AIR FVol. 52, No. 19 October 14, 2010 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

RCERCE0 The

Getting Getting up to up to speedspeedFLTLT Skye Smith

WITH the new Super Hornets safely home at 1SQN, F-111 crews from 6SQN are in the US under-taking their conversion training to ready for the arrival of their first jets later this year.

Four pilots and four air com-bat officers are completing four months of intensive training with the US Navy Fleet Replenishment Squadron VFA-122.

OC 82WG GPCAPT Steven Roberton said former F-111 pilots and air combat officers (NAV) undertake a modified syllabus for previous tactical jet experienced crews to convert to the Super Hornet.

“The course was based on the US Navy F-14 Tomcat conversion,

F-111 crews make the Rhino leap

but was customised by RAAF to suit our requirements,” he said.

The first component of the train-ing includes instrument flights, general flying circuits, emergency handling and general systems knowledge before crews learn some of the more advanced aspects of the aircraft and its systems.

The crews will then move into the basic all-weather intercept phase, formation training, air-to-ground phase and low level training phase. Here, they will develop their skills for close air support and defensive counter air.

“The air-to-air phase involves basic fighter manoeuvres and leads into air combat manoeuvring with 2v1 and 2v2, before working up to 2vUnknown intercepts,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

Aircrew will fly around 50 hours in the Super Hornet by the time they complete their training at Naval Air Station Lemoore in California.

“When they come back to Australia they will need to do addi-tional work to get their skills to a ‘C’ Category standard,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

Former F/A-18 pilots can convert to the Rhino in about five flights.

“Hornet pilots converting on to the Rhino is relatively easy due to the high levels of handling and sys-tems layout commonality between the aircraft,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

The leading edge fighter advanced technology on the Super Hornet means the two-seat functions can be performed simultaneously.

CONTINUED, PAGE 2

INSIDE

WILLIAMTOWN AIR SHOW: GRAPPLING WITH A CHANGING FACE – CENTRESPREAD

OPERATION PAKISTAN ASSIST II

FACE OF THE FUTURE: A 1SQN Super Hornet flying over the Woomera Test Range during Exercise Surf Rider. Photo: LAC Glynn Jones

CAF AIRSMHL Mark Binskin sees first-hand the contribution Air Force personnel are making in flood-ravaged Pakistan.

PAGES 2, 4 AND 5

INDIGENOUS HIGH ACHIEVER

VICTIM’S HAPPY REUNION

HORNET MARKS ITS 25TH

P6

P3

P7

2 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FNews

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FROM PAGE 1

“Having two operators on the Super Hornet allows us to exploit the new range of systems available,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

The Super Hornet is equipped with a digital flight control system, 11 different weapons stations and two additional wing store stations, which will support a full range of armaments.

These include AIM-9X Sidewinder, AMRAAM, air-to-air missiles, guided air-to-ground weapons and free-fall air-to-ground bombs. The aircraft can also carry the joint direct attack munition and joint stand-off weapon.

“The Weapon Systems Officer (Air Combat Officer) has much more to do on the Super Hornet compared with the F-111.”

The US Navy has been instructing the first Australian crews for the past 18 months. More than 50 technicians and 12 aircrew from 1SQN have com-pleted initial training with VFA-122 at Lemoore.

“We have developed an outstanding relationship with the United States Navy over the past couple of years and we are looking forward to continuing this strong bond as we continue to train our crews in the states,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

Now back in Australia, 1SQN crews are beginning to help design the Super Hornet Operational Conversion course for Initial Fighter Course graduates.

Milskil has been contracted to develop and maintain the aircrew training system for the Super Hornet in addition to the delivery of all ground training and simu-lator activities.

“The Super Hornet Operational Conversion course will leverage off 2OCU’s training program for the F/A-18 Hornets,” GPCAPT Roberton said.

The first two maintenance teams trained in the US and have been delivering technical training in Australia since January. Maintenance training ranges from eight to 12 weeks depending on the trade and utilises the Visual Environment Maintenance Trainer (VEMT).

Australia is the first country outside the US to begin training with the VEMT, which familiarises ground staff with the aircraft in both theory and practice.

AIR FORCE personnel deployed to Pakistan to assist with the re-lief effort had a special visitor on October 6 when CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin arrived there to get a first-hand look at Australia’s re-lief efforts.

A u s t r a l i a n H i g h Commissioner to Pakistan Tim George, and Deputy Chief of Navy, RADM Davyd Thomas accompanied him.

During his visit, CAF was given a tour of the Camp Cockatoo health facility at Kot Addu, where he was met by the Commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) 636, WGCDR Ross Wadsworth.

His tour of the camp included visiting the day wards and pathol-ogy and pharmacy departments as well as the new Air Force Digital Imaging X-Ray system – the first deployment of this system over-seas, which has greatly enhanced the capability to produce better quality imaging for patients.

He also spoke with many of the Air Force and other personnel deployed on Operation Pakistan Assist 11. He addressed the assem-bled JTF personnel and then the assembled Air Force personnel separately.

AIRMSHL Binskin said the visit was an excellent opportunity to view the Air Force’s deploya-ble health capability in action and to personally thank the Air Force-led military team for their efforts.

F-111 crews make the Rhino leap

CAF’s Pakistan

“The pe r sonne l o f t he Australian Medical Task Force are providing an enormous help-ing hand to local residents who have lost so much”, AIRMSHL Binskin said.

“The victims of this disaster have time and again shown their gratitude to our people through their smiles and tears.

“Each member of the Op Pakistan Assist II should be proud as I am of their efforts – well done.”

visitvisit

During his visit, CAF also met the Pakistan Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff, ACM Rao Qamar Suleman and Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, ADM Noman Bashir.

“The success of Operation Pakistan Assist II is due to the close cooperation with the Pakistan Armed Forces,” CAF said.

Spotlight on Pakistan Assist

• There’s no let up• You’re not alone • Moving the stores

Pages 4-5

JOB WELL DONE: Top, CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin addresses all Air Force members of Joint Task Force 636 during his visit to Camp Cockatoo. Above, talking to the nurse FLTLT Lynda Henderson in the Australian Medical Task Force health centre.Photos: PO Damian Pawlenko

JOB WELL DONE:

Minister is on board NEW Minister for De-fence Materiel, Jason Clare, has wasted no time in coming to grips with his portfolio as he visited RAAF Base Amberley on Septem-ber 29.

Accompanied by local Member for Blair Shayne Neumann, his purpose was to inspect the new F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter aircraft based at there.

“ T h e S u p e r Hornet fighter jets are Australia’s first new combat aircraft in 25 years. Based here at Amberley, they are a leap forward in capa-b i l i ty for the Ai r Force,” Mr Clare said.

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Bersama Padu takes flight

Andrew Stackpool

WHEN LAC Michael Wheeler first saw 10-year-old Jai Eason he was bleeding profusely, his skull partly torn open and three ribs exposed after being struck by a car while crossing the road.

That was on March 25.On September 17 they were reu-

nited when Jai and his mother, Mel Eason, were among 380 people who attended the 3SQN squadron family day.

Assisted by squadron CO WGCDR Terry Van Haren, the boy was given the opportunity to get up close to a Hornet aircraft.

