force protection - department of defence · for the second time during a year-long trial between...

The soldiers’ newspaperEdition 1473 September 3, 2020

2RAR soldiers show their skills in HMAS CanberraPage 5

REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT

INNOVATIVE CHANGEImproving fuel storage

systems – Page 3

PUT TO THE TESTCombined-arms combat at Brolga Run – Centre

GOING DIGITALDonate online during

Legacy Week – Page 7

FORCE PROTECTION

Pte Ryan Knowles, of 2RAR, conducts clearance drills on board HMAS Canberra during Regional Presence Deployment 2020. Photo: PO Tom Gibson

OUR TEAMDirector David Edlington

Managing Editor Richard Mihaich Editor Jessica Deotto: 02 6266 7067

Deputy Editor Tatiana Gallon

Reporters Sgt Max Bree Sgt Dave MorleySgt Sebastian BeurichCpl Julia WhitwellCpl Veronica O’HaraLS Kylie JagielloPte Jacob Joseph

[email protected] Editor, Army News, R1-GF-C042, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600

Advertising and subscriptions Marketing Manager Tim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or 0459 842 551 Assistant Marketing Manager Pam Clarke: (02) 6265 2427

[email protected] or [email protected]

DISCLAIMERArmy News is published fortnightly by the Defence News Bureau. It is printed by Spotpress Pty Ltd. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Army News. Every advertisement is subject to Defence News Bureau approval and the Bureau may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. The Bureau accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form not in accordance with the instructions received by the Defence News Bureau. Defence does not endorse the products or services published in advertisements.

Web: defence.gov.au/news/armynews. While there, register to receive an email alert for each new digital edition

READ US ONLINE

army.gov.au

facebook.com/AustralianArmy

youtube.com/AustralianArmyHQ

OTHER ARMY AND DEFENCE CHANNELS

ISSN: 0729-5685 (Print)ISSN: 2209-2218 (Online)

News2

Sgt Dave Morley

THREE surviving WWII veterans, one from each service, gathered at the Australian War Memorial on August 15, VP Day, to mark 75 years since the war’s end.

Among them was former Digger Les Cook, who served in North Africa and the Pacific theatres.

Mr Cook tried to enlist at 16, but was told by the recruiting officer to “try the scouts”.

He wasn’t put off and later returned at 17 with his father, who signed up too.

“I joined up because it was the thing to do; you didn’t give it a second thought,” Mr Cook said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Governor-General Gen (retd) David Hurley and CDF Gen Angus Campbell joined the three

incredible Australians. In his address, the Prime Minister spoke of how a country of seven million Australians united in a “mighty” national effort to defend human civilisation from bullies who sought to destroy it.

“During the Second World War, one million Australians wore our uniform and made the silent promise to give their lives for their country, if need be. Their tomorrows for our today,” he said.

At the time of VP Day, 1945, Australian forces were still engaged in campaigns across the Pacific region, including in New Guinea, Bougainville, New Britain, Borneo and the Philippines.

For those Australians held prisoner in horrific conditions across Asia, VP Day marked the beginning of their return home.

Marking 75 years

Veteran, Les Cook, above right and below left, at

the Victory in the Pacific Day 75th anniversary

commemorative service, held at the Australian War

Memorial, Canberra. Photos: Jay Cronan

CDF Gen Angus Campbell addresses the gathering during the commemorative service.

Capt Lily Charles

REDUCED contamination and fewer refuelling issues should flow from a new diesel storage option for 16kVA generators, thanks to a 3CSR craftsman.

Tech Elec Cfn Daniel Moon aimed to improve the previous practise of strapping a 200L drum to the back of the generator, by designing a purpose-built tank.

“On Sub 4 for RAEME, you need to develop an engineering change process; you are tasked to come up with an idea to better a piece of equipment,” Cfn Moon said.

“Usually these are kept at the theoretical level, but our ASM liked the idea for the fuel storage system, so he asked me to build a prototype and from there it just carried on.

“There have been some chang-

es, but the current design elimi-nates all the hazards we identified with the original system.”

Apart from making the tank safer and easier to use, Cfn Moon’s solution also clears the alternator fan and features a stor-age rack to hold equipment.

3CSR Technical Support Troop commander Lt Matthew Eden said the improved capability brought benefits during Exercise Brolga Run.

“When we originally deployed we weren’t able to send our fuel truck out, which meant we weren’t able to effect our own resupply internally and had to come up with some creative logistics,” Lt Eden said.

“The additional capacity we had in the new fuel tank – Cfn Moon’s creation – meant we were able to provide power for a longer period of time.”

It is now being considered as a way to improve generator capacity across Army.

Cfn Moon said support from his chain of command was the catalyst for bringing his idea to the masses.

“It has gone from just an idea in the workshop, to our ASM, who liked it and showed it to the CO,” Cfn Moon said.

“The CO liked the idea so he showed it to the brigade commander.

“During that process CASG picked up on it through the RODUM and asked for the designs – they’re looking to make another 100-150 to roll out, Army-wide, if it’s successful.

“It was just something I did for SUB 4, but to everyone else it’s more than that. So it’s kind of weird and humbling for me.”

Innovation fuels change fleet-wide

September 3, 2020 Newsdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 3

A trailer-mounted 16kVA generator, fitted with a newly developed fuel tank and all equipment needed for field operation. Photo: Cfn Daniel Moon

Cfn Daniel Moon, left, briefs Commander 3 Bde Brig Kahlil Fegan on the newly developed trailer-mounted fuel tank. Photo: Cfn Ashton Searle

Capt Carla Armenti

TOP End soldiers have deployed a WarpSPEE3D metal printer to the field for the second time during a year-long trial between the Army and Darwin-based tech company, SPEE3D.

Soldiers from 1CSSB used the 4500kg 3D metal printing machine to print genuine military repair parts with the patented cold-spray technology developed by SPEE3D.

In addition to the printer, 1CSSB deployed its improved machine shop facility for the first time, which enabled post-print machining and heat treat-ment to be conducted in the field.

CO 1CSSB Lt-Col Kane Wright valued the benefits of custom-made solutions in the tactical environment.

“Custom-made parts, designed and printed in the field, means we can get equipment back into action quickly and return it to its primary role on the battlefield,” Lt-Col Wright said.

“We can strengthen the supply chain by employing modern technology like this to make exactly what we need at short notice.”

While in the field for Exercise

Buffalo Run, engineering soldiers tested new skills gained from an inten-sive design program in collaboration with Charles Darwin University and SPEE3D.

“Our tech-savvy soldiers now have the skills, and the technology from SPEE3D, to lessen the administration and logistics burden – to be their own solution without reaching back to base or a traditional commercial manufac-turer,” Lt-Col Wright said.

SPEE3D chief executive officer Byron Kennedy said the second field deployment proved the technology was a genuine solution for expeditionary metal 3D printing.

“This trial demonstrated the WarpSPEE3D was a robust workhorse capable of printing real parts and solv-ing real problems in the field,” Mr Kennedy said.

“It also proves that soldiers can take control of the whole workflow of creating the spare parts they need, from design to printing and post-processing, right there where they need them.”

The printer is capable of printing large metal parts up to 45kg, at a speed of up to 6kg an hour.

Tactical printing in the Top End

Cfn Nathan Ryan, from 1CSSB, inspects a newly printed part from the WarpSPEE3D printer during Exercise Buffalo Run at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT. Photo: Cpl Rodrigo Villablanca

NOW AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA EXCLUSIVE TO WWW.LIFESTYLESHOP.COM.AU

• 40mm non-reflective stainless-steel case• Rugged screw-down crown & case back• 200m water resistance rating• Scratch resistant hardened sapphire crystal• Swiss super luminous hands and markers• Swiss all-metal movement

A-2S BALLISTA™

FACE EVERY MINUTE®

News4

Sqn-Ldr Barrie Bardoe

THE COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges to the Defence Aviation Safety Authority (DASA), which is charged with promoting and enhancing the ADF’s aviation safety.

The organisation’s traditional “in person” oversight and edu-cational activities were quickly restructured to adhere to pandemic restrictions.

David Edwards, from DASA’s Directorate of Continuing Airworthiness, said the authority developed remote oversight activi-ties for safety assurance of aircraft.

“These remote activities are resource intensive and often require in-depth analysis of the many data sources,” Mr Edwards said.

“However, they are proving to be a good tool in providing safety assurance and we have learnt a

number of lessons that will feed back into our oversight system when things return to normal.”

Mr Edwards said while remote oversight activities were effec-tive, there were times when DASA needed to be on-site to provide assurance.

“Fortunately, we do have a number of staff who are interstate and at times we have requested support from ex-DASA staff who are in the field,” he said.

“We are also having more con-tact with the community via phone calls and video conferencing.”

Sqn-Ldr Dominic Pace, who leads DASA’s Non-Destructive Testing and Composite Technologies facility at RAAF Base Amberley, said they had adapted their approach to ensure safe testing.

“The authority has afforded some flexibility to Defence aircraft

maintenance organisations regard-ing the management of personnel certifications, acknowledging the impact of COVID-19 on routine business domestic travel,” he said.

DG DASA Air-Cdre Jason Agius was pleased with the agil-ity shown by members during demanding times.

“DASA has adjusted the con-duct of independent aviation safety assurance functions to account for the current social-distancing requirements and travel restric-tions,” Air-Cdre Agius said.

“Key functions impacted are promotion and training, oversight and enforcement, and independent boards of review.

“The impact of COVID-19 restrictions on independent safety assurance functions is considered manageable for now as a result of adaptations that were quickly implemented.”

Lessons restructured

Soldier enhancementSgt Dave Morley

THE government recently approved a Defence request to acquire 8500 addi-tional EF88 rifles, so older variants of the F88 family could be retired.

