SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDE

NEWSNAVYThe official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy

Volume 59, No. 3, March 10, 2016

BUILDING BLOCKS

Navy capabilities to undergo most extensive regeneration since WWII♦12 new submarines♦ 3 Hobart-class destroyers♦ 9 anti-submarine warfare frigates♦ 12 offshore vessels♦ 2 replenishment vessels

NUSHIP Hobart, the first of Navy’s three Hobart-class destroyers, is in the final stages of construction and is due

to be commissioned late next year. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

SPECIAL FEATURE www.defence.gov.au/WhitePaper

THE White Paper outlines a comprehen-sive plan for a more capable, agile and potent ADF over coming decades.

I urge all who wear the white uniform, or those who work in the Navy group, to read the WP as printed. You don’t need to read just those sections that relate to Navy, you need to read it all. You also need to read the Industry Policy state-ment.

I have spoken over the past 12 months of the importance of our ability to prepare for the future through Plan Pelorus and the necessity for us to undertake this journey is emphasised by the Government’s announcements on future Navy capability.

Over the next decade to 2025-26, we will see one of the largest regenerations of our maritime capabilities, but this is only part of the story.

The announcement of significant plat-form investment is a national endeavour that Navy can only achieve working closely with industry.

The Navy will become more potent over the next two decades through the acquisition of more capable submarines, ships and aircraft, and better integra-tion of combat and supporting systems across Defence.

Navy will continue to be a lead con-tributor in the ADF’s foreign engagement with neighbouring countries where we will draw on our network of international partnerships in ways that generate Navy capabilities and maintain high levels of interoperability.

As a result of this strategic forecast the Navy will become part of a digitally networked ADF which will be more lethal and capable of supporting the Australian Government in a variety of scenarios ranging from humanitarian relief to war fighting.

What the White Paper does identify clearly is the strategic challenges in the region, particularly regarding maritime threats – 50 per cent of the world’s sub-marines within the region by 2030, and uncertainty in the implementation of a rules-based system.

Navy has to be more potent, more

agile – it’s more about availability – that is what we are trying to do, and if you think of it in that regard, you do start driving towards the industry policy state-ment, you do start thinking of the ena-blers, you do start to think of the signifi-cance of those parts that bring together the affect we are required to deliver to CDF and to Defence.

But the White Paper also talks about our network capability and that is impor-tant, because this is not just Navy’s con-tribution to it – it is where we align with Air Force, where we align with Army. When we are in the maritime space it’s not just about ships, it is about maritime patrol aircraft, it is about how we are actually going to talk to maritime patrol aircraft, how we are going to operate together as a single entity.

I’m not oblivious to the challenges. We have to make sure we manage the growth in expectations – we have to con-sider the great integration that it is going to be required from us across the ADF.

This is all about opportunity. We have to think big. We have to think enterprise. We have to think risk management. But, more importantly, we have to think dif-ferently.

We will fully exploit the FPR outcome – One Defence – and, in this case, one journey to deliver this mountain of chal-lenges we are about to be given.

We need to be able to drive home a change in our behaviours.

Visionary leadership is what we are going to need. Shipbuilding policy, con-tinuous build – we need to understand it. It is a long-term strategy – it’s a national endeavour.

We need to consider how we are going to put it in place. Industry has already started to think about it – we need to align ourselves with it.

If fits in with my mantra: deterrence, lethality, availability, sustainability and affordability.

The White Paper draws on each of these things, from strategy right through to how we operate, but not forgetting the important enablers along the way.

We can do this.

FROM THE CHIEF

INVESTMENT in our maritime opera-tions and anti-submarine warfare capabil-ities over the next decade to 2025-26 will support the most comprehensive regen-

eration of our maritime capabilities since WWII.

This will strengthen the ADF’s ability to conduct a spectrum of tasks ranging from border security and hydrographic survey, through to patrols, anti-piracy operations and combat at sea.

CN VADM Tim Barrett said the Navy would become more potent over the next two decades through the acquisition of more capable submarines, ships and aircraft, and better integration of combat and supporting systems across Defence.

“The future fleet Australia will start

building this decade will be a visionary pro-ject of national significance,” VADM Barrett said.

“The concept of continuous ship build-ing will not just be a change of pace for Australian industry but a change of par-adigm. Continuous warship building will transform our industrial landscape and gen-erate employment not just for the next gen-eration of Australians but indefinitely into the future.”

FUTURE SUBMARINESTHE future submarine program is the largest defence procurement in Australia’s history.

A fleet of 12 new regionally superior submarines will likely begin to enter service in the early 2030s, with delivery extending

over two decades to around 2050. A review based on strategic circumstanc-

es at the time and developments in subma-rine technology will be conducted in the late 2020s to consider whether the configura-tion of the submarines remains suitable or if consideration of other specifications should begin.

The Collins-class submarine fleet will continue to be supported and upgraded to maintain Australia’s submarine capability until transition to the new model.

The Government will announce the results of the competitive evaluation process for the future submarine this year.

Surface vessels will also continue to play a critical role in protecting our sovereign-ty, maintaining presence, and projecting

force into the region and beyond. The sur-face vessels will be capable of independent Australian operations, as well as working in coalition taskforces.

DESTROYERS & FRIGATESTHREE Hobart-class destroyers will be in service by the early 2020s. These vessels will provide Australian and coalition mar-itime task groups with defence against air and missile attack. Nine new anti-subma-rine warfare frigates will replace the fleet of eight Anzac-class frigates from the late 2020s. The new frigates will have the range and endurance to operate globally, and will be equipped with offensive and self-protec-tion systems.

OFFSHORE PATROL VESSELSTWELVE new OPVs will start entering ser-vice from the early 2020s, replacing the 13 Armidale-class patrol boats. The OPVs will have greater reach and endurance than the Armidale-class patrol boat fleet, allowing them to perform a wider range of missions.

REPLENISHMENT VESSELSTWO new replenishment vessels will begin service by 2026. A third replenish-ment vessel or logistics support ship will enter service in the late 2020s. These vessels will replace the current mixed fleet of one replenishment ship and one oiler ship, which carries fuel only.

HYDROGRAPHIC CAPABILITYTHE military hydrography capability will be updated. The current fleet of two large and four smaller ADF hydrographic survey vessels will be retired from around the early 2020s. Defence will replace this capability with an efficient combination of military and commercial hydrographic and oceanograph-ic survey capabilities.

CANBERRA CLASSOVER time, the two Canberra-class large amphibious ships’ capabilities, including sensors, countermeasures, and weapons, will be enhanced. Additional landing craft will also be acquired in the longer term to load and unload the Canberra-class ships.

ROMEOS

TWENTY-four MH60R Seahawk naval combat helicopters will soon be in service to enhance the anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare operations of Hobart-class destroy-ers and Anzac-class frigates.

UNMANNED AIRCRAFTENHANCING the ADF’s aerial maritime surveillance capability is also a Defence White Paper priority, involving the P-8A Poseidon aircraft and the MQ-4C Triton unmanned surveillance aircraft.

To improve ships’ situational aware-ness on operations, new maritime tactical unmanned aircraft will be acquired that will be deployable on a range of RAN vessels.

MARITIME RENEWAL

Navy resurgence and reinvigoration the focus of Defence White Paper 2016.

ENABLERSHMAS Stirling and Fleet Base East will be upgrad-ed over the next 10 years, including wharves and training and support facilities. Garden Island will be upgraded to accommodate larger platforms and HMAS Coonawarra will also be upgraded in the short-medium term to enhance its operational effec-tiveness. Support bases and recruitment training facilities such as HMAS Cerberus and Puckapunyal will be upgraded to maintain capability.

AMPHIBIOUS CAPABILITYAUSTRALIA’S strengthened amphibious capability centres on Navy’s new Canberra-class amphibious ships, which will provide the ADF with an unprec-edented capability to conduct a wide range of operations in the maritime environment. These amphibious ships will enable the ADF to land a sizeable force of personnel and equipment across a broad spectrum of operations. Over time, the capability of the ships will be enhanced to better support joint command and control, including upgrades to communications and intelli-gence systems and semi-autonomous self-defence capabilities. In the longer term, Defence will replace the ships’ landing craft used to transport people and equipment from ship to shore. Together with logistics support ship HMAS Choules, the amphibious ships will provide scalable and flexible options for amphibious operations and sea-lift.

CONTINUOUS BUILDTHE Government will implement a continuous build of surface warships in Australia. The continuous build will begin with the construction of the new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) in 2018. The 12 OPVs will support border and resource protection and military patrol and response operations, and will have greater reach and endurance than the Armidale-class fleet. The OPV will have the ability to embark unmanned aerial, underwater and surface vehicles and to operate larger sea boats than the existing Armidale-class. The build of the future frigates has been brought forward by three years to start construc-tion in 2020. Nine new anti-submarine warfare frigates will replace the fleet of eight Anzac-class frigates from the late 2020s. When taken together, the projects to replace our existing fleets of submarines, frigates, destroyers and patrol boats will be worth more than $100 billion for the acquisition phases alone, which is investment on a truly national scale. The Government’s Naval Shipbuilding Plan will be issued this year.

AIR AND SEA LIFTTHE plans in the 2016 Defence White Paper will deliver a flexible mix of air and sea lift capabilities that will enable the ADF to deploy to and resupply and sustain missions at great distances in Australia, in the region, and around the world. The C-17A Globemaster, C-130J Hercules and C-27J Spartan transport aircraft will provide the backbone of the ADF’s flexible airlift fleet to at least 2030. Navy will operate up to eight MRH90 helicopters as maritime support. HMA Ships Choules, Canberra and Adelaide will offer scalable and flexible options for sea lift and amphibious operations. Choules will be upgraded and remain in service until it is replaced after 2025. A new large-hulled multi-purpose patrol vessel has also been acquired for the Navy to support border protection and maritime resource security related tasks with the Australian Border Force.

Photo: POIS Kelvin Hockey

HMAS Canberra with five MRH90s on deck

and her four landing craft deployed.

Photo: LSIS Helen Frank

2 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS3

March 10, 2016DEFENCE WHITE PAPER 2016 www.defence.gov.au/WhitePaper

4 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

TOP BRASS QUIZZED ON SUBS

LCPL Sebastian Beurich

CHIEF of the Defence Force ACM Mark Binskin held a round-table meet-ing with members of the Australian media on March 1 to discuss future capabilities outlined in the 2016 Defence White Paper (DWP16).

