electric debut - department of defence · c-47 dakota, as well as the dhc-4 caribou that began its...
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AIRF RCEVol. 59, No. 3, March 9, 2017 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force
Call for cancer vigilance – Page 14Loss of an Air Force pioneer – Page 4
Growler launch takes us into the electronic warfare age
Pages 2-3
A pair of Air Force EA-18G Growlers en route to the 2017 Australian International Airshow at Avalon, Victoria.
Photo: SGT Mick Bott
ELECTRICDEBUT
2 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FNews
DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650
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AIRF RCEVol. 59, No. 3, March 9, 2017 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force
Call for cancer vigilance – Page 14Loss of an Air Force pioneer – Page 4
Growler launch takes us into the electronic warfare age
ELECTRIC DEBUT
Pages 2-3
A pair of Air Force EA-18G Growlers en route to the 2017 Australian International Airshow at Avalon, Victoria.
Photo: SGT Mick Bott ‘This is a beast. It was built to be a war aircraft and that’s exactly what we plan to use it for.CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies
An Air Force EA-18G Growler makes its debut at the Australian International Airshow on February 28. Inset: Defence Minister Marise Payne and CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies (third from left) are briefed by an EA-18G Growler aircrew. Photos: CPL Ben Dempster
Living the Air Force Values: RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORK
Enter the fifth-generation F-35ACPL Mark Doran
IN an exhilarating day for Australian mili tary air power, the F-35A Lightning II made its public debut at the Australian International Airshow on March 3.
After a journey of about 15,000km Australia’s first two F-35As displayed their power and manoeuvrability in the sky above Avalon Airport before landing in front of an enthused crowd.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Defence Minister Senator Marise Payne, and Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne, met the F-35A pilots – WGCDR Andrew Jackson and SQNLDR David Bell and their sup-port crew – before speaking to the media.
Mr Turnbull said it was an exciting day for Air Force, Australian industry, technology and Australian jobs.
“The F-35A is the most advanced fighter in the world,” he said.
“We need to ensure our Defence force have the best capabilities and the greatest lethality.”
The F-35A is a key addition to Australia’s strategic capability and a critical component of the $195 billion defence investment.
The government is purchasing and will maintain 72 aircraft as part of the global Joint Strike Fighter program,
which will give Air Force the capabil-ity to combat future air threats to the nation.
Senator Payne said there wasn’t anything like the landing of two F-35As in Australia to make a defence minister’s day.
“This acquisition has been 15 years in the making and will make a game-changing difference to Air Force capability,” she said.
“The F-35A will provide the Air Force with the ability to execute air combat missions which were previ-ously beyond our scope.”
The F-35A’s cutting-edge stealth technology, sensors and the ability to share information across advanced networks will significantly strengthen Air Force’s combat ability.
Acquiring F-35A aircraft will also reinforce the ability of Air Force to operate seamlessly with the United States and coalition partners to sup-port Australia’s shared strategic inter-ests.
Mr Pyne said the JSF program was maximising Australian industry involvement.
“Already 32 Australian compa-nies had reaped about $800 million in value into their businesses,” he said.
The F-35A’s visit is an important step in Air Force’s transformation into a fifth-generation air force.
3March 9, 2017RCEAIR F News
See footage at: http://video.airforce.gov.au/play/5040#
The beauty of our new war ‘beast’
FLGOFF Courtney Jay
THE much-anticipated EA-18G Growler has arrived in Australia, pushing the RAAF closer to becoming the world’s first fifth-generation air force.
The aircraft made its Australian debut at the Australian International Airshow, where it was wel-comed by Defence Minister Marise Payne and CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies, on February 28.
Making the journey from the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in the US, where Air Force pilots and crew have been training, the Growler impressed the crowds at Avalon.
AIRMSHL Davies said the Growler would pro-vide a dedicated electronic attack option through sophisticated electronic warfare.
“This is a beast. It was built to be a war air-craft and that’s exactly what we plan to use it for,” AIRMSHL Davies said.
“It will operate as part of our networked and integrated force, capable of sharing electronic intel-ligence, surveillance and reconnaissance data with other aircraft, as well as Army and Navy.
“The Growler is powerful and flexible. It can undertake a range of non-kinetic tasks, ranging
from jamming to blocking radars displays and sup-pressing an adversary’s air defence system.”
The Growler brings a unique capability to the ADF, as described by Senator Payne at the welcom-ing ceremony.
“Australia is the only country outside the US fly-ing the EA-18G Growler. Its arrival is a significant leap forwards in Australia’s joint electronic warfare capability and introduces a dedicated electronic attack option,” she said.
Senator Payne announced that Australia will partner the US in developing a $250 million next-generation radar and radio jammer for the Growler.
AIRMSHL Davies said the ultimate success of the project depended on ongoing learning.
“This is a precision instrument, and integration is the key. This aircraft is going to have to learn to operate with, and operate around, the various ADF platforms,” he said.
“I actually expect that this aircraft could spend more time flying with Navy and Army than the RAAF.”
The 12 aircraft will be operated by No. 6 Squadron and will be stationed at RAAF Base Amberley from the middle of this year.
The EA-18G Growler lands to much fanfare as it prepares to significantly boost the joint electronic warfare capability of our fifth-generation air force
Next issue Special lift-out on the AIA, industry at Avalon and CAF symposium
Enter the fifth-generation F-35A One of Air Force’s F-35A Lightning IIs makes its Australian debut at the Australian International Airshow.
Photo: SGT Guy Young
See footage at: http://video.defence.gov.au/play/5043#
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4 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FNews
Eamon Hamilton
AIR FORCE has lost a pioneer of its airlift capability, with the death of AIRCDRE Geoff Lumsden (retd), AM.
Members of Air Mobility Group (AMG) joined family and friends of AIRCDRE Lumsden for a funeral ser-vice at St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Windsor, NSW, on February 16.
AIRCDRE Lumsden passed away on February 8, aged 73.
During a remarkable 35-year career with Air Force, AIRCDRE Lumsden was present for the genesis of flying operations with the DHC-4 Caribou, C-130E Hercules, and Boeing 707.
He was also remembered for his leadership as Commander Air Lift Group from May 4, 1993 until November 28, 1996, during which time lessons were consolidated from the painful loss of a Boeing 707 in October 1991.
Proceedings at the full mili-tary funeral for AIRCDRE Lumsden included a flypast by a C-27J Spartan and C-130J Hercules – both descend-ants of the types AIRCDRE Lumsden flew and commanded during his career.
In a eulogy, AMG Commander AIRCDRE Richard Lennon said it was a privilege to recall AIRCDRE Lumsden’s remarkable career.
“We remember an aviator who ded-icated his life to his country and to the RAAF. He was my commander for a time, and gave his all in the service of his nation,” he said.
Born on November 14, 1943,
Aviator who gave his all
AIRCDRE Lumsden joined Air Force in April 1962, completing his flying training with No. 45 Pilots Course.
He was posted to No. 38 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond to fly the C-47 Dakota, as well as the DHC-4 Caribou that began its Air Force ser-vice in April 1964.
AIRCDRE Lumsden fer r ied the fourth Caribou from Canada to Australia in June 1964 and was deployed with the Air Transport Flight in Vietnam the following February. He
amassed 1200 sorties of challenging flying, in appalling weather, under fire and into airstrips only 400 metres long.
Returning to Australia in October 1965, AIRCDRE Lumsden was then selected to become one of the first Air Force pilots to fly the C-130E Hercules with No. 37 Squadron.
With a longer range than the C-130As, the E-models brought home wounded Australian Diggers from Vietnam in nonstop 14-hour flights to RAAF Base Richmond.
