rimpac 2010 off Hawaii. Below, SGT Brock Smith’s reflection is captured in the Orion’s Star Safire Forward Looking Infrared camera during a pre-flight inspection of the aircraft. The high-tech camera is used to look for objects in the water, such as submarines. Below photo: ABIS Evan Murphy

Orions playOrions play vital roles

TEAM LAUDED: One of the 11SQN AP-3Cs land at Marine Corps Base Kaneohe, Hawaii. Photo: LEUT Kellie Lunt

Showing the way at Rimpac

HANDLED WITH CARE: Members of 92WG prepare an air launched Harpoon Missile at the Marine Corps Base ahead of a MISSILEX. Photo: WO Darren Gray

3 NewsAugust 5, 2010RCEAIR FF

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Searching Solomons

LOOKING OUT: FLTLT Brendan Quaife pilots the C-130J while FLTLT Shaun Wilkinson maintains a visual watch during the search for a missing banana boat in the Solomon Islands. Photos: ABIS Jo Dilorenzo

EYES PEELED: Loadmaster SGT Paul Ross maintains the search for the missing boat.

Andrew Stackpool

AIR FORCE has again lent its expertise to help people in distress when a 37SQN Hercules flew to the Solomon Islands to assist in search and rescue efforts after local authorities received a distress call from a small vessel on July 20.

A local 7m inter-island ‘banana boat’ with three people on board transmit-ted a distress message and, after a local search that failed to locate the boat, search and rescue authorities in Honiara contacted the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) on July 22, request-ing Australian assistance.

AMSA’s Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) then contacted Defence and the aircraft was tasked that afternoon.

Aircraft captain FLTLT Shaun Wilkinson and his crew were warned out shortly afterwards and while 37SQN ground crew prepared the air-craft, the Air Mobility Control Centre, 325 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron and 84WG were approached to provide the six observers who would accompany the aircrew and assist with lookout duties on a rotational basis.

The aircraft departed for Honiara at 3am on Friday morning and carried Air Sea Rescue Kits which can be dropped to survivors. The kits comprise rations, first aid kits, survival manuals, fire light-ing equipment, signal equipment, sea dye markers, water and inflatable din-ghies.

“We arrived at Honiara and got a final briefing before departing for the search area about lunchtime,” FLTLT Wilkinson said.

The Hercules arrived in the search area, about 300 nautical miles east of Honiara, about an hour later.

After six hours on-task, the C-130 returned to Honiara and remained there overnight.

“We sighted six vessels in the area and on a couple of occasions thought we may have sighted it but they proved to be debris; tree trunks and the like,” FLTLT Wilkinson said.

The Hercules resumed the search next morning but after a 10-hour search had found no traces of the missing ves-sel.

“We were in HF communications with the RCC and early in the even-ing they informed us that there was no further requirement for us,” FLTLT Wilkinson said.

“We returned to Honiara to refuel and were retasked to Townsville for a mission to PNG the following day. So, after refuelling, we flew to Townsville; it was a long day.”

“It’s always good to get called out on a real mission rather than a training one,” he said. “It is just unfortunate we didn’t get a better result.”

At time of going to print, on the morning of July 28, a second C-130 flew to Honiara to resume the search after authorities received a further distress call from the missing boat and sought assistance again.

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LT Jesse Platz

THE last of 250 Australian and Brit-ish WWI soldiers recovered from a mass grave at Pheasant Wood have been re-interred with full military honours in Fromelles, France.

It comes 94 years after the soldiers were killed in the Battle of Fromelles, the costliest in Australian military history with 5533 soldiers either killed, wound-ed, taken prisoner or missing in just 24 hours.

Streets of the quaint town of Fromelles were cordoned off as the formal procession made its way toward the picturesque new Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery.

A lone coffin, carried on a horse-drawn general-service wagon was led by an honour guard and bear-er party comprised of Australia’s Federation Guard, and Britain’s 4th Battalion the Rifles and the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

The unknown soldier was marched through the cemetery as onlookers from across the globe shared tears and sighs of both mourning and relief. And, as he was lowered into the earth amid fields of corn, in the shadow of the village church, the last of the lost

AB Melanie Schinkel

A TEAM of Defence and APS per-sonnel is on track to eradicate as-bestos from Defence’s inventory.

The Asbestos Inventory Tiger Team (AITT) is scheduled to com-plete inspections of all regular and reserve ADF units by December and the remaining cadet and muse-um units by June.

Established in January last year, the AITT was created to identify asbestos-containing mate-riel (ACM) in ADF inventory items and expedite its eradication from Defence stock holdings.

AITT Deputy Project Director CAPT Alan Johnston said the AITT improved workplace safety for Defence employees exceeded, Occupational Health and Safety legislation, but help was needed

from ADF members to raise the level of awareness of asbestos within their workplaces.

“Since January 2004, it has been illegal to install or reinstall ACM in plant or equipment used in workplaces in Australia,” CAPT Johnston said.

“Defence members can assist the AITT by making themselves and their workmates aware of the potential dangers of asbestos, and the different states in which it can exist bonded or friable.

“It is important to know that bonded asbestos materiel reduces the risk of asbestos fibres becom-ing airborne, while friable asbestos materiel is more hazardous because asbestos fibres may be released into the atmosphere when the materiel is subjected to minimal pressure.”

ACM items commonly found within Defence workplaces include

gaskets, lining material, washers, seals, clamps, pumps, temperature cables, brake pads, clutch pads, carburettors, insulating shields, old flammable liquid storage cabinets and cylinder linings.

CAPT Johnston acknowledged the efforts of ADF units, Defence Materiel Organisation and joint logistics units who, together with the AITT, have eradicated over 35,000 asbestos-containing items.

He said members suspecting asbestos inventory items in their workplace were encouraged to check their local workplace asbes-tos register and the asbestos-mate-riel list on the AITT website.

For further information on asbestos within Defence or to review Defence’s asbestos policies, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/dmoweb/sites/AITT or phone (02) 6265 6252.

Voting arrangements PERSONNEL on deployment overseas are required to vote in the federal election. Subject to operation-al considerations and constraints, the ADF will be operating polling booths in key locations overseas in the early voting period and on polling day. Defence members and civilians overseas or unable to attend an early voting centre can apply for a postal vote. Defence personnel already registered as a federal general postal voter will automatically be sent ballot material for the election. Applications for a postal vote should be received by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) by 6pm on Tuesday, August 17. Applicants that require ballot papers to be posted to an address within Australia, must be received by 6pm (local time) on August 19. In order to be counted, votes must be posted on or before polling day. Further information can be found on the AEC website www.aec.gov.au or call 13 23 26.

Medal submissions

IN BRIEF

AN INQUIRY into unresolved recognition for Air Force per-sonnel who served in Ubon has been announced with Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal seeking submissions from interested person-nel. The tribunal will con-sider awarding the Vietnam Logistic Support Medal to those members who served at the Royal Thai Air Force Base, Ubon, between June 25, 1965 and August 31, 1968. Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support Mike Kelly said he would be pleased to have this matter resolved. “Many people have written to me concerning this issue and I would encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity and make a submission to the tri-bunal,” Dr Kelly said. Submissions close on August 30. Details can be found at www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au

Black box inventor dies DEFENCE and scientific communities mourned the death of David Warren – inventor of the ‘black box’ flight data recorder – in July. Born in 1925 at a remote mission station in north-east Australia, Dr Warren served as principal research scientist at the Defence Science and Technology Organisation’s Aeronautical Research Laboratories in Melbourne, from 1952-1983. He was involved in the accident investigation following the mysterious crash of the world’s first jet airliner in 1953. He subsequently advocated the use of a cockpit voice recorder as a useful tool for aircraft accident investigators, and constructed a prototype in 1956 – predecessor of the ubiquitous ‘black box’ of today. Dr Warren’s flight data recorder has made an invaluable contribu-tion to safety in world aviation over the years and, in recognition of his work, he was appointed an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2002 for service to the aviation industry. In November 2008, Qantas named a new Airbus A380 aircraft in his honour.

Big progress on asbestos

THE FINAL ACT: The bearer party carries the coffin of the 250th soldier into the military cemetery, 94 years after the soldiers were killed in the Battle of Fromelles. Photo: SGT Neil Ruskin

Fromelles: laid to restdiggers of Fromelles was laid to rest, finally at peace.

Charles Prince of Wales, Camilla Duchess of Cornwall, Governor-General of Australia Quentin Bryce, CA LTGEN Ken Gillespie, military and commu-nity dignitaries, relatives of the deceased and thousands of fam-ily and well-wishers attended the event.

The reburial ceremony marked the official opening and dedica-

tion of the new cemetery, the first full cemetery the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has con-structed in more than 50 years.

Ms Bryce said i t would become a place of resolution and peace for these men.

“A near century of question-ing and not knowing, of loving hearts unrequited, generations of absence, lives extinguished with-out explanation, missing without proper account – now, each and

every one of them gently, expertly, reverently cradled and carried from where they were last thrust, side by side, already fallen, more than nine decades ago, to a new resting place,” she said.

Of the men recovered, 205 have been identified as Australian, three served with the British army and 42 are still classified as unknown, with many headstones still read-ing “A soldier of the Great War. Known unto God.”

REMEMBERED: Flowers and tributes surround the tombstones of the soldiers who have been re-buried in the Fromelles Military Cemetery.

Photo: SGT Rob Nyffenegger


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Jaimie Abbott

GROUND-BASED air combat officers (ACOs) have been ‘controlling the fight’ during Exercise Pitch Black 2010 using a new system for the Air Force.

Operational testing of the Project Air 5333 (Vigilare) system is being conduct-ed at the Northern Region Operations Centre (NORTHROC) at RAAF Base Tindal.

Vigilare could be compared to Utopia for those in air surveillance and air battle management. It will eventually produce a comprehensive picture of the skies above and around Australia, ena-bling a faster response to possible future incursions into the country’s airspace, and maritime waters.

The command-and-control capabil-ity enables communication between a large number of ground, air, space and sea assets. It will exchange informa-tion from the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN), Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft, civil and military microwave radars, fight-er and maritime patrol aircraft, Royal Australian Navy air warfare-capable ships and various intelligence sources.

“Once we accept the capabil-ity, it will change the face of air bat-tle management for us,” Commander Surveillance and Response Group AIRCDRE Jim Brown said.

“We will also use the system for air battle management training, and surveil-lance missions.”

It’s been a long honeymoon peri-od for Boeing Defence Australia with Vigilare experiencing its fair share of delays over the past decade. Following initial acceptance, the company will begin installing and testing the capabil-ity at the Eastern Regional Operations Centre (EASTROC) at RAAF Base Williamtown later this year.

Executive Officer of 3 Control and Reporting Unit (3CRU) SQNLDR Jason Burstow said that Vigilare would enable much more in regards to radio and com-munications management.

During Exercise Pitch Black, the ACOs have been using tactical data feeds to communicate with pilots play-ing in both the blue and red forces so they know when to strike in the fictitious war game.

The data inside the Tactical Control Centre at NORTHROC is generated from a reporting post set up 300km from Katherine at a place called Timber Creek. A TPS-77 radar provides an accurate picture of aircraft above its horizon spanning 250 nautical miles across the Northern Territory skies.

T i m b e r C r e e k D e t a c h m e n t

Pioneering Vigilare

Commander FLGOFF Aaron Thorpe said: “We are pretty much on the high-est mountain around out here, so it gives us great radar coverage down to low altitudes.”

Personnel from 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114 MCRU) have slept in tents during Pitch Black to ensure the radar can provide coverage of the airspace.

“The radar site this year is a lot more important than in previous years due to the implementation of Vigilare,” FLGOFF Thorpe said.

41WG is now running a rotation program, where personnel are posted to Tindal for a couple of months at a time, to conduct operations at NORTHROC as Vigilare is rolled out in the future.

Exercise Pitch Black special, Pages 10-17

‘We are pretty much on the highest mountain around out here, so it gives us great radar cov-erage down to low altitudes.

– FLGOFF Aaron Thorpe

EXCITED: Detachment Commander FLGOFF Aaron Thorpe in front of the camp at Timber Creek. Inset, communication electronics technician AC Aleks Stocki at work.

Photos: LACW Jessica Smith

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Andrew Stackpool

A MAJOR change to the manage-ment of airfield and supporting air base operations occurred on July 1 when Air Force’s reserve squadrons around Australia were restructured.

