The soldiers’ newspaperEdition 1459 February 20, 2020

HAPPY FEETBoot-scooting RFS volunteer brings smiles to nation Page 11

Reconnaissance and surveillance on point

for 2RAR soldiersCENTRE

BATTLE READY

Pte Arlen Treston, of 2RAR, leads his reconnaissance

patrol during an early morning beach insertion at the Cowley Beach Training

Area, North Queensland. Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy

FAREWELLCommunity send-off for ADF troops

EX MARS MIXCommandos are put to the test Page 14Page 3

OUR TEAMDirector David Edlington

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Reporters Sgt Max Bree Sgt Dave MorleyCpl Sebastian BeurichCpl Veronica O’Hara Cpl Julia WhitwellLS Kylie Jagiello

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Sgt Dave Morley

ARMY’S small number of vet-erinary officers have been in high demand during Operation Bushfire Assist.

From Kangaroo Island in South Australia to various locations across the fire grounds of Victoria and NSW, veterinary officers have been supporting the health and welfare of all creatures great and small.

One of the ADF’s most expe-rienced veterinary officers, Maj

Kendall Crocker, of 3HSB, has been supporting Joint Task Force 1110 in NSW and has toured exten-sively across the area of operations.

Maj Crocker said animal casual-ties had been a major feature of the bushfire emergency.

“Millions of domestic pets, horses, livestock and native wild-life have been displaced, killed, injured or orphaned as a result of the widespread catastrophic fires,” Maj Crocker said.

“Our veterinary officers have

been pleased to be able to provide welcome support to civilian veteri-nary and other efforts to save threat-ened wildlife.”

Maj Crocker was in the Cooma area on January 29, where he assist-ed in the treatment of a rescued koala at the “pop-up” wildlife triage and treatment clinic established at Cooma Caravan Park by the New Zealand non-government organisa-tion, Helping You Help Animals.

“This facility has just been established to enable the local wild-

life rescue network to access veteri-nary triage and treatment of injured and ill wildlife,” Maj Crocker said.

“It is very rewarding to work with veterinarians and other vol-unteers from across Australia and around the world to help save our valuable native animals so tragi-cally impacted by the fires.”

Maj Crocker assisted the vet-erinary team to administer a drip to a dehydrated and malnourished female koala brought in from the nearby Numeralla fire ground.

Great and small

Sgt Dave Morley

ARTILLERYMEN of 9 Regt proved they can turn their hand to almost anything when they were tasked with searching bushfire-damaged forests for koalas in need of help.

The detachment of gunners from Newcastle, Sydney and Canberra – equipped with the latest in thermal imaging technology and drones – formed up in extended line on January 29 for a detailed search of rough country 20km to the east of Cooma in southern NSW.

Within just a few hours they had located six koalas and wildlife officers marked the trees for a following rescue team able to scale tall timber.

Threatened species officer with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Rod Pietsch, said it was important to have Army assisting because the soldiers were trained and motivated to conduct a search in the way his department needed it done.

“They can maintain a line, they

have discipline, as well as observa-tion skills,” Mr Pietsch said.

“To find six koalas in the time they did was amazing.”

Mr Pietsch said the recovery of the animals extends to more than rescue on an individual level.

“We need to understand how the koalas survived the fire,” he said

“It also teaches us about how to assess if they may need further attention.”

Bdr Ian Johnson said to find two in the first search felt pretty good.

“I walked past under the tree,

but then looked back and there they were,” he said.

Bdr Johnson said the koala mission was a logical task for them to be offered.

“We’re doing this task because we’ve got thermal imaging equip-ment and drones, and it’s also good training for us,” he said.

“It’s also good being out on the ground doing what we can for the community.”

LBdr Daniel Stoian is a mortar line section commander, a drone operator and, out of uniform, a

patents examiner with the Patents Office in Canberra.

He completed his drone opera-tor’s course in October last year.

“I was able to see the koalas, using the drone’s normal visual camera and also its infrared camera,” LBdr Stoian said.

“I was even able to record one koala moving his head to look at the drone.

“As a soldier you have to be versatile, so it was good to be able to help the wildlife people find these koalas.”

Search effort

Bdr Matthew Robinson, of 23 Light Battery, left, and Lt Charlie Allen, of 7 Fd Regt, explain to NSW Government threatened species officer Rod Pietsch, how a drone works to patrol spot fires. Photo: Sgt Dave Morley

Veterinary officer Maj Kendall Crocker, second from right, assists volunteer veterinarians, from left, Ryan Dunn, Todd Driggers and Sarah Donald, administer a drip to a dehydrated koala at a ‘pop-up’ animal triage clinic in Cooma, NSW. Photo: Sgt Dave Morley

Operation Bushfire Assist2

February 20, 2020 Operation Bushfire Assistdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 3

Maj Carrie Robards

NOT many of us can claim to have broken the internet, but Gnr Griffin Hughes did just that with his boot-scooting to the chart-topping song The Git Up.

The video gained social and main-stream media fame but, more impor-tantly, put a smile on many faces.

Gnr Hughes, or “Dancing Griffin”, is posted to the School of Artillery (SOArty) at the Puckapunyal Military

Area. A Denman local, he had been performing volunteer firefighting duties with the Mangoola Rural Fire Service (RFS) while on stand-down leave.

“I’ve been in the Rural Fire Service for about two years now. My role is a BF (basic fire fighter), which means that I can attend all jobs except for going inside a structural fire,” Gnr Hughes said.

“I enjoy fire fighting because I find it a lot like a sport, not a job. I get the

same rush before going to a fire as an NRL player would before stepping on the field.”

After around seven hours of back-burning near Newcastle on January 7, the crew took a break for a late dinner.

“We had a rest to have something to eat and one of the fellas started playing music through the truck, so without putting too much thought into it I decided to start busting a move,” he said.

An artillery gunner for the past 18

months, Gnr Hughes has found cama-raderie the highlight of both roles.

“My favourite part of the Army is definitely the guys and girls that I work with. I love the job and what I do but the people I work with take the job another step up,” Gnr Hughes said.

The then Commander Forcomd, Maj-Gen Chris Field, praised the sol-dier’s ability to “inspire and motivate others during challenging and complex incidents”.

“You are the embodiment of Good

Soldiering … and a credit to your unit, Forces Command and the Australian Army,” Maj-Gen Field said.

Gnr Hughes, still recovering from the unexpected attention, can see the similarities in both his RFS and SOArty roles.

“Both jobs give you a sense of pride while doing it and definitely make you feel like you’re doing better for the country and community,” he said.

Gnr Griffin Hughes is back to work at the School of Artillery

after being involved in fire fighting with the Mangoola Rural Fire Service during stand down.

Photo: LCpl Chris Tant

Dance the night away

Cpl Sebastian Beurich

AN IMPORTANT role in Operation Bushfire Assist is the one performed by military chap-lains. The presence of a uniformed chaplain can help people cope.

No one knows this better than the military chaplains who have provided pastoral care to thousands of people affected by the fires and the uniformed members helping them.

And it’s not just Australian chaplains. Chap Benstead Bareta, of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, said meeting people was different from cutting trees but it was part of being human and helped just as much.

“I meet them, share with them and I feel good. I feel blessed to meet a person who has been traumatised and have the opportunity to share a verse from the Bible or just any phrase or sentence of hope,” he said.

“Everywhere we go, they’re thankful, say-ing, ‘Thank you for coming all this way’, and ‘Thank you very much, you’re a blessing’. They’re uplifted and happy.

“When they are happy I am happy. But

when they are sad I empathise with them.”Chap Bareta, with Australian Army coun-

terpart Chap Chris Booth, travelled through-out the Victorian high country, talking to residents, volunteers and soldiers.

They helped with food deliveries, distributed medi-cines and talked to many people. Their mission was to show people they were not alone and connect them with the help available.

“I’m very aware of the big and little things. Whether it’s something like fixing a fence or if I detect mental health concerns,” Chap Booth said.

He said the soldiers were smart, skilled and quick to think everything was an engineering job. “But they’re also extremely good at talking to families and kids, being a helpful distrac-

tion and getting them to forget about what life has been like,” he said.

“It’s an absolute privilege to walk along-side people and be the one they vent, cry or chat to.”

