LOOK WHAT's FLOWN IN: FIRST Mrh90s ARRIVE – SEE P7

Edition 1182 February 7, 2008

Three months after a Taliban IED badly wounded him, Sgt Michael Lyddiard is back at work. Read his remarkable tale on Page 2 FFACEACE OOFF CCOURAGEOURAGE Photo by Cpl Mike McSweeney LOOK WHAT’S FLOWN IN: FIRST MRH90s ARRIVE – SEE P7 Army February 7, 2008 2 NEWS Wounded helped by RSL Care program

By Cpl Corinne Boer SOLDIERS, sailors and airmen who have been seriously wounded in action can recuperate with family thanks to an RSL program. Operation Care was initiated by the RSL and Services clubs association and provides up to one week’s rest and recuperation at sites throughout the country for selected service personnel who have been wounded in combat operation. Chief Executive Officer of the RSL and Services Clubs Association Graeme Carroll said that in a best case scenario it was hoped that Operation Care was never required. But the vagaries of operations were such Happy moment: Commander 3 Bde Brig John Caligari, Sgt Michael Lyddiard, wife Katri and Maj Roger McMurray are all smiles before Sgt that people had been wounded and needed to be repatriated to Australia, he said. Lyddiard’s first day back to work at 3CER in Townsville. Photo by Cpl Mike McSweeney “It’s designed to provide Defence personnel who are wounded overseas and repatriated to Australia with leave to spend time with their family prior to them going back to active service,” Mr Carroll said. “This program provides some respite so they can reflect on what has occurred.” A member’s travel and accommodation Triumph of spirit expenses are covered by Operation Care. Eight members have benefitted from the program since its launched in October 2006. Mr Carroll said the feedback from the By Cpl Mike McSweeney then it going off,” he said. Sgt Lyddiard was later trans- participants has been positive. and Lt Bill Heck Base honour “I blacked out during the blast, ferred to a hospital in Germany, and “Beyond helping those people who are SGT Michael Lyddiard has but I awoke as soon as I landed thanked the “sensational” efforts of wounded in action we see it in a wider per- A TALIBAN IED has not daunt- on my back. I felt the sensation of the medical staff there. spective as well in building that relationship ed the spirit of Sgt Michael not been forgotten by his mates in Afghanistan – in fact blood and I heard my mates come to He paid tribute to his wife Katri, between the RSL clubs, the RSL and the Lyddiard, whose courage helped my aid.” who was by his side when he awoke Defence Department,” he said him return to work in Townsville they have named a base after him. RTF 3 soldiers built the A corporal took immediate con- in Germany. The project has been made possible by trol of the incident site. A sapper, on January 21. Afghan National Army patrol “Katri has fully supported me member clubs of the RSL & Services Clubs It has been less than three trooper and lance corporal rendered Association in NSW, which have agreed to base in Oruzgan province. all the way through my career, and months since Sgt Lyddiard lost his first aid while a sergeant coordinated provide funding for the program in keeping The Afghan troops occupy- more importantly, has ensured that right eye and forearm to an IED he security and the medical evacuation, I had love and support around me with the clubs’ objectives to support our was attempting to render safe in ing the base and their Dutch with assistance from another sapper. Anzac traditions. counterparts agreed that since the incident,” he said. Afghanistan. “These blokes went straight into Sgt Lyddiard said he would Units can nominate members through the The explosives ordnance disposal Patrol Base Khyber will now action as soon as the device went chain of command to Army referring mem- carry the local name of Camp return to Afghanistan in a heart beat, » operator said his decision to return off and saved my life,” Sgt Lyddiard but that his family might have some- ber Col Peter Daniel on (02) 9339 3496. Lyddiard. said. For further information on Operation Care to his second family – 3CER – was thing to say about it. well supported by Army. “Being mates, they encouraged visit www.rslservicesclubs.com.au and click “I’m happy with light duties they identified a possible IED and me, they talked about my wife, they Fortunately, 3CER will still ben- the Operation Care button. because I really pushed for heavy reported it over the radio. talked about my child and talked efit from his experience and spirit duties,” Sgt Lyddiard, who is a quar- The EOD sergeant explained that about me getting back to work. as the soldier takes up an operations ter of the way through rehabilitation, by rendering safe the device, it could “They controlled my bleeding, but and training position at the unit. said. be studied and exploited. more importantly they kept me “I’ve wanted nothing but to be a The 13-year veteran thanked all “If we don’t do it, we’re putting going mentally.” combat engineer,” he said. Put a cap on who had supported him since the more soldiers at risk,” he said. He later learnt that a mate had “I wanted nothing but to build incident, and praised the efforts of With his buddy in position, Sgt stayed with him for the six hours the bridges, build the roads and help his mates who saved his life. Lyddiard crawled towards the IED he was at a medical facility in the (Afghan) community when we alcohol intake on his stomach. did that task. Being an EOD is what He recalled being part of an Kandahar. THE Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs “My number two turned around I wanted to do.” RTF convoy returning to base on He also thanked a nurse called Service will conduct an Outpatient and said: ‘Lydds, you’re doing a Sgt Lyddiard also extended his November 2 last year. Anna, who made sure “the first Alcohol Treatment Program (OATP) at He said the infantry soldiers did great job, mate’. I remember clear- voice I heard was an Australian one thanks to those who sent letters and Holsworthy from February 25-28. their job “extremely well” when ing it, my buddy being there, and when I woke up”. flowers throughout his recovery. The OATP is a tri-service four-day group program which aims to educate members who are drinking alcohol at risky levels (specifically binge drinking) The Soldiers’ Newspaper on how to reduce their alcohol intake to safe levels. Program coordinator and facilitator Director Email: [email protected] Louise Hawkins said the program was Rod Horan: (02) 6265 4650 Subscriptions particularly useful for personnel who NOTE: This is not a Defence domain, so include (02) 6266 7607 Editorial “SEC=UNCLASSIFIED” in the subject line. thought that their alcohol use was start- Email: [email protected] ing to cause problems with their work Fax: (02) 6265 6690 Editor performance, relationships and health. David Edlington: (02) 6266 7609 Disclaimer Mail: The Editor, Army, R8-LG-038, Department of Army is published fortnightly by Defence Newspapers. It is “On completion of the program, fol- Deputy Editor Defence, Canberra ACT 2600 printed under contract by Capital Fine Print. The material low up support is available. Participants Lt Peter Martinelli: (02) 6266 7612 published is selected for its interest. The views expressed have access to psychologists if required, Website: www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence Reporters: however, the information provided over or Army. Every advertisement is subject to the Directorate the four days is often enough for the Cpl Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614 Advertising of Defence Newspapers approval and the Directorate of Defence Newspapers may, at its discretion, refuse to members to change their drinking behav- Cpl Mike McSweeney : (02) 6266 7608 Advertising Manager Cpl Corinne Boer: (02) 6265 2427 accept an advertisement for publication. The Directorate iour without further intervention”. Geoff Howard: (02) 6266 7605; of Defence Newspapers accepts no responsibility or Cpl Jane Ashby-Cliffe: (02) 6266 7606 The program provides education on Mobile: 0405 310 074; Fax (02) 6265 6690 liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an Hugh McKenzie: (02) 6265 2151 advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form which topics such as safe, responsible use of Email: [email protected] alcohol, goal setting, stress management, Sports Editor is not in accordance with the instructions received by Advertising Representative the Directorate of Defence Newspapers. The fact that an problem solving, communication skills Barry Rollings: (02) 6265 7219 advertisement is accepted for publication does not mean and relapse prevention. Tim Asher: (07) 3332 7651; Mobile: 0414 552 667 that the product of service has the endorsement of the Sydney Photographer: Email: [email protected] Department of Defence or Army. Inquiries to Louise Hawkins on (02) 8782 Bill Cunneen: 0413 302 669 »3033 or [email protected] Army February 7, 2008 NEWS 3 Wet doesn’t WELCOME FIREPOWER stop dry run