In 1969, AIRCDRE Lumsden trained as a qualified flying instructor, teaching students on the newly deliv-ered Macchi MB326 jet trainers. This was followed by postings to 37SQN to instruct on the C-130E, and to No. 36 Squadron where he was the training flight commander.
In 1974, AIRCDRE Lumsden was sent to Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea as RAAF Director of Air Transport Operations. His team taught pilots from the fledgling PNG Defence
Force to fly Dakotas. It was a daunting task in an unforgiving environment, but one that AIRCDRE Lumsden took seriously and executed diligently.
On his return to Australia, he met his wife-to-be, Suzanne, who he mar-ried in 1976.
In 1978, he took up command of 37SQN. The C-130E was well estab-lished in Air Force service when 37SQN took delivery of Air Force’s first two Boeing 707s in 1979.
Under AIRCDRE Lumsden’s com-mand, the squadron learnt to operate the largest aircraft ever owned by Air Force, and established a capability that would become its first air-to-air refuel-ling aircraft.
AIRCDRE Lumsden took up staff postings at RAAF Bases Richmond and Glenbrook, and in Canberra dur-ing the 1980s and early 1990s. He was promoted to Air Commodore in 1993 and took charge of Air Lift Group.
“Following the Boeing 707 acci-dent, barely 12 months earlier, I recall a concerted effort to ensure that the lessons from that accident were learnt and kept,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.
“The emotions at that time were still raw, and I am pleased to say that airworthiness and safety in the Air Force have been transformed.
“Once again, Geoff Lumsden was at the helm of something new, some-thing important and something that has stayed with us.”
In April 1997 AIRCDRE Lumsden retired from Air Force and lived in Castle Hill with his wife until his death.
AIRCDRE Geoff Lumsden as Commander of Air Lift Group and (above) in 1996.
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5March 9, 2017RCEAIR F News
AN INDEPENDENT report conducted at RAAF Base Williamtown reinforces Air Combat Group’s review of neck and back pain in fighter pilots.
Called Factors Associated with Neck Pain in Fighter Pilots: A Systematic Review, the report was conducted by James B. Wallace at Williamtown’s physio-therapy department. It identifies
studies that have investigated potential risk factors relating to neck pain in high-performance jet pilots.
Mr Wallace said the report was presented to an Aerospace Medical Association conference in the US, and was submitted for publication with the scientific journal Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance.
“The issue of back and neck pain for fast-jet pilots is not just limited to the RAAF. It is also a problem for military organisa-tions around the world,’’ he said.
Mr Wallace’s report said poor methodology, diverse studies and inconsistent findings had made it difficult to draw conclu-sions about factors contributing to neck pain in fighter pilots.
BATTLE TO PINPOINT RISK FACTORS
AIR Combat Group has embarked on a program designed to reduce the incidence of neck and back pain in fighter pilots.
Commander of Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Steve Roberton said as a fighter pilot he was aware of the issues associated with back and neck pain.
He said the ACG conducted an internal review of the prevalence and operational significance of neck and back pain last year.
The review identified that “fast jet aircrew are exposed to some unique stressors, including g flights, light duration, helmet weight and displaced helmet centres of gravity that may increase the risk of musculoskeletal neck and back injury”.
“The review identified that these injuries may affect aircrew ability to function in their primary role, causing either short-term incapacity requir-ing medical intervention or longer-
term enduring effects,’’ AIRCDRE Roberton said.
“Despite current controls – such as limiting the duration and frequency of night goggle use, lightweight helmets, guidance on physiological effects, neck warm ups and fatigue and usage management –the prevalence of neck and back pain remains.”
AIRCDRE Roberton said ACG had responded to the problem as a workplace health and safety issue.
“Safety risk assessments were conducted across the wings to iden-tify which air operations appeared to constitute a long-term risk to fast jet pilots,’’ he said.
“The result of this review, the ACG Musculoskeletal Injury Reduction Project, has been devel-oped to identify physical, administra-tive, and personal protective equip-ment controls aimed at eliminating or minimising the risks associated with fast jet operations and training.’’
Some of these measures will incorporate engineering, operational and administrative changes to training and operations, including: • Investigating aircraft modifications
to support reduction of aircrew neck and back pain.
• Investigating and improving aircrew physical conditioning to reduce the likelihood and impact of injury.
• Investigating and reducing activities that expose aircrew to injury.
• Investigating and improving access to and use of medical support.
“Air Force and ACG have a responsibility to do all that is reason-ably practical to find solutions for the health and safety of fast jet air crew,’’ AIRCDRE Roberton said.
The project, due to be completed this year, will be managed by TFSPO and ACG, who will report to a steer-ing group comprised of the wings, TFSPO, ACESPO, AFHQ, IAM, JHC, DSTG, CASG and HQACG.
Easing the strain
of pain
ACG will introduce measures to fight the prevalence of neck and
back pain in fighter pilots.Photo: SGT Shane Gidall
6 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FNews
CMDR Fenn Kemp
AIR Force has joined ADF nurses in pay-ing tribute to the victims of a wartime tragedy and honouring their legacy 75 years on.
Twenty-two Australian Army nurses went ashore on Bangka Island after their ship was sunk by Japanese forces in the Bangka Strait, off the coast of Sumatra, on February 12, 1942.
The nurses, along with British sailors and soldiers, and civilian men, women and children, had escaped Singapore on 44 ships just before it fell to Imperial Japanese forces. Forty of the vessels were attacked by Japanese aircraft or hit sea mines in the Bangka Strait.
The survivors washed up on or near remote Radji Beach. The civilian women and children walked to the nearby town of Muntok to surrender, while the nurs-es stayed on the beach to care for the wounded.
The Japanese patrol that found them on February 16 did not accept their sur-render. They ordered about 50 British soldiers and sailors to march around a headland before executing them and bay-onetting the wounded.
They then returned to the beach and ordered the nurses and one female civil-ian to walk into the surf.
Seconds before the machine gun opened fire on the row of women, the head nurse, Matron Irene Drummond, was the last to speak: “Chins up, girls. I’m proud of you and I love you all.”
Only one Australian nurse lived through the mass killings. Sister Vivian Bullwinkel was badly wounded but sur-vived in the jungle for two weeks with the assistance of some women in a local village. She eventually surrendered to the Japanese and was sent to a prison camp.
Sister Bullwinkel survived the camp and went on to give evidence at the war crimes trial of those who murdered so many of her friends and colleagues.
Seventy-five years later, ADF mem-bers gathered with the families of some of the nurses killed. They included 12 Army nurses from across Australia and Defence staff from the Australian embas-sy in Jakarta, led by CDRE Bob Plath.
“This was a very special day for all of us,” CDRE Plath said.
“While the 22 Australian nurses are the natural focus of the Bangka Island story, we also reflected today on the many Royal Navy sailors and British Army members who died that day.
“Ultimately, though, this event was for the families and we were honoured to be there on the beach with them.”
The ceremony on Radji Beach was the most emotional of a series of activi-ties to mark the anniversary. The locals turned out in force and the Indonesian nurses paying their own tribute to those who died.
“Vivian Bullwinkel survived for two weeks in the jungle thanks to the goodwill of some local people, so it was heart-warming to see their descendants on the beach today,” CDRE Plath said.
A PLAQUE commemorating the her-oism of an Australian war nurse who survived the Bangka Island massacre in Indonesia 75 years ago has been unveiled at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
Representatives of the South Australian Women’s Memorial Playing Fields Trust were among a number of guests at the unveiling, which also rec-ognised the courage of villagers at Radji Beach who helped war nurse Vivian Bullwinkel and other survivors of sink-ing ships in Bangka Strait after the fall of Singapore.
