1. No category

Edition 1341
November 20, 2014
LEST WE
FORGET
LCpl Todd Chidgey’s
name added to
Roll of Honour
PAGE 2
Photo by Cpl Nick Wiseman
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Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Honouring
his service
November 20, 2014
Commander Forcomd
Maj-Gen Michael Slater inspects
2 Cav Regt soldiers during the
unit’s farewell parade.
Photo by AB Leon Dafonte
 LCpl Todd Chidgey’s name added to Roll of Honour
Cpl Nick Wiseman
T H E n a m e o f L C p l To d d
Chidgey, the latest casualty of the
Afghanistan conflict, was added to
the Afghanistan Roll of Honour in
a small ceremony at the Australian
War Memorial on November 11.
LCpl Chidgey died in a non-combat related incident in Afghanistan
on July 1. He was serving as part of
the Protective Security Detachment
providing protection for a senior
Australian officer at HQ ISAF.
His mother, Kerry Baker, said he
was a wonderful son and a wonderful
soldier.
“I am extremely proud of Todd,”
she said.
“He grew into a wonderful man,
so strong, and he put his heart and
soul into everything he did.”
His mother and brother, Adam
Chidgey, attended the service, along
with CDF ACM Mark Binskin, CA
Lt-Gen David Morrison, Australian
War Memorial director Brendan
Nelson and a small number of guests.
Australia’s Federation Guard provided a catafalque party at the Tomb
of the Unknown Australian Soldier as
wreaths were laid in LCpl Chidgey’s
memory.
Following the wreath-laying
his name was unveiled on the
Afghanistan Roll of Honour where
poppies were placed next to his name
by his mother and brother.
Ms Baker said Todd was passionate about everything he did and loved
spending time with his brother Adam.
“Adam thought of Todd as not
only a brother, but a mentor,” she said.
“We will all miss him.”
LCpl Chidgey is the 41st
Australian soldier to have died in
Afghanistan.
2 Cav Regt heads
to Townsville
2 CAV Regt, which has called
Darwin home for the past 22 years,
has paraded for the last time at
Robertson Barracks, closing a proud
chapter in the unit’s and region’s
history.
LCpl Todd Chidgey’s mother, Kerry Baker, and
brother, Adam Chidgey, read the names of
Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan.
Inset top, LCpl Chidgey’s portrait.
Inset below, Ms Baker and Mr Chidgey console
each other after laying a wreath at the Tomb of
the Unknown Australian Soldier at the Australian
War Memorial, as a soldier from Australia’s
Federation Guard presents arms. Photos by Cpl Nick Wiseman
you to the Darwin and Palmerston
communities for the support they have
shown us for more than two decades.”
The unit, which arrived in the
Northern Territory in 1992, was the
first unit of the 1 Bde to move from
Holsworthy.
Some 200 soldiers paraded before
Commander 1 Bde Brig Mick Ryan
gathered dignitaries, colleagues, fami- said while it would be sad to see the
ly and friends on the regiment’s parade regiment leave the brigade, he looked
ground on October 31, before symboli- forward to the next chapter in the
cally marching towards Townsville.
unit’s history under Plan Beersheba.
2 Cav Regt will take up residence
“As the second of the new
at Lavarack Barracks as the new
Armoured Cavalry Regiments, 2 Cav
Armoured Cavalry Regiment within
Regt will be important to 3 Bde,”
3 Bde.
Brig Ryan said.
CO 2 Cav Regt Lt-Col James Davis
“With tanks, ASLAVs and APCs,
said it was with some sorrow that the
the Armoured Cavalry Regiment offers
unit said farewell to Darwin.
a level of striking power, mounted
“The regiment was welcomed by
reconnaissance and protected mobility
the local community and was rapidly
not readily available to the soldiers of
adopted as Darwin’s own,” he said.
Townsville in the past.
“We have been farewelled and
“2 Cav Regt has added greatly to
welcomed home from numerous
the rich history of 1 Bde; it is now
operations overseas, adding to the
3 Bde’s opportunity to add to their
military history of the region and that
own.”
of the regiment.
3 Bde will officially welcome the
“With this final parade at
regiment to Townsville during a parade
at Lavarack Barracks on November 27.
Robertson Barracks, we say thank
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EDITORIAL
Editor: Alisha Welch: (02) 6265 2253
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Reporters:
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November 20, 2014
3
NEWS
Photos by Cpl Mark Doran
and AB Jake Badior
What WRA means for you
 New arrangement comes into effect this month
THE Defence Force
Remuneration Tribunal has
approved the ADF Workplace
Remuneration Arrangement
(WRA) with effect from
November 6.
The 2014 WRA will provide a
4.5 per cent pay increase over the
three years of the arrangement.
The decision, announced
on November 3, means more
than 70,000 ADF permanent
and reserve members will get a
1.5 per cent pay increase each
November starting this year.
The across-the-board increases will also be applied to the 15
salary-related allowances ADF
members can also receive if
eligible.
The decision ends the final
stage of the 2014 WRA process
that began across the ADF in
June, with 70 information sessions held in bases around the
nation, attended by more than
3300 members from the three
Services.
CA Lt-Gen David Morrison
said the approval of the 2014
WRA followed extensive
FIND OUT MORE
Details on the 2014 WRA
are on the ADF Pay
and Conditions website,
http://www.defence.
gov.au/dpe/pac/ and
People Connect website,
http://intranet.defence.
gov.au/people/sites/
peopleconnect/ComWeb.
asp?Page=110472 or
simply scan the QR code
with a smart phone.
negotiation by Defence’s senior
leadership.
“The CDF advocated very
strongly for the servicemen and
women of the ADF through the
WRA negotiations and I am confident that the ADF has negotiated the best agreement possible
within the current environment,”
Lt-Gen Morrison said.
“The WRA is part of an
ongoing remuneration journey,
which began in 2006 when the
ADF reviewed its pay structures and categories, along with
discretionary benefits.
“This continual process of
reform, along with successive
WRAs, is designed to ensure that
the ADF retains a contemporary
employment package.”
The implementation plan for
the six productivity measures is
yet to be finalised. The changes
will not be implemented before
March 1, 2015.
PRODUCTIVITY
MEASURES
Extra Recreation
Leave (ERL)
The introduction of ERL in the 1970s gave commanders the
option to grant up to five days each year to rest and recuperate after performing arduous and prolonged duty. Since
the introduction of ERL, the ADF introduced field leave in
1996 and reviewed flight duties and seagoing leave – all
types of leave that compensate ADF members for arduous
and prolonged duty. The approval for commanders to grant
ERL has been removed as it was not applied equitably
across the ADF. Commanders still retain the capacity to
approve other types of leave, including short absence from
duty for ADF members to rest and recuperate following
arduous and prolonged duty.
CDF Christmas
stand-down day
The ADF Christmas stand-down days flowed from the
equivalent Australian Public Service arrangement that
began in 2002/03. With the removal of one stand-down day,
ADF members can use one day of accrued leave, such as
recreation, seagoing, field and flight duty leave. If an ADF
member is not required for duty and no other leave is available, commanders retain the capacity to approve short
absence. The removal of the Christmas stand-down day
does not occur on the days between Christmas Day to New
Year’s Day.
Vehicle Allowance
When a member was authorised to use their private vehicle
for travel, depending on their engine capacity, one of three
rates was payable. Rationalisation of the previous three
rates to a single rate of $0.63/km reduces the administration
costs associated with managing three separate rates and
reflects the improved fuel efficiency of modern vehicles and
will simplify and reduce the cost of administration.
Daily Distance
Travel
With the improvements in the national road infrastructure
and capacity of modern vehicles to travel long distances
safely, the allowable daily driving distance for ADF members
will increase. The allowable driving distance that an ADF
member may drive in one day without a trailer will increase
from 480km to 600km, and with a trailer will increase from
360km to 500km.
Replacement of
food allowance
with a one-off larder payment for
members categorised as Member
With Dependants
(Unaccompanied)
(MWD(U))
It is recognised that living away from dependent families
(MWD(U)) incurs living expenses that members would not
normally be required to meet. Food allowance was paid
fortnightly to members categorised as MWD(U) who lived
off base to assist with food expenses and in setting up a
pantry. However, the normal need for an ADF member to
provide for their own meals is not considered to be one of
those living expenses as the member would be required to
fund their own meals if they were living with their dependents. In addition, single members who live out are required
to provide for their own meals. On this basis, food allowance
has been ceased and replaced with a one-off larder payment. This one-off larder payment recognises the expense
a member faces in setting up a second larder away from
their primary residence. A range of other MWD(U) benefits
remain, which include reunion travel, assistance with utility
costs, separation allowance, and the waiver of rental contribution for members that live in off-base accommodation.
ADF members categorised MWD(U) that live in on-base
accommodation will retain the free meal entitlement when
using mess facilities.
Higher Duties
Allowance
Historically, less than 1 per cent of higher duties applications were approved for five days or less. The increase in
the qualifying period for higher duties from five to 10 days
aligns with the other qualifying conditions, reduces administration costs and aligns with pay structure changes.
ABOUT THE TRIBUNAL
THE Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal
(DFRT) was established in 1984.
It is an independent body responsible for
the determination of military salary and
allowances.
The DFRT consists of three members, of
whom one must be a former member of the
ADF.
The tribunal is responsible for approving
Workplace Remuneration Arrangements.
In developing the 2014 WRA, the ADF and
Commonwealth worked closely to ensure the
arrangement was consistent with government
policies relating to workplace relations and
wages.
The DFRT has presided over the Graded
Officer Pay Structure review in 2006 and the
Graded Other Ranks Pay Structure review in
2007.
WRAs have delivered a 37.8 per cent
increase to ADF pay, against a CPI increase
of 28 per cent over the same period.
The ongoing Salary-Related Allowance
Review has delivered reforms such as increases to Service Allowance and the new Maritime
Allowances.
IMPACT ON CONDITIONS
OF SERVICE
4
NEWS
“
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
A different approach
 New task force raised in Afghanistan
Cpl Max Bree
LCpl Natalie Hudson puts on
the new JTF 636 shoulder
patch. Inset, Commander JTF
636 Maj-Gen David Mulhall
addresses troops.
A NEW task force has taken
command of Australian forces
in Afghanistan following the
formation of Joint Task Force 636
(JTF 636) on November 1.
JTF 636 now commands
Australia’s Defence personnel in
Afghanistan, including those working
in mentoring roles with the Afghan
National Army and soldiers on force
protection duties.
Commander JTF 636 Maj-Gen
David Mulhall said the task force
represented a new way of operating.
“It is a time of change – it’s more
than creating a new name and a new
flag,” he said.
“It’s a different approach to doing
things here in Afghanistan as we
transition into Operation Highroad,
Australia’s commitment to the post2014 NATO-led resolute support
mission.
“As we focus exclusively on
Afghanistan, we’ll be building on the
success of those people who’ve come
before us.”
Australia’s role in supporting
the NATO-led non-combat train,
advise, assist mission in Afghanistan
will be a demanding one, according
to Maj-Gen Mulhall.
“It will be a dangerous environment that we will continue to work
in,” he said.
“The safety of personnel remains
my upmost priority as we go into
Photos by Cpl Max Bree
It will be a
dangerous
environment that
we will continue
to work in.
– Maj-Gen David Mulhall,
Commander JTF 636
Highroad. Afghanistan remains a
dangerous environment, however, the
mission profile we have will change.
“Our reliance on the Afghan
National Security Forces will
increase as they provide force
protection to us.”
Commander JTF 633 Maj-Gen
Craig Orme said his task force would
still support personnel in Afghanistan.
“JTF 633 will continue to support
them via the Theatre Personal
Support Centre, which will continue
to do their administration,” he said.
“I don’t think you could be
in much better hands with MajGen Mulhall and I know from long
experience he’ll look after you.”
The formation of JTF 636 is
part of the operational redesign to
simplify Australia’s commitment to
Middle East operations.
A new patch for JTF 636
features a brown kangaroo over a
representation of the Afghan flag,
symbolising Australia’s commitment
to a stable and secure Afghanistan.
Army November 20, 2014
Soldiers
support G20
Cpl Mark Doran
ABOUT 2000 ADF members
played a key role in supporting the Group of Twenty (G20)
Leader’s Summit as Brisbane
city went into lockdown.
The summit was held at
the Brisbane Convention and
Exhibition Centre at South Bank
on November 15-16.