By Cpl Mike McSweeney 5 AVN Regt was flat out preparing for two operations as severe storms lashed Townsville in January. CHINOOK loadmaster Cpl Nathan Mathews (pictured) B Sqn Black Hawks bound for recently qualified on the M134D minigun in Townsville. Timor-Leste and C Sqn Chinooks “It’s like using a big hose. I’d hate to be on the receiv- heading to Afghanistan were con- ing end,” Cpl Mathews said. Qualifying on the M134D ducting mission rehearsal exercises. While it will be the fifth rota- only takes a day. “Once you figure out how the differ- tion out of seven for B Sqn on Op ent components work, you load the rounds on, turn the Astute, the Black Hawk crews still electric switch, hit the button and you’re off. They’re conducted intense training. not too shabby at all. If they’re really humming, you OC B Sqn Maj Dave Hafner can zip through a 4000-round bin in next to nothing. said the squadron had just returned Not that you’d do that in reality.” from mountain flying in Papua New Guinea and were conducting the last of their rehearsals. “They culminate in a number of mission profiles that replicate some VITAL STATISTICS of the tasks that we do in theatre, ranging from aeromedical evacu- Length: 80.16cm Rate of fire: 3000+rpm ations to air mobile operations in Ammo: 7.62mm Operation: Electric formation,” Maj Hafner said. Barrels: 6 Allocation: 2 per aircraft He said although there were stringent limits on acceptable flying conditions, conducting the training during Townsville’s wet season had its advantages. Top training: “You need to train people to get A Chinook and STILL DRIVING THAT OLD CAR? used to working in degraded weath- a Black Hawk er,” he said. from 5 Avn Regt VEHICLE SALARY Chinook crews were also adapt- conduct training ing to the adverse conditions. runs in Townsville “If we were in theatre now, it in the lead-up to PACKAGE INSTEAD wouldn’t be too far different,” C Sqn deployments to OC Maj Jason Duggan said. Afghanistan and Since returning from Afghanistan Timor-Leste. last year, C Sqn personnel have been Photos by Cpl Mike busy finalising the upgrades to com- McSweeney munications, electronic self-defence DRIVE A NEW CAR AND and ballistic protection. SAVE DOLLAR$ IN TAX* Maj Duggan said the M134D minigun was another welcome addi- LIMITED OFFER tion to the Chinook’s self protection “We had a focus to support the Matthey said. “The old engines were suite. guys and girls on the ground and do already pretty good but these ones “To have that extra firepower as what we could,” Maj Duggan said. give you about 25 per cent more a deterrent for starters, is an extreme “If it meant we hang around a bit power and a lower fuel burn... and advantage to us,” he said. longer or take a bit more, as long as they’re more reliable.” 5 Avn Regt is one of the few we could, we would.” Capt Matthey said he looked for- Chinook operators in the world that Upgraded GE714 engines, ward to redeploying on Op Slipper. use miniguns. installed in early 2007, meant the “Last time I was there for four In addition to the upgrades, it Aussie Chinook crews could do even months and you miss the family but was the crews’ can-do attitude that more. doing the job in country is enjoy- earned their high reputation in “The upgraded engines are fan- able,” he said. “Some days all you Afghanistan last rotation. tastic,” Chinook pilot Capt Scott do is eat, sleep and fly.” Twin Headrest mounted DVD player with 7 inch screens or GPS Satellite Navigation with 3D moving maps† limited offer while stocks last, DVD player or GPS Satellite navigation can’t be claimed in conjunction with any other offer. THE CHEAPER ALTERNATIVE