Trust patron Lan Le, the wife of South Australian Governor Mr Hieu Van Le, paid tribute to the villagers and Sister Bullwinkel, who was the sole survivor of the massacre that followed the sinking.
The commemoration was hosted by SADFO and Commander of the Air Warfare Centre AIRCDRE Joe Iervasi at the base’s officers mess, where Sister Bullwinkel’s life and heroism is hon-oured on a storyboard.
“This year, and as we step through significant milestones from the first and second world wars, we cast our
minds back 75 years as the war came to Australia’s doorstep,” he said.
“We saw a massive change to our commitments and it was those formative stages of the war, at the end of 1941 and early 1942, which really shaped who we are today.
“It is critically important that we recall and reflect on those who have gone before us, particularly those who made the supreme sacrifice and those who, for no other reason than human compassion, provided support and ena-bled life to continue on in the face of what was their own personal threat and danger,” he said.
Born in Kapunda, South Australia, and an avid supporter of the trust, Sister Bullwinkel, ignoring her own wounds, cared for a British soldier by seeking help from Bangka Island villagers.
The plaque unveiled by Mrs Le is a replica of a plaque to be presented to the new Indonesian Ambassador in Canberra later this year.
The trust organised the plaque to rec-ognise the contribution of women to the nation in time of war.
In memory of a brave nurse and local heroes
From left, On Radji Beach author Ian W. Shaw, South Australian Women’s Memorial Playing Fields Trust patron Lan Le, trust Air Force rep FLTLT Kate Yaxley and Air Warfare Centre Commander AIRCDRE Vincent Iervasi at the unveiling of the plaque at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Photo: CPL David Cotton
Beach victims honoured
Wreaths mark the spot where 22 Australian nurses were made to walk into the surf before they were shot by Japanese soldiers on Bangka Island’s Radji Beach. Inset: (from left) CDRE Bob Plath, nephew of one of the victims Michael Noyce, SQNLDR Julie Willes and CHAP Troy White at the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the victims on the beach.
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1EHS has kicked off 2017 in expedi-tionary style by setting up the Role 2 Health Facility for Exercise Regimen White 17-1.
Held at RAAF Base Amberley from January 30 to February 10, Regimen White demonstrated the deployment of a Role 2 Health Facility.
The aim for Regimen White was to undertake assurance of the clinical capability, including the coordination of departments, communications and patient flow in preparation for Talisman Sabre.
CO 1EHS WGCDR Nicole dos Santos said one of the goals of Regimen White was to ensure all the health depart-ments could link together and work as a team.
“One of the challenges when our everyday jobs are geographically dis-persed and autonomous is to operate in an environment where we rely on each other. Communication and flow between departments is the key to success,” WGCDR dos Santos said.
“Regimen White wasn’t just about the health facility itself – it was about the opportunity for our people to operate as one clinical team, and we’ve definitely achieved that.”
Highlights of Regimen White includ-ed the consolidation of teams for the Resuscitative Surgical Capability (RSC), Air Force’s deployable advanced resusci-tation and damage control surgery capa-bility, and an engineering trial for the Central Sterilising Stores Department (CSSD) – a new capability brick for the Air Force Role 2E.
WGCDR dos Santos said Regimen White was also a timely squadron induc-tion.
“Approximately one third of our staff at 1EHS are newly posted in, and this was a great exposure to the expeditionary health facility,” she said.
“Regimen White included reserv-ists from across Australia. We had
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Outpatient department
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Health check in the field
more than 100 health personnel from Health Services Wing, Air Force Health Reserves and Joint Health Command participate in the activity.
“The exercise helped develop rela-tionships with all of our members and familiarised staff with our capability, which strengthened our ability to work together in a challenging field environ-ment.”
WGCDR dos Santos said the estab-lishment of the Role 2 facility was a col-laborative CSG effort and relied heavily on support from 65SQN and 1CCS.
“We had three generators running the health facility – two for the hospital and one for the CSSD. 65SQN also provided support in siting of the facility and the production of high-flow water for the CSSD,” she said.
“1CCS was essential to our commu-nications, providing the PA system, DRN and phones. Without 65SQN and 1CCS, we would not have been able to complete this exercise and demonstrate our abil-ity to provide high quality expeditionary health services.”
Environmental health officers FLTLT David Pennisi and FLTLT Anthony Whitney inspect a heat stress meter during Exercise Regimen White.
Medical staff within the Resuscitative Surgical Capability section, provide treatment to a simulated patient during Exercise Regimen White at RAAF Base Amberley. Photos: CPL Ben Dempster
7March 9, 2017RCEAIR F News
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8 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FNews
LEUT Desmond Paroz and CAPT Dean Muller
THE NATION’s eyes were focused on Darwin on February 19 as the city paused to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin by Japanese forces.
On February 19, 1942, at precisely 9.58am, the first wave of more than 200 Japanese planes began bombing Darwin in what remains the single largest attack on mainland Australia.
In events largely unpublicised in the annals of history, this attack saw more bombs dropped on Darwin than during the attack on Pearl Harbor. This was only the beginning, with Japanese forces bombing the city a further 64 times during the closing stages of WWII.
Each year on February 19, Australians pause to commemorate, recognise and pay tribute to the ser-vice personnel and civilians who died or were wounded during the defence of Darwin, as well as the 3000 civil-ians who were evacuated from the city to communities across Australia.
The commemoration featured the sounding of an air-raid siren at 9.58am. A fly-past comprising three F/A-18 Hornets and an AP-3C Orion followed, and an anti-aircraft gunnery from 8/12 Regt RAA ashore and HMAS Maryborough in Darwin Harbour responded.
Among the notable guests at the event at the Darwin Cenotaph were Governor-General Sir Peter
Cosgrove, Territory Administrator John Hardy, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, federal and state politicians, dignitaries from Japan, ambassadors and descendants.
VCDF VADM Ray Griggs also attended and said it was a significant commemoration for Australians.
“We often forget how dark 1942 was, from the fall of Singapore to the bombing of Darwin and other cities in northern Australia, to the loss of HMAS Perth and HMAS Yarra and other naval bat-tles leading to the Battle of the Coral Sea,” he said.
“It was a dark year, it was an uncertain year and the men and women of our three services did their best to keep Australia strong and free. Darwin was then, and is now, crucial to the defence of northern Australia, and the ADF’s participation in these commemorations – led by 1 BDE and supported by all three services – underscores this importance.”
Commander 1 BDE BRIG Ben James said although the ADF sup-ported the various commemorative services, most importantly, a large number of veterans returned to Darwin for the first time – to the very site where they fought and defended the country.
“Our young soldiers draw an enor-mous amount of strength and deter-mination from those who have served before us, especially those veterans who fought in such places as Darwin in 1942,” BRIG James said.
“February 19, 1942, was a particu-larly dark day in Australia’s history when, for the first time, continental Australia was under attack by a for-eign power.”
The raids were undertaken by the same forces that attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941. Residents and mili-tary forces initially believed the incoming aircraft were of British ori-gin and, therefore, were caught on the back foot.
Maryborough was anchored over the wreck of the USS Peary which was sunk in the harbour during the raids, with the loss of 91 men.
CO HMAS Coonawarra CMDR Viktor Pilicic was pleased to see the large turnout at the Darwin events.
“With 75 years having passed it is important that we never forget this massive and sustained attack on the Australian mainland,” he said.
“The Darwin bombings resulted in significant loss of life that included not only members of the Australian military, but also large numbers of civilians and US military mem-bers who fought side-by-side with Australia to defend our shores.
“To see members of the Australian and international community stand together with Australian Navy, Army and Air Force personnel and US marines showed that these important connections stand strong to this day.”