Under the restructure, they assumed responsibility for managing the airfield and supporting air base operations by integrating with the rel-evant on-base Combat Support Units (CSU) and expeditionary support squadrons (ECSS) as well as main-taining their reserve training activities.

Under the same initiative, two his-toric WWII squadrons were reformed when 30SQN stood up at RAAF Base East Sale and 31SQN stood up at RAAF Base Wagga on July 29; those bases did not have attached reserve squadrons (see opposite page).

The CSUs are subsumed while some of the ECSSs will concentrate solely on expeditionary airbase sup-port aspects. The CSUs and other ECSSs have been disbanded.

Also under the changes, the new squadrons will be reassigned from Air Force Training Group to Combat Support Group (CSG).

The changes are an important out-come from the major restructure of CSG announced by CAF AIRMSHL

Mark Binskin. Under the changes, the PAF COs of the CSUs assumed command of the new squadrons while the former reserves COs assumed command of the training flights.

However, with 23 and 26SQNs, the Air Base Executive Officers have assumed command.

Also at RAAF Bases Tindal, Pearce and Townsville, the COs of 325ECSS and 25 and 27SQNs will assume the responsibilities of the Senior ADF Officer.

AIRMSHL Binskin said the review of CSG to ensure that it was best organised to provide both fixed air base and expeditionary support for Air Force was an ideal oppor-tunity, as part of his One Team approach, to enhance the capability contribution, relevance and profile of the reserve squadrons.

“Our Air Force reservists will now have an increased opportunity to contribute to operational capability in our modern and future Air Force,” AIRMSHL Binskin said.

The only base where there will be no change will be at RAAF Base Tindal where 322ECSS will continue to manage airfield and support-base operations.

The phase-in is to occur over the 2010-2011 timeframe.

TWO generations of Air Force COs came together when No. 25 (City of Perth) Squadron assumed responsibili-ties for airfield administration and man-agement and air base operational sup-port from Combat Support Unit (CSU) Pearce in addition to its reserves training functions on July 1.

CSU Pearce was then disbanded.In what is possibly an unprecedented

event, the CO of CSU Pearce, WGCDR Russell Page, became CO 25SQN and, by so doing, followed in the footsteps of his father, SQNLDR Kevin Page (ret’d), who commanded the squadron from 1973 to 1978. Both officers are from Western Australia and both were navigators.

25SQN’s previous CO, SQNLDR Alan Plummer, will assume command of the training flight.

A ceremonial parade to formally rec-ognise the establishment of the restruc-tured squadron and farewell the CSU was held on July 16.

CAF was the reviewing officer.WGCDR Page said he was very proud. “He often speaks of 25SQN with

great admiration and a glint in his eyes as he reflects on the great achievements the squadron made under his leadership, including being awarded Freedom of the

Over to Over to youyounow

MAKING CHANGES

�� 30 and 31SQNs stood up at RAAF Bases East Sale and Wagga and become part of CSG.

�� 13SQN amal-gamated with 321ECSS at RAAF Base Darwin; 321ECSS disbanded.

�� 21SQN integrated with CSU RAAF Williams; CSU Wil-liams disbanded.

�� 22SQN amal-gamated with 325ECSS at RAAF Base Rich-mond; 325ECSS disbanded.

�� 23SQN amal-gamated with 382ECSS; 382ECSS dis-banded.

�� 24SQN amal-gamated with CSU Edinburgh; CSU Edinburgh disbanded.

�� 25SQN amalgam-ated with CSU Pearce; CSU Pearce disbanded.

�� 26SQN to receive some resources from 381ECSS; 381ECSS to focus on expeditionary functions.

�� 27SQN amalgam-ated with CSU Townsville; CSU Townsville dis-banded.

�� 28SQN transferred to CSG but retain-ing present roles.

�� 29SQN trans-ferred to CSG but retaining its current roles.

A NEW ERA BEGINS: CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin reviews the 24SQN parade at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Photo: LAC Glen McCarthy

Following in father’s footsteps at 25SQN

LIKE FATHER LIKE SON: SQNLDR Kevin Page (ret’d) and his son WGCDR Russell Page.

City of Perth, and the camaraderie and escapades of those he felt privileged to command,” he said.

“My ambition now is to continue the unit’s strong traditions developed since it first stood up in 1939 and to realise the benefits of melding the Australian Public Service and Reserve and Permanent Air Force elements of both units into a force for the future Air Force.”

Restructured reserve squadrons

AT THE READY: Members perform a General Salute during the 22SQN and 325ECSS integration parade at RAAF Base Richmond. Photo: AC Christopher Hall

FINEST: Reviewing Officer ACAUST AVM Skidmore and members of the reviewing party inspect the escort party at the 23SQN and 382ECSS integration parade at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: LACW Kylie Gibson

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THREE veterans from an illustrious Beaufighter squadron were among the VIPs who joined Air Force personnel at RAAF Base

East Sale to celebrate the reforma-tion of 30SQN on July 1.

Arthur Thomson, Alec Jenkins and Michael Gleeson were joined by David Redfern, son of former pilot Neal Redfern.

The men travelled from across Victoria to attend the parade.

Mr Gleeson, a determined 86-year-old, drove five hours from Euroa and brought with him the 30SQN Association banner, which was displayed at the rear of the parade ground.

The squadron is formally designat-ed No. 30 (City of Sale) Squadron and is commanded by WGCDR Sharyn Bolitho.

ACAUST AVM Mark Skidmore, the reviewing officer, welcomed the veterans and then acknowledged the “tremendous rapport” Air Force enjoyed with the East Sale commu-nity.

“No. 30 Squadron has been reformed in the restructure of Combat

Support Group, which will enable Air Force to provide a more efficient, focused and capable service in expe-ditionary and fixed air base support for operations,” he said.

“East Sale did not have a reserve squadron to merge with so this restructure has allowed me the privi-lege of reforming 30SQN to subsume the current roles and responsibilities for air base support here.

“30SQN has a very proud and dis-tinguished history, and it is fitting the name and tradition should live on at East Sale.”

From January next year, 30SQN would also provide specialist per-sonnel administration for Air Force Reserves in the East Sale region.

“The squadron will generate a greater sense of belonging among reserve members and there has already been significant interest in

joining 30SQN as a reserve member. “I am extremely proud that Sale will now have its own Air Force squad-ron. Our men and women can also now have that pride and sense of belonging that comes with associa-tion with a former WW II squadron, by being members of No. 30 (City of Sale) Squadron.”

With the formal proceedings completed, the new squadron enter-tained its guests to a lunch at which WGCDR Bolitho made presenta-tions to the mayor and CEO of the Wellington Council and the attending veterans.

To add to the occasion, the original 30SQN Honour Board and approved squadron badge were displayed, along with a display of WWII photographs and the new squadron cap and DPCU patch.

During the lunch, Mr Thomson, a

retired SQNLDR, provided an insight into the harrowing times they experi-enced flying the ‘Whispering Death’ as the Beaufighter became known by the Japanese.

He made specific mention of the efforts of their ground crew, to ensure that their aircraft got off the ground and that they were always waiting on the tarmac to make sure they returned.

SQNLDR Thomson was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service when on October 12, 1943 he led an attack on Rabaul, where, “in spite of fierce opposition from

enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire, he pressed home his attack with the utmost skill and determination”.

Former ground crew member Michael Gleeson followed on by recounting tales of watching aircraft take off from Milne Bay, with 15 inches of water on the metal matting around their feet.

A bonus from the parade was that Mr Thomson, and Alec Jenkins, a motor mechanic and refueller, had not seen each other since they left Papua New Guinea. They sat for at least an hour after the festivities were over, reliving old times.

Return to to

30SQNSPECIAL GUESTS: 30SQN veterans Michael Gleeson, Arthur Thomson and Alec Jenkins. Photos: LAC Terry Hartin

eer. illl

Under the CSG reformation, another illustrious Beaufighter squadron, 31SQN, was reformed at RAAF Base Wagga on July 29 as part of the base’s 70th Anniversary celebrations. There will be full coverage of the two events in the next edi-tion of Air Force News.

31SQN stands up, too

SWEET: 30SQN’s newest member, AC Samantha Cadzow, joins the oldest member, Mr Arthur Thomson, to cut the ceremonial cake at the squadron reformation.

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“REALISING the Air Force we need to be in the future is a mara-thon, not a sprint.”

Those are the words of Director General Strategy and Plans – Air Force AIRCDRE Mike Bennett following the finalisation of the Whole of Air Force Capability Management Review.

Air Force, along with renowned national and international firm KPMG, undertook the review from February to June this year, result-ing in the development of a new Air Force Plan.

AIRCDRE Bennett said the old Air Force Plan 2007-17 was based around the Rebalance and Reshape strategy.

“We acknowledged that there were too many attempts to improve too many areas at one time,” he said. “And of course SRP has come along, with more change programs overlaid.”

Last year, Air Force recognised that some fresh commercial eyes were needed to help improve what is now called our ‘business focus’ – that is where KPMG came in.

The plan identified a new Vision and Mission and new Strategy Statement.

There are also seven business-orientated improvement programs that Air Force needs to focus on in the next three to five years.

“While our reputation on opera-tions is second to none, the plan acknowledges that our greatest areas for improvement are in the business domain,” AIRCDRE Bennett said.

“This plan addresses aspects of Air Force business which we haven’t done so well in the past.”

He said successful implementa-tion of the seven improvement pro-

Seven improvement programs

New Air Force Vision to be realised

� Build an understanding of Air Force’s strategic direction, mission and vision and drive alignment across the organisa-tion and with all stakeholders.

� Implement an organisational design supported by a process, reporting and accountability framework that promotes effec-

tive management.� Improve resource management

and cost conscious decision making.

� Review and improve Air Force’s capability management processes.

� Implement improvements to information and knowledge

systems against an agreed set of priorities.

� Review the training and educa-tion systems to improve the delivery of knowledge, skills and attitudes.

� Enhance the Service Provider Group performance manage-ment framework.

Heading in Heading in the right the right directiondirection

AIR FORCE VISIONAir Force: One Team – swift, decisive, resilient and respected.Key characteristics of our Vision: SWIFT� Responsive� Agile DECISIVE � Good information, quality deci-

sions � Timely� ConsistentRESILIENT � Able to deal with adversity � Competent � There for the long haul� Productive working relationshipsRESPECTED � Influential � Dependable � Trusted � Professional

AIR FORCE MISSIONBuilt on the proud history and tradi-tions of the Australian Flying Corps and the Royal Australian Air Force, we will fight and win by generating integrated kinetic and non-kinetic air and space effects across the sea, land, air, space and cyber operating domains.

Air Force provides immediate and responsive military options across the spectrum of operations as part of a Whole of Government joint or coali-tion response, either from Australia or deployed overseas. We do this through the key air power roles – con-trol of the air; precision strike; intel-ligence, surveillance and reconnais-sance; and air mobility – enabled by combat and operational support.

We exploit the air power charac-teristics of persistent and precision effect, flexibility, perspective, reach, penetration, versatility and respon-siveness.

We are leaders in: command and control of air and space operations; intelligence, surveillance and recon-naissance; and targeting.

Our trusted and respected lead-ership and professional mastery of air power is a product of attracting, training, educating and rewarding Australia’s best people.

We are the leaders for strategic, operational, tactical, technical and logistic management of Australia’s military aviation capability.

Through efficient management of Air Force operations and business, we will continue to provide responsive military options to the Government of Australia for the defence of Australia and her interests.

OUR STORY IN ALL ITS GLORY

Fast facts

� A new Air Force Plan is the result of the Whole of Air Force Capability Management Review undertaken in strategic partnership with KPMG. It includes: a new Vision and Mission and new Air Force Strategy Statement, and seven improvement programs that Air Force needs to focus on in the next three to five years.

� Realising the Vision, Mission and Strategy for the Air Force will depend on achievement and update of all improvement activities.

CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin

This refreshed direction will guide us to become the Air Force we need to be, as we reform ourselves over the coming years.

‘‘L

over the ears.

grams (listed right) should help to realise the new Air Force Vision.

“Although there has been criti-cism of Air Force plans in the past as merely ‘plans on a shelf’, the new one will develop to embody all three pillars of the Air Force’s improvement strategy,” AIRCDRE Bennett said.

“That is to continue to raise, train, and sustain forces to provide a broad range of options for govern-ment within the available resources, build a more capable force for the future and to do it all in an effective and efficient way.

“To date, our plan has for the most part been focused on what could be referred to as continuous improvement activities.