He was joined by the head of the Force Structure Review, Neil Orme, Head One Defence Implementation program AVM Neil Hart, Head Navy Capability RADM Johnathan Mead and Head Modernisation and Strategic Planning – Army MAJGEN Gus McLachlan, for the 45-minute briefing.

The first topic addressed was the possibility that a capability gap would arise between the retirement of the Collins-class and the commissioning of the future submarines.

“It’s probable two Collins will have to go through an additional mainte-nance period to be able to cover off on the capabilities we need,” ACM Binskin said.

“We’re not going to retire them and have no boats in the water, or reduced boats in the water.”

RADM Mead added there were a number of enhancements and upgrades to the Collins-class, which would ensure it kept its capability edge.

“All of the Collins will go through a full-cycle docking to treat any age issues, as well as receive upgrades to their weapons and sensors,” he said.

ACM Binskin said a review would

Collins upgrade will leave no capability gaps: CDF

be conducted in the late 2020s to con-sider if the configuration of the subma-rines remained suitable.

“What that means is boat 12 may not look like boat one. You want to have the flexibility to build in-flights of three or four at a time,” he said.

“The basic hull design is the same, but we’re continuing to evolve the sys-tems as we learn and grow.”

The senior leadership group was then asked what the capability priori-ties of the DWP16 said about the stra-tegic priorities for Australia over the next half century.

“People say ‘how would you do all of that at once?’, but that’s not the intent,” ACM Binskin said.

“The force is employable in those areas, but we can’t spread ourselves across all of them in one scenario.”

Mr Orme said the Force Structure Review was about synchronising the strategic intent of the government.

“The government had extensive discussions through the early stage of the DWP about what missions it want-ed the ADF to do and what resources they were prepared to invest,” he said.

“Balancing those two figures, in a simple term, spits out a force struc-ture.”

ACM Binskin then went on to talk about deficiencies in some equip-ment currently utilised by the Special Forces.

“Their manoeuvrability in the bat-tle space is limited by not being able to deploy helicopters forward quickly,” he said.

“We can load a number of these smaller helicopters onto a C-17 Globemaster, which enables us to fly our Special Forces in with them at the same time.

“It doesn’t mean we wouldn’t still rely on coalition air assets, but it does give us more autonomy in some sce-narios.”

Mr Orme said there was a specif-ic section in the DWP16 for Special Forces modernisation.

“It’s not something that we have called out in that manner previously. I think it’s in the order of a quarter of a billion dollars over a decade,” he said.

‘‘ – CDF ACM Mark Binskin

We’re not going to retire them and have no boats in the water.

AUSTRALIA’S intelligence, sur-veillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, space and cyber capabilities will be enhanced over the next decade to 2025-26 so that forces have a comprehensive understanding, and situational awareness, of events around them.

The seven high-altitude MQ-4C Triton unmanned surveillance aircraft will complement the P-8A Poseidon’s capabilities.

An armed ISR unmanned aircraft will also be acquired for land forces in the early 2020s.

A fully integrated armed unmanned aircraft capability, supported by intel-ligence, will facilitate timely delivery of accurate information to commanders at all levels.

This capability will also enhance the ADF’s counter-terrorism support capability overseas and could augment search and rescue, HADR, and coastal surveillance tasks.

DEFENCE WHITE PAPER 2016

Renewed focus on space, cyber capabilities

The government will upgrade the current air defence network, including the Vigilaire air surveillance system and the Jindalee operational radar network.

Defence’s imagery capability will be enhanced through greater access to partner and commercial space-based capabilities and strengthened analysis.

New, more modern intelligence systems will be introduced for Defence, supported by enhanced information processing. This will include the ability to achieve near real-time production, exploitation and dissemination of data to support a range of strike and other combat operations.

Information networks and systems of the DIO, Australian Geospatial Intelligence Organisation and the ASD will be better integrated.

The outcome will be to support high-technology platforms such as the Growler, Joint Strike Fighter and P-8A Poseidon aircraft, Hobart-class AWDs and modern armoured vehicles.

Improved information processing will enhance situational awareness, including the location of friendly forces, civilian populations and aircraft, as well as potential threats.

Space surveillance and situational awareness capabilities will be strength-ened through the C-band radar and opti-cal space surveillance telescope, to be operated by Australia and the US.

Electronic warfare support to naval, air and land forces will also be enhanced for operations in hostile elec-tromagnetic environments.

The fleet of 12 EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft to enter service

from 2018 will be upgraded to maintain alignment with the US Growler fleet.

The five long-range electronic warfare support aircraft based on the Gulfstream G550 airframe will have additional modified systems.

Defence will continue satellite-based communications upgrades, including ground-station segments and mobile and deployable land terminals.

Defence’s cyber capabilities will also be strengthened to protect Defence and other critical Australian government systems from malicious cyber activity.

A Biometric Data Storage and Management System will provide an identity registration and verification capability for operations, building on the lessons learned from recent operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan.

The digital hydrographic systems at the Australian Hydrographic Office will be upgraded by 2025 to support national tasking for survey and chart production.

OUR PEOPLESOME 1200 new APS positions will be created in areas critical to Defence’s future capability including intelligence, cyber se-curity and space-based capabilities, within a future APS workforce of about 18,200.

Enhancements in intelligence, space and cyber security will require 900 perma-nent ADF positions and 800 permanent APS positions, including in intelligence collection and analysis.

Enabling capabilities will require an additional 1100 permanent ADF and 400 APS positions. This includes logistics, operational support, training systems and areas, enhanced support to Navy engineering, force design, analysis and

assurance, and strategic and international policy.

Enhancements to the current and planned air and sea lift fleets will result in the need for 800 additional permanent ADF positions.

The larger maritime and anti-subma-rine force will require an increase of 800 permanent ADF positions. The strike and air combat workforce will increase by 500 permanent ADF positions to support the deployable ground-launched air defence capabilities, and command and control for integrated air and missile defence.

An additional 700 permanent ADF positions will support enhancements to capabilities in land combat and amphibi-ous warfare.

SUPPORTSUPPORT will continue to ADF fami-lies during postings, relocations and deployments. Changes to the indexa-tion of the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits super-annuation schemes have been made to ensure military pensions keep pace with the cost of living. A contemporary superannuation scheme will be intro-duced for new ADF members from July next year. Support will be con-tinued for the activities of ex-service organisations that assist current or former ADF members.

Photo: ABIS Steven Thomson

www.defence.gov.au/WhitePaper

The high-altitude MQ-4C Triton unmanned

surveillance aircraft.

SERVING AUSTRALIA WITH PRIDE

NEWSNAVYThe official newspaper of the Royal Australian Navy

Volume 59, No. 3, March 10, 2016

CRITICAL MISSION

HMAS Canberra arrives in Fiji to aid clean-up efforts in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Winston – Pages 4-5

HMAS Melbourne returns – Page 7 Celebrating 115 years – Centre

Vehicles from Brisbane’s 7 Brigade embark in HMAS Canberra before the ship sails for cyclone-ravaged Fiji. Photo: LSIS Helen Frank

2 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016

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SGT Dave Morley

WAGGA WAGGA is a long way from the sea but that didn’t stop Navy members at the RAAF Base from carrying out an impressive colours cer-emony on February 26.

The ceremony commemorated the loss of HMAS Perth I in the Battle of Sunda Strait on the night of February 28, 1942.

WO - Navy Support at RAAF Base Wagga Shane Rossetto said the RAAF Wagga SADFO and Navy Wagga members became custodians of the jackstaff of HMAS Perth II in 2009.

“This nondescript jackstaff is a direct link to HMA Ships Perth I, Perth II and Perth III,” WOAT Rossetto said.

“When the jackstaff was installed the CN, in agreement with CAF, granted Wagga Navy members permission to raise our White Ensign on three occasions each year.

“The dates coincide with specific events from the history of the ships named Perth.”

WO Rossetto said other colours ceremonies were carried out in July and October.

“The second event recognises the commission-ing of the guided missile destroyer Perth II, com-

missioned on July 17, 1965,” he said.“The third ceremony reminds us of Perth

II’s war service, particularly October 18, 1967, when she was struck by Viet Cong rockets while serving on the gun line off Chau Khe, North Vietnam.”

SMN* Bradley Hooper was nominated to ring the HMAS Stalwart bell during the ceremony.

He said it was an honour to have the oppor-tunity to take part in such an important Navy tradition. “Being at a RAAF Base, we don’t get to carry out our traditions all that often, so it’s good when we can get out and do something like this,” he said.

Flag hand SMN* Ryan Hutcheson said it was great to be able to give back something to the Navy by holding a colours ceremony.

“Being on a RAAF Base, it’s good we can still celebrate our Navy heritage with an event like this,” he said.

“It’s good, too, that ceremonies like this one can keep alive what happened in the past for future generations.”

SMN* Redgerald Nyamadzavo took part in the ceremony as assistant flag hand.

“It was an honour for me to take part in this ceremony in this role,” he said.

Perth III, currently carrying out pre-deploy-ment work-ups off the coast of her namesake city, was able to send a representative to attend the ceremony.

Perth III’s Maritime Warfare Officer LEUT Cleo Scarce flew across from Western Australia to represent her ship at the ceremony.

She said she felt privileged to be able to attend the ceremony.

“HMAS Perth I represents the second most significant loss of life on an Australian warship,” she said.

“There were a large number of brave men who perished when the ship was lost and those who survived suffered as prisoners of war.

“Perth II had an honourable record as well through the Vietnam War and in Perth III we always look to those who have served before us and who continue to serve in Perth’s name.”

LEUT Scarce said Perth III also held its own ceremony on February 28 to honour the sacrifices of the men of Perth I and Perth II and to also remember the service of the ship’s company of Perth III.

Two 723SQN Squirrels, currently taking part in navigation exercises out of RAAF Base Wagga, carried out a flypast during the ceremony.

LCDR Peter Croce

A YOUNG sailor lost during HMAS Sydney’s battle with a German raider off the coast of Western Australia was remembered at an Australian War Memorial Last Post ceremony on February 26.

CMDR Paul Cottier led the read-ing to remember AB Martin Curtis James who was among 645 killed in one of Australia’s biggest war mys-teries that was not solved until 2008.

CMDR Cottier said it was a mov-ing experience to be part of a cer-emony to remember the personnel of Sydney II, who were lost after engaging the German surface raider Kormoran in 1941.

“It is an honour to take part in this ceremony and honour a sail-or who gave his life in defence of Australia in those very turbulent years of WWII,” he said.