More than 200 Australian and Allied personnel were killed in the bombing.
Dark day in a dark year
Air Force conducts a fly-past while members from 103 Battery, 8/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, take part in a depiction of the Bombing of Darwin its 75th anniversary on February 19. Photo: AB Kayla Hayes
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10 11RCEAIR F75th Anniversaries March 9, 2017
ON ITS 75th birthday, No. 32 Squadron has achieved a Squadron Standard.
Hundreds of people turned out for a special parade and consecration cer-
emony celebrate the occasion at RAAF Base East Sale.
ACAUST AVM Gavin Turnbull reviewed the parade, during which the unit was presented with a Squadron Standard with Battle Honours.
A Squadron Standard is awarded by order of the sovereign to an operational squadron for hav-ing completed at least 25 years’ service in the Air Force.
CO 32SQN WGCDR Matt Drummond was the Parade Commander and spoke of his pride in commanding the squadron.
“32SQN has a significant history with WWII battle honours in the Pacific, Coral Sea, Moresby, Rabaul, New Guinea and Milne Bay campaigns,” he said.
“The day was an opportunity to honour the bravery, sacrifice and critical role that 32SQN members performed during the war, and also to remember the 81 members who died while serv-ing with the squadron.”
The hour-long ceremony featured a 32SQN
formation fly-past, including a restored Hudson, and a low-level aerobatics display by a PC-9 from Central Flying School.
32SQN was formed in Port Moresby in February 1942 and was initially a reconnaissance and bomber squadron. These days its primary roles are training and air logistics.
“It was a proud day to be the commanding officer of this squadron and to be celebrating this achievement with both current and former mem-bers,” WGCDR Drummond said.
Commander Air Force Training Group AIRCDRE Geoffrey Harland said 32SQN had continued a proud tradition of training and air mobility within Air Force over many decades.
“When 32SQN was formed in 1942, it started life as a reconnaissance and bomber squadron, tasked with searching large tracts of ocean to locate enemy ships,” he said.
“Today, 75 years on, 32SQN uses modern King Air aircraft to train air combat officers and aviation warfare officers, and provide airlift sup-port to the ADF.”
He said 32SQN was “a credit to the RAAF and the wider ADF”.
A training and airlift squadron started as a bomber and recon unit, SQNLDR Jaimie Abbott reports
DIAMONDS IN THE RAAF
Setting the standard in bravery and longevity
THROUGHOUT its 75 years No. 34 Squadron has added a variety of remarkable passengers, cargo and milestones to its history books.
Formed in Darwin in February 1942, the squad-ron has carried everything and everyone, including the Royal Family, governors-general, and government leaders.
During its early years, 34SQN carried friendly and for-eign prisoners of war, essential wartime supplies and experi-ments for aerospace development.
At Defence Establishment Fairbairn, on February 23, members of 34SQN and their families celebrated the 75th anniversary of the unit’s formation.
Its origins are rooted in Air Force’s formation of four dedicated air transport units in early 1942, as Australia mobilised against Japanese forces in South East Asia.
The squadron was established four days after Darwin was hit with its first aerial bombardment on February 19, 1942. With just six personnel and two DeHavilland DH.84 Dragon biplanes, its first task was to transport the first Japanese prisoner of war to be captured on Australian soil.
On February 24, 1942, FLTLT E. M. Dunn flew in a twin-engine Dragon from Darwin to nearby Bathurst Island, where he collected Hajime Toyoshima.
During a raid against Bathurst Island’s aerodrome, Toyoshima’s A6M Zero fighter had been damaged and had came down on nearby Melville Island. The 34SQN Dragon took Toyoshima under armed guard to the mainland.
However, the war soon came to the squadron. As 34SQN’s other Dragon landed at Wyndham airfield in Western Australia on March 3, 1942, it was set upon by Japanese Zeros. Their Dragon ablaze, the crew and passen-gers narrowly escaped. Among them was Air Force wireless operator Thomas Bradshaw, who was key to the Allied inter-ception of Japanese naval and military traffic.
While additional Dragon, Anson and Tiger Moth aircraft were assigned to 34SQN, it struggled to work from bases in the Northern Territory before relocating to Parafield near Adelaide in January 1943.
In May 1943 it received its first C-47 Dakota transport aircraft and in June became the first operational RAAF unit with Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) personnel in its ranks. The WAAAF provided critical sup-port to the 34SQN Dakotas’ part in the Allied transport effort in New Guinea, airdropping key supplies to troops engaged in bitter rainforest warfare.
The Dakotas followed the Allied advance into Morotai, Tarakan and Labuan, repatriating Australian prisoners of war, before 34SQN was disestablished in June 1946.
A new dawn for 34SQN came with the British require-ment to test postwar rocket designs in the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. At Mallala Airfield in South Australia in 1948, 34SQN was re-established, ferrying people and equipment with an assortment of British twin-engine transports. These included the Bristol Freighter, with its unique clamshell nose that can load and unload cargo.
In October 1955, 34SQN was disbanded, but was re-established at RAAF Base Canberra in March 1956.
It took over the VIP Flight of No. 36 Squadron, and was tasked in the role it carries on today – providing flexible and effective transport for the Governor-General and Australian Government leaders.
Equipped with Dakotas and Convair Metropolitans for the transport role, 34SQN also took on Vampires and Winjeel training aircraft for a time. It has also operated a host of special-purpose aircraft, from the Vickers Viscount and HS748 turboprops to the BAC-111 and Mystere 20 jets.
In 1988, one of the first female Air Force pilots, PLTOFF Deborah Hicks, arrived at 34SQN to fly the Mystere. From 1989 until 2002, the unit operated the Dassault Falcon 900 transport, before transitioning to its mixed fleet of Challenger CL604s and Boeing Business Jets.
Now it stands on the cusp of another change to its fleet as the squadron looks at selecting a new platform.
CO 34SQN WGCDR Angus Porter said the new plat-form would sit alongside 33SQN’s introduction of a new KC-30A “to provide strategic government transport, equipped with communications equipment allowing global communications”.
“It is an exciting time for the squadron, and Air Force is well positioned to deliver a new era of excellence in VIP transport,” he said.
Moving with the times keeps a unit on the goVariety’s been 34SQN’s secret, Eamon Hamilton writes
AVM Gavin Turnbull presents Colour Bearer FLGOFF Callum Jackson with the Squadron Standard as CO 32SQN WGCDR Matt Drummond looks on.Inset: 32SQN members with their newly awarded Squadron Standard.Photos: PO Rick Prideaux
A Lockheed Hudson and two King Airs conduct a flyover of the 32SQN parade.
From left, ACW Amber Armstrong-Waters, FLTLT Ross King, OFFCDT Danny Kitcher and CO 34SQN WGCDR Angus Porter, at the unit’s 75th anniversary celebrations. Photo: CPL Mark Doran
34SQN C-47 Dakotas played a crucial part in the Allied transport effort over New Guinea during WWII.
The Mystere 20, BAC-111 and HS748 made up the 34SQN fleet from 1967 until 1989.
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UNREPORTED CHANGE OF CIRCUMSTANCEOVER a 20-month period, an ADF member received more than $33,000 in rent allowance they were not entitled to because of a change in circumstances. The member did not inform DHA of these changes and the matter came to light as a result of a report to the Defence Public Interest Disclosure Scheme.
The member was charged with crimi-nal fraud, found guilty and sentenced to an 18-month good behaviour bond. All the money fraudulently obtained by the member was recovered.
OBTAINED FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE BY DECEPTIONOVER a six-month period, an ADF member received full rent allowance while secretly sharing their property with several other people who paid rent to the member. The ADF Investigative Service was informed of the criminal activity by an anonymous informant and investigated.