“It lacked the mechanisms for ensuring accountability. This Air Force Plan is different. Through broad consultation, the seven key and mutually supporting programs have to be implemented if we are to continue to successfully carry out our mission and for our vision to be realised.”

He said the pressures facing Air Force now and into the future drive the need for a well-planned and executed program of strategic level improvement programs. This is why four of the improvement programs are already under way. One of these is the current review into the alloca-tion of roles and responsibilities across the higher headquarters. The aim is to create clarity and reduce duplication, covering any gaps where they exist. This would ensure that reporting lines would be clear from unit-level right up the chain of command, and there would be clarity about where to go to in Air Force to make things happen.

CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin said the Vision needed to be prac-tical and inspirational, easy to remember, and not become irrel-evant over time.

“The challenge for all involved was to develop a Vision which did all these things, and I agree whole-heartedly with that sentiment and am confident this Vision achieves that aim,” AIRMSHL Binskin said.

“This single Vision applies to us all, no matter in what part of Air Force we operate, and I expect all members to drive our efforts towards achieving it.

“In addition to the Vision, the overall Mission of Air Force has been reviewed and updated more as a story than a mission statement. Together, the new Vision-Mission pair will set us apart from other Air Forces and the other services.”

ONE TEAM APPROACH: A new Vision and Mission and Stategy Statement is the result of a Whole of Air Force Capability Management Review. Pictured are Air Force personnel unloading cargo from a C-17 in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan. Photo: SGT Mick Davis


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Crossing the lineLEUT Kara Wansbury

THE LONG-STANDING naval tradi-tion of ‘Crossing the Line’ was a new experience for Air Force reservist SQN-LDR David Cooksley.

SQNLDR Cooksley is currently serving in United States Naval Ship (USNS) Mercy as part of Pacific Partnership 2010 (PP10).

Steeped in maritime folklore, the ceremony involves challenging those who have not crossed the equator on board a ship to prove their worth to Davey Jones and King Neptune in order to receive the esteemed title of ‘Shellback’.

After enduring a three-hour circuit of water obstacles and dyed food, the ‘polly-wog’ SQNLDR Cooksley was awarded his Shellback status by the Royal Court.

“I didn’t have a lot of expectations

for the ceremony itself, except that I hoped it would be fun,” he said.

And it was. “I can’t reveal all that happened, as

such details must remain a secret.“However a few things that really

stood out for me were slithering through slime, laying [in the prone position] and trying to eat breakfast without using my hands, lots of loud singing and, most fun of all, swimming in an ice bath.

“I’m not sure how many Shellbacks there are in the Air Force, but I’m cer-tainly proud to be one.”

Based at RAAF Base Townsville, SQNLDR Cooksley has joined USNS Mercy as part of the second contingent of ADF personnel on PP10.

Working in the 1000-strong multi-national team, he is providing medical assistance as part of a disaster relief exercise in Indonesia and will later trav-el to East Timor with Mercy and her crew.

PROUD SEAFARING TRADITION: SQNLDR David Cooksley, from RAAF Base Townsville, centre, and colleagues are inducted in a ‘Crossing the Line’ ceremony, held aboard USNS Mercy, inset left, as it crossed the equator during Pacific Partnership 2010.

Photos: ABIS Andrew Dakin

PITCH BLACK RCEAIR FF August 5, 201010

FLTLT Skye Smith

WITH a roar of jet engines Exercise Pitch Black 2010 has kicked into high gear as blue force takes on red force in a realistic war game set in the modern battlespace.

Blueland comprises assets based at RAAF Base Darwin, while Redland is operating from RAAF Base Tindal.

The exercise, which started on July 16, is due to end on August 6.

The RAAF is being joined by coa-lition partners from the New Zealand, Thailand and Singapore air forces, as well as elements from the Australian Army.

“Pitch Black is Australia’s premier air combat exercise and aims to test aircrew to the fullest extent,” Officer conducting the exercise, AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld, said.

“The exercise also provides us with the opportunity to enhance interoper-ability with our international partners.”

Playing the good guys in the exercise are RAAF F/A-18s, F-111s, PC-9s and an AP-3C; Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-16s, a E-2C Hawkeye and KC-135 tanker; a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130; and Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) F-16s.

They are taking on 76SQN Mk127 Hawks and 75SQN F/A-18s in a num-ber of battle scenarios aimed at testing high complexity air combat tactics.

Friendly forces are conducting offensive air campaigns against a simulated adversary.

“The blue missions attempt to establish air superiority by targeting the assets of their opponents as they aim to destroy military facilities in a coordinated strike campaign against Redland,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

He said the Hornets are integrated into packages with assets from the Thailand and Singaporean F-16s.

The battle is being fought from the ground, with 4SQN working alongside Army elements to direct aircraft armed with high explosives on to ground targets at Delamere and Bradshaw Air Weapons Ranges.

“The 4SQN forward air control-lers provide a vital link between the aircraft and the ground troops, pro-viding up-to-date information on the battlespace from a forward position,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

“This can be done either on the ground or airborne. 4SQN is also pro-viding specialist air-land integration,

Working together on

similar to that conducted on operations in Afghanistan.”

They are being supported dur-ing Pitch Black by Surveillance and Response Group’s air combat officers (air battle managers) and air surveillance operators based at the Northern Region Operations Centre (NORTHROC), Timber Creek and Poll Hill.

This is the first time 41WG ele-ments have operated a reporting post from Poll Hill.

Air battle management is being

achieved by combining radar pictures from a deployed radar, air traffic con-trol radars, reporting posts and data supplied from the visiting RSAF E-2C Hawkeye airborne surveillance and control aircraft.

44WG Detachment Darwin are keeping busy with large numbers of aircraft movements in each wave of exercise missions.

“Joint battlefield airspace control-lers are enabling the large numbers of aircraft flying out of and within the Top End’s airspace to proceed unhin-

dered on their missions,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said. “At times there may be up to 60 aircraft flying in the same mission. Considerable logistical expertise and coordination skills are required to control the heavy traffic flow.”

Augmentees from medical, com-munications, intelligence, logistics and administration streams are playing an important role to help support the exercise.

No. 1 Combat Communications Squadron is providing specialist com-

munications support. These services include support to airfield systems including air traffic control systems and aircraft navigational aids, information systems and information technology equipment and networks in support of airfield operations, and radio and antenna systems for airfield, tactical and landline communications.

Security police are providing protective security, law enforcement and emergency responses. They are being helped by the military working dogs and New Zealand Air Force security augmentees.

FIREPOWER: Above, an F/A-18 flies into RAAF Base Darwin, while right, another Hornet taxies out for a mission as a Qantas jet prepares to take off from Darwin International Airport. Photos: LAC Glynn Jones and SGT Rob Mitchell

PRESS CLUB: Above, officer conducting the exercise, AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld, speaks with the local Northern Territory media during a press conference for the launch of Exercise Pitch Black 2010 at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

PITCH BLACKRCEAIR FF August 5, 2010 11

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THAI AIRLINES: Royal Thailand Air Force F-16 Falcons line the tarmac ready for action on Exercise Pitch Black 2010. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

NOTHING LEFT TO CHANCE: 3SQN aircraft structural fitter LAC Tom Gower conducts pre-flight checks on an F/A-18 before an exercise mission. Photo: SGT Rob Mitchell

FLY AWAY: Above, an F-111 takes off for another mission out of RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: SGT Rob Mitchell MAINTAINING THE AIR PICTURE: Right, Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3 Orion navigator FLTLT Justin Young is flanked by RAAF personnel, FLTLT Rebecca Carpenter, left, and SGT Stephen McKenzie, at the Joint Interface Control Cell at RAAF Base Tindal, where personnel plan and manage data links to support Pitch Black. Photo: LACW Jessica Smith

NfitF/


FLTLT Skye Smith

DURING a mission on Exercise Pitch Black 2010, CO 3SQN WGCDR Terry van Haren became only the second RAAF pilot to achieve 3000 hours flying the F/A-18.

OC 81WG GPCAPT Gavin Turnbull and 3SQN aircrew gathered at the Ordnance Loading Area at RAAF Base Darwin to congratulate WGCDR van Haren after his success-ful sortie.

Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld was the first to achieve the rare milestone and recalled the time when he first flew with a young FLGOFF van Haren.

“Today we celebrate this sig-nificant and important milestone,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

“This is a spectacular achievement and I congratulate you. We may not see this achievement in the future as we move to more simulation train-ing, which makes this milestone even more special.

Hornet Hornet pilot pilot clocks clocks up 3000up 3000

“Achieving 3000 hours doesn’t come without a lot of effort, though. There has been a lot of quality and significant input from across Air Force over the years that has con-

tributed to this achievement. It is not only just the green suiters who have contributed, but also the maintenance workforce, to generate 3000 hours of flying capability,” he said.

“Three thousand hours of flying the Hornet equates to 575,000 man hours, $186 million flying and 20 mil-lion litres of fuel. It is also the same number of total hours 3SQN flies in one year.”

WGCDR van Haren said the achievement was the result of a full squadron effort.

“I appreciate the effort from the whole squadron and have enjoyed flying with every pilot at the unit,” he said.

WGCDR van Haren joined the Air Force as a direct entry pilot in February 1986 and graduated from No. 140 pilots’ course in 1987.

After being awarded his wings at 2 Flying Training School, he was posted to 38SQN where he flew Caribous for more than three years.

He completed Hornet opera-tional conversion in 1993 and was posted to 3SQN, followed by a tour

at 75SQN. In 1997, WGCDR van Haren completed Fighter Combat Instructor (FCI) course, instructed at 2 Operational Conversion Unit and was subsequently appointed FCI of 77SQN.

In 2003, he was appointed Executive Officer of 75SQN. He led 75SQN operations during Operation Falconer and was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal for his “exceptional leadership in warlike operations”.

During more than 20 years of flying in the Air Force, he has accumulated more than 5500 fly-ing hours, 3500 of those hours on fast-jets.

“Every hour has been enjoyable,” WGCDR van Haren said. “Every hour has been great, but you are only as good as your last. I’m now look-ing forward to flying that next hour.”

REASON TO BE HAPPY: Left, WGCDR Terry van Haren and members of 3SQN after completing his 3000th hour in an F/A-18 during Exercise Pitch Black 2010. He thanked the squadron for their combined effort. Below, WGCDR van Haren arrives in aircraft A21-14 after reaching his milestone.Photos: CPL Hamish Paterson

Cooking up a stormLAC Craig Sculpher, left, carves up a roast as part of the celebrations for the International Night dinner during Exercise Pitch Black 2010 enjoyed, above, by members of the participating nations. Photos: SGT Rob Mitchell

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FLTLT Skye Smith

AS THE end of the F-111 era draws to a close, the long-range strike air-craft are still flexing their muscles.

Four F-111s from 6SQN are taking part in the three-week exercise.

CO 6SQN WGCDR Micka Gray said Pitch Black was always a signifi-cant event, particularly for the F-111s.

“It is great the F-111s could be a part of it one last time,” he said.

“Pitch Black is invaluable for everyone involved in the exercise. It is great for aircrew, maintenance and support staff alike.

“The multi-lateral cooperation and interoperability with coalition partners is greatly enhanced through Pitch Black.

“The F-111 brings unique capabili-ties to the exercise and is incredibly smooth to maneouvre in the air.

“We can go supersonic at low level flying 100 feet above ground level doing four footy fields a second, which is what it is designed for. We can run in and hit targets at high speed and get back to safety as fast as the aircraft will take us.”

The F-111 can strike day or night in any weather. Its Pave Tack target-ing system can locate targets at night and in bad weather and provides laser designation for laser-guided weapons. The radar warning system detects incoming radar emissions and alerts the crew to potential surface or air attacks.

After 37 years, the iconic F-111s are the longest-current-serving fast-jet in the Air Force fleet.

Pig is Pig is still BIGstill BIG

“The F-111 has been very success-ful for a very long time. 6SQN has a very proud history of operating the jets,” WGCDR Gray said.

“The F-111 was an aircraft ahead of its time. It was one of the first twin-engine swing-wing aircraft and has enormous flexibility for range and endurance.

“It is just a magnificent aircraft and I have immense pride in it.

“It touches you just to be part of the F-111 community whether you are flying it, maintaining it or supporting it. It’s certainly in my blood.”

The F-111 arrived at Amberley in 1973 and 6SQN has now flown the formidable strike jet for nearly four decades.

The F-111 started off life as a strike bomber, but its roles have expanded to include direct support to Army and maritime strike.

