Standing proud in the north Centre

Plan to STEM loss of skills

Page 6

Strategy Launch

Serving Australia with pride

NEWSNAVYVolume 62, No. 15, August 22, 2019

HOBART TAKES

AIM

Missile firings hit the mark

Page 4

HMAS Hobart fires a vertically launched Standard Missile 2, testing the capability before her unit readiness evaluation.Photo: LSIS Christopher Szumlanski

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2 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

CPL Sebastian Beurich

NEW capabilities were the focus of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s visit to Australia from August 6 to 8.

The main purpose of his visit was to re-sign an enhanced partnership agreement, which Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said was a “reinforce-ment of our relationship”.

“We’re saying not only what we have been doing is important but, in light of our discussions, we are look-ing at new areas to work together in the Indo-Pacific,” Senator Reynolds said.

“We are working very closely together, but now we have new chal-lenges we’re both facing and we need to work more closely.”

Mr Stoltenberg said the agree-ment, which was signed on HMAS Hobart’s forecastle, was a framework to be filled with activities as NATO’s

relationship with Australia developed into one of more concrete coopera-tion.

“Australia is a highly valued partner for the alliance and we are extremely grateful for the support you provide to different NATO missions and operations,” Mr Stoltenberg said.

“To be on board this ship, the Hobart, and see the naval capabilities of your country, is something which is of great importance for me and I think it is also the best possible platform to sign the agreement.

“I think it is a reality that Australia and NATO – in Europe, Brussels – we are far apart but we are the closest of partners.”

During his visit, Mr Stoltenberg also met Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne and he attended talks at the Lowy Institute and Australian National University’s Strategic and Defence Studies Centre.

NATO partnership solidified

CO HMAS Hobart CMDR Ryan Gaskin talks with Secretary General of NATO Jens Stoltenberg, Defence Minister Linda Reynolds and COMAUSFLT RADM Jonathan Mead on board Hobart before the re-signing of the partnership agreement. Photo: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill

Members of 2 CDO REGT move out to assault a Sydney ferry in Middle Harbour in rigid-hulled inflatable boats during counter-terrorism training in Sydney. The Mars series of exercises was used to build capacity in its role as Tactical Assault Group-East (TAG-E) for hostage recovery and counter-terrorism. TAG-E is supplemented with Navy clearance divers and Special Operations Engineer Regiment combat engineers. Photo: CPL Sebastian Beurich

A force to be reckoned with

CPL Sebastian Beurich

CUTTING-edge equipment is just part of the first stage of a multi-bil-lion dollar investment in Defence’s special operations capability – includ-ing Navy divers posted to the Tactical Assault Group – approved by govern-ment on August 12.

Project Greyfin will give $3 bil-lion to Special Operations Command over 20 years to ensure it retains the cutting edge of capability and can take advantage of emerging technolo-gies.

After announcing the approval,

Prime Minister Scott Morrison met with Tactical Assault Group-East sail-ors, soldiers and airmen, who dem-onstrated the unit’s counter-terrorism skills.

“We’re ensuring the men and women in our special forces have the equipment and training they need to succeed in their opera-tions,” Mr Morrison said during the announcement.

“Australian special forces under-take complex, highly demanding operations in high-threat environ-ments.

“Global threats will continue

to evolve in ways which threaten Australia’s interests. This funding will ensure our special forces have cutting-edge capabilities to stay ahead of those who might threaten Australia’s interests.”

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said Project Greyfin would ensure special forces and its support ele-ments had the best body armour and weapons, as well as advanced diving, parachuting, roping and climbing sys-tems and other capabilities.

“Our special forces, now more than ever, need to be ready and able to deploy on operations anywhere

in the world, at short notice, and in very uncertain conditions,” Senator Reynolds said.

“This first stage of funding ena-bles our special forces to engage with intelligence, science, technology and innovation organisations to ensure future threats and opportunities are assessed, to make sure we are deliver-ing them the capability they need in the future.”

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3NEWSAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

LEUT Dave Devlin

A DIVERSE career has been a training ground in balance for the new CO of HMAS Harman.

CMDR Amanda Howard assumed command of one of the Navy’s busiest shore establishments on August 2.

The weight of command was passed on from CAPT David Luck, who will take up a role as Commandant of the ADF Training Centre.

Harman, a former naval communication station, is the primary administrative and logistics hub supporting all Navy personnel in the ACT and southern NSW.

CMDR Howard said she was proud to have been selected for command.

“I’m very aware of the responsibility and accountability that comes with command and I look forward to meeting the challenge,” she said.

“I’m fortunate to be taking over from someone who has been so committed to the role and I will continue to build on the fantastic work and achievements that CAPT Luck has established.

“I know I will be very much focused on achieving balance.

“It’s all about the people. My philosophy will be focused on using all available information to make the right decisions, to balance the needs of the service, the individuals and their families.”

Finding balance is not something new to CMDR Howard, who has undertaken a wide range of roles, including fast-roping from helicopters, coordinating logistics to a war zone, drafting strategic policy, project managing major maintenance periods, implementing personnel and logistics reform and materially supporting Navy capability.

As well, CMDR Howard has found time for her busy family of three children and a serving husband.

“It’s pleasing to be able to say that this is increasingly the norm,” CMDR Howard said.

“We should all be able to balance service and family, no matter what the member’s rank, age or family circumstances.

“I’m very thankful the Navy provides access to a vast range of personal and organisational services that have supported me to balance family and career commitments.”

Having joined the Navy in 1996, at 17, CMDR Howard has seen many changes throughout her service and has, at times, assisted in developing some of the policies that have been incorporated into the Total Workforce Model.

“I think the reinvigoration of Navy values and our recent focus on people and communication has shown a major generational shift and positive cultural change for Navy,” she said.

“Our organisation has implemented mature social and professional mechanisms to support our people throughout their careers.

“These progressive opportunities, which are for all Navy personnel, will continue to

be a driving need to support current and future capabilities.”

She advised younger and aspiring leaders who had recently joined the Navy to appreciate their ‘at sea’ experiences.

“It is truly the distinguishing aspect of our job,” she said.

“But don’t just live in the here and now. Think of where you want to be in 10 years and seek out different opportunities to achieve that goal.”

CMDR Howard was surrounded by family – including husband Simon, children Brianna, Erin and Mitchell, and her parents Ray and Lucy – at her transfer-of-command ceremony.

“My entire family have all influenced the person that I am today and I thank them for their love and support,” she said.