Welcome blessings in uniforms

Chap Chris Booth with Chap Benstead Bareta and soldiers from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force during a visit to the Swift Creek Base Camp in support of Operation Bushfire Assist. Photo: Pte Madhur Chitnis

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Operation Bushfire Assist4

Cpl Julia Whitwell

LIKE throwing a paper plane, 20 Regt RAA’s Bdr Jarrod Logan launched a Wasp AE unmanned aerial system (UAS) from a paddock 20km south of Canberra, to survey blazing scrub of the Orroral Valley on February 6.

The smoky skies were patrolled by 20 Regt between 5-9am each day while fire threatened nearby homes.

By 8am Capt Shaun Montgomery was relaying a sitrep to the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) planning team.

“MRH90s, MH-60Rs and civilian

aircraft were flying in the area all day from 9am and most of the night, but there was up to a seven-hour gap over-night when the fire wasn’t being moni-tored. The first details of where the fire had spread overnight often came from reports back from crews on the ground,” Capt Montgomery said.

“We saw an opportunity to provide reconnaissance support and coordi-nated the airspace to enable operations during that early-morning timeframe.”

Bdr Logan said information from UAS patrols helped the ESA decide how to battle the ongoing inferno.

“The Wasp AE is able to capture

electro-optical and infrared imagery of the scene below,” Bdr Logan said.

“We’ve been able to provide some really good product to help the ESA detect where the fire front is and decide how to best delegate their resources.”

He said the Wasp AE was normally

Chap Derek Croser with Jodie Meikle and Steven Childs.

Bdr Jarrod Logan, of 20 Regt RAA,

launches a Wasp. Photo: Cpl Julia Whitwell

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used to assist with reconnaissance, so fire surveillance was a fitting use of the UAS.

“It’s great we’re able to use our unique skill-set and equipment to help out in this time of need,” Bdr Logan said.

“It feels pretty rewarding to make a difference in the community.”

February 20, 2020 Operation Bushfire Assistdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 5

Capt Tom Maclean

THE Army has been thanked for retrieving a hospital patient’s bed in the middle of the night during a bushfire crisis on Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Six RAEME members of 9CSSB carried out the mission for Steven Childs, a 53-year-old farmer and father of two, who is a quadriplegic from an accident.

On January 7, Mr Childs had already relocated to Kingscote Hospital to be a safe distance from the firefront. But his empty farm-house on the west side of Kangaroo Island was at great risk of being destroyed by an out-of-control bushfire.

Inside his home remained his high-tech medical bed worth about $25,000 that automatically adjusts

his body while he sleeps. The bed was only six months old.

If the bed had been destroyed, Mr Childs would have been stranded in a regular hospital bed and returned to a frustrating nightly routine where he would be woken up every two hours so a support worker could roll him on his side so he didn’t develop bed sores.

Mr Childs said it could have taken months to get a replacement bed.

Chap Derek Croser became a point of contact for Mr Childs and his support worker, Jodie Meikle, as part of the process in getting the support he needed. They worked with the ADF’s Emergency Support Force to hatch a plan to save the bed.

“The Army are on their way” Ms Meikle said to Mr Childs.

The team of six soldiers drove across Kangaroo Island at 10pm. They hastily retrieved the bed and delivered it to Kingscote Hospital at about 1am.

“I was so happy I cried,” Ms Meikle said.

Mr Childs said he was very appreciative of the soldiers who saved his bed.

“I just can’t thank them enough” he said.

“I grow potatoes so maybe I could feed the whole Army.”

Chap Croser said it was great to see the bed delivered safely.

“It’s an amazing thing to be able to assist people in times of need,” Chap Croser said.

“The Army has many ways to help people in unique situations, both practically and emotionally.”

Midnight rescue for high-tech bed

Leut Max Logan

TWO bridges constructed by the Australian, Fijian and Papua New Guinea militaries will improve access to a popular tourist attraction in Victoria in the wake of the 2019-20 bushfires.

The medium girder bridge materials were transported on Army trucks to the Buchan Cave Reserve in the Gippsland Region, which attracts thousands of visitors every year, after the origi-nal bridges were burnt beyond repair.

A team comprised of ADF, Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel worked

together to turn the materials into functioning bridges, which will enable national parks work-ers and tourists to access the existing roads by vehicle.

OIC of the first bridge build Cpl Hayden Archer said the bridges would eventually enable the reserve to get back to full operation.

“As the OIC, I make sure the sequence is correct – building the bridge we have to con-struct certain parts at certain times and I ensure that happens,” Cpl Archer said.

“Working with the RFMF and PNGDF per-sonnel has been excellent – they all have good attitudes and work hard.

“I’m proud to contribute to getting the com-munity back to normal. It’s great to be embraced by the local community and great to see them getting back on their feet.”

LS Joseva Delei, of the RFMF detachment, said the team enjoyed the heavy lifting.

“Most of the equipment we lifted by hand so we just needed manpower for that,” LS Delei said.

“It’s the first time for me in Australia and it’s been a pleasure, especially contributing to the bushfire assist effort.

“We’re just here to help the ADF and Australia out to rebuild communities.”

Three is no crowd for bridge-building efforts

Parks Victoria rangers and Army engineers, of 3CER, with Republic of Fiji Military Forces and Papua New Guinea Defence Force soldiers on a temporary medium girder bridge installed at Buchan Caves, Victoria. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

Soldiers from 20 Regt RAA gather around their workstation as they guide their AE Wasp III small unmanned aerial system over the Orroral Valley fire in the south of the ACT. Photo: Capt Shaun Montgomery

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Operation Bushfire Assist6

Cpl Sebastian Beurich

RESIDENTS in Omeo, Victoria, got a closer look at some of the vehicles and equipment they had seen around town as Task Group Dingo, part of bushfire relief efforts, opened its doors on January 27.

There was a variety of equip-ment on display, including Rheinmetall MAX HX40m and Rheinmetall MAN HX77 trucks, Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles and metal-detecting equipment.

Papua New Guinea Defence

Force soldiers also performed a cul-tural display, singing and dancing for the crowds.

Omeo local Kate said the day was far busier than she thought it would be.

“It was terrific. It was very well supported and I thought the day was great,” she said.

“Everything was really good. The size of the vehicles was sur-prising and everyone was very enthusiastic. We enjoyed the day immensely.”

The highlight for most who attended was a Bushmaster ride.

The driver, Spr Joshua Oxford, said the children loved it.

“A few of the parents got amongst it, as well as a woman who didn’t have use of her legs,” Spr Oxford said.

“We managed to pick her up and get her to have a go, which she really enjoyed and her family came and thanked us afterwards.

“A few of the adults were really appreciative. They’re very happy for what we’re doing. I think they got a really good understanding of what we’re doing here and what equip-ment we’re using to do it.”

Opening their doors

Omeo local Ryan checks out the view from a Bushmaster.

Photo: Cpl Sebastian Beurich

Cpl Sebastian Beurich

SOLDIERS took the opportunity to learn about the Victoria State Emergency Service’s road crash rescue equipment dur-ing a skills exchange in Bright.

Taking some time out from helping the local community in January during Operation Bushfire Assist, Victorian-based 4 Bde soldiers showed the SES volunteers through their Bushmasters and in return were shown some of the specialised search-and-rescue skills held by their counterparts.

Pte Andrew Cuttler, of 5/6RVR, who works as an emergency nurse, had the opportunity to use the jaws-of-life to “peel” the roof off a car.

“Getting behind the jaws-of-life was definitely an experience you don’t get often, but it’s a lot different to what I thought – the hydraulics really do all the work,” Pte Cuttler said.

“Seeing the amount of effort that goes into extracting a casualty from a vehicle really gives you an appreciation of how delicately they treat casualties.

“I’ve never really seen that side of road rescue before, so when I transition back to my role as a civilian nurse, having expo-sure to such a delicate rescue will make me value the time and effort that it takes to extract the casualties to minimise further injury.”

The Bright SES holds several capabili-ties outside of road rescue, including alpine search-and-rescue and technical rescues.

“Especially for a lot of the personnel who are Melbourne-based, SES is normally thought of as the people who are putting tarps on roofs, cutting up trees or helping out in floods,” Pte Cuttler said.

“I knew they had road-rescue capability but actually seeing the process was quite eye opening.

“It showed us how important volunteers are in country towns, because they keep the town running.

“If you crash your car or get stuck up in the mountains, it’s the volunteers who will come and get you out and save your life, which is quite extraordinary for a 100 per cent volunteer unit.”

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Pte Andrew Cuttler, of 5/6RVR, assists an SES volunteer in using the jaws-of-life during a training exercise at the Bright SES depot. Photo: Cpl Sebastian Beurich

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February 20, 2020 Operation Bushfire Assistdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 7

Sgt Max Bree

BANTER flowed effortlessly between Yuin Elder Uncle Glenn Campbell and Capt Shane James.