Squadron administration officer FLGOFF Emma Craven-Griffiths said it was a fantastic opportunity for Jai to see what LAC Wheeler did for a job.

WGCDR Van Haren said LAC Wheeler should be commended for the

courage and compassion he showed a member of the community in need.

“His quick reaction and calm com-posure during the incident has likely saved the life of young Jai,” he said.

The drama began on the after-noon of March 25 when LAC Wheeler and his partner Fiona Sinkinson were travelling through Wallsend, Newcastle. As they did

3SQN reunion3SQN reunionHappy sequel to near tragedy

FLTLT Skye Smith

EIGHT F/A-18 Hornets and 125 person-nel from 3SQN have arrived in Malaysia to join air, ground and naval forces from Singapore, Malaysia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom for Exercise Ber-sama Padu 2010.

The three-week exercise started on October 11 and will continue until October 29, with assets from the participating nations battling it out on the Malaysian Peninsula and in the South China Sea.

Led by CO 3SQN WGCDR Terry Van Haren, the Hornet pilots from RAAF Base Williamtown will practise air combat tactics under the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) with the other participating nations.

“The FPDA represent almost 40 years of co-operation and continue to show their relevance for the regional

strategic environment,” WGCDR Van Haren said.

“Australia maintains a close defence relationship with Singapore and Malaysia, both bilaterally and through participation in the FPDA.

“Exercise Bersama Padu also pro-motes a shared understanding of proce-dures for air and maritime operations, the protection of the marine environ-ment and disaster relief management,” he said.

Training in exercises such as Bersama Padu 2010 is important for Air Force personnel to hone key skills, work as a combined force and build regional relationships with participating nations.

Exercise Bersama Padu, which means ‘together united’ in Malay, is the third in the series of Bersama multi-lateral activities involving the forces of the Five Power Defence Arrangements members this year.

so, the car in front of them struck the young boy as he crossed the road.

LAC Wheeler, an aircraft tehni-cian, has undergone extensive first aid training during his career with the RAF and RAAF while Ms Sinkinson is a nurse.

The pair immediately parked their car on the side of the road and assisted Jai.

Ignoring the danger from passing vehicles, the couple closed the scalp wound up and then applied a bandage, stemming the flow of blood.

They then repeated the process with his other wounds.

With the boy’s wounds stabilised, LAC Wheeler began directing traf-fic around the scene while arranging other motorists to move their cars and form a cordon around the boy who was still lying on the ground, thereby

further reducing the risk of his being struck by another vehicle.

Shortly afterwards, an ambulance arrived and Jai was transported to the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for further treatment.

The 3SQN squadron family day was intended to provide families of serving members, past serving mem-bers and 3SQN Association members the opportunity to view 3SQN opera-tions first hand as well as celebrate the squadron’s 94th anniversary.

The day included presentations, birthday celebrations and displays.

Jai’s mother expressed gratitude for LAC Wheeler, and was hopeful that Jai would consider a career in the Air Force.

“It has been good for Jai now that he has a future and at his age he can come here to the base and see what is possible,” Ms Eason said.

WELCOME, JAI: Left, LAC Wheeler and Jai are reunited at the 3SQN family day as Jai gets the feel of a Hornet cockpit.

Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

FAMILY FUN: Above, 3SQN members and family enjoy the day; left, AC Nicholas Lund and 3SQN Association member Tom Russell cut the cake.

Photos: LACW Amy Trebilco and LACW Katharine Pearson

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4 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FFperations

Pakistan mission just doesn’t let up We’re here:

HELPING HANDS: Above, LAC Fletcher Jackson, right, from 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron and FLTLT Helen Webb from 3 Expeditionary Health Squadron take a blood sample from a Pakistani boy to test for malaria and other diseases while, inset, SGT Edwin Minns, from 3EHS, monitors a critically-ill baby at Camp Cockatoo. Photos: POCIS Damian Pawlenko

IN its first month of operation, the Australian Medical Task Force (AMTF) at Camp Cockatoo providing primary medical assistance to victims of the Pakistan floods had seen 6000 patients.

That number is growing each day, accoding to SQNLDR Simon McLaughlin.

“We have been treating more than 250 patients per day and it has been very rewarding to provide this assistance where it is needed the most,” he said.

The Australian Camp Cockatoo health facility at Kot Addu, Pakistan, marked a month of operation on October 2.

The facility comprises about 140 ADF medical and support specialist military personal as well as Australian civilian AusAID health specialists who have been providing primary health care.

“About 35 are ADF heal th personnel and 17 are Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) members,” SQNLDR McLaughlin said.

“It has been very encouraging to see how effectively these military and civilian specialists have come together to deliver primary medical care in such adverse conditions.”

More than 2000 people are estimated to have died and more than a million homes have been destroyed since the flooding began in July.

The United Nations estimates that more than 21 million people are injured or homeless as a result of the flooding,

AUSMAT team leader Dr Ian Norton said the biggest challenge had been keeping up with the supply of medications.

“Nobody else sees these kinds of numbers and we are seeing them in a tent, in a field, in Pakistan.

“That is a challenge on its own but

the logistics of keeping up with that tempo has been our biggest to date.”

WGCDR Ross Wadswor th , commander of the ADF element said every day provided a new set of chal-lenges.

“Every day we find a new set of solutions and continue the important task of providing primary medical assistance to victims of the Pakistan floods,” he said.

‘Every day we find a new set of solutions and continue the important task of providing primary medical assistance ...

5 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FF

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perations

you are not aloneCPL Zenith King

MEDICAL assistants deployed on Op-eration Pakistan Assist II are providing life saving treatment to patients at the Australian health facility at Kot Addu.

There are nine medical assistants deployed to Pakistan as part of the Australian Medical Task Force pro-viding primary health care to the flood-affected nation.

LAC Fletcher Jackson from 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron, said he had never dealt with these types of illnesses before.

“I have gained so much experi-ence as we have been dealing a lot with geriatrics and pediatrics in the male tent, which we don’t see back at home,” LAC Jackson said

“Because we are not exposed to the same type of illnesses we didn’t know what they were susceptible to, so it took a lot of training with AusAID.

“During the early stages I stuck very closely to some of the doctors until I got a feel for what conditions the local nationals were presenting with.”

LAC Jackson said the hardest part was the high turn over.

“More than a hundred patients come into the male tent every day.

“We don’t often see reviews so we will see someone, treat them and they

leave. Not knowing what their future holds can be quite difficult

“But you can’t get too emotional otherwise you won’t be terribly effec-tive at what you do,” he said.

PATIENT PATIENTS: While others are cared for, some local females await their turn for treatment in the women’s wing of the Australian Health Facility. Photo: CPL Zenith King

DEWORM: Medical Assistant LACW Alex Redlich from 3EHS administers worming syrup to a young girl in the women’s wing of the Australian Health Facility at Kot Addu while the child’s sister looks on. Photo: CPL Zenith King

IS ALL WELL?: Radiographer, FLGOFF Alastair Lyon monitors an X-ray. Photo: POCIS Damian Pawlenko

SPECIAL CARE: Right, Medical Assistant CPL Fiona Warwick, 2EHS, treats a Pakistani infant Photo: CPL Zenith King

Gang of four gets stores throughCPL Zenith King

A TEAM of four logistics personnel are deployed in Pakistan to provide movement support to Opera-tion Pakistan Assist II.