SO2 IIS Lethality and Situational Awareness Maj William Morshead said the extra rifles were purchased as part of the Soldier Enhancement – Lethality Enhanced F88 (L125-3C) project.

“These rifles will be provided in the Tier 3 Dismounted configuration, with a SPECTER DR [one to four times mag-nification] optical sight and foregrip,” Maj Morshead said.

Separate to this acquisition, LAND 125-3C is now preparing for the roll-out of non-lethal training ammunition sys-tems to complement the EF88.

“Army, in collaboration with our industry partners, is constantly review-ing the system performance and explor-ing options to improve the overall

weapon system ergonomics, weight, reliability and accuracy, as the tech-nologies and the threat evolve,” Maj Morshead said.

User feedback had been positive, according to Maj Morshead, as the sys-tem was lighter, more accurate and reli-able than its predecessor.

“This is primarily because of improvements in the weapon itself; the ancillaries [grips, lasers and grenade launcher attachment], and the optical and night-vision sights,” he said.

“These improvements and additions have effectively doubled the range of the weapon by day and night for the ADF combatant.

“The new optical sight also enhanc-es rapid close-combat engagements.”

Roll-out of the EF88 across ADF is almost complete, with only 3SECFOR, CATC, ALTC, and the Defence Command Support Training Centre awaiting issue.

Pte Anthony Brown conducts a range shoot with the EF88 Austeyr rifle at the Taji Military Complex, Iraq. Photo: Cpl Chris Beerens

CA Lt-Gen Rick Burr fires the EF88 at Lithgow Small Arms.

$30kIncentivesGovernment

Eligible

4 2 2

For Sale $619,000

Ian Blackburn0411 665 503

1 Green Avenue, GunningHere is a home certain to excite! Situated on a generous 1,022sqm corner block. This quality brand new build offers 4 bedrooms with master suite, open plan living and an extensive list of quality inclusions. Ducted heating and cooling is provided along with floor coverings and a designer kitchen.

Pte Jacob Joseph

WHEN Pte Houston Bodenhamer was deployed on Regional Presence Deployment 2020, he didn’t think he would need to use his French skills.

While on operation in the Pacific, the 2RAR soldier came face-to-face with three Micronesian mariners stranded on a remote island.

Pte Bodenhamer was part of a resupply operation to the mari-ners and tasked with translating a message.

“The message said we had aid from the ADF and asked them not to worry as a ship was coming to take them home,” Pte Bodenhamer said.

“I read the letter to them in French and asked if they were alright and if they understood what I’d said. They were in high spirits and their morale was good.

“It was rewarding to see my studies pay off like this. French is just a hobby, I never expected to use it for work.”

HMAS Canberra was passing through the Federated States of Micronesia en-route to Townsville when aircraft spotted “SOS” spelled-out on a beach.

The Navy flagship had just completed exercises with vessels from the United States, Japan and Indonesia.

The Micronesian search-and-rescue task was an unexpected break from training for Pte Bodenhamer

and more than 100 2RAR soldiers embarked in Canberra for the deployment between June 22 and August 13.

CO 2RAR Lt-Col Judd Finger said it was the first time his bat-talion had prepared a contingency force to sail on a landing helicopter dock (LHD).

“They were busy training so they remained sharp,” Lt-Col Finger said.

“They made sure their skills were at a standard that, if they were called upon, they were ready to go.”

As well as adapting urban tac-tics for operating on the ship, LCpl Aaron Hiesberger said time was devoted to integrated training with Navy and attachments from 10FSB, 3CSSB and 3CER

“It was about sharing knowl-edge,” LCpl Hiesberger said.

“We got lessons on Bushmaster basic maintenance from transport, and tactical combat casualty care from the medics.

“We put on combat shooting lessons demonstrating drills and techniques to use the EF88 more effectively, which culminated in a live-fire practice on the flight deck.”

Soldiers and sailors also con-ducted training to bolster the ship’s defences using specialist equipment, such as Javelin missiles.

2RAR Javelin operator Pte Ryan Knowles said the anti-armour weap-on could be easily integrated.

“The ship has decent 25mm cannons, but we could provide that extra fire support, if requested, as

well as battlefield commentary,” Pte Knowles said.

“We had snipers and Javelin teams on the ship’s bridge to devel-op SOPs as well as teams with F89s and a grenade launcher attachment at each corner of the ship.

“The Javelin can lock on to rotary wing aircraft or fire in direct attack mode; having the option within force protection greatly enhances the capability of the ship.”

2RAR’s success in the amphibi-ous role could be attributed to Army and Navy’s ongoing integration, according to Lt-Col Finger.

“Land forces have a lot to pro-vide maritime forces,” he said.

This included integration of combat aid and medics into Navy’s medical system, tactical recovery of aircrew, small boats, the Army beach team and their landing craft.

LCpl Hiesberger, who first embarked in HMAS Adelaide in 2016, believed the Army-Navy relationship had come a long way since 2RAR began amphibious operations.

“At the start it was more about getting from A to B. Now we are trying to develop the joint capabil-ity with Navy and provide as much value as we can,” he said.

“It’s a work in progress because people post in and out of the unit and the LHD crew changes every two years.

“The more we integrate into the amphibious role the more effective we are as a fighting force.”


Skills on point

Soldiers from 2RAR deliver food and supplies to a group of stranded mariners from the Federated States of Micronesia. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

Soldiers from 2RAR conduct a training exercise with a RAN MRH90 helicopter.Photo: LS Ryan Tascas

Pte Samuel Williams operates a Javelin missile launcher during a force protection exercise in HMAS Canberra. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

defencebank.com.au1800 033 139

*Approval subject to Defence Bank’s lending criteria. ^Terms and conditions and Interest rates are available at defencebank.com.au.Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 Australian Credit Licence 234582.

We know you want a quick approval on your home loan application, so we ensure from application to approval is a matter of days, not weeks and weeks.

We’re sure to put a smile on your face. And socks.

To start your application today, drop into one of our 33 on base branch locations across Australia, visit defencebank.com.auor call 1800 033 139.

Smilesall ’round.

Approved lender.

www.hamel.edu.au 1300 7 999 14

[email protected]

Recognition of prior learning is about experience … not the rank or position held. If you have led others, if you have balanced multiple tasks … consider making contact

BSB51918 Diploma of Leadership and Management BSB51415 Diploma of Project Management BSB50215 Diploma of Business All Qualifications Assessed & Issued by Hamel Institute RTO 32399


Pte Jacob Joseph

AS PATROL scout Pte Lleyton Gallegos fired an M18A1 Claymore antipersonnel mine, the concussive force of the blast kicked debris and dust in every direction, demonstrating the weapon’s bark can be as effective as its bite.

Running from August 10 to 14 at High Range Training Area Townsville, Exercise Black Marlin aimed to give reconnaissance soldiers from 2RAR B Coy exposure to high explosives on a dismounted-manoeuvre live-fire range.

Patrol commander Cpl Jonathan Williams said it was the first time some of his patrol members had set off a Claymore.

“It was great training to do it in close quarters from a lying-up position (LUP),” Cpl Williams said.

“The Claymore is a shock-and-awe

weapon. We want to use it to kill the enemy but it also creates confusion we can use to gain the initiative in the fight.”

Call sign 21, one of 2RAR’s four reconnaissance platoons, practised dif-ferent break-contact scenarios during the exercise, such as breaking from an LUP and the “man-down” drill.

“In a six-man patrol, members switch between firing to suppress the enemy and dragging the casualty,” Pte Gallegos said.

“We kept being contacted by the enemy for about half a kilometre. The guys were knackered by the time we were clear.”

Range OIC and 21 PL Commander Lt Sebastian Ellis said multiple groups of targets were placed within a move-ment box and activated based on the patrol commander’s decisions.

“We had banks of targets set up to the left and to the rear to simulate the

enemy following up the patrols as they continued their break,” Lt Ellis said.

“The targets automatically drop after multiple hits and reappear after a set time.

“We wanted the junior command-ers to use tactically viable options based on the lay of the land. The tar-gets were set up so the patrol could engage the enemy whatever the tacti-cal decision.”

Training on a range designed to afford commanders as much flexibility and freedom of action offered one of the best types of training Cpl Williams had seen.

“You can do these break-contact drills 100 times on base and you’d get a 10th of the training value,” he said.

“The high explosives coupled with a live-fire range and the automatic tar-gets are as close to realistic training as we can get at the moment.”

Training as real as

it gets

Soldiers from 2RAR practise the man-down drill during

Exercise Black Marlin.

A hidden Figure 11 Target pops up to demand a response from the 2RAR soldiers as they break contact.

LS Kylie Jagiello

GOING largely digital this year, the iconic Legacy Week campaign is run-ning from August 30 to September 5.

Founded in 1923, Legacy supports veterans’ families, ensuring no spouse or child suffers financially and socially after the death or serious injury of a loved one.

Legacy Australia chief executive officer Scott Warr said a number of Legacy Clubs had cancelled commem-orative events and fundraising activi-ties because of pandemic restrictions.

“Clubs that are continuing with their initiatives are looking at operat-ing on a smaller scale, resulting in lim-ited opportunities,” Mr Warr said.

This year Legacy is urging Australians to consider donating to Legacy online.

“This will allow us to continue to provide financial, emotional and developmental support for those in our care,” Mr Warr said.

Legacy Week goes digital

Funds assist about 52,000 benefi-ciaries, with 82 per cent being elderly widowers.

Legacy has launched an online store where people can buy 2020 merchandise and support their local club.

To find out what local clubs are doing this Legacy Week call 1800 LEGACY (534 229), or donate at www.legacyweek.com.au Visit www.legacyshop.com.au to purchase 2020 merchandise.