They talked about their mobs, the local youth and south coast’s performance in last year’s Koori rugby league knock-out.

“Since they’re the reigning champions it made building a con-nection easier,” Capt James said.

They stood on land of the Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Council, where Capt James and sappers of 5ER helped out with bushfire preparation efforts in January. Despite Capt James being a Worimi man from Newcastle, he tapped into a network of Aboriginal land councils on the NSW south coast to see what help his regiment could offer.

“Mob-to-mob connection is how we do things; on their land we’re working for them,” Capt James said.

“We respect our elders, they’re our teachers, we inform them of

what we can provide and they guide us on what’s required for their com-munity. They are the leaders.”

Despite the Merrimans’ area being unaffected by recent bush-fires, the community would have faced problems if the fires reached them.

“There is only one way in and one way out, so they would have been cut off. There were only over-grown fire trails,” Capt James said.

“They wouldn’t have been able to evacuate a lot of the com-munity who may have be mobility impaired.”

Sappers set to work with chain-saws and bulldozers, clearing some trees and restoring dirt tracks.

“They gave our fire trails a touch-up because they were a bit overgrown and needed a going over,” Uncle Glenn said.

“They’ve done a good job. That means better access.

“We only had one way in or out, so with this other track opened up we’ve got another side way out

without getting burnt in case of a fire.

“They’re top blokes, I’m proud of them coming down this way, as I haven’t seen them for a while.”

Sappers from 5ER earlier worked for the Mogo Local Aboriginal Land Council, which lost new equipment in the bush-fires. They cleared routes and pre-pared a site for new demountable buildings to be used while the land council rebuilds.

During Operation Bushfire Assist, Capt James worked as an operations officer when not con-ducting Indigenous liaison.

In his civilian life, he works for the University of Newcastle’s Wollotuka Institute as their per-formance, policy and operations manager.

He also boasts 25 years’ experi-ence working with community.

“The board members were happy when the Army came in. It’s good being on mob land assisting mob,” Capt James said.

Community connection

Army officer and Worimi man Capt Shane James speaks with Yuin Elder Uncle

Glenn Campbell on the property of the Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Photos: Sgt Max Bree

An Army bulldozer, driven by a sapper of 5ER, repairs a fire trail on property of the Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Sgt Dave Morley

ALTHOUGH he’s from a small town on the far north coast of NSW, Army Reserve driver Pte Aaron Smith, pictured, had no trouble finding his way around the city of Canberra to drop off and pick up personnel and stores.

Pte Smith, from the Newcastle-based 16 Tpt Sqn, 8CSSB, said it was great to get in and help the ACT community when it real-ly needed ADF support, while attached to Emergency Services ACT.

“I’ve been driving their van and taking their stores, such as fire-hose fittings, pallets of bottled water, admin documentation and food, out to RFS and SES stations on the edge of the city,” Pte Smith said.

“The SES volunteers said they appreciated me getting the stores

out to where they were needed on time.

“Their logistics specialist was then able to get other tasks done, like ordering more supplies in, because I was doing the deliveries for him.”

Ear l ier in h is Operat ion Bushfire Assist deployment, Pte Smith was trained at NSW RFS HQ in Sydney on the Portable Automat ic Weather S ta t ion (PAWS).

“We had to drive up to Taree and Casino on the north coast and pick up two PAWS to rede-ploy to Belowra on the south coast and Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains,” he said.

“The RFS member we were working with was a former Army Major and he was fantastic to work with because he knew how we operated.”

ACT RFS crew member Ian

Driver delivers

Reid was one of a dozen volunteer fire-fighters picked up on Canberra’s north side and transported to an SES station on the southern side of the capital by Pte Smith on February 2.

Mr Reid said providing something as simple as transport to and from the fires went a long way in reducing fatigue to crews.

“I want to offer a big ‘thank you’ to the ADF for their logistic support,” Mr Reid said.

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February 20, 2020 Operation Bushfire Assistdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 9

Lt Max Logan

ARMY personnel deployed in sup-port of the bushfire relief effort in Victoria have achieved a record for the most hours flown in a month by the Australian CH-47 Chinook fleet.

After arriving at RAAF Base East Sale in support of Operation Bushfire Assist, Task Unit Chinook, of 5 Avn Regt, flew numerous sorties in Victoria and South Australia, conducting evac-uations and specialist logistics tasks.

Maintenance Troop Commander for C Sqn Capt Amy Power said hit-ting the 400-hour mark after a month was testament to her team’s high-tem-po deployment.

“The team have found the experi-ence really worthwhile. We want to help in these situations so coming down here has been a great way to support the Australian community and of course support the Victorian Government in their efforts to help with the bushfires,” Capt Power said.

“During our deployment to Operation Bushfire Assist, we con-ducted a lot of evacuations and pro-vided specialist logistics support in the form of moving people and equipment.

“We took hay, generators and fuel to farmers, as well as assisted the Red Cross to transport their supplies.

“It’s what the Chinook is good at – moving heavy things around different places.

“We’ve done a lot of flying and the maintenance workforce have been working extremely hard to make sure the aircraft is serviceable and ready to go when required.”

Task Unit Chinook will keep up the tempo now that it has returned to home base in Townsville by maintain-ing readiness for the high-risk weather season.

“We’ll get some services in and get the aircraft ready so we can go again if we need to,” Capt Power said.

One member of the team who

was crucial to the success of Task Unit Chinook was C Sqn Avionics Technician Cpl Eamon Fuery.

“My job is to fix and diagnose the electrical systems on board the Chinook,” Cpl Fuery said.

Cpl Fuery was contacted by his unit and tasked to the operation on New Year’s Eve.

“When we first arrived we worked 12-hour shifts as the aircraft con-ducted multiple taskings in and out of

Bairnsdale. It was great conducting the maintenance in support of a defined task like Operation Bushfire Assist,” Cpl Fuery said.

“Working on Chinooks is fantastic. It would be difficult to move me on to

a different airframe, as I love working on these.

“I was proud to be a part of the record flight hours and contribute to the maintenance and keeping the air-craft in the air.”

Clocking up the hours

Cpl Eamon Fuery, right, and Cfn Alexander Skehan conduct a before-flight inspection on a Chinook during Operation Bushfire Assist. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

Sqn-Ldr Gavin Briggs

SINCE the beginning of the bush-fire crisis, Victoria’s State Control Centre (SCC) has played a pivotal role in coordinating the multi-agen-cy response to assist affected local communities.

Sgt Ryan Hodgson, of 4CSSB, is normally based at Maygar Barracks in Broadmeadows, but during Operation Bushfire Assist he worked tirelessly out of the SCC in an aviation control role with Combined Agency Operations Group (CAOG).

“I’ve helped assist 479 air mis-sions across the different contribut-ing nations, with different aircraft from Navy, Army and Air Force, both rotary and fixed wing,” Sgt Hodgson said.

He said he was very proud of the mission.

“There are no known starving cattle on isolated farms anywhere in Victoria,” Sgt Hodgson said.

“The ADF and the various agen-cies in the SCC worked really well together. We have all shared a com-mon purpose and that has been on display by the way we have devel-oped a really positive and strong working relationship.

“It was a tough situation, but with the combined agency efforts we achieved a good result. Well done to the wider team.”

Sgt Hodgson’s role included coordinating with a host of aviation assets such as the ADF, Victorian Police, the Country Fire Authority and the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

In recognition of his efforts, senior ADF personnel and state agency representatives gathered in the SCC on his last day on February 4 to bid him farewell.

Deputy commissioner for Emergency Management Victoria Chris Stephenson expressed his thanks on behalf of everyone.

“Ryan worked extremely well in the SCC and with the CAOG team, delivering significant effects in aviation control. From the begin-ning, he worked seamlessly with all the agencies and our deployed ele-ments,” Mr Stephenson said.

Also working in the SCC as the senior Defence liaison officer was Col Michelle Campbell, of HQ 2 Div. She commended Sgt Hodgson’s sustained efforts.

“He worked really well integrat-ing the aviation assets from multi-ple sources and demonstrated more broadly the value of a combined agencies approach,” Col Campbell said.

Vital role

Sgt Ryan Hodgson, of 4CSSB, right, is farewelled and thanked by Deputy commissioner Emergency Management Victoria Chris Stephenson. Photo: Pte Michael Currie

ADF ARRTS ProgramIt’s on again! Applications are now open for ADF ARRTS Program 20.1, which will run 17 May -13 June 2020 at the University of Canberra, in a rank and uniform free environment.