The team, which comprises three movers and a logistics officer, is coordinating the movement of personnel and cargo between Multan and Kot Addu as well as intra theatre from JTF633 and Australia.

Logistics officer SQNLDR Dean Bruce, from 381ECSS, deployed as part of the advance party.

“Our responsibility was to coordinate the move-ment of stores and personnel coming into Multan airbase and the Kot Addu area,” SQNLDR Bruce said.

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

“It worked well because the UAE and Japanese came here with no capability to unload, so our team were heavily involved in unloading their aircraft.”

MOVING STORY: SQNLDR Dean Bruce runs the logistics. Photo: POCIS Damian Pawlenko

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Indigenous member LACW Deborah Booker has gone from strength to strength since being immersed in her culture from a young age and now the Air Force is the benefi ciary. LAC Aaron Curran reports.

National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) needs look no further than LACW

Deborah Booker to meet the crite-ria of its theme this year, “Unsung Heroes – Closing the Gap by Leading Their Way”.

LACW Booker – or Ngalia to her family – works for the Directorate of Indigenous Affairs (IA) as an Indigenous Recruitment Officer.

Originally from Pinjarra in Western Australia, LACW Booker moved to Alice Springs as a two-year-old.

She grew up within a close com-munity of aunts and uncles who taught her about her culture.

Krystalla Pearce, from IA, praised LACW Booker.

“Before joining the Air Force three years ago, Deb worked in jobs as var-ied as weather girl and prison officer,” Miss Pearce said.

“The majority of Deb’s current work centres on the Indigenous Pre-Recruitment Course (IPRC), an eight-week program that is designed to prepare indigenous young Australians for the ADF recruiting process.”

The IPRC program is delivered at regional locations around Australia and increases participants’ literacy, numeracy and fitness levels in addi-tion to providing them with the self- confidence, leadership and communi-cation skills required for a successful career in Defence.

LACW Booker helped to shape the program and has completed the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Women’s Indigenous Leadership Course.

“The course was the most inspir-

ing thing I’ve ever done,” LACW Booker said.

“After one week you feel like you can move mountains.

ROLE MODEL: LACW Deborah Booker who is helping to shape the future. Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

Miss Pearce said LACW Booker is a strong and driven woman who welcomes a huge amount of people and activity into her life with open arms.

“She has a lot to be proud of, yet remains modest of her success-es,” Miss Pearce said.

“In addition to working up to three jobs at a time at some points in her life, Deb has also managed to represent Alice Springs in soccer, softball, touch football and netball.

“She now continues to represent Defence across a wide range of sports.”

Juggling family and work has not been easy; however LACW Booker is clearly not one to shy away from the many responsibi l i t ies she takes on.

Her three children have always supported her as well.

Unsung heroof our own

“The program is demanding on participants; it encourages them to make decisions, believe in who they are, know where they want to be, and respect themselves and others.”

She said the program works because it is simi-lar to the real thing and participants are made accountable for their actions.

LACW Booker’s mother was a teacher at an

indigenous school and used to take LACW Booker and her siblings along when she took students on bush trips and excursions.

LACW Booker was thus immersed in her culture from an early age.

She said many indigenous

Australians were not as fortunate as she was to have been brought up within their community.

“They don’t know their culture or don’t want to acknowledge it in case they’re seen as a bludger,” she said.

“Apology to Australia’s Indigenous

Peoples [Sorry] has happened and rec-onciliation has been taken up by the government.

“Now it is up to us as a commu-nity to take responsibility and make a change.”

Feature RCEAIR FF6 October 14, 2010

7 NewsOctober 14, 2010RCEAIR FF

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FLTLT Skye Smith

AIR Force has reached a significant mile-stone as the F/A-18 attains 25 years of service to Australia.

In the late 1970s, the government was examining options to replace the Mirage IIIO/D jet fighters that the Air Force had flown since 1964. Prime for considera-tion were the F-15, F-16 and F/A-18.

It settled on the Hornet and in October 1981 signed a contract for 57 single-seat fighters to be flown by 3, 75 and 77SQNs and 18 twin-seat trainers to be operated by 2 Operational Conversion Unit (2OCU).

The Aerospace Research and Development Unit would also be assigned some.

Construction of the Australian aircraft started in 1984 and the first pilots went to the US to start training.

The first training aircraft arrived in Australia in August the following year and were allocated to 2OCU.

3SQN received the first single-seat jets a year later.

All 75 aircraft were in service by May 1990.

The RAAF’s inaugural Fighter

Combat Instructor course was conducted from February to June 1989 at RAAF Base Williamtown and among the gradu-ates was the then FLTLT Mel Hupfeld.

“This was an exciting and reward-ing time as the course confirmed the Air Force’s successful transition to a fourth generation fighter aircraft,” Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld said.

“I look back and am extremely proud of how we have developed a world class standard with our Hornet over the last 25 years.”

The Hornet has proved a versatile aircraft, which has deployed as far afield as Butterworth and Hawaii on operations and exercises.

In November 2001, four 77SQN Hornets deployed to Diego Garcia to support coalition operations in Afghanistan following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the US.

In February 2003, the type made his-tory as the first RAAF fighter to engage in combat since the Korean War when, under the command of then WGCDR Hupfeld, 14 75SQN Hornets deployed to Iraq. The squadron flew more than 160 combat missions before returning to Australia in May 2003.

“Although a relatively modest con-tribution to the overall commitment to the war in Iraq, this was a significant achievement for Australia that confirmed our relevance as an air combat force, validated our training and demonstrated our ability to interoperate with our coali-tion allies,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

By 1998, the aircraft was ageing and in August that year Air Force initiated the Hornet Upgrade program to address the shortcomings in its combat effec-tiveness to keep it operational pending arrival of the Joint Strike Fighter.

AIRCDRE Hupfeld has witnessed the F/A-18 in service since its historic arriv-al, as one of the first qualified Fighter Combat Instructors to serve in Iraq and now as the Commander of Air Combat Group.

“The F/A-18 Hornet has served Australia well over the last 25 years, but it is the skill and professionalism of the people who maintain these mar-vellous aircraft that keep them flying,” AIRCDRE Hupfeld said.

“I am immensely proud of those peo-ple and am extremely confident in our ability to continue the relevance of the Hornet through until its eventual retire-ment.”

Happy 25th, HornetHappy 25th, Hornet

A MAN AND HIS BABY: Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Mel Hupfeld with a 3SQN Hornet. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

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8 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FNews

FLTLT Skye Smith

OVER the past decade, with little fanfare, Air Force’s Hawk 127 lead-in fighter training aircraft has gotten on with the job of turning out the pi-lots for the front-line fighter aircraft, clocking up 60,000 flying hours in the process.

The Hawk Lead-in Fighter project was established to provide state-of-the-art fast jet training capability. It would replace the Macchi jet trainer fleet, which was retired in 2000 after 35 years’ service.

The aircraft is primarily used to teach pilots the vital skills, tactics and reflexes that can be transferred for operational conversion to the F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet. Its cockpit was modified from the standard model to more closely resemble the Hornet cockpit layout.