Under the Defence Force Discipline Act, the member was found guilty of Obtaining a Financial Advantage by Deception, fined $1500 and reduced in rank. All the money fraudulently obtained by the member was recovered.
Ending allowance fraud This is a quarterly column detailing cases of fraud in the ADF. This first column focuses on allowance fraud and, in particular, rental allowance fraud
FOLLOWING an investigation into allowance fraud by the Fraud Control and Investigations Branch (FCIB), a former member of the
ADF was sentenced in the Toowoomba Magistrates’ Court to six months’ impris-onment and released on a good behaviour bond for two years, with a recognisance of $5000.
The member was also ordered by the court to repay $27,800.
The offender joined the ADF in 2005 and resided in service residences after being classified as member with depend-ants (MWD). His situation changed in 2007 when his marriage failed, coinciding with an overseas deployment.
The marriage break-up was not dis-closed to Defence, and at face value the member’s spouse had returned to the marital home. As the member failed to disclose the change in circumstance, his categorisation for rental allowance was not reviewed and he remained as MWD (unaccompanied). Over a number of years the member submitted a number of addi-tional fraudulent applications with respect to that MWD(U) categorisation.
The member began a new relation-ship and, in 2012, because of an unrelated incident involving his new partner, the member’s personal circumstances were reviewed by his commander. When ques-tioned about his marital status and cat-egorisation for allowances, the member dishonestly claimed he and his wife were in an open relationship and the relation-ship had only ended weeks earlier.
The matter was initially reported to the ADF Investigative Service, which investi-gated and identified a potential overpay-ment of $31,000. During this period, the member discharged from the ADF and the matter was transferred to FCIB to inves-tigate.
The investigation revealed the member dishonestly claimed a number of other
Defence Force case studies
allowances including accommodation and utility charges, reunion travel payments and separation allowance.
Despite leaving the ADF, the former member was located and charged with Dishonestly Causing a Loss or Risk of Loss, which resulted in a guilty plea to the relevant offences.
Assistant Secretary Fraud Control Meryl Clarke says cases like this remind personnel of their requirements to advise any changes to circumstances.
“It is imperative for members to advise Defence of a change in circumstances in order to avoid repayment and/or pros-ecution,” she said. “The FCIB commits significant intelligence and resources to detect and respond to behaviour such as that committed by this former member. The consequences are likely to include full repayment of money, possible loss of career and criminal prosecution.”
To discuss any concerns, email [email protected] or check out http://drnet.defence.gov.au/AssociateSecretary/AFCD/FCIB To report fraud, corruption, or abuse of resources call (02) 6266 4322 or email [email protected]. Reports can be made through the Defence Public Interest Disclosure Scheme at 1800 673 502 or [email protected]
FRAUD Control and Investiga-tions Branch (FCIB) is led by the Assistant Secretary Fraud Control (ASFC) Meryl Clarke.
The ASFC is the lead au-thority in Defence for prevent-ing, detecting and responding to fraud, corruption and related unethical conduct.
During 2017, FCIB will un-dertake significant face-to-face targeted ethics and fraud train-ing around Australia to raise awareness across Defence on the topics of ethics, fraud, conflict of interest and the De-
fence Public Interest Disclosure Scheme. FCIB comprises three directo-rates with responsibility for:Fraud Control♦ Ethics and fraud awareness
training: campus course and face-to-face presentations
♦ Fraud intelligence and detection
♦ Fraud policy and ethics advice
♦ Fraud risk managementInvestigations and Recovery♦ Complex investigations:
criminal, serious misconduct
and probity♦ Consultation with service
police and other Defence investigative authorities
♦ Receipt and assessment of allegations of fraud and cor-ruption, serious misconduct and unethical conduct
♦ Management of Defence Public Interest Disclosure Scheme
♦ Recovery of fraud debtsFraud Information Systems♦ Management of the Defence
Policing and Security Man-agement System
13March 9, 2017RCEAIR F Fraud and Ethics
FRAUD CONTROL AND INVESTIGATIONS BRANCH
Group Name Number
Navy Michael Andrews (02) 6265 3052
Army Grant Warner (02) 6265 6799
Air Force Ernie Walsh (02) 6266 6315
Assoc Sec Chris Metha (02) 6266 2626
CASG Paul Mulholland (02) 6265 7884
CIOG Kim Daniel (02) 6144 4422
CFO Melinda Gabriel (02) 6265 5669
DPG Amber Brentnall (02) 6265 5094
DPG Peta Rafty (02) 4034 6958
E&IG Gavin Chester (02) 6266 7981
DSTG Peter Lambert (02) 6128 6350
JOC Anna Hackett (02) 6128 4082
SP&IG John Toohey (02) 6265 4144
VCDF Matthew Avakian (02) 6265 4273
GROUP Fraud Control Coordinators are appointed by their respective group or service to form a department-wide network.
They inform Risk Stewards and Control Owners by regu-larly liaising with the Assistant Secretary Fraud Control and coordinating group or service specific fraud activities, such as:
♦ Biannual Defence fraud report processes
♦ Whole of Defence fraud risk assessment development and evaluation
♦ Individual group and service fraud risk assessment evaluation and treatment
♦ Strategic intelligence threat assessment capability initia-tives for high fraud risks and emerging threats
Group Fraud Control Coordinator Network
Feature RCEAIR F March 9, 201714
Last year was a very testing time for me. It started when I went to the RAAF Williamtown Health Centre Women’s Clinic
for a regular medical check.I also asked for a breast check and
was referred to Breast Screen Australia for a mammogram. I’d not had a mam-mogram since I turned 40, so it was about time for another.
The referral sat on the fridge for a few weeks until I decided it was time to organise an appointment.
The mammogram was on July 29. A few days later, I was advised the staff wanted to do further testing.
I felt something wasn’t quite right and remember talking to a colleague about it. It was like my body and mind were already trying to prepare me for what was to come. I didn’t think it was going to be good news.
So, on August 11, after an x-ray, an ultrasound and five biopsies, I was told it was highly likely I had a breast can-cer called Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS). It was confirmed three days later.
DCIS is a non-invasive cancer, which presents as abnormal changes in the cells in the milk ducts of the breast.
It was a huge shock, as breast can-cer was not in my family history and was something I never thought I’d have to go through.
The hour-long drive home after being diagnosed was lonely and emo-tional. Harder still was telling my hus-band Brian, 11-year-old son Callum and 23-year-old stepson Keegan. All I could do was be open with them and use their love and support as guidance.
My surgery was in September at the Newcastle Private Hospital, where the staff were fantastic and inspiring.
A few days later I was told they had removed the cancer with a clear margin and it hadn’t spread. It was a truly relieving thing to hear.
My treatment continued with 25 rounds of daily radiotherapy. That finished on December 13, meaning I could enjoy Christmas with my family.
The support I received from my family, the RAAF Women’s Clinic, Breast Screen NSW, Calvary Mater
Hospital, Newcastle Private Hospital and the Tomaree Breast Cancer Support Group was amazing. So too was the support from the members of 3CRU and 41 Wing.
What concerned me during this process was the fact many of my friends were unaware women in their 40s can be tested for breast cancer via a mammogram. They were under the impression they needed to be over 50.
All ADF members can seek a referral for breast screening through their medical officer or local Garrison Health Service, and Breast Screen Australia offers a national mammo-graphic breast cancer screening pro-gram for Australian women.
Free mammograms are also avail-able every two years to all Australian women aged 40 and over who do not have any symptoms of breast disease.
Had I not had this regular mammo-gram and left it until I was 50, I think my outcome could have been grimmer.
It takes only 30 minutes or so and could save a life. So keep breast cancer on your radar.