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

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

Applications close 13 April 2020

For an application, email ADF.ARRTS@defence.gov.au or visit www.defence.gov.au/jcg/arrts

News10

Capt Carla Armanti

MOVING more than 400 tonnes of 1 Bde vehicles from Adelaide to Darwin on 22 rail wagons demon-strated the benefits of using the exist-ing rail network to transport military equipment.

The Royal Australian Corps of Transport and project officers from the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) coordi-nated the 2970km journey of updated medium-heavy capability vehicles in December.

The load contained artillery guns, the M113AS4 and, for the first time, the Land 121 MHC fleet, including the 22-tonne, four-axle Rheinmetall MAN HX77 vehicle.

1 Bde transport planner Maj Alex Brent said the combined effort “showcased our ability to work with existing transport infrastructure and civilian rail operator Genesee and Wyoming Australia to expand the way we move the new fleet across the world’s biggest island”.

“Using the rail corridor meant we could reduce the number of trucks on the road, rest our drivers, extend the life of the capability and reduce maintenance,” Maj Brent said.

Months of planning led up to the move with the most obvious chal-lenges being loading the heavy equip-ment and load security.

“This rail move was a big beast,” Maj Brent said.

Conquering the big beastA Rheinmetall MAN HX77 heavy integrated load handling system is lifted on to a rail wagon for the trip from Adelaide to Darwin.Photo: Cpl Shane Kelly

“There were new considerations and extended timelines compared to equipment we have loaded in previous moves.

“The team came together with CASG project officers to check that our processes were efficient and safe, that the drivers worked hard to get the cargo to the railhead on time and that

the terminal operators loading and lashing the equipment with the move-ments personnel were finalising the background logistics and coordination to make this possible.”

Lt Caleb Hammond and his team of six terminal operators found out just how challenging loading the Land 121 fleet could be.

“The weight and size of the vehicles meant we had to first drive each truck on to a flatbed before it was then lifted on to the carriage,” Lt Hammond said.

“We knew we would have to estab-lish a new way to secure the vehicles to the train.

“We put our heads together with

CASG engineers and came away with a good outcome.

“We have now established a process for rail transport in the future.”

The next vehicle to be put to the rail move test this year will be the 45 M heavy recovery vehicle, with a total weight of up to 50 tonnes.

Pte Nicole Dorrett

SPENDING their working days with a four-legged friend was just one of the opportunities the ADF’s future leaders were exposed to during a Socomd demonstration at Majura Training Area in Canberra late last year.

Taking time out from training, 2 Cdo Regt’s TAG-E put on a counter-terrorism display, where ADFA and RMC-D cadets engaged with commandos and Navy divers and saw some of their kit.

They worked with vehicles, military working dogs and a wide range of weapons, including a deployable resuscitation set-up.

L t H e l e n a S l a a t s s a i d t h e professionalism and capability of the TAG-E team was a real eye opener.

“It was such a good experience to see all the different capabilities they have,” Lt Slaats said.

“Speaking to them opened my eyes on how achievable the selection process is. It’s definitely something I’d like to be a part of in the future.”

OC TAG-E Maj C said the display exposed the cadets and staff from ADFA and RMC to a range of counter-terrorism equipment.

“We put this on so the cadets could have a look at some of our equipment, talk to our soldiers and sailors about the opportunities available to them and experience the ADF’s counter-terrorism capability,” Maj C said.

“Events like this are an investment because one day some of these people may seek to serve as qualified special forces or support staff in the command.”

Self-confessed “dog person” Lt Jesse Jones said the highlight of the day was seeing a special operations military working dog in action.

“Seeing how well-trained and switched-on the dogs are, but at the same time how they could switch off on command and just be normal dogs was really quite amazing,” Lt Jones said.

“There are a lot of hurdles to jump over before I would consider the special forces officer stream, but it’s certainly something I’m looking at.”

Opportunities on offer in special ops

Lt Cassandra Thorburn takes aim with a Heckler & Koch MP5 sub-machine gun during a counter-terrorism demonstration at Majura training area.

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Military trials being carried out in NZ, Germany, France, Switzerland, Sweden and South Africa.

February 20, 2020 Newsdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 11

Capt Carla Armenti

FRIENDS and family gathered at Darwin’s Robertson Barracks on February 7 to fare-well more than 200 ADF personnel heading overseas to relieve those serving on opera-tions in Afghanistan, Iraq and the broader Middle East region.

Many of the personnel have been drawn from 1 Bde to provide specialist commu-nications, logistics and force protection support.

Personnel will deploy as part of joint and adaptive teams with either Theatre Communications Group – 10 (TCG-X), Force Support Element – 12, or Force Protection Element – 13.

Parade Reviewing Officer and Commander 1 Bde Brig Ash Collingburn said it was a pleasure to see such a good turn out from the community.

“We could not do what we do without such tremendous support from the home-front and the Australian people,” Brig Collingburn said.

“I know this support does not come without personal sacrifice and I am extremely grateful to the friends, family and community who have taken the time to

join us in sending off these young men and women.”

The deploying members have just com-pleted three months of challenging mission-specific training throughout the Top End’s wet season to ensure a smooth transition into their various duties overseas.

Brig Collingburn said for 1 Bde sol-diers, this training had built on their “ready-ing” training received last year as part of certifying to become Army’s ready brigade.

“Our personnel are always ready to do the job asked of them, as recently seen with our tremendous support to the bushfires over the past few months,” he said.

“Their training has provided them with the technical skills, resilience and adap-tive mindsets required to succeed in their respective roles – whatever that may be.”

After six years in the Army, LCpl Daniel Murphy said he was excited to deploy to the Middle East as part of the TCG-X team.

“This will be my first deployment so it is special to have my family and my partner here to farewell me,” LCpl Murphy said.

“We’ve completed all the training and now I’m keen to get over there and get to work.”

Commander 1 Bde Brig Ash Collingburn inspects the combined farewell parade conducted at Robertson Barracks, Darwin. Photo: PO Peter Thompson

Community of support

New missilesARMY and the wider ADF will purchase the Rafael Spike LR2 missile system under the Lethality System project. It will contribute to Army maintaining a competitive edge against evolving threats, by ensuring they are equipped with a modern and credible dismounted anti-armour guided missile system. The alignment with the combat recon-naissance vehicle will enable delivery of improved operational effects for the ADF in sustainment, training and maintenance.

Troops homeMORE than 100 Australian troops will return home to Australia from Afghanistan as their roles with Command Staff Academy and Sergeant Majors’ Academy have ended. Australia’s support to the Afghan Air Force shifted from providing tactical advice to the delivery of strategic advice. Australia will contin-ue to contribute personnel to Operation Highroad, ADF’s commitment to the NATO-led train, advise and assist Resolute Support Mission.

Still prohibitedTHE use/and or possession of canna-bis by ADF personnel is still prohibited despite recent ACT law changes. A positive result under the Prohibited Substance Testing Program will mean a notice to show cause as to why the member’s service in the ADF should not be terminated. ACT legislation allows residents to possess a quantity of cannabis and a number of plants in their home. Presence of these in a ser-vice residence, rent allowance property, and potentially a non-rental allowance property, may make the ADF member liable for prosecution under the DFDA. Personnel requiring more information should approach their chain of com-mand or Service Prohibited Substance Testing Program coordinators.

IN BRIEFGet in earlyADF members tasked to ceremonial duties for Anzac Day must have all requests for uniforms and medal mounting submitted to their clothing store no later than February 28. The period prior to Anzac Day is a time of high demand for services provided by the clothing stores. JLC Clothing Stores operated by Broadspectrum (Australia) Pty Ltd provide made-to-measure/made-to-fit uniform and medal mount-ing services to ADF members.