The soldiers, sailors and airmen
supported the Queensland Police
Service and other government
agencies with force elements
such as Black Hawk helicopters,
F/A-18 Hornets, clearance divers,
explosive ordnance detection dogs
and members of Socomd.
Close to 200 additional troops
were also on call to support
in providing a safe and secure
environment for the G20.
Commander ADF Support
to G20 Security Maj-Gen Stuart
Smith said the G20 Task Force had
been planning and preparing for
the event over the past 18 months.
“This has been in cooperation with the Queensland Police
Service as well as state and federal
government agencies,” Maj-Gen
Smith said.
The Special Forces elements
supporting the G20 were drawn
from 2 Cdo Regt with other
Socomd personnel including
engineers, logisticians and support
staff.
See the next edition of Army for more on
the ADF’s support to the G20.
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Army NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
5
Champion soldier
 A 7RAR private who was awarded for his bravery in an insider attack has been recognised for his military skills
Sgt Dave Morley
A 7RAR digger commended for
his calmness, courage and decisive
action during an insider attack in
Afghanistan in 2013 has been named
champion soldier of the battalion for
2014.
Pte Andrew Wastell, of Spt
Coy, said he was surprised when
he received the champion soldier
award on August 22, after the 7RAR
military skills competition.
“I’m not the best at anything,
more of a jack of all trades,” he said.
“My section and I put a bit of
study in heading up to the battalion
comp and the section came fourth.”
He received the highest individual
score on the tab data, in shooting,
general military knowledge and
medical stands.
Sgt John Smallacombe, 7RAR
Operations and Training Sergeant,
was involved in organising the
competition and said Pte Wastell was
the clear winner.
“The individual assessments
were not just based on the soldiers’
skill levels, but also on the soldiers’
temperaments and demeanour
throughout the competition,” he said.
Pte Wastell deployed to
Afghanistan from August 2013 to
January 2014. He was embedded
as an infantryman within the Force
Spt Coy’s Pte Andrew
Wastell is the winner
of the 7RAR champion
soldier of the year
competition with a
total of 530 points.
Photo by Cpl Colin Dadd
Protection Platoon with the Kabul
Support Unit at the Afghan National
Army Officer Academy.
“It was a really good experience
working with the Brits,” he said.
“Some were Scottish so we had a bit
of trouble communicating with them
on the radio at first.”
Pte Wastell recalled going with a
New Zealand sergeant to a meeting
with the RSM of the ANA 2 Kandak.
“After the meeting we came out
for handshakes and to say goodbye
and we started getting shot at from
behind,” he said.
“One of the other guardian angels
had a round hit his magazine and
another one scrape his body armour
and the Kiwi sergeant got shot in the
foot.”
Pte Wastell said he turned around
and saw an Afghan soldier about
to follow up on his first burst so he
neutralised the threat.
Pte Wastell said the next part was
the hairiest.
“We were in the middle of an
Afghan battalion and they all formed
up around us,” he said.
“We called in ‘man down’ to get
an extraction ASAP – they weren’t
far away, but there was a big crowd
between us and them.
“It was a curious crowd rather
than a hostile one.”
Pte Wastell said it all happened
pretty quickly.
“My actions were all instinctive
– I didn’t actually think about it until
later,” he said.
“While it feels good being
recognised for the incident, I was
only doing my job and wasn’t
expecting anything.”
For his courage and actions that
saved his mates’ lives, and supported
the achievement of the mission,
Pte Wastell was awarded a CJOPS
gold commendation.
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Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Army NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Clearing a path in Bougainville
Breaking records on
Operation Render Safe
THE dangers posed by 16 tonnes
of unexploded WWII ordnance
have been greatly reduced for the
remote community of Torokina,
Bougainville, following Operation
Render Safe 2014.
During the ADF-led mission,
explosive ordnance disposal (EOD)
teams from Australia, the US, UK,
New Zealand, Canada and Solomon
Islands searched for and safely
destroyed WWII-era munitions.
The Commander of the
Multinational Joint Task Force, Capt
Jay Bannister, RAN, said the operation cleared 109 sites of 2293 items
of ordnance that totalled more than
16,000kg of explosives.
“The Army EOD technicians
really came into their own dealing
with the minefield threat, which
I believe is the first time Army
has performed that task since the
Vietnam War,” Capt Bannister said.
Working with the Bougainville
Police Service, and in close consultation with the Autonomous
Bougainville Government, the
Render Safe team destroyed the dangerous munitions that had threatened
the Torokina community since the
end of the war in 1945.
“It is the largest Render Safe
undertaken by the ADF, not just in
terms of explosives destroyed, but
the number of personnel involved –
almost 500 in total,” Capt Bannister
said.
“We have received exceptional
support from HMAS Choules and
the people of the Torokina district
An Australian WWII
fighting pit filled with
abandoned ordnance
before its destruction.
The Army explosive
ordnance team looks
skyward after destroying
a large cache of WWII
munitions abandoned in the
jungles of Torokina.
4.5 tonnes of high explosives left
over from WWII are destroyed off
the coast of Bougainville.
Taking no chances
STANDING on an idyllic tropical beach
in Bougainville, Cpl Blaine Askew could
almost be forgiven for not thinking about
the 39 pages in Chapter 2 of the ADF
Force Extraction Cleaning Manual, except
that it his job to know that manual and
apply the standard procedures in it.
The manual is a bible for Cpl Askew
and his staff, who went over every inch of
the Land Rovers, backhoes, four- and sixwheel-drive trucks, earthmoving and other
equipment before their return to Australia
after three weeks in the Bougainville jungle
as part of Operation Render Safe.
“The environment we worked in
contained a large amount of flora and
fauna that got caught up very easily in
vehicles, and that’s the material that
quarantine authorities don’t want tracked
back into Australia,” Cpl Askew said.
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HIGH explosive material weighing thousands
of kilograms was destroyed by a team of
explosive ordnance disposal experts off the
shores of Bougainville during Operation
Render Safe.
Photos by Cpl Matthew Bickerton
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Capt Chris Rickey
An Army Land Rover crosses
the beach at Torokina.
dangerous munitions, this year also
provided an opportunity for the
ADF’s Amphibious Task Group
to be put through its paces in an
operational environment.
Five months before the operation, a small community engagement
team worked with the Bougainville
government to educate the local people about the Render Safe mission
and the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance.
“A lot of detailed planning went
into this operation,” Capt Bannister
said.
“The planners did a fantastic
job and the mission has been a
resounding success.”
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At-sea
explosion
WWII-era munitions, including several 2000and 1000-pound bombs, were lifted from jungle
locations throughout the Torokina district and
slung beneath an MRH-90 helicopter before
being flown to a beach where they were secured
on a Navy Mexeflote for transport out to sea.
Once the munitions were at sea, responsibility
for their destruction rested with the Navy clearance diving team, led by PO Rob McDonald.
“There is no real difference when it comes
to disposing of explosives underwater; you just
need to make sure everything is waterproofed
and you prime all of your charges to ensure they
function correctly,” PO McDonald said.
The divers carefully selected a location that
would minimise impact on the environment and
tick all of the safety boxes.
“The disposal site was about 2km from the
shoreline,” PO McDonald said.
“The explosives sat a depth of 20m on a flat
sand bed. It was basically a marine desert with
nothing else there – a perfect location for us to
dive down there and do what we needed to do.”
The sub-surface detonation destroyed
4.5 tonnes of explosive remnants of war.
Sgt Jasmine Johnston
shows off Render Safe
wristbands with children
from the Torokina district.
in what has been an extremely
complex, sustained amphibious
operation.”
Launching from and supported
by Choules, the operation was not
only a multinational effort, but also
involved capabilities and specialist
skills drawn from across the ADF.
“RAN personnel worked with
the US Navy applying their skills to
handling sea mines and underwater disposals, while RAAF expertise
was of great value when working
with the air delivered weapons that
were discovered,” Capt Bannister
said.
While Render Safe’s focus is
the removal and safe destruction of
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“Seed, dirt and grit can all potentially
pose a biosecurity risk.”
This concern showed in the thoroughness of their approach – every Land Rover
had its porous equipment, such as tarpaulins, taken off and destroyed. Even wooden
items such as shovels or axes were given to
the locals, rather than risk bringing exotic
borers back to Australia.
Every grease nipple on the undercarriage of a Land Rover was dry and free of
any grease, and the battery taken out and
washed with boiling water, before it went
anywhere near the landing craft that took it
back aboard the Navy’s 16,000-tonne Bayclass landing ship, HMAS Choules.
And the work didn’t stop there.
“After the vehicles were cleaned and
inspected they were loaded back onto
Choules,” Cpl Askew said.
Choules left Bougainville en route to
Australia on November 8.
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8
NEWS
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Army Recreating history in Albany
 Soldiers support Albany Convoy Commemorative Event marking 100 years since troops left for WWI
A SELDOM used Army depot overlooking King George Sound was the
lodging for more than 150 soldiers
who invaded the Western Australian
coastal town of Albany for the
Albany Convoy Commemorative
Event from October 31 to November
2.
The event remembered the centenary of the Australian Imperial Force’s
and the New Zealand Expeditionary
Force’s departure for WWI.
The Army played an integral role
in supporting the event, during which
a convoy of navy ships from Australia,
New Zealand and Japan took part in a
symbolic departure from the town on
the same day the first convoy did 100
years ago.
Divisional Quartermaster HQ 13
Bde Maj Lyndon Jackson was the commander of the depot and oversaw the
logistics element. He said the depot had
a long history.
“It currently belongs to 11/28 Bn,
which has about 20 reserve soldiers
who parade here regularly,” he said.
“Back in the ’70s there were more
than 70 soldiers here, and the depot has
been here since 1913.”
Maj Jackson said he had to house
and feed more than 160 soldiers who
were taking part in the commemorative
event.
“We had the basic life support systems they needed to exist on a day-today basis – accommodation, showers,
portaloos, a shaving point and a 16KVA
generator should the civilian grid lose
power,” he said.
“The highlight of the weekend was
the march through the city and having
the ADF on show for the public.”
Cfn Damien Taylor, of 13CSSB,
also supported the event.
“We brought a generator with us as
a back-up contingency for the depot
should the grid go down,” he said.
Reserve MP Cpl Kurt Bryant, who
is also a Western Australian police
officer, said the MPs worked alongside
WA police during the event.
“We were there to provide a military
police presence,” he said.
“Noting the amount of uniformed
personnel in town, we didn’t have any
dramas at all, as we expected.
“We were in Albany for almost a
week in the lead-up to the event,
preparing the depot.
“Anzac history is something of
which we should all be proud. I
thoroughly enjoyed the march through
the city.”
Crowds gather to watch ships from Australia, New Zealand and Japan in King
George Sound during the Albany Convoy Commemorative Event. Inset top right,
Cpl Kurt Bryan liaises with local police during the commemorative event. Inset
bottom right, Cfn Damien Taylor connects a back-up generator at the 13 Bde depot.
Inset below, troops salute Governor-General Gen Sir Peter Cosgrove during the
commemorative parade.
Photos by AB Bonny Gassner and LS Jayson Tufrey
ANY MORE
LIKE FAMILY
AND WE’D
SEE YOU
OFF AT THE
AIRPORT.
LCdr Chloe Wootten
THE first victory for the fledgling
RAN holds a special place in the
heart of a member of the Army, but
that place is not for the victors.
Capt Yoni Levy acts as
the flag orderly for the
German flag during the
commemorative service
on Cocos Island.
Photo by LS Paul McCallum
It was a brief and brutal action,
resulting in the death of four
Australians and 134 Germans, one
of them Matrose Levy.
“He was only 20 years old when
he died, and he is commemorated
in his home town near Hanover in
Germany,” Capt Levy said.
“Being here is a connection to
my family’s history, a connection to
that period in history.”
During the ceremony at Cocos
Islands on November 9, GovernorGeneral Gen Sir Peter Cosgrove,
German Ambassador Christoph
Müller, and CN VAdm Tim Barrett
officiated at the unveiling of a
friendship mast that held replica
bells from each ship.
Capt Levy was invited to take
part in the commemorations, as the
orderly for the German flag.
He was joined by Cocos Islands
locals, descendants from both
sides, a catafalque party from the
current HMAS Sydney, and members of the Melbourne Detachment
of the RAN Band.
I’m now packing a
$1000
Ships of the first convoy in Albany Harbour.
Photo courtesy AWM
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A SPECIAL CONNECTION
Capt Yoni Levy flew all the way
to the Cocos Islands to pay tribute
to his relative, Matrose (Seaman)
Gustav Levy, who died when
SMS Emden was crippled in the
battle with HMAS Sydney (I) on
November 9, 1914.