Information about Harman, its history and current roles is available on the RAN website: www.navy.gov.au/establish-ments/hmas-harman

Step up a balancing actCMDR Amanda Howard, centre, with the team she now commands at HMAS Harman. Photos: LSIS James McDougall

CAPT David Luck hands over the weight of command to new CO HMAS Harman CMDR Amanda Howard.

– CMDR Amanda Howard CO HMAS Harman

I think the reinvigoration of Navy values and our recent focus on people and communication has shown a major generational shift and positive cultural change.

‘‘

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4 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

THE ADF plans to double the number of Indigenous personnel by 2025 as part of its latest Reconciliation Action Plan.

Defence will also engage with Indigenous traditional owners to com-mission dual names for all its major bases and establishments.

They are two of 61 deliverables contained in the fourth iteration of the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan (D-RAP), which focuses on cultural, recruitment, retainment and procure-ment measures.

The D-RAP 2019-2022 was launched at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra with senior military leaders, public servants and Indigenous members.

CDF GEN Angus Campbell said he was “absolutely committed” to it.

“ We s e e e ff o r t s a c r o s s a wide range of initiatives to bring Indigenous Australians in to service,

Indigenous action plan

and retain their service, within the Navy, Army and Air Force,” GEN Campbell said.

“In service, you can’t see any dif-ference; they’re sailors, they’re sol-diers, they’re airmen and airwomen.

“They’re doing a magnificent job and I want more of them.”

CN VADM Mike Noonan said Navy would benefit from more Indigenous participation.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander Australians have long played, and continue to play, a key role in enhancing Navy’s capability,” he said.

“The D-RAP builds on Navy’s strong focus on the recruitment and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.”

CMDR Heidi Rossendell, from Navy’s Directorate of Diversity and Inclusion, said Navy was commit-ted to being an employer of choice for Indigenous people, in line with Defence’s cultural intent under the Pathway to Change.

“This includes Navy’s Indigenous Development Program, which is a cul-tural engagement program that also assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to reach the required standard to permanently enlist in the ADF,” CMDR Rossendell said.

“ N av y c o n t i n u e s t o b e n -efit greatly from the experience and leadership of our Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander members.” Major D-RAP deliverables include: Increase the ADF Indigenous par-

ticipation rate to 5 per cent by 2025 Commission dual names for all

major bases and establishments by 2022

Develop and implement a Navy community assistance program to assist Indigenous communities

Identify and record sites and objects of cultural significance on Defence estatesThe D-RAP was developed by the

Directorate of Indigenous Affairs in partnership with Defence’s cultural adviser, Norman Laing, and in consul-tation with Indigenous communities, serving members, Defence Groups and Services and Reconciliation Australia.

A copy of the plan can be downloaded at defence.gov.au/APSCareers/Indigenous/DRAP.asp

CDF GEN Angus Campbell at the launch of the 2019-2022 Defence Reconciliation Action Plan at the Australian War Memorial. Photo: Lauren Larking

Video of the launch can be seen at video.navy.gov.au/play/6285

By LEUT Ryan Zerbe

HMAS Hobart has become the first Hobart-class guided missile destroy-er to fire a missile in Australian waters.

Hobart fired an SM-2 Standard Missile in the East Australian Exercise Area against an unmanned target during trials off the coast of NSW, achieving excellent results.

The firing provided an oppor-tunity to prove recent upgrades to the ship’s Aegis combat system and prepare the ship’s company for its upcoming unit readiness evaluation and task group deployment.

CO Hobart CMDR Ryan Gaskin said the successful firing was a sig-nificant step in progressing Navy’s high-end warfighting capability.

“HMAS Hobart is the most sophisticated and lethal warship ever operated by the RAN and this missile firing is a demonstration of how she can fight and win at sea,” CMDR Gaskin said.

“Our advanced sensors provide a real-time recognised maritime pic-ture of the tactical situation com-

The power of the blast from a SM-2 Standard

Missile is evident as it is launched

by HMAS Hobart while

conducting a live fire

exercise off the NSW coast on

August 14.Photo: CPOIS

Cameron Martin

Hobart unleashes her power

– CO HMAS Hobart CMDR Ryan Gaskin

HMAS Hobart is the most sophisticated and lethal warship ever operated by the RAN and this missile firing is a demonstration of how she can fight and win at sea.

‘‘

bined with state-of-the-art weapon systems, giving us a formidable area air defence capability.”

LSET Katie Thorburn was directly responsible for firing the missile and said her training had prepared her well.

“I wasn’t nervous firing the mis-sile as I’d done it before and we’ve trained a lot of hours for this,” LS Thorburn said.

“Last year we trained for over 150 hours for a similar scenario and we’ve done over a week’s worth of training this year for this firing.

“I wasn’t nervous at all – after all of our training, it was all down to muscle memory.”

Hobart’s weapons systems include a Mk41 Vertical Launch System containing SM-2 Standard Missile and Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles, a Mk 45 5-inch main gun, Phalanx Close-In Weapons System, two 25mm Typhoon guns, and MU90 and Mk54 light-weight tor-pedoes for subsurface defence.

Hobart will deploy for the first time in September as the lead ship in a task group deployment.

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5NEWSAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

LEUT Sarah West

THE promotion of LS Ruby Flinders to PO early in August was a special milestone for the four-leg-ged sailor and her proud shipmates.

PO Flinders is posted to West Head Gunnery Range on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, where she serves as the range’s mascot and brings joy to the ship’s company every day.

PO Flinders was born in 2007 and was recruited in 2009 from the RSPCA.

She followed in the footsteps of former mascots Roxy and Rose, continuing a proud tradition of canine service.

As the clever kelpie was deemed skilled to be a mascot – therefore needing no further trade training –she entered at the rank of AB.

She has now given 10 years’ ser-vice, equalling an impressive seven decades in dog years.

When wearing her winter ceremonial uniform, PO Flinders proudly wears the BM rate badge.

Her handler, ABBM Lee Darcy, said Ruby was perfectly suited to her employment category.

“She runs around yelling and barking her head off, like a true boatswains mate,” AB Darcy said.

AB Darcy said PO Flinders was an important member of West Head’s ship’s company.

“We arrive at work in the morn-ing to a wagging tail and it bright-ens everyone’s day,” he said.

“Being in the Navy doesn’t give many of us a chance to have our own pets, so it’s a great feeling to be her handler and have opportuni-ties to spend time bonding with her.”

As the unit’s mascot, PO Flinders is sometimes required to perform ceremonial duties.