Health advicePERSONNEL are advised to be aware of the coronavirus situation. Symptoms are similar to other respiratory viruses and can include fever, cough, sore throat, headache and/or shortness of breath. If you have returned from China and become unwell with res-piratory symptoms, seek medical attention. Anyone planning travel to China should check the latest advice on Smartraveller. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe lung infections. Joint Health Command advise further information can be found at health.gov.au/health-topics/novel- coronavirus-2019-ncov

Mardi GrasPERSONNEL have the opportunity to march in the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade on February 29. One-hundred-and-sixty places are available for ADF and Defence APS personnel in the contingent. Uniforms must only be worn during the parade. Registration will be $20 per person, which covers light refreshments pre- and post-event. No central funding is available for travel to attend and personnel must meet costs. For further information contact the Diversity Directorate at dpg.diversity-events@defence.gov.au

SURVEYING threats ashore, reconnaissance soldiers of 2RAR (Amphib) feed information back to embarked forces, spearhead-

ing Defence’s amphibious operations.Specialising in reconnaissance and

small-boat platoons, 2RAR arrive days ahead of the maritime force to prepare beach landing sites and underwater lanes, conduct surveillance and enable battles-pace shaping.

CO 2RAR Lt-Col Judd Finger said the unit forms Army’s component of, and commands, ADF’s Joint Pre-Landing Force.

They are reinforced by clearance divers, geospatial survey teams, military working dogs, signallers and unmanned aerial vehicles.

“We’re shaping the battlespace through the coordination of joint effects and have learnt a lot from the joint force and our coalition partners, so we can con-tinue to improve and evolve our capabil-ity,” Lt-Col Finger said.

The 300-strong battalion, which calls HMAS Canberra and Adelaide its second homes, is prepared to provide Army with an infantry battle group if required.

Personnel focus on amphibious and force-level reconnaissance, coalition interoperability and manned-unmanned teaming.

“We are always focused on challeng-ing dogma and learning best practice in

order to provide scalable, tailored and lethal options to Australia’s amphibious force,” Lt-Col Finger said.

Based at Lavarack Barracks, 2RAR’s support soldiers, including storeman Cpl Ben Laird, are proficient beyond their base trades.

“We get to deal with the infantry side of things more. We fire Mag 58s, 66mm rockets, GLAs and get coded on the 40M, HX77 and G-Wagon. We also have to do an annual swim test and helicopter under-water escape training,” Cpl Laird said.

“It’s a positive culture and everyone has the same level of motivation. We all do the best we can.

“It’s a high-morale environment where you always push for excellence because you know everyone else in the unit is doing their best too.”

The ethos of 2RAR fuels the battalion through its high-tempo battle-rhythm, as its two Pre-Landing Force companies cycle between ready and readying.

The battalion also aims to train each infanteer in reconnaissance by 2021, while fulfilling its commitments to the Joint Warfare Series exercises and various operational and international engagements.

Last year 2RAR deployed force elements to the Middle East, Afghani-stan, Operations Augury – Philippines, Townsville Flood Assist, and Render Safe in Solomon Islands, Tonga and Fiji.

This year it will support exercises RimPac in Hawaii and Croix Du Sud in New Caledonia.

Small-craft operator Pte Darryn Breugem said the battalion had become more specialised during his five years at 2RAR.

“A lot of the training we do is differ-ent to other RARs, such as in amphibi-ous reconnaissance and our small-boat capability,” Pte Breugem said.

“During APEC 2018 we were attached to a clearance diver team, inserting them into certain ports to make sure jetties and cruise ships were free of any explosives. We helped the divers survey the sea floor, and wherever they needed to go we’d help get them there.”

His small-boat skills came in handy getting around Townsville’s flooded streets in 2019, evacuating more than 400 civilians, including at night.

“There were white-water rapids on some of the streets and it was fairly shallow so we were getting sucked towards storm drains and the water running back to the river and out to sea,” Pte Breugem said.

“Our guys persisted to get to everyone they needed to evacuate and we all got out fine in the end, leaving no one behind.

“We still had a sense of fear, but with the training we get, we knew what we were doing and that gave us confidence.”

Reconnaissance and surveillance are shaping the battlespace for 2RAR soldiers, Cpl Julia Whitwell reports.

February 20, 2020 Centrepiecedefence.gov.au/news/armynews12 13

FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH

Soldiers take part in an early morning beach insertion.

Reconnaissance soldiers of 2RAR advance up a beachfront during a patrol

insertion at the Cowley Beach Training Area, North Queensland.

Photos: Cpl Tristan Kennedy

Soldiers ride in Zodiac RHIBs during a patrol.

Pte Arlen Treston covers the beach front with his F89 Minimi during a reconnaissance patrol extraction.

Forward observer Capt Chris Moroney checks his map during a raid at the Tully Jungle Training Area, North Queensland.

Personnel of 2RAR clear a village during a raid at the Tully Jungle Training Area.

Any time, any space

Features14

EXERCISE Mars Mix has demonstrated the ability of 2 Cdo Regt’s Tacti-cal Assault Group – East

(TAG-E) to respond to a number of different scenarios.

The exercise, completed late last year, tested core counter-terrorism skills in complex urban and maritime environments,

with insertion methods including RHIBs, helicopter and free-fall parachute.

It was supported by Navy’s MV Sycamore and Air Force air-craft including a P-8 Poseidon and two EA-18G Growlers, which pro-vided electronic warfare effects.

Mars Mix was the latest in TAG’s continuation training,

which ensures they are ready to respond to incidents in support of state or territory police.

TAG-E comprises of a com-mando company with an embed-ded platoon of Navy clearance divers, supported by a troop of engineers from the Special Operations Engineer Regiment, as well as other trade specialists.

Exercise Mars Mix was a show of strength and tactical response, writes Cpl Sebastian Beurich.

Army commandos and Navy clearance divers, of 2 Cdo Regt, take part in maritime counter-terrorism training for Exercise Mars Mix in Jervis Bay, NSW. Photos: AB Ryan McKenzie

Supporting Australia’s Reservists and their Employers

Do you or your employer receive Employer Support Payment Scheme (ESPS) payments?

The way to lodge an ESPS claim online is changing

By March 2020, AUSkey and myGov will be replaced by myGovID

To lodge a claim Employers of Reservists and self-employed Reservists will need to begin transitioning from AUSKey to myGovID now

Further information can be sought at www.abr.gov.au/mynewkey

February 20, 2020 Newsdefence.gov.au/news/armynews 15

Capt Carla Armenti

TWENTY years after the battalion came under one banner, 1 Int Bn cel-ebrated the anniversary with a parade at Gallipoli Barracks on January 17.

CO 1 Int Bn Lt-Col Paul Baker said the milestone marked 20 years of uninterrupted deployments and “keeping others from danger”.

“It was humbling to be involved in such an occasion as we welcomed back a host of former unit members and their families,” Lt-Col Baker said

“It was our way of recognising the achievements of those who shaped the unit over the years.”

XO Maj Anita Groves said the most obvious change to the unit was its size.

“People who came to observe were impressed with the number of

people on parade compared with the beginnings of the battalion,” Maj Groves said.

“We would like to thank current and former members of the Australian Intelligence Corps Association and the Royal Australian Survey Corps Association who attended and sup-ported the parade, along with the official guests.”

The weather held off and the unit’s RSM, WO1 Marcel Ouwinga, said visiting dignitaries from Australia and overseas enjoyed the parade.

“It was a proud moment for the unit, something that will be remem-bered for quite some time,” WO1 Ouwinga said.

As part of the ceremony, Lt-Col Ben Alward handed over command of the unit to Lt-Col Baker.

A bigger battalion on show

Lt-Col Ben Alward, left, hands over command of 1 Int Bn to Lt-Col Paul Baker during the battalion’s 20th anniversary parade at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera; and, above right, Reviewing Officer Head Military Strategic Plans Maj-Gen Gavan Reynolds and Commander 6 Bde Designate Brig Mark Ascough inspect 1 Int Bn during the parade. Photos: Sgt Anita Gill

LS Kylie Jagiello

THE initial nerves have eased for Pte John Macarthur VIII in the few weeks since he arrived at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, in late January.

Otherwise known as Stan the Ram, 8/9RAR’s new mascot is getting used to his new accom-modation and handler Pte Lenie Spindler is trying to make him more comfortable.

“He has come from the farm and is a little bit skittish around people at the moment,” Pte Spindler said.

“Originally, you couldn’t get near him but now I can take him out for a walk.”

Pte Spindler grew up in country Queensland helping with animals on his uncle’s farm.

“Being Pte Stan’s handler gives me a bit of a feel for home,” he said.

8/9RAR RSM WO1 Michael Carroll said the unit had housed a mascot in various forms since 1970, with the custom originating from 9RAR.

“Stan is great for the soldiers’ morale but also for the community to be able to look at and interact with him,” WO1 Carroll said.

“People understand who Stan is and absolutely love him.”

Life in the barracks is nothing to bleat about

Looking good isn’t the only con-cern for Pte Stan. WO1 Carroll said temperament and ease of manage-ment were also important.