Matrose Levy was a butcher
on board Emden when she was
on patrol in the Indian Ocean, disrupting Allied shipping during the
early stages of WWI. Unbeknown
to the German vessel, a convoy of
Australian and New Zealand ships
had left Albany on November 1,
1914, and was on its way to the
waters around Cocos Island, right
into the path of Emden.
Capt Levy, who travelled 5840km
from Canberra and was joined by
family at the commemoration, said it
was an important trip.
“You can read about these
stories, you can watch documentaries, but it’s not until you are actually
in the place that you get a feel for it,”
Capt Levy said.
Emden had landed a party
ashore to destroy the Allied cable
and wireless stations on the islands.
Communications from the ship had
been intercepted and passed to
the Allied convoy. Sydney was dispatched and subsequently caused
the captain of Emden to run the
German ship into a reef.
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NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
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Army NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
11
103 Bty gets air mobile
 M777 Howitzers are lifted into the sky over Darwin as the battery prepares to move back into ready phase
“
Lt Isabelle Cowley
itself and an amazing experience for all
involved
“The downwash produced by the
ROBERTSON Barracks parade ground
was the site of an unusual training CH-47D was really turbulent,” he said.
“If it wasn’t for the two guys holding
activity when the gunners of 103 Bty,
8/12 Regt and aircrews of C Sqn, 5 Avn you in place, you wouldn’t be able to
to rig the gun up.”
Regt, lifted two of the battery’s M777 stand
With a thumbs-up from the
Howitzers into the sky.
loadmaster, the Chinook and M777
Over the three
lifted off to conduct
hours of air-mobile
a 15-minute flight
training on October
circuit before
20, the CH-47D
returning to start
Chinook helicopter
again.
repeatedly lifted
OC 103 Bty
the guns, offering
Maj Wade Cooper
valuable experience
said the training was
for the gunners.
beneficial for all
The training
parties involved.
enhanced skills in
“In 2015, 1 Bde
rigging and preparing
will move back into
a howitzer for airlift.
the readying phase,
Normally located
with a significant
in Townsville, the
increase in field
Chinook became
exercises,” he said.
available when it
“Air-mobile
was brought over
training has set
to support Exercise
103 Bty up to
Kowari.
conduct air mobile
Taking advantage
operations in
–
Gnr
Jacob
Aitchison,
of the opportunity,
the field.”
103 Bty, 8/12 Regt
the gunners were able
to make the most of
the support and time dedicated by the
aircrews to complete the training.
The extensive preparations for the
flights involved securing all parts of the
howitzers and fitting the correct aerial
delivery equipment.
The detachment then moved into the
more strenuous part of the training –
dealing with the considerable rotorwash
of a Chinook.
Ready to receive the CH-47D and
connect the rigging equipment, three
gunners stood on the M777 with their
feet and legs secured by two other
members of the detachment.
Gnr Jacob Aitchison said hooking the
M777 to the helicopter was a fight in
The downwash
produced by the
CH-47D was really
turbulent. If it
wasn’t for the
two guys holding
you in place, you
wouldn’t be able
to stand to rig the
gun up.
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CH-47D Chinook helicopter
from C Sqn, 5 Avn Regt, takes
flight with an underslung
M777 from the Robertson
Barracks parade ground.
Right, gunners with 103 Bty
get ready for the lift.
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12
NEWS
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
VC recipients meet Queen
 Soldiers and families meet royals at Buckingham Palace during reunion
Capt Darren Elder
Cpl Dan Keighran,
VC, and his wife,
Kathryn, meet
Queen Elizabeth II
during a reception at
Buckingham Palace,
London, during the
28th Victoria Cross
and George Cross
Association reunion.
Inset, Australian and
New Zealand VC
and GC recipients
with the Queen and
her husband Prince
Phillip.
AUSTRALIA’S four surviving
Victoria Cross (VC) recipients and
the families of fallen VC recipients converged on London for four
days in late October to join other
Commonwealth VC and George
Cross (GC) recipients as part of a
biennial reunion.
Joining Vietnam War veteran Keith
Payne and Afghanistan War VC recipients Cpls Mark Donaldson and Ben
Roberts-Smith for the first time at the
reunion were Cpl Dan Keighran, VC,
and Doug and Kaye Baird, representing their son, Cpl Cameron Baird,
VC, who was posthumously awarded
the medal in February.
They attended receptions at
Buckingham Palace and St James’s
Palace, and a memorial service at
St Martin-in-the-Fields.
Mr and Mrs Baird were invited to
Buckingham Palace for a private audience with the Queen. They presented
her with a 2 Cdo Regt engraved
Australian Army stiletto letter-opener
to mark the occasion.
“The Queen was very gracious,
asking about Cameron, his VC
action and his mates at 2 Cdo Regt,”
Mr Baird said.
“We would have loved it if
Cameron was able to be here himself,
but, under the circumstances, we hope
we’ve done him proud.
“I’m sure he’d be up there
laughing about all the fuss – he
was never one for the spotlight.”
Mr and Mrs Baird also presented
Prince Harry with a Cam’s Cause
T-shirt, the charity created in Cpl
Baird’s name to raise funds for the
Commando Welfare Trust.
“Prince Harry knew all about
Cameron and 2 Cdo Regt and, being a
big supporter of veterans’ charities, he
was thrilled to be given the T-shirt,”
Mr Baird said.
Photos by Gordon McLeod
and Andrew Tunnard,
Imperial War Museum
The 28th VC and GC Association
reunion drew together eight VC and
15 GC recipients from Australia,
Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand and
the UK.
Awarded the VC in November
2012 for his actions at Derapat in
southern Afghanistan, Cpl Dan
Keighran attended his first reunion.
“It’s incredibly humbling to talk
to all the other recipients and hear
their stories,” Cpl Keighran said.
“It seems quite unreal to be
considered part of this group, to
stand alongside them – I don’t think
I’ll get used to it.
“It has been really great to
be here this year and to meet
everybody.”
This year’s reunion was the
second for Cpl Mark Donaldson,
VC, since he was awarded the
honour in January 2009.
“I missed the last reunion because
I was serving in Afghanistan, so
2010 was the last one I’ve been
to, but it honestly feels like only a
couple of months since I saw most of
these people,” Cpl Donaldson said.
“It’s a bit like Christmas time,
when family all gets to come
together, share stories, have a catchup, and it’s just like it was the last
time you saw them.”
Other Australians to attend the
28th VC and GC Association reunion
were Michael Pratt, GC, a Victoria
Police officer who intervened in a
bank robbery unarmed, and Lady
Cutler, the widow of Sir Roden
Cutler, VC.
Only 100 Australians have been
awarded the VC since it was created
by Queen Victoria in 1856.
The GC was created in 1940 and
is the highest award for gallantry by
civilians and military personnel when
not in the presence of the enemy.
CPL BAIRD’S PARENTS VISIT AMAB
THE parents of VC recipient
Cpl Cameron Baird, Doug and
Kaye Baird, visited Al Minhad Air
Base in the United Arab Emirates
on the way back to Australia after
attending the 28th Victoria Cross
and George Cross Association
reunion in London.
They met with ADF personnel
and visited the base’s memorial
plinth commemorating Australia’s
41 Afghanistan War fallen soldiers.
The couple went to the
Australian domestic compound at
the base, which is now known as
Camp Baird in memory of their son.
Mr and Mrs Baird laid a
wreath at the Camp Baird
memorial during their tour of the
base with Commander JTF 633
Maj-Gen Craig Orme.
The parents of VC recipient Cpl Cameron Baird, Doug and
Kaye Baird, lay a wreath at the Camp Baird memorial at
Al Minhad Air Base. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson
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Army NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Soldiers parade
in past Army
uniforms.
Fireworks light the
sky, marking the end
of festivities in the
8/9RAR military tattoo at
Gallipoli Barracks.
Photos by Cpl David Cotton
Above,
Pte Tom
Beardsley
with the
battalion’s
mascot, Cpl
John ‘Stan
the Ram’
MacArthur IV.
Right, vintage
military
vehicles on
display at the
tattoo.
All the
bells and
whistles
 8/9RAR puts on a show in military tattoo
Cpl Nick Wiseman
SOLDIERS of 8/9RAR have held
one of Australia’s biggest military
tattoos to celebrate the unit’s 41st
birthday.
Nearly 2000 spectators watched
as 8/9RAR was joined in its celebrations on October 31 by fellow
7 Bde units, with the largest gathering of former, serving and associated pipers and drummers in years.
CO 8/9RAR Lt-Col Jim
Hammett said the aim of the celebration was to reinforce the links
and relationships between the modern battalion, families, friends and
veterans.
“A military tattoo was selected
as the best activity to commemorate
the 41 years that have passed since
the linking of two battalions,” he
said.
“It also allowed the battalion
to showcase our recently re-raised
pipes and drums, and to expose
all battalion members to being
part of a unique and extraordinary
ceremonial event.”
The tattoo consisted of a number
of military demonstrations, an
historical walk-through-time of
Australia’s major military conflicts,
Read
online
www.defence.gov.au/
news/armynews
military music, highland dancers
and a parade featuring the entire
battalion and the ever-feisty unit
mascot, Cpl John ‘Stan the Ram’
MacArthur VI.
XO 8/9RAR Maj Craig
Cunningham said as word began to
spread around the country about the
tattoo, pipers and drummers of old
emerged from the woodwork keen
to be part of the three-hour event.
“The massed pipes and drums
consisting of more than 100 people
were a sight and sound to behold
and something rarely seen on such a
scale,” he said.
“The amount of historical
vehicles that participated in the
walk-through-time display was
beyond words.”
Vehicles such as the M3 Stuart
tank, which was used throughout
the Pacific during WWII, were
proudly on display, as well as Bren
carriers, a Matilda tank, Dingo
scout car, Willy’s jeep and a radio
truck.
Modern vehicles such as the
Unimog, ASLAV and Bushmaster
were also on show.
A Centurion tank completed the
Vietnam walk-through, along with
soldiers and living history group
volunteers dressed as soldiers from
all of the major campaigns from
WWI to Afghanistan.
All units from 7 Bde provided
displays for the crowd. The 1
Regt RAA band and the massed
pipes and drums, which featured
108 musicians from 11 pipe bands,
provided musical support.
With many former soldiers and
battalion commanders in attendance, it was only fitting that DCA
Maj-Gen Gus Gilmore reviewed the
parade, having served in the unit as
a lieutenant early in his career.
John Schumann, former lead
singer of folk-band Redgum, was
on hand to sing his iconic I Was
Only 19 in front of the crowd in
honour of all the veterans both on
display and spectating.
Maj Cunningham said although
the unit held the tattoo this year to
celebrate its birthday, he hoped it
would be the first of many.
“After seeing how successful it
was, it’s hoped that a future tattoo
may be planned or coordinated at
a higher level potentially using a
civilian facility,” he said.
“This will allow for more
people to get involved and see what
we can do.”
Pipes and drums
performed as part of
the festivities.
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Forces Command
Victoria Barracks
Paddington NSW 2011
Ph: 02 8335 5616
Fax: (02) 8335 6506
phillip.nelson@defence.gov.au
13
14
NEWS
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
On tour for troops
November 20, 2014
Army 1RAR Band members
and Townsville-based
country singer Jade
Holland play to
deployed personnel
at Kabul Airport.
Below left, Ms
Holland performs
with members of the
1RAR Band.
Top left, US Army
Specialist Joe
Oneto sings with
the 1RAR Band
during the Forces
Entertainment Tour.
Sydneybased
rock
singer
Virginia
Lillye.
 Aussie entertainers and Army bandies perform for deployed personnel in Middle East
Cpl Max Bree
DEPLOYED soldiers got a dose of
rock ‘n’ roll and a hit of comedy during a Forces Entertainment Tour of
the Middle East Region (MER) from
October 22-27.
1RAR musicians backed country
singer Jade Holland and rocker Virginia
Lillye, while Melbourne-based comedian Adam Rozenbachs had the crowds
laughing with his stand-up routine.
People were in early for the first
show at Australia’s main MER base,
taking up seats as the band started their
sound check.
Musn Nathan Moore, on the
keyboard, said the show was a good
shake-out for the band.
“We’d just finished in-country
training so we didn’t have time for a lot
of rehearsing,” he said.
“I think it was the show that was
going to get the cobwebs out.