Under the contract, 33 aircraft were acquired with a 25-year deeper maintenance support service delivered by BAE Systems.

76SQN operates 18 at RAAF Base Williamtown; the remaining 15 by 79SQN at RAAF Base Pearce.

The first RAAF Hawk A27-10, was assembled in the UK in 1997. The fuselage and wings arrived in Williamtown in 1999 for finishing by BAE Systems. The aircraft then flew its first production test flight in May 2000.

Hawk turns 10Hawk turns 10

76SQN accepted the aircraft and 10 others in October 2000, marking the formal commencement of in-ser-vice operations of the Hawk.

Today, the Hawk squadrons’ main role is to conduct Introductory Fighter Training, as well as ADF support mis-sions, including fleet support to the Navy, close air support to the Army and

Joint Terminal Attack Controller train-ing.

There are four Introductory Fighter Courses (IFC) conducted each year, where students learn the basics of a fighter jet on the Hawk before mov-ing on to conversion courses for the Classic or Super Hornet.

78WG also conducts advanced jet

training above and beyond what is taught during IFC, allowing pilots to enhance their flying, operational skills and leadership abilities.

The Hawk has been successful over the last decade in training young fast jet pilots to operate the next gen-eration of fighter aircraft and will con-tinue to as Air Force moves towards

the future of air combat capability with the Super Hornet and Joint Strike Fighter.

Project 5438 will provide further enhancements to the lead-in fighter training system as 78WG transitions from training F/A-18 Hornet and F-111 pilots to Super Hornet and Joint Strike Fighter aircrew training.

JETSTAR: On May 25, 2006, 76SQN’s FLTLT Dave Foreman flies Hawk A27-33 above the beaches near Newcastle on a training flght.

Photo: LACW Sonja Inderwisch

Hercules delivers a PM

FIRST VISIT: Prime Minister Julia Gillard in the cockpit of an Air Force C-130 en route to Afghanistan early this month for her first visit there as PM. Ms Gillard met Australian troops as well as military and political officials in Tarin Kot and Kabul. Photo: CPL Raymond Vance

9 NewsOctober 14, 2010RCEAIR FF

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RAAF Base Wagga was honoured by the first Vice-Regal visit since 1991 when Governor-General, Quentin Bryce, and Michael Bryce made a quick visit to the base on September 21.

The Governor-General and Mr Bryce were visiting Wagga as part of their duties in opening the Henty Field Days nearby and took the opportunity to include the base visit as part of their program before depart-ing for Henty.

The Vice-Regal party arrived at the base shortly after 11.30am and were greeted by the senior ADF officer, GPCAPT Bob Rodgers, base Warrant Officer Disciplinary WOFF Ken Robertson and a Stairway Guard by personnel from the three services.

They then joined recruits from 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) and trainees from the RAAF School of Technical Training (RAAFSTT) for lunch in the Airmen’s Mess before being given a vehicle tour of the base and a tour of the RAAFSTT Hangar 84.

Ms and Mr Bryce spoke to a num-ber of trainees during their walk-through of the hangar.

WOFF Robertson said that the base had been advised of the visit about five weeks earlier.

Preparations had included organ-ising the guard, RAAFSTT, 1RTU, and security as well as liaising with the Governor-General’s office and Wagga Wagga City Council.

“I was pleased with the Stairway Guard and the excellent liaison with the Governor-General’s Office and Wagga City Council to ensure the visit went smoothly,” WOFF Robertson said.

“It’s not often that RAAF Wagga has a visit from a Vice-Regal person-age, so having the chance to welcome Their Excellencies and show them what a great job RAAF Base Wagga is doing for Defence was certainly an historic and pleasant experience.”

He said that the trainees had also

enjoyed the visit and the opportunity to meet their Commander-in-Chief.

The Governor-General and Mr Bryce enjoyed their visit, according to FLTLT Nick Fairweather, the RAAF Aide-de-Camp.

“[They] enjoyed lunch with the recruits and meeting the RAAFSTT t r a i n e e s a f t e r wa r d s ,” F LT LT Fairweather said.

The last visit by a Governor -General occurred in October 1991 when the then Governor-General Bill Hayden visited.

WELCOME, MA’AM: Above, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce is welcomed by the Stairway Guard. Left, Ms Bryce chats with some of the RAAFSTT trainees during her walk-through of Hangar 84.

Photos: CPL Steve Duncan

Dropping Dropping in on in on WaggaWagga

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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

Your housing entitlements, including Rent Allowance or Living In Accommodation

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

Arranging all your DHA housing maintenance requirements

Arranging all your uplift and delivery requirements

Determining your Conditions of Service

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

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

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

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

Booking travel and temporary accommodation for your relocation

Your relocation allowances and entitlements

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

Defence Housing Australia – your housing solution.

11 PersonnelOctober 14, 2010RCEAIR FF

Travel Insurance

Wherever you’re heading on holiday, don’t forget your travel insurance. Take a look at Defence Health Travel

Insurance before buying from your travel agent. We offer a comprehensive cover at a really competitive price.

We think you’ll get a better deal from Defence Health.

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for an online quote.

This information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement in deciding whether to acquire this product. You may wish to seek independent advice. This product is underwritten by American Home Assurance Company (ABN 67 007 483 267, AFSL 230903) trading in Australia as Chartis. Defence Health receives remuneration of 20% of all premiums you pay to Chartis. The Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement may be obtained by calling 1800 102 994 or downloaded from www.defencehealth.com.au

Your tour

RESERVISTS can look forward to sweeping changes in the way their pay is administered from July 1 next year, which will remove many of the current frustra-tions and delays.

With the exception of a limited number of reserve personnel, Air Force reserve pay is currently pro-cessed through the pay sections of the respective reserve city squadrons.

Now, work is under way to transfer the pay data entry function for reservists from the squadrons to the Reserve Pay Administration Centre (RPAC), which is located at Bandiana, during the first half of 2011.

RPAC processes about 8 per cent of Air Force reserve pay, all of Navy Reserve and 20 per cent of Army Reserve pays.

Changes afoot for reserves

From July 1, all reserve pay will be transacted through Global Payroll, which is a module of PMKeyS. This important step will mean that mem-bers will be able to receive their pay on a fortnightly basis, removing the need

for them to either wait until the end of the month or else be subject to the ‘five consecutive days trigger’, and there will be improved reporting at unit level for governance purposes.

Planning is also under way for reserve pay attend-ance diaries and associated allowances to be pro-cessed through PMKeyS Self Service (PSS) from April 12.

Members who have access to PSS will be able to claim days worked through PSS without the need to complete the current Reserve Attendance Diary (RAD). Instead, the diary will automatically be sent to the member’s supervisor for authorisation before being uploaded into the pay system.

Members will also be able to update their bank details, personal details, emergency contacts and view their payslips through PSS.

Those members without PSS access will still be able to claim their pay by completing their RAD as they currently do.

For the present, the governance functions will remain with the squadrons.

This important new initiative is one of the reform streams emanating from the Strategic Reform Program (SRP).

WGCDR Tony Smith from the office of the Director General Reserves–Air Force said the need to deliver a reliable and timely pay service to reservists was an integral part of the SRP.