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Lt-Gen Gillespie joined the Army at Brisbane on January 15, 1968, aged 15 years. He said he did not know why he joined; it was always a life long Quintessential soldier: The seventh RSM-A, WO Woods, will retire on ambition, even at that early age. February 29 after 34 years dedicated service. Photo by LAC Aaron Curren “When I was a little kid on a farm, I listened to a radio drama based on the events of WWII in By Cpl Mike McSweeney WO Woods thanked his family for the Pacific; it used to support CMF and Sgt Dave Morley their unrelenting support throughout recruiting in those days,” Lt-Gen THERE was a passing of the pace his career and was looking forward to Gillespie said. stick on December 14 when the new taking “some leave and getting to know “It was sort of the soldier’s ver- senior soldier was announced in them again”. sion of Biggles and it fired me up “I’d be very happy if all those guys and made me want to be a soldier.” Canberra. in uniform could just go back and from Lt-Gen Gillespie joined the Army’s seventh RSM-A WO Kevin me say to their families ‘thanks very Army not as an officer, but as an Woods will retire on February 29, and much for their support’.” apprentice. has handed the reins to WO Stephen “I was a brick layer and com- Ward. The career soldier said the one thing he wouldn’t miss was doing gun piquet pleted my four year apprentice- CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy described ship at the Apprentice School at WO Woods as the quintessential RSM at Puckapunyal at 1am in the middle of winter. Balcombe in Victoria,” he said. Memories: VCDF Lt-Gen Ken Gillespie with a photo of himself back who served with distinction throughout “It was good for a young kid, it his 34 year career. when his career began on January 15, 1968. was a college life, there was a lot Photo by Cpl Andrew Hetherington “WO Woods is a soldier of superla- of sport and excitement, with little tive quality, characterised by his unre- WO WOODS parental supervision. lenting dedication, drive and profession- “It was good fun.” have held the position of Land sible in the ADF today. alism,” Lt-Gen Leahy said. During his apprenticeship he Commander and now the VCDF, so “If you are prepared to take “His moral courage, leadership and DISTINGUISHED realised he had to do something I’ve had a lucky but truly rewarding your opportunities, work hard and integrity have inspired Army soldiers to else if he was going to stay in the 40 years,” he said. make successes of them, you can strive for excellence and do their best.” ARMY CAREER Army, so he decided to become an Lt-Gen Gillespie said the most travel from apprentice brick layer to Among the highlights of WO Woods’ officer. challenging aspect of his career so General and I don’t think there are career was the awarding of the Medal of far, would be trying to continue to too many military forces in the world Enlisted 1973 “Luckily I passed the selection the Order of Australia in 1996 for meri- process on the completion of my stay fresh in his job. where that can happen,” he said. torious service to the School of Infantry “I worked hard to try and remain Lt-Gen Gillespie said he was CSM 5/7RAR 1988 apprenticeship,” Lt-Gen Gillespie and 49RQR. said. agile of thought and mind and not unsure what path his future in the “I’ve had a great 34 years in the “I went to Portsea, spent 12 become one of those generals who Army would take. Army, it’s been fantastic,” WO Woods Field Training 1990 months there and was commis- sits there, has no fresh ideas and rev- “The Government will make up said. WSM, RMC sioned as a second Lieutenant in els in the good old days,” he said. its mind about the new Defence lead- “Being a corporal was the most fun December 1972.” “You have to keep to your ideas ership team in July,” he said. because you were your own boss when RSM School of 1992 He said he had many career and be prepared to morph yourself “Whether I am a part of that or it came to training and looking after Infantry highlights since then, including and the organisation into something not is a matter for the Government, your men. But being RSM-A was the being selected to work in the UK as that is ready for the next war and not so my horizons for the rest of my best job because you had some input.” RSM 49RQR 1994 an instructor. the past war.” military career could be as short as WO Woods said the Army had never “I worked at the Royal School On reaching the 40 year milestone the next four or five months, or it been in better shape in his 34 years. RSM 3 Bde 1998 of Military Engineering in1986- Lt-Gen Gillespie said he has hardly could be a while longer,” he said. He said the Army’s success was a 87,” he said. noticed the time pass since his enlist- “If I serve on I will do it gladly credit to the leadership of his last boss, RSM Training 2000 “Other career highlights were ment day in 1968. and put my efforts into it. but recalled a time when the duo were Comd being promoted to Lt-Col, select- “It’s passed in a heart beat,” he “As to what I will do after the not at their best – on stage. ed as the contingent deputy and said. Army, I don’t know what I will do at “Hearing the boss and I sing, ADFA SM 2003 ops officer for the contingent to For serving Army members Lt- the moment. It is a debate between I know why we joined the Army, Namibia. Gen Gillespie said he liked to think my wife and I at present and she cer- because we would have starved to death RSM-A 2003 “As a senior officer I have com- that his career experience could be tainly sees me as a continuing mem- as musicians.” manded troops in Timor Leste, seen as an example of what was pos- ber of the work force!”

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By Cpl Corinne Boer with her father on the beach that day and saw the boat A PTI from ADFA braved stuck on the beach with a rough surf to save a fisher- second vessel. man from a capsized boat They spent an hour dig- in Victoria last month. ging the boats out of the Cpl Emily Sapwell sand, but the vessel with the swam 200m at Queenscliffe, fisherman drifted out to sea 100km south-east of and capsized. Melbourne, to rescue the The PTI said the fisherman on January 7. Helicopter Underwater His boat had drifted to Escape Training (HUET) sea from the beach. she did in Townsville as a “We saw the boat turn petroleum operator helped over and when the man her handle the situation. didn’t pop back up after “I have done scuba div- about 20 seconds I and ing before and the HUET another guy swam out,” Cpl training helped a lot too,” Sapwell said. she said. “I dived down under the “I just knew which way canopy and the fisherman was up and knew what it was underneath it … there was like being disorientated were no air pockets and he when you are upside down. had his hip waders on so he “The training made the situ- was floating upside down. ation a lot easier to handle.” He couldn’t swim and he Cpl Sapwell said that her was really disoriented.” physical training gave her Cpl Sapwell grabbed the the strength to pull the man fisherman by his feet, hauled ashore. him from the vessel and “I grew up as a little nip- dragged him to shore. per surfer and I’ve always “He had taken on a bit had an active lifestyle so of water and was coughing it’s made me fitter, stronger and spluttering but he was and faster,” she said. “As all right, just a bit dazed,” an NCO in the Army, when she said. something goes wrong we Cpl Sapwell, who was can’t panic we just have to Life-saver: Cpl Emily Sapwell back at work at ADFA after rescuing a man while on leave in Victoria. Photo by Cpl Corinne Boer on leave at the time, was deal with the situation.” Proposal Queensland Property