“We weren’t sure how it was going
to be received, but because there were a
lot of Australians there everyone loved
it.”
Comedian Adam Rozenbachs
observed a few odd things base personnel might not have noticed.
“There’s a list of things you can’t
put in the toilet, like ‘sanitary napkins’
and ‘rubbish’ and one of them was
‘clothes’,” he said.
“Clearly if you’ve read it that many
times you don’t question it, but who’s
putting clothes in the toilet and what
Members of the 1RAR Band and
Townsville-based country singer Jade
Holland play to deployed personnel
at Camp Baker in Kandahar during
the Forces Entertainment Tour.
Photos by Cpl Max Bree
happened to make them put it on a
list? I know your jumper looks pretty
s**t, but maybe just put it in the bin.”
Americans joined Aussies on the
lawn at Camp Baker in Kandahar for
a barbecue and a night of Australian
entertainment.
Musn Jas Mitchell, on the
saxophone, got the chance to meet
some of the audience before the show
started.
“We’d heard the guys there had a
big 24 hours before we arrived, but
they really got into the performance
and started moving and dancing,” he
said.
“It’s a bit of a push, but when it
happens you know people are really
getting into what they’re listening to.”
The tour members flew to Kabul
before taking a 1am US Chinook
flight to ISAF HQ and unloaded
speakers, lights and instruments from
a running helo.
A garden outside the HQ building
hosted the show where guitarist LCpl
Dave Andrews and the band easily
found their groove.
“We had been on the move with a
lack of sleep so we were just focused
on getting the job done,” he said.
“At the end of the day we’re
entertainers. No matter what’s going
on in your life, if you’re crook or
tired, you can’t let the audience know
or they’ll feel less entertained.”
During the last show at Kabul
Airport, the Deputy Commander
of Australians in Afghanistan, Col
Susan Coyle, and several Aussie
women, danced on stage during a
rendition of Sisters Are Doin’ It for
Themselves by the Eurythmics.
MORALE BOOST
FORCES Entertainment Tours provide
a unique service helping to maintain
the morale of our deployed forces who
are well removed from the comforts
of home.
Australian entertainers have volunteered their time to visit and perform
to Australians serving overseas on
operations since the Vietnam War.
CO Forces Entertainment
Lt-Col Ian Robinson said following the
1999 concert in East Timor, Gen Peter
Cosgrove, when he was CDF in 2003,
was instrumental in creating an organisation that arranged and conducted
entertainment tours to the troops.
“All entertainers volunteer their
time as a philanthropic gesture and
are not paid for their services,” he said.
Despite this, there is no shortage
of entertainers volunteering to contribute their talents, with many entertainers being involved in multiple tours.
One such entertainer who has volunteered more than once is comedian
and media personality Lehmo.
“I’d go on every tour if I could,”
Lehmo said.
“I’ve seen how grateful they are
and by seeing and understanding
what ADF personnel are doing
overseas is a huge buzz.”
Many other popular acts have been
attracted to the tours in recent years,
including Hamish and Andy, Bliss n
Eso, Mick Molloy, Charlie Pickering,
Ian Moss and Kevin ‘Bloody’ Wilson.
Lt-Col Robinson said he was continually amazed at the way in which
the entertainers embraced the tours.
“I enjoy watching their reactions
during the tour,” Lt-Col Robinson said.
“Entertainers are accompanied by
Defence military and civilian personnel
who help to ensure they are safe
during their journey.”
While the tours are a fantastic
opportunity for the entertainers, they
are extremely important in maintaining
the morale of our deployed forces.
Comedian Fred Lang recalls one
conversation he had with an Australian
solider following his concert in the
Middle East.
“One of them just said, ‘Thanks
mate. For the last 20 minutes I forgot
where I was’.”
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15
Show must go on –
even in indirect fire
Cpl Max Bree
AN indirect-fire alarm wasn’t even
enough to destroy the mood during
the final forces entertainment show
at Kabul Airport on October 27.
Rocker Virginia Lillye was
halfway through a chorus of You
Oughta Know by Alanis Morissette
when the alarm sounded.
“I saw half the crowd slowly
disperse and I thought maybe I
shouldn’t have done that song,” she
said.
“Then I heard the siren when
the music stopped and one of the
commando guys lifted me off
stage and carried me away. I felt
like I was Whitney Huston in The
Bodyguard.”
With the sound from an amp and
drum kit, 1RAR Band bass player
Cpl Dave Matthews said he didn’t
hear the siren.
“I saw someone in uniform
run towards the Australian Deputy
Commander to say something
and by the look on her face it was
serious,” he said.
“That’s when I realised something was going on. From there
everything got shut down and the
drummer yelled out ‘that’s it’.
“Then I was off the stage and on
my guts around the corner.”
As Cpl Matthews lay on the
ground he realised something
essential was missing.
“My weapon was secured off
stage, so my priority after the
actions on was to get to it,” he said.
“Once I had my weapon, that’s
when the RSM was saying ‘get down
to the mess’.”
Later the ‘all clear’ sounded with
two rockets reported to have landed
harmlessly on the other side of the
airport.
“Then people started clapping
quickly in time, like they do at
the cricket, to get the atmosphere
going and get us back on the stage,”
Cpl Matthews said.
“I said ‘let’s play Stir It Up’ by
Bob Marley and Mick (WO2 Mick
Beeton), who was kind of the band
leader, said ‘yeah let’s do that’.”
LCpl Dave Andrews on guitar
knew the chords and tune, but not the
words.
“I didn’t really know the lyrics so
I just freestyled,” he said. “Singing
‘your little rockets can’t stop the
party’.
“They loved it. Everyone was pretty pumped from the siren going off.”
During the song someone in the
audience was heard to say, “Look at
the 1RAR boys, straight back into it”.
Virginia soon returned to the
stage and smashed into a rendition
of AC/DC’s Highway to Hell.
“I was a bit shaken, but it
would’ve been un-Australian if I
didn’t get back up there,” she said.
“These guys put their lives out
there every day, the least I can do is
get back up and sing.”
Workplace Remuneration
Arrangement 2014+
Pay outcomes for members
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NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
230686
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16
NEWS
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Army 17
NEWS
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
A marathon effort in States
Sprs from 23 Spt Sqn, 1CER, pick up a
load of rubbish during the Darwin City
Council’s annual cyclone clean up.
 Runners put their bodies to the test on the streets of Washington for Marine Corps Marathon
Cpl Mark Doran
From left, Maj
David Thomson,
Bdr Mitchell
Hancock, Sgt Tania
Milligan and WO2
Steve Abbott after
the Marine Corps
Marathon.
FIVE wounded, injured or ill soldiers joined close to 30,000 people
in the 39th annual Marine Corps
Marathon (MCM) in Washington
DC on October 26.
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During the 42km race, known as
the People’s Marathon, they were supported by seven other soldiers who
formed the Australian Army team.
The MCM starts in Arlington,
crosses into Georgetown and across
the National Mall before passing the
Washington Monument and ending at
the Iwo Jima Memorial.
This year the race attracted many
disabled veterans and more than
100 wheelchair and hand-cyclist
competitors in the race.
For team manager WO1 Gary
Pattrick, of DGPers-A, and Cpl
Cristine Ashcroft, of APAC-Syd, the
2014 MCC was their 103rd marathon.
WO1 Pattrick said being a part of
the team opened his eyes to the Army
Support to Wounded, Injured and Ill
Program (SWIIP) and taught him a lot
about the people involved in it.
“A couple of our guys were
dealing with the effects of IED blast
injuries and for them to be a part of
this team has done wonders for their
rehabilitation,” WO1 Pattrick said.
“They opened up over the 10 days
we were here and the MCM gave
them a chance to meet other wounded
warriors including Brits, Danes and
Americans.
“The course is world class, though
no prize money is offered, and nearly
every marine from Marine Corps Base
Quantico was involved in the MCM as
they either ran or supported the race.
“It was an absolutely incredible
event and shows how we can support
our wounded warriors.”
SWIIP was established in 2008
to support the health and welfare
of soldiers, regardless of how they
were physically or psychologically
wounded, injured or became ill.
The MCM partnered with other
charity organisations, including the
Allied Forces Foundation, which
support military personnel and their
families.
Cpl Ashcroft loves marathons and
said one of the main reasons she ran in
the MCM was to be with like-minded
people.
“I have PTSD and suffered a
severe shoulder injury from my 2010
deployment to Afghanistan,” Cpl
Ashcroft said.
“People can’t see PTSD, but every
day is a struggle. I was terrified by
the thought of going to Washington
and leaving my comfort zone, but the
Australian team gelled, they were an
amazing group of people, and we all
learnt a lot about ourselves.
“I have made friends for life. The
support crew I ran with did not leave
my side as I have trouble with large
crowds, but we were treated with so
much respect I felt safe the whole
time.
“The trip to the US gave me a lot
more confidence in myself and I hope
I can be involved in the next MCM or
the Invictus Games.”
Bdr Mitchell Hancock, of 4 Regt
RAA, was wounded during his deployment to Afghanistan with Mentoring
Task Force 4 in 2012.
Along with PTSD, his blast wounds
from an IED include a mild traumatic
brain injury, hearing loss and facial,
dental and back injuries.
In the three months of preparation,
Bdr Hancock went from not running at
all to running the marathon distance.
“The MCM was an emotional
race,” he said.
“The people of Washington DC
were amazing in the way they supported the troops. The crowd was packed
three people deep for the 42km.
“When I hit the wall at about halfway their support was inspirational
and helped me drive through.”
The marathon was also special for
Bdr Hancock because he enlisted just
after 9/11.
“When I crossed the Potomac River
and saw the Pentagon it helped spur
me on to finish the race and reminded
me why I joined the Army,” he said.
“It means a lot to me to be a part
of SWIIP because I get to meet people
who have been through what I have
been through.
“Even though we may not know
each other, we can easily connect with
each other and talk about anything.
“I also joined Brig Cheryl Pearce,
of AHQ, at a function in Washington
DC, held by the Semper Fi Fund,
where I met many wounded warriors
and the Medal of Honour recipient
Kyle Carpenter.”
Bdr Hancock is continuing his
rehabilitation at the Soldier Recovery
Centre in Townsville.
“With over 40 years experience we are your wealth management experts”
Capt Kris Gardiner
DARWIN and Palmerston’s
annual pre-cyclone clean up is
always a big job, with everything
from cardboard boxes through to
wrecked boats removed to reduce
the threat of flying debris in a
storm.
While the city councils do a
sterling job in community streets,
getting to residences on Defence
property is a little trickier.
Enter the sappers from the
Participants turn onto Rock Creek
Parkway in Washington DC, during the
Marine Corps Marathon on October 26.
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rubbish and took it to the recyclers,”
he said.
“The council workers were great
guys and good to work with.”
Lt Daniel Foley said the engineers were more than happy to help
the community with the monumental task to remove the rubbish.
“Defence is a big part of the
community in the Top End,” he said.
“Helping to remove material that
could threaten life in a cyclone is
the least we can do. Protecting a
community extends well beyond
putting on a uniform.”
The Dune
Photo by US LCpl
Timothy Turner
CREATE AN IMPACT
4 SQN COMBAT CONTROL TEAMS
Robertson Barracks’ 1CER, who
joined the clean-up effort.
Over two days from October 13,
the soldiers cleared out the service
residences on Larrakeyah Barracks
and Defence Establishment
Berrimah.
Using a Mack truck, a 20-tonne
trailer and a front-end loader, the
sappers worked with Darwin City
Council to remove broken and
unwanted household items.
Spr Kevin Bird, of 23 Spt Sqn,
said the task went smoothly.
“We separated the steel from the
Finishers are
awarded their
medal by active
duty officers at
the end of the
marathon.
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survey collects information on who
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20
FEATURES
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Army November 20, 2014
Army November 20, 2014
21
FEATURES
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Soldiers of 1 Bde battle it out in military skills comp
Aussie diggers and US marines compete for prestige in the 1 Bde
military skills competition in Darwin, Capt Kris Gardiner reports.
Pte Lauren Slabbert, of
B Coy, 1 MP Bn, crawls
under barbed wire.
B
ATTLING heat, bulldust and stifling
humidity, 80 soldiers and US marines
competed to determine who was the
best unit in the 1 Bde military skills
competition.
Held from October 5-10, the competition put the
teams – representing all 1 Bde units, 17 Bde and
the US marines – through a series of activities testing all-corps operational skills, fieldcraft, physical
fitness, endurance, teamwork and marksmanship.