Legacy Australia is urging people to donate online.

You have our support.

We’ve been proud to support members of the Australian Defence Force and their families for over 25 years. And while times have certainly changed over the past few months, that support is as steadfast as it’s always been.

If you’re a Defence Force Home Loan customer and need some extra support right now – or would just like to find out more about how we can help – head to nab.com.au/defence.

We’ll get through this together.

Benefits and discounts only apply whilst your loan is part of a NAB Defence Force Home Loan package. Annual package fee applies. Only available to eligible Defence Force Members. Correct as at 7 November 2019. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply. ©2020 National Australia Bank Limited ABN 12 004 044 937 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 230686. A153242-0520

News8

Flg-Off Jessica Winnall

ARMY medic Pte Justin Banks joined the ADF to make a difference. What he didn’t realise was just how quickly that would happen.

Pte Banks had just finished medic school when he was called up to be part of Australia’s frontline response to the pandemic.

“I’m straight out of school and can’t believe I’m already making a difference – COVID-19 has taken everyone by sur-prise,” Pte Banks said.

Joining the Army after high school, Pte Banks completed his training in Brisbane. He is now part of a medical team support-ing the Victorian Government’s response to the pandemic in Shepparton.

“I am so proud to be part of the medi-cal team. I have learnt so much from every member of Operation COVID-19 Assist – the doctors, nurses and other medics who are here with me, and those from the non-medical team,” he said.

“Working in support of the Victorian Government has been an eye-opener, and I can see so many opportunities for cooperation.

“I hope to use the skills I have learnt during the pandemic response to better prepare me for the Bachelor of Paramedic Practice at the University of Tasmania.”

Pte Banks was testing symptomat-ic patients alongside clinical nurse Lisa Llewellyn, who said the pop-up clinic at Mooroopna allowed them to test and respond to operating conditions quickly.

“The ADF has been invaluable in setting up and packing down the pop-up clinic and in helping us to determine how to work in temporary locations,” Ms Llewellyn said.

Straight to the frontlinePte Justin Banks, of 1CHB, at the Education and Activity Centre’s pop-up COVID-19 testing site in Mooroopna, Victoria. Photo: Pte Dustin Anderson

n Certified Professional Resume Writern Over 15,000 ADF to civvy resumes writtenn Spouses may be eligible for free supportn Free cover letter & coaching with every CV

Australia’s No 1 ADF Resume Writer

Call NJN now u

AWARD WINNING RESUMES

The ONLY ADF provider that does a CV interviewCPRW, CDAA, PARWCC Certifications

www.nextjobnow.com.au

1300 112 114

An Army knife forged in history

Sgt Janine Fabre

A COMMANDO knife forged from leftover iron parts from the MV Krait restoration has been gifted to Special Operations Command by the Australian War Memorial.

The gift was in recognition of the long history and strong bonds between them.

Maj-Gen Adam Findlay, Special Operations Commander for Australia, accepted the replica Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife, a famous symbol of British and Commonwealth Commandos, in Canberra on August 12.

“The knife symbolises the first spe-cial operation that Australia conducted in September 1943,” Maj-Gen Findlay said.

“Operation Jaywick was a mag-nificent story of courage and heroism. When Australia went to war in WWII, Australia had no special operations capability.

“We needed people to go into the archipelago of Indo-Pacific to protect the Australian mainland, so ‘Special Operations Australia’ was raised for this task.”

Special Operations Australia’s direct descendent is the modern Special Operations Command, a direct link from WWII.

“This linage is important for us as we go through a period of cultural and professional renewal. We look to our

ancestors for the courage, principles and values they demonstrated during WWII,” Maj-Gen Findlay said.

Fairbairn–Sykes-style fighting knives were issued to commandos dur-ing WWII and carried by Z Special Force soldiers during the raid on Singapore Harbour in 1943.

MV Krait, a wooden-hulled Japanese fishing vessel was used to suc-cessfully attack Japanese shipping in Singapore Harbour as part of Operation Jaywick.

Director of the Australian War Memorial Matt Anderson said during restoration of the MV Krait, it was decided that leftover iron and timber would be reclaimed and used for some-thing meaningful.

Tharwa Valley Forge in Canberra made a limited number of replica sti-letto knives.

“The knife is an expression of the appreciation that we have for all who served and is a reminder of the rela-tionship between Special Operations Command and the Australian War Memorial,” Mr Anderson said.

“We wanted to provide a point of meaning and focus for people who have served in the various Special Forces regiments.

“It is important to learn from the bravery and achievements of our prede-cessors and apply them to contemporary operations and into the future.”

Maj-Gen Adam Findlay accepts a replica Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife from Director of the Australian War Memorial Matt Anderson. Photo: Sgt Janine Fabre

Cpl Julia Whitwell

W I T H t h e u n i t d i s p e r s e d nationwide, including on COVID-19 taskings, 1MP Btn’s 20th birthday was low-key this year.

P r i o r i t i s i n g i t s s u p p o r t t o d o m e s t i c a n d o v e r s e a s operations, the unit is focused on modernisation.

CO 1MP Btn Lt-Col Benjamin Templeman said the battalion had recently procured significantly advanced forensics equipment.

“It will allow our Scenes of Crime specialists to rapidly examine inc ident s i tes and recreate crime scenes through 3D modelling,” Lt-Col Templeman said.

1 M P B t n i s t h e A D F ’s expeditionary military policing capability, supporting deployed JTFs and reinforcing domestic actions led by JMPU. With a strong focus on police tradecraft, the unit trains closely with JMPU and civilian police.

“In 2012 we focused on becoming more combat survivable so we could bet ter support the combat brigades,” Lt-Col Templeman said.

“As we look forward, we’re focusing on how we can continue to provide that support as well integrating with other 6 Bde units to form multi-disciplinary teams.”

The battalion’s commitment to operations meant its soldiers had deployed continuously over its 20

years, according to 2IC and former RSM Maj Michael Cracknell.

“We do two things over there – policing operations in support of the force, and policing of the force,” Maj Cracknell said.

One of the biggest changes, however, was the shift from in-service transfers to ab-initio intakes into the corps.

“That was a massive cultural change,” Maj Cracknell said.

“Now, each soldier we get is a blank canvas and they come in with a greater sense of belonging.”

True to the unit motto “United We Fight”, 1MP Btn’s strength comes from its diverse workforce.

“We are incredibly lucky to have both full-time and part-time soldiers,” Lt-Col Templeman said.

Twenty-year commitment


Military working dog, Ice, attacks a simulated offender during Exercise Diamond Strike, held in the Shoalwater Bay training area, Queensland, 2015. Photo: Sgt Bill Solomou

Reviewing Officer, Commander Forcomd, Maj-Gen Gus McLachlan, speaks with soldiers from 1MP Btn during the transfer of command parade at Gallipoli Barracks in 2018. Photo: Sgt Andrew Eddie

Toll is ready to help you relocate

For more informationFreecall: 1800 819 167www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defenceRead Toll’s “Your Defence Relocation Guide”

Complete your Application for Relocation (AFR) and your Inventory todayGo to www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence to access and complete your AFR and Inventory. Contact your Toll Case Manager or Toll’s Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167 if you have any queries. If you have moved with Toll previously, you will be able to access your previous Inventory of household goods and personal effects at www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence and can update and edit it as required for your new move.

Toll Website - Mobile Responsive and Low Bandwidth versions available. Toll’s website has been updated. Its more intuitive and is also mobile responsive, so you can easily progress your relocation with all your devices. If you are in a location with limited connection, there’s a low bandwidth option available via a link on the lower right-hand side of the website.

What is a Pre-Removal Visit (PRV)?The purpose of the PRV is to clarify all the particular needs of your removal, such as access conditions, whether items need attention, confirmation of the size of your move and your unpack election. If your move requires a PRV your Case Manager will advise you and a Toll Transitions Consultant will call you to arrange a suitable time to visit your home. It’s important you make yourself available for a PRV should your move require one.

Toll Move Plan App - Easy Access to your Itinerary The Toll Move Plan App gives you easy access to the details of your relocation itinerary. The App can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and Apple iTunes App store by searching for Toll Move Plan. You can logon to the Toll Move Plan App using the same valid username and password you use to access Toll Transitions’ website www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence

We look forward to helping you relocate this posting period

Defence is developing a new posting platform called PostingConnect to assist you with your posting experience. PostingConnect will be available soon.

To find out more, visit the PostingConnect website at ext.defence.gov.au/PostingConnect

ON THE night of August 17 1966, 24 Australians were wounded by heavy enemy mortar and rocket fire at

the Nui Dat base. The following day, company-size

patrols were sent out to locate the enemy. That afternoon, D Coy 6RAR were patrolling through the Long Tan rubber plantation, about 5km east of the base, when 11 Platoon contacted a small group of VC.

They were soon in the fight of their lives, against a well-trained and disciplined brigade-size force of Viet Cong and regular Vietnamese forces, for more than four hours in torrential rain.

Immediately, 10 platoon was deployed to assist, but it, too, came under heavy fire in a fighting withdrawal to join the rest of the company.

But the straits were desperate, and as the evening drew in, the platoons were running short of ammunition and facing annihilation.

Artillery based at Nui Dat brought down heavy fire on the attacking force, wiping out rows of the enemy,

and helicopters were dispatched to drop additional ammunition.

Finally, as the enemy gathered for another assault, A Coy 6RAR APCs appeared, raking the enemy with machine-gun fire, and the Viet Cong forces broke off the attack and withdrew.

Seventeen Australians died during the Battle of Long Tan and 25 were wounded, with one later dying of his wounds.