He said Pte Stan was coming along in “leaps and bounds” in his training and would be officially wel-

comed to the unit soon. With a colourful military career behind him, previous mascot Cpl John “Stan the Ram” Macarthur VII retired in December and is enjoy-ing the comforts of the Wilgunya Merino Stud farm.

Pte John ‘Stan the Ram’ Macarthur VIII gets comfortable in his surrounds with handler Pte Lenie Spindler. Photo: Lt-Col Steven Dickie

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CAPT Julian Thompson operates the x-ray capa-bility for coalition forces at the Taji Medical Treat-

ment Facility, but once the scrubs come off he takes to canvas and paints the “deployment life”.

The Army radiographer is deployed with the combined Australian and New Zealand TGT-10 at the Taji Military Complex (TMC). This is his second deployment to Iraq after deploying with TGT-4.

“I spent 10 years as a profes-sional artist before joining the military,” Capt Thompson said.

“I am an abstract and land-scape painter, but the military can provide particularly compelling imagery, which is profoundly symbolic and very exciting to paint.”

Capt Thompson also has a

master’s degree in geography, which he finds enables him to fuse science and nature in his works.

“Shortly after entering service I realised soldiers were clothed in the landscape and the idea that we become part of it became intellec-tually interesting and a recurring theme in my work,” he said.

“Lines of soldiers walking into the environment has become a go-to image of mine, but I’ve also painted a performance of the New Zealand haka, which greeted the CDF while I was deployed with TGT-4.

“I’m now painting a three-piece canvas detailing the Taji environment and the history forged between Australian and New Zealand Defence Force members at TMC.”

Capt Thompson takes pride in having direct contact with his

viewing audience when he paints. “There is a lot of incidental con-tact with the audience and they are able to relate in a very immediate way,” he said.

He also feels responsible to detail what he sees.

“While I’m not acting in an official war artist’s capacity, I am in a privileged position in that I’ve had a career as a civilian artist and I’m a serving member,” Capt Thompson said.

“It’s important to create artworks that reflect our deploy-ments. They’re historical events and I feel an obligation to respond artistically to what I see.”

Capt Thompson will be show-ing his work at the New Zealand National Army Museum in August. He also displays works at the Australian War Memorial.

Leaving an impression

Capt Julian Thompson takes inspiration from his environment while

deployed at the Taji Military Complex, Iraq.

Photo: US COMCAM SPC Caroline Schofer

Radiologist Capt Julian Thompson stands before an ambulance variant of a Protected Mobility Vehicle at the Taji Military Complex, Iraq. Photo: Capt Roger Brennan

Capt Roger Brennan talks to a radiologist about how art and imagery are a big part of his life.

LS Kieren Whiteley

THE second Army Day of Cyber will boost soldiers’ awareness of cyber threats.

The initiative will be held across Australia between February 17 and March 13.

It aims to increase awareness of cyber threats posed to Army personnel in and out of the workplace and will showcase real incidents and live dem-onstrations, according to Maj Matthew Best, of AHQ Cyber.

“The threat is real and with our interconnecting digital world it’s only going to grow,” Maj Best said.

“We need to better equip ourselves to defend against these attacks.”

Maj Best, a signals officer develop-ing Army’s cyber defences, believed awareness of the threats had increased, but there was no place for complacen-cy when it came to defending against cyber attacks.

“Last time the audience provided us with an eight-digit password that we cracked in a few minutes – that really hit the message home,” he said

Maj Best said even simple actions made it much harder for potential attackers.

Presentations will be provided by staff across Army, supported by soldiers from 138 Sig Sqn, who will provide live demonstrations to highlight cyber vulnerabilities.

Apart from providing information about cyber security and its implica-tions, the Army Day of Cyber aims to improve personal security.

“We don’t want people to leave scared about cyber,” Maj Best said.

“If soldiers are aware of the risks and employ the measures we suggest to protect themselves, the chances of being affected are very low.

“Everyone is a potential target and we need to be cyber ready.”

Be cyber ready

Photo: LS Kylie Jagiello

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Unit Plaques & Trophies

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MEDALS lost or damaged in the fires across Australia may be replaced under the Defence Honours and Awards Replacement Medal Policy.

Current and former ADF personnel are entitled to one replacement set of medals.

Holders of a deceased family member’s medals are also entitled to receive one replacement set, provided replacements have

not already been issued. Replacement medals cannot be issued if any compensation for their loss or damage has already been received via insurance.

To apply for replacement medals, visit defence.gov.au/medals and complete the Defence Medals Online Application Form, selecting Replacement Medals as the application type.

Replacing a loss

DEFENCE has launched a new publication aimed at supporting discussion on defence and strategic concerns facing the ADF and our region.

The Australian Journal of Defence and Strategic Studies (AJDSS) is designed to encourage sharing of innovative and thought-provoking ideas, original analysis and research.

CDF Gen Angus Campbell welcomed the new publication, which will build on the previous Australian Defence Force Journal.

“Defence is an integrated organisation of both ADF and APS professionals and this needs to be reflected in how we deliver the mission given to us in serving the national interest,” Gen Campbell said.

“To do this, it is essential we stimulate and enhance our intellectual engagement with a range of complex problems and

consider alternative approaches. “Generations of leaders have honed their intellect through reading, writing and evaluating the various aspects of our profession.”

Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty said that he hoped the journal would provide a platform to stimulate critical thinking around issues relevant to Australia’s defence.

Published biannually, AJDSS is committed to high-quality, peer-reviewed research that contributes to national, regional and global defence and national security dis-cussions.

Submissions are welcome to the AJDSS on future and contemporary concerns relevant to the defence and strategic outlook of Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. The journal and submission guidelines can be found at defence.gov.au/adc/publications/AJDSS

Journal launch

AN INDEPENDENT commission has been created to tackle the issue of ADF and veteran suicides.

The National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention will have enduring power, scope and resources to investigate suicides and related issues as they arise.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the independent Commissioner would have the power to compel wit-nesses to give evidence.

“This is about being forever vigilant for the care and wellbeing of our veterans,” Mr Morrison said.

An initial investment of $40 million will support the Commissioner’s work with further expansion for extra resources. The Government will establish an immediate independent review of historical veteran suicide cases, focusing on the impact of military service and veterans’ post-service experience.

The Minister for Veterans and Minister for Defence Personnel, Darren Chester, said the Commissioner would also deliver an Annual Veteran and Defence Suicide Death Report.

“This will be a transparent report directly to the Parliament annually on suicides within the Defence and veteran community, including an update on the imple-mentation and evaluation of measures to reduce suicide risk factors,” he said.

An interim report will be delivered within 12 months, when families will be able to participate in the process.

Mental health support for ADF personnel is available from:  Defence psych teams ADF medical centres Member’s chain of command Chaplains  All-hours Support Line – 1800 628 036  1800 IMSICK www.openarms.gov.au

Where to seek help

AFTER an annual review, new rates for ADF accom-modation assistance and contributions took effect on February 6 and will be reflected in members’ pay from February 20.

Changes to service residence and rent allowance contributions and charges have been adjusted in line with the national rental market. Other contribu-tions and allowances have been adjusted using the Consumer Price Index and national average meal costs.

Member contributions for living-in accommoda-tion have increased by 0.4 per cent across the five levels of accommodation and for all ranks. For casual meals, breakfast contributions have increased by 50 cents to $5.50 while the lunch and dinner rates remain at $8 and $7 respectively. The discounted fortnightly meal charge will increase by $5 to $205.

Information taken from Defgram 2019/631 and Signal 200413Z DEC 2019. Questions about the review of rates should be directed to your chain of command, or see the Pay and Conditions Manual at https://www.defence.gov.au/PayAndConditions/

Ongoing eye on veteran suicides

Review of rates

Personnel18

Cpl Julia Whitwell

ARMY has won the 2019 Defence Blood Challenge for the 9th con-secutive year, making 3340 dona-tions – the highest number among the services.

Defence personnel and indus-try were challenged to make as many whole blood, platelet and plasma donations as possible from September 1 to December 8 last year, surpassing their goal of 9000 donations.

The results far exceeded expec-tations with the final tally of 10,094 donations saving up to 30,000 lives.

DCA Maj-Gen Anthony Rawlins said he was proud to see Army’s community spirit demonstrated throughout the challenge.

“It’s a fantastic achievement to see that Army donations in the

2019 challenge will make a positive impact to so many lives,” Maj-Gen Rawlins said.