“The new Global Payroll system is currently being developed, and as a result not all the questions that members and units may have can be answered,” he said.

“Updates will be provided on a regular basis as more information becomes available.”

Any questions can be directed to WGCDR Tony Smith on 0407 663 797 or WOFF Garry O’Connor on 02 6265 2490. Reserve members can also direct general pay inquiries to 1800 DEFENCE.

AN INCREASED presence by Toll officers to provide greater supervision at removal uplift and delivery will be one of the chang-es ADF members will notice with the new contract arrangements with Toll Transitions that started on July 1.

The Director of Relocations and Housing, Alan McClelland, said the new contract also included the introduction of a smaller carton kit for removals by recruits and trainees.

Mr McClelland said that the new micro-carton kit is to be used primarily for single recruits and students to pack their clothing and other items of a personal nature.

The new micro-carton kit will include a port-a-robe, four tea chests, two book

cartons, 25 sheets of packing paper, a roll of tape and a black marker pen.

“This will make the quantity of pack-ing materials more realistic with the actu-al needs of the members and reduce the amount of waste that has been evident under past practices,” Mr McClelland said.

Members are reminded that the car-ton kits issued are not the total pre-pack solution for their removal. Mr McClelland stressed that there are no changes to the existing standard carton kits and mini-car-ton kits currently used by ADF members undertaking a Defence removal.

Members are encouraged to contact Toll Transitions on 1800 819 167 for more information on their entitlement to carton kits.

Removal changes comingA NEW Defence health-care ser-vice has begun with Joint Health Command’s Home Health Care Program (HHCP) starting in the Canberra region.

Operating out of the Duntroon medical centre, the HHCP recog-nises that a patient’s recovery is enhanced by clinical care at home, as long as nursing supervision and support are in place.

Commander Joint Health MAJGEN Paul Alexander said the pilot program is expected to deliver a range of benefits to ADF members while they are recu-perating from illness, injury and surgery. The program will end on

December 31 and be evaluated before expansion is considered.

“The HHCP is designed to pro-vide ADF patients with high qual-ity clinical care at home with sup-port for themselves and their fami-lies,” MAJGEN Alexander said.

Qualifying members will be under the care of a medical officer and able to attend a pre-admission clinic.

Central to the success of the HHCP is the Home Health Care Nurse (HHCN) who will attend to any pre-operative require-ments such as measuring for anti-embolism stockings and crutches or other equipment, as well as

coordinating blood tests, medical imaging, sick leave and referral to allied health professionals.

The day following discharge home from hospital the HHCN will telephone you to arrange the first home visit.

They will then assess the need for home visits based on the type and extent of your surgery or ill-ness.

The HHCP operates five days per week from 8am-4pm. For further information contact the Director Nursing services on (02) 6265 9389 or MAJ Lynda White on (02) 6265 9414.

Home health-care program takes off

October 14, 2010 13132010 Williamtown Air Show2010 Williamtown Air Show RCEAIR FF1212

THE WAY WE WERETHE WAY WE WERE

RUNNING an air show in 2010 is a difficult and com-plex exercise requiring dedi-cation, rigorous attention

to detail and managerial skills of the highest order from a wide range of specialists.

Back at my first air show at RAAF Laverton in 1975, life was different. As expected from our aviators, it was highly successful and Melbournians were enthralled with the tight and entertaining program. However, from a public rela-tions perspective it was simply a matter of putting out a press release earlier in the week, inviting the media to the Friday practice and on the weekend 100,000 patrons turned up at the gate.

In those days the Air Force numbered around 23,000 – Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor were not on the radar, and the air show team were PAF. We did not charge entry, we were not as concerned about traffic gridlock, there was no public affairs plan, OH&S was unknown, the risk assessment was a couple of pages long and the police cheerfully provided their services at no cost.

Today the Air Force numbers around 14,700 and the air show team is run by reservists led by Head of Special Events (HSE), AIRCDRE Phil Byrne. Where possible, an entry fee is charged to limit the number of patrons and to offset direct costs of more than $500,000.

A carefully managed traffic plan is initiated by professionals, the public affairs plan is an all inclusive and com-prehensive document, OH&S is includ-ed in all planning, the risk assessment is more than 100 pages long and signed off by the Air Commander and we pay for the additional police required.

The current series of air shows was initiated in 2001 by the former Commander of the Maritime Patrol Group, AIRCDRE Des Long who firm-ly believed the Air Force should run its own shows after the cancellation of our 80th anniversary air show following 9/11 – an event that was being run by a commercial organisation.

AIRCDRE Byrne has considerable operational and managerial experience and therefore particularly well placed to take over the reigns two years ago

from AIRCDRE Long. Joining the Air Force in 1970 he topped his naviga-tor’s course, flew Canberras, P3s and Nimrods during an exchange in the Britain, posted as CO of 292SQN and later served as the Assistant Air Attaché in Washington, before a post-ing as DGPERS and finally capping off his operational career as Commander Maritime Patrol Group.

“In the past we did the absolute minimum – it was a case of throwing open the gates to our bases and station-ing people every 100 metres or so to ensure they did not enter restricted areas,” he said in an interview before the Williamtown air show.

“Fortunately I was able to call on the lessons learnt from AIRCDRE Long. From scratch, Des developed the first five year program and ran the first show in the current series at Edinburgh in 2002.

“The introduction of the risk man-agement policy was introduced to all the flying squadrons by AIRMSHL Les Fisher. Air shows are short term, very intensive exercises where pilots per-form to their operational limit. It is up to us to apply appropriate risk manage-

ment principles to ensure an entertain-ing, but safe outcome.”

Planning for the Williamtown air show was particularly challenging as it had been more than 25 years since an air show was held at the fighter base. A core team of eight reservists started the planning process nine months before and set the template for the air show – a number which built up to 15 members two months before the event.

Organising a timely and orderly entry for more than 10,000 cars on single lane roads presented a real headache. And as planning continued it became evident to AIRCDRE Byrne it was necessary to task No 1 Airfield Operational Support Squadron to build more than a kilometre of road through local bushland. The planners were faced with even more frustration when it became necessary to park cars on the civil side of the runway. This neces-sitated closing the runway and allowing patrons to cross in between scheduled flights.

Ablutions to handle a crowd of 30,000 were set up, a traffic manage-ment company was employed to ensure

a smooth traffic flow, police, ambu-lance, St John’s Ambulance, NSW Fire Service and the Country Fire Service were employed and a ticketing com-pany was contracted to pre-sell tickets. And base personnel responded magnifi-cently to the challenge with air show liaison officer WGCDR Dave Shepherd instrumental in coordinating the neces-sary support.

After the show, CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin said he was delighted.

“Just walking around the crowd and looking at everyone’s smiles, and the positive feedback I received from the air show patrons and our own people was fantastic,” he said.

“The show came together seam-lessly.

“A major air show every year is very important. It gives us a chance to not only thank the community for their support but to ensure they continue with the right view of the Air Force and how we contribute to their community. It also assists us to inspire youngsters with a passion for the Air Force so they want to join when they leave school or a tertiary institution.”