Honours at the end of the competition fell to the
team from 7RAR, followed closely by 5RAR and
the US marines.
RSM 1 Bde WO1 David Allen said the event
was an opportunity to promote friendly competition.
“The competition is one of the most enduring
events in the brigade calendar,” WO1 Allan said.
“It is almost as old as the brigade itself, which
celebrated its centenary earlier this year.
“It promotes healthy rivalry between the brigade
units, which range across a number of corps’
specialities.”
During the event, the soldiers participated in a
number of skills assessments and short-notice tasks
designed to test leadership and problem-solving
skills.
Working with minimal sleep, the soldiers completed obstacle courses, communications tests and
range shoots at a number of locations, including
the Mt Bundey and Kangaroo Flats training areas,
before finishing at Robertson Barracks.
Despite the representation from a broad range
of units, the final results of the competition were
close, demonstrating a consistent level of fitness
and skills.
WO1 Allen said the team from 7RAR overcame
the climate advantage of the other teams to prevail
at the finish.
“Darwin’s weather tests every soldier based at
Robertson Barracks daily,” he said.
“The soldiers from the Adelaide-based battalion
overcame this significant hurdle to take victory.
“Their win is a testament to their excellent
preparation and physical fitness.”
7RAR section commander LCpl Jarrad Gouma
praised the members of his team for their commitment to the challenge.
“I am very proud of how the section worked
together throughout the entire competition,” LCpl
Gouma said.
“We had little to no dramas, allowing us to complete all stands to the best of our ability.”
The soldiers’ results from the 1 Bde military
skills competition will contribute to the 2014
Commander’s Trophy competition.
The Commander’s Trophy, held this month, also
incorporated the results from the brigade’s athletics and swimming carnivals, cross-country and
drill competitions, recognising the premier unit in
1 Bde.
Armd Regt, takes
Tpr Lee McGill, of 1
iper shoot.
part in a simulated sn
Soldiers complete
a stretcher carry.
gear.
A US marine checks his
Special offer for ADF Personnel courtesy of
LCpl Lisa Miceli, of
7RAR, conducts a lowprofile move over a
narrow walkway
during the final phase
of the 1 Bde military
skills competition.
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22
FEATURES
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Meeting the locals
Getting to know the Afghan people is
something one warrant officer is enjoying on
his latest deployment, Cpl Max Bree reports.
T
RAINING officers in the
Afghan National Army
(ANA) brings with it
great insight into the
cultural aspects of the nation, as
WO2 Luke Burgess has found at
the ANA Officer Academy.
“The ANA is based around very
strong religious practices and it’s
important that it is seen as a religious
army,” WO2 Burgess said.
“Military operations are affected
by having to stop for prayer times
and their leadership values are very
similar to the leadership values of
Islam.”
WO2 Burgess works as a mentor
to Afghan instructors at the academy
to help bring out their best teaching
methods.
“We can come up with this ‘you
beaut’ plan, but when you put it in
context it’s not necessarily the best
solution for the ANA,” he said.
“We must work together to carefully plan around religious practices.”
During the Muslim holy month of
Ramadan, where no food or drink is
allowed during daylight, only morning classroom lessons were conducted to avoid fatigue.
Normally posted to 4 Regt RAA,
WO2 Burgess has experience as a
recruit instructor at Kapooka and
WO2 Luke Burgess discusses
training with an Afghan instructor
at the ANA Officer Academy.
Photo by Cpl Max Bree
has also served at RMC Duntroon.
In Afghanistan, WO2 Burgess mentors an Afghan platoon commander and CSM in the academy’s 1st
Kandak (battalion) that graduated in
September.
He said despite not doing much
PT in their last term, cadets were
very keen to get moving.
“The fact they can easily take
on the mountains around the academy during a navigation exercise is
a credit to their robustness,” WO2
Burgess said.
“If you give them a physical test
they’ll go at it like a bull at a gate.
“Someone like myself might conserve energy at first but these guys go
100 per cent at it.”
WO2 Burgess was last in
Afghanistan with Mentoring Task
Force 2 in 2011, but wasn’t as close
with the locals back then.
“I didn’t have much face-to-face
time with the Afghan people,” he
said.
“The most rewarding experience
is having that relationship this time.
“Also the interpreters are fantastic, but they’re not just here to
provide translations. They give us
cultural advice. They’re definitely
very helpful to us as we’re working
towards the same goals.”
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Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
FEATURES
23
Sgt Lloyd Harris is
a mentor to Afghan
instructors at the ANA
Officer Academy.
Photo by Cpl Janine Fabre
A mentor at the ANA Officer Academy is helping instructors refine
their teaching methods, Cpl Max Bree reports.
Real
progress
K
EEPING locals on-side
and finding the real
enemy was essential
for the first graduating
cadets during one of their final
exercises at the Afghan National
Army (ANA) Officer Academy
in September.
exercise and these guys worked
hard through the day and night.”
When mentoring instructors at
the academy, Sgt Harris said his
role was to guide them rather than
take over lessons.
“We let them lead on it; all the
ideas are their ideas,” he said.
“That’s all the planning,
Overseeing the counterresources and knowledge.
insurgency scenario was Sgt
“We just try to get them in the
Lloyd Harris, a mentor helping
right direction and keep them movthe Afghan instructors refine their
ing forward, because with training
teaching methods.
it’s easy to get off track when the
“When it came to dealing with
program or timings change.”
the local population, the cadets
Sgt Harris and his British-led
were awesome,” he said.
team also encourage the Afghan
“They were straight into it; they instructors to take a new approach
obviously know how to interact
to teaching.
with their own people.
“We’re trying to get them to do
“It was a three-week
a lot more practical work,” he said.
The mentors were not trying to
create a Western army, but mainly
trying to make sure the basics
were understood, as Sgt Harris
witnessed during a company attack
run by the cadets.
“They understood the basics of
the attack – it wasn’t perfect, but
they definitely got it,” he said.
Sgt Harris said many cadets
had a good grasp of English.
“They are really receptive to us
and interested in the knowledge we
have,” he said.
“If you ask where they’re
from, many will just say ‘I’m an
Afghan’.
“They’re proud of serving in
their defence force, protecting their
country and families.”
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24
FEATURES
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Assimilating
Afghanistan
Army November 20, 2014
in
Making friends in Afghanistan is easy for one
sergeant, Cpl Max Bree reports.
S
HE may not speak Dari, but
some women in the Afghan
National Army (ANA)
felt Aussie Sgt Shuhey
Wettenhall looked enough like a
Hazara to make quick friends with
her.
babies or younger sisters to work, so we
spend time playing with the kids. Just
showing an interest in their lives builds
that rapport.”
Sgt Wettenhall has a catering corps
background and is normally posted as
an instructor at RMC Duntroon. She
said she wasn’t used to young children
“With my ethnicity I found it easy
in the workplace.
to relate to the Hazara women,” Sgt
“Normally you wouldn’t bring your
Wettenhall said.
kids
to work where we’re from,” she
“Because they have such strong ties
said.
to their culture, you can really relate
“But sometimes it’s easier for them
just based on appearances.”
if someone can’t look after the kids or
Sgt Wettenhall, who has a
they’re sick.
Vietnamese and Filipino background,
“Some of them come to work in
works as a mentor to female staff at the
little ANA uniforms – it’s incredibly
ANA Officer Academy outside Kabul.
cute.”
Working with female British and
To enter the academy, the female
Danish mentors, Sgt Wettenhall mentors
cadets
must be unmarried, with a Year
Afghan officers and senior NCOs who
are instructing the first tolay (company) 12-level education, but Sgt Wettenhall
said this was comparable to Year 9 or 10
of women cadets.
in Australia.
But the mentors can’t just get
“Lateral thinking and planning are
straight to work – they need to build a
foreign concepts to them,” she said.
relationship with the instructors.
“It’s hard to teach lateral thinking
“We spend a lot of time talking over
but they’re very keen and appear very
chai,” Sgt Wettenhall said.
“Half the bridmal (senior NCOs) are motivated to learn.”
The female tolay Sgt Wettenhall
not literate so we’ll spend a lot of our
mentors is the first to be accepted at the
free time trying to raise their literacy
ANA Officer Academy and finished the
levels in Dari, as well as English.
“Some of the women also bring their first term of training in October.
Australian Government
Veterans and Veterans Families
Counselling Service
Sgt Shuhey
Wettenhall
(right and
inset) helps
ANA officer
Lt Fatima
rectify a
stoppage
on an M-16
rifle at the
ANA Officer
Academy.
Photos by
Cpl Max Bree and
Cpl Janine Fabre
www.vvcs.gov.au
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
FEATURES
25
In memory of the fallen
Soldiers honour personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice, during Remembrance Day service, Capt Jay Ellul reports.
A
USTRALIA’S newest
war memorial was
filled by 3 Bde soldiers
on Remembrance Day
when 3RAR members provided a
catafalque party at the Afghanistan
Avenue of Honour in Yungaburra,
Queensland.
Brigade commander Brig Roger
Noble and Bde RSM WO1 Bruce
Walker attended the service on
November 11, which signifies the end
of WWI.
Brig Noble said it was an honour
to be at the service at the Avenue of
Honour that memorialises the soldiers
who were killed in Afghanistan.
“The war in Afghanistan has
been Australia’s longest war, and
Australian soldiers have been
wounded and died there, and
their memorials housed along this
avenue ensure these men are forever
remembered and honoured,” Brig
Noble said.
“3 Bde soldiers are still in
Afghanistan today. Their commitment
to defending Australia and her
interests are as strong today as they
were in 1915 when this brigade’s
soldiers were the first ashore at
Gallipoli.”
Sgt Christopher Mapstone, who was
a guard for the catafalque party, said he
felt privileged to take part in the service
and be among the community on such a
special military day.
“Townsville soldiers have a
3 Bde soldiers take
part in the Remembrance Day service
at the Afghanistan
Avenue of Honour in
Yungaburra, north
Queensland.
Photos by Capt Jay Ellul
great relationship with the north
Queensland community and I, for
one, like contributing to the region I
live in,” Sgt Mapstone said.
Brig Noble also said Remembrance Day would have more
prominence for the next four years,
during the Centenary of Anzac. “We
will see Remembrance Day get bigger over the next four years, and in
2018 we will commemorate the century of the end of the ‘war to end all
wars’,” he said.
The Afghanistan Avenue of
Honour sits aside Lake Tinaroo
in Yungaburra and was created
by Gordon Chuck, the father of
Australian soldier Pte Ben Chuck,
who was killed in Afghanistan in
2010.
The avenue opened in June 2013
and memorialises the personnel who
have been wounded and injured, and
those who have paid the ultimate
sacrifice in Australia’s longest war.
The explosive detection dogs
that have died are also represented
at the site.
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26
FEATURES
14,642
push
ups for
charity
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Blood: a lifeline
Army to a brighter future

Finding a ‘new normal’
With the Defence Blood Challenge 2014 winding up,
two soldiers share their stories about why donating
blood is so important, Cpl Mark Doran reports.
A
Brig Bill Sowry
completes a set
of push ups at
Australia House
in London.
T FIRST, they thought it was
asthma. It began with the
small symptoms of a tight
chest and a slight cough.
Brig Sowry said that meant 14,642
Sgt Dave Morley
push-ups in total, an average of 637 a
MAJ Mohit Whig, of the 5th Gorkha day from November 1.
“This fundraising challenge will
Rifles, and three of his jawans
help provide for a period of residen(diggers) were killed in action on
tial rehabilitative care at the Alfred
June 4, 1997, when their jeep was
Hospital in Melbourne,” he said.
blown up by militants in the Indian
“The care will give Fateh self-mainstate of Jammu and Kashmir.
tenance and care skills that will give
He left behind two boys, Zorawar,
him greater independence and relieve
and a baby son, Fateh, who was born
some pressure on his mother.
with severe spina bifida and needed
“Costs will cover airfares from
constant care, preventing Maj Whig’s
India
to Melbourne, and a few weeks
wife, Tina, from working.
residential and medical costs.”
A few years earlier, Maj Whig had
Brig Sowry said he was using the
been appointed to sponsor then-Maj
Bill Sowry when he attended the Indian Just Giving Donation website to collect
Army Staff College in the Nilgiri Hills donations.
“While a total target of £25,000
and to help him ease into the course.