“It’s a great story behind a name cast on the wall among many oth-ers. To read about a 19-year-old who lost his life is just terrible and I hope today is a fitting tribute to a proud young man taken far too early in his life.”

Sailors march during the colours ceremony at RAAF Base Wagga Wagga to commemorate the sinking of Perth I on February 28, 1942. Photo: SGT Dave Morley

Perth remembered

AB James is also commemorated on the Plymouth Naval Memorial in Britain which includes the names of sailors from all parts of the then British Empire with no known grave.

Martin James was born in Ballarat, Victoria, on December 10, 1921, the son of Lewis and Roseann James.

The family later moved to

Newcastle, NSW. Enlisting in the Navy on his 18th birthday, Martin James stood about 173cm tall, with brown hair and eyes and what was described as a ‘fresh’ complexion.

He posted to HMAS Sydney in mid-1940 and was on board the cruiser when it was sent as one of several Australian warships to the Mediterranean where she sank the Italian cruiser Bartolomeo Colleoni in the battle of Cape Spada in July.

On November 19, Sydney was steaming back to Fremantle, hav-ing escorted a troopship part of the way to Singapore. At about 4pm the cruiser spotted a suspicious mer-chant ship and decided to investi-gate and by 5.30pm, Sydney had almost drawn alongside the vessel when it suddenly revealed its true identity as a German raider.

After a fierce exchange, the crew of Kormoran abandoned ship and a damaged Sydney limped over the horizon – succumbing in darkness, never to be seen for another 67 years.

Read more about HMAS Sydney II at www.navy.gov.au/hmas-sydney-ii-part-1.

Ceremony pays tribute to lost sailors of Sydney

A young AB Martin James.

ADO rises to blood challengeLCPL Sebastian Beurich

THE ADO had a bumper year for donations during the 2015 Defence Blood Challenge, with almost 19,000 recorded between the three services and the APS.

Staff from the Australian Red Cross Blood Services recog-nised the contribution to RED25 by presenting an outstanding achievement award to the CDF, ACM Mark Binskin, during a ceremony at Old Parliament House on February 23.

ACM Binskin said Defence was proud to support the Red Cross Blood Service.

“I’m pleased to say we’ve increased our donations by 10 per cent over the past year, which demonstrates our commitment to this life-saving organisation,” ACM Binskin said.

“I’m told the combined emer-gency services are hot on our heels, so the challenge is on to lift our numbers in 2016.”

The donations helped to save about 56,700 lives through blood and plasma transfusions.

3NEWSMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

ALL three services are set to ben-efit from the February 25 release of the 2016 Defence White Paper (DWP16) with materiel procure-ment, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), infrastruc-ture upgrades, and recruitment of personnel over the coming decades topping the list.

The Government will increase Defence funding to 2 per cent of Australia’s GDP by 2020-21.

This funding plan provides $29.9 billion more to 2025-26 than previously planned, including about $195 billion of investment in Defence capability.

At the ADFA launch, Defence Minister Marise Payne said it was an exciting day for Defence.

“The 2016 Defence White Paper will deliver a more integrated ADF, more capable of conducting independent combat operations to defend Australia and protect our interests in our immediate region, while enhancing our ability to oper-ate with the United States and con-tribute to global coalition opera-tions,” Minister Payne said.

“The 2016 White Paper sets out our funding commitment in real terms over the next 10 years.

“Australia’s security and pros-perity are directly affected by events in our region and the wider world. This White Paper sets out the Government’s defence strategy to protect and promote our strategic defence interests wherever they are engaged; in our immediate neigh-bourhood, in our region and across the globe.”

ISR capabilities will be modern-ised to ensure the ADF has compre-hensive situational awareness.

The White Paper places a key focus on investment in vital ena-blers, including developing and maintaining critical infrastruc-ture on Defence bases, training and testing facilities, transforming Defence’s information and commu-nications technology system, and enhancing the skills of the men and women of the ADF.

Pr ime Min i s t e r Malco lm Turnbull said the security of Australia and its people was the

A more integrated ADF

most fundamental responsibility for government.

“This White Paper is a plan to deliver a more potent, agile and engaged ADF that is ready to respond whenever our interests are threatened or our help is needed,” he said.

“It is a plan to become more power-ful on land and in the skies, and more commanding both on the seas and beneath them – it is a program to be more resilient in the cyber space, to be more innovative with technology, and

to have greater situational awareness, thanks to our advanced intelligence capabilities.

“In the next two decades, half of the world’s submarines and at least half of the world’s advanced combat aircraft will be operating in the Indo-Pacific region, in our region. And this compli-cates the outlook for our security and strategic planning.”

The permanent ADF force will grow to about 62,400 by 2025-26 and 1200 APS positions will be created,

within a total APS workforce of about 18,200.

Defence will invest in skilling the workforce through innovative recruit-ment, training, retention and re-shap-ing initiatives to ensure that DWP16 goals are met.

For the first time, the Government’s major investments in new weapons, platforms, systems, and the enabling infrastructure, workforce and infor-mation and communications tech-nology are outlined in the Integrated

Investment Program, which has been published with the DWP16.

Addressing hundreds of ADFA cadets and midshipmen at the launch, Mr Turnbull said he dedicated the DWP16 to them and their generation of Australians whose security the plan was designed to ensure.

“This will now become your responsibility to maintain,” he said.

“A stronger Australia supports a safer Australia, a safer region and a safer world.”

The Defence White Paper sets out a plan for the next 10 years, not just in terms of spending, but also in relation to global coalition operations.

THE Government will invest about 18 per cent of Defence capital expenditure to 2025-26 in land combat and amphibi-ous warfare capabilities through greater situational awareness, firepower, protec-tion, mobility and force sustainability. Key weapons systems to be acquired include: new rifles and pistols; direct fire support weapons, including those used against armoured vehicles, bunkers and installations; and indirect weapons such as mortars.

New improved personal protection equipment will be acquired, such as body armour, night-fighting equipment, and protective equipment to mitigate chemical, biological and radiological threats.

New combat reconnaissance, infan-try fighting, new generation armoured and protected mobility fleets, such as the Hawkei light PMV as announced last year, and upgrades to the M1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks will ensure forces have the protection, mobility and firepower they need to defeat potential adversaries on the future battlefield.

A new armed ISR unmanned aircraft capability is programmed for the early 2020s, to facilitate the timely delivery of accurate information to commanders at all levels.

New small unmanned aircraft will provide better real-time ISR support to tactical commanders.

A new long-range rocket system will be acquired in the mid 2020s to provide additional firepower at greater

distances, out to 300km, to complement existing artillery capability.

The 22 Tiger Armed Reconnais-sance helicopters, which provide fire-power for land force operations, will be replaced from the mid-2020s by manned or unmanned systems, or a combina-tion of both, depending on technological developments.

Battlefield logistic support to troops will be enhanced, including deploy-able logistics information systems, and replacement of maritime transport vessels.

A riverine patrol capability will be re-established through a fleet of lightly armed boats from about 2022 to allow operations in estuarine environments.

New deployable land communication networks, including satellite and terres-trial communications, will equip forces with the communications capabilities they need for future operations.

Special Forces capability will be sig-nificantly enhanced with new high-end weapons, improved mission command networks and situational awareness tools, enhanced tactical mobility, spe-cialised force protection, and logistic support capabilities.

The Government will also deliver a new fleet of light helicopters which are rapidly deployable by transport aircraft from the mid-2020s to enhance mobility for special operations missions.

ARMY

THE Government will invest about 17 per cent of Defence capital expenditure in strike and air combat capabilities to 2025-26.

The 72 F35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) will enter service from 2020 to replace the F/A18A/B Classic Hornets.

The JSFs will use a mix of air-to-air and air-to-sur-face weapons, operate at extended range, maintaining stealth, providing a true multi-role capability.

The 24 F/A18F Super Hornets will complement the JSF aircraft. After 2020, the Government will consider options to replace the Super Hornets in about 2030.

The 12 E/A18G Growler electronic attack aircraft will enter service from 2018.

The six in-service E7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft will continue to be up-graded in order to maintain their capability edge to the mid 2030s.

A series of new air-to-surface, air-to-air and high-speed and long-range strike and anti-ship weapons will be acquired.

The ADF’s integrated air and missile defence system will be enhanced to improve the accuracy and speed of ADF systems’ response to air and missile threats, and to integrate and share air and space surveillance informa-tion more effectively. The capabilities will allow flexibility for further enhancement to handle more complex threats.

The Government will increase investment in capa-bilities to better connect the communications, sensor

AIR FORCEF35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters

and targeting systems of various platforms so they can more effectively combine their capabilities, generating greater potency and lethality.

Defence will also acquire ground-based active elec-tronically scanned array radars from about 2020 and expand Australia’s access to air and space situational awareness information, including through space-based systems.

The Government will also introduce a more sophis-ticated ground-based air defence system to replace the short-range RBS70 missile system.

A new man-portable short-range system will be in-troduced by the early 2020s, and will be supplemented by an advanced tactical and medium-range surface-to-air missile system in the mid to late 2020s, providing layered air defence against a broad range of capable air threats.

‘‘ – Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull

This White Paper is a plan to deliver a more potent, agile and engaged ADF.

New generation armoured and protected mobility fleets, such as the Hawkei light PMV, will ensure forces have the mobility they need.

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THE Australian Government sent HMAS Canberra to Fiji as part of Australia’s ongoing support in the wake of Tropi-cal Cyclone Winston. This is the first deployment of Canberra in support of a humanitarian and disaster relief operation (HADR) overseas.Canberra is carrying Army engineering assets, three MRH90 helicopters and about 60 tonnes of emergency relief supplies including water purification equipment and medical supplies. This capability will help Fijian authorities clear debris, restore power, purify water and conduct engineering assessments.

Since Australia’s relief efforts began, eight RAAF C-17A Globemaster and C-130J Hercules sorties to Fiji have delivered personnel, equipment and about 84 tonnes of humanitarian aid and equipment. RAAF AP-3C Orion surveil-lance aircraft also remain deployed to Fiji to conduct aerial assessments.To support the civilian-led assistance, a joint task force of ADF personnel is help-ing coordinate the strategic sea and airlift of humanitarian supplies.About 1000 ADF personnel have de-ployed to Fiji.

Friends flock to Fiji to lend a hand

ADF COMMITMENT TO FIJI

HMAS Canberra embarks Australian Aid stores before deploying on Operation Fiji Assist.