Her own brush with breast cancer has prompted LACW Tracey McCarthy, of 3CRU, to spread the word about earlier screening. She tells her story to CPL Mark Doran
Keeping cancer on the radar
ABOUT 1200 women are diag-nosed with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) each year in Aus-tralia.
It can be found in women at any age but most are between 50 and 59. It can also develop in men, though this is rare.
DCIS doesn’t usually ap-pear as a breast lump or breast change. Most women with DCIS
do not show any signs or symp-toms of having breast cancer.
Mammograms and ultra-sounds are the most common ways in which DCIS is diagnosed. If DCIS is suspected, a biopsy is usually required to confirm whether it is present.
For information visit www.cancerscreen-ing.gov.au or www.canceraustralia.gov.au
DON’T WAIT FOR SYMPTOMS
LACW Tracey McCarthy in front of a decommissioned radar system at RAAF Base Williamtown.Photo: SGT Brett Sherriff
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SGT Dave Morley
YEARS of hard work and intricate planning came to fruition with the opening and dedication of the St George’s Defence Holiday Suites at the Gold Coast’s Rainbow Bay on February 17.
Chair of the management commit-tee of the Service Personnel Anglican Help Society (SPAHS), and Army chaplain, CHAP Jim Cosgrove said the society’s founder, Rev Canon David Garland, returned from WWI after establishing diggers’ houses in Egypt, Palestine and Syria.
“Canon Garland said: ‘The boys will not return home normal. Their experiences have been too dreadful and their isolation from home sur-roundings unnatural. It is vital loving care should guide their footsteps back into civilian life,’ ” CHAP Cosgrove said.
“As we gather today under the shade of our new building 100 years later, I am proud to reassure everyone here, as well as our founder, Canon Garland, that his great work has con-tinued and will endure for decades to come.”
Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey and Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane Dr Phillip Aspinall unveiled the commemorative plaque.
Mr de Jersey, who served in the Queensland University Regiment from 1966-71 and was commissioned in 1969, said he was especially pleased to receive an invitation to attend the opening.
“In doing so, I am renew-
ing a commitment made by Sir John Lavarack, Queensland’s first Australian-born governor,” he said.
“Sir John Lavarack was a hero of WWI, who rose to the rank of lieu-tenant-general in WWII after dis-tinguished service at Tobruk and in Syria.
“He had a special affinity with returned servicemen and women and those who sought to support them, including groups like the Sailors and Soldiers Church of England Help Society – the antecedent of today’s Service Personnel Anglican Help Society.”
Mr de Jersey said the war was still close in memory when Sir John laid the foundation stone for the St George’s Holiday House in 1953.
“Rare was there a visit where Lavarack did not encounter returned soldiers who had served in units he had commanded,” he said.
“Today, as Governor, it is my immense honour to meet returned soldiers from our longest war, in Afghanistan, and those who served in Iraq, in East Timor and in peacekeep-ing missions throughout the world.
“These suites will serve a new gen-eration of Defence members and their families, as well as members from our coalition forces.
“They will allow serving members of the ADF, veterans and their fami-lies to enjoy this stunning environ-ment and its many attractions.”
For information go to www.stgeorges.net.au or email [email protected]
“A NICE little break before start-ing C-17 training,” was how a No. 36 Squadron pilot described his stay at the St George’s Defence Holiday Suites in mid-February.
FLTLT Lucas Webb (pictured) heard about the property from colleagues in his squadron.
He said its website was easily navigable and full of information.
“St George’s is right on the beach, is spacious, has modern facilities and there’s a raft of activities to do around the area,” he said.
“The value for money is out-standing and I’ve already told many of my ADF mates about it.”
Place to rest and recover
GREAT VALUE
The view from one of the St George’s Defence Holiday Suites balconies.Above: Anglican Archbishop of Sydney Dr Phillip Aspinall and Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey unveil the plaque at the opening.
FeatureRCEAIR F March 9, 2017 15
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16 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FPersonnel
FLTLT Natalie Giles
ON HER first deployment, LACW Erika Brennan has been awarded the Commander Air Task Group (CATG) “AIRMSHL Geoff Brown AO” Biannual Award Commendation.
LACW Brennan deployed to the Combined Air Operations Centre from July last year to February as part of Operation Okra and was responsible for identifying deliberate and dynamic targets, analysing civilian patterns of life and providing time-sensitive target information.
She provided targeting informa-tion during the campaign to liberate Eastern Mosul. During the offen-sive, ISIL formed elaborate defences over two years which not only kept out Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) but also kept residents of Mosul captive. Civilians were often used as human shields against coalition strikes, mak-ing targeting difficult.
After more than 100 days of complex urban combat, the Iraq Government and ISF announced the liberation of Eastern Mosul in late January.
“During my deployment, I was part of a small five-person team which included the targeting duty officer, tar-get SNCO and three analysts,” LACW Brennan said.
FLTLT Richard Lane (pictured) has been recognised with a Combined Joint Task Force Bronze Commen-dation for his work as the informa-tion management officer (IMO) while deployed to the Air Task Group (ATG) in the Middle East.
His position entailed managing data across the ATG, and maintain-ing and improving “SharePoint” as the records and content manage-ment tool across the MER.
He was also responsible for
training all incoming ATG staff, as well as issue management. “I saw my role as bridging technology and business to facilitate mission effec-tiveness,” FLTLT Lane said.
Dubbed the “SharePoint King” during his deployment, FLTLT Lane enjoyed helping people resolve SharePoint issues and building the website to better suit ATG needs.
“The difference between the information systems used in the strategic and deployed environ-
ments was a challenge,” he said.“However, I approached it with
the attitude of asking, ‘How can I change the system to get the result I need to best support the ATG mission?’ and that helped me to overcome that issue.”
FLTLT Lane’s lateral think-ing also enabled him to overhaul the mission planning process to remove the burden of emails being sent to and from the Combined Air Operations Centre.
On target with family pride
“We were a very close team with high standards. Without their hard work, mentorship and professionalism, I don’t think I would have grown pro-fessionally as much as I did.”
LACW Brennan said to be rec-ognised “for something that I truly enjoy doing is quite humbling and I am grateful that I have been able to represent my trade as well as the wider Air Force with this commendation”.
She said her family’s strong mil-itary background was the reason she chose to join the Air Force. Her grand-father was in the Australian Army Reserves for 22 years and his uncles all served in WWII. Her grandmother
also worked for the RSL Women’s Auxiliary for 30 years and her father was a soldier during the Pacific War.
“My grandparents are why I joined the military and have been a huge influence throughout my career. I am sure they will be very proud of what I have achieved over here,” she said.
Back in Australia, LACW Brennan will be posted to 81 Wing Tactical Intelligence Flight, providing targeting intelligence for the F/A-18A aircraft.
The commendation is named in honour of former CAF AIRMSHL Brown and goes to an individual who displays exemplary performance during each CATG tenure.
Lateral thinking overcomes obstacles
CATG AIRCDRE Phil Gordon presents LACW Erika Brennan
with her commendation.