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We can also arrange fi nance and make the process easy for you, even if you are Minister Warren Snowdon released take more responsibility for the manage- on deployment overseas!! the report of the Review into Military ment of their superannuation savings. Superannuation Arrangements on The recommendations are aligned QPS identifi es median priced properties in good growth areas, close to transport links, shopping centres, schools and December 24. with the review’s guiding principles that recreational areas. Properties are completely fi nished and include quality fi xtures such as dishwasher, remote control Director-General of Defence military superannuation should be flex- garage door and reverse cycle split system air conditioner, all ready for your tenants to move into. ible, simple, adequate, tailored, visibly Superannuation Brian Paule said Defence QPS are so confi dent that we offer a FREE 3 year rent protection plan on all properties sold. 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Membership, without administration Submissions and comment on the fees, for non-ADF employer contribu- »report can be made at http://www. www.qldpropertysales.com.au! tions, would be available to a serving defence.gov.au/militarysuperreview/ Army February 7, 2008 6 NEWS Take care of body armour By Cpl Andrew Hetherington WE HAVE YOU COVERED ALL the attention, care and maintenance soldiers pay to Combat Body Armour (CBA) was ECBA comes in four sizes: small, introduced into service in May medium, large and extra large their personal weapon should 1999. Enhanced Combat Body and in weights of 7.2kg, 8.6kg, also be shown to body armour Armour (ECBA) was introduced 9kg and 9.5kg. and helmets. in March 2005. The plates are made of a ceramic Lt-Col Jason Walk, SO1 material and come in a back and Sustainment Directorate of The enhancement consists of chest configuration weighing Logistics – Army, said personnel neck, arm and groin protection 1.74kg and 1.68kg respectively. and also ballistic plates that who wore the protective equip- provide greater protection. About 6500 sets of ECBA have ment should treat it with respect been issued by DMO to the ADF. because it could save their lives. The Enhanced Combat Body have the ECBA replaced through the issuing point or Q-store for Armour (ECBA) consists of three the issuing point or Q-store. replacement. main components; the main vest, “Visual inspections should Lt-Col Walk said Defence was separate ballistic plate inserts and occur daily when the equipment is continuing to develop new protec- a helmet. used on a regular basis. Non-tech tive technologies and considered “It should not be dropped or inspections should occur monthly the safety of personnel to be of thrown on the ground when remov- and be recorded,” Lt-Col Walk paramount importance. ing it from your body, as sudden said. “When inspecting the ECBA, “ECBA which have been struck hard shocks do have the ability to personnel should inspect the plates are returned to Australia for testing degrade its ability to function at and helmet for dents, chips, cracks and analysis, in order to improve its optimum performance,” Lt-Col and any embedded foreign mate- and enhance the equipment pro- Walk said. rial. They should gently shake vided to personnel,” he said. Soldiers who believe their body the plates left to right, listening “Defence is working on the pro- armour does not meet the spec- for sounds of any loose internal gressive introduction of a Modular ifications outlined in the ECBA ceramic parts.” Combat Body Armour System, Maintenance Data Sheet NSN If defects are detected, the which will eventually replace 7610-66-155-2995 should seek to equipment is to be returned to ECBA and CBA from mid-2008.”

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Helo there: The first two MRH90s accepted into service in the ADF are pictured at Brisbane Airport (above). Greg Combet, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, was among those to attend the ceremony for the new helos. Here he meets MRH90 test pilot Maj Carolyn Breeden as Maj-Gen Tony Fraser looks on (left). Look at Photos by Cpl Rodney Welch what’s flown in

By Capt Haydn Barlow VITAL STATISTICS ARMY and Navy pilots are one step With a rate this low, closer to flying high in MRH90 heli- Powerplants: 2 x Rolls Royce copters after the first two aircraft of the Turbomeca RTM322-01/9. fleet entered service last December. Normal cruise speed: 260 km/h you can afford a few The multi-role helicopter, designed by Max cruise speed: 305km/h European multinational NHI Industries, was bought to replace the Black Hawk Crew: 4 and Sea King helicopters. Armament: 2 x 7.62mm MAG58 optional extras The first two of 46 helos purchased Seating capacity: Normally 10-14, were accepted by the ADF at a ceremony max 18 soldiers. in Brisbane on December 18. Max all up weight: 10,600kg With one of the lowest car loan interest rates available Nearly 200 people from across the government, Defence and the aerospace of just 8.26%p.a. and no ongoing fees, you can own the industry attended the event. Army and Navy will manage the air- Head of Helicopter Systems Division craft and operate identical configurations, car you want sooner and save thousands of dollars. for Defence Maj-Gen Tony Fraser said which will allow greater interoperability the ceremony marked the completion of and flexibility in training. a lot of hard work to build the initial Navy aircrew might be posted to aircraft. Army units and vice versa. For fast pre-approval, “We now go into a training and full Naval helicopter instructor Leut Paul %p.a. certification program where we can Hannigan was one of the initial crew to visit your local branch comparison develop the full capabilities, and this be trained on the helicopter in France by or call 1800 033 139. rate* MRH90 has a whole lot more than what co-designers Eurocopter. 8.26 we have previously flown,” Maj-Gen “The opportunity for the Army and Fraser said. Navy to work together towards a joint “The latest generation of this light- capability is quite exciting, especially weight composite structure, digital fly- when it involves such a state-of-the-art by-wire helicopter provides our crews aircraft as the MRH90,” Leut Hannigan *Comparison rate is calculated on $30,000 secured loan over with the best possible equipment so they said. a 5 year term, based on monthly repayments. WARNING: This can support our sailors, soldiers and air- He looked forward to working with comparison rate is true for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees and other loan amounts men on operations.” his Army counterparts and will now might result in a different comparison rate. Terms and conditions, The MRH90 can carry up to 18 sol- instruct pilots in initial transition training fees and charges apply and are available on request. diers; nearly double that of the Black in Townsville. Hawk. The MRH90 has been slated to oper- It has been equipped with a forward ate with 5 Avn Regt in Townsville, looking infrared system and weather AAvnTC in Oakey, 171 Avn Sqn in radar, as well as a digital cockpit and Holsworthy and the Navy’s 817 Sqn in the same helmet mounted sight and dis- Nowra. A period of test and evaluation, play as the Tiger Armed Reconnaissance training and aircraft development will Helicopter. This technology will enable now be conducted leading to initial oper- Defence Force Credit Union Limited the pilots and crews to fly in almost all ational capability for Navy in 2010 and DEF1147_ADV_AAN ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL 234582 conditions by day or night. Army in 2011. Army February 7, 2008 8 NEWS