“6SQN is proud to be the last squadron to be operating the F-111s in Australia and in the world,” WGCDR

‘ It touches you just to be part of the F-111 com-munity whether you are flying it, maintaining it or supporting it. It’s certainly in my blood.

– WGCDR Micka Gray

PROUD OF F-111s: Above, from left, FLTLTs Daniel Mills, Andrew Kloeden and Jonathon Harrington, and WGCDR Micka Gray return from their aircraft at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

THE END IS NEAR: 6SQN F-111 aircraft taxi at RAAF Base Darwin before taking off during Exercise Pitch Black 2010. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

Gray said. “I am sure the end of 2010 will be an emotional time for many people when we say goodbye to the Pig. But for now we have F-111s to prepare, fly and fight.”

The F-111 remains a vital compo-nent of Australia’s air combat capabil-

ity in concert with the F/A-18 Classic and Super Hornets.

The F-111s will return to Darwin for Exercises Kakadu and Singaroo later this month. The revered aircraft will be duly farewelled from service at the end of the year.

AND TWO MORE: A pair of F-111s taxi at RAAF Base Darwin before another exercise mission. Photo: SGT Murray Staff


INTERNATIONAL TIES: Above, Military Expert 3 Thilagaraj from 111SQN, Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), goes over paperwork with LAC Carol McCauley, of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, as they refuel a RSAF E-2C Hawkeye from a RAAF refuelling truck. Photo: CPL Hamish Paterson CONTROLLING TRAFFIC: Left, joint battlefield airspace controller FLGOFF Adon Lumley from 44WG Detachment communicates with ground crew at RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black 2010. Photo: LACW Jessica Smith

EAGLE EYE: Base Aviation Safety Officer FLTLT Andrew Gibbs has been kept busy ensuring the surface of Darwin International Airport continues to comply with Australia’s high standards of aviation safety during the increased military tempo of Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS: Above, MAJ Aaron Lapp, a USAF exchange pilot with 3SQN, performs pre-flight checks on his F/A-18 before launching a mission, while right, 3SQN’s AC Tim Soldatos inspects the front wheel assembly of a Hornet. Photos: SGT Rob Mitchell

TEAMWORK: CPL Damian Marr, right, a communication and systems information controller from the Royal New Zealand Air Force, gives directions on a radio as LAC Christian Taylor, a communication electronic technician from 1CCS, reads the instructions. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

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FLTLT Skye Smith

PITCH Black 2010 has marked the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s (RSAF) 20th anniversary of participation in the RAAF’s premier air combat training exercise.

The RSAF complement is made up of the second-largest force participating in Pitch Black this year, behind Australia.

Officer conducting the exercise, AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld, said the RSAF’s eight F-16 Falcons, E-2C Hawkeye airborne control aircraft, KC-135 tanker and logistics component are playing a significant part and are helping to test a number of air combat scenarios in realistic war-like conditions.

For the first time, the RSAF deployed live weapons at Delamere and Bradshaw air weapon ranges.

Exercise Pitch Black has been the cornerstone activity of the cooperation and strong friendship that has developed between the Singaporean and Australian Air Forces over the past two decades.

CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin said it was a significant milestone in a shared history between the two air forces which dates back to WWII.

“We have been involved in Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) exercises for 40 years now, and have worked together to provide regional assistance to

SHARING IDEAS: From left, RAAF FLGOFF Shaun Hayles, CAPT Jervis Choo of the Republic of Singapore Air Force and SQNLDR Songsak Thammasarn of the Royal Thailand Air Force talk about the RSAF F-16s.

Photo: CPL Hamish Paterson

STRONG TIES: Two Republic of Singapore Air Force F-16s taxi for a sortie at RAAF Base Darwin. Above inset, RSAF CAF MAJGEN Ng Chee Meng and CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin during the celebration dinner to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the RSAF’s involvement in Exercise Pitch Black. Photos: SGT Murray Staff and LAC Glynn Jones

WORKING TOGETHER: The exercise director for the Republic of Singapore Air Force, COL Tan Yik, discusses the exercise with RAAF aircrew in Darwin. Photo: CPL Hamish Paterson

SingaporeSingapore link continues on

‘‘ Without the RAAF, Singapore would not have been able to grow the RSAF capabilities to what they are today. – MAJGEN Ng Chee Meng

East Timor, anti-piracy operations and, more recently, coopera-tive operations in Afghanistan,” AIRMSHL Binskin said.

“In the future, no matter what the situation, I know we can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our RSAF colleagues if the need arises.”

Australia and Singapore have also taken part in a number of regional bilateral activities, stra-tegic engagement and exchange programs over the years.

RSAF Chief of Air Force MAJGEN Ng Chee Meng said the RAAF and RSAF shared a long history working together since the first FPDA exercise in 1971.

“Without the RAAF, Singapore would not have been

able to grow the RSAF capa-bilities to what they are today,” MAJGEN Ng Chee Meng said.

“Over time we have devel-oped a strong rapport, cama-raderie and understanding of working together as integrated forces. The RSAF treasures the training opportunities, friend-ship and close regional relation-ship with Australia. We are very fortunate to have the RAAF stand next to us in operations.”

RSAF exercise director COL Tan Yik said Pitch Black was always a very special exercise for Singapore to enhance the close working relationship with Australia.

During the three-week exercise, Australia’s F/A-18s and F-111s have been working

alongside the RSAF, the Royal New Zealand Air Force and Royal Thailand Air Force as ‘blue’ air, operating from RAAF Base Darwin.

“As one of the good guys, we are executing offensive air support and offensive counter air operations against a fictitious enemy,” COL Yik said.

“Pitch Black provides very valuable high-end training for the RSAF.

“Our people are able to work well with Australia through the strong rapport built over the last 20 years and we look forward to bringing our Air Force to the next step in future exercises.”

Both the RAAF and RSAF are undergoing major transformations as new capabilities are brought online and air combat is taken to the next level.

The Wedgetail, KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport and Australian Super Hornets are set to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2012.

“These new capabilities will add another dimension to the exercise and bring great value to the training opportunities between the partnering nations,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

3SQN will work together with the RSAF again during the Five Power Defence Arrangement exercise Bersama Padu, in Butterworth, Malaysia, later this year.

16 August 5, 2010 17AAAAAARCEAIR FFPITCH BLACK

FUEL FOR THOUGHT: Left, 3SQN aircraft technician LAC Michael Wheeler refuels an F/A-18 after it returns from a sortie.

LOOK HERE: Right, administrative officer FLGOFF Nerita Lewis directs general hand LAC Peter Katona on work required around RAAF Base Darwin during the exercise.Photos: CPL Hamish Paterson

A JOINT ACT: Two 6SQN F-111s come in to land at RAAF Base Darwin in pair formation after another Exercise Pitch Black mission. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

READY TO FLY: A 3SQN F/A-18 taxies out of the carport and prepares for participation in an afternoon mission on Exercise Pitch Black 2010.

Photo: SGT Rob Mitchell

FULL FRAME: Top, 6SQN aircraft technician LAC Luke Matlock conducts maintenance on an F-111 following a Pitch Black mission. Photo: SGT Rob Mitchell

AT THE READY: Above, an 11SQN AP-3C on the hard stand at RAAF Base Darwin during the exercise. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

DIAGNOSIS: Left, medical assistant CPL Michelle Rubie from 3 Expeditionary Health Squadron Detachment Darwin and LAC Todd Cate, a medical assistant from the Royal New Zealand Air Force, check a patient’s medical documents. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

Centrepiece

CHECK IT OUT: 3SQN aircraft technician CPL Basil Alien checks over an F/A-18 at RAAF Base Darwin.Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

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LAC Aaron Curran

PERSONNEL from 34SQN in Can-berra put on a fabulous show-and-tell day for 31 children from Camp Quality on July 7.

On show was the Prime Minister’s jet and other VIP aircraft run by the squadron.

FLTLT Diane Jackson from the Directorate of Defence Aviation and Air Force Safety (DDAAFS) approached 34SQN with the idea of bringing the children and parents out for a visit.

She said Camp Quality understood that the Air Force was a busy place, but they were quite excited that they were able to come out and have a look at the aircraft.

“They got to see what many peo-ple are unable to see – the Prime Minister’s aircraft,” FLTLT Jackson said.

Squadron administration officer FLTLT Pierre Coetzee said 34SQN was more than happy to help.

“It was the second time that Camp Quality has been here,” he said.

“Although we don’t advertise it widely, we have a soft spot for Camp Quality and what they do for these

children. These kids have all been diagnosed with cancer. Once you see the laughs and smiles on their faces, they really put into focus how impor-tant it is to enjoy every day and live life to the full.”

Camp Quality Administration Manager Veronika Bosnjak said the day was a success.

“The kids just loved it and the Air Force personnel were definitely help-ful and really accessible. It was nice to take the kids there,” she said.

The visit started in the VIP termi-nal where the children and parents met squadron personnel and were each handed Air Force bags full of gifts.

From there they went out to see the Challenger and Boeing Business Jets (BBJs). They were able to sit in the cockpit and the cabins and were given a talk by squadron personnel.

The day ended with a group photo on the stairs of the Prime Minister’s BBJ and a warm farewell in the lounge.

FLTLT Coetzee summed up 34SQN’s feelings at the end of the visit.

“We would like to thank Camp Quality for using us to put a smile on the faces of those kids.”

VIP show VIP show and telland tell

ALL ABOARD: Above, Camp Quality children, parents and 34SQN personnel pose in front of the Boeing Business Jet.TAKE HOME: Left, Tyler Gray-Thompson, 5, receives a gift bag from FLTLT Pierre Coetzee in the VIP lounge.

Photos: LAC Aaron Curran

CAREFUL: Above, Bronte Mollison, 3, leaves the Challenger.UP FRONT: Left, Jack Agnew, 6, his mother Belinda and co-pilot FLGOFF Joel Standley in the cockpit of the Challenger.


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This information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) in deciding whether to acquire Injury & Accident Insurance. You may wish to seek independent advice. Defence Health Injury & Accident Insurance is underwritten by American Home Assurance Company ABN 67 007 483 267 AFSL 230903 incorporated with limited liability in the USA, trading in Australia as Chartis. Defence Health receives remuneration of 13% of premiums you pay to Chartis. The Financial Services Guide and PDS may be obtained by calling the Defence Health Member Service Centre on 1800 335 425 or downloaded from www.defencehealth.com.au

Accidents do happen. To make an injury less painful, take out Defence Health Injury & Accident Insurance.

You’ll be covered 24/7 wherever you are – including on deployment. It’s handy financial back-up until military compensation arrives.

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Try getting protection like that elsewhere! It’s easy to apply online for guaranteed and immediate cover. Visit www.defencehealth.com.au or call 1800 102 994.

FLTLT Skye Smith

AUSTRALIAN Air Force Cadet (AAFC) CSGT Branden Zandstra of 3WG was “ecstatic and sur-prised” when he found out he had won a $50,000 Ford Territory car on Hey Hey It’s Saturday’s Pluck-a-Duck competition recently.

CSGT Zandstra’s mother Paula entered the 18-year-old in the competition, and was amazed and shocked when he won the car.

Supported by 50 other cadets lined up in front of a 3SQN F/A-18, the keys to the winning car were hand-ed over to CSGT Zandstra during a live cross from RAAF Base Williamtown to Channel 9’s Hey Hey It’s Saturday program.

The cadets were at Williamtown on a General Service Training (GST) camp during the mid-year school holidays and enjoyed being a part of the celebrations.

3WG training officer FLTLT (AAFC) Larry Rice said the GST camps were conducted three times a year during the school holidays and were an opportu-nity for the cadets to experience a real base.

“Some highlights for the cadets were definitely the visits to 2SQN, 77SQN and 76SQN flightlines where they could get up close to the different aircraft, and the Hornet simulator,” FLTLT Rice said.

The cadets also visited the air traffic control tower and fire section during their week at Williamtown.

CSGT Zandstra joined the cadets in 2005 when he saw an ad in the paper and thought it might be fun.

He said he had learnt a lot of new skills during his five years as a cadet.

“Being a part of a tight-knit team with lots of new friends is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being in the cadets,” CSGT Zandstra said.

“As a CSGT, I am in charge of a flight [of cadets] and responsible for their welfare while they are under training.

“I’ve learned a lot about leadership skills, but highlights would be learning to fly – power flying and gliding.”

For more information on the cadets, visit www.aafc.org.au

LUCKY WINNER: CSGT Branden Zandstra of 3WG tries his new car for size after receiving the keys during a live cross from RAAF Base Williamtown to Channel 9’s Hey, Hey It’s Saturday program. Photo: courtesy of 3WG

Cadet on a pluckywinner

IF THERE’S one thing that WOFF Grahame Moy is used to it’s change.