This was the largest number of casualties suffered by Australian forces in one operation since the beginning of the Vietnam War.

For those who served in the Vietnam War (1962-1972), this day came to symbolise the conflict, with returned servicemen unofficially commemorating their fallen comrades on that day each year.

In 1987, after the Welcome Home march, Bob Hawke’s government officially recognised Long Tan Day as Vietnam Veterans’ Day, an annual commemoration for the nearly 60,000 Australians who served in the decade-long war.

Fight of their lives

Governor-General Gen (retd) David Hurley and Mrs Hurley lay a wreath at the Vietnam Memorial in Canberra on Vietnam Veterans’ Day 2020.

Treating the wounded of Delta Company 6RAR. Photo: Australian War Memorial

History10

Fallen comrades are commemorated during Vietnam Veterans’ Day, the Australian Army History Unit’s Miesje de Vogel reports.

Undertake our free, no-obligation preliminary assessment to see where your experience can take you.

Enquiries:T: 1300 99 OPEC E: [email protected]

Turn your military experience into nationally recognised qualifications

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) converts your hard-earned experience into fast-tracked qualifications.

OPEC College is part of an award-winning company with deep links to industry. We offer qualifications from Certificate III to Graduate Diploma within a broad range of faculties.

Get inside the civvy OODA loop.

RTO 41595

September 3, 2020 Historydefence.gov.au/news/armynews 11

THE actions fought in the jungles of Malaya and Borneo post-WWII are seldom spoken of. The annual observance of

Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Day on August 31 was an opportunity to learn about, and pay respect to, those that served.

In June 1948, the Malayan Emergency was declared in response to the growing violence being perpe-trated by Communist terrorists. The Australian Army commitment to the Emergency began in July 1950 when a small contingent of Army officers deployed to Malaya to provide advice and assistance to British authorities.

In 1955, the Australian government committed an infantry battalion and field battery to the Far East Strategic Reserve (FESR) to support the opera-tion. The Australian units committed to the FESR were integrated into the 28th Commonwealth Brigade.

The main role of Australians was to conduct patrols to seek and destroy terrorist camps, deny them access to food and disrupt their access to communities. Most contacts with the enemy were small scale but vicious, with occasional engagements with platoon-sized elements. Twenty-seven Australians soldiers were killed dur-ing the emergency with two Military Crosses and three Military Medals awarded, and one Mentioned in Dispatches.

Confrontation began in January 1963 when armed groups, sponsored by the then Indonesian government, infiltrated into Malaysian Borneo with

the aim of inciting insurrection in opposition to the formation of Malaysia as a unified and independent country. From mid-1964, incursions into Borneo and the Malay Peninsula increased and began to include small groups from the regular Indonesian forces.

Australia’s initial commitment was to agree in principle to the use of the Australian units attached to the FESR in countering incursions if it became necessary. From May 1964, the gov-ernment agreed to deploy an RAE pres-ence to support operations.

Between January and August 1965 1 Sqn SASR operated in Borneo under-taking reconnaissance and ambush missions with 2 Sqn deploying to undertake reconnaissance patrols from January to July 1966.

The operations during the Confrontation were different to those of the Emergency with Australians engaging in contacts with professional Indonesian soldiers in up to company-sized strength groups who were armed with modern weapons, including mor-tars and anti-personnel mines.

As a result, all patrolling under-taken by Australians were at the pla-toon or larger size. SASR troopers who would later serve in Vietnam described operations in Borneo as being more physically demanding because of the nature of the terrain and length of the patrols.

Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Day provides the nation with an opportunity to ensure the sacrifices and achieve-ments of those who served remain in our thoughts.

The Australian Army History Unit’s Paul McAlonan describes the role of Australians during the Malayan Emergency and Confrontation.

In the fight against communist terrorists

Unidentified soldiers, some from 2RAR, prepare to make a night-river crossing in canvas and timber folding boats (folboats) as they set out on a patrol in pursuit of Communist terrorists in the jungle of Northern Malaya.

THE Battle for Australia reminds us of a time when the horrors of war were on the nation’s doorstep. September 1

is a time to remember the sacrifices of those on the battlefront in WWII.

The threat from Japanese forces led to Australia’s largest defence mobilisa-tion in history with nearly one mil-lion Australians serving in the armed forces, and about half seeing overseas service.

In the South-West Pacific Theatre, more than 15,000 soldiers were cap-tured and held prisoner in atrocious conditions. Australia suffered more than 46,000 casualties, including more than 17,000 killed in action.

Modern historians record that though the Japanese considered invad-ing Australia, these intentions were short-lived. However, to the average Australian, this easing of the threat of invasion was not apparent. Particularly as Australians witnessed the Japanese

Defending Australia

bombing of northern cities, the Sydney Harbour midget subma-rine attacks and the bombardment of Sydney and Newcastle from submarines.

Japanese and German subma-rines were also sinking ships close to the coast, including the sinking of the hospital ship Centaur. More than 1000 personnel and civilians were killed on Australian soil and in the adjacent waters, and many more wounded in these attacks.

At the height of the Japanese

advance towards Australia, seen at the time as unstoppable and which led to the loss of the 8th Division, northern communities of Australia were aware the enemy were closer to them. Darwin was four-times closer, a fact driven home by the 64 Japanese air raids.

While there may not have been a real threat of invasion, most Australians believed there was, and mobilised to defend their country with many losing their lives in the process.

The war cemetery at Broome where 26 new graves were added as a result of the Japanese air raids in 1942.

Unidentified men from 24 Construction Squadron RAE working to construct a 70-mile-long section of road through the rainforest of Sabah in North Borneo. Photos: Australian War Memorial

September 3, 2020 Exercise Brolga Rundefence.gov.au/news/armynews12 13

AS 3 Bde’s combined-arms combat teams rotated through a series of scenarios on Exercise Brogla Run, they were watched by several mentors.

During each activity, the combat team commander was mentored by a different 3 Bde CO and visited by the brigade commander and RSM – while CTC’s observer trainers provided overall teachings and observations.

It was a level of mentoring not previously encountered by 2 Cav Regt’s Maj Tom Day.

“I have never seen or heard of a time where command was so engaged,” Maj Day said.

“Because of the nature of the

exercise moving all the way through the spectrum of warfare it prepared our soldiers, officers and junior non-commissioned officers for any type of contingency, from high-end conflict all the way to peace and stability operations.”

Commander 3 Bde Brig Kahlil Fegan took time to observe, provide feedback and coach each combat team commander and their soldiers.

“Talking with our soldiers highlighted how much we appreciate the opportunity to practise and develop skills in a realistic and demanding training environment,” Brig Fegan said.

“For many young soldiers, the

opportunity to operate in a combined-arms combat team is new.

“Certainly the infantry, armoured, engineer and other elements, including MPs from 6 Bde, learnt much from each other and about the value of combined-arms methodology and ideology.”

Brig Fegan was also pleased with assistance from CTC.

“I am very appreciative of their technology and professional support,” he said.

“We are fortunate to be co-located and our relationship with them helped pull together a world-class training event in quick time.”

ROTATING through three lanes at Townsville Field Training Area, 3 Bde combat teams faced a

series of increasingly complex scenarios, including stability and security, obstacle breaching and assaults, as part of Exercise Brolga Run.

Cpl Aiden O’Hanlon, of 2 Cav Regt, said the exercise, which ran from July 20 to August 24, was a chance for his crew to gain

experience with other capabilities. “It was a great opportunity to conduct small-arms training, ensuring we worked with other teams and attachments, which is what we need to be effective at,” Cpl O’Hanlon said.

“It’s always good to work with other capabilities and to see what they bring to the table.”

Commander 3 Bde Brig Kahlil Fegan was impressed with the level of innovation and adaption.

“The breach scenario was the most complex I have experienced in more than 30 years of soldiering,” Brig Fegan said.

Obstacle breaching can be one of the most difficult tasks a combat team can face, because of the number of elements involved.

“Before assaulting and clearing an enemy position, our combined-arms combat teams, specifically their engineer

attachments, had to recon then conduct a live breach on a simulated mine field, a cement tetrahedron obstacle belt and finally a CAT 2 wire obstacle,” Brig Fegan said.

“We were exposed to an array of lessons regarding nesting and synchronising our plans and achieving suppression, obscuration, security, reduction and the conduct of an assault through an obstacle.”

Combined-arms combat is the crux of everything 3 Bde soldiers train for, and Exercise Brolga Run gave them that opportunity, Capt Lily Charles reports.

SKILLS PUT TO THE TEST

On-the-job mentoring for 3 Bde combat teams

A soldier from 3CSSB provides security. Photo: Sgt Eliza Oates

Soldiers from 1MP Btn respond to

civil unrest during stability operations.

Photo: Cpl Brodie Cross

Soldiers from 3RAR cross-load stores at the replenishment point.

Armoured personnel carriers fire through smoke during

Exercise Brolga Run at the Townsville Field Training Area.

Photos: Cpl Daniel Strutt

An armoured personnel carrier opens fire.

3RAR soldiers scan for enemy forces during a blank-fire activity.

*Based on the following assumptions: living in NSW 2560, salary: $70,000 gross p.a., travelling 15,000 kms p.a., lease term: 60 months, using the Employee Contribution Method for FBT purposes. Images shown may not be the exact car that the calculations have been based on. All figures quoted include budgets for finance, fuel, servicing, tyres, maintenance, Vero by Suncorp comprehensive motor insurance, Hydro Platinum Pack and re-registration over the period of the lease. Also includes, for Suzuki, Audi and BMW models only, 2 year Platinum Warranty insurance. Vehicle residual, as set by Australian Taxation Office, payable at the end of lease term. The exact residual amount will be specified in your vehicle quote. Vehicle pricing is correct at the time of distribution but may be subject to change based on availability. † Negotiated Smartleasing buying power discount on chosen vehicle may vary.