Captain Lachlan Simond recovered (commonly referred to as Operation Aussie Home worked of Hanoi by family, veterans, digni- Missing In Action) for the next 35 with the Army History Unit and taries and the Minister for Veteran BEER trickled through freshly dug years. the Government of the Socialist Affairs, Mr Alan Griffin. Vietnam soil as Carmel Gillespie emptied Peter Aylett, who served two Republic of Vietnam to identify An honour guard from 1CSSB, the can into her husband’s grave in tours in Vietnam, was a driving force LCpl Gillespie’s resting place and a unit that traces its origins back to Springvale cemetery. in finding LCpl Gillespie. prepare his remains for repatriation LCpl Gillespie’s 8 Field Ambulance, After 37 years, John was home in “I should have been there that to Victoria. stood vigil before the remains were Australian soil. that day, but I got R and R and a OAH helped find 1RAR soldiers carried into an RAAF Hercules for digger On April 17 1971, Army medi- mate of mine, Tom Blackhurst, vol- LCpl Richard Parker and Pte Peter his journey from Vietnam home to cal assistant LCpl John Gillespie unteered to take my place on that Gillson, both killed in 1965. Victoria. prepared to treat a wounded South run.” Mr Aylett said. Their remains were repatriated in Vietnam veterans joined fam- Vietnamese soldier on board an 9Sqn “Tom died that day acting as a June last year. ily and current serving members RAAF Huey helicopter. forward observer; it was a place that While searching for LCpl Parker to welcome the digger home as the returns As the helicopter began to winch I was never going back to. and Pte Gillson, OAH founding Hercules touched down at Point the injured allied soldier, it was shot “In 2003, I found out that the member Jim Bourke was convinced Cook. down and LCpl Gillespie was killed. chopper A2-767 had never been the resting place of LCpl Gillespie John Gillespie’s funeral was held Due to the intensity of the result- recovered, and Gillespie was still had been found. at Glen Huntly, 15km from the cen- ing fire and the ongoing battle, his MIA. A team including the Army tre of Melbourne. home body was never recovered. “I thought I knew where it was; I History Unit recovered the remains. “In this day and age it is every sol- LCpl Gillespie would remain owed it to Blackie.” LCpl Gillepsie’s body was fare- dier’s right to be buried in Australia,” listed as killed in action, body not Veterans from the group welled from the Vietnamese capital Mr Aylett said.

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Not forgotten: A photo of LCpl Gillespie, whose helicopter was shot down in Vietnam in 1971, stands by his casket at Hanoi Airport. Photos by Cpl Neil Ruskin

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Ringside seat: Cpl Kevin Dellaway, load master 5 Avn Regt, looks at flood damage in the Clermont area. He is in one of two Black Hawk helicopters assisting with relief efforts following flooding in Emerald, QLD. The two helicopters delivered emergency fodder to cattle stranded by floodwaters as part of the coordinated relief efforts by Emergency Management Queensland. Photo by AB Paul Berry

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Airborne: Chief of Army Lt-Gen Peter Leahy takes to the skies over the Parachute Training School, Nowra, in a tandem jump with Maj Warwick Jones. Photo by Cpl Rob.

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By Capt Christopher Linden CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy paid a surprise visit to the MEAO in January to praise the courage and efforts of Iraq and Afghanistan- based Diggers. During his two-day stop in southern Iraq, the CA promoted several soldiers and officers of OBG (W) 4 during a walking tour of Camp Terrendak. He said the battle group’s mission “largely hasn’t changed”. “It remains to make sure the Iraqi people, particularly their Army, can be in a position to look after their own security,” Lt-Gen Leahy said. “It’s all about the focus of getting the Iraqis at a stage where they can look after themselves.” He also praised the Diggers’ “human touch”. “This is about people,” he said. “Working with people – protecting them, supporting them, persuading them and getting them to a point where they can look after themselves.” During a flying visit to the Reconstruction Task Force in Southern Afghanistan, Lt-Gen Leahy com- mended efforts to open the Chora Valley. “Not so long ago that area was considered too dangerous to operate in, but the advances that you have made there and the way the local people have responded to your efforts is really remarkable,” he said. “The ability of the Australian soldier to protect, show respect and persuade is a real source of pride.” Lt-Gen Leahy also sought feedback from the troops. “They asked the hard questions,” Lt-Gen Leahy said. Meet and greet: Chief of Army Lt-Gen Peter Leahy and RSM-A WO Stephen Ward meet enjoy a joke with Trooper Robert Edmonds “I’d be disappointed if they didn’t.” (left) and Tpr Timothy Hodson (right) during their visit to Australian soldiers at Tallil, Iraq in January. Photo by Capt Christopher Linden Aussie school kids send letters to diggers in Iraq

Word from home: Pte Craig Flemming reads a letter from a Ross Hill Primary School Year 5 student. Photo by Capt Cameron Jamieson

By Capt Cameron Jamieson how much time and effort had been put Tribute: Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanano Gusmao addresses International Stabilisation Force AUSTRALIAN soldiers serving in the into it,” Pte Flemming said. troops in Dili. Photo by Cpl Rachel Ingram “The boy who wrote my letter asked heart of Baghdad and in the cold of a lot of questions, and I wrote two pages southern Afghanistan received a mail- back, answering every question.” bags-full of cheer from Australian school Later that month West Australian stu- kids last December. dents sent some Christmas cheer to RTF-3 Year 5 students from Inverell, NSW, Diggers in Afghanistan. Timor Leste Prime sent a letter to each man and woman Letters written by Year 10 students from assigned to SecDet XII in Baghdad’s Green Collie High School, 200km south of Perth, Zone. were displayed in the soldier’s recreation SecDet XII OC Maj Mark Neich said hut. the Diggers were grateful for the children’s “To see kids write us letters, espe- Minister praises ISF letters from Ross Hill Primary School, cially at Christmas, really means a lot to 300km west of Coffs Harbour. us,” ASLAV crew commander LCpl Eric “It’s great to see kids supporting sol- Capt Stuart Wood He praised the bonds between infrastructure, commonly known Atkinson, 24, said. diers who are deployed overseas,” Maj the International Stabilisation as the H-POD. “They wrote that they understand our Neich said. “DEAR soldiers, yours has not Force (ISF) and the East Timorese The H-POD houses the ASPEN sacrifice, and how hard it is for us to leave “There were 110 letters, one for every been an easy task and I praise people. medical facility, helicopter support our families, especially over the Christmas soldier in the combat team, and they’ve all the professionalism, spirit, disci- “You have come here to play from the Royal New Zealand Air and New Years period.” written back. pline and technical skill demon- a critical role in a young and still Force and private contractors, and Cameron Shannon’s letter was typical “It was a real boost to our morale to strated by you here during your fragile country,” Mr Gusmao said. combat service support elements. of his classmates. know there are kids back home that are “Your families, and indeed all In one of his final engagements “I understand the risks you and your time in Timor-Leste.” aware of our presence in Iraq.” Timor-Leste Prime Minister Australians and New Zealanders, as commander of the ISF, Brig fellow soldiers take every day to protect SecDet soldier Pte Craig Flemming said Xanana Gusmao paid tribute to should be proud of you.” John Hutcheson said ISF would each other and our country,” he wrote. it meant a lot that children would take an an assembly of close to two hun- The Timor-Leste Prime continue its vital work for as long “People like you are the reason people interest in him and his fellow soldiers. dred soldiers, sailors and airmen at Minister also thanked representa- as the Timor-Leste Government like me feel safe, and I am extremely grate- “When I opened the letter I noticed Dili’s heliport in January. tives of some of the ISF’s busiest deemed necessary. ful for your courage and sacrifice.” LEAD TWICE THE LIFE WITH DMO