“Ruby interacts extremely well with everyone,” AB Darcy said.

“She’s very friendly and knows that when her uniform goes on, she is going to get a lot of photos and attention. She’s more than happy to comply.”

He said looking after PO Flinders was a responsibility he and his shipmates enjoyed.

“Everyone at West Head Gunnery Range has pitched in in one way or another, from making her uniforms to participating in the parades, walks, vet trips and every-thing in between,” he said.

“She lives at the facility and the security staff feed her, while eve-ryone else takes her for walks and other forms of exercise, washes her

and gives her lots of love.” Ruby was promoted by COMAUSFLT RADM Jonathan Mead on parade during Ceremonial Divisions at HMAS Cerberus on August 2.

“She had already been trained to salute and shake hands, but for two weeks before the big day I came in to work early and continued her training with repetitive salut-ing, stepping forward and shaking hands,” AB Darcy said.

“Unfortunately, it was quite cold on the day of Divisions and she was more worried about trying to get to somewhere warm.”

Her proud handler said he would like to see more animals at Defence establishments and units.

“They bring everyone together and boost morale around the work-place, and when you’re having a bad day – spend five minutes with an animal and you feel much bet-ter,” AB Darcy said.

“The trainees that come through Cerberus have left their families and, for 90 per cent of them, their pets too.

“It’s surprising how much you miss just being around animals, so I 100-per-cent believe that all military bases should have some form of animal mascot.”

Recognition for sailors’ best friend

Reviewing officer RADM Jonathan Mead and handler ABBM Lee Darcy promote LS Ruby Flinders at HMAS Cerberus. Photos: POIS Nina Fogliani

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6 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

Strategy to STEM loss of skills CPL Veronica O’Hara

MEETING the challenges of the future is the focus of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Workforce Strategic Vision 2019-2030 released during National Science Week .

The motto of the document – Moving Towards a High-Tech Future for Defence – describes Defence’s desire to keep pace with Australia’s changing strategic environment.

Chief Defence Scientist Tanya Monro said Defence would collabo-rate with industry and educational institutions to build the workforce required to meet Australia’s future defence and national security needs.

“It is estimated that 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations in the world today require people with STEM skills,” Prof Monro said.

“These are the careers of the future and competition for people with these qualifications is fierce.

“If Defence is to develop a high-tech force, it needs a larger and more specialised STEM workforce of both uniformed and civilian personnel.

“It also needs a continuous and reliable pipeline of graduates with STEM backgrounds to attract and retain the best and the brightest in their fields.”

Although Defence already employs 35 per cent of its APS and 50 per cent of permanent ADF per-sonnel in STEM roles, Prof Monro said the plan was to increase them.

The strategy will influence national STEM programs and inspire future generations of Australians to pursue careers within Defence.

“We don’t have as many Australian students taking STEM subjects as we need for those jobs of the future,” Prof Monro said.

“We have too few girls, women and Indigenous Australians taking up maths and science at school. Currently, women represent only 16 per cent of the STEM workforce.

“Until our STEM workforce represents our society as a whole, we won’t be doing the best work we can – we need to harness the talents of all.”

This year, Defence is expand-

ing its STEM cadetship program to 200 cadets, which Prof Monro said would create new opportunities for students to start developing their career at Defence while studying.

“These cadets come to DST while studying and they get to see how the things they’re learning in university are applied in the work-force, which often makes their study feel much more relevant,” Prof Monro said.

“Whatever stage you’re at, we want you to visit our website and see how what you’re studying could contribute to Australia’s future and our defence – to see the ways you can engage and the different on-points for using the skills you’re developing.”

– Chief Defence Scientist Tanya Monro

If Defence is to develop a high-tech force, it needs a

larger and more specialised STEM workforce.

‘‘

High praise for CerberusMORE than 900 sailors, soldiers and airmen and women marched out for Ceremonial Divisions at HMAS Cerberus on August 2.

The assembled ADF members were inspected by the reviewing officer COMAUSFLT RADM Jonathan Mead. RADM Mead said the Cerberus ship’s company epitomised the diversity, knowledge, creativity and passion of the Navy and thanked them for their efforts towards achieving Navy’s mission.

“The way that we do business at sea has changed dramatically in recent years,” RADM Mead said.

“Over one third of the time spent at sea, approximately two and a half thousand days, is being deployed off the Australian station on either operations or exercises.

“This is proof that our presence is being felt worldwide.

“It’s reflective of the ongoing work of everyone here and throughout the Navy, and it’s because of the work you’ve done that I’ve come here today to personally thank you all for the con-tribution you’ve made to the warfighting capability of the Navy.”

LEUT Ryan Zerbe

HMAS Paluma has been formally recognised as the First Lady of the Fleet, assuming the title of longest serving ship in the fleet.

C O M A U S F LT R A D M Jonathan Mead handed a perpetu-al trophy to Paluma’s ship’s com-pany at her home port in Cairns at the end of July to recognise her new title following the decommis-sioning of HMAS Success.

Paluma was commissioned on February 27, 1989, and has sailed 421,000nm, primarily charting the coastal waters to Australia’s north and most recently deploy-ing to Papua New Guinea, where she conducted enhanced regional engagement.

C O Pa l u m a L C D R I a n McKellar said his crew was proud to accept the title.

“We’ve been working hard this year, supporting Navy, collecting military survey data used recently in Exercise Talisman Sabre, as well as engaging with our regional partners in Papua New Guinea, so

to be able to pause to accept the First Lady of the Fleet title was a great feeling,” LCDR McKellar said.

“She isn’t the biggest ship in the fleet, but Paluma has a proud history of service, contributing to the Australian Hydrographic Office’s national nautical charting program and improving safe navi-gation for all mariners.”

In accordance with tradition, SMNBM Bradley Forrester was presented the perpetual trophy as the ship’s youngest member.

“To be the youngest person on board the oldest ship in the fleet on my first sea posting, and receive the perpetual trophy on behalf of Paluma, is something I will never forget,” SMN Forrester said.

Paluma and her sister ships Mermaid, Benalla and Shepparton are 36m-long catamarans.

The first of four survey motor launches built for Navy, they were constructed in Adelaide and are fitted with advanced sonars to scan the seafloor.

New title for old Paluma

The ship’s company of the new First Lady of the Fleet, HMAS Paluma, with the perpetual trophy.

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8 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

Canberra’s homecoming HUNDREDS of family and friends welcomed HMAS Canberra home on August 2, following her six-month deployment through Asia.