And howwe gothere

Organising an air show now is a far cry from how these things used to be thrown together, writes WGCDR Ken Llewelyn

EYE-CATCHING: Ever a drawcard, trailing smoke, four of the Roulettes come over the top in tight formation during another spectacular performance. Photo: LAC Craig Barrett

MEN AT WORK: AIRCDREs Des Long and Phil Byrne discuss the Air Show. Photo: CPL David Gibbs.

By LAC Aaron Curran

FORMER Air Force pilot Matt Hall returned to RAAF Base Williamtown in spectacular fashion during the 2010 Williamtown Air Show on September 18 and 19.

Matt is now one of the Red Bull race pilots, competing in major cities throughoiut the world.

For the first time he flew a Giles 200 aero-batic aircraft above his old base in front of thousands of people.

Later he cranked up a P-51 Mustang and led a mixed formation of old and new fighters - a Boomerang, Spitfire, Sabre, Hawk and Hornet in a formation over the crowd.

“It was great to fly over my old base,” he said.

He said the crowd was really noticeable when he was getting ready to go or come back from the flight.

“When I was taxiing out to the runway there were lots of people waving and clap-ping,” Matt said.

“It was good to see them having a great time during my display.”

At times Matt goes back to Williamtown to catch up with people and do some physical training and even still uses Al the barber to cut his hair.

The air show was also a perfect opportunity for a reunion of past and present fighter pilots at Fighter World just outside of the base.

“We had a few beers and the stories grew even larger about how good we were and

what we achieved,” he said with a laugh. “It was a great night just sitting around catching up with some old friends.

“There are always waries and lies when you put a bunch of fighter pilots together.”

Matt also had the opportunity to see the new F/A-18F Super Hornet and he was suit-ably impressed.

“I had a look over the new Super Hornet and they are a great aircraft,” he said.

“They are not just a slight improvement on the Classic Hornet – they are a genera-tional leap forward.”

In 2009 Matt left the Air Force as a WGCDR at Williamtown, having served in 3, 76 and 77SQNs and 2 Operational Conversion Unit.

Favourite son is back in (William)town

PROUD HERITAGE: Three generations of fighters take to the skies over Williamtown in a salute to the crowd. Clockwise in formation are two Mustangs and a Hawk, Hornet, Sabre and Spitfire.

Photo: LACW Amy Trebilco

COMMON INTERESTS: Left, Red Bull and former WGCDR pilot Matt Hall compares notes with 77SQN’s CPL Peter Drewe while they watch the Roulettes’ flying display. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

BIRDS OF A FEATHER: Left, the F/A-18s of 3SQN’s ‘Purple Cobra’ display team fly fast and low in a four-ship close formation over a 92WG AP-3C Orion. Photo: LACW Amy Trebilco

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at the 2010 Williamtown Air Show, September 18 and 19

JUST LIKE DAD: Two year-old Kyle Burr wore a flying suit, just like dad – XO 77SQN SQNLDR Grant Burr – for the Williamtown Air Show.

HAPPY FACE: Left, LACW Keely McDonald from 381ECSS stands by Matt Hall’s aircraft on the flightline. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

SOUVENIRS: Left, From left, 2SQN’s CPL Dianne Argent, SGT Cath McRae and FLGOFF Sam Bradley show off some of the merchandise for sale at the Wedgetail stand.

Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

RED STAR RISING: 76SQN’s SQNLDR Phillip Frawley thrilled the crowds with his displays in the Czech L-39 Albatros lead-in jet fighter. He dressed as a Soviet fighter pilot for the occasion. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

SHOW AND TELL: 76SQN’s FLGOFF Sam Crawley shows some young visitors through the cockpit of his Hawk lead-in fighter. Photo: LACW Amy Trebilco

SHOW AND TELL 76SQN’ FLGOFF S

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3 NewsApril 29, 2010RCEAIR FF

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18 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FPersonnel

AIR FORCE BANDOctober 14: The Ceremonial band will take part in the Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome street march in Tocumwal, NSW, from 11.30am.October 14: The Concert Band will give a free concert in Tocumwal NSW as part of the Historic Aerodrome reunion from 2pm.October 17: The Low Brass Ensemble will give a concert and workshop at Camberwell High school from 2pm.October 22: The Ceremonial Band will provide musical support to the RAAF Base Richmond Freedom of Entry to the City to be held at Pitt Town, NSW, from 10.30amOctober 22: The Air Force Jazz Ensemble will provide musical sup-port to the RAAF Base Richmond Sergeants’ Mess spring ball.

Departure LoungeWho’s leaving after 20+ years’ service�

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Fraud proved a bad idea Deanna Nott

A CONVICTION last month has served as a timely warning for every-one about fraud against the Common-wealth.

The mere mention of the word fraud is usually enough to ensure that ADF members stay on the straight and narrow at all times.

Unfortunately, however, the idea of being found guilty of committing fraud is not enough to deter everyone from doing the wrong thing.

An Army reservist was convicted last month of two fraud offences in a Northern Territory Court.

The reservist, who claimed to be self-employed but was actually work-ing full-time as a Northern Territory police officer, pleaded guilty to obtaining a financial benefit by decep-tion and making a false claim for Employer Support Payments (ESP).

He was sentenced to two months’ imprisonment (suspended) and must be of good behaviour for 18 months. He was required to pay back all of the

money and also now has a criminal conviction on his record.

The Director of the Employer Support Payment Scheme, Doug Stedman, said it was disappointing that the reservist abused the scheme.

“It is very concerning to our organisation and provides us with a good reason to remind Reservists that they must ensure their claims are gen-uine,” Mr Stedman said.

“The ESP Scheme aims to enhance employer support for Reserve ser-vice and increase the availability of

Reservists to undertake Defence ser-vice by providing financial support to employers. Payments may also be made to self-employed reservists.”

The scheme was set up under a Defence Determination detailing the eligibility criteria for all ESP claims.

“Decision makers are responsible for the approval of ESP claims. They ensure only genuine claimants are rewarded by the Scheme,” he said.

“Everyone must be aware that when there is any suggestion or evi-dence that a claimant is trying to

obtain a financial advantage from the Commonwealth by fraud or deception, the matter is immedi-ately forwarded to the appropriate Defence agency for investigation.

“If investigation reveals that a claimant has committed fraud or deception, the facts will be submitted to the appropriate authorities (normal-ly Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions) for prosecution.

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

Security clearances simplifi edMAJOR changes to vetting processes mean all future ADF recruits will be cleared to Secret during their initial training. The changes follow the October 1 launch of the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA). “Previously, ADF recruits were cleared to Restricted and then later upgraded,” head of the AGSVA Peter Sinfi eld said. The AGSVA will also speed up vetting processes, including requiring people to prove their identity only once, and reducing much of the paperwork. “Changes to personal details can be made online,” he said. “Personnel can complete their clearance forms and update their personal details and circumstances 24/7 from home or work.”

General vetting enquiries can be directed to the AGSVA Client Service Centre, 1800 640 450, securityclearances@defence.gov.au or visit the AGSVA website: www.defence.gov.au/agsva

19 HistoryOctober 14, 2010RCEAIR FF

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MEMORIES flooded back for scores of WWII RAAF veterans who gathered to commemorate the 70th an-

niversary of the formation of Tasma-nia’s only WWII RAAF flying unit.