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By Capt Christopher Linden SOLDIERS on operations in Southern Iraq have remembered the first Australian troops killed in action overseas with the dedication of a memorial stone cairn on New Year’s Day. The memorial replicated a cairn built in South Africa for two Queensland soldiers killed during the Boer War of 1899-1902. On January 1, 1900, Privates David McLeod and Victor Jones from the Queensland Mounted Infantry were killed at the ‘Battle of Sunnyside’. These two men are believed to be the first soldiers from an Australian colonial Lest we forget: Chaplain Capt Frederick Davis pours olive oil army unit killed in combat on an over- onto the Sunnyside memorial cairn during the dedication service seas operation. at Camp Terendak, Iraq. Photos by Cpl Rob Nyffenegger More than 400 Australian and coalition personnel attended the dedication of the cairn at Tallil Air Base, which “The rock cairn was built remember the commitment and was performed by Army Chaplain Fred to remember fallen Australian sacrifice of our forebears, but also Davis. soldiers, including those from Australian soldiers serving on cur- A small group of soldiers from the Queensland Mounted Infantry, and rent operations in both Iraq and OBG (W) 4, lead by Sgt Peter Rewko, to provide a focal point for Anzac Afghanistan,” Lt-Col Websdane hand built the stone cairn following the day services,” RSM OBG (W) 4 said. group’s arrival in early December 2007. WO1 Bradley Clarke, said. The modern descendants of Many of the soldiers serving with During the dedication ceremony the QMI and soldiers from other the battle group in Iraq are from the the battle group CO Lt-Col Chris Australian units including 6RAR 2/14 LHR (QMI), based at Enoggera Websdane asked those to remem- and 7CSSB, along with the Barracks in Brisbane. ber the sacrifice of Australian serv- Australian Army Training Team This unit is directly traced from the icemen and women – both past and – Iraq, are currently undertaking original QMI that served with distinc- present. security and training operations in tion in the Boer War and later in the “This [memorial] goes beyond the provinces of Al Muthanna and Rest on arms: Tpr James Head during the Battle of Sunnyside memorial Great War. the QMI. Today we not only Dhi Qar in Southern Iraq. service in Iraq dedicated to all fallen Australian soldiers.

By Capt Cameron Jamieson The DFDA provides a stand alone dis- ciplinary code in countries where the local LIKE pieces in a puzzle, each aspect of civilian jurisdiction either does not apply or an incident scene must be carefully con- does not exist. Putting the pieces sidered. Evidence must be found, the law If an ADF member commits an enforced, and tragic incidents understood. offence against a local person in Iraq or The mystery solvers in the ADF are Afghanistan, status of forces arrangements the men and women of the new tri-service exist that allow Australian personnel to be Australian Defence Force Investigative dealt with under Australian law. Service. “Handling incidents in a combat zone, together on ops This 140-strong, highly trained unit is with all the security and geographic con- capable of investigating Service offences siderations that this implies adds a new and incidents. dimension to investigative work,” Capt Baghdad-based Capt Chris Woodhouse Woodhouse said. is the officer-in-charge of the ADFIS inves- “It requires us to use all our specialist tigators assigned to Operations Catalyst and skills, and that has been great … I would Slipper. recommend this job to anyone with an inter- He is assisted by investigators in est in police work.” Tallil in Southern Iraq and Tarin Kowt in Capt Woodhouse said the new investiga- Afghanistan. tive unit had made a major impact on ADF Extra staff can be brought forward from investigations. Australia to assist ADFIS with any major “It brings the best parts of each service event. together and it’s been really good for all our Capt Woodhouse said although it had investigators as we have a lot more opportu- been a demanding posting, he felt fortunate nities,” he said. to have a job that was an integral part of an “For example, we’ve had a Navy inves- overseas operation. tigator at Tarin Kowt and a RAAF Sergeant “It’s been very busy, but the deployment at Tallil. has been the highlight of my career,” he “I’ve visited a RAN warship in the said. Persian Gulf and worked with the RAAF, “Deployed investigators are responsible so we’ve all had a chance to learn what the for all investigations into alleged offences other Services do.” as well as other serious incidents involving Capt Woodhouse, who is about to return the ADF,” he said. to Australia, said he looked forward to con- When deployed overseas, ADF per- tinuing in his chosen profession. sonnel are subject to many aspects of “I find my work exciting because I get Australian domestic law, including the to see a case from start to finish, and have Defence Force Discipline Act. a real-time job both here and in Australia,” Recent reforms to the military justice he said. “There’s policing, surveillance system led to the new investigator unit, and and drug searches. It’s a real hands-on job, Uplifting: WO2 Lee Roberts, ADF Investigative Service MEAO, lifts fingerprints off a door handle created a new military court which can sit even in barracks, and not many Corps get to whilst at Camp Holland in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan. Photo by Cpl Hamish Paterson in Australia and overseas. do that.”