Find out how much you could save with a novated car lease.

1300 112 769 | armyleasing.com.au

Request a quote on a car you love to see how much you could save!

Looking for a different car?

Quoted prices include: Finance Rego CTP Fuel Maintenance Insurance

Volkswagen Polo85TSI

$ 319* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $131 OF RUNNING COSTS

save $1,304

on purchase price†

Volkswagen T-Cross85TSI Life 1.0T

$ 346* PER FORTNIGHTINC. $137 OF RUNNING COSTS

save $2,200


$ 428* PER FORTNIGHTINC. $172 OF RUNNING COSTS

Hyundai TucsonActive X

save $4,483


Mitsubishi OutlanderPHEV AWD

save $4,000




Nissan Leaf



save $1,627


Smartleasing ad_ARMY_Start Leasing_Aug 2020.indd 1Smartleasing ad_ARMY_Start Leasing_Aug 2020.indd 1 18/08/2020 2:25:40 PM18/08/2020 2:25:40 PM


Cpl Julia Whitwell

PUTTING one 101-year-old foot in front of the other, long-retired WWII Sgt Bert Le-Merton has pledged to walk 96km to support contemporary veterans.

“I am going to do my best. Put it that way,” he said.

Clocking up 1km to 2km each day, aided by a wheeled walking frame, Bert has already walked more than 15km.

Bert hopes to finish walking the Kokoda Track’s distance by late March, coinciding with Soldier On’s annual fundraising event, March On.

“I’ve got no intention of getting to Kokoda. I figure I am doing it by going around the block maybe an extra time or two,” he said.

No stranger to hard work, Bert left school at 16 for a job in radio assembly, then worked in a button and buckle factory, before starting service life at 21.

“The government had decided there should be a group of trained personnel available if necessary for the defence of Australia and I was one of them,” Bert said.

He marched into Rutherford Camp as a member of the 35th CMF battalion and went on to serve in Egypt, Lybia, Palestine, New Guinea and Borneo.

Bert described his experience as one of the “Rats of Tobruk,” a name given as an insult by the Germans – and taken by Australians as a com-pliment – referring to their tenacity

Walking the distance

Cpl Julia Whitwell

THE Australian War Memorial was empty of its usual crowds on Anzac Day, when pandemic restrictions pared attendance back to a small delegation and even smaller staff.

Visiting the Roll of Honour as he does every day, director Matt Anderson noticed an anomaly below the names on the Afghanistan section.

“Knowing we were closed to the public, I was surprised to see where poppies would normally be wedged there was a poem,” he said.

Written anonymously by a com-mander of two of the fallen, the words reflected on the lives and service of those named.

“I had the honour of serving in Afghanistan. On reading the poem, I had a real sense of the responsibility felt by whoever wrote it, and that they wanted to give the loss some mean-ing,” Mr Anderson said.

“That’s how I felt at the time - a genuine sense of the weight of com-mand and the duty he felt to ensure that they be commemorated in his words, and placed alongside the Roll of Honour. I was moved.”

Convinced “everything here has a story”, Mr Anderson asked his team to find out how the poem got there, eventually finding a member of the Official Histories team placed it for Lt-Col Julian Hohnen, a mentoring team commander in Afghanistan.

Two soldiers he was command-ing, Ptes Grant Kirby and Tomas Dale, were killed in an IED explosion while on patrol on August 20, 2010.

“It wasn’t a normal Anzac Day this year,” Lt-Col Hohnen said.

“I normally place poppies for the blokes, but the AWM was closed and I didn’t have somewhere to go reflect.”

Visiting the AWM had always been Lt-Col Hohnen’s Anzac Day pilgrim-age. Having grown up in Canberra, he saw the Roll of Honour every year from a young age.

“I never thought I’d know – much less, command – anyone on that wall,” he said.

In his poem, Names on a Wall, Lt-Col Hohnen highlighted the signifi-cance of each name scribed.

“It’s deeply personal for everyone, no matter how they knew those indi-viduals,” he said.

“When I read those names, I see the faces of the blokes I knew.

“This poem is a representation of what they, and others mean to me.”

On August 17, almost 10 years since the deaths of Pte Kirby and Pte Dale, Lt-Col Hohnen officially pre-sented his poem to the AWM.

Poem a powerful tribute

Lt-Col Julian Hohnen presents his poem to Matt Anderson, which is printed below.

on limited rations. “Our first actual contact with the German military was on April 4, 1941,” Bert said.

“We were there covering the flanks and were the first Australian infantry battalion to meet the German infantry. We continued in a flanking patrol aspect all the way back to Tobruk on April 10.”

His was the last Australian bat-talion left in Tobruk by October 23, 1941.

“Our convoy came under attack from the Germans. We stayed on until the final breakout and left on December 16, 1941,” he said.

Bert attributes his longevity and health to walking most days of the week, except when it’s raining.

“I keep walking around the block, keep using the brain to do

the crosswords in the paper, read and take an interest in life and don’t sit in front of the telly and rot away,” he said.

Despite being a Rat of Tobruk, he advised young veterans to main-tain a life outside Army.

“Don’t forget your service but live your life and become a civvy again because that is what you are. You may have injuries but live with them as best as you can,” Bert said.

His motivation for walking the 96km is to support young veterans.

“I feel that Soldier On is doing a magnificent job,” he said.

“Everyone out there should be helping to make the life of former personnel a bit better.”

Bert Le-Merton is walking 96km to support contemporary veterans.

“Every day I have cause to stop and think about the 102,800 names on that wall; about the potential prime ministers, poets, clerics, inventors and role mod-els we’ve lost, and how much richer we would be as a nation and a society with-out that loss,” Mr Anderson said.

“But we always need to refresh how we commemorate and what this poem does is provide a fresh lens for how we look at the Roll of Honour.”

Mr Anderson encouraged future poets to take a more conventional route to sharing their thoughts.

“This was an act of spontaneity and it was a one-of-a-kind occurrence. It was all the more powerful because of it,” Mr Anderson said.

Personnel interested in making donations to the AWM should visit www.awm.gov.au/donations

Names on a WallRow upon row, names are inscribed on a wall

And some are familiar, but certainly not all

Beside each name is the campaign, unit and date

It doesn’t say father, son, brother, husband or mate

It doesn’t speak of war, chaos or violence

I guess I’ll think of that during the minute of silence

The wall is simple but it’s there to remind

Of lost men and women, and for those left behind

When I think of campaigns in far flung places

I don’t see names, I just see faces

Of awesome blokes who aren’t here to tell their tale

Like Bewesy, Crash, Kirbs and Dale

And standing there 10 years down the track

I know I’d give anything just to have them back

So this Anzac Day, I will look at the names on the wall

Of each and every one who gave their all

On Saturday at dawn, you can be sure to bet

That this year, and always, I will never forget

Lest we forget

For: Nathan Bewes, Tomas Dale, Grant Kirby and Jared ‘Crash’ MacKinney

TR JANACCOUNTING

For professional taxation & accounting advice

It’s TAX TIME

0488 093428

Professional Tax Returns from only $120

Call

www.TrojanAccounting.com.au

Member of Defence Force family Defence Force specialistDiscuss all ATO approved deductions Don’t miss any investment property claims Know your MSBSBudget for your life

Easy Phone Interviews.

Features16

ABOUT 1700 artillery rounds were blasted downrange by the guns of 4 Regt, RAA, supporting

3 Bde units during field exercises in August.

This was the culmination of lead-up exercise Chau Pha in which eight guns across two bat-teries progressed through a series of dry-fire and movement into a regimental live-fire.

At the final regimental posi-tion, gunners dug to stage two with defences including wire, clay-mores, Mk 47s and machine guns, along with counter-penetration tasks with a quick reaction force and PMVs.

CO 4 Regt, RAA, Lt-Col Pete Allan said regimental training pro-gressed in a way not done for many years.

“We moved as a regiment con-ducting tactical regimental recon-naissance, followed by the guns

deploying into hasty and deliberate positions by day and night,” Lt-Col Allan said.

Guns deployed in all modes, including tight and dispersed posi-tions, with the inclusion of surviv-ability moves.

“We focused on the individual and team skills of our soldiers in an austere environment. This included getting the basics right with dig-ging in at every position, staking machine guns and practising rou-tine,” Lt-Col Allan said.

“It was about ensuring every soldier could operate and employ all equipment properly and indi-vidual skills were not overshad-owed by the big muscle movement of regimental manoeuvre and the more technical skills of gunnery.”

Bdr Harry O’Connor, com-mander Charlie Gun attached to 107 Bty, ran with a crew of nine during the exercise.

This was above the usual mini-

mum crew of seven, but it didn’t make things much easier.

“It’s rigorous work, especially during fire and movement it can be demanding,” Bdr O’Connor said.

“There’s a lot of teamwork, cohesion and priority of work.”

From static positions, 4 Regt then provided live-five support to battle groups Coral and Kapyong and part of 3 Bde’s combined-arms Exercise Long Khanh.

“We had some guys fresh off IETs and it was their first real exposure to live firing,” Bdr O’Connor said.

“To do that in a regimental position would be pretty eye-open-ing for them – seeing and hearing eight guns engage on a target.

“No biggie, but we were the fastest gun in the regiment. I was happy with how they turned out, especially given the guys’ experience.”

Training puts 4 Regt, RAA, to the test with vigorous field exercises, Sgt Max Bree and Sgt Dave Morley report.

Ready for action

4 Regt M777 Light Weight Towed Howitzers engage targets during regimental live-fire training.

A 4 Regt gunner moves to fire an M777 Light Weight Towed Howitzer.