Look forward
17March 9, 2017RCEAIR F Personnel
DEPARTURE LOUNGE
Name Must/Spec Last day Years
WGCDR Rodney Dawson ACO Jan 12 40
SQNLDR Geoffrey Thomas LOG Jan 21 37
WOFF Warren Ritchie SUP Jan 13 36
WGCDR Leona Down NURS Jan 13 35
FLTLT Jason Bomm ELECTR Jan 29 33
WGCDR Steven Force LOG Jan 23 32
FSGT Trevor Seebohm AFSEC Jan 16 31
SQNLDR Mark Burne ELECTR Jan 29 31
WOFF Graeme Biggs AVTECH Jan 8 30
SGT Michael Stephenson MOV Jan 8 30
FSGT Barry Cotter SUP Jan 26 30
WOFF Mark Picton AEA Jan 30 30
WOFF Ricky Pfeiffer CETECH Jan 13 29
CPL Scott Lander SUP Jan 29 29
FSGT Stuart Leonard MOV Jan 29 29
FSGT Ian O’Brien CISCON Jan 8 28
FSGT Andrew Bowen AVTECH Jan 3 27
FLTLT Darren Wise ELECTR Jan 29 27
LAC Michael Oliver COOK Jan 29 26
SQNLDR Matthew Tranter INTEL Jan 15 24
FLTLT Leah Burns PCO Jan 15 24
WGCDR Matthew Bowers PLT Jan 16 24
SQNLDR Anthony Radford PCO Jan 16 24
FSGT Jason Woodsell ARMTECH Jan 27 23
WGCDR Robert Paget CHAP Jan 1 22
FSGT Matthew Reeve ARMTECH Jan 8 22
WGCDR Duncan Blake LEGAL Jan 1 21
FSGT Kylie Marshall PCS Jan 15 21
SGT Jonathon Marshall AVTECH Jan 23 21
WGCDR Benjamin Main AERO Jan 2 20
SGT Andrew Morrell ATECH Jan 9 20
SQNLDR Nicholas Luck GRDEF Jan 16 20
Who’s leaving after 20+ years
CPL Hayley Geisler
CPL Margaret-Rose Nansen, a reserve personnel capability spe-cialist at No. 33 Squadron, will rep-resent Air Force in New Zealand this year after being chosen to par-ticipate in the Tasman Scheme in 2016-17.
CPL Nansen, who was given the honour at a vice-regal ceremony at Government House in Brisbane late last year, is the only Air Force rep-resentative for the scheme.
Her work ethic and dedica-tion to providing quality service to 33SQN personnel earned her the two-week secondment with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).
WGCDR Robert Williams, 33SQN’s CO at the time of the award, said CPL Nansen was a high performer and deserved to be selected.
“CPL Nansen has excelled in a strictly merit-based selection to represent the ADF internationally,” he said.
“This is a clear indication to me that she has impressed senior man-
agement at 33SQN, and her per-formance has made a significant impression on the Cadet Reserve and Employer Support Division.
“CPL Nansen will undoubt-edly gain significant professional development from the Royal New Zealand Air Force deployment and this will certainly increase her effectiveness at 33SQN when she returns.”
The scheme promotes reserve service and aims to reward high-performance and the exceptional achievements from junior non-com-missioned officers of the ADF.
Units nominate individual reservists, who are reviewed by a committee that determines a nation-al order of merit.
CPL Nansen said she was hon-oured to accept her selection.
“Being presented my award at a function at Government House was a night I will never forget,” she said.
“I hope to learn what challeng-es face the NZDF, from a human perspective. I would also love the opportunity to travel to Antarctica and sky dive with the NZDF.”
Leadership coaching PAF and reserve members keen to use their skills to help others can apply for the Leadership Coaching Course at RAAF Base Glenbrook from May 1-5.
The course will focus on leadership devel-opment at all levels and aims to produce coaches who assist other Air Force person-nel to be more effective and self-aware.
Successful applicants will participate in a five-day course that leads to a Certificate IV in Workplace and Business Coaching. PAF members will be expected to provide 15 to 20 days’ coaching a year and reserve mem-bers about 30 days.
Applicants should have outstanding inter-personal skills and be comfortable working with high-performing people.
For information and to apply go to http://drnet.defence.gov.au/raaf/AFAC/Coaching/Pages/Coaching.aspx.
Military skills instructorsAPPLICATIONS for about 30 military skills instructor (MSI) positions in 2018 close on March 31.
Any Airman Career Manager FSGT Kyle Mitchell said candidates should go to the 1 Recruit Training Unit and DP-AF sites for information and videos about MSIs.
The three-day MSI orientation will be at 1RTU in June. The candidates will then front a board, which will determine their suitability.
FSGT Mitchell said MSIs required a range of hard and soft skills, including the emotional intelligence to deal with sensitive situations.
Anyone posting in to MSI positions will be eligible for the MSI Capability Bonus of $10,000 for each 12 months. Information about the bonus and the MSI job profile is available through the DP-AF site.
Crossing the ditch
TRAINING NEWS
CPL Margaret-Rose Nansen at work with
33SQN.Photo: CPL Ben Dempster
‘I think a lot of people who believe they’re informed are unfortunately reading pseudo-science.
Mandy Hagstrom University of New
England35 years of mental health support for veterans
The Veterans and VeteransFamilies Counselling Service(VVCS) celebrated its 35th birthdayon 29 January 2017.
VVCS, known originally as theVietnam Veterans’ CounsellingService, provides free mental healthcounselling and support to thosewho have served our nation.
It has provided more than 1.6 million counselling sessions to more than 300,000veterans and family members since the first office opened inAdelaide on 29 January 1982.
The program is the legacy of our Vietnam veterans, who recognised a need formental health services specifically for those who had served in the military.VVCS now provides services to more than 27,000 clients a year, with centresthroughout Australia and a strong network of outreach counsellors in regionaland rural areas.
Support for service-related issuessuch as anger, anxiety, depression,post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)and sleep disturbance is provided bythe program.
VVCS clinicians work with couplesand families on relationship issuesthat arise from the unique demandsof military life, and run a range ofgroup programs including free suicideprevention workshops for members ofthe veteran community.
Our commitment to providing support to serving and ex-serving personnel andtheir families remains as strong as ever.
For more information about the program visitwww.vvcs.gov.au or follow us on Facebook
35 years of mental health support for veteransThe Veterans and VeteransFamilies Counselling Service(VVCS) celebrated its 35th birthdayon 29 January 2017.
VVCS, known originally as theVietnam Veterans’ CounsellingService, provides free mental healthcounselling and support to thosewho have served our nation.
It has provided more than 1.6 million counselling sessions to more than 300,000veterans and family members since the first office opened inAdelaide on 29 January 1982.
The program is the legacy of our Vietnam veterans, who recognised a need formental health services specifically for those who had served in the military.VVCS now provides services to more than 27,000 clients a year, with centresthroughout Australia and a strong network of outreach counsellors in regionaland rural areas.
Support for service-related issuessuch as anger, anxiety, depression,post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)and sleep disturbance is provided bythe program.
VVCS clinicians work with couplesand families on relationship issuesthat arise from the unique demandsof military life, and run a range ofgroup programs including free suicideprevention workshops for members ofthe veteran community.
Our commitment to providing support to serving and ex-serving personnel andtheir families remains as strong as ever.
For more information about the program visitwww.vvcs.gov.au or follow us on Facebook
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18 March 9, 2017RCEAIR FHealth & Fitness
UNCOVERING sugary myths and fat facts about diet and weight loss can be a never-end-ing maze of seemingly contra-
dictory information, but sound advice depends on the source.
University of New England lecturer in Exercise and Sports Science Mandy Hagstrom said there was a lot of debate over fat-versus-sugar and how it should affect our food choices.
“Firstly, sugar is found everywhere, it’s in every single carbohydrate,” Dr Hagstrom said.
“There are natural sugars found in fruit and in dairy, for example. Lactose in milk is a natural sugar.”
Sugar occurs in various forms, the most obvious being processed sugar in chocolate, soft drinks, table sugar and muesli bars.
Whether it’s from a lolly or from an apple, Dr Hagstrom said there was no difference in sugar’s effect on the body.
“In the apple, you’ve got quite a bit of sugar but you’ve got a lot of fibre as well,” she said.