The 388-strong ship’s company lined the upper decks as she pulled alongside Garden Island before stepping ashore to greet loved ones for the first time since leaving in February.

HMAS Canberra sailed almost 22,000 nautical miles during the deployment, visiting Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore and Indonesia.

Canberra participated in an exercise with the Indian Navy and conducted the first passage exer-cise between the RAN and the Vietnamese People’s Navy.

She also played key roles in Exercise Ocean Explorer and the Joint Warfare Series, encompassing Exercise Sea Explorer, Sea Raider and Talisman Sabre.

Canberra was home to more than 1400 people during various phases of her deployment with 430,000 meals served to the ship’s company and embarked forces.

CN VADM Michael Noonan said the ship’s company achieved key

milestones in international engage-ment and amphibious capability.

“HMAS Canberra has proven she is a versatile platform, able to lead multi-ship task groups to engage with our regional partners far from Australia, as well as play a key role in successful multi-national exercises,” VADM Noonan said.

“Working with our neighbours is vital to maintaining interoperability and protecting our common inter-ests in promoting peace and stabil-ity in the region.”

CO Canberra CAPT Terry Morrison said the deployment was

demanding, but his crew met chal-lenges with enthusiasm.

“A deployment as long and far away as this can be hard, but I am proud of the crew for their work and consistently representing the Royal Australian Navy as a professional force everywhere we sailed.

“I thank the families and friends of our ship’s company for support-ing their loved ones while they’ve been deployed.

“Know you can be proud of how they have represented Australia these past six months.”

CN VADM Michael Noonan welcomes home HMAS Canberra as she returns to Fleet Base East after a six-month deployment. Photos: ABIS Jarrod Mulvihill

LSBM Benjamin Johnson hugs his children on the Fleet Base East wharf.

Video of HMAS Canberra

returning home can be found at video.navy.gov.au/play/6277

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Ships’ milestone at seaLCDR Glenn Blizzard

ON HER way home to Fleet Base West from the warmer climes of the south-west Pacific, HMAS Sirius rendezvoused with east-based HMA Ships Hobart and Choules in the waters off Jervis Bay for a replenishment at sea.

It was a milestone for Choules as she conducted her first ever replenishment with Sirius, an activity which supported her unit readiness evaluation (URE).

It was the second time Sirius had conducted a replenishment with ‘the Green Ghost’ (Hobart) whose speed and

manoeuvrability was on display.Deputy Maritime Logistics Officer in

Choules LEUT Robert Swift said it was an exciting opportunity during the ship’s URE.

“Having Sea Training Group embarked was highly beneficial to us all,” LEUT Swift said.

“It was a fantastic opportunity and such a huge milestone for Choules and Sirius.”

In addition to transferring fuel, the replenishment provided the maritime logis-tics departments on all three ships with an opportunity to exercise ‘materiel screens’, with an item of supply transferred from Hobart, through Sirius to Choules.

HMAS Sirius conducts her first RAS with HMAS Choules.

All on board to helpLEUT Anthony Martin

SOME people walk past homeless people in the streets and barely give them a second thought, or at best offering a few coins. Not CPO James Elliott.

The maritime logistics chef post-ed to HMAS Canberra wanted to do something about it.

“I’ve always been passionate in assisting the community where pos-sible,” CPO Elliot said.

“On previous ships I’ve engaged and encouraged my chefs to provide assistance to the homeless in one way or another.”

A while ago, CPO Elliott met a woman who travelled frequently for business and collected all the complimentary soaps from her hotel rooms to gift to people in homeless shelters in the Sydney area.

Meeting the woman planted a seed and he decided to provide hygiene products to the homeless in his local community.

When Canberra was prepar-ing to deploy for the Indo-Pacific Endeavour earlier this year, CPO Elliot saw an opportunity.

The senior sailor realised there would be about 750 personnel on-board Canberra for six months. The ships’ company would visit seven countries and make domestic port visits to Townsville and Cairns,

with many personnel taking oppor-tunities for respite by paying to stay in hotels ashore.

“I thought I could adapt the idea of that single traveller and magnify it by the 750 triservice personnel on board,” he said.

The crew of Canberra banded together and collected hundreds of personal hygiene products.

“We collected all the compli-mentary hotel soaps, tooth brushes and shavers we could throughout

the course of the trip to provide assistance to the local community in and around the Woolloomooloo area,” he said

“Seeing personnel donating their products was humbling and made me proud of the people I am serving with.”

Since he returned from the deployment, CPO Elliott is look-ing forward to sharing the hoard of items with those in need.

CPO James Elliott with donated sanitary items on board HMAS Canberra, during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: ABIS Leo Baumgartner

www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019 1110 CENTRENAVY WEEK IN THE NORTH

NAVY Week in the Northern Territory drew to an exciting close on August 10 when officers and sailors from HMAS Coonawarra marched through the City of Darwin, exercising their right to Freedom of Entry.

Cheered on by hundreds of locals and visitors, CO Coonawarra CMDR Darren Rushworth said the event was a great lift for the ship’s company, which had been busy in support of border protection operations.

“Navy’s ability to protect Australia’s maritime domain, which is the lifeline of our nation and key to our security and prosperity, is only possible through the work of our highly committed, skilled and competent servicemen and women,” CMDR Rushworth said.

“I want to thank the local community for coming out during Navy Week in the Northern Territory to show our officers and sailors that their work is important and they are valued members of this tight-knit community.”

The ship’s company marched down Knuckey Street, where it was challenged by Darwin City Town Clerk Scott Waters at the Darwin Town Hall, with Freedom of Entry heartily granted.

The tradition of Freedom of Entry dates back to the 11th century, when a city trained soldiers for defensive measures and city protection. Freedom of Entry was

rigorously controlled by the city leaders as a measure of precaution rather than an act of grace.

In modern times the granting of Freedom of Entry bestows no legal right or privilege on the recipient body but it is accepted that the conferment is the most honourable distinction the city can give.

Almost 600 Navy personnel are based in the Darwin area, most of whom work at Coonawarra, where 11 Armidale-class patrol boats are based.

CMDR Rushworth said it was an exciting time to be in the Navy in Darwin, with six Arafura-class offshore patrol boats also due to join the fold.

“Defence has committed $272 million to upgrade naval facilities in the north, which will include a new outer wharf at Coonawarra to support varying combinations of the Navy’s major surface combatant ships and submarines, and enhance the ADF capability to conduct operations and exercises in the north of Australia.