They gathered at Evandale in northern Tasmania on August 21 to remember No 7 Elementary Flying Training School (7EFTS) and the 65th anniversary of its disbandment.

Serving members, 170 invited guests and Air Force cadets gathered at the town’s memorial park to wit-ness OC Air Training Wing, RAAF Base East Sale, GPCAPT Glen Coy unveil a special memorial.

They included 20 veterans from 7EFTS and members from more than 60 families of those veterans, others who died during the war and veterans who have subsequently died.

The senior Air Force officer and CO 29 (City of Hobart) Squadron, WGCDR Charles Hill, represented Air Force.

Other support during the cer-emony came from a flypast by three

Vets of 7EFTS Vets of 7EFTS rememberedremembered

POIGNANT: Above, three CFS PC-9s fly over the dedication service as GPCAPT Coy addresses the attendees; left, some of the veterans who attended. Photos: 29SQN

IN REMEMBRANCE: GPCAPT Glen Coy unveils the memorial.

PC-9s from the Central Flying School (CFS), a 29SQN catafalque party, the Air Force band and cadets from 509SQN (AAFC) from Launceston.

29SQN’s chaplain WGCDR Ken Box conducted the memorial dedica-tion service.

7EFTS was established at Western Junction (the site of the pre-sent Launceston Airport) on August 29, 1940 and commenced training in September. By the time it disbanded

on August 21, 1945, more than 1800 pilot trainees had graduated under the Empire Air Training Scheme.

Secretary Evandale History Society Neil Louis said that in conjunction with the Launceston Branch of the RAAF Association, the society decided to build a memorial dedicated to all those who trained and served at 7EFTS as well as com-memorating the 10 who died there.

It would also honour the approxi-mately 600 pilots trained there who later died, either in training accidents elsewhere or on active service.

The memorial was built in Evandale because it is close to Western Junction and many 7EFTS personnel were billeted there.

The Evandale History Society has established a photographic and historical collection on 7EFTS and is seeking any additional photos or information. Contact the society, 18 High Street, Evandale, Tasmania. 7212; or email evandalehistory@tassie.net.au

PAPdaCt

Toll Transistions now manage all your relocation requirements including:

Processing relocation allowances and entitlements.

Arranging travel and temporary accommodation.

Arranging removal and storage services.

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

Handy hints for your upcoming relocation

Do’s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t

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

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

Forget to call your Case Managers if you need advice.

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

Remember

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

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

Northern Territory, DarwinLot 1, 450 Winnellie RoadWinnellie NT 0820

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

Queensland, BrisbaneLevel 6, 369 Ann St Brisbane QLD 4000

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WHILE some injuries can’t be prevented, the risk of develop-ing common overuse

injuries can be reduced with proper physical training.

Here are three injuries common to Air Force personnel and how to avoid them.

Shin splintsShin splints normally occur when

someone who has not run much for a while begins to pound the pavement. It is actually a blanket term for a number of conditions and you should always get your condition properly diagnosed. However, from a fitness perspective the recommendations are all pretty much the same.

To avoid shin splints:➤ Build up slowly. If you haven’t

run for a while, don’t start run-ning 10km every day. Run 3km to 5km two or three times a week and steadily increase your volume.

➤ Get new shoes. Even if your runners look fi ne, if they are more than 12 months old or you wear them all the time, the cushioning will have compressed and they won’t be absorbing the shock of

Long hours and hard physical work can take their toll and lead to injury. Don Stevenson explains.

Overdoing it and what to do about it

landing on hard surfaces as well as they used to.

➤ If you have fl at feet or orthotics, make sure your shoes are suitable for your foot type.

➤ Run mostly on soft surfaces. The human body wasn’t designed to run long distances on concrete. Limit your total distance.

You don’t have to run to develop good fi tness and, if you have feet issues, old injuries or are heavier

than average, you should limit your weekly running and develop your fi tness through metabolic conditioning workouts or alternatives such as rowing.

Lower back painA strong and fatigue-resistant back

is your best defence against acute lower back injuries and chronic pain. To strengthen your back, incorporate deadlifting into your fitness program. The deadlift is the number-one exer-

cise for developing posterior chain (basically, all of your backside) and core strength, and its benefits extend well beyond the lower back to the legs, arms and grip. Add three sets of five repetitions (reps) of deadlifts to your weights workouts and your lower back will thank you.

For developing endurance, ket-tlebell swings are my first choice. Like the deadlift, they give you a great return on your time as they develop lower-back endurance, leg power and

cardio fitness – all in one hit. Throw them into your circuits or perform multiple sets of 20 to 50 reps with short breaks between sets.

Add some odd-object lifting for all-round core strength and some ab work, and chances are you’ll avoid chronic lower-back pain.

Shoulder injuriesShoulder injuries are often a result

of an overemphasis on chest training, a lack of back work to balance the chest work, or poor shoulder flexibility. To develop strong, stable and healthy shoulders, try the following:➤ Turkish getup. This is an ideal pre-

habilitation exercise that strength-ens all the small muscles that sta-bilise the shoulder during pushing and pulling exercises.

➤ Balance pushing with pulling. If you are working on your bench press or pushup numbers, that’s fine – just don’t forget to add an equal or greater amount of pulling work such as chin-ups and rows so your chest doesn’t overpower your back and you end up with a tight shoulder girdle.

➤ Stretch your shoulders and chest after each upper-body workout.

For more information on any of these exercises or advice on program design and training, contact fitness@octogen.com.au

DON’T STRESS: Warming up before any sport can reduce the risk of common injuries.

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22 October 14, 2010RCEAIR FSp rt

John Martin

WHEN FLTLT Damon Stefani lined up for the third and final leg of the ADF road cycling titles in South Australia, he knew exactly what he had to do.

FLTLT Stefani, who had finished seventh in the 40km individual time trial and won the blue ribbon 87.5km road race, trailed fellow RAAFie CPL Chris Holbert by a single point with just the 40-minute criterium left.

For the previous two months, FLTLT Stefani, who is based at RAAF Base Amberley, had hit the road in the 5am darkness for a 50km train-ing ride through the Brisbane foothills. So he knew he had done the work.

But SGT Mick Rand had other ideas.Despite the difficult windy conditions, SGT

Rand broke away immediately on his own.He was reeled in after 25 minutes but was

able to kick again to win, holding off the fast-finishing peloton led by none other than FLTLT Stefani.

That was good enough for him to leapfrog CPL Holbert to win the overall title and brag-ging rights as the Defence champion.

“It was a very satisfying result,” FLTLT Stefani said.

More than 50 cyclists from all three services contested the ADF titles in A grade, B grade and C grade men and a women’s category from September 13 to 15.

The women’s winner was CPL Fiona Parslow, from RAAF Base Wagga.

CPL Holbert finished third among the top men.

This was only FLTLT Stefani’s second attempt at the titles.

He competed in 2006, winning the road race that year. But he had not competed since because of work commitments.

The road race was his showpiece. Coincidentally, the race through the Barossa Valley was held on his 29th birthday.

The race came down to a four-man sprint battle between last year’s overall champion PO Dion Blair and Air Force members FLTLT Stefani, CPL Jarrod Hughes and CPL Holbert.