“I would like to thank our people for pulling together to help our community in need of blood products.”

Among those who donated for Army, 201 were rolling up their sleeves for the first time, while regular donors were able to make up to eight donations throughout the challenge.

Navy won the other four award categories: donations per capita, highest number of new donors, highest year-on-year growth and highest plasma donations per capita – a new category for 2019.

Maj-Gen Rawlins said he believed Army could aim higher for 2020.

“Almost 12 per cent of Army

members donated in 2019, which means there’s a great deal of untapped potential within our force. As an Army for the community, there is always more we can do,” he said.

“In 2020, whether the donation will be your first or your 25th, your donation will make a life-changing difference to our community.

“So let’s come together this year, in numbers and determination, and roll up our sleeves to serve our community as well as winning this year’s challenge.”

The Defence Blood Challenge started in 2009 and is the long-est-running blood challenge in Australia.

For information on how to donate blood, plasma or platelets, visit lifeblood.com.au

Top spot

Legacy bears on display during the launch of the 2019 Defence Blood Challenge in Canberra. Photo: Cpl Julia Whitwell

SCdt Wilson Purbrick speaks with Brig Leigh Wilton, Maj (now Lt-Col) Alisa Wickham and

Billy the Blood Drop while donating plasma at the Civic Plasma Donor Centre in Canberra.

Photo: Sgt Max Bree

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Part 1: Saturday 22 February 2020

February 20, 2020 Peopledefence.gov.au/news/armynews 19

Army Band musician LCpl Paul Jankovic plays the double bass during a performance for students at the Kangaroo Island Children’s Services – Kingscote school. Photo: Cpl Oliver Carter

WO2 Ryan Barber with his wife Emma and daughter Evie at the DCO Welcome to the Top End Expo, held in Darwin, NT. Photo: PO Peter Thompson

Lt Catherine Sellers, of 5/6RVR, played a vital part in Army’s ability to support Operation Bushfire Assist, working as a liaison officer at the Incident Control Centre in Tallangatta, Victoria. Photo: Tpr Jonathan Goedhart

Environmental Health Officer of 2GHB Lt Sharyn Shephard conducts food assessments at the staging area on Kangaroo Island before the Australia Day barbecue.

Watch video at: youtube.com/watch?v=bAJr2kxE394

Pte Renee Breeze, of 9FSB, left, Pte Philip Hunter, of 10FSB, and Maj Kendall Crocker, veterinarian with 17 Bde, care for a koala rescued from the fires in the Cooma region of NSW.

People20

C Sqn maintenance troop commander Capt Amy Power stands in front of a 5 Avn Regt Chinook during Operation Bushfire Assist. Photo: LS Kieren Whiteley

Cpl Iresha Marshall, left, Sgt Scott Jones and Pte Jack Rickets prepare lunch for soldiers deployed to Kangaroo Island for Operation Bushfire Assist. Photo: LCpl Brodie Cross

Cpl Dan Cochrane, of 176 AD Sqn, shows Seth and Zac, from Annangrove, NSW, the cabin of a G-Wagon during an Australia Day event held by the Hawkesbury City Council at Governor Phillip Park, Windsor. Photo: Cpl Dan Pinhorn

Chap Robert Packer, right, with his Snowy Mountains shepherd’s crook made by woodworker Ian Post from Corryong, Victoria. Photo: Pte Stuart Rayner

1. Which racer holds the record for the most Grand Prix wins?

2. What year was the first model of the iPhone released?

3. About how many taste buds does the average human tongue have?

4. How many films did Sean Connery play James Bond in? a. six; b. seven; or c. eight

5. What country won the first FIFA World Cup in 1930?

6. Which country produces the most coffee in the world?

7. What or who is the Ford Mustang named after?

8. What does “HTTP” stand for?

9. How many oxygen atoms does ozone have?

10. What was the name of the rock band formed by Jimmy Page?

Answers

1. Michael Schumacher. 2. 2007. 3. 10,000. 4. b. Seven. 5. Uruguay. 6. Brazil. 7. A fighter plane from WWII. 8. HyperText Transfer Protocol. 9. Three. 10. Led Zeppelin.

Quick-fire questions What or who is the Ford Mustang named after (Q7)? Photo: Sam Warren on Unsplash

Sportdefence.gov.au/news/armynewsFebruary 20, 2020 21

Maj Stuart Wood

A SPORTING partnership between veter-ans and serving personnel that began with an inclusive competition late last year has continued to strengthen in Queensland’s Darling Downs.

The re la t ionsh ip began when 7 Sig Reg teamed up with Veteran Adaptive Sports – Toowoomba to bring the serving and veteran sporting communi-ties together at the unit level through the ADF’s Adaptive Sports Program.

The regiment hosted an event at Borneo Barracks, Cabarlah, during which RASigs personnel from across Australia integrated with wounded, injured and ill veterans from all backgrounds into small teams, challenging each other in team-based adaptive sports including archery, indoor rowing and sitting volleyball.

The event, held during RASigs Corps Week, was the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship between the regi-ment and the veteran sporting community that will play a key part in the training program for participants in the Invictus Games.

Former CO 7 Sig Regt Lt-Col Mick Mudie said the relationship was also help-ing to maintain links between current and former members.

“It proves that the mateship and esprit de corps ties that bind us while we’re serving can continue after we’ve hung up the uniform, which is something all of us, sooner or later, will do,” he said.

Lt-Col Mudie said Stephen and Wendy Osborne from Veteran Adaptive Sports – Toowoomba had been exceptional in promoting the program and their organ-isation now had access to the Borneo Barracks gym and pool precincts as well as storage and management support for equipment.

“It’s a truly inclusive partnership between veterans and serving personnel and a fantastic way to maintain and grow the connections and networks that are vital to the long-term mental health and wellbeing of everyone that serves,” Lt-Col Mudie said.

RASigs Corps Week in November this year will include more adaptive sports, with participating units accepting the challenge to send teams ready to compete against, and with, veterans on a level play-ing field.

For more information on the ADF Adaptive Sports Program, go to defence.gov.au/jcg/ADF_Sport/ADFASP/ For information on Veteran Adaptive Sports – Toowoomba, see facebook.com/Veteran.Adaptive.Sport.Toowoomba/

LS Kylie Jagiello

ARMY’S Sgt Samuel Wilson is now captain and assistant coach of the ADF men’s national soft-ball side after co-captaining the Queensland team to victory in the Defence National Softball Championships.

Sgt Wilson was one of eight men and 10 women from Army selected in their respective national squads after the cham-pionships in Canberra in early December.

LCpl Brett Tyler was selected as vice-captain of the men’s team and Capt Tarni Preston was named vice-captain of the women’s team.

More than 100 personnel played in the championships, which was the best turn-out since 1997 and included a record num-ber of rookie players.

Four women’s and five men’s teams represented their states with players vying for selection in the national side.

The Queensland men beat the

Northern Territory 18-7 in the grand final, after the “mercy rule” was invoked in the fourth innings.

Sgt Wilson said the competi-tion for positions on the ladder was close.

“All rookies were amazing; starting out with very little skill and by the end of the week not one player looked out of place on the diamond,” Sgt Wilson said.

“After playing for 30 years it really reminded me why I play and why it is so important that we do not limit ADF sports to people who have played but keep it open for everyone to have a go.”

NSW won the women’s final, beating Queensland 15-6 in the sixth innings.

LACW Samantha Logovik was not only named rookie of the tournament but showed enough raw talent to be selected in the national squad.

The ADF national men’s and women’s squads will compete in the Queensland state champion-ships later this year.

Army players selected in the ADF national softball teams: Men: Sgt Samuel Wilson (captain/assistant coach), LCpl Brett Tyler (vice-captain), Cpl Casey Fenn, Cpl Paul Nealson, Cpl Mark Walters, LCpl Stephen Bertucci, Tpr Landon Hall, Cfn Michael Robinson Women: Capt Tarni Preston (vice-captain), Capt Aymee Preston, WO1 Virginia Morris, LCpl Belinda Anderson, Cpl Katrina Holmes, Cpl Jessica McCann, Sig Rebekah Bell, Pte Bianca Abrahms, Pte Montana Dove, Pte Jessica Sherwood

Diamond dazzlers

Mutual benefits in shared program

Batters up for national representation

Veterans John Burrett and Braedon Griffiths line up targets during the RASigs Corps Week event at Borneo Barracks.