(AU $45,800) is required, I am setting
Brig Bill Sowry, now Head of
my initial target at £5000 (AU $9160)
Australian Defence Staff in London,
as if I don’t make the target I set they
recently regained contact with Maj
do not collect any of the
Whig’s family and found Fateh was in
need of specialist rehabilitation care to donations,” he said.
Having raised this minimum he is
be able to self-help.
now pushing, literally, for the lot.
He has embarked on an ambitious
“Obviously I hope to raise this and
effort to raise money for this and has
much more,” he said.
pledged to do four push-ups for every
kilometre ridden in this year’s Tour de
France, and to complete that challenge To make a donation go to www.justgiving.
com/yimby/puff#
in 23 days.
But the condition progressed to the
point of coughing up blood during a
physical training session.
During X-rays, the doctor diagnosed cancer in the right lung and, after
more tests, the medical staff decided to
remove the lung altogether.
The diagnosis of cancer is stressful and confronting for anyone, but for
Pte Daniel Althaus, of 16 Avn Bde, it
became more frightening when complications arose on the day after his fourhour operation in February.
“I started haemorrhaging and lost
nearly three-and-a-half litres of blood,”
Pte Althaus said.
“I was very sick, but as soon as I
signed the consent form there were nurses ready to plug-in units of blood.
“Then I just watched them squeeze
four units into my cannula before they
started my second operation, during
which I received more blood.
“It still wasn’t over, though, as I
ended up in the intensive care unit for
10 days.
“If I hadn’t received the donated
blood I wouldn’t be here today, which is
why the Defence Blood Challenge is so
important – it can save lives on a daily
basis.”
Since his dramatic start to the year,
it has been a long road to recovery for
Pte Althaus. He was just about to begin
his initial employment training as a driver when he became ill.
“I’m now working as the brigade
commander’s driver as I continue my
rehabilitation,” he said.
“It’s a massive change to train with
only one lung and I have to put in a lot
more work to keep my level of fitness.
“I am training in cardio and strength
every day and passed my BFA in
September.
“My remaining lung has moved over
and grown – it’s like a super lung.”
Pte Althaus said he was extremely
happy with the support he and his family
were given by Defence.
“Alexandria, my fiancé, is studying
in Brisbane and I had my operation in
Melbourne, but Army moved heaven
and earth so she could be by my side,”
he said.
“I’m now cancer-free, but still need
to have regular check ups.
“Next year, fingers crossed, I will
finish my training and crack on with my
career.
“Eventually I would like to be
involved with Army aviation.”
This year marks the sixth year of
the Defence Blood Challenge, which is
conducted annually from September to
November in support of the Red Cross
Blood Service.
Have you received a posting order
but are yet to submit your AFR?
In order for Toll Transitions to commence making arrangements for your relocation, you need to submit your
Application for Relocation (AFR).
When completing your AFR you will be requested to enter a preferred uplift date. You need to understand that
under the Whole of Relocation Cost (WORC) methodology adopted by Defence, your move may occur within the
week of that nominated date. Toll determines the best value for money uplift day within the week of your preferred
date and confirms the date with you.
It is necessary to answer all relevant questions in your AFR, and to provide essential documents where requested
to do so. You can save the information you have entered online at any time by clicking save at the bottom of each
page. If you don’t yet have a preferred uplift date or the required documentation, save your partially completed
AFR and submit it when you do have this information.
If you have operational or extenuating personal circumstances that require you to move on a particular date,
you will need unit approval prior to submitting your AFR online. The form is available at
www.tolltransitions.com/defence under the WORC subheading or contact Toll Transitions on 1800 819 167.
Once your AFR is submitted you will be assigned a Toll Transitions Case Manager who will be in contact with
you to discuss your relocation and commence booking the specific services required.
Remember
• Determine a preferred uplift date you can commit to
• Your move may take place within the week of your preferred date
• If you must move on a particular date you need unit sign-off prior to submitting your AFR
• Complete your AFR, attaching required documentation, as soon as possible
• The earlier you submit your AFR to Toll the more likely you are to move on your preferred date
• You will be assigned a Toll Transitions Case Manager once your AFR has been submitted
• Difficulty completing your AFR? Contact Toll’s Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167
FEATURES
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Pte Daniel Althaus is
recovering from lung
cancer and relied on
blood transfusions
during his treatment.
Photos by Capt William Heck
STILL TIME
Army is leading the way
in this year’s Defence
Blood Challenge, with
2026 donations recorded at the time of printing. Air Force is coming
second with 1039 donations, Defence civilians
third with 669, and Navy
last with 664. There’s
still time to register
before the challenge
ends on November 30.
Visit www.donateblood.
com.au/defence
How’s it used?
Modern processing techniques
mean that a single blood donation,
when separated into its components, can help at least three different patients and contribute to
making up to 22 different products
(including potentially life-saving
immunisations for chicken pox,
hepatitis B and tetanus).
Cpl Adrian Adams and
his wife, Vanessa, who is
undergoing treatment for
breast cancer.
“The majority of ADF personnel are fit and strong and can
donate a lot of healthy blood
products.
“On the recipient side, Vanessa
and I have seen how a healthy
blood transfusion can mean the
difference of a couple of weeks
before another one is needed.”
Cpl Adams has been in the
Army for 10 years working in preventative medicine/environmental
health and said he donated plasma
to the Red Cross nearly every two
weeks.
“I can’t donate whole blood at
the moment because I deployed
to Papua New Guinea 18 months
ago and need to wait another 18
months to ensure I am clear of
malaria,” Cpl Adams said.
“Plasma donations involve
donating a concentrated collection
of plasma, only through a process
called apheresis, which takes
about 45 minutes.”
Who does donated blood help?
It is sometimes thought that the
majority of donated blood helps
those involved in accidents and
emergencies. Most of the blood,
however, is used to treat people
with cancer and other serious
illnesses.
How many donations are
needed?
Every week Australia needs more
than 27,000 blood donations.
How often can I donate?
Donations can be made every 12
weeks and it takes about 45 minutes. Plasma can be given every
two or three weeks.
For more information on donating blood
visit www.donateblood.com.au
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Sun. 30th November, 9am-4pm
Mon. 12th January, 9am-4pm
Hilton Adelaide
Brisbane
Sun. 5th January, 9am-4pm
Eatons Hill Hotel
Canberra
Mon. 6th January, 9am-4pm
Crowne Plaza
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Mon. 6th January, 9am-4pm
Ipswich Golf Course
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Tues. 7th January, 9am-4pm
International Hotel
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Tues. 7th January, 9am-4pm
Burke & Wills Hotel
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Wed. 8th January, 9am-4pm
Commercial Club
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Fri. 10th January, 9am-4pm
Adina Hotel Queen St
Perth
Fri. 10th January, 9am-4pm
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Darwin
Mon. 12th January, 9am-4pm
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BLOOD
FACTS
Why should I give blood?
Blood is vital to life and, for many
people, blood donors are their
lifeline. Only one in 30 people give
blood, but one in three people will
need blood in their lifetime.
“IT’S definitely a life-changing
event.”
This is how Cpl Adrian
Adams, of 2GHB, describes the
effect of his wife, Vanessa, being
diagnosed with stage-four breast
cancer.
After a previous battle with
the condition in 2012, Vanessa’s
cancer returned two months ago,
which required her to begin chemotherapy and receive semi-regular
blood transfusions.
Blood transfusions are needed
during chemotherapy treatment
because the drugs can affect cells
in the bone marrow, leading to
low blood cell counts, which can
put a person at risk of life-threatening infections or bleeding.
Cpl Adams said over the past
six weeks Vanessa, who works for
the Red Cross Blood Service, had
needed nearly eight units of blood
(a unit of blood is 450ml) to keep
her healthy.
“Vanessa and I are facing challenges, but we are just trying to
find out what the new normal is
for us,” Cpl Adams said.
“I am a regular donor of
plasma and know giving blood is
not for everyone, but I would like
to encourage everyone to take part
in the Defence Blood Challenge,
because it does make a difference
to people.
27
Limited seats available
Australian
Veteran
Owned
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28
PERSONNEL
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Time is running out
 Cancel your allotments before you go on leave
Leanne Blackmore
PERSONNEL are reminded to cease non-BSB discretionary
allotments and make new arrangements before the Christmas
stand-down period.
OCTOBER
TRIAL RESULTS
Note: All Court Martial and
Defence Force Magistrate trial
results are subject to commandreview and appeal. The results
indicated are of trials across
the ADF.
NCO
Defence Force Magistrate
Two counts of prejudicial
conduct
– DFDA s 60(1)
The implementation of the first phase of Defence One
in 2015 will involve the removal of non-BSB discretionary
allotments (also known as voluntary allotments) from PMKeyS.
In July ADF members were advised to cease all non-BSB
discretionary allotments and to make new arrangements before
the deadline of January 29, 2015.
Non-BSB allotments are voluntary payments made via the
payroll system to institutions such as charities, clubs, insurance
companies and health funds.
These do not include compulsory payments such as child
support contributions, living-in accommodation charges,
judgement orders, or other net pay distributions to bank
accounts with BSB numbers.
While flexible remuneration salary sacrifice deductions
might be considered ‘discretionary’, they will continue to be
processed automatically through the Defence payroll system.
Although statistics show a decline in the number of members with allotments, with only two months to go until the
deadline, thousands of members are yet to cease non-BSB
discretionary allotments.
Assistant Secretary Personnel Systems Modernisation
Brenton Searle said with the posting cycle about to commence
and the break over Christmas, it was better to make the change
now.
To cease deductions, members should log onto PMKeyS
Self Service or complete an AD577 webform, available on the
Defence intranet.
Members wishing to continue to pay their deductions can do
this via BPAY or direct debit through personal internet banking.
For assistance with setting up deductions, members are
encouraged to contact their financial institution or receiving
organisation.
For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions tab at http://
ciogintranet.defence.gov.au/organisation/HRDD/PSMB/DefenceOne
November 20, 2014
The member was accused of
interfering with the conduct
of a disciplinary investigation.
The member pleaded not guilty
to the charges, but was found
guilty of the charges. The
member was reduced in rank.
Other rank
Restricted Court Martial
One count of assault
occasioning actual bodily
harm
– DFDA s 61(3) and Crimes Act
(ACT) s 24(1)
The member was accused of
striking another member in
the face. The member pleaded
guilty to the charge and was
found guilty of the charge.
The member was sentenced
to 21 days’ detention (partially
suspended) and fined $1500
(paid by
instalments).
Photo by LS Jayson Tufrey
Army November 20, 2014
Married
to SASR
Being the spouse of an Army
member is not always easy and
certainly not what many Australians
consider a “normal” style of married
life. While Army members work
day in and day out, preparing for or
supporting ADF operations around
the world, their families are their
support.
An SASR member’s wife told her
story of being married to the Army at
a recent unit ball. The following is a
transcript of her speech:
– and we, the wives – were at home,
remaining silent to keep them safe. We
were finally seeing our men play their
game.
When someone asks what your
husband does for a living, the answer
can be varied, depending who you are
talking to because what our husbands,
partners, fathers, brothers and lovedones do is simply not normal; it’s not a
traditional way of married life.
It’s not normal to wave your loved
one off to war.
It’s not normal to be married and
yet be a single-mother, raising children
VERYONE has their own tale
with an ever-absent father, in an
to tell about being “married to
occupation that poses constant threat to
the regiment”, but I have been
their personal safety.
asked to share my story.
It’s not normal to explain to your
I met my husband through mutual
child that Daddy’s gone to work, but
friends on Boxing Day in 1986 when
you don’t know for sure when he’ll be
he was a private with 6RAR’s recon
home.
platoon in Brisbane. Two weeks after
It’s not normal to observe your child
meeting, he went back to Brisbane to
see the Army uniform flapping on the
prepare for the SAS selection course.
washing line and then try to help them
I knew then that our immediate future
together would be a long-distance one. understand if they happen to catch a
glimpse of the evening news.
Little did I know that over the next
It’s not normal to witness the pain
28 years our relationship would involve
of your husband losing a mate, not
numerous and lengthy separations,
once, but multiple times, with 15 in one
which still occur to this day.
accident alone.
I’ve been part of the regiment’s
And it’s really not normal to have
family since 1988 when my husband
that constant worry about your loved
completed selection. Over the years
one’s safety overshadowing your
since he joined, we have seen roughly
everyday life.
13 COs come and go. Essentially we
And yet, we put a smile on our face
have been part of the regiment and the
and tell friends “everything’s fine”.
regimental family for half of its life.