Commander Amphibious Task Group CAPT Brett Sonter addresses the ship’s company and embarked forces on the flight deck of HMAS Canberra.

TWO MRH90s departed HMAS Albatross on February 25 to assist the ADF’s human-itarian assistance mission to Fiji.

The helicopters travelled north to join another MRH90 from 808SQN on board HMAS Canberra in Brisbane before the ship and embarked personnel sailed to Fiji.

COMFAA CDRE Chris Smallhorn said the versatility of the MRH90 would make a valuable contribution to relief and recovery efforts.

“The MRH90 and personnel from 808SQN who fly and maintain the aircraft, are enormously adaptable in terms of the sorts of roles and missions they can execute,” CDRE Smallhorn said.

“Humanitarian assistance is one of those tasks that can be enormously chal-lenging and extremely rewarding as we are able to help people in need.

“Navy’s 808SQN and the MRH90 are not strangers to assisting in natural disas-ter or humanitarian assistance.

“The helicopter assisted in relief efforts after Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu in 2015, Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013 and also Operation Render Safe, a mine clearing exercise removing WWII ord-nance in Papua New Guinea in 2014.

“The aircraft is enormously capable, and in the hands of these impressive and talented Navy officers and sailors, it will do its job well.

“We’re enormously proud to be of service, not just to our country, but to our friends in crisis and that this contingent of 808SQN Navy maintainers and aircrew, most of whom are residents of the Shoal-haven, will do their job well.

“I feel it is important for the Shoalhaven to know that your Fleet Air Arm and your Navy are out there doing our best when-ever we are needed.”

MRH90s to play major role

Crews set off from HMAS Albatross to fly two MRH90s to Brisbane to assist the ADF’s humanitarian assistance mission to Fiji. Photo: Robert Crawford

5NEWSMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

Friends flock to Fiji to lend a hand

PERSONNEL, plant equipment, tools, heavy vehicles and aid were just some of the assets either flown in by Army and Navy MRH90s, or transported by sea as Australia’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in Fiji gathered significant momentum.

HMAS Canberra, stationed off the Coast of Fiji’s Koro Island, began amphibious operations in earnest on March 2, with a major muscle move of material and per-sonnel to help those affected by tropical Cyclone Winston which struck on February 20.

Commander JTF635 CAPT Brett Sonter said the level of devastation on Koro Island provided a challenge for all personnel involved in the operation.

“Koro Island was directly in the path of Cyclone Winston so subsequently there is very little on the island that hasn’t been damaged in some way,” CAPT Sonter said.

“Elements of the landing force proceeding ashore will contain two sections of engineers from the Republic of Fiji Military Force, which we have transported from Suva at the request of the Government of Fiji.

“I am confident that the support provided to both the people of the island, and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces will assist in the alleviation of suffering on the island and subsequently foster recovery”.

Beach clearance was conducted before landing by soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment ensuring the chosen landing sites were clear for craft.

The landing points became hives of activity as all manner of breathing and mechanised capabilities came ashore.

Commander of the Land Force LTCOL Michael Bassingthwaighte said the force disembarking Canberra was united in its resolve to help the people of Koro Island.

“We have an incredible depth of talented and dedicat-ed men and women involved in this operation,” LTCOL Bassingthwaighte said.

“A significant challenge lies ahead for those on the ground, but we know we will make a difference over the coming days.”

About 1000 ADF personnel have deployed as part of Operation Fiji Assist with HMAS Canberra at the helm of disaster relief activities.

Engineers from the Republic of Fiji Military Force look out from one of HMAS Canberra’s landing craft as it makes its way to Koro Island.

A front-end loader disembarks from one of HMAS Canberra’s landing craft onto Koro Island.

An Australian Army light amphibious reconnaissance craft enters the well dock of HMAS Canberra to make its way to Koro Island.

Photos: LSIS Helen Frank

LEUT Gordon Jardine speaks with Commander Land Force LTCOL Michael Bassingthwaighte as they travel back to HMAS Canberra on board the ship’s landing craft.

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Natalie Staples

FRIENDS and family l ined the wharf at Garden Island on February 28 to welcome home HMAS Melbourne and her ship’s company of 229 from operations in the Middle East.

The warship spent 204 days away from Sydney and while assigned to Operation Manitou conducted five successful narcot-ics seizures, confiscating nearly 1000kg of heroin valued at about $390 million.

COMSURFOR CDRE Lee Goddard was among the well-wishers on the wharf and told those gathered that Melbourne had made a significant contribution to maritime security.

“HMAS Melbourne’s heroin seizures on this deployment rep-resent approximately 20 per cent of the drugs confiscated from traffickers in the past two years,” CDRE Goddard said.

CO Melbourne CMDR Bill Waters said the ship’s company had worked hard and done a great job.

“From the boarding teams which scoured 50 suspect vessels, to the aircrew, which flew more than 350 hours conducting sur-veillance of an area equivalent of Queensland and NSW, through to the cooks, who served more than 100,000 meals, every member of the crew worked hard,” CMDR Waters said.

“We were patrolling vast tracts of ocean, with operations encom-passing the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

“While serving with com-bined maritime forces we sailed more than 37,000 nautical miles – almost twice around the world.

“This was a huge job but we were well supported by our task group commander, the coali-tion ships, the support agencies back here in Australia and those deployed in the Middle East.”

Melbourne deployed from Sydney on August 9, 2015.

LCDR Peter Croce

SEVEN long months away from home ended with an ecstatic family reunion for HMAS Melbourne sailor CPOET Craig Fowler, after returning from Operation Manitou.

CPO Fowler was reunited with his wife and six children aged 11 to 22 after the frigate returned from a highly successful deployment where the crew intercepted and destroyed about $390 million in drugs.

“It’s been a great trip, but a long one. I’m really looking forward to being back home with the wife and kids,” CPO Fowler said.

“It’s great to be home. I’ve been look-ing forward to this day, just like the rest of the crew have been.

“We can call home from the ship, but being able to hug your family and see your kids is just a great feeling.

“I can’t wait to just go home and sleep in my own bed and do the things that

families do on a daily basis. This was my fifth deployment to the Middle East region since I was first sent there in 1990,” CPO Fowler said.

More than 1000 people greeted HMAS Melbourne.

CO CMDR Bill Waters praised his crew for their dedication and hard work, but also thanked the families which had been the rock and support of those deployed.

“We might be at work doing our job but the families at home also deploy with us,” CMDR Waters said.

“They are the ones still taking the kids to school and keeping the household in order.

“I cannot thank the families at home enough for their efforts to welcome us home today and also their valuable support while we have been deployed.

“To the kids, your mum and dad have done a great job and thank you for letting them help me for the past seven months – you’ve earned those long-awaited presents you’ve been asking for!”

Welcome home Melbourne

Ecstatic to be back in family’s arms

Hundreds line wharf for reunion

CPOET Craig Fowler is reunited with his family at HMAS Melbourne’s welcome home ceremony. Photo: ABIS Steven Thomson

HMAS Melbourne passes Bradley’s Head as she approaches Garden Island after a-six month deployment in the Middle East. Photo: LSIS Sarah Williams

LS Ben Graham holds a teddy bear his godson gifted him before he deployed, top, while,

above, family and friends crowd the wharf. Photos: ABIS Steven Thomson

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8 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016

SGT Dave Morley

IN THE days before Skype and Facebook, deployed members and their families kept in touch by such primitive means as airmail letters and video tapes.

When Iraq invaded Kuwait 25 years ago, then Chief Writer Angella Hillis, a Brisbane-based personal services offic-er, was kept busy ensuring families of deployed members across Queensland and northern NSW were well supported while their loved ones were away.

Now LCDR Hillis said it was the first major deployment since Vietnam and it took a while to sink in just how large the deployment was.

“While many families had experience of that conflict, the Gulf War brought with it new risks, new stresses and the explosion in information and speculation that came with modern telecommunica-tions and media,” she said.

“Right from the first scud missile being fired, we watched the conflict unfolding on TV and dealt with calls from many families seeking support.

“Our social workers and family liai-son officers worked tirelessly with the families to provide the support required.

“Regular morning teas were held at Moreton for the families to come in and meet each other and the staff, along with regional get-togethers.”

LCDR Hillis said the community spirit was very obvious, with the local radio stations regularly broadcasting their support for service personnel and their families.

“A mix of companies, big and small, donated goods for the family morning teas and get-togethers and a Christmas hamper for each of the families.”

According to LCDR Hillis, fami-lies of deployed members used creative ways to boost the morale of the deployed members. “One wife organised a video

Integral to first Gulf War THE ADF has honoured the sacrifices of those who fought to liberate Kuwait 25 years ago in the first Gulf War.

A commemorative service, held at the Navy Memorial in Canberra on February 26, marked the 25th anniver-sary of the cessation of hostilities in Operations Desert Storm and Damask.

After Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in August 1990, the interna-tional community responded with swift condemnation and a large mul-tinational task force was assembled to counter the invasion. Australia was among 30 countries to contribute to the coalition, and Iraqi forces were expelled from Kuwait on February 28, 1991.

VCDF VADM Ray Griggs said it was important to recognise all who contributed to the liberation of Kuwait, and in particular those who lost their lives or had their lives changed by the conflict.

“While no ADF members were killed during the first Gulf War, other countries suffered significant losses and it is important that we remember those sacrifices,” VADM Griggs said.

“This ceremony is an important acknowledgement of the breadth of military losses and civilian suffering experienced as a result of Saddam Hussein’s actions.”

VADM Griggs said the ADF con-tribution involved all three services, including personnel who served with coalition forces. Importantly, the seven

Navy women on board the replenish-ment ship HMAS Westralia were the first ADF women to serve in combat roles in war-like service.

Shortly after the invasion, and with just 72 hours’ notice, HMA Ships Adelaide, Darwin and Success were making their way to the region to assist with the enforcement of mari-time sanctions. They were extensively supported by the RAAF en route to assist them in readying for the uncer-tain task ahead.

At the end of 1990, HMA Ships Brisbane and Sydney replaced Adelaide and Darwin and operated as an integral part of the Gulf naval strike force known as Battle Force Zulu, for which they received US Navy Meritorious Unit Citations for “sus-tained outstanding service in warlike operations”.

Army and RAAF personnel were also deployed in support of coalition efforts to liberate Kuwait in a variety of roles.

ADF health specialists deployed in the US Navy Hospital Ship Comfort. After the war, more health personnel deployed in challenging conditions to Kurdish parts of Iraq to help the many civilians living in refugee camps.