“Defence has also committed a further $223 million to the Larrakeyah Barracks redevelopment project, which, in part, will support Navy operations in the north.”

The project will also provide fuel storage and refuelling capabilities to meet current and projected demands.

STANDING PROUD AT

SUNSET

THE people of Darwin turned out in droves to watch more than 100

officers and sailors from HMAS Coonawarra perform ceremonial divisions and a sunset ceremony at Mindil Beach on August 8.

Commander Shore Force CAPT Stephen Bowater was the reviewing officer for the ceremony, which has become a highlight of the annual Navy Week, running this year from August 5-10, in the Northern Territory.

CO Coonawarra CMDR Darren Rushworth said Navy had a “proud history and an exciting future in Darwin”.

“Our sailors and officers have stood side-by-side with the local community during the bombing of Darwin, Cyclone Tracy and Cyclone Marcus,” CMDR Rushworth said.

“Navy will continue to rely on northern Australia to conduct essential operations, such as border protection, and to stage major multilateral exercises, such as Exercise Kakadu.

“Every officer and sailor involved in the ceremonial divisions and sunset ceremony feels proud right now, and I hope everyone

in Darwin who witnessed it feels proud of them as well.”

It was only the second time the traditional ceremony had been performed on Mindil Beach.

Ceremonial divisions musters the ship’s company in their best uniforms for inspection by a reviewing senior officer.

Sunset ceremony is steeped in tradition. It honours the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who have served during war and peace.

It is preceded by a beat to quarters played by the RAN Band, a practice that dates back centuries to the age of sail when a ship’s drums were beaten to summon men to quarters or action stations when battle was imminent.

At five minutes to sunset, the Evening Hymn is played, followed by a volley of blank shots fired by the guard, echoing an old practice of saluting the knell of the parting day.

Navy Week is Coonawarra’s way of thanking the local community for its continuing support to the local servicemen and women.

HMAS Coonawarra’s crew members were dressed to impress as the crowds turned out in Darwin for a Navy Week highlight, LEUT Todd Fitzgerald reports.

Hearty welcome as company thrills crowd

Parade Commander XO HMAS Coonawarra LCDR Kate Woodall waits as the officers and sailors march onto Mindil Beach for a ceremonial divisions and sunset parade.Photos: SSGT Jordan Gilbert

Members of HMAS Coonawarra conduct a ceremonial guard on Darwin’s Mindil Beach.

Navy cadets and staff of TS Darwin march through the streets of Darwin with the ship’s company of HMAS Coonawarra as they exercise Freedom of Entry to the city.Photo: LEUT Todd Fitzgerald

Coonawarra’s ceremonial guard on Mindil Beach presents the perfect photo opportunity for spectators.

LSCIS Nathan Brom folds the Australian White Ensign during the sunset ceremony.

The Darwin public enjoys the spectacle of the ceremony.

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DEFENCE SEAWORTHINESS

SYMPOSIUM21 - 22 November 2019

P: (02) 6266 4444 | E: dswms@defence.gov.au

The Office of the Defence Seaworthiness Regulator is hosting the inaugural Defence Seaworthiness Symposium in Canberra 21-22 November 2019.

The theme of the symposium is ‘Reforming to Transform – Seaworthiness as a Defence-wide priority’.

The full Symposium program is being finalised and will be available shortly.

Where: Adams Auditorium, ADFA Canberra

Who: All members of the Defence maritime community including Defence Industry are invited to attend.

Interested parties may register at:www.defence.gov.au/seaworthiness/contact_symposium

Eligibility for the Australian Defence Medal and Long Service Medals• Eligibility for the Australian Defence Medal and for Long Service

Medals (such as the Defence Long Service Medal/DLSM) is calculated on ENLISTMENT/APPOINTMENT YEAR (whichever is earlier). Not calendar or financial year.

• Enlistment/Appointment Year (whichever is earlier) is calculated from the date of your Enlistment or Appointment.

For more information, or to apply for a medal assessment, visit defence.gov.au/medals

13PERSONNELAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

SBLT Dylan Collaery

VICTORIA Cross recipient CPL Daniel Keighran was the keynote speaker at the latest Navy Emerging Leaders Forum in Darwin, in late July.

The forums are being held around the country to give Navy’s emerging leaders an opportunity for professional devel-opment through discussions about the theme Leading for Success, as well as an opportunity to learn from the experienc-es and knowledge of keynote speakers.

This year’s speaker’s list boasts two VC recipients, AFL coaches Michelle Cowan and Paul Roos, Australian Rugby Union great John Eales and the Director of the Australian War Memorial, Brendan Nelson.

Participants asked questions of Deputy Fleet Commander CDRE Robert Plath, who spoke about his time as a lieutenant aboard patrol boats.

CPL Keighran spoke about his life, both in and out of the Army, and the challenges he has faced.

A panel of junior leaders also talked about their experiences in the Navy.

Finally, participants asked questions

anonymously of CDRE Plath, WO-N Gary Wight and WO-N incumbent Deb Butterworth.

Trainee maritime warfare officer SBLT Max Alexander said he gained a lot from the forum.

“The Navy Emerging Leaders Forum was a really good opportunity to learn more about the resources available to better myself as a Navy officer, such as the mentoring program,” SBLT Alexander said.

“It’s great to see the potential of the young leaders in our Navy, it really fills me with confidence.”

The forums are organised and coordi-nated by the Directorate of Navy Culture and represent CN’s commitment to the investment in, and empowerment of, the next generation of Navy leaders.

LS, PO, SBLT and LEUT ranks are encouraged to participate in one of the remaining forums for 2019: Melbourne, September 26; Canberra, October 17; Sydney, November 6; and, Perth, November 27.

Members can apply through the Emerging Leaders link on the Directorate of Navy Culture homepage on the DRN.

Participants at the Navy Emerging Leaders Forum in Darwin. Photo: POIS Helen Frank

Future leaders inspired

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AN AUTHOR’S motivation for writing a biography on one of Australia’s naval legends was sim-ply because no one else had.

Having met VADM Sir John Collins when he was a young boy, Mudgee-based author Tony MacDougall felt a biography was well overdue.

MacDougall was VADM Collins’ neighbour in Melbourne when he was a school boy.

“When he saw I was interested in ships and the sea, he often gave me books and photographs he thought might interest me,” MacDougall said.

“It was then my interest in his life and in naval history began, and it has lasted a lifetime, undimin-ished over more than 50 years.”