This is a world that we, as wives and
We have experienced the many
family, live and breathe as well, for the
and varied operational tempos of this
love of our husbands and partners, and
unit. We have witnessed the regiment
for the love of this regiment and the
go from over a decade of peace-time
amazing work they do.
exercises and training, followed
I can honestly say I love this
by well over a decade of wartime
regiment as much as my husband does.
operations and deployments.
The ADF has been very good to us over
During those peace-time activities,
the years and has provided a solid and
I used to tell close friends that it must
secure foundation for our family.
be like training for a rugby match and
May we, the wives and partners of
never getting a game. In retrospect, I
SAS soldiers, continue to remain the
actually should have been more carebackbone of this regiment, continuing
ful saying that because shortly after
9/11, and before any infrastructure had to support them, whether on operations
or in training, to do the job that they do
been set up, my husband deployed to
so willingly.
Afghanistan.
May all of us, who love one of
The spouses of those soldiers
these blokes, continue to be the pillar
endured the initial three months with
of strength upon which they may rest,
no communications. There were no
while they uphold the ethos of this
phones, no Skype, simply no comms.
regiment in their (and our) “relentless
It was our husbands and loved-ones
who were there before anyone knew
pursuit of excellence”.
E
29
PERSONNEL
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
Check PMKeyS at home
via the Home Portal.
Photo by Cpl Aaron Curran
Stay connected when away
SOLDIERS can apply for leave
and view pay slips online during Christmas stand-down
thanks to the PMKeyS Self
Service (PSS) Home Portal.
The portal provides members
and employees with secure internet access to PSS without logging
into the DRN or using DREAMS.
Members must have a mobile
phone number and personal email
address recorded in PMKeyS to
access the Home Portal. Once
active, personal information can
be accessed via PC, laptop, tablet
and mobile device until 10pm.
PSS AT HOME
To access PSS Home Portal, contact your
orderly room to ensure your PMKeyS
record is correct, then log on through
https://osd.defence.gov.au
More information and help desk support
is available from the Defence Service
Centre by calling 1800 Defence,
emailing dsc@defence.gov.au, or
through PMKeyS.
 View payslips and payment
summaries
U
pdate personal particulars
C
heck leave balances
A
pply for leave
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30
LIFESTYLE PEOPLE
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Above, Tpr Nam Chua, of 10LHR,
takes notes during Exercise
Retimo. Photo by LS Bradley Darvill
Pte Hollie McConkey, of 1CSSB, guides a floating
log to simulate a creek crossing during the final
phase of the 1 Bde military skills competition.
Left, Cfn James Nash, of Rifle
Company Butterworth, prepares
for urban operations training during
Exercise Bersama Lima.
Photo by LCpl Sebastian Beurich
Photo by Cpl Shannon McCarthy
Pte Dane Cope
shows iFly
Downunder
manager
Rebecca O’Prey
a 66mm
short-range
anti-armour
weapon during
Exercise
Executive
Stretch at
Singleton.
Spr Sam Little, of Rifle Company
Butterworth, fires a Singapore
Assault Rifle 21 at Nee Soon
Camp, Singapore, during
Exercise Bersama Lima.
Photo by Cpl Shannon McCarthy
Photo by
AB Steven Thomson
Pte Heath Jamieson (left)
and Cpl Seamus Donaghue,
display their Spirit of Adventure
medallions at the Australian
Geographic Society’s 2014 gala
awards.
Photo by AB Kayla Hayes
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Army Revealing read
“
SAY AGAIN, OVER
If you can
think of a
clever caption
for this
picture, email
captioncomp@
defencenews.
gov.au with
“caption comp
November
20” as the
subject. Keep
entries under
25 words and
include your
name, rank
and unit.
New book gives interesting snippets not covered by others.
To Kokoda
By Nicholas Anderson
Big Sky Publishing
RRP $20
Reviewer: Sgt Dave
Morley
THE latest issue in the
Army History Unit’s
campaign series, To
Kokoda, hit the shelves on
November 2, and is right
up there with the usual
high standard of AHU
publications.
The book
tells it like
it was by
discussing
Japanese
soldiers
mutilating
Aussie diggers’ bodies
and cannibalising
them.
There are many books
on the Kokoda battles, but
this one seeks to bring out
interesting snippets that
aren’t found in the others.
Author Nick Anderson
spent more than two years
writing the book, which
included walking the
Kokoda Track, where he
studied battlefields, bunkers and bridges along the way.
Diggers who fought along the
track are quoted throughout the
book, which not only details battles
at battalion-level, but goes right
down to skirmishes at section-level.
Nor does the book tip-toe
around political correctness and try
to rewrite history – the book tells it
like it was by discussing Japanese
soldiers mutilating Aussie diggers’
bodies and cannibalising them.
The book is well indexed and
referenced, and well illustrated with
dozens of photos, black and white and
colour, sketches and detailed maps.
There are 11 colour plates with
images and details of weapons used
by both sides, and pull-out charts
showing units and COs from both
sides.
31
LIFESTYLE FUN
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
Last edition’s winner
“No Harman a giraffe collecting donations.”
Shane Rees
Defence Materiel Organisation
We also liked:
“Hey, mate, best you go back to the
clothing store, your cams don’t fit
properly.”
Pte Jason Fletcher
11CSSB
DIKKO
To Kokoda would be a worthwhile
addition to your collection of military
history books and for $20 it is a good
buy.
Army has two signed copies of To Kokoda
to give away to readers. To go into the
draw, send an email to competitions@
defencenews.gov.au telling us in 25 words
or less why you would like a copy.
See the lateSt in gunS,
opticS, hunting
and outdoor gear.
By Bob Dikkenberg
32
LIFESTYLE FINANCE
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
The cold, card facts
November 20, 2014
Photo by Cpl Nick Wiseman
Choosing a credit card that’s best for you requires thought, Australian
Securities and Investment Commission chairman Greg Medcraft says.
I
F YOU decide you need a
credit card, it is important to
choose one that matches the
way you want to pay off the
debt.
You should also make sure you
shop around to compare interest
rates, features and fees.
Credit cards have different
features to suit different types of
spenders.
Interest-free periods
If you always pay off your credit
card in full each month, look for
one that offers interest-free days.
This means you pay no interest
for a certain number of days after
making a purchase.
These cards may charge higher
interest rates and annual fees – but
if you pay off your debt within the
interest-free period, you will avoid
paying interest altogether, so the
higher annual fee may be worth it.
No interest-free period
If you know you won’t be
paying your debt in full straight
away, consider a card with no
interest-free days.
You’ll usually pay lower
annual fees and less interest, either
from the day of purchase or the
day your monthly statement is
issued.
Be wary of specials
Check the terms and conditions
of the credit contract carefully
before you sign up for a card with a
low introductory rate. If the card issuer offers a
‘honeymoon rate’, check what level
the interest rate will rise to after the
introductory or honeymoon period
ends and what fees and charges
come with the offer.
A card with higher fees might
wipe out your savings from the
honeymoon period before long.
Smart ways to use
your credit card
 Pay more than the minimum
repayment each month, to pay off
your balance more quickly and
save on interest.
 If you can only make the
minimum monthly repayment,
switch to a card with a low
interest rate and pay off more
when you can.
 Keep track of spending on
your credit card so you stay
within your limit. Use ASIC’s
MoneySmart TrackMySPEND
app to help manage your
spending.

Consider setting up a direct debit
to pay a fixed amount off the
balance owing each pay day.
 Do not take cash advances
because they usually attract
higher interest.
 Use ASIC’s MoneySmart credit
card calculator to work out the
fastest way to pay off your credit
card.
Avoid getting a credit card if
you are using it to pay off other
debts.
The higher interest rate and
other fees and charges may cost you
more in the long run.
If you can’t meet loan repayments, talk with your credit provider and let them know you are
experiencing financial hardship.
ASIC’s MoneySmart TrackMySPEND app
and credit card calculator can be found at
www.moneysmart.gov.au
How to
compare
cards
USE the key facts sheet available from credit
card issuers to compare cards. Key facts
sheets contain information on:
 minimum repayments
 purchase and cash advance rates
 promotional interest rate (if any)
 length of the interest-free period (if any)
 annual and late payment fees (if any)
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You can:
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Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
LIFESTYLE HEALTH
33
Smart weight loss is key
Being wise about diet and exercise can help keep muscle mass, while shedding fat and staying healthy.
W
HILE most people talk
about losing weight,
what they actually want
to achieve is a loss of
body fat. According to the Australian
Institute of Sport nutrition experts the
ultimate goal is to change the balance
between daily energy intake and energy
expenditure.
AT A GLANCE
 Focus on overall health, not low
body weight.
 Choose a balanced diet, emphasising a variety of nutrient-dense
foods.
 Investigate reasons for eating
when not hungry.
 Include aerobic training into your
lifestyle, by using stairs, walking
or riding instead of driving.
 Approach weight loss as a longterm change in lifestyle.
For successful long-term weight loss,
the goal is to lose body fat while preserving muscle mass. In sports, a loss of body
fat may be desired for several reasons
related to performance:
 s o people can be transported around
more easily, especially over long
distances (e.g. marathon running)
 f or appearance reasons (e.g. gymnastics)
 t o improve the power-to-weight ratio
(e.g. sprinting)
 t o make the weigh-in requirements in
sports with weight divisions (e.g. lightweight rowing, boxing, judo)
Exercise
Dietary fat
A substantial increase in physical activity
is an essential factor in staying leaner. The
best type of exercise for weight loss is
anything that can be undertaken at a moderate to high intensity for 30-60 minutes
or longer. Aerobic activities such as brisk
walking, jogging, cycling and swimming
are effective. Also, look for ways to incorporate active living into your daily routine
– for example, walk instead of drive, take
the stairs and cycle to get around. With
this activity providing a baseline, it may
be easier to add extra exercise, such as a
brisk walk 2-3 times a week.
Too much fat in the diet increases the
risk of becoming overweight. Fats are
energy dense (37kJ/g) compared to protein (17kJ/g) and carbohydrate (16kJ/g).
Alcohol is also energy dense at 29kJ/g.
Reducing dietary fat is an easy way to
reduce energy intake and promote fat loss.
Registers of people who have successfully
lost weight and managed to keep it off
for at least one year show that the most
common factors for success are increased
activity and low-fat eating.
Food quantities
Energy density
Much of our eating is done for reasons
other than hunger. In these situations it is
difficult to identify why someone might
be eating. Common reasons include the
clock says it’s meal time, the food tastes
great, eating as a reward and eating out
of habit. Rather than eating on ‘automatic
pilot’, take time-out before meals to ask
how hungry you really are, what type of
foods would be enjoyed and what other
stressors are pushing you to eat. The
message is to eat smart.
To achieve the real goal of reducing
energy intake, we need to replace
high-fat foods with low-energy density
choices such as fruit and vegetables.
Adequate carbohydrate intake is still an
important principle of healthy eating.
These strategies should be underpinned
by meeting our fluid needs with lowenergy choices, especially water.
Article courtesy of the Australian Institute
of Sport.
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Rather than eating on ‘automatic pilot’, take time-out before meals to ask how hungry you really are, what
type of foods would be enjoyed and what other stressors are pushing you to eat. Photo by Sgt Dave Morley
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34
SPORT
Army www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
New talent
unearthed
November 20, 2014
Cpl Andrew
Moreland, of 1RTB,
wins the men’s
physique title.
 Army women impress in football championships
From back page
Army Men’s coach Maj Mark
Strickland, of 10FSB, said Army
missed chances and had some senior
players unavailable.
“However, those selected did well
and with two wins from four, the
players can be proud of their efforts,”
he said.
Army opened its campaign against
Navy and were down 2-0 when Pte
Morgan Taylor, of 1 Bde, scored a
great goal with 20 minutes to play.
Army fought hard for the equaliser and nearly pulled off a draw in the
dying minute when Pte Dylan Ferris,
of 1 Regt RAA, rattled the cross-bar
with a thunderous shot at goal.
Army beat Air Force 2-1 thanks to
goals by Pte Rob Field, of 2RAR, and
Pte Rowan Heggie, of 7 Bde, but the
victory wasn’t enough to snatch the
trophy from Navy.
The ADF football championships
also featured an appearance by the
UK Royal Marines, which beat Army
6-2.
The highlight of the match was
the stunning goals scored by Pte
Field and Capt Matt Salerno, of
Norforce.
Army was well served by Pte
Field, who was top goal scorer in
the men’s open with four goals and
also Sgt David Ross, of the School
of Infantry, who was Army’s most
valuable player.