The Navy’s clearance divers were also recognised with a Meritorious Unit Citation for their outstanding work in clearing mines and unexplod-ed ammunition from Kuwait’s ports.

Members of Australia’s Federation Guard, left, provide a catafalque party during the First Gulf War memorial service. ABML-S Trish McTaggart, above, in the ceremonial party and, top, VADM Ray Griggs addresses the service. Photos: POIS Phil Cullinan

How families were supported before modern technology

session just before Christmas so as many families as possible could send a message to their deployed loved one,” she said.

“A copy was sent to each of the deployed ships to be played on Christmas Day.

“Families sent care packages and school children sent letters to the deployed sailors.”

LCDR Hill is received a Flag Officer Navy Support Command Commendation for her efforts during the Gulf War and went on to serve on Operations Slipper, Catalyst and Relex.

LCDR Angella Hillis said the social workers and family liason officers “worked tirelessly with the families to provide the support they required”.

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9NEWSMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

HMAS Darwin joined French Carrier Strike Group FNS Charles de Gaulle for a passage exercise while on station in the Middle East Region in late February.

CJOPS VADM David Johnston said it was a significant opportu-nity to strengthen relations.

“During Darwin’s planned deployment on Operation Manitou, we were able to coordinate an opportunity to provide escort, force protection support and ship-to-ship operations with the Charles de Gaulle over a three-day period,” VADM Johnston said.

CO Darwin CMDR Phillip Henry said, “We welcomed the opportunity to deepen our level of maritime interoperability with the French and to demonstrate the ADF’s commitment to practi-cal Defence cooperation in the region.”

XO Darwin LCDR Tina Brown said the exercise also presented a unique opportunity for the crew to engage at an international level.

“There were opportunities for our sailors to visit Charles de

Gaulle and other French ships to get a taste of life on board.”

Australia and France have a strong defence relationship with frequent cooperation in the Asia Pacific. France and Australia each contribute to the CMF. Both coun-tries are also leading contributors to international efforts in the coali-tion fight against terrorist group Daesh.

Earlier in the month, the crew of Darwin benefited from mis-sion-specific training in Bahrain before the ship’s first patrol as part of Operation Manitou.

The training focused primar-ily on boarding techniques, which included searching, intelligence gathering, and security.

Members of the US Navy Criminal Investigation Service and Coast Guard provided Darwin with up-to-date information regarding their new area of operations.

LEUT Josh Cowell said the activity consolidated the training the crew received before leaving Australia.

Darwin’s French connection

HMAS Darwin conducts operations with an embarked helicopter (above left) from Charles de Gaulle, which can be seen in the distance (above right) looking out over Darwin’s bow. Photos: ABIS Sarah Ebsworth

CMDR Phillip Henry observes a Rafale aircraft landing on the Charles de Gaulle during the training exercise.

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LCDR Felicity Petrie

HMAS Ballarat proceeded to a buoy in Cockburn Sound, Western Australia, recently, signifying the completion of a busy and successful anti-ship missile defence upgrade.

The Anzac-class frigate was the fifth vessel to proceed to mariner skills evaluation and sea trials post upgrade, following HMA ships Perth, Arunta, Anzac and Warramunga.

The upgrade project delivers not only an upgraded combat system and the Australian designed CEA phased array radar suite, but a comprehensive package of engineering changes and maintenance tasks including the ability to embark the MRH90 helicopter.

The most significant visual change is the addition of the aft radar mast cupola to house the phased array radar.

Having verified propulsion plant safety and operability, the ship sailed to begin sea trials to test and validate the comprehensive upgrade.

Sailing represents the culmination of months of work by the integrated project team and ship’s company to re-activate the vessel, which was de-crewed during the docking phase of the activity.

The Sustainment Director of the Anzac Systems Program Office (ASPO), CMDR Cassandra Ryan, said the milestone was a credit to both the crew and the project team.

“It is exciting to see each ship depart the program and return to service equipped with such impres-

Ballarat completes upgrade

sive capability,” CMDR Ryan said. Significant coordination was required to bring the vessel back into service.

The upgrade program is man-aged by the ASPO and involves industry partners including BAE

Systems, NSM, Saab, and multiple sub-contractors.

“During the installation of the upgraded combat system, almost 30km of cable was installed, and the project has recently surpassed two million

hours on task,” CMDR Ryan said.“The project represents a signifi-

cant upgrade to the capability, and is one of the major projects currently under delivery within the fleet.”

More than halfway through the

whole-of-class upgrade, HMA Ships Parramatta and Toowoomba are on the dry dock in the BAE yard at Henderson, Western Australia.

HMAS Stuart will enter the pro-gram in May.

HMAS Ballarat transits through Cockburn Sound in Western Australia on the way to Fleet

Base West. Photo: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko

www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016 1312 CENTRE

ON March 1, 1967, the RAN hoisted its new white ensign for the first time. Two years before, Member for Batman S.J. Benson, while speaking on the naval esti-mates, argued Australia should have its own, distinctive white ensign. His point was that Australian ships were engaged in a war flying the ensign of another Navy. The Minister for the Navy informed the House, on the same day, that the Navy was already looking at possible variants of the white ensign which would carry a distinctly Australian appearance. The Chief of Naval Staff, VADM Alan McNicoll, subsequently sought the views of other members of the Naval Board and his senior officers. The board decided to recommend to the Government “that the RAN should have its own unique white

ensign”. The ensign was described as being a “white flag with the Union Flag in the upper canton at the hoist with six blue stars positioned as in the Australian flag”. The Minister for the Navy, Sir Fred Chaney, informed the Prime Minister of the board’s decision and the formal approval of Queen Elizabeth II was requested. Royal assent to the new ensign was granted on November 7, 1966.The formal announcement of the new ensign was made by the Prime Minister on December 23, 1966. Originally it was intended to introduce the new ensign on May 1, 1967, but this was subsequent-ly amended to March 1, 1967, Navy’s birthday.

STORY BEHIND THE WHITE ENSIGN

STEPPING OUT

THIS morning the Navy’s largest Australian white ensign is flying from the Flagstaff at Regatta Point in Canberra, because the RAN is celebrating its birth-

day at sea, in our shore establishments, and here in the nation’s capital.

Today is the 115th anniversary of the creation of the Navy by the Federal Parliament on March 1, 1901.

The legislation that enabled the Commonwealth Naval Force and the Commonwealth Military Forces, as defined in the constitution, was passed into law just eight weeks after the Federation had been proclaimed on January 1, 1901.

This year when the re-capitalisation of the fleet is front and centre in our planning, it is worth reflecting on our ori-gins and on the challenges that attended the building of the First Fleet Unit just over a century ago.

In 1901, the new-born Commonwealth inherited a small collection of obsolescent warships which the Australian colonies had bought for local defence.

They were ready for disposal, not for battle! Men of vision, led by Prime Minister Alfred Deakin and

CAPT William Creswell campaigned, against considerable opposition, for the newly federated nation to have its own navy, the first for any of the King’s dominions.

This would be a navy under the command of the Australian Government. Its task was to defend Australia, its trade and cities and also be available to assist the Imperial Fleet in the Indo Pacific when required.

This was to be a small but well-balanced and capable fleet to justify its new title: Royal Australian Navy, approved in 1911 by the sovereign.

The bestowal of the title ‘Royal’ reflected the progress made in the previous 10 years in turning that collection of inherited vessels into a true fighting service able to project power at sea.

Perhaps as important in hindsight, however, was that the bringing to life of the new navy marked Australia’s first major step towards nationhood on the world stage.

This arose from a recognition that defence of Australia’s national interests could no longer be consigned to others. The decision to acquire a sea-going navy represented an assumption of national obligation of momentous proportion.

In just over a decade, by clear planning, foresight and the commitment of significant capital, the Commonwealth acquired and manned a fleet which in 1914 deterred an attack on Australia’s maritime trade and cities by the Kaiser’s powerful East Asia Squadron based in China.

Detailed war plans existed to attack Australia’s ship-ping and sever the commercial and communication links between Britain and Australia and New Zealand.

Until Australia acquired a modern well-armed battle cruiser and escort ships, Imperial Germany was a direct threat to Australia and her interests.

In August 1914 it was RAN ships which were available as a powerful instrument of state, and when war came they were, ‘in all respects ready’.

When the new RAN cruiser HMAS Sydney went into

action in November 1914 at Cocos Islands, she defeated her opponent, SMS Emden, and in doing so defended thousands of young Anzacs in their vulnerable troopships heading for the Middle East.

There is a saying that ‘The past is another country – they do things differently there’. I believe that is true. The past can only ever be a distant mirror and should not be expected to provide an accurate reflection of our times, far less a blueprint for the future.

Consequently, I do not draw a direct parallel between the international circumstances which prevailed at the birth of Australia’s Navy, at the start of the 20th century, and those which pertain today. That would be simplistic.

However, I do draw from the history of our Navy’s ori-gins the general principle that a maritime nation that seeks to safeguard peace and maintain its freedom of action at sea, must have a Fleet which is fit for purpose, mod-ern, and ‘in all respects ready’ for the missions which the Government and people of Australia may require of it.

In every generation we need men and women of stature and vision who, like Alfred Deakin and William Creswell, understand not only why a modern fleet is needed to pre-serve national security, but are planning the fleet that will be needed decades hence.

The future fleet that Australia will start building this dec-ade will be a visionary project of national significance.

When the Navy celebrates its 125th birthday, a decade from today, my successor as Chief of Navy will be leading a more capable service within an enhanced and more inte-grated ADF.

Honour, honesty, courage integrity and loyalty are their values.

It is their dedication to duty and their resolution in the face of danger which is the golden thread which runs through our 115-year naval story.

Here, before our Navy’s memorial, in the heart of our capital city, on this ceremonial parade, we remember those sailors for whom that thread turned from gold to crimson as

they lost their lives in service to Australia, their homeland, their shipmates, the Navy and the just cause it was entrust-ed to defend.

We particularly remember that it was on this day in 1942 that CAPT Hector Waller and the ship’s company of the light cruiser HMAS Perth, in company with the USS Houston, were engaged against overwhelming odds in the Battle of Sunda Strait.

Three hundred and fifty men, including Waller, still lie with their ship, and of the 328 who survived only 214 came home from captivity.

On this anniversary each year, when we recall our ori-gins and celebrate Navy’s birthday, we will remember all our navy people who lost their lives on duty, wherever they lie, alone or with their ships, across the seas and oceans of the world.