Queensland’s Pte Nicholas Stainer slides into third base under the glove of the Northern Territory’s Cpl Mark Walters during the men’s grand final of the Defence National Softball Championships in Canberra.Photo: Sub-Leut Samantha Brandstater

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Cpl Veronica O’Hara

ADF Water Polo (ADFWP) adapted its week-long interservice carnival at its home in Randwick Barracks, Sydney, in December to accommodate a host of new and developing players.

Mixed-service teams were formed from the 48 personnel and split into two tiers of skill level.

ADFWP vice-president, player and devel-opment coach Capt Jemma Osmand said it was the first time the carnival had been struc-tured that way.

“It’s the most players I have seen in at least a decade,” Capt Osmand said.

“We knew we were getting a lot of new or developing players so we grouped them into mixed teams of seniors and juniors, and it was good interaction for the men and women.”

Capt Osmand, who has played the sport for 17 years and 11 of those with Defence, said the carnival had been held in different locations in the past, “but we decided it was fitting to hold it at home and we’ll continue this tradition”.

“The ADFWP committee and Randwick Barracks staff did an amazing job to improve the facilities and bring it up to Olympic standards,” she said.

“The Australian water polo team uses

it for training sometimes and it’s an ideal location – close to a major airport, which is convenient for our players and when our international counterparts attend.”

Cfn Timothy Bain was part of the team that won the seniors round.

He mainly played goal keeper, because his height gives him good reach, but he was also keen to play out in the field when he could.

“I felt pretty tired by the end but it was a good win,” he said. “It’s a good sport to play. You get worn out but after an hour or so you’re not feeling so wrecked.”

A swimmer all his life, Cfn Bain had been keen to get into ADFWP since joining Army a few years ago.

“When I was 13 I got into the sport because a few friends from school were play-ing,” Cfn Bain said.

“Dad used to play and he’d given me the basic skills already, so I picked it up pretty quickly.”

He played in Parramatta as a teenager and with the men’s team for two years before enlisting, joining the Parap club on posting to Darwin.

Inspired by high-level skills coaching dur-ing the tournament from the University of Queensland’s Akos Janosi with the assistance of Cpl Max Martin, Cfn Bain said he was keen to set up exhibition games around the

country and to start a Defence competition in the Northern Territory.

“A lot a people are afraid. You commonly hear ‘oh, I’ll get drowned’, so I’d like to show what the game really is like and give them a better idea.”

Spr Elizabeth Meli was the highest goal scorer in the development side.

“It wasn’t by much, though. I was just try-ing not to drown, as it was my first time,” Spr Meli said.

“Someone I knew who played water polo said if you can swim you can play, so I signed up.

“But there’s a difference between swim-ming laps and this. Half the time you’re either sprinting or keeping afloat so it was a big wake-up call.”

She said it was a tough game but the beginners were well supported.

“I didn’t realise how hard it was. You watch a game and it looks quite easy but they’re pros – they’re all kicking away yet look quite calm on top,” Spr Meli said.

“There were quite a few beginners but we got so much help. One of the players, who was also an organiser, would go over the basics again with us when we needed to.”

For information on ADFWP events, email defencewaterpolo.admin@defence.gov.au or search the Defence intranet.

Mixing it up to meet demand

Cpl Julia Whitwell

CLEANING up on the courts, Army won the women’s and mixed competitions at the ADF Netball Association’s (ADFNA) 2019 interservice tournament in Wagga Wagga in December.

Four days of combined-service rivalry between states resulted in wins for the South Australian women’s, Victorian mixed and NSW men’s sides before the interservice competition began.

Capt Rachel Williams was selected from the South Australian women’s team to play for Army.

“We were all worn out from playing our interstate games then had to muster the energy to train for our interservice games,” Capt Williams said.

“Somehow we came back with extra intensity, knowing the Army reputation was on the line.”

She said the transition into service teams was smooth.

“After playing all week, everyone had already fine-tuned their skills in their own positions, so you felt confident in your new teammates,” she said.

“You knew everyone’s strengths and abilities and you knew they were selected because they had talent.”

The ADFNA tournament involved about 300 personnel from across the ADF.

From that talent pool, a men’s and a mixed ADF representative squad were selected to play at the Australian Men’s and Mixed Netball Association tournament in Adelaide in April, and a women’s squad was selected for a representative tour to be announced later this year.

Cpl Hannah Kennedy

THE Top End’s top shot took home a silver medal from the Australian Clay Target Association ISSF Skeet Commonwealth and National Championships at Lake Macquarie Clay Target Club in January.

Cpl Ricky Crawford, pictured, of 1CSSB, came second in the ISSF Commonwealth event, shooting against Australia’s top 30 skeet shooters, including Olympian and Navy reservist Leut Paul Adams.

Cpl Crawford also won gold in the local C-grade Lake Macquarie event.

“It was a great privilege to represent the

ADF at the titles. The hot, humid conditions really made it feel like the Top End, which was nice,” he said.

Cpl Crawford finished the competition with a score of 107/125 and said he was looking forward to the ADF Clay Target Association’s (ADFCTA) 2020 Combined Services Championships at the Wagga Wagga Gun Club from September 13 to 19.

“I’m hoping a few new shooters can come along and learn the ropes,” he said.

More information about the Combined Services Championships can be found at the ADFCTA ForceNet page or by contacting Sgt Chris Whyte on 02 6937 5686.

A hot shot in the heat

From rival states to teammates

Normally a goal keeper, Cfn Timothy Bain enjoys the chance to shoot for goal at Randwick Barracks, Sydney.Photo: AB Thomas Sawtell

Army’s Cpl Colin Russell looks for a pass during the interservice netball tournament in Wagga Wagga.Photo: Cpl Oliver Carter

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Sportdefence.gov.au/news/armynewsFebruary 20, 2020 23

Cpl Julia Whitwell

NEGOTIATING the wind and waves of Sydney Harbour, more than 30 Army members were among 110 participants in the 2019 ADF Sailing Association (ADFSA) carnival.

The carnival, in December, encouraged people with a range of sailing abilities to chal-lenge themselves in the Interservice Keelboat Championship, Interservice Yacht Regatta and Combined Services Dinghy Regatta. There was also a training course for new members.

WO2 Andrew Makin, of Battlespace Communications Operations Group, said the three-day, five-race yacht regatta was an “amazing opportunity”.

“I was able to skipper a 40-foot Beneteau yacht with a crew of 10 on board while racing on Sydney Harbour,” WO2 Makin said.

ADFSA member Capt Luke Le Grand par-ticipated in the yacht and dinghy events and said the two-day dinghy race challenged him the most.

“Sailing around on the Beneteau yacht was civilised but the Tasar dinghies were a lot more fun,” Capt Le Grand said.

He and his skipper, Flt-Sgt Wayne Loder, were forced to think outside the square as they faced “materiel challenges”.

“If something breaks the idea is to jerry-rig it so you can continue to sail,” Capt Le Grand said.

“We were doing well for the first day and

then we had a series of things go wrong for the following day. I think we were jinxed.

“In the third race we lost our mainsail, which cut 70 per cent of our power. Flt-Sgt Loder came up with an idea of how to restring it, when my inclination was to radio for a tow.

“He definitely stretched the realms of the possible and it was a pleasure to sail with him.”

WO2 Meika Wright and Wg-Cdr Sean Ahern were the top ADF team in the dinghy regatta, while Air Force teams won the keel-boat championship and the yacht regatta.

As old hands raced around the harbour, 10 new members completed a two-day Australian Sailing Crew and Helm Training Course.

ADFSA president and carnival organiser Wg-Cdr Ahern said the course prepared new members for events.

“To compete in the races, you need some level of prior experience on the water, so this course was a way to include novice sailors who weren’t yet at that level,” Wg-Cdr Ahern said.

Australian Olympic silver medallist Will Ryan also made an appearance at the carnival, speaking to participants about his experience of competitive sailing.

A list of ADFSA events, including for new members, is available on the DRN at collab/vcdf/org/ADC/ADFSC/ADF_Sailing/SitePages/upcomingEvents_activities.aspx

Chancing a jerry rig

Participants sail Elliot 7 boats on Sydney Harbour during the 2019 ADF Sailing carnival.Photo: AB Jarrod Mulvihill

February 20, 2020

SPORT

NET GAINArmy passes the test at the interservice netball tournament

Page 22

Pte Cassandra Hall shapes to pass during the

ADF Netball Association interservice tournament in

Wagga Wagga.Photo: Cpl Oliver Carter