After 48 years of service with the Air Force, WOFF Moy is now embrac-ing change in a new form – retirement.

At 65 , WOFF Moy has enjoyed the ride.

“I have enjoyed an exceedingly for-tunate career in the Air Force and have no regrets – and, while one door closes another will open,” WOFF Moy said.

“I already have three job offers. But before anything else, I am looking for-ward to doing a little travel and pursue

my interests in fishing and ballroom dancing.”

WOFF Moy joined the Air Force at 16 in 1962 as an apprentice fitter and worked his way up to become a ground-support equipment manager (GSEMGR).

He worked within this mustering for 38 years and had postings at nearly every RAAF base, including RAAF (now RMAF) Base Butterworth.

It was at Butterworth he met his wife of 30 years, Sadine, and they now have one son, Kim.

WOFF Moy reminisces that at one stage in his career he was known as the “toecutter” as “a number of post-ings were terminated with the closing down of that particular depot or unit. These closures just seemed to follow me around”.

WOFF Moy received the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 1992 for his dedicated service with the Air Force and involvement with No. 2 Stores Depot at Regents Park.

WOFF Moy left the permanent Air Force in 2000 but stayed on as a reservist.

He spent a further eight years at RAAF Base Williamtown with HQ Combat Support Group, reviewing maintenance systems.

His final two years with the RAAF have also been spent at Williamtown with 26SQN, where he took on a new style of role.

“The great thing about the Air Force is that it provides a wealth of opportu-nities, provided you are willing to go and look for them.” he said.

WOFF Grahame Moy retired on June 21.

48 years of service

NO REGRETS: WOFF Grahame Moy.

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20 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FNewsJohn Martin

AFTER 33 years in the Air Force, AIRCDRE Rick Owen says he is go-ing to turn full circle: “I’m going back to being a surf bum.”

AIRCDRE Owen, commandant of the Joint Warfare, Doctrine and Training Centre (JWDTC) at RAAF Base Williamtown, retires on August 16.

“I can honestly say that despite some minor fluctuations in the fun meter, I wouldn’t change a single day of my Air Force career,” he said.

He has plenty of career highlights to dwell on. Some of the many imag-es fixed in his mind include: � his graduation from naviga-

tor course and having his dad [AIRCDRE, retired, Trevor Owen] pin his wings on;

� clocking up 1000 hours in Canberra bombers, the last person in the Air Force to do so;

� the first time flying beyond MACH 1, then the first time beyond MACH 2;

� working and lecturing at the RAF College at Cranwell in the UK;

� commanding the School of Air Navigation;

� shaping the emerging capa-bility that has become the Defence Imagery and Geospatial Organisation;

� working with JQ (AVM John Quaife, retired) as they merged Strike Reconnaissance Group and Tactical Fighter Group into Air Combat Group;

� getting a phone call from ACAUST, then AVM Geoff Shepherd, on the morning of December 27, 2004 to come and

Back to the beach

help at HQ Air Command in coor-dinating the Air Force elements of Tsunami Assist and the follow-on activities;

� being operationally deployed to Baghdad, Iraq in 2005/06; and

� more recently, his involvement in the joint arena in training and education as he took on the chal-lenge of changing the landscape at the ADF Warfare Centre, now the JWDTC.“But, really, if there is an enduring

highlight; it is the men and women I have had the privilege to work with, work for and command,” he said.

“The aircraft and the different jobs are simply opportunities I have had to work among some great people.

“Command is a rare opportunity, to have men and women place their trust in you is extraordinary. Flying

at twice the speed of sound is something, but I have got to say that it pales against the leadership challenges com-mand represents.

“Importantly, across all this the most significant part was Deb, my wonderful and patient wife, and I brought up two fantastic children who have now gone on to be healthy, happy, independ-ent adults, despite the constant moving inherent in an Air Force career of 33 years.”

Before AIRCDRE Owen joined up, he was a self-confessed surf bum. He has fond memories of surfing trips around Australia and Asia immediately before joining.

He might have got a hair cut, but old habits did not die.

He said he never missed a chance to get away surfing while on deploy-ment or posting.

He lives about five minutes away from the beach now and has surfed in Western Australia and up and down the eastern seaboard of mainland Australia and overseas in Hawaii, Florida, Britain, Israel and India. He is an active member of the Williamtown Boardriders Club. At age 54 he com-peted in the recent ADF inter-service titles.

He has post-retirement trips arranged for Borneo, Sumatra and the Maldives – and, guess what? His surf-board is going with him.

“If I were to be honest the other highlight has been the amount of scope I have had to be myself.

“I’d be the first to admit I don’t think I am the conventional Air Force officer, and I am grateful to those with whom I have worked for providing me with enough manoeuvre space to be me, lead in my way and explore what could be unorthodox ways of doing business.”

Williamtown will certainly not for-get him in a hurry.

One of the lecture theatres at the JWDTC has been named the Owen Lecture Theatre – complete with a sign over the door shaped like a surfboard.

SURF’S UP: Vice Chief of the Defence Force LTGEN David Hurley marks AIRCDRE Rick Owen’s retirement with a presentation on behalf of the staff at Joint Warfare, Doctrine and Training Centre in front of the newly-named lecture theatre (see the surfboard-shaped sign); left, AIRCDRE Owen enjoys his favourite pastime.

Main photo: CPL Clint McKay

21NewsAugust 5, 2010RCEAIR FF

Are you a current serving ADF member about to separate from the military? Are you concerned about how this change will affect you and your family? Would you like to learn how to manage this change in your life? If you answered ‘yes’ then the Stepping Out Program is for you!

The Stepping Out Program is a free program for Defence personnel and their partners who are in the process of separating, or have recently separated, from the military. The two-day Stepping Out Program gives you skills and strategies to help you prepare for the social and emotional changes that come with leaving Defence – for you and your family. Take the time to prepare and plan for the future, learn stress management skills and become aware of local support outside of the military.

The Stepping Out Program is a chance to meet others in the same situation and to gain insight into their experiences. In small groups, with an experienced facilitator who understands the challenges facing transitioning military personnel, you can prepare and plan for your next step into civilian life.

The Stepping Out Program is provided by VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Counselling Service and is available across Australia. The Defence Directorate of Transition Support Services has endorsed the program and will give you time out from work to attend. The program has been highly regarded by participants, in particular, one participant commended the program with the following:

“Every discharging ADF person should do this course”.

Register now, call VVCS on 1800 011 046.

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VVCS STEPPING OUT PROGRAM 2010Month Date LocationJuly 6–7 Newcastle

13–14 Townsville

26–27 Brisbane

August 19–20 Nowra

September 2–3 Canberra

7–8 Sydney

14–15 Perth

October 11–12 Adelaide

14–15 Newcastle

November 8–9 Brisbane

15–16 Canberra

15–16 Melbourne

18–19 Darwin

Programs will be delivered according to demand – other dates may be made available, please check with VVCS on 1800 011 046.

Leaving Defence and making the lifestyle change

Safety awards callCategory 1 – Best Workplace Health and Wellbeing Program (new category)

Category 2 – Leadership Award for Injury or Disease Prevention and Management

Category 3 – Best Workplace Health and Safety Management System

Category 4 – Best Solution to an Identified Workplace Health Issue

Category 5 – Best Individual Contribution to Health and Safety

2009 WINNER: SGT David Griffiths.

2009 WINNER: Joe Disario.

Bruce hits heights with honour

C t 1

AWARDS ON OFFER

UP AND AT ’EM: Bruce Hansen, second left, prepares for a rigging task at RAAF Base Darwin with, from left, CPL Kris Inmon, LAC Dylan Johnston and Daniel Tellam. Photo: LAC Scott Woodward

Rebecca Codey

THE work of Bruce Hansen to improve the safety of Air Force rig-gers and other Defence personnel working at height has been recog-nised with a Defence Occupational Health and Safety Award.

Mr Hansen, who is the work-shop manager, ground electronic services with the 44WG Det at RAAF Base Darwin, was announced winner of the Best Individual Contribution to Health

and Safety at the 2010 Defence OHS Awards on June 8 this year.

The award follows his success in the Air Force Safety Awards 2009.

Mr Hansen is a former Air Force communications electronic technician. He said he was pleased this vital safety issue would receive Defence-wide attention.

“I am proud to have received the awards and appreciate the signifi-cant time and effort put in by those within my chain of command who were responsible for my nomina-

tion,” he said. “We have come a long way in improving the safety of riggers.”

Mr Hansen’s extensive knowl-edge and experience has been used to improve official safety policies and procedures for working at heights. His work was published in Australian Air Publications (AAP 7001.065 Section 6 Chapter 9) and led to the establishment of a com-mon suite of equipment used across the Air Force for rigging as well as training procedures supporting its use.

NOMINATIONS are being sought for the 2010 Air Force Safety Awards (AFSA).

The awards are designed to recognise the hard work and dedication of those units and individuals that display an outstanding level of innovation and excellence in safety management across Air Force.

The winners of the 2009 awards – presented in May – were Bruce Hansen, Joe Disario and SGT David Griffiths, who were rewarded for their dedica-tion to safety in the workplace.

Mr Hansen, who is the workshop manager, ground electronic services with the 44WG Det at RAAF Base

ing procedures supporting its use. His advice is regu-larly sought by other ADF units and his commitment has contributed significantly to the establishment of a safety standard for rigging personnel and equipment, not only within 44WG, but the wider ADF commu-nity.

Mr Disario has made the operational maintenance of aircraft loaded with flares significantly safer for those required to handle ordnance in a dangerous state.

He investigated the personal protective equipment (PPE) options available to the ADF aviation commu-nity for the removal and handling of ‘Hung’ (misfired) countermeasures flares. He then identified the risks associated with the various types of PPE and modified the pertinent publications.

SGT Griffiths was new to the role of Unit Safety Adviser (USA) at 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) and lacked background and training in safety when a Directorate of Defence Aviation and Air Force Safety audit highlighted significant deficiencies with the unit’s safety management system.

Nevertheless, he overcame these barriers to pro-duce excellent results in addressing the matters high-lighted by the audit report.

SGT Griffiths’ award nomination said he was an effective advocate of safety during his time at 1RTU and ensured safety was a key consideration when planning and conducting any training activities.

� There are now six categories in the Air Force Safety Awards (AFSA) – see panel above right – following changes made to align with the Defence OHS Awards and the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission Safety Awards.

� The awards are applicable to all Air Force personnel including Defence civil-ians and Australian Air Force Cadets.

� Nominations for these categories are to be submitted to the AFSA selection panel no later than September 30.

� The panel will consider all nominations and select the overall winners/runners-up within each category for CAF endorse-ment. Winners will be entered in the Defence OHS Awards by November 20.

� Winners will be recognised at the official Air Force Awards Night in April or May next year.

� For more information, visit the Air Force intranet homepage and click on the Air Force Awards link or contact FLTLT Wayne Donchi on (02) 6266 4694.

PLAY IT SAFE TO WIN

Darwin, was the win-ner of Best Individual Contribution to Health and Safety.

Mr Disario, a technical officer with the Aircraft Stores Compatibility Engineering Squadron, received the award for best Solution to an Identified Workplace Health Issue.

SGT Griffiths won the award for Best con-tribution by a person with responsibility for OHS as part of their duties.