They are not forgotten and they never will be because their legacy is our life-long liberty.

Near and far, on land and at sea, personnel celebrate Navy’s 115th birthday.

This is an edited extract of CN VADM Tim Barrett’s speech on March 1 to mark the 115th anniversary of the creation of the Australian Navy‘‘

‘‘

HMAS Coonawarra’s ship’s company marks the birthday in a uniquely tropical ‘only-in-Darwin’ way – with a birthday watermelon.

THE Navy has celebrated 115 years of continuous operations since incep-tion in 1901. Navy personnel attended birthday celebrations at sea and on

shore establishments around the world on March 1.

In recognition of the significant mile-stone, the Navy’s flag, the Australian White Ensign, replaced the Australian national flag on the Canadian flagpole at Regatta Point in Canberra between 8am and sunset.

Leading commemorations, CN VADM Tim Barrett highlighted the proud tradition of service of the modern Navy as among one of the most capable in the world.

“On any given day, more than 700 Navy personnel are assigned to operations in Australian and international waters alongside those others who continue training to fight and win at sea,” VADM Barrett said.

The Navy was initially known as the Commonwealth Naval Force on establishment on March 1, 1901, and was the first independ-ent Navy in the Commonwealth.

In 1911, the fleet was renamed the Royal Australian Navy and since that time has prov-en its ability to defend Australia and its inter-ests and contribute to maritime security in the region.

VADM Barrett addressed a Navy memo-rial service on Anzac Parade to remember all Navy personnel who have lost their lives on duty, wherever they lie alone or with their ships, across the seas and oceans of the world.

“Today is a day for our personnel and the nation to look back on our proud history, remember those lost and wounded in service of their nation and cast our eyes forward to a bright future.

“Our new capabilities, talented personnel and committed public service staff are the critical bits and pieces that come together each day to safeguard the peace of our mari-time nation,” VADM Barrett said.

HMAS Darwin was in the Middle East on the birthday conducting anti-drug traffick-ing and maritime security patrols as part of the 31-nation CMF on Operation Manitou. Despite the ship’s high operational tempo, sailors and officers took the time to reflect on

115 years of continuous operations.Tradition and the challenges of being on

board an Australian warship are the things that drive Darwin sailor AB Marcelle Hare. “The RAN has a rich tradition of getting the job done despite the odds or difficulties of serving at sea,” he said. “I am very proud to be a part of that.”

Darwin will continue on Operation Manitou until she is relieved mid this year.

HMAS Coonawarra’s company marked the occasion in a uniquely tropical ‘only-in-Darwin’ way, with a birthday watermelon. The ship’s company of the Navy’s busiest operational base was also joined by personnel from its 12 resident units in giving the service three cheers to celebrate.

“We’re just a little bit different here in Darwin, so we thought a ceremonial water-melon would better reflect our tropical lifestyle,” said Coonawarra’s WO Andrew Templeton.

“Also, we’re really focused on health and weight-loss at the moment, because so many of us are taking part in the Coonawarra Biggest Loser challenge.”

The crew of HMAS Melbourne uses spent 76mm shells to mark the occasion. Photo: ABIS Bonny Gassner

ABCSO Jack Williams and ABET Tom Hill, who both share their birthday with the Navy, cut a cake with CO HMAS Canberra CAPT Chris Smith two days before Navy’s birthday as the crew prepares to depart for cyclone-ravaged Fiji. Photo: LSIS Helen Frank

The Australian White Ensign replaces the

Australian national flag on the Canadian

flagpole at Regatta Point, Canberra, for the day on March 1.

Photo: POIS Phil Cullinan

The RAN Band performs for the 115th birthday service at the Navy Memorial held in Canberra. Photo: POIS Phil Cullinan

14 GANGWAY www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016

The School of Air Warfare, formerly the School of Air Navigation, marked its 70th anniversary in February with its renaming to No. 1 Flight Training School (1FTS) as part of the redevelopment of RAAF Base East Sale as an Officer Aviation Academy. During the Trooping of the Queen’s Colour, above, reviewing officer AVM Gavin Turnbull and host officer CO 1FTS WGCDR Craig Stallard, inspect staff and students of the RAAF, RNZAF and RAN on parade. The school is responsible for the initial training of Aviation Warfare Officers (AvWO), inducting trainees into the aviation workforce and the basic conduct of maritime aviation operations. The school also provides instructor training to AvWOs and training for RAAF Air Combat Officers. The school has produced many distinguished graduates, including CN VADM Tim Barrett. At right are Colour bearer FLTLT Nathan Broome with Colour guards POA Mitchell Rogers and SGT Michael Gould. Photos: POIS Rick Prideaux

CPOCSM Lex Davison recites the naval prayer at a ceremony held on board HMAS Perth on February 29 to mark the 74th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Perth I and USS Houston II. Photo: ABIS Richard Cordell

THE Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) is proving to be a popular benefit for service personnel with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs recently processing the 20,000th subsidy transaction.

DHOAS replaced the Defence Home Owner Scheme (DHOS) in July 2008 and has attracted a strong following – more than $450 million in subsidy has been paid out under the scheme.

Director-General Navy People CDRE Michele Miller said DHOAS provided substantial assistance to both permanent and reserve sailors.

“The DHOAS certainly encour-

ages Navy people to think more actively about home ownership and encourages them to fully use their subsidy,” CDRE Miller said.

“So, in that sense, it serves as another, very welcome, condition of service.”

The aim of the scheme is to improve ADF retention rates, by making home ownership easier for members in today’s competitive housing market. Members are given an incentive to remain in the ADF through access to progressively higher levels of subsidy assistance the longer they serve.

Since 2008, Defence and DVA representatives have visited more than 50 Defence bases across

Australia to inform members about the scheme. These presentations can still be provided upon request.

The DHOAS is a substantial ben-efit for service personnel but entitle-ments can be affected by changing circumstances. It is important that DVA is informed of any change in circumstances as soon they occur. If changes are not reported in a timely manner, debts can accrue quite quickly. A Change of Circumstances form is available on the DHOAS website at www.dhoas.gov.au.

Further information can be accessed on the DHOAS website or by speaking with a DHOAS consultant on 1300 4 DHOAS (1300 434 627).

15PERSONNELMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

SGT Dave Morley

A SURGE in interest in donat-ing historical items, includ-ing the occasional gun, to the Australian War Memorial (AWM) has forced it to improve the "donation experi-ence".

Head Collection Services MAJGEN Brian Dawson (retd) said a renewed interest in Australia’s military history meant as many as 50,000 items a year were being offered for donation.

“As a result the AWM is selective about what it collects,” he said.

“In order to fully appraise and care for these items in a timely manner, we have intro-duced new procedures to man-age offers of donation.”

According to MAJGEN Dawson, people have turned up unannounced at the front doors of the memorial with all manner of goods they wished to donate including, on occasions, guns.

“We encourage people who wish to donate items to first make contact using the online offer form on the AWM’s dona-tions web page,” he said.

“This provides a step-by-step process for donors and gathers all the information the AWM needs to make a compre-hensive appraisal.

“Once a form is submitted, a staff member will get in touch to discuss the next stage of the donation process.”

To access the donation application form, go to: www.awm.gov.au/col-lection/donations

Donation scheme at memorial goes online

CAPT Jim Parsons, hands over artefacts found at a grave site of an unknown sailor to AWM Assistant Registrar Georgia Cunningham. Photo: WOPH Steve Dent

Singh Garewal

FROM March 1, the existing warranty scheme for removal-related loss or dam-age to domestic household furniture and effects will change.

Defence is substituting the existing "like-for-like" replacement cover with a new replacement cover for items which fall within predefined categories and age limits.

The Assistant Secretary People, Policy and Employment Conditions, John Geering, said this change was being made based on feedback received from Defence members and would provide members with improved cover where an item was lost or damaged as a result of a removal-related activity.

"Defence has sought for some time to establish a cost-effective option for updat-ing warranty arrangements to more close-ly align with insurance coverage now more readily available," Mr Geering said.

"The existing warranty coverage has

been a source of concern for members who decide to purchase a new replace-ment item following a claim for loss or damage and who feel they have incurred additional expenses during a removal through no fault of their own."

In cases where more than minor damage to an item has occurred, Toll Transitions will assess if repair of the old item is economical. If it is not, Toll Transitions will supply ADF members with a new replacement item.

The existing like-for-like replacement cover or compensation will continue to apply to items which fall outside the spec-ified age limits.

The change will apply to all con-signments moved on and from March 1, including consignments moved from storage.

Further information on the changed Toll Transitions warranty scheme is available on the Toll Transitions website at www.tolltransi-tions.com.au/defence.

Encouraging home owners

Like-for-like change to warranty scheme

Prayer dayTHE Military Christian Fellowship (MCF) of Australia is hosting a national day of prayer on March 19. For Canberra-based personnel, a prayer session will be conducted in the Duntroon chapel from 10am. A light lunch will be served. Outside Canberra, soldiers are encouraged to meet with chaplains and other Defence Christians to pray for Defence leaders, deployed service personnel and their families, and for those who are readjusting returning from operations. For more

information, contact the MCF at mcf.office@defence.gov.au or visit www.mcf-a.org.au

Earth hourDEFENCE will take part in Earth Hour on March 19. Across 18 sites studied in the 2015 Earth Hour, Defence saw an energy saving of 3.3 per cent. Members are encouraged to continue using energy efficiently by turning off computer monitors, unplugging phone chargers and turning off non-essential appliances and equipment.

IN BRIEF

New replacement cover came into effect on March 1.

DHOAS has been helping service personnel open the door to their own homes since 2008.

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DEFENCE One (D1) will deliver a whole-of-Defence system to provide an enterprise approach to the manage-ment of personnel information and to deliver better ena-bling services in the areas of pay, leave and other func-tions for all ADF and APS members.

Assistant Secretary Personnel Systems Modernisation Brenton Searle said while project experienced some unexpected issues with the build of the new system in 2015, the project had worked with stakeholders to resolve these.

“Together, we’ve designed workable business solutions and delivered some very positive outcomes,” he said.

“In 2015, the project successfully achieved a number of key milestones in the extensive testing of the new system, and in the finalisation of training materials in readiness for implementa-tion activities.

“The project has performed a large number of test scenarios to ensure members’ pay and entitlements are correctly calcu-lated in line with current policy, and within the required time frame.