Army had nine players selected in
the ADF team that beat Emergency
Services 2-1 on November 7.
The Army representatives were Lt
Phil O’Byrne, of 1 Int Bn, Sgt Ross,
Cpl Ryan Hall, of SME, Cpl Craig
Luttrell, of 12/40RTR, Pte Field, Pte
Shamus Crowley, of 1 Regt RAA, Pte
Heggie, Pte Taylor, Pte Sam Wallace,
of 9FSB, and Pte Rhys Webber, of
9FSB.
The Army over-35s team opened
its campaign with a gritty 1-0 win
over Navy, but were ambushed 3-0
by Air Force, which cost them the
trophy.
The Army veterans did extremely
well to beat the Royal Marines 3-0,
but that result could not snatch the
title away from Air Force.
Coach Lt James Martin said “we
only have ourselves to blame”.
“We didn’t turn up and the Air
force did,” he said.
“Despite the result, the lads
showed that even at the average
age of 40 the team can still produce
exciting football.”
As a result of the Army veterans
strong performance they had five
players selected in the ADF team that
defeated the Emergency Services 8-1
on November 7.
The Army representatives were
WO2 Kev Naughton, of 3 Bde, WO2
M, of 2 Cdo Regt, Sgt Neil Dickie,
of 1 Avn Regt, WO2 Chris Plezkun,
of DFSS, and Cpl Eugene Rauber,
of 1RTB.
Pte Lisa Bailey (in red) scores
for Army as LACW Hannah
Graham tries to block in goal.
Impressive physiques
on show in Brisbane
Cpl Nick Wiseman
model category, with Sgt Pennie
Looker, of Defence Plaza Sydney,
COMPETITORS from across the
placing third and Capt Cherry Foster,
ADF and emergency services came of the Land Warfare Centre, placing
fourth.
together for the 2014 Defence and
Cpl Wiseman said Cpl Andrew
Emergency Services Physique
Moreland, of 1RTB, was a clear standTitles held on September 14 at the
out in the men’s physique category.
Sleeman’s Centre in Brisbane.
“He was advised that he should
With this year’s entry requirements
changed to allow Emergency Services enter this category this year due to his
physique,” she said.
personnel to compete, ADF members
“He went on to win and was
had to prove their worth with 26
ecstatic.”
competitors in total.
Competition promoter Cpl
Cpl Moreland said he was glad he
Angela Wiseman, of RAAF Base
took Cpl Wiseman’s advice.
Williamtown, said the changes were
“The category I went in has only
put in place to give the competitors an been around a few years and she
extra challenge and to recognise the
thought I’d do well, so I thought ‘why
similar fields.
not’,” he said.
“As a result the competition this
“There is nothing better than walkyear was quite fierce,” she said.
ing out there and winning – definitely
“It was great to see so many people a highlight, but not expected.”
compete.”
Former PTI and now Queensland
The competition opened with the
Firefighter Blake Abbott took out the
figure international girls, which was
‘Mr Defence’ title.
taken out by former Pte Sarah Sliwka,
Cpl Wiseman said he had prepared
followed closely by Flg-Off Megan
himself
exceptionally well for the day.
Coppins, of RAAF Base Amberley.
“His condition improved throughLAC Brendan Purvis, of Amberley,
stood out in the men’s fitness category out the day,” she said.
“His win is a testament to his
coming first, followed closely by
experience and mature physique.
Pte Jade Cooper.
“He represented the better overall
The competition was close
package on the day and took out the
between Cpl Michelle Mazins, of
title – an outstanding achievement and
RAAF Base Williamtown, and Sig
Kylie Grimes, of 7CSR, in the fitness the reigning champion.”
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Army SPORT
www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews
November 20, 2014
35
Gold and silver
for ADF Hockey
Most valuable
player Cfn Deborah
Keir in action.
“
 ADF Princess Warriors score upset victory
Michael Brooke
CFN Deborah Keir was on target with her hockey stick to help
steer the ADF women’s team to the
gold medal at the ninth Pan Pacific
Masters’ Games.
BEATING THE BRITS
Cpl Mark Doran
were not counted because of the
shortage of players and roundADF Hockey players warmed-up
robin format.
for the Pan Pacific Championships
Lt Andrew Connell, of 176
with challenges from the touring
AD Sqn, played as a centreBritish Army Adjutant General’s
half for the NSW/ACT men’s
Corps (AGC) hockey team.
team against the AGC team at
AGC played the combined
Daceyville in Sydney and said it
NSW/ACT ADF hockey men’s
was a high-quality match.
and women’s teams in Sydney
“The standard of fitness was
on October 27-28 then competed
high,
though it was evident it was
against the ADF’s Victorian teams
the off-season for the Australian
in Melbourne on November 1-2.
team,” Lt Connell said.
The ADF NSW teams proved
The AGC is one of the largtheir worth against the Brits with
est corps in the British Army and
a 5-4 win in the men’s and a 2-2
provides support in the form of
draw in the women’s on October
combat human resources special27, followed by a 2-2 draw and a
ists, military police and provost
2-1 victory on the following day.
staff, educational, training and
The Victorian teams both
lost matches, although scores
legal services.
Cfn Keir, of 1 Sig Regt, played a
vital role in defence to help shutdown
ex-Hockeyroos captain and Olympian
Nicki Hudson to enable the ADF
Princess Warriors to score an upset
victory in the grand final.
Such was Cfn Keir’s dogged
defence that she earned the award for
the most valuable player (MVP) in the
grand final at the Gold Coast Hockey
Stadium on November 8.
“It is an honour to be considered
as the MVP among such high calibre
players as were playing in the ADF
team,” she said.
“The skill level of the competition
was such that we all had to play like
super stars to qualify for the grand
final.”
Proving that age is no barrier to
success, the ADF Hockey Association
representatives won the gold medal in
the women’s over-30s competition and
silver in the men’s over-30s championships.
The Princess Warriors beat SassFit Australia 2-0 in the grand final
of the women’s over-30s, while the
ADF Young Warriors lost 4-2 against
Brisbane’s Universals in the men’s
over-30s grand final.
ADF international tour coordinator
WO William McConnell said the jubilant players danced on air after their
triumphs at the world’s largest biennial
masters games that featured 10,000
athletes competing in 40 sports.
“It was a really great outcome for
The skill level of the competition was
such that we all had to play like super
stars to qualify for the grand final.
the women’s over-30s and even the
men’s over-30s,” he said.
WO McConnell said the Princess
Warriors emerged undefeated from the
championship after six tough games.
“The ADF victory in the women’s
over-30s grand final was considered
an upset because the opposition team
featured several very classy players,
including Olympic gold medallist
Hudson,” he said.
WO McConnell said all the women
played strongly, but singled out Cfn
Keir for special mention, courtesy
of her stellar defensive performance
throughout the tournament.
“The grand final was a real boilover with the ADF champion team,
inspired by Cfn Keir, beating a team of
champions,” he said.
C f n Ke i r s a i d t h e t o u r n a ment marked her first for the ADF
since the 2009 Australian Country
Championships.
“It was a really tough match and I
wasn’t convinced that we had wrapped
up the gold medal until the last two
minutes when we led 2-0,” she said.
“The opposition had a few failed
attempts to crack our defence and, even
after we scored again in the second
half, it was still anyone’s game until
the clock hit two minutes remaining.”
Cfn Keir said she was not over-
– Cfn Deborah Keir,
most valuable player
awed by the Olympian. “She was just
another member of the Sassfit team,
which had a had a few very talented
players,” she said.
“Our attack and mid-field players
were key in denying Hudson and their
forwards possession of the ball.”
She said her fondest memory of the
match was not her smothering defence
on Hudson, but goal-keeper Becky
Green’s spectacular save to keep the
opposition scoreless.
We worked well as a team and that
is always more dangerous than any
individual player.
The ADF men’s over-30s team, the
Young Warriors, were defeated 4-2 in
the gold medal match by the Universals
from Brisbane.
WO McConnell said the ADF
men played well, but lacked the strike
power of their opponents.
“The men had a very successful
campaign, but lost their way in defence
at crucial times in the grand final,” he
said.
Sgt Shane Thruston, of RAAF Base
Amberley, slotted the first goal of the
grand final to give his team a great
start.
WO McConnell also singled out
Cfn Travis Doll, of 3CSSB, for his
impressive performance in attack and
defence.
7RAR wins Pte Graham Cornes Trophy in hotly contested match
Lt Jeremy Fraser
THE inaugural Pte Graham Cornes
Trophy Aussie rules match between
7RAR and 16ALR took place on
October 23, in the first competitive
outing for both units since the arrival
of 7RAR to Adelaide in 2011.
The game was played at Alberton
Oval, home of the Port Adelaide
Football Club, and resulted in a hardfought victory 15.8.98 to 7.8.50 to
7RAR.
An inspirational pre-match speech
from Port Adelaide premiership player
Kane Cornes helped the 7RAR team
narrowly take the first quarter.
The match was hotly contested
in the midfield, however, the 16ALR
defence was no match against a strong
7RAR forward line, which converted
nearly all opportunities.
It was no surprise to anyone that
the best on ground went to the 7RAR
full-forward Pte Daniel Starr, of
Mortar Platoon, with an impressive
haul of 10 goals.
The best on ground award and Pte
Graham Cornes trophy were presented
by SANFL legend Russell Ebert, who
paid tribute to the performances of
the players on the field, as well as the
wider contributions of both units in the
South Australian community.
The trophy is named after former
soldier, SANFL player and Adelaide
Crows Football Club coach, Graham
Cornes, who was drafted into the
Army in 1968. He deployed with
7RAR in the 1970-71 tour of Vietnam,
as part of the Mortar Platoon.
During pre-deployment training at
Canungra, after a request to the CO by
the president of the Glenelg Football
Club, Graham returned for a weekend
to play in the SANFL grand final
before flying back the same day and
deploying to Vietnam shortly after.
7RAR and 16ALR players contest the ball during the
inaugural Pte Graham Cornes Trophy in Adelaide.
Golden boot Pte Lisa Bailey, of 10FSB,
in action for Army during the ADF
Women’s Interservice Shield.
November 20, 2014
FRESH
BLOOD
Maj Steve McNaughton
Army women claim
title in football
championships
with 24 goals
in four games
PAGE 34
ARMY’S women footballers toasted sweet success at the 2014
ADF Football Association Championships in Sydney.
Army beat Navy 5-2 and 4-0, and flogged Air Force 7-1 and
8-0 to win the ADF Women’s Interservice Shield at Cromer Park
from November 1-5.
The women’s triumphant campaign featured a massive 24 goals
in four games, while holding their opposition to three goals.
Women’s coach Maj Scott Reid, of 3CER, said it was another
fantastic championships with a lot of new talent unearthed for
Army, with Pte Lisa Bailey, of 10FSB, receiving the ADF women’s
player of the tournament in her first appearance at the nationals.
“This is promising for Australian Army Football as each year
we strengthen our status in the national arena and for individuals
as they compete for ADF selection,” he said.
“It was fantastic to see the improvement in the standard of
women’s football across all three services since I last coached the
Army team in 2011.”
Army’s midfielders were particularly impressive and paved the
way for their teams’ second consecutive title.
Pte Bailey not only won the ADF women’s player of the
tournament but also the Army’s women’s golden boot award,
courtesy of her eight-goal tally.
Her midfield partner Pte Courtney Holmwood, of 6RAR,
was also dynamic in attack and defence, to earn the Army’s most
valuable player award.
Both midfielders were extremely well supported by LCpl
Gabby Dickinson, of 3RAR, and LCpl Sigrid Manty, of 8CSSB,
who displayed the silky skills of seasoned professionals by
creating or scoring a dozen exciting goals.
As a result of Army’s dominance it had players selected in
the ADF women’s team, with Army captain LCpl Dickinson also
selected as the ADF captain.
The eight players were instrumental in helping the ADF women’s team to a crushing 6-0 victory over Emergency Services on
November 7.
The Army representatives were Tpr Erin McAllister, of 6 Avn
Regt, LCpl Gabby Dickinson, of 3RAR, Capt Wendy DeBoer, of
the Robertson Barracks Health Centre, Pte Bailey, Pte Holmwood,
Pte Monica Kavanah, of 5CSSB, Sig Charlotte Kittle, of 1 Sig
Regt, and LCpl Manty.
Army was runner-up in the ADF men’s open interservice
championships with a 2-1 triumph over Air Force and an unlucky
2-1 loss to Navy.
Continued page 34