Soldiers from 4 Regt, RAA, gather for the

commanding officer’s inspection in preparation

for Exercise Chau Pha. Photo: Gnr Hayden Farrier

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

Spectrum is a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Registered Tax Agent & hold an Australian Credit Licence.Australian Credit Licence No 476980

REID SWIFT - PrincipalReid is a Chartered Accountant, Tax Agent, Mortgage Broker and Real Estate Agent with over 16 years experience dealing with ADF members.

> Finding the right loan> Finding the right loan> Defence benefits> Defence benefits

> Government Benefits> Government Benefits> Holistic Advice> Holistic Advice

With over three decades of providing property, finance and tax services to Defence Force personnel, let Spectrum assist you to achieve your goals.

GET A LOAN WITH SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS DEFENCE!

CONTACT US FOR A FREE LOAN ASSESSMENT NOW!Online and phone appointments now available

September 3, 2020 Featuresdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 17

INFANTRY officer at HQ 1 Bde, Capt Alan Bretherton, is a firm believer in the importance of gender advisers within the broader plan-

ning of military operations.“A gender adviser is the techni-

cal specialist responsible for advising the senior commander and staff on implementing a gender perspective in the planning, execution and assess-ment processes of operations,” Capt Bretherton said.

“For the ADF, this translates into ensuring we are considering all demographics of local populations in which we operate, in order to set the pre-conditions for enduring peace and stability.”

Recently returned from his Middle East deployment, where part of his role was as a gender adviser, Capt Bretherton said he initially became interested in the role when he attended a Gender in Military Operations brief during the Joint Operations Planner Course.

“At first I thought it would be a brief promoting equality and females in Defence, but it was more than that. It demonstrated the operational impact of considering gender in operations,” he said.

“I was amazed that, based on the statistics and information, not more people were aware of it. From then on I was pretty much a solid advocate.”

Capt Bretherton said people were sometimes surprised to encounter a male gender adviser and that it was good for men to take on the role.

“When I stand up there as a six-foot-two infantry male and tell people this is important, it has a different effect to a female discussing it, par-ticularly when working with other nations that don’t necessarily have the same equality views as Australia,” he said.

Wg-Cdr Jade Deveney is a gender adviser deployed to Operation Okra in Kuwait. She also believes having

A gender perspectiveThese advisers are incorporating gender into the planning for military ops, writes Flt-Lt Chloe Stevenson.

advisers of all genders is important to the effectiveness of the planning role.

“Having male gender advisers is incredibly important to what we do,” Wg-Cdr Deveney said.

“Just as a man cannot pretend to understand my lived experience as a woman in this world, I cannot pretend to understand the lived experience of a man.

“Also, particularly when working within patriarchal societies, a male gender adviser will have access to the leadership and authority structures within the society that I couldn’t access, just as a male gender adviser wouldn’t be able to engage with women in the community that I would be given access to.

“Ideally, if we could deploy a male

and female gender adviser as a team, that would be ultimate, but we don’t have the resources to do that.”

Wg-Cdr Deveney said the role was something she had always been interested in.

“Working in the gender space has always been a passion of mine, partly because our world, systems and struc-tures are so gendered, so to be able

to understand the multi-dimensional aspects of this I find really interest-ing,” she said.

“For me, we talk a lot about how gender can support a return to peace and stability for populations; now I hope we can achieve this for Iraq through supporting greater gender equality across a range of government initiatives and security capabilities.”

Wg-Cdr Jade Deveney and Capt Alan Bretherton deployed to the Middle East Region as gender advisers. Photo: PO Yuri Ramsey

Flt-Lt Melody Earl

FOUR-LEGGED friends are help-ing to keep Australian soldiers and their South Australian police part-ners in the peak of good humour as they maintain their border-post vigil.

Based at Kybybolite, in South Australia’s south-east near Mount Gambier, the dual force of police and Defence are maintaining bor-der controls with Victoria.

Recently their duties were extended to care temporarily for two farm dogs, while their owner recovers in an Adelaide hospital.

One of the pair had wandered away from their farm during their owner’s illness, but fortunately have found themselves in the pres-ence of uniformed friends. They have been affectionately nick-named Morale and Biscuits.

Gnr Liam France of 16 Regt, RAA, said the dogs were wel-comed by all.

“Both dogs have been great company at the check points,” Gnr France said.

“Even community members have stopped by to deliver food, toys and extra firewood to keep the dogs warm.”

A Defence member found Morale wondering on the side of the road. After locating her address from a community member in Naracoorte township, the soldier

In good company

discovered a second dog, Biscuits. It was agreed with residents from the neighbouring property that the police and Defence members would care for the dogs while their owner Barry was in hospital.

Gnr France described the expe-

rience as a major highlight of his service on Operation COVID-19 Assist.

“They are two of the loveliest dogs I’ve ever met, and it’s been great getting to know the wider community,” he said.

Gnr Liam France with farm dog, Biscuits, at the Kybybolite check point, South Australia. Photo: LACW Jacqueline Forrester

REGIS

TERED

TAX A

GENT

Specialising in income tax returns forAustralian Defence Force members for over 30 years

Tax Agent No. 73380000

SYDNEY Level 1, 23 Oxford Rd INGLEBURNPh 02 9829 4188

www.austaxaccountants.com.au

INCOME TAX RETURNS

PROVIDING training based on the main causes of motorcycle accidents – poor defensive riding, cornering

and braking, risk-taking and other vehicles – is the focus of RideSAFE training, aimed at reducing motor-cycle fatalities and injuries to ADF members.

RideSAFE program manager Lt-Col John Duff said motorcycle riders had to be three times more vig-ilant when on the road.

“Jump in a car and you’ve got one hand on the steering wheel, one foot on the throttle and off you go in relatively safe confines and assured by four wheels for grip and braking, and generally little to worry about in terms of visibility and traffic flow,” Lt-Col Duff said.

“On a motorcycle, you need to coordinate both hands and feet, bal-ance and most importantly – because your head is in a helmet – maxim-

ise spacial awareness of everything around you and ride defensively.”

Motorcycles account for 1.2 per cent of passenger-vehicle kilometres travelled, but about 19 per cent of road crash fatalities, according to the Australian Road Deaths Database 2017.

Historically, motorcycle fatalities of Defence members have been about one to two a year, but Lt-Col Duff said since the program started three years ago, none of those completing RideSAFE courses had been killed.

“The RideSAFE budget is a very small investment compared to the direct and indirect costs of losing a member,” he said.

Lt-Col Duff said the biggest chal-lenge was lack of awareness of the program and hoped to mitigate this by ensuring units covered it as part of WHS annual mandatory training.

“Recently I discovered two sol-diers who paid to do a course in

Sydney, which happened to be the same event Defence was attending, because they didn’t know the pro-gram existed,” Lt-Col Duff said.

A number of units or bases such as School of Military Engineering, HMA Ships Hobart and Stirling, and Army School of Transport, have made it a unit activity, with the ADFA getting all cadets on a course over 12 months in 2018.

“Some COs have bulk-booked their motorcyclists onto our courses, which is a good approach,” Lt-Col Duff said.

The Defence-funded advanced motorcycle training offers two lev-els of training for riders with limited experience, or returning riders want-ing to improve their skills and con-fidence, and experienced and more confident riders.

For further information search ‘RideSAFE’ on the DPN. Course registration is via Defence Campus and by searching ‘ridesafe’.

ADF learns to RideSAFE

Features18

RideSAFE training is reducing motorcycle fatalities and injuries to ADF members, Cpl Veronica O’Hara writes.

Instructor Tim Walker provides WO2 Brett Radcliffe feedback on emergency braking technique.

RIDING on a racetrack for motor-cycle safety training gave WO2 Brett Radcliffe confidence in his riding ability and new bike.

Participating in the RideSAFE program last month, emergency braking was a skill WO2 Radcliffe wanted to learn for riding around Darwin.

“I learnt how to stop at short notice because of people pulling out with no indication, as well as body posture and positioning the bike for cornering,” WO2 Radcliffe said.

“The roads here are straighter and not as windy or bendy. There’s also more gravel on the highways from trucks.”

The HQRFSG marine special-ist manager recently upgraded to a Harley-Davidson 2020 FXLRS and said the course was ideal for getting to know his bike.

“You don’t want to use the rear brake – you can slide the back

Confidence grows after training

WO2 Brett Radcliffe negotiates a corner during training.

tyre out and slip and lose control,” WO2 Radcliffe said.

“Using the front gives you more control on bends at a safe speed. On the track I was able to practise it for trail braking and now use it more.”

The program is run by BikeYou at Hidden Valley Raceway.

“The staff’s experience in dif-ferent motorsports, combined with being on a proper track, gave me confidence to ride safely and

know my bike’s capability,” WO2 Radcliffe said.

“I was able to push my bike and know how it handles.”

After completing the level-one course three years ago, he was ready to learn next-level skills.

“I hadn’t realised I’d developed some of them over time,” WO2 Radcliffe said.

“The whole day was an excellent opportunity to learn and improve.”

WO2 Brett Radcliffe and ADF participants conduct low-speed bike handling drills during a RideSAFE training program at Howard Springs, NT. Photos: PO Peter Thompson

PHILLIP DAHLERACCOUNTANT/TAX AGENT

The services provided are:

• Completion & Lodgement of Personal Tax Returns• Bookkeeping and General Accounting Services• Tax and Business Advice• Home and Business Loans• Completion & Lodgement of ABN applications• Completion & Lodgement of monthly and quarterly BAS statements

To make a booking please contact us on;

Tax Agent No. 64785002

Phone: 02 4648 3910Fax: 02 4647 7087 Email: [email protected]

PO Box 437, Narellan NSW 25671300 763 575

or visit us online atwww.phatreturns.com.au

Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a great tax return every yearPhone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment

• Investment properties• Members who have served overseas• Late lodgement of tax returns• Members who have been medically discharged

We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities, including:

Do you want a

PHAT Tax Return?