“The first rounds of testing have been invaluable in confirm-ing the validity of the new system’s design.”

Pay and administration transactors from across the services and Defence People Group have worked tirelessly to ensure the system can handle payroll and leave tasks in real-world scenarios.

“We have received positive feedback on the new functional-ity in the system from many transactors who will use D1,” Mr Searle said.

“This year, the project will remain focused on working with key stakeholders to complete system testing and position the organisation for implementation.

“The project will also continue to collaborate with stake-holders to ensure the communication and training approach is practical and meets the needs of the transactors who will use D1 when it goes live.”

Keep up to date with the status of the project by visiting the ‘latest news section’ on the Defence One website at http://ciogintranet.defence.gov.au/organisation/HRDD/PSMB/DefenceOne/Pages/default.aspx

Streamlining services

This year Defence One will work with stakeholders to complete system testing and position Defence for implementation. Photo: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

MEDIBANK Health Solutions (MHS) will continue to provide important health services to ADF personnel for a further two years, following the extension of its current contract.

After a competitive tender process in 2012 Defence signed a $1.3 billion contract with MHS to deliver a comprehensive suite of health services to ADF personnel across Australia.

This contract sees MHS provide critical services including on-base health support, pathology, imaging and radiology and a 24-hour ADF national health hotline.

The agreement with MHS was for an initial four-year-and-four-month term ending on October 31. The agreement also contained a further two-year extension option.

Commander Joint Health AVM Tracy Smart said Defence’s highest priority was the health and wellbe-ing of its personnel.

“Through this extension our servicemen and women will con-tinue to receive seamless high quality health care,” she said.

“This extension will also assist Defence to gain further efficien-cies by streamlining the delivery of health services and optimising current services through further innovation and technology.”

The agreement is due to expire on October 31, 2018.

Health contract continues

16 PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016

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FROM Radar Plotter (RP) to Navy copper, LCDR Bob Dokter reflected on a wealth of experience with almost 42

years’ service.LCDR Dokter bowed out of full-

time service after reaching compulsory retirement age on February 8.

Enlisting on March 4, 1974, as an RP, LCDR Dokter received his hook in 1977 and then transferred to the Naval Police in 1980.

By 1995 he had reached the rank of WO and in 1997 commissioned as a LEUT NPC, and finally, was promoted to LCDR in 2007.

LCDR Dokter served in HMA Ships Duchess and Perth, and deployed to Timor Leste in 2006, and both Afghanistan and UAE in 2008.

LCDR Dokter said he never intend-ed serving for so long when he first enlisted.

“I found the diversity I have been given throughout my career is what has kept me in,” he said. “I’ve been lucky to have had the opportunity to jump in and out of both category and primary qualification [PQ].

“I have met so many different peo-ple and been given so many different experiences in life; why would you leave?”

At a small ceremony in his Russell office, DCN RADM Mike Van Balen thanked LCDR Dokter for his service.

“Forty two years is an outstanding feat,” he said. “At the moment there are

From plotter to top copper

no more than a handful of people serv-ing who can claim to have gone beyond 40 years of service, so this is an out-standing achievement.

“I wish you well in your retire-ment. You’ll always be part of the Navy family.”

LCDR Dokter said he had seen many changes in his time.

“Aircraft incident investigation, from a criminality aspect, was some-thing new for us and the investigative work we did with the Black Hawk crash on HMAS Kanimbla in 2006 is

something of which I am proud,” he said.

“The biggest change I have seen is the diversity in female roles within Navy. When I joined up we had the WRANs but they never went to sea.

“Now women in the Navy can do

Accompanied by his wife Sandra, LCDR Bob Dokter is presented with an appreciation of service medal by DCN RADM Mike Van Balen at a ceremony in Russell. Photo: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

After more than 40 years in the Navy, LCDR Bob Dokter looks back on a diverse career, LSIS Jayson Tufrey reports.

whatever they want to do and I think that is the biggest step forward we have made.”

LCDR Dokter is planning on doing reserve time in his PQ. As a specialised security expert he will be providing advice to the Director of Policing and Security – Navy.

His advice for anyone just starting their journey in Navy is to keep an open mind.

“You don’t have to have the tunnel vision of being locked into your own category,” he said.

“While your category is important in its role, if you think broadly Navy first, then your rate or PQ second, you may see a whole different world open up.”

Inspired to join the Navy by his older brother, LCDR Dokter acknowl-edged he couldn’t have done it without the love and support of his wife Sandra.

“Sandra has been with me every step of the way,” he said.

“We met on my first night’s leave from recruit school, back when you had to wear uniform ashore, and she stole my heart.”

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PT deemed fit for awardThe life of a PT isn’t all about weight

lifting, mirrors and cardio workouts. There’s a lot of work that goes into how to improve not just a person’s

quality of life through fitness, but also in mak-ing sure facilities and training are top line.

CPOPT Dion McCrabb, at HMAS Cerberus, was awarded a Navy silver level commendation for his tireless work in ensuring the facilities at the Navy’s largest training base are the best they can be.

Being a triservice establishment, the Cerberus population averages about 1800 per-sonnel as they attend various training courses. With that many users, it’s especially important that the equipment, facilities and staff are fully suited to the unique needs of Defence.

CPO McCrabb said that being a PT had taught him that being a leader doesn’t guaran-tee success without the support of a great team. He said his success was a result of the efforts of his staff – both past and present.

“I’m originally from Warnambool, but I have to say the most challenging aspect of this position can be planning and coordinating events around Melbourne weather,” he said.

“Trying to plan around four seasons in a day, for more than 500 people at a time, means considering everything and really relying on your staff to adapt along with you.

“My most rewarding experiences here have been seeing major infrastructure investment and purchasing high-end training equipment for all of Cerberus to use – now and long into the future,” CPO McCrabb said.

XO of HMAS Cerberus CMDR Melanie Verho presents CPOPT Dion McCrabb with a silver commendation. Photo: LSIS Nina Fogliani

In accepting an award for his mentoring and leadership, CPOPT Dion McCrabb made a point of acknowledging his support team, writes SBLT Katherine Mulheron.

Since taking charge as the Cerberus Sports Officer, CPO McCrabb said one of the suc-cesses his department had achieved was the complete refit of the weights room, including an outstanding audio visual upgrade.

However, he said the most memorable was about to occur – the opening of the Cerberus obstacle course.

CPO McCrabb’s commendation acknowl-edged his outstanding mentoring and leader-ship of PT staff, his contributions towards ensuring improvements to new facilities, as well as initiating and planning community engagement programs for organisations such as the Victoria Police, the Australian Football League and a wide of youth and indigenous groups.

‘‘– CPOPT Dion McCrabb

My most rewarding experiences here have been seeing major infrastructure investment.

19FEATURESMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

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21TRAININGMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

Natalie Staples

PERSONNEL from AUSCDT 1 spent a week conducting live explosive dem-olitions on land and below the water last month, as part of training at the Orchard Hills range.

About 60 divers completed the EOD training, which was held to refresh their skills in the application of in-service explosive and EOD tools.

OIC of the training POCD Travers Smith said it was important all divers were competent in this core job requirement.

“We primarily use plastic explo-sives with electric and non-electric detonators, fired either manually or with remote actuated firing devices,” PO Travers said.

He said all divers, no matter wheth-er they specialised in mine counter measures, underwater damage repair, EOD, or maritime explosive ordnance disposal, needed these baseline skills.

“I was impressed with how every-one performed. Every diver hit the tar-get of cutting a fuse within one second accuracy.

“During the underwater serials, the guys had to place underwater explo-sive charges to simulate either neu-tralising a mine or underwater ord-nance disposal in zero visibility. The dam was pitch black – it was basi-

LT Charity Edgar, US Army

A CLEARANCE diver has played his part in the successful training of 38 EOD technicians for the Afghan National Police (ANP).

POCD Kevin Paul serves as the chief adviser on counter-IED to Central Training Centre-Kabul for the Coalition Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan.

Deployed as part of Operation Highroad, he is responsible for train-ing, advising and assisting ANP lead-ership on disposal and counter-IED training.

He said students learned how to counter conventional unexploded ordnance, including rockets, artillery rounds and landmines before graduat-ing in a ceremony at the training centre in Kabul.

“The students who make it through the initial stages of training genuinely want to be there,” PO Paul said. “They get qualified and get out to their post-ing location so they can do their part in making Afghanistan a safer place.”

Divers on target with charges

EOD tech makes a difference in Kabul

Hayat Ullah, a third sergeant from Kandahar who has served in the ANP for the past 10 years, is one of the new EOD graduates.

“I appreciate my training and advisers from this course. EOD may be dangerous, but with this training I can defeat them [unexploded ord-nance],” Sergeant Ullah said.

He said he planned to take a course on robot maintenance and repair to further his ability to counter enemy tactics.

cally mud,” PO Travers said. He said five weeks of intensive training at Pittwater would begin this month “where we’ll work up to full mission profiles.

“The first phase will be assessing the guys on bomb suits, EOD tools, weapons and procedures,” he said.

“We then move into small two-hour testing before culminating in full mission profiles held over a number of days, responding to tacti-cal scenarios built by command and headquarters.

“This ensures everyone is unit ready.”

Members of the Afghan National Police stand to be recognised during their graduation from the EOD course in Kabul. Photo: LT Charity Edgar

PO Kevin Paul advises Afghan EOD techs in Mazar-e-Sharif.

Members of Clearance Diving Team 1 placing underwater explosive charges during training at the Orchard Hills range.

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In the final of a two-part series, ADF Triathlon Club coach POCIS Michael Baruch reveals the best way to approach the cycle and run.

Cycling in triathlonsCYCLING is the longest leg of a triath-lon and should take up 50 to 60 per cent of your weekly training plan.

It is not the expensive bike that will win you the race, it is how you ride it. Because of its durability and light weight, carbon fibre is the most popular material used on bikes. However, if you want to save on costs, a half aluminium and half carbon-fibre bike will do the trick.

Road bikes are ideal for triathlon or road cycling. If you’re engaging in a enticer triathlon, a cheap mountain bike will do.

The main bike accessories I recom-mend are a helmet, front and rear lights, bicycle shoes, a good set of bike pants with gel inserts or a good quality thick padding for that extra comfort, and a puncture kit.

Ensure your bike has at least two water bottle holders and a bike computer, preferably wireless, which can display distance, speed and RPMs.

At a minumim, dedicate a one-hour session to speed, a one-hour session to hills, a one-to-three-hour session to the brick. The brick is where you run and cycle during the same workout.