MacDougall said there was no shortage of books about the RAN’s

Collins of the Sydney

Author: Tony MacDougallRRP: $39.95Reviewer: SGT Dave MorleyPages: 542Publisher: Clarion Editions

Leader with a unique style

ships and battles, because no other small navy in the world matched its achievements in two World Wars, but there were practically no autobi-ographies or biographies of its men.

“There are now five hefty stud-ies of General Monash, two biog-raphies of Field-Marshal Blamey, two of General Bennett and General Chauvel, but not a single biography of an Australian admiral, until this one,” he said.

“So I hope Collins of the Sydney fills a gap – it’s taken a long time to write, almost 20 years.”

Despite its title, the book is not just about VADM Collins and his exploits in HMAS Sydney II in the early days of WWII.

The book also recounts the Navy’s development, as it ran paral-lel to VADM Collins’ career, which started at the RAN College in 1913.

VADM Collins’ skill and profes-sionalism ensured he survived the running down of the Navy in the 1920s and the financial troubles of the early 1930s.

After his legendary exploits in the Mediterranean at the start of WWII, VADM Collins was seri-ously wounded during a Japanese air attack on HMAS Australia II, which killed the ship’s CO Captain Emile Dechaineux and 30 others, and wounded 64.

He went on to become Chief of Naval Staff in 1948 with his tenure twice extended until 1955.

VADM Collins had a unique leadership style, which inspired loyalty from those who served with him; for this reason aspiring leaders may well take something away from this book.

The book is well-researched, presented and reasonably-well illus-trated, but may have done with a few more detailed maps.

Navy News has a copy of Collins of the Sydney to give away to a lucky reader.

To win our copy of the book, be the first reader to request it by email at navynews@defencenews.gov.au

14 BOOK REVIEW www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

ADF ARRTS ProgramIt’s on again! Applications are now open for ADF ARRTS Program 19.2, which will run 03-29 November 2019 at the University of Canberra, in a rank and uniform free environment.

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

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

Applications close 07 October 2019.For an application, email ADF.ARRTS@defence.gov.au or

visit www.defence.gov.au/jcg/arrts

DP

S J

UL0

59-1

9

Simone Liebelt

A FORMER RAN sailor, who was awarded for his bravery in the aftermath of a tragic accident 50 years ago, said he would never forget the fear he experi-enced that fateful morning.

ABRP Lew Farkas was on board HMAS Melbourne II in the early hours of June 3, 1969, when USS Frank E Evans collided with the RAN aircraft carrier after crossing her bow in the South China Sea.

The US destroyer was cut in half and sank, resulting in the loss of 74 US sailors.

“I don’t remember how I even got on to the Evans as it all happened very quickly, but I do remember being scared witless going below decks in the dark looking for survivors,” Mr Farkas said.

“The forward half of Evans had already sunk and the after half was slow-ly starting to sink but was still afloat, so we only had minutes to try and help the sailors left on board, who were either injured or in shock.

“I went below looking for anyone left behind, and the lower deck was already

under water. I couldn’t see a thing, so as I was wading through the water I didn’t know if things floating into me were bodies or what.

“I went as far as I could go and called out for anyone but no one answered so I got out of there as quickly as I could. After the search the Evans was allowed to sink.”

In recognition of his quick and courageous actions, Mr Farkas, of Mannum, east of Adelaide, was last month awarded a US Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at Navy Headquarters, South Australia.

CO Navy Headquarters - South Australia CMDR Andrew Burnett said he was thrilled to be part of the special occasion.

“It was an honour to present the award to Mr Farkas, which he earned half a century ago,” CMDR Burnett said.

“His incredible story of bravery was in the finest traditions of the Royal Australian Navy.”

Mr Farkas is among 18 former RAN officers and sailors to be awarded US medals for their actions following the collision.

Bravery award

CO Navy Headquarters - South Australia, CMDR Andrew Burnett presents Mr Lewis Farkas with the US Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

15PERSONNELAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

PO Ann-Maree Anderson

THE 2019 Navy Engineering Challenge has commenced.

The challenge invites Navy tech-nicians to demonstrate their profes-sional skills and be the best they can through friendly competition.

“The engineering challenge showcases the Navy’s technical talent, promoting teamwork, trade skills and job planning,” Head of Navy Engineering RADM COL Lawrence said.

Regional ET and MT heats are set to run from August 19 until September 28 in WA, NT, Qld, NSW, Vic and SA.

The national competition will be held at HMAS Cerberus on October 23.

The mechanical challenge con-sists of teams of five MT maintain-ers stripping and rebuilding a diesel engine in parallel with the servic-ing of an air conditioning system and the construction of an external power supply.

Each team has a refrigeration maintainer, diesel maintainer and an electrical maintainer.

The emphasis is on technical mastery, planning and teamwork, rather than the speed of the task being completed.

The electronics challenge con-

sists of separate teams of four ET maintainers working on the con-struction, modification and opera-tion of a robot.

The operation of the robot uses both smartphone and laptop control.

The integration of a laser and camera onto the robot to simulate a fire control system will also be involved.

Minimal software programming skills are a prerequisite with the emphasis on technical application, electro-mechanical integration and team planning and participation.

3D printers will be introduced as an option in this year’s regionals.

CWO Naval Engineering WO Christopher Rowley said the com-petition would encourage innova-tive thinking throughout the fleet.

“The challenge final will be a great opportunity for technical sail-ors to showcase their technical mas-tery to overcome challenges they will come across in their careers,” WO Rowley said.

The competition has the added benefit of providing an opportunity for junior sailors to have evidence captured to acquit in their experi-ence journals.

Find details for regional coordinators and supporting information on the DRN, at RAN Engineering Challenge on the Navy Engineering Tech Port.

All eyes on the prize

Electronic technicians working on their team’s challenge during the 2018 competition. Photo: LEUT Ryan Zerbe

Toll Transitions is ready to help you relocate

For more informationFreecall: 1800 819 167

www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defenceRead Toll’s “Your Defence Relocation Guide”

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

Strong focus on Customer ServiceToll is focused on customer service and continuous improvement as we strive to provide you and your families the best possible relocation experience. Our staff are currently undertaking specialist customer service training so we can best meet your needs and service requirements.

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

Toll Move Plan App - Easy Access to your Itinerary The Toll Transferee Move Plan App gives you easy access to the details of your relocation itinerary that you’ll need to know as you progress through your move. It provides you with up-to-date details about your relocation including removal dates, allowances, travel dates including airfare information (where applicable) and accommodation details at both your losing and gaining locations.