“Fibre is something that’s often overlooked in the diet and a lot of Australians don’t meet the recommend-ed daily guidelines.
“The benefit of having your sugar in the form of an apple is you get extra nutritional value through vitamins and minerals, but in realistic terms it has lit-tle effect on your bodyweight.”
If sugar is not the devil, is fat to blame for weight gain? Dr Hagstrom said this wasn’t necessarily the case.
“Fat is a necessary nutrient,” she said.
“Fat helps with the synthesis of hor-mones in our body so it’s important we have an adequate fat intake.
“Not a l l fa ts are the same. Unsaturated fats that are found in things like avocados and nuts are better for you than saturated fats.”
Dr Hagstrom said the most over-looked dietary phenomenon was caloric balance.
“A lot of current research shows that energy balance, or making sure you expend as much energy as you con-sume, is the biggest factor in weight maintenance,” she said.
“Energy in equals energy out.“If people are looking to change
Make the right choicesSugar and fats are necessary nutrients in a balanced diet, PTE Renee Breeze reports, but it’s important to make sure they come from healthy sources
their weight, it’s probably the first thing they should look at.”
Dr Hagstrom said there was no sin-gle culprit to blame for weight gain.
“We’re becoming more aware in terms of food choices, but I think there’s also a lot of misinformation out there,” she said.
“I think a lot of people who believe they’re informed are unfortunately read-ing pseudo-science.
“Get advice from reputable health professionals rather than only from people writing blogs because they love food or the gym.”
Sugar is found in a lot of food, so it’s more important to choose the source of that sugar wisely rather than avoiding it altogether. Photo: Jayson Tufrey
Dr Hagstrom said busy people could take a few steps to ensure they were not overdoing their daily energy require-ments.
“Always ensure there’s a source of protein on your plate,” she said.
“Having some kind of meat source in your meal is really helpful if you’re not a vegetarian.
“If you’re at a restaurant, ask for the dressing on the side.”
COL I s aac Se id l , D i r ec to r Garrison Operations, said Joint Health Command recommended taking advan-tage of Defence’s resources.
“Any ADF member seeking infor-mation about diet or healthy lifestyle options should see a medical profes-sional at their local Garrison Health Centre,” he said.
“They can provide advice and sup-port for a better health outcome.”
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SPIT POLISHED PRESENTATIONS
19March 9, 2017RCEAIR F Sp rt
CPL Mark Doran
HAVING participated in triathlons on and off for 26 years, SQNLDR Teresa Wynter is competing with as much enthusiasm as ever.
“It’s in my blood. It makes me tick,” she said, after finishing third in the 40-44 age group in the sprint event at the Huskisson Triathlon Festival at Jervis Bay on February 18 and 19.
SQNLDR Wynter, a senior air traffic controller and flight com-mander with No. 453 Squadron in Nowra, was one of more than 20 Defence athletes who represented the ADF Triathlon Club (ADFTC) in the main events, including the sprint, enticer and long-course triathlons.
The sprint was a 750m swim, fol-lowed by a 20km ride and a 5km run, and the enticer was a 200m swim, 8km ride and 2km run.
The long course was the main challenge of the festival, comprising a 2km swim, 83km ride and 20km run.
SQNLDR Wynter hit the sprint in the first wave and finished her swim in fifth position. After a fast 20km bike course in pouring rain, she began the run in third slot and, despite feeling “flat” in the final leg, finished in that position with a time of 1hr 17min 45sec.
She was pleasantly surprised at the outcome, given her intermittent training.
“I never felt like I really got going on the bike leg, as it is usually my strongest leg, and my run was a bit slow, but I was very happy with my result,” she said.
She said although triathlons were an individual sport, she enjoyed shar-ing in other people’s joy.
“I love watching new ADFTC members complete their first tri-athlon, as this is where the true joy comes from in this amazing sport.
“The Husky also helps promote community spirit in the local area and gives soldiers, sailors and air-women an opportunity for recogni-tion as Defence members.”
The other Air Force competitor, FLTLT Samantha Lam, of No. 22 Squadron, finished strongly in her age group in 1:51:01.
FLTLT Lam said she set the goal of completing a sprint after doing her first enticer last year.
“My next goal is Noosa with the ADFTC for an Olympic distance,” she said.
“I love competing against myself and doing the best that I can do. It’s all about pushing yourself to improve and the mental aspect of the event makes it rewarding.”
The first Air Force finisher in the long-course event was FLTLT Michael Varga, of 453SQN. He placed 10th in the 30-34 age group in 4:34:49.
He was followed by WGCDR Col Smith, who finished sixth in the 50-54 age group in 4:44:43
SQNLDR Wynter backed up her shorter Saturday race by cycling for a team, including a Navy member and his wife, in the long-course event.
Triathlon is no trial because ‘it makes me tick’
CPL Mark Doran
SEVEN ADF Nordic Skiing and Biathlon Association members spent Australia Day in the heart of the Bavarian Alps for a British military nordic skiing and biathlon competition.
They competed in Exercise Rucksack 2017, the Bri t ish National, Interservice and Army Championships, in Ruhpolding, Bavaria (Gemany), from January 20 to February 15.
Exercise Rucksack is the British military’s pinnacle championships in nordic skiing and biathlon, and the top-performing members are selected to represent Great Britain at World Cup and Olympic levels.
The biathlon involved cross-country skiing and competition shooting in the prone and standing positions.
The ADF contingent competed against biathletes from the British Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Marines, a German Army Reservist team and selected civilians.
Their aim was to foster good-will and esprit de corps while enhancing courage, initiative, team-work, fitness and resilience in a challenging alpine environment.
LAC Stuart Reed, of No. 65 Squadron, performed well in ski-ing and shooting in his first time at Ruhpolding.
LAC Reed said he enjoyed competing and engaging with the elite athletes from the German and British teams.
“My favourite race was the 20km biathlon because it chal-lenged and inspired me to perform at a higher level,” he said.
“I found the training phase in Obertilliach, Austria, invaluable as it allowed the team to develop while being exposed to demanding conditions.
“It was surreal, but also a privi-lege, to train with world-class biathletes at top-level venues.”
The ADF has been sending teams to participate on Exercise Rucksack for 12 years.
Lead-up training for the 2017 competition took place in Austria and Italy and consisted of 10 days of skiing and technique develop-ment in arduous conditions.
The team then moved to Ruhpolding, where members par-ticipated in eight races over 2½ weeks, including the sprint (7.5km) and Olympic (20km) events and the team relay.
The competition culminated in a 30km military patrol race in which members navigated to checkpoints carrying military equipment and rifles.
The ADF Nordic Skiing and Biathlon Association promotes cross-country skiing and biathlon with the annual two-week Exercise Coolshot, run by the Army Nordic Skiing Association, Navy Nordic Skiing and Biathlon Association and the Air Force Nordic Biathlon Association at Mount Hotham in the Victorian Alps. For information visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/vcdf/Sports-NordicSkiingBiathlon/Pages/Welcome.aspx
Aiming high with hotshots
LAC Stuart Reed in the biathlon relay race in
Ruhpolding as part of Exercise Rucksack.
SQNLDR Teresa Wynter (left) crosses the line in the Huskisson Triathlon Festival sprint event.Photo: AB Sarah Ebsworth
© Image courtesy of Department of Defence
Assisting serving and ex-servingADF members and their familiesin times of injury, illnessand crisis.
rsldefencecare.org.au
SP RTMarch 9, 2017
FULL CYCLE
Triathlete still strong 26 years on
Page 19
SQNLDR Teresa Wynter rides through the rain during the Huskisson
Triathlon Festival.Photo: AB Sarah Ebsworth
Sights on the slopes
P19