Triathlon and cycling clubs run these types of sessions, with the exception of the brick in a cycling club. They also pro-vide lessons on how to ride in a group.

Running in triathlonsTHE run is the final leg of a triathlon. It makes up about 30 to 40 per cent of the race and therefore should make up about 30 to 40 per cent of your weekly training plan.

The run component has the most impact on your body.

A good, comfortable and supportive pair of shoes will help prevent injury.

A warm-up is vital before running. It should consist of a light five-to-10 min-ute jog followed by about 15-20 minute dynamic stretching – a series of drills activating muscle fibres in the same way running does.

The inclusion of a dynamic warm-up will ensure your muscles are ready to

accept the full benefit of the run and that you’re capable of finishing it injury free.

The time of the warm-up will vary depending on your fitness level, environ-ment and the intensity of the session.

Test whether or not your workout was sufficient by gauging the effort required. If the first repetition was harder than the second, your warm-up was insufficient.

Conducting a cool-down is just as important as the warm-up. The cool-down gradually returns the body to a state of rest, making it easier for it to restore and adapt to training stresses.

Start the cool-down with a light five-to-10 minute jog, followed by a series of stretches held for around 20 seconds each. Conduct each stretch twice.

Incorporate at least two aerobic thresh-olds, one lactate tolerance and one fartlek session in your weekly training plan.

A final tip – elastic laces make your transition to the run quicker. Use your elastic laces on your aerobic threshold runs in the final six to eight weeks of your training plan.

This advice is generic and aimed at a beginner triathlete.

The ADF Triathlon Club is the official multisport club for Defence. The club offers free membership to all ADF mem-bers. By joining you will have access to funding assistance for sanctioned events.

For more information, email michael.baruch@defence.gov.au or visit: http://adftc.asn.au, bikeexchange.com.au and www.triathlon.org.au.

• Aerobic threshold: easiest runs, designed for building endurance.

• Lactose tolerance: hardest runs, floods muscles with excess lactate, which increases body’s tolerance to lactate to prevent ‘hit-ting the wall’.

• Fartlek: alternate harder running efforts with easier recovery paces during longer runs – a quick way to improve fitness.

RUNNING TRAINING

Being prepared takes a lot of the stress out of competing in triathlons. Photo: CPL Bill Solomou

Inset: ADF Triathlon Club coach POCIS Michael Baruch. Photo: ABIS Kayla Hayes

Tri tips for novices

22 HEALTH www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS March 10, 2016

For information and nomination forms, head to the ADFIHASharePoint page (link: http://caas/Areas/CORP/VCDF/ADSC/ADFIHA/SitePages/Home.aspx ) Or contact the ADFIHA viaemail at ADF.IceHockey@defence.gov.au.

The Australian Defence Force Ice HockeyAssociation is encouraging the participation ofwomen in Ice Hockey by conducting a developmentcamp 26 Mar – 1 Apr 2016. The camp is aimed atADF and reserve women who are interest in orcurrently play Ice Hockey, catering to all skill levels.

Held at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium inNewcastle, the camp will consist of on and office training, with guest coaching from Ms DebbieStrome (Player Development and TechnicalSkating Director for Ice Hockey Australia).

CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS

23SPORTMarch 10, 2016 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

LSIS Jayson Tufrey

MORE than 25 ADF Triathlon Club (ADFTC) members competed in the Huskisson Triathlon festival during the weekend of February 20-21.

The Saturday sprint events were divided into women’s and men’s competitions comprising more than 600 competitors in each for the 750m triangular swim, 20km out-and-back cycle and 5km out-and-back seashore run.

A team of five Navy members – LCDR Joanne Haynes, LEUT Natalie Davies, CPOCIS Gary Swanton, PONPC Nathan Dwyer and LSNPC Rebecca Matthews – competed in the sprint distance on the Saturday.

The competitive field included seven potential Olympians from Australia and Canada.

LEUT Davies finished 10th female overall and fifth in the 25-29 age category behind four profession-al athletes in a time of 1hr 13min.

CPO Swanton had a solid race as well finishing 14th in the 55-59 age category in a time of 1:30.

Originally scheduled to race in the long-course event held on Sunday, CPO Swanton said he had to settle for the sprint distance event on the Saturday because of CPO promotion course commitments.

“I find the sprint distance a bit too short and quick for me, but it was good to get out and treat it like a training session,” he said.

“The swim leg was going okay until I copped a whack to the head by another competitor, losing my goggles, which I was able to retrieve and continue the swim.

“We had perfect conditions for the 20km bike leg, which made its way out of Huskisson for 10km before returning for the run leg.

“The 5km run leg was along the beach foreshore with many locals providing their vocal support to all competitors. Overall I was happy with the race and it was fantastic to see so many other ADFTC mem-bers out there racing as well.”

CPO Swanton said he would now focus on his running in the lead up to his next race.

“My local season in Victoria is all but over, so I am switching to run-only mode and will take on a few half-marathon events hope-fully culminating in the Melbourne Marathon in October.

“The next triathlon event for me will be the Noosa Olympic Triathlon on the last weekend in October.

LCDR Haynes, PO Dwyer, and LS Matthews all competed in the 35-39 category and finished in 1:21, 1:31 and 1:39 respectively.

The Huskisson Long Course event held on Sunday is viewed as a classic in Australian races, compris-ing a scenic 2km swim, 83km cycle and 20km run.

A strong ADFTC team was matched in a competitive field.

POIS Phil Cullinan

The RAN bounced back from a rough start for a four-wicket victory against the touring British Army Royal Artillery Cricket Club (BARACC).

The Twenty20 match was hosted at HMAS Harman on February 12 after the Navy accepted the Army’s challenge as they mark the 300th anniversary of the Royal Regiment of Artillery with a world tour of the Captain-General’s Baton.

Navy sent the Gunners into bat where the tourists plied on 129 runs after reaching 20 overs in the face of a spirited Navy field that kept runs to a minimum.

In response, the Navy was in early trouble with the Gunners taking early wickets before a middle-order fight-back saw the home side take the win at the end of the 18th over.

LCDR Richard Austin said the match came about through personal contacts between the Navy and Artillery clubs.

“A request was sent out to all Navy cricketers and also a wider audience to garner interest for games in Canberra and Sydney,” LCDR Austin said.

“Fortunately, we were able to pull together two squads for the games and it was great to come away with a win after the first match.

“An interesting side note is one of the earliest games played by the Royal Artillery Cricket Club was against an I Zingari side in the UK and the RAN mid-week cricket competition was the I Zingari Shield.”

POCSS Eric Mellberg said the game was played in a good spirit after a pass-

ing thunderstorm earlier in the day. “It was an excellent opportunity to rep-resent Navy, and to walk away with a victory is always satisfying against the Poms,” he said.

BRIG Jez Bennett said he enjoyed the camaraderie between the Queen’s service teams.

“It has been great being here in Canberra and it is especially signifi-cant for us all remembering it has been 100 years since Gallipoli and the other campaigns of WWII in which we fought alongside the Australian Forces,” BRIG Bennett said.

“We have been extremely well looked after in Canberra, really enjoyed visiting RMC Duntroon, and are head-ing off to Sydney with the Captain -General’s Baton for our last few games.

“We will then hand it on to our Royal Artillery rugby colleagues for their New Zealand and Fiji leg.”

The Royal Regiment of Artillery is celebrating its 300th anniversary by conducting a west-to-east circumnaviga-tion of the globe. They started at their birthplace in Woolwich, UK, in mid-2015, and will finish at their Regimental home in Larkhill, UK.

The circumnavigation is certainly consistent with the regiment’s motto “Ubique” (everywhere).

A message of loyal greetings to Queen Elizabeth II, who is the Captain-General, has been placed inside the baton for the circumnavigation, which is travelling via the countries of the Commonwealth and principal allies.

The baton will be presented to Queen Elizabeth upon its return to the UK.

Navy takes on top triathletes

The swim was a zigzag course in Jervis Bay followed by a three-lap bike course, with the first 9km a fairly steep uphill towards Nowra, while the two-lap run course fol-lowed the undulating seaside path.

Full-time physiotherapist at HMAS Kuttabul and Navy reservist ABCD Ron Postma, of Dive Team 5, started in the Premium Mates Wave directly after the professional athletes and came 11th in the wave in a time of 4:43.52.

AB Postma said he had been a member of ADFTC for only the past year, but this was his fourth triathlon.

I was quite happy with how my event went; I had a better-than-average swim although I’m not a great swimmer,” he said.

“I felt I was a little bit slow in the cycle transition, but had a pretty good ride and tried to stick to the particular speed I had in mind to ensure I wasn’t going to burn out on the run, which worked really well.

“I stuck to my plan fairly well. I would have liked to run 4.30 splits but it was getting pretty hot so I had to slow it down a bit, and ended up doing 4.38 per km.”

AB Postma said his highlight

was the relief he felt the moment he transitioned into the run and felt he had the legs to go on.

“I was worried about what hap-pened in a previous race where I was about 8-10km into this half-marathon and it all fell apart,” he said.

“I ran too fast in the first bit, I spent too much energy on the bike so I really struggled with the last 12km – it was a really uncomfort-able hour.

“My plan this time really worked; I ran the second half of that run faster than the first half, which for me was quite important. I basically had a really strong finish.”

POATA Aaron Hannam com-peted in the 35-39 age category and finished in a competitive time of 4:46.49.

PO Hannam was using the race as a build-up for Ironman Cairns, the main ADFTC-supported Ironman Event to be held in June.

CMDR Simon Glastonbury also competed in the 50-55 age category in a time of 5:13.05.

The next ADFTC-supported event is in Mooloolaba on March 13.

Royal artillery team sunk in friendly

SMN Josh Kedwell smashes the ball during a friendly game of cricket while touring Australia as part of the Captain-General’s Baton tour of the world. Photo: POIS Phil Cullinan

LEUT Natalie Davies, of 808SQN, makes her way around the cycling track of the sprint event, during the Huskisson Triathlon.

Participants and spectators of the Huskisson Triathlon Festival gather by the water, for the start of the long course. Photos: LSIS Sarah Williams

Volume 59, No. 3, March 10, 2016

SPORT

ON TRACK IN HUSKINavy athletes excel at triathlon festival

– Page 23

POATA Aaron Hannam, of 723SQN rounds a bend during the cycling leg of the

Huskisson Triathlon Long Course.

Photos: LSIS Sarah Williams