The App can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and Apple iTunes App store by searching for Toll Move Plan. You can logon to the Toll Move Plan App using the same valid username and password you use to access Toll Transitions’ website www.tollgroup.com/movemaestro/defence

We look forward to helping you relocate this posting period.

LCDR Ben Robinson

EMPLOYED in a SERCAT 3 arrange-ment, previously known as a reservist, LEUT Matt Templeton is an integral member of CMDR Michael Hicking’s team at the Australian Maritime Warfare Centre at Garden Island, Sydney.

LEUT Templeton is also the owner of a small business that supplies official print and electronic products to commercial shipping, and a range of maritime publi-cations and products.

By bringing together his Navy training and civilian business experience, LEUT Templeton contributes sophisticated geo-spatial skill sets and a commercial focus, which is a great attribute in Navy.

The flexibility provided by the Total Workforce Model (TWM) works well for LEUT Templeton and his business, and he appreciates the commercial variety that a more traditional career with Navy may not have afforded him.

LEUT Templeton recognises that TWM arrangements do not suit everyone and are not for all roles, but he said many positions can be staffed more flexibly.

“To enable flexibility to take off, prac-ticalities need to be taken into considera-tion,” LEUT Templeton said.

“People need DREAMS tokens, access to systems and desks to sit at to undertake work.

“Think about the mitigation, accept the responsibility and shut it down if it doesn’t work, but most importantly have a go.”

He said it was important for honest conversations between members and their supervisors, because many positions could be staffed more flexibly within Navy.

CMDR Hicking said he was happy with the arrangement.

“Flexibility is essential because the Navy – the ADF in general – doesn’t cur-rently have the people capability we need to do everything we need to do,” CMDR Hicking said.

“Integrating people on different SERCAT arrangements gives me a mas-sive force multiplier.

“Not only can I utilise skill sets devel-oped outside of Navy, but my unit can also do work that wouldn’t otherwise be done, meaning that the AMWC is more efficient as a team.

“While I acknowledge there is some additional effort upfront in engaging members on different SERCAT arrange-ments, the benefits that come from their integration into the workforce far out-weigh the costs.

“My key message is to consider what output you need to achieve and embrace all the SERCAT arrangements, be flexible and realistic in what you want to achieve and go for it.”

Flexibility on show

16 PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

Maritime Warfare Officer / Business Owner

Adaptable Service has enabled LEUT Matt Templeton the ability to build and invest his time in his business, while still rendering service for the Navy. The Total Workforce Model means LEUT Templeton has been able to integrate Navy service into his civilian routine and continue to contribute to Navy Capability.

SERCAT 3

Do you have an interest in Defence Youth Safety?The Defence annual Youth Safety Forum is being held on

6 September 2019

The Defence Youth Safety Forum is open to all personnel and will be particularly informative for:• Defence Senior Leadership Group;• Defence Force Recruiting;• Defence Training Authorities;• instructional staff at initial training establishments;• Defence Youth Program staff;• supervisors/managers/commanders of employees

under the age of 18;• and other Defence staff such as contractors and

youth program practitioners who regularly engage with young people under the age of 18.

Personnel wishing to attend the Defence Youth Safety Forum are encouraged to provide their name, position and email, via email to defence.youth@defence.gov.au by 23 August 2019.

Further information on Defence Youth Safety can be found on the Defence Youth website: www.defenceyouth.gov.au

DPS:JUL019-19

17FEATURESAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

A JUNIOR Navy officer learned the finer points of French food, language and engineering on a

six-month tour with French LHD Tonnerre.

SBLT David Hamilton was the first RAN officer to participate in the French Jeanne d’Arc deploy-ment, an annual training mission that follows three years training at the French Naval Academy.

Currently conducting phase three of marine engineering train-ing, SBLT David Hamilton joined the Tonnerre in January to deploy in company with the stealth frigate La Fayette.

SBLT Hamilton applied for the unique training opportunity while on the Engineering Office Application Course at HMAS Cerberus.

“I had an amazing time and encourage all who can to apply,” he said.

“You meet an amazing bunch of officers from across the world and create great relationships that will serve you into the future.

“You get a different perspective on how a Navy can function, and an insight into French Navy culture.

“You also learn the language, travel the world to places the RAN doesn’t go and receive world-class training.

“The port calls were amazing – Cape Town, Rio, Fort de France, Cartagena, Vera Cruz, Charleston,

Punta Delgada.” Departing and returning to Toulon, France, the mission transited the Suez Canal, the coast of East Africa, the Atlantic (twice), the coast of South America and the Eastern seaboard of the con-tinental US.

SBLT Hamilton said Navy would benefit from his experience.

“With the 2017 Joint Statement of Enhanced Strategic Partnership s igned be tween France and Australia and the signing of the submarine contract, Australia and France will be working together on every level of government and defence to assure the on-time deliv-ery of the submarines and enable interoperability in joint exercises and missions,” he said.

“To enable this, cultural, linguis-tic and organisational differences must be recognised and accounted for and the mission Jeanne d’Arc gave me all three of these things.

“It’s an important representation-al role as my being there raised the profile of the RAN among an entire cohort of French officers.

“Finally, I received great engi-neering training that I can bring back to the RAN.”

SBLT Hamilton said another benefit of his deployment was his exposure to French cuisine.

“We would regular ly ge t Fois Gras and there were always baguettes and cheese platters, very French,” he said.

SBLT Hamilton’s French lan-

guage skills were at level B1 at the start of his deployment.

“I really struggled at the start, but by the end I understood most discussions,” he said.

“Many French sailors com-mented on my Australian accent while speaking French to them and we often made fun of each other’s accents for laughs.”

Assistant DA to France – Paris CMDR Simon Patching said SBLT Hamilton’s mission high-lights included a HADR mission to Mozambique in the aftermath of Cyclone Kenneth and a visit to the European Space Agency in Cayenne, French Guinea.

“Having an Australian embedded also served an important role in the development of increasingly close relations between the French and Australian navies who are under-taking more sophisticated activities with each other,” CMDR Patching said.

“Improving understanding is an important step as we push for great-er collaboration and cooperation between the Australian and French Armed Forces.

“I encourage all future marine engineers to look at this trip as a possibility for them; while learn-ing the language is hard, the train-ing mission is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

French ship sea change A six-month embed on French LHD Tonnerre was an opportunity of a life-time for one officer, SGT Dave Morley reports.

SBLT David Hamilton on French LHD Tonnerre (above) and (left) working with sailors in Tonnerre during his embed. Photos: Simon Ghesquière

– SBLT David Hamilton

You meet an amazing bunch of officers from across the world and create great relationships that will serve you into the future.