Proud sponsor of Army Football

DEFENCE FORCE TAX SPECIALISTS

September 3, 2020 Personneldefence.gov.au/news/armynews 19

Alex DeValentin

A NEW role in the ADF is working with units and command to help mem-bers transition to civilian life.

As one of the Defence Community Organisation’s new Military Transition Support Officers (MTSOs), WO1 Gary Meyers is a reservist pio-neering the new role to build relation-ships between units and Defence’s ADF transition team to help improve support for ADF members and their families leaving the Army.

“I took on this role because I believe I have a lot of experience within Defence personnel manage-ment and wanted to share this knowl-edge to support transitioning ADF members,” WO1 Meyers said.

“My work involves promoting retention options elsewhere in the service spectrum to balance military service with family or lifestyle com-mitments.

“I ensure commanders understand their role in supporting transitioning members and promote the wide range of transition support available.”

WO1 Meyers and the team of MTSOs around the country are work-ing to shift perceptions by being the middle person in uniform.

He said communicating with com-mand as a uniformed officer could be more successful because of shared experience and culture.

“As an MTSO, I feel I’m helping bridge the gap and change the percep-tion of what can be a positive experi-ence,” WO1 Meyers said.

“We know that a member’s per-ception of the larger organisation is influenced greatly by the relationship they had with their last unit.

“We want people to feel comfort-able transferring to a different service category or re-engaging at a later date, even for part-time work.”

WO1 Meyers said when he left the Regular Army, the transition support available to members was limited.

However, the introduction of the Defence Force Transition Program in January this year had seen a boost in the transition services available to members and their families.

“Defence is now offering a needs-based program, with services tailored to meet your individual needs, includ-ing some that are available for up to 24 months post-transition,” WO1 Meyers said.

“Many components, like the Job Search Preparation workshops, are available to a member or their partner

at any time in their career. As MTSOs we can provide members and com-manders with knowledge about the process and support that can assist with transition.”

The biggest tip WO1 Meyers had for Army members looking to transi-tion from Defence was to plan ahead and do your research.

“Attend the ADF Member and Family Transition Seminars, do the programs and talk to your local transi-tion centre,” WO1 Meyers said.

“The staff in the ADF transition centres are highly motivated and provide great advice for all personnel thinking about transitioning.”

DCO has now established MTSOs around Australia to liaise with local command at all levels to support their understanding of the transition pro-cess and support programs available to members and their families.

There are reservist MTSO posi-tions available in several locations. See ForceNet or contact [email protected] to find out more.

More information is available on the Defence Community Organisation website at www.defence.gov.au/dco

Easing road to civvy street

Military Transition Support Officers are helping commanders manage member transition. Photo: LAC John Solomon

DEFENCE Force Recruiting (DFR) saw a 38 per cent increase in applications between April and June compared to the same time last year.

This was an additional 6870 applications, providing a broader pool to fill existing positions.

DFR is now working with these applicants to assess their options and suitability.

Potential recruits can now engage through virtual events, information sessions, online apti-tude testing, candidate engagement software and career coaching via telephone.

Director Military Recruiting Capt Jan Noonan, RAN, said the increase in applications were attributed to a range of factors.

“DFR campaigns combined with the ADF undertaking signifi-

cant work closer to home, and the pandemic itself, will all be fac-tors,” Capt Noonan said.

“We’ve seen an increase in applications from females, a demographic notably affected by COVID-19’s impact on the Australian workforce.”

Recruit school intakes remain consistent and based on course availability. To date there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among those recruited.

“This reflects Defence’s imple-mentation of practical and sustain-able health measures in accordance with latest government advice,” Capt Noonan said.

“It’s also thanks to the steps recruits, their family, friends and wider community have made to ensure our collective health and safety.”

Applications increase for ADF careers

An appointment ceremony held at the Defence Force Recruiting Centre, Sydney. Photo: LS Leo Baumgartner

Increases by state and rolesThe states with the greatest increase in applications: Victoria – 63 per cent SA – 45 per cent ACT – 43 per cent NSW – 40 per cent

The roles with the highest increase in applications: Army Administration assistant

(command support clerk)

Driver Warehouse coordinator CommandoArmy Reserve Medic (combat medical

attendant) Administration assistant

(command support clerk) Commissioning course officer

(OCC) Chef (cook)

ADF ARRTS ProgramIt’s on again! Applications are now open for ADF ARRTS Program 20.1, which will run 01 - 27 November 2020 at the University of Canberra, in a rank and uniform free environment.

This innovative arts-based program assists permanent ADF and Reservist personnel facing health and well-being challenges, or seeking to ‘re-set’ themselves by rebuilding their confidence and resilience.

The four-week residential program comprises three artistic streams: visual arts; music and rhythm; and, creative writing.

Applications close 28 September 20

For an application, email [email protected] or visit www.defence.gov.au/jcg/arrts

Training20

Capt James Hook

WHEN Recruit Pte Luke Nona first heard about the Army Indigenous Development Program (AIDP), he jumped at the chance to join.

The AIDP is a pathway for Indigenous Australians who wish to join the Army, but who do not meet the general-entry standards.

Pte Nona said there were a lot of Indigenous people wanting to join the Army, but struggle because of their schooling.

“This is my third time trying out for the Defence Force,” Pte Nona said.

“My schooling let me down in the first two attempts.

“But this time, the recruiting officer asked if I wanted to do the AIDP.”

At 33, Pte Nona is the oldest graduate from Intake 15 of the AIDP in Darwin.

C o m m a n d e r R e g i o n a l F o r c e Surveillance Group (RFSG) Col John Papalitsas runs the program in Darwin.

He said the AIDP was critical to the development of Army’s cultural capability.

“It’s also important to the RFSG’s mis-sion of protecting the border and closing the gap,” Col Papalitsas said.

The AIDP graduation for Intake 15 was held in June at RFSG Training and

Education Centre (RTEC) at Defence Establishment Berrimah.

RTEC will host two five-month resi-dential AIDP courses each year, and a variety of career development and special-ist courses for members of Regional Force Surveillance Units.

OC Indigenous Development Wing Maj Steven Parker said the AIDP was a lifeline for those Indigenous men and women who sign up.

“Every single recruit on this course was told ‘no’ by Defence Force Recruiting when it came to direct entry,” Maj Parker said.

“This program allowed them to rectify the shortfall, whether it be related to edu-cation, aptitude, fitness or resilience.”

He said there was a noticeable devel-opment over the course.

“Some step up and become leaders,” Maj Parker said.

“All of them develop levels of resil-ience and fill out physically.”

The next step for the recruits is Kapooka and the Army’s 80-day basic training program.

Pte Nona said he was already thinking ahead.

“We’ve had a head start so we’ll engage with the other recruits and help them on their way,” he said.

Cultural capability

Recruit Pte Luke Nona graduated from the Army Indigenous Development Program at the Regional Force Surveillance Group Training and Education Centre, Darwin. Photo: PO Peter Thompson

Cpl Veronica O’Hara

TOWNSVILLE-based WO2 Clive Keam is drawing on skills as a former commando to train air crews on how to survive in hostile territories in the Middle East.

Since retiring as a commando, WO2 Keam has taken up a reservist role instructing at the Combat Survival Training School in Townsville.

“It’s totally different to my old job, but it suits me perfectly,” WO2 Keam said.

Deployed to the Middle East on Operation Accordion as a Survive Evade Resist Escape specialist, WO2 Keam provided refresher training to air-crews on what to do if they’re captured or if an aircraft lands in a hostile area.

WO2 Keam likens his position to an insurance policy.

“It’s an investment if an unfortunate situation occurs – I am here to provide that policy cover,” he said.

WO2 Keam said crews are trained extensively in how to use their handheld

survival radios to summon rescuers and direct them to the right location.

“I get them to use it, talk through their communications plan and all the procedures they have to follow if they do become isolated or involved in a per-sonnel recovery event,” he said.

Team work, training and good pro-cesses and equipment are all essential for success.

“When procedures are correct, this means it’s predictable, so the personnel recovery force can predict what they’re going to do and get people out quickly,” WO2 Keam said

“I’ve also got aviation life support, intelligence and operations cells getting involved, and when explaining certain intricacies of the communica-tions and evasion plans, I see their, ‘Ah ha, that’s what that means’.

“But it’s when they fly out on their missions that the penny really drops – they take it seriously because they’re flying over some pretty nasty areas.

“What I get back from the training is gratitude, and that speaks volumes.”

Ex-commando delivers lesson on survival

WO2 Clive Keam conducts radio training with pilots while deployed to the Middle East. Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy

September 3, 2020 Fundefence.gov.au/news/armynews 21

Quick-fire questions

Answers

1. Yuri Gagarin. 2. Indonesia. 3. Vincent Van Gogh. 4. Ovine. 5. Little worms. 6. 300. 7. Venice. 8. Lapels. 9. Saturn. 10. Pommel.

1. Who was the first man to return safely from space?2. Which country has more volcanos than any other?3. Which famous artist cut his own ear off?4. If cattle are bovine, what are sheep? 5. Vermicelli pasta literally translates as what in Italian?

6. What is the perfect score in bowling?7. The Golden Lion is awarded at which film festival?8. Notch, peak and shank are different types of what?9. Which planet is famous for its rings?10. What is the front of a saddle called?