Mr Hansen’s work led to the establishment of a common suite of equipment that is used across the Air Force for rigging, as well as train-

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22 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FFlightline

BRAVE CHICK: LACW Brenda-May Chick was brave and shaved as part of the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave event at the RAAF Base Tindal Airmen’s Mess on July 9. The medical assistant from 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron raised more than $3000 for the cancer research charity. Photo: LAC Scott Woodward

ME AND MY HORNET: PLTOFF Michael Keightley of 3SQN poses with his F/A-18 during the recent High Sierra exercise at RAAF Base Townsville, where he qualified as a fast-jet pilot. Photo: LAC Craig Barrett

SPECIAL DONATION: Chairman of the RAAF Base East Sale Mess Committee, WOFF Ray Bennell, and local Defcredit branch manager, Alison Lau (right), present a cheque to Vickie Mavros, Coordinator of the Defence Special Needs Support Group, Sale, with funds raised during the recent Sergeants’ Mess All Ranks Dining-In-Night on base. Photo: POIS Rick Prideaux

COMMS AND CAMS: Above, FLGOFF Alex Barbaro is all smiles despite the gloomy weather as he sets out to a new Tactical Air Command Post (TACP) site during the 1 Combat Communications Squadron Tactical Communications course at Singleton Training Area. Left, AC Josh Siviour stays aware of his surroundings while performing a clearing patrol in search of an enemy force which had attacked the (TACP) he was defending. Photos: LAC David Said

23 PersonnelAugust 5, 2010RCEAIR FF

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NameWOFF Arnold SlaterAIRCDRE Richard OwenSQNLDR Donald StebbinsWOFF Garry BridgeWOFF David HiltonWGCDR Stephen BonneyFLTLT Craig EvansSGT Edwin RobinsonSQNLDR Gregory TrottSGT David WiltonWOFF Stephen WakehamWOFF Glen PalmerSGT Lawrence WhiteSGT Mark BakerLAC Allan VandenbroekSQNLDR Iain StewartSGT Randall ScottSGT Ian SinclairFSGT Neville SmithFSGT Derek BrownSGT Alan FurnessSGT Sean Mateer

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August 5: A small jazz ensemble will be perform-ing at ‘Morning Teas and Tunes’ as part of the Yarra Valley’s community show program at the Yarra Valley Country Club from 11am.

August 15: A trumpeter will perform ceremonial duties at the Doncaster RSL’s Vietnam Veterans’ commemorative service at 3pm.

AIR FORCE BAND

SGT Dave Morley

THE lack of a parade and band did not detract from the significance of the Defence Anglicans website launch at RMC Duntroon on July 15.

Bishop Len Eacott, Anglican Bishop to the ADF, said the Defence Anglicans website was a terrific idea because it allowed ADF members to access information in a very popular way.

“It is an avenue of information that needs to be exploited as much as possible,” he said.

Head of People Capability MAJGEN Craig Orme said it was a great initiative and commended it to the Anglican community and families across Defence.

“It’s a great way to build a rela-tionship and provide an informa-tion resource to those who need it, whether they are deployed or serv-ing in Australia,” he said.

D i r ec to r Chap la incy Ai r Command CHAP Kevin Russell said the website aimed to serve ADF members from a Christian point of view.

“It will also inform the wider church what members of the ADF go through and how they can be supported,” he said.

CHAP Russell said members would go to the website for many reasons.

Have your say on improving air movements

Anglicans online

Alan Pinsker

ALL ADF members have been encouraged to take part in one of Defence’s most extensive health and wellbeing studies which was promoted by a nationwide roadshow that travelled across the country last month.

The Military Health Outcomes Program (MiLHOP) roadshow included visits by Joint Health Command’s BRIG Stephan Rudzki to Defence sites, encouraging commanders to inspire service personnel to take up the survey.

“Commanders have responded well to the brief-ings and appreciated an explanation of the benefits and importance to both senior leadership and ADF person-nel of participating in MilHOP,” BRIG Rudzki said.

Drop-in centres organised by the Centre for Military and Veterans’ Health at major bases, including RAAF Bases Amberley and Richmond, formed an important part of the roadshow, allowing personnel to receive, complete and lodge paper health surveys on-site.

MilHOP information is available on 1800 886 567, at www.cmvh.org.au or email: [email protected]

THE Air Force combat reform project is in-viting submissions from interested persons to propose better ways for Air Force to carry out its air movements business.

Submissions may include ideas on pos-sible future organisational constructs.

The invitation follows from a task levied upon the commanders of Combat Support Group and Air Lift Group by the CAF’s Advisory Committee to review the ways in which air movement support is provided.

This requirement is integral to the Air Force combat support program and the restructure of Combat Support Group.

A 'straw man' options paper on organi-sational constructs will be available under ‘Airload Capability’ on the Air Force com-bat support reform program intranet site, http://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/sites/CSG/ComWeb.asp?page=137689

At the same time, expressions of inter-est are sought from senior NCOs and WOFFs to participate in a SNCO-level working group meeting to be held at RAAF Base Townsville on August 9 and 10.

The meeting will discuss air movements capabilities. Preference will be given to those with current or recent and significant movements experience.

EOIs should be submitted to WGCDR David Coysh at [email protected] or (07) 4752 2097.

“It has many features, it tells stories, and people today identify with stories.

“It gives examples, and people will say, ‘I think that’s a bit like my situation’, and they can seek help and solace.

“The website contains questions

and answers on many useful things from trauma through to baptisms and weddings and just basic stuff about contacting a chaplain or a church at your new posting.”

CHAP Atsushi Shibaoka from RAAF Base East Sale said the web-site created a ‘virtual community’

despite posting cycles and deploy-ments.

“The website provides a great forum for Anglican Christians in the Defence Force regardless of where they are,” he said.

Visit www.defenceanglicans.org.au

Milhop roadshow a hit at bases

WEB FAITH: Director Chaplaincy Air Command CHAP Kevin Russell points out the advantages of the new Defence Anglicans website at the official launch. Photo: SGT Dave Morley

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

DHA was established in 1988 with the aim of improving the quality and selection of housing for Defence members and their families. Now, over 20 years on, DHA manages approximately 17, 300 residences around Australia and provides a range of services to help ease the pressure on Defence families – we will support you and your family throughout your tenancy, from moving in, to living in, and then moving out of your home.

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

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

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

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

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

All of your pay matters, including establishing how much rent you will pay each fortnight, annual rent increases, and any debits or credits affecting your pay

Your housing entitlements, including Rent Allowance or Living In Accommodation

Organising your relocation requirements Making and managing any policy which affects your entitlements when you relocate (including removals, the effects of Fringe Benefits Tax associated with removals and temporary and permanent housing entitlements)

Arranging all your DHA housing maintenance requirements

Arranging all your uplift and delivery requirements

Determining your Conditions of Service

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

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

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

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

Booking travel and temporary accommodation for your relocation

Your relocation allowances and entitlements

If you have received your posting before 1 July 2010 and are moving before 31 August 2010, DHA will manage your relocation. Any postings received after 1 July 2010 will be managed by Toll Transitions.

Defence Housing Australia – your housing solution.

Eamon Hamilton

SMART aircraft and systems need smarter leaders to run them.

This is especially the case in Australia’s air mobility community, which is facing a host of new aircraft and new capabilities coming online.

Cultural changes, such as those under the Strategic Reform Program, will require personnel to be better aware of Defence issues affecting their broader environment.

Raising the quality of personnel is the goal of the Reach Program, initi-ated by Air Lift Group (ALG) in mid-2009 and accessible to personnel of all ranks and musterings within the air mobility community.

Over a two-day workshop, Reach delivers leadership skills and examples and opens a forum for all musterings to understand what makes others tick.

Participation in Reach by units of ALG, as well as the Air Lift and Heavy Air Lift Systems Program Offices, creates a better sense of iden-tity for the air mobility community.

Commander ALG AIRCDRE John Oddie created Reach as a means of creating better cohesion and awareness within leaders in the workplace.

“The aim of the Reach program is to develop a culture within the air mobility team that encourages lead-ers at all levels to mentor and coach individuals within their workplaces as part of normal day-to-day activities,” AIRCDRE Oddie said.

Four workshops are conducted

25PersonnelAugust 5, 2010RCEAIR FF

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Reach for the skies

annually and the latest will be con-ducted at RAAF Base Amberley from August 3-4.

For participants, new leadership skills are a strong draw for taking part in the workshops.

LACW Tyneille Wyatt, an orderly room clerk with the Air Movements Training and Development Unit, par-ticipated in the June Reach seminar at RAAF Base Richmond.

“I'm really interested in learning more about leadership and what I can offer ALG and Air Force in terms of applying better leadership,” LACW Wyatt said.

“The workshop has given me extra

confidence in applying leadership in any rank or situation.

“The cognitive knowledge about our backgrounds, and how we all have a different setting in which we were brought in, helped me as well.”

That opportunity for fresh perspec-tives crosses all ranks and services. Air Lift Systems Program Office engineer, FLGOFF Jarrod Smith, said the work-shop opened him to issues affecting enlisted members.

“It gave me a better understanding of issues that are important to troops and the different things that motivate them,” FLGOFF Smith said.

Reach Board member SGT

Elizabeth Lawson, who helps coor-dinate the workshops and select par-ticipants, said the leadership skills delivered by Reach would complement existing Air Force programs.

“We’re not the only group within Air Force with its own leadership pro-gram,” SGT Lawson said.

“The intent is to have members thinking about their own leadership skills, as well as looking at their role from a broader strategic and opera-tional level.”

Workshops examine leadership models and case studies, demonstrate scenarios which can be found in the

workplace, and apply airmen culture and values to discussions.

They also apply existing principles within ADDP 00.6 and ADMIN 01-2, the documents which outline Defence leadership, and roles and responsibili-ties throughout Air Force ranks.

“Each Reach workshop will have a spread of people from each ALG squadron, so it’s a great opportunity for integration of knowledge,” SGT Lawson said.

According to SGT Lawson, responses have been largely positive.

“We had a trade supervisor who said it reminded him that regardless of rank or position, you’re still required to exude leadership within your peer group and the unit.”

The spectrum of Reach work-shops also deals with the realities of the workplace. EXEC WOFF for ALG, WOFF Stephen Airey, said: “We dis-cuss the importance of mentoring and coaching within the workplace, and dealing with difficulty.”

“As a case in point, we discuss how a warrant officer can have a ‘hard’ con-versation with their senior officers if they think that they are headed down the wrong path,” he said.

Lessons on mentoring are applied from both inside and outside the air mobility community.

For more information on the Reach program, visit the ALG website via the Air Force intranet website and click on the Reach link.

SHARING THE LOAD: Air Lift Group’s Reach Program delivers leadership skills and examples, and opens a forum for people to learn about how others think and operate. Photo: SGT Mick Davis

A MilHOP, SKIP AND A JUMPTO A BETTER HEALTH FUTUREFor a better health service for you and your ADFteammates, participate in the MilHOP survey.

[email protected]/milhop1800 886 567

26 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FTraining

IN THE July 8 edition of Air Force News (page 8), we published a story on the No. 219 RAAF Advanced Pilots’ Course gradu-ation at RAAF Base Pearce. The story named four of the graduates but did not mention the remaining five on course.

Among the five was FLGOFF Nathan Schubert, pictured right after participat-

ing in the traditional Thunderbirds for-mation flypast over Pearce (below). FLGOFF Schubert has posted to 36SQN at RAAF Base Amberley to fly the C-17. The other graduates were FLGOFF Scott MacCallum, PLTOFF Andreas Constantinou, FLGOFF Murray Turland and LEUT Daile Coey-Braddon.

Flying high at graduation ceremony

LAC Aaron Curran

FORTY Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) from across the Northern Territory paraded at RAAF Base Tindal on June 29, signalling their graduation from two courses.

44WG Detachment Commander WGCDR Robert Graham inspected the graduating parade.

Seventeen of the 40 cadets completed their Junior Non-Commissioned Officer (JNCO) promotion course and 33 completed their first General Service Training Camp (GST).

During the 11-day JNCO course, the cadets learnt instructional techniques, leadership training, team building and ceremonial drill.

LCDT Max Lye of 801SQN was awarded the FSGT Shane Whitbread Leadership Trophy.

“FSGT Whitbread was a passionate instructor to the AAFC here in the NT,” CPL Kate Pullen from HQ 8WG AAFC said.

“He tragically passed away on March 22 this year in a plane crash, so the Dux award was renamed in his memory.”

FSGT Whitbread’s wife, Cherie, presented the award to LCDT Lye during the parade.

The GST camp was held for new AAFC recruits from the ages of 13 to 17 and it gave them a familiari-sation week on an Air Force base.

“The recruits visited 75SQN, the military work-ing dogs, airfield defence guards and the firefighters,” CPL Pullen said.

“It gave them a good idea about life in the Air Force.”

CUOs Apara Brewster and Essie Broadbent, CFSGT Zachary Dunne, CSGT Harrison Kerr and LCDT Matt Lewis were awarded the Ian Davidson Memorial Flying Scholarships, comprising $12,000 worth of flying provided for cadets in the Northern Territory.

The scholarship is funded by the NT Government in memory of FLTLT Ian Davidson, 75SQN, who went missing while on a night training flight in 1985.

IN MEMORY: Cherie Whitbread presents the FSGT Shane Whitbread Leadership Trophy to dux LCDT Max Lye at RAAF Base Tindal. The award was named in honour of FSGT Whitbread who died in a plane crash in March this year.Photos: LAC Casey Smith

Cadets spread their wings

ALL’S WELL: Parade commander WGCDR Robert Graham, from 44WG Det, Darwin, inspects the graduating parade and talks to some of the cadets.