Looking for accurate, up-to-date, credible information on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs? Visit the ADF Drug & Alcohol Program website (the “AOD cabinet”) at www.defence.gov.au/health/ The alcohol and other drugs (AOD) cabinet contains a range of information, resources for ADF health and allied health professionals, policy material and links to publications and other sites of interest. ADF ATODS: The Defence Health Services response to AOD issues. Army February 7, 2008 14 AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS For a job well done

cumstances as a Medical Assistant within as the Australian Executive Officer of the 6th Engineer On Australia Day, 41 of Army’s best joined the the Special Operations Task Group – Task National Support Regiment and as the Operations Force 637, while deployed on Operation Representative in Officer on Operation Sumatra Assist. Honours’ List in recognition for their services to Slipper Rotation 3 Afghanistan, from May Iraq and Principal WO Kevin James WOODS to September 2006. Staff Officer within the United For outstanding achievement as RSM-A. Australia. Army joins the nation in congratulating DISTINGUISHED SERVICE Kingdom’s Multi CONSPICUOUS SERVICE CROSS (DSC) National Division MEDAL (CSM) all recipients. Brig Michael South East. Peter CRANE Capt Nicholas WO2 Jeremy OFFICER (AO) IN THE MILITARY Task Force deployed to Uruzgan Province, For distinguished Peter ROSE Paul ARCHER Afghanistan as part of Operation Slipper service in com- For distinguished For meritorious DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF achievement as Col Simone Louise WILKIE mand and leader- performance AUSTRALIA ship in the Middle of duties as the Company For exceptional performance of duty in command Maj-Gen East Area of the Intelligence Sergeant Major appointments within Training Command - Army. Michael Simon Operations as the Officer of of 1 Company, 1st Intelligence HINDMARSH MEDAL (OAM) IN THE MILITARY Commander Joint the Special Task Force 633 for Operations Battalion. For distinguished DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF Operations Catalyst Task Group – Task Force 637, while service to the ADF in WO2 Clayton AUSTRALIA and Slipper. deployed on Operation Slipper Rotation senior command and Charles WO1 Robert Lt-Col Michael 3 Afghanistan, from May to September BAKER staff appointments. 2006. Charles DAVISON MAHY For devotion Maj-Gen Mark For meritorious service For distinguished Col Richard Hugh STANHOPE to duty as the Andrew KELLY to the Australian Army command and For distinguished performance of duties as Warrant Officer For distinguished serv- in the field of Supply leadership in action the inaugural Deputy Commander of Joint Physical Training ice to the Australian Chain Management. as Commanding Task Force 633 on Operation Slipper in Instructor at Army in the fields of the School of WO2 Roderick Officer of Al Afghanistan in 2006. training, personnel and Muthanna Task Group Three and Infantry. operations, in particu- Edwin MASON Operational Overwatch Battle Group West. CONSPICUOUS SERVICE lar as the Commander For meritorious service CROSS (CSC) Maj Scott Robert Lt-Col Anthony John RAWLINS of the 1st Division and as the ADFA Band Col Brett BROCKHURST For distinguished command and leader- as the Land Commander Australia. Sergeant Major and Lawrence For devotion to duty as the Staff Officer as a member of the ship of Overwatch Battle Group West Grade Two Aviation Capability at MEMBER (AM) IN THE MILITARY Australian Army Band – Two in Al Muthanna and Dhi Qar BILLETT Headquarters 16th Brigade (Aviation). DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF Corps. Provinces, Iraq, during Operation Catalyst. For outstanding achievement as the WO1 Laurence James CASE AUSTRALIA WO1 Graham Athol Col Mark Andrew SMETHURST inaugural Director For meritorious achievement to the Col David Peter TURNER For distinguished command and lead- of Occupational Australian Army Band Corps. COGHLAN For meritorious service ership as Commander of the Special Health and Safety WO2 Shane GREEN For exceptional as the Artificer Sergeant Major of the 162nd Operations Task Group during Operation - Army. Slipper Rotation 3. For meritorious achievement as the Unit performance of Reconnaissance Squadron and as the Artificer Maj Kevin John Recruiting Liaison Officer and Squadron duties as the Deputy Sergeant Major of the 171st Aviation Squadron. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CUTHBERTSON Sergeant Major in the 12th/16th Hunter Commander, Joint MEDAL (DSM) For outstanding River Lancers. Task Force 633 in MEDAL FOR GALLANTRY (MG) achievement in the Afghanistan and Cpl Benjamin WO2 Andrew James HAMILTON Maj Daniel field of explosive Chief Plans Officer at James DALY For devotion to duty as the Special Air Sebastian CASH ordnance safety. Service Regiment Selection Warrant Headquarters Joint For distinguished For acts of gallantry Officer at the Special Forces Training Operations Command. leadership in Lt-Col Dean in action in hazardous Centre. Col Mark Graham circumstances during action as an Gregory FRENDIN operations against infantry section FRANKLIN Lt-Col Scott Philip HARRIS commander dur- For exceptional serv- Taliban and Anti For outstanding achievement as For meritorious achievement in the ing Operation ice as Commanding Coalition Militia while Commanding Officer of the School of acquisition of helicopter systems for the Catalyst in Iraq. Officer of The Pilbara deployed on Operation Infantry and Senior Army Representative Australian Army. Regiment and in senior Slipper in Afghanistan, Cpl Bradley – Singleton. WO1 Graeme Rodney JONES staff appointments at Land Headquarters and from June to October Ronald WATTS Maj David Charles HAFNER For devotion to duty as Regimental 2006. Headquarters Joint Task Force 633. For distinguished For outstanding achievement as the Quartermaster Sergeant at the Incident Lt-Col Michael Barry RYAN Cpl Jeremy Thomas leadership in Officer Commanding B Squadron, 5th Response Regiment. For exceptional performance of duties as HOLDER action as a Aviation Regiment and Combat Team WO1 Kathleen Leah McINTYRE Medical Assistant Commanding Officer of the 1st Reconstruction For an act of gallantry in action in hazardous cir- Vigilance. For meritorious achievement as Squadron with the Special Maj George Witold Quartermaster Sergeant of the 15th Trans- Operations Task port Squadron. Group – Task KOSCIUSZKO Force 637, while deployed on Operation For outstanding achievement as the WO2 Richard Thomas TASSELL Slipper Rotation 3 Afghanistan, from May Operations Officer of the Defence National For meritorious achievement as Wharf to September 2006. Storage and Distribution Centre, particu- Master at the 10th Force Support larly in the provision of logistic support to Battalion. Cpl Wesley Dean WOOD operations. WO2 Amir Markus TITO For distinguished leadership in action as Maj Wayne Leslie REED an infantry section commander during For meritorious achievement as the For outstanding achievement as Acting Operation Catalyst in Iraq. Artificer Sergeant Major of the 2nd Battal- Officer Commanding, Joint Movements ion, The Royal Australian Regiment. COMMENDATION FOR Control Office Townsville and Officer Lt-Col Robert Jason WORSWICK DISTINGUISHED SERVICE Commanding, Joint Movements Control Office Darwin. For devotion to duty as Staff Officer Grade Col Ashley Warren GUNDER Major David Michael SIENKIEWICZ One Concepts at Headquarters Training For distinguished performance of duties For outstanding achievement as the Command - Army.