With an uphill sprint finish, always difficult to judge, FLTLT Stefani timed his final effort best with an explosive burst to the line that dis-tanced his rivals and provided him enough time to throw a victory salute to the crowd.

Timed to perfection

GLEEFUL: SGT Mick Rand wins the criterium. Photo: ACW Nicci Freeman

WHEEL POWER: FLGOFF David Elliott gains speed in the criterium. Photo: ACW Nicci Freeman

ON THE WAY: FLTLT Damon Stefani pushes off in the men’s A grade time trial which began his quest for the overall title.

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23 October 14, 2010RCEAIR F Sp rt

From Back Page

SGT Muehlberg was one of many players from all over the country and from New Zealand who descended on Sydney for the ADF titles from September 12 to 18.

He played for South Australia which lost to NSW in the men’s final, 54-33.

His fine performance, however, won him selection in the men’s All Stars team to represent the ADF in the Australian Men’s and Mixed Netball Association National Carnival in Sydney from April 23 to May 1, which is largely a civilian competition.

Plans are in train for the women’s All Stars team to take on a NZDF team as a curtain-raiser to the ANZ Championship games on the Anzac Day weekend.

By Scotty Tobias

AIR Force won the ADF championship at this year’s national lawn bowls cham-pionships in a result that wasn’t decided until the final bowl came to rest.

Held at Swift Sports Club, Brisbane, from September 20 to 24, it was the closest series there has been.

Both Army and APS missed some chances whereas the Air Force play-ers took theirs.

The opening round pitted Air Force against Army and APS against Navy. It appeared to be Air Force’s easiest assignment, however, that was quickly forgotten when Army exploded to a 20-1 lead which they held throughout.

It was a rude awakening for the Air Force players and their task appeared nearly out of reach after hearing their next opponents, APS, had easily disposed of Navy.

Bowlers seize chance

In round two, Air Force clawed their way back against APS to gain the lead with just two ends remaining and followed up with a six and a three to effectively end the match.

Army beat Navy in the other

match and headed into the final round on 13 points followed by RAAF and APS both on 8 ½ points.

The equation for Army was sim-ple: beat APS and the title would be theirs while Air Force and APS would

have to score handsomely to make up the deficit.

The APS v Army contest finished first with APS winning 92-64. The overall standings were unclear as both camps converged on the other match

to see three of the four rinks com-pleted, all in Air Force’s favour.

Word spread a draw on the last rink would clinch the title for Air Force, which trailed by a single shot.

Loud cheers went up from Army and APS when Navy drew shot just inches from the jack, however, Air Force’s CPL Rob Fitzgerald followed up with a brilliant front toucher.

The game and the overall result was in the balance with any slight contact on to the shot bowl moving the jack back to Navy’s two bowls. If it moved more than four feet Air Force hold shot.

Air Force skip CPL Michael Petersen predicted his counterpart would play weight and directed his third, player of the series AC Roger Ward, to position his bowls accordingly.

This made the Navy skip’s task very difficult and his final two attempts nar-rowly missed their target. The game finished 22-22.

One of SGT Muelhberg’s team-mates in the men’s All Stars team will be CPL Craig Taylor who captained the South Australian men’s team and was awarded the men’s competition Most Valuable Player.

The NSW and ACT women’s teams provided the closest contest of the com-

petition with NSW scoring in the final minute of the match to win 35-34.

ACT women’s coach SQNLDR Paul Fournier said his team performed well with limited preparation.

“I am so proud of the ACT wom-en’s team,” he said.

“The girls only started playing

together at the competition, learning from every game and impressing eve-ryone by being competitive against a well-drilled NSW team.”

SQNLDR Fournier played in the mixed competition and was rewarded with a call-up to the All Stars support squad, from which players will be selected for the All Stars bench.

The mixed competition at the national titles was won by Victoria which beat ACT 35-29 in the final.

SGT Muehlberg will not be lost to basketball forever. In fact, at the time of this paper being put together he was heading off to Western Australian for the university basketball titles in Perth.

Nor does he rule out having another crack at netball. “It was fun and they’re a great bunch of people,” he said.

South Australian netballers borrow a champ

Air Force players in ADF women’s All Stars: OFFCDT Amanda Varley, CPL Rachael Hawcroft.Women’s squad (from which the bench players will be selected or players promoted to the starting lineup should players become unavailable): LACW Lisa Merriman, FLGOFF Catherine Ferry.

Mixed All Stars: CPL Bec Kubitzky.Squad: SQNLDR Paul Fournier, ACW Christine Van De Werken

Men’s All Stars: SGT Tim Muehlberg, CPL Craig Taylor.

Squad: SQNLDR Peter Janssen, LAC Nathan Unsworth

OUR ALL STARS

BIG SHOT: Player of the Series AC Roger Ward, left, is congratulated by teammate SGT Robert Hunt after the dramatic victory.

NO YOU DON’T: CPL Bec Kubitzky, left, tries to block a shot ... she was rewarded for her fi ne play by being named for the Mixed All Stars. Photo: ABIS Hayley Clarke

Air Force cricketers think pink againABOUT 30 Air Force cricketers are ex-pected to converge on RAAF Base Rich-mond for trials from October 27 to 29.

At stake will be selection for 15 berths in the Air Force team which will contest the Defence Force’s nation-al cricket carnival in Canberra from November 1 to 3.

The RAAF Cricket Association this

year has a new president, WGCDR Grant Pinder, whose goal is to build on the team’s strengths, including fundraising which has raised nearly $25,000 for the McGrath Foundation over the past three years.

The Air Force is providing pink stumps that will be used in the one-day the games at Chisholm.

For more information, contact coach SGT Sean Croker on (08) 9571 7289 or sean.croker@defence.gov.au

CONTACT

SP RTRTOctober 14, 2010

Netball Netball borrows borrows a stara star

INSIDE

King of the roadFLTLT Damon Stefani wins ADF cycling crown

Air Force rules the bowling greens

Page 23 Page 22

Haven’t we seen that face before?

John Martin

SGT Tim Muehlberg is one of 11 Air Force players who were selected in All Stars teams and support squads after the ADF netball titles in Sydney.

Nothing odd about that – except that until the titles SGT Muehlberg had never actually played the game.

He is best known in sporting circles as a basketballer, and a good one too.

He has been playing the game for 22 years, 10 of them at ADF competitions.

Last year he was judged the joint Most Valuable Player at the ADF champion-ships in Albury.

This year, there will be no ADF titles and when the South Australian netball fraternity learnt this they asked him if he would like to try netball instead.

Why not, he thought, which is how he came to don the goal shooter’s (GS) bib which was another new experience for him.

“While it was a surprise invitation to travel with the team, the competitiveness of the tournament was readily apparent,” SGT Muelhberg said.

“There is considerable transfer of skills between basketball and netball.

“However the rules of the game inherently rewards teams who commit themselves to valuing possession of the netball.”

Continued, Page 23

IF THE BIB FITS: SGT Tim Muehlberg in familiar basketball territory; inset at left, having a shot at the ADF netball titles after receiving a pass from CPL Craig Taylor at the back of the photo.

Photos: AC Brenton Kwaterski (basketball)

and ABIS Hayley Clarke (netball)