Photos: courtesy of Tony Schubert and Michael Brooke

27 FinanceAugust 5, 2010RCEAIR FF

Finding it hard to help your people with

financial issues?

This film will help you.

VOLUME SIX

the DOs & DON’Ts

Helping ADF members with their finances

VOLUME SIX

the DOs &

DON’Ts

Helping ADFmembers withtheir finances

Watch the video or order the DVD on the websitewww.adfconsumer.gov.au

ADF Financial Services Consumer CouncilADF Financial Services Consumer Council

Caring for kidsThe Child Support Agency and ADF Consumer Council say ADF service can present separated parents with unique challenges.

THE Child Support Agency (CSA) is reminding sepa-rated parents in the ADF that there are a range of

special circumstances that may affect the amount of child support they pay and receive.

The CSA has noted that serving in the ADF presents separated par-ents with some unique challenges. For instance, most ADF personnel are post-ed every two to three years, they often have to serve overseas, they may have to live on base with little or no room to accommodate visiting children, and so on.

There can also be financial issues around tax-free payments, which are not taken into account under the child- support formula.

For these reasons, ADF’s separated parents should be aware of the options and support available to ensure that their children receive the right amount of child support.

For parents in constantly changing circumstances, such as those serving in the ADF, the CSA encourages ‘private collect’ arrangements because they are flexible and allow parents to work out payment arrangements that best suit them and their children.

Private collect allows CSA custom-ers to manage the transfer of child sup-port payment themselves without CSA intervention. The CSA has noted that more than half of CSA customers cur-rently use private collect arrangements.

In special circumstances parents may also be able to apply for a Change of Assessment (COA). Parents can apply for a COA under 10 criteria.

The most common are when there is a significant change in income, prop-erty, financial resources or the earning capacity of one or both parents. These could all be the result of a sudden or unexpected deployment or posting.

COA is a more complex process that can take some time, so it is impor-

tant that you call the CSA first before you apply, as a simpler option may be available.

Parents should contact the CSA as soon as any of their circumstances change, so that the CSA understands all your details and can give careful consideration to the special circum-stances of your case.

You can get further child support information by visiting: www.csa.gov.au or phoning 131272 or, if you are thinking of applying for a Change of Assessment, you can call 131141. You should also visit the website of the ADF Financial Services Consumer Council to find out more about managing personal and family finances: www.adfconsumer.gov.au

SOLE PARENTING: If you’re living on base you may not have the room or resources to have a child or children visit you. Photo: Dreamstime

� The costs of maintaining a child are significantly affected by high costs of enabling a parent to spend time with, or communicate with, the child;

� The costs of maintaining a child are significantly affected by high costs associated with the child’s special needs;

� The costs of maintaining a child are significantly affected by high costs of caring for, educating or training the child in the way both parents intended;

� The child-support assessment is unfair because of the child’s income, earning capacity, property or financial resources;

� The child support assessment is unfair because the paying parent has paid or transferred money, goods or property to the child, the receiving parent, or a third party for the benefit of the child;

� The costs of maintaining a child are significantly affected by the parent or non-parent carer’s high child care costs for the child (and the child is under 12 years);

� The parent’s necessary expenses significantly affect their capacity to support the child;

� The child support assessment is unfair because of the income, earn-ing capacity, property or financial resources of one or both parents;

� The parent’s capacity to support the child is significantly affected by their legal duty to maintain another child or person; their necessary expenses in supporting another child or person; and their high costs of spending time with another child or person they have a legal duty to maintain.

� The parent’s responsibility to main-tain a resident child significantly reduces their capacity to support the child support child.

If your income or circumstances change significantly you can apply for a Change of Assessment (COA). A COA will be considered under the following 10 criteria:

10 WAYS TO COA

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28 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FHealth

Use and you will loseHugh McKenzie says if you return positive for a prohibited substance you’d be right to fear the consequences.

DURING 2009 and 2010 Defence has increased its rate of prohibited substance testing from 10 per cent to

25 per cent.The Prohibited Substance Testing

Program (PSTP) is an administrative program under the Defence Act aimed at deterring the use of prohibited sub-stances in the ADF.

Prohibited Substance Testing Coordinator – Air Force WOFF Mark Higgs said the increase in prohib-ited substance testing didn’t see an increase in positive results for Air Force.

“In fact, our detection rate has con-tinued to drop since the program was introduced in 2005,” WOFF Higgs said.

“I believe this is because the pro-gram now has a higher profile and the message is sinking in.

“Drug use will not be tolerated and at some point you will get caught.”

Air Force recently made prohibited substance testing a command respon-sibility, raising the program’s profile at the unit level, giving commanding officers and testing staff freedom to tailor the process.

“This has had a significant impact on the reality of the program to each

Air Force member,” WOFF Higgs said. “It’s part of their life.”

Defence takes a positive prohibited substance test very seriously. Everyone who tests positive will be asked why they should be allowed to remain in the ADF. And if people want to keep using a prohibited substance they can expect to lose their job. That’s what Defence’s policy on the use of pro-hibited substances and what the term ‘zero tolerance’ really means.

Navy, who introduced the increase in June 2009 has also noticed that despite the increased testing, the num-ber of positive tests have remained about the same.

LCDR Darlene Williams from Navy’s Alcohol and Other Drugs Program said: “If you look at the 2007 Australian household drug sur-vey about 13 per cent of people over the age of 14 declared illicit drug use. Defence in that same period, was less than two per cent, still well below the national average and that’s for a vari-ety of reasons.

“People willing to join the ADF are more likely to align with our values. Also, across the Services we have rigorous induction training and annual awareness training.

“The testing program acts as a deterrent, and there’s the promotion of

health and wellbeing and all the sup-port that’s available,” she said.

“Then there’s the policy,” said Jennifer Harland from Joint Health Command.

“New recruits walk in; sign on the dotted line on day one to say ‘I’m aware there is a PSTP and that I may be tested at any time and discharge may be a consequence’.”

Data shows that the drugs of choice in the ADF are cannabis and metham-

phetamines, particularly ecstasy, with a marked increase in steroid use over the past few years.

For more information about prohibited substances visit www.intranet.defence.gov.au/vcdf/sites/dmhsf/comweb.asp?page=39415 or the RAN Alcohol and Other Drugs Program: intranet.defence.gov.au/navyweb/sites/RANAODP/ComWeb.asp?page=100852

DON’T BORROW: If you take someone else’s medicine your sample could be positive. Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

� You may lose your job;� You may lose your pay;� You may lose Defence medical

benefits;� You may lose your housing entitle-

ment;� You may have to tell your grand-

parents, parents, partner and kids and watch your family’s pride in you slowly wither; and

� You may lose your mate who tried to help.

If you or a mate need help regard-ing drug use you should talk to your medical officer, psychologist, ADPA or chain of command.

IF YOU TEST POSITIVE



29August 5, 2010RCEAIR F Sp rt

Jaimie Abbott

WHEN FLTLT Stewart Parkinson first flicked a puck along the deep end of a pool, he had no idea that his skills would one day get him to compete in the world open underwater hockey championships.

FLTLT Parkinson, from RAAF Base Williamtown, is participat-ing in Exercise Pitch Black 2010 at the moment – but when the exer-cise wraps up he will head straight to Medellin, Columbia to represent Australia from August 13 to 21.

“I’ve always loved the water, I grew up fishing, surfing and diving and when I first had a go at underwa-ter hockey at 15 years old, I became hooked,” he said.

Working long hours as part of the exercise, FLTLT Stewart has managed to squeeze in training sessions in the pool each day, which involves breath-hold training, underwater sprinting and practising with the bat and puck.

“It’s certainly a dangerous sport, and I’ve had my fair share of cuts, bruises and dislocated fingers over the years.

“But I have so much fun playing underwater hockey and I like that it’s something different.”

Each match runs for half an hour and players wear a snorkel, mask and fins and latex gloves to protect their hands. They use a 30cm hockey stick to push a puck into the goals at each end of the 25-metre pool. The 1.5 kilogram puck is made of lead and is coated in plastic. There are six people in the water per team at one time, and they are required to regularly dive down to play the game.

Underwater Hockey is relatively

unknown in Australia, but there is strong competition around the world. The world championships are held every two years and is the pinnacle of the sport.

This year, each team will be required to play up to three games a day.

In the past, Stewart has been a part of the winning Australian Team including in 2000 when they won a Gold Medal at the World Championships in Hobart.

“It’s a great way to keep fit and healthy and I love it,” he said.

CPL Jane Ashby-Cliffe

THE taste of success was sweet for WOFF Ken Robertson when he figured in Wagga’s men’s grand final victory at the 2010 ACT/Wagga Defence Inter-service Basketball competition in June.

His team, which opened the tournament with a one-point loss, turned the tables on the APS men’s team to win 53-32.

The makeup of the Wagga team was open to Air Force, Army, Navy and APS players.

What started as a close bat-tle was quick to turn, as the young legs and tight team-play of the Wagga men’s kicked in.

Tournament OIC CAPT Judson Ruig paid tribute to

WOFF Robertson who was a key playmaker and outside shooter. “He held off retirement by one year to lead the team,” CAPT Ruig said.

Both finals teams came through the preliminaries with three wins and one loss, while the combined Army/Air Force team and the men’s Navy team tied third with two wins and two losses.

The women’s final was neck and neck until the final minutes when the combined Air Force/APS women’s team made the winning baskets, defeating Wagga 24-20.

CAPT Ruig said the crowd were treated to a bruising spec-tacle of defence, with both teams struggling to find their

rhythm on the offensive end, thanks to great defence from both teams.

“The strong Wagga inside play from Melissa Robertson, and the shooting of Stacy Bridgfoot kept things close, but it was the veteran pairing of Karen Kill and SQNLDR Fiona Harris that ensured the victory by four points,” he said.

The tournament was held at Duntroon, ahead of the 2010 Australian Defence Basketball Assoc i a t i on , Combined Services competition at RAAF Base Williamtown later this year.

All interested players should contact CAPT Judson Ruig at [email protected]

ON TOP OF HIS GAME: FLTLT Stewart Parkinson takes time out from work for an underwater hockey training session; inset, holding in breath in the name of underwater hockey.

Photos: LACW Jessica Smith and FLGOFF Kent Lockwood

New depths for old hand

Not the retiring type, thank goodness

STICKING AROUND: WOFF Ken Robertson goes forward. Photo: Brian Hartigan

Logjam hits the rugged trackNINE members from Logistics Branch – Air Force (LOGBR-AF) in Canberra have set themselves a gruelling task in order to raise money for Oxfam. Walkers GPCAPT Philip Tammen, SQNLDR Roger Kropman, SQNLDR Rob Saunders and SQNLDR Hilton Hunter and reserve member USAF MAJ Matt Berridge have entered the Oxfam Trailwalker to be held in Sydney’s northern bushland area from August 27 to 29. The challenge is to complete 100km of rug-ged bush trail in less than 48 hours as a team of four. Teams must start together, stick together and try to fin-ish together as a complete team. The Air Force team, No. 463, calls itself Logjam. The team, with a support crew of four from the branch, has been training hard leading up to the event and is well on the way in achieving its fundrais-ing target of at least $2500. Oxfam Australia raises money to help some of the world’s poorest people.

If you would like to support the cause, check out the team’s own Oxfam webpage to make a donation and encourage our members at http://www2.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/Sydney/team/463. The page will be updated regularly so that you can track the team’s progress leading up to the walk.

Soccer call THE Air Force Football Association (AFFA) is calling for nominations for soccer play-ers, coaches and support staff to represent the Air Force at the open men’s, over-35 men’s and open women’s level. The initial training camp will be held at RAAF Base Richmond from October 24 to 28. Players selected to represent the Air Force will then move into camp for the ADF soccer nationals from October 29 to November 5. The location for the ADF nationals is yet to be deter-mined but is envisaged to be in the Sydney region. For more information, contact FLTLT Ben Cowan, [email protected]. Expressions of interest for players close on October 1. Expressions of interest for coaches, managers and sup-port staff closes on August 13. Last year, Air Force won the inter-service title for over-35 men and was a kick away from the open men’s and open women’s title. Men’s player of the tournament SGT Nathan King was one of 19 Air Force members selected to represent the ADF.