Sgt Sebastian Beurich

I’M GOING to start this review by declaring a conflict of interest: Horizon: Zero Dawn has been one of my favourite games since it launched on Playstation 4 in 2017.

That’s right, two cardinal sins; I’m a fanboy and it’s a port.

Hear me out: Guerrilla Games put a lot of work into crafting the storyline for this game, with everything in the environment contributing to the rich nar-rative which paints a picture of post-apocalyptic Earth where rogue machines have taken over, seeking to exterminate humanity.

You play as Aloy, an outcast of the Nora tribe which inhabits the “sacred lands”, fostered by Rost, another outcast. As the story progresses you leave the tribe’s homeland, discovering what hap-pened to the “old ones” along the way.

Early on, the game establishes how an advanced civilisation faced cata-strophic events, but it’s only as you work through the extent of the crisis they faced, and how Aloy fits into remaking civilisation, that the story opens up.

Along the way, collectable and even random “datapoints” scatted around add brushstrokes to the picture of human-ity’s golden age and how it was brought to ruin.

The storyline and environment are one of the best parts of this game. It’s easy to immerse yourself into a future which, based on the progression of tech-nology, could easily eventuate.

The main characters are relatable – Aloy’s relationship with foster par-ent Rost, for example, feels genuine and when events develop around the “Proving”, you’ll easily empathise with Aloy.

As you travel around broken over-grown ruins give a glimpse into the past, as bigger, more heavily armed machines seek to stifle your progress.

For a game over three years old, you’d expect there to be minimal bugs – and there are – but the port-ing process, as with many, wasn’t the smoothest.

I luckily wasn’t affected by many of the widely reported bugs and glitches at launch time, but I did notice some control issues, where the game seem-ingly misses inputs entered in quick succession.

I often didn’t notice this during nor-mal game play, only – frustratingly – in the middle of intense, multi-machine battles, where missing an input and standing still for a second or two result-ed in a preventable death.

But the game is as beautiful on PC as it was on launch on PS4, with s tunning v is tas and in teres t ing environments.

If you’re weary of the port, or put off by some criticism, wait a month or two for patches to iron out most issues and benefit from the inevitable price drop.

If you’re able, the PS4 complete edi-tion can be had for $24.95, a third of the price, a steal for one of the best games of this generation.

The wake of machines

PC Version of Horizon: Zero Dawn.

What is the perfect score in bowling? (Q6) Photo: Michelle McEwen on Unsplash.

Unit Plaques Unit Plaques & Trophies& Trophies

Australian Australian Army Army Approved Approved ManufacturerManufacturer

07 3408 2444 07 3408 2444 email: [email protected]: [email protected]

• Glassware • Insignia • Badges • Keyrings• Glassware • Insignia • Badges • Keyrings

www.unitplaques.com.auwww.unitplaques.com.au

Sport22

Flt-Lt Chloe Stevenson

PERSONNEL at Australia’s main operating base in the Middle East region have complet-ed an incredible 1000km of non-stop running for a 10-hour period.

The Dusk-Till-Dawn fun-run involved teams of four, swapping in and out continu-ously from 7pm to 5am the following day.

HQ JTF633 Educational Officer Capt Amanda Jenner said the event exceeded hopes.

“With pandemic restrictions causing the closure of the gym, and other restrictions being implemented for social events, person-nel from the base started developing creative

ways to exercise and maintain social connec-tions,” Capt Jenner said.

“This was one of many challenges that has been completed, and continue to be run, even with some of the previous restrictions easing.”

Forty runners plus support crew took part.“The results were incredible, with the par-

ticipants running a collective total of 1073km in the 10-hour period,” Capt Jenner said.

Despite the competition, teams supported each other throughout the night.

“These types of events build and maintain morale,” Capt Jenner said.

“There was a certain energy, buzz and healthy banter around the camp in the lead-up to the event and a connection with people

post-event, knowing that we had all been through the challenge together.”

Executive Officer for Air Task Group Sqn-Ldr Andrew Fisher ran a total of 27km, while his team, “Hot Weather Working Dress”, com-pleted 117km.

“It was a great chance to do something that we all love with like-minded people on deployment,” Sqn-Ldr Fisher said.

“Everyone was cheering others on, espe-cially if they were struggling, and when someone was looking really strong. There were some impressive runners that took part.

“There was a good buzz in the air, lots of banter and a constant supply of lollies to keep us all motivated.”

Running from dusk till dawnAbove left, Sqn-Ldr Andrew Fisher competes in the Dusk-till-Dawn fun-run in the Middle East region and, above right, Pte Kate Mckay marks off runners as they pass a checkpoint. Photos: Cpl Tristan Kennedy

Cpl Veronica O’Hara

IMAGINE juggling and wrestling at the same time – this is how Capt Jemma Osmand likens her favourite sport.

“Water polo is like trying to juggle and stay afloat by holding onto some-one – without the referee knowing you’re holding them underwater by your feet – and trying to score a goal, all at the same time,” Capt Osmand said.

“A lot of people compare water polo to rugby in water.”

The ADF Water Polo Association vice-president started playing with

Defence a year after joining Army in 2008, finding it the hardest sport she’s ever played.

“I think that’s why I find it so addictive,” Capt Osmand said.

“It takes a lot of skill and fitness – even if you are fit coming into comp, you’ll take a few days to weeks to recover afterwards.”

Her favourite position in attack is the point position.

“From there, I can help the less-experienced players, control the attack and direct play. I love an outside shot too – I would probably shoot from anywhere in the pool,” Capt Osmand said.

Growing up in Albury-Wodonga and currently posted in the area, Capt Osmand has swum since she was four and competitively from about five.

Her affinity for water and sport comes from family connections to the sport and from having grown up on a property and swimming in their dam and the local pool.

Capt Osmand switched to water polo at age 14 because she was sick of waiting for her brother.

“Swimming training was before water polo so my sister and I had to sit around and wait for him to finish. One day, we’d had enough and decided to jump in,” she said.

Both Capt Osmand and her sister Lt Melissa Osmand have regularly represented Army and Defence in the sport since enlisting, four years apart.

“Melissa’s only a year older, so it’s fantastic to see her and catch up at inter-service and country champion-ships now we’re posted in different locations,” Capt Osmand said.

Capt Osmand’s most cherished memory is from 2010, the year the ADF Water Polo Association women’s side came second in the Australian Country Championships in Albury.

She had played in the competition many times as a junior, but it was her first year representing Defence.

“That was the best result we’ve ever had,” Capt Osmand said.

“And we’ve only ever matched it once since, in 2016, so it’s pretty special.”

The association’s annual competi-tions include the Australian Country Championships , Defence Bank Kapooka 5s, Inter-service Carnival and, for the first time this year, the Canberra Cup, which was re-sched-uled to November.

Further information can be found at: http://collab/vcdf/org/ADC/ADFSC/ADWPA/SitePages/Home.aspx or via email at [email protected]

Hard but fun

Capt Jemma Osmand looks for a team mate to receive the ball during a water polo game at the Australian Country Water Polo Championships in 2013. Photo: LS Helen Frank

Sgt Dave Morley

AN AFL club is like a family and can bring communities together like no other, according to Brisbane Lions AFLW player and 7CSSB Transport Section Commander Cpl Kate Lutkins.

Cpl Lutkins, who has been in the Army for six years, was drafted by Brisbane Lions in the first AFLW draft in 2016 and is signed on to the club until 2022.

“I was excited to just get the one year of opportunity,” Cpl Lutkins said.

“To still be playing four years on with a few more ahead of me, I don’t take for granted and I play each game like it’s my last.”

This year was her fourth with the club and she has proudly played all her side’s 30 games in the AFLW.

“I love not only the competitive-ness, physicality and endurance of the game, but the level of respect and sportsmanship that is a part of it,” she said.

A memorable highlight for Cpl Lutkins was the first game Brisbane Lions played against Melbourne at Casey Fields.

“It was a day to remember. Not only was it our first game, but tor-rential weather forced the game to be paused during one of the quar-ters,” she said.

Cpl Lutkins was also “super excited” to have signed on until 2022.

“We will be moving to our new

home out at Springfield for that season,” she said.

“I’m very proud to be from Ipswich and have the opportunity to play out there in my home city.

“Ideally I would love to keep playing for a few more years or however long my body will allow.

“I would also love to stay involved with the club after I retire.”

Cpl Lutkins has been supported by Defence since being drafted, doing her best to maintain Army and AFLW commitments.

“I’ve been fortunate in the regard that the ADF has allowed me to stay in Brisbane, however, I’m definitely ready for a change of scenery once I retire from AFLW,” she said.

The Brisbane Lions website describes Cpl Lutkins as, “A superb defender, almost the perfect mix of being able to lockdown an opponent, but also run off them and create offensively”.

Cpl Lutkins is currently deployed to Melbourne on Operation COVID-19 Assist, sup-porting the Department of Health and Human Services with data entry to help with contact tracing, as well as other support jobs.

While in Melbourne, Cpl Lutkins “attended” her club’s Best and Fairest Awards Day via Zoom.

She was awarded Runner-Up Best and Fairest and Players’ Player and earlier in the year she was honoured with being named in the AFLW All Australian team.

Still a roaring success

Cpl Kate Lutkins kicks the ball in an AFLW game as Jacqui Yorston, of the Gold Coast Suns, attempts a smother. Photo courtesy of Brisbane Lions

Sportdefence.gov.au/news/armynewsSeptember 3, 2020 23

September 3, 2020

SPORT

Tough defender hasn’t missed

a gameROARINGSUCCESS

Brisbane Lions player Cpl Kate Lutkins, right, contests the ball during an AFLW game against Fremantle. Photo courtesy of Brisbane Lions

force protection - department of defence · for the second time during a year-long trial between...

Documents