‘‘

Wanted

ADF Reservists with COMSARM qualifications

The Defence Single Disposal Organisation is currently concentrating on the disposal of Explosive Ordnance (EO) and is seeking members experienced in Computer System Armaments (COMSARM).

Members must hold a Negative Vetting 1 clearance and have extensive knowledge in COMSARM to assist with the transactions required during the disposal of EO.

Position commences from September 2019 at Canberra, ACT and/or Orchard Hills, NSW.

• You will assist with the planning and conduct associated with disposal of EO.

• You will assist with analysing data in COMSARM and finalising transactions after the disposal of EO.

• Position available for any service/rank for between 50 and 200 days per FY.

• Must have experience within the last 5 years and be a current reservist.

• Travel will be required between Canberra, Orchard Hills and other locations on a semi regular basis.

Submit your resume to the MLDS Reserves mailbox:

MLDS.reserves@defence.gov.au

18 SPORT www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS August 22, 2019

CPL Veronica O’Hara and Andrew Bujdegan

HMAS Toowoomba won the closely fought netball final of HMAS Stirling’s monthly sports competition at Rockingham, Western Australia, last month.

The game against HMAS Arunta progressed with nail-bit-ting suspense, as the Toowoomba team edged out its opponent to clinch a 6-5 win.

Toowoomba goal shooter AB Alister Holt said the contest was intense from the start.

“It was exciting and nerve-racking because it was so close the whole time,” AB Holt said.

“We didn’t really have a tough game until we faced them, so it was a shock, but the rivalry was good.

“I was having a laugh with the guy defending me and every-one was in pretty good spirits.

“We had a lot of handy play-ers and were moving the ball a lot quicker than the other teams we were playing.”

AB Holt subbed off for the last few minutes and said it was hard to watch.

“They were a pretty fit bunch of taller guys so I think they had a bit of size on us, where we were quite mixed,” he said.

“Their shooter was huge and could almost dunk the ball. We were probably lucky that he missed some at the end.”

Toowoomba’s PTI, LS Stuart Stretton, was pleased with the result and the efforts of his side.

“Even though we had a few state netballers on our side, it was still a tough game to win,” he said.

“I t was point-for-point . Arunta would score, then we would score, over and over, and it came down to the last 40 sec-onds.

“We’d scored and they had three chances to when we got the ball back and time ran out.

“The team worked well together and I think that’s what got us across the line.”

T h e w i n a d d e d t o Toowoomba’s tally of sporting achievements, after it also won Stirling’s basketball competition against Arunta in June.

The sporting competitions are run monthly by the Stirling PTIs.

Court short but on point

The HMAS Toowoomba centre, right, attempts to intercept a pass against HMAS Arunta in the netball final of Stirling’s monthly sports competition. Photo: LSIS Kylie Jagiello

WATCH keepers and day hands complain they don’t get enough sleep and many of us underestimate how important it is to our health and fitness.

Stress and lack of sleep can lead to a chain reaction of metabolic adaptations that slow down the rate of fat loss. This is an issue when you consider the number one reason people quit their dieting routine is because their results are too slow.

When sleep is poor, our levels of leptin, the hormone responsible for keeping us feeling full, decrease. Poor sleep also raises ghrelin, which is our hunger hormone.

These two reactions combine to have a negative impact on nutritional habits and a healthy lifestyle. And they are just part of the bigger picture of negative effects.

To mitigate this we need to start by bringing our body back to a parasympathetic state, which basically means reducing stress levels. Once stress is addressed, you can up your training volume.

Few people know that training is stress on the body, so you need to try to minimise other stress to stop it all snowballing and leaving you feeling overtired.

Remember, health is about both physical and mental fitness and sleep is an important element of that.

Dreaming of less stressKEEPING

FIT TO FIGHT

with LSPTI Jakob Pekolj

Create a bedtime routine. Reduce time on devices with blue lights on their screens (such as phones and laptops) before bed. The blue light tells your brain it is daytime. This slows down the production of melatonin, the key hormone for regulating sleep.

Try going to bed at the same time every night. This ensures

a good routine and stops you from staying up late.

Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night. This ensures adequate rest and recovery and primes you for the next day.

Got any burning fitness related questions? Send them to jakob.pekolj@defence.gov.au.

Top tips for a good sleep

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19SPORTAugust 22, 2019 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

FLGOFF Evita Ryan

WALKING along the bays of garages at July’s SuperSprint at the Queensland Raceway, spectators might have been surprised to find Navy, Army and RAAF personnel helping fine-tune vehicles.

ABATA Basjon Ingold is working in the composite section at Tickford Racing, where he is learning com-posite manufacturing and repair tech-niques he will be able to take back to 808SQN.

On race weekends, AB Ingold travels with the team working on Thomas Randle’s Skye Sands Ford Falcon FG X, carrying out mainte-nance, repair work and setup changes to the Super2 vehicle.

“I love the ability to put forward my skills as an aircraft technician in the Navy in a completely new high-pressure environment,” AB Ingold said.

Team Army mechanics, electri-cians and technicians were also involved. Honing their skills and raising awareness of the techni-cal trades the ADF offers, the team showcased their skills with the Armygeddon and Project Digger street machines.

Team Army member craftsman Tim Allen is a trainee heavy diesel vehicle mechanic.

“I really enjoy maintaining and repairing a range of vehicles that I wouldn’t get the opportunity to work

Boon for building skills

on anywhere else, and it’s a great way to learn and consolidate core skills,” CFN Allen said.

Working alongside CFN Allen as part of Team Army is RAAF air-

craftman Henry Horsfield, a trainee ground support equipment fitter (motor mechanic).

“I love my job because I have the chance to work on a wide variety of

vehicles and specialist equipment with the latest tools and technology, and I work with my best mates,” AC Horsfield said.

“It’s great to be able to further

my skills working on vehicles in a

non-traditional environment and I’m

looking forward to taking that knowl-

edge back to my squadron.”

ABATA Basjon Ingold with the Skye Sands Ford racing car that he works on as a team mechanic for Tickford Racing. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd.

Volume 62, No. 15, August 22, 2019

SPORT

LEAP OF HOPE

Toowoomba on point in netball

shoot-outPage 18

An HMAS Arunta player leaps high in the netball final of Stirling’s monthly sports competition, but his efforts were not enough to get the team home against Toowoomba.Photo: LSIS Kylie Jagiello