Hot and cold RUNNER CPL Cassie Fien went from one extreme to another when she finished second in the Launceston 10 last month. The race was held in wet, windy and cold condi-tions – in contrast to the rela-tive balmy weather of the Gold Coast where she also placed second in the half-marathon several weeks earlier.

IN BRIEF

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30 August 5, 2010RCEAIR FSp rt

John Martin and CPL Zenith King

BE AFRAID, road cyclists. Be very afraid. Former winner SGT Mick Rand will compete in the Defence Road Cycling Championships in Adelaide

next month and he’s not coming alone.

SGT Rand, of 81WG at RAAF Base Williamtown, is coach/manager of the NSW branch of the Australian Defence Cycling Team, which is in its inaugural year.

There are eight Air Force men in the 10-man team and you can’t miss them. They ride in jerseys that are pre-dominantly white with red, blue and yellow and they’ve been making their mark in NSW all this year.

SGT Rand is not crowing yet. In fact, he’s guarded about the team’s chances.

“We hope to go well,” he said. “Initially we’ll ride for each other but if we get to the point where we can’t win, we’ll be helping another RAAFie to win.”

The championships will consist of a time trial on September 13, a road race on September 14 and a criterium on September 15. The accumulated results will decide the overall winner.

SGT Rand won that honour in 2008 by winning the criterium, finish-ing second in the road race and sixth in the time trial.

Second place that year was WGCDR Paul Connor, while CPL Dean Benedetti came third in the criterium. All members rode for the

September 13: All grades time trial, men’s C grade 15km, women’s A grade 15km, men’s B grade 25km and men’s A grade 40km, at Langhorne’s State Time Trial Course.September 14: All grades road race, Williamtown 12km state road course, men’s A grade seven laps, men’s B grade five

laps; and combined men’s C grade and women’s A grade three laps.September 15: All grades criteri-um races, Victoria Park Criterium Track, combined men’s C grade and women’s A grade 20 minutes and two laps, men’s B grade 35 minutes and two laps; and men’s A grade 50 minutes and two laps.

Australian Defence Cycling Club then but were not part of any formal team.

The difference is that this year they are all members of the same team. SGT Rand’s team frequently train and race together and know each others’ strengths and weaknesses.

WGCDR Connor, who is based in Canberra, often travels to Spain as engineering manager of the KC-30A tanker project.

As Tour de France fans would know, that takes him pretty close to serious cycling territory – so if the team is lacking in any inspiration, he’s your man. Not only has he seen the Tour de France riders at close quarters, he’s ridden on the part of course in a race that can be likened to France’s cycling version of the Sydney City2Surf. Last year he fea-tured in Air Force News when he rode the L’Etape du Tour.

The other RAAF members of the team are CPL Michael Greck (77SQN), CPL Chris Holbert (77SQN), CPL Jarrod Hughes (278SQN, who won the road race in 2008), CPL Damien Enderby (4SQN), FLTLT David Elliot (2SQN) and SGT Martin Lewis (81WG).

CPL Benedetti (2OCU) has com-peted in the national Defence road titles for the last four years and said he was looking forward to competing again.

“It’s a good opportunity to have a race against other defence riders from around the country that we don’t get to ride against very often,” CPL Benedetti said.

Already this year CPL Benedetti has placed third in the NSW Masters track time trial championships and fourth in the Masters match sprint, putting him in a good position for the event.

“It will give a good indication of how I should go at the National Masters road racing championships just over a week after this event.”

SGT Rand started looking for sponsors late last year.

He selected the team from accom-plished riders around the Newcastle and Canberra area early this year and by May they had their new uniforms.

They’ve been competing in most major NSW State Open races with good returns. More importantly, they are now becoming a well-oiled team machine. So watch out in Adelaide.

SGT Rand also said that this event is a great stepping stone towards one

of the team’s other major goals for the year the Grafton to Inverell Cycling Classic on October 23. That race, over 28km, is perhaps Australia’s toughest one-day cycling event.

SGT Rand tips CPL Holbert as a man to watch in Adelaide, espe-cially in the time trial. “He’s got a big engine.”

Australian Defence Cycling Club South Australian Regional representa-tive, FLTLT Drew Abbott, said the event would determine the Defence national road squad.

“The grades on offer will allow maximum participation for members of varying ability,” he said.

“Three great days of racing will be experienced in an enjoyable club atmosphere.”

Members are not required to hold a road cycling licence to participate in the event.

Further information is at www.adcc.asn.au or contact FLTLT Drew Abbott, [email protected]

COUNTING THE DAYS

THE ADO Mountain Bike Championships will be run by the Australian Defence Cycling Club at Stromlo Forest Park ACT from November 1 to 5. These champion-ships are open to all Defence mountain

bike riders and will be authorised inter-ser-vice sport under DI(G)PERS 14-2. More information will be released as it becomes available through the ADCC website at www.adcc.asn.au

Calling ADO mountain bike riders

Get set for Get set for Tour deTour deAir ForceAir Force

WHIRRING WHEELS: CPL Dean Benedetti in his club colours and WGCDR Paul Connor, inset, racing in France last year.

‘ Initially we’ll ride for each other but if we get to the point where we can’t win, we’ll be helping another RAAFie to win.

– SGT Mick Rand

SGT Andrew Hetherington

FSGT Brad Kirkels was one of more than 50 personnel in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to participate in a 10km run on July 16 to raise money for Operation Care.

Unlike the other runners, though, he ran it wearing his combat body armour.

FSGT Kirkels is the UAE base armament manager and delivers counter Improvised Explosive Device training for ADF personnel deploying to Afghanistan.

“I’ve been training with a mate of mine here to be able to run 10km in the armour and it was a personal goal for me,” FSGT Kirkels said.

“The boys over in Afghanistan wear it every day outside the wire and it was the least I could do here.”

To prepare for the run he started to train 10 weeks ago.

“My mates and I run five days a week when our work schedule allows us to,” FSGT Kirkels said.

“My time today was one hour and two min-utes; it wasn’t my best time with armour (57 minutes) but it wasn’t bad.”

He said his mates helped him during this run.

“I felt pretty buggered after, but I would have slowed down a bit more if I didn’t have my mates with me.”

First across the finish line for Air Force was third-placed male FSGT Bradley Parmenter, the UAE base senior caterer.

It ain’t heavy, it’s my armour

LEAST I COULD DO: FSGT Brad Kirkels who ran in the fundraising run in body armour and, below, they’re off to an early, pre-dawn start in the run.

Photo: CPL Raymond Vance.

31August 5, 2010RCEAIR F Sp rt

LSIS Paul McCallum

TIGHTHEAD prop LAC Brian White has done it again.

He was named player of the series after helping a developing Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) side beat a touring United States Combined Services (USCS) rugby team 2-0 in Sydney and Canberra last month.

LAC White, nicknamed the Polar Bear and who was named best player at the tri-service carnival in Canberra in May, was one of a number of Air Force players who excelled against the US.

In a physically confronting series, the ASRU players overcame the physi-cal size of the visitors and their more structured set of plays.

ASRU coach CAPT Damien Cahill said the developing team did them-selves proud.

“Each service left their individual service mentality at the door and I have never seen such a cohesive bunch of blokes playing for the one goal,” CAPT Cahill said.

“This team was not our regular senior side, we only had a few sea-soned ASRU players and each of the three services contributed the same numbers to make up the team.”

Game one at Victoria Barracks in Sydney was a close affair with the ASRU side pleasantly surprised by the competitiveness of the USCS. While ASRU took the win by out-pacing the visitors, the Americans’ aggression kept them in the game.

ASRU took an early lead in the game and led 19-8 at half-time with three tries to one but after some con-tentious decisions by the referee, ASRU players allowed USCS back into the game with penalty goals.

Halfway through the second half, USCS had closed the gap to one point but a late penalty goal to ASRU secured a 24-21 win.

“LAC White played really well in both games and with players like CPLs Richard Lucker and Richard Falkenmire, we managed to regain control and hold on for the win,” CAPT Cahill said.

Poor discipline hounded the ASRU side in the second match at Duntroon in Canberra and the visitors took an early lead courtesy of a penalty goal.

ASRU settled to regain the lead with a try and conversion but again lost their discipline when some deci-sions went against them and gave USCS a chance to hit back.

“We had one of our players sent off at the 30-minute mark of the first half so

OFF AND RUNNING: PTI CPL Damon Currie, of 321 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron (321ECSS), breaks the line of the defence. Below, CPL Ben Guerts, also from 321ECSS, races past Maroons defender MAJ Daniel Farrands from Norforce. Photos: LAC David Cotton

AIR FORCE’S passion-ate interest in the Rugby League State of Origin series spilled onto the footy field at RAAF Base Darwin when the Air Force QLD Maroons played the Air Force NSW ‘Blues’ in three modified Oztag matches. Like the NRL trilogy, the games pitted state versus state.

Unlike the real thing, NSW triumphed two games to one after the series was deadlocked coming into the final game.

had to manage with one less player on the field for the remaining 50 minutes,” CAPT Cahill said.

“Our management of the bench rota-tion was critical as our conditioning was really tested at the end of the second game.”

Fortunately, the kicking game of the visitors was off and they missed two penalty goal attempts and went in to half-time trailing 10-8.

“The second half was marked by opportunistic tries for us, more than successfully executing the game plan,” CAPT Cahill said.

ASRU crossed the line three times in the final half and kept the opposition

scoreless to run away with a 27-8 vic-tory.

“The defence had their work cut out for them with the USCS camped on our try line for a lot of the game.”

The United States armed forces have been playing rugby at club level since West Point began competing in 1961.

For the past 20 years, the USCS

has had a team representing Army, Navy, Air Force, the Marines and Coast Guard competing in a national rugby competition against civilian sides.

ASRU will now concentrate on the Pacific Nations Military Cup in Canberra in October while the USCS are looking to return next year for a rematch.

CRUNCH TIME: The big men get ready to engage.

Blues’ originoztag

OH NO YOU DON’T: LAC Bodine Luscott moves in to try to smother the kick of a USCS player. Photos: LSIS Paul McCallum

STANDING BY: Man of the series LAC Brian White (No. 1) supports AB Adam Sargent in the tackle of a USCS player.

C C

White heads US routWhite heads US rout

SP RTRTAugust 5, 2010

Blue Blue train is train is a’cominga’coming

John Martin

AFTER playing 286 games for Australia and two Olympic medals, softballer SGT Tracey Mosley has announced her international retirement.

Fear not though. She will still be available to play in ADF games.

In December, SGT Mosley will play in the national ADF state versus state titles in Sydney.

And she has already been named in the ADF team that will visit New Zealand in February.

SGT Mosley, who was 19 when she made her inter-national debut at the Challenger Cup in Beijing in 1992, announced her decision to retire after Australia was bun-dled out of the world championships in Venezuela, South America, last month.

“The mind’s willing but the body isn’t any more,” she said.

Try telling that to her teammates.Although Australia finished fifth at the world titles, its

chances of making the finals dashed by Canada 3-2 after the Aussies led 2-0 at the bottom of the seventh inning, SGT Mosley went out on a high.

Her batting average was .500. To put that in perspective, a good average at that level is about .300.

She was also more than satisfied about her performance in her duties as catcher.

SGT Mosley said retirement was sitting quite well with her at the moment.

“But when the next team is picked for international games I expect I’ll feel funny.”

No wonder. SGT Mosley has been part of the team for a long time now.

She won an Olympic silver medal in Athens, 2004, and a bronze medal in Beijing, 2008. Venezeula was her fourth world championships.

She has played international softball across Europe, Japan, US, China and New Zealand and, of course, Australia.

Aside from ADF softball duties, SGT Mosley will con-tinue playing with her club team, Gungahlin Angels, and ACT in the nationals outside of Defence.

AS TOUR de France fans would attest, it’s not enough to be a good road cyclist. If you want to win really big events, you need a good team behind you.

That’s why SGT Mick Rand, pictured, has assembled a crack team of Air Force cyclists from the Newcastle and Canberra area.

Next month they’ll travel to Adelaide by bus to contest the Defence Road Cycling Championships.

SGT Rand, of 81WG at RAAF Base Williamtown, knows what it takes to win.

He won the title in 2008. And teammate WGCDR Paul Connor is also a former winner.

“Initially we’ll ride for each other but if we get to the point where we can’t win, we’ll be helping another RAAFie to win,” he said.

Full story, Page 30

BATTING POWER: SGT Tracey Mosley will continue to play at club and ADF level. Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

‘ When the next team is picked for international games I expect I’ll feel funny.

Our softball champion calls it a day

Rugby giant LAC Brian White stars again

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