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Army February 7, 2008 16 CENTREPIECE 17 IINSTRUCTIVENSTRUCTIVE JJOBOB Recruit instructors are well qualified to train new soldiers, Lt Kris Gardiner and Capt Chris Linden report. Photos by Cpl Rachel Ingram.

ECRUIT instructors train platoons of recruits at Kapooka – but who trains the trainers? All corporals and sergeants posted Rto Kapooka as instructors have attended the Recruit Instructor Course at the ARTC, Kapooka, where they learn how to work with newcomers to the military. “Turning civilians into soldiers is a very different task to training fully qualified soldiers,” ARTC Commandant Col Bill Hanlon said. “The course gets instructors into the right mindset to work with people who have just come off the street.” The RIC is run seven times a year within 1RTB. “Training the corporals and sergeants is very important because of the unique nature of the duties the recruit instructor undertakes,” Col Hanlon said. Training staff work closely with the Psych Support Section at Kapooka to regularly revise counselling tech- niques. “Methods of instruction and counselling have to be modified regularly to suit changes in recruiting,” instructor Sgt Paul Sidwell said. The recruit instructors in training rehearse methods of instruction on weapons, drill and field craft on their Charging ahead: Recruits from 32 Pl, D Coy, are put through their paces at Kapooka’s bayonet assault peers, before giving the same lessons to recruits. course by first leaping into the bear pit. “This builds confidence in the instructors’ knowledge and confidence in speaking to an audience,” Sgt Sidwell said. instruct recruits for temporary periods when the need Mentors guide and give feedback to new RIs, and arises. TRAINING ROLE maintain quality control when the instructors lead their “The course gives you a refresher in weapons, drill own platoon. and field craft but more importantly gives you the rel- “The standards of training are so high that when the Up to seven Recruit Instructor Courses are held each year. evant skills at the detachment phase,” student instructor Recruit Instructors’ Course is 24 days long. instructor’s leave Kapooka, they leave with a range of Bdr Troy Salter said. Temporary Duty Instructors’ Course is 22 days long, in two skills and knowledge which will make them much bet- modules. ter NCOs,” Sgt Sidwell said. Field instructors teach field craft to both Reserve and ARA soldiers. Marksmanship Instruction Course is five days. Developing the Hardened and Networked Army will Average course involves 30 corporals, sergeants and lieutenants. require an increase in the number of recruits trained at “This frees the RIs to prepare for the next group of recruits and to regroup,” Sgt Sidwell said. Regular Army recruit course goes for 12 weeks. ARTC. Reserve recruit course lasts four weeks. To prepare for the expected influx, 1RTB’s Training The training initiatives provide first-class recruit 1RTB has more than 20 platoons in training. and Assessment Section is also training temporary duty training within a competency-based assessment regime. Temporary duty instructors are brought into Kapooka as needed. instructors and field instructors. “The RIs at Kapooka have a direct impact on the Making a point: ARTC instructor Cpl Ryan Gibbs moves his section forward during a training section attack at Corporal and sergeant RIs can earn up to $30,000 extra for a The temporary duty instructor course is designed to future of Army capability. This is a very rewarding post- two-year posting, if eligibility criteria are met. the culmination of a recruit training course. give corporals from Land Command Units the tools to ing and professional experience,” Col Hanlon said.

Pushed: PTI Cpl Jason Brand gets recruits to do push-ups. Steady: An instructor supervises a new soldier’s first shoot. Organiser: Instructor Cpl Daniel Robertson during Seeing red: A recruit on the bayonet assault course. Bush walk: A shaft of sunlight falls upon members of 1 Pl, A Coy, as they undertake a 5km endurance march. a section training attack. Army February 7, 2008 18 TRAINING

Peak effort: Members of the mountaineering expedition make a descent from Camp Two in difficult conditions.

Flying the flag: Lt-Col Matt Rogerson and an SASR trooper display the SOCOMD pennant at Shivling Peak’s summit after nine hours of climbing. Taking it to the top NINE Special Forces soldiers have tested their limits – at 6500m. HEIGHT OF SUCCESS The soldiers from SASR, 4RAR The climbers make a three-day approach (Cdo), 1 Cdo Regt, SOHQ and the up the Gangotri glacier to Base Camp. Special Operations Logistics Squadron Camps are placed at 5000m, 5500m and were joined by 19 Indian Army climb- 5900m. ers – five of whom had climbed major Two mixed summit teams form from Himalayan peaks – for Exercise Australian and Indian climbers. The teams move through each camp and Himalayan Bridge last October. bid for the summit on the first day of good The mixed expedition climbed the weather, negotiating a long technical rock 6543m Shivling Peak, a difficult moun- section, an 80m wall of ice at 6100m, and tain in the Indian Himalayas. a 250m steep ice slope immediately below “It was interesting to hear one experi- the summit. enced SASR trooper say that mountaineering is as close to combat as it gets,” expe- helped generate the exercise, had worked dition leader Lt-Col Matt Rogerson said. with Indian climbers in 1991 and 1995. The climb followed two weeks of After storm-related delays on training at the Indian Army’s elite High the mountain, five Indians and four Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), locat- #ANDY"OUQUETS 'OURMET#HOCOLATES3PECIALTY'IFTS Australians began two days of difficult ed 3500m above sea level at Sonamarg in climbing through deep snow to their Kashmir. top camp. Lt-Col Rogerson, an SASR Can’t decide what to give your “The joint expedition enabled both trooper P and the five Indians made the Sen† †hree days ago... teams to exchange a lot of training, tac- summit. Valentine this year? tics and procedures … and learn a lot “It was pretty exciting to finally sum- about each others armies and cultures,” mit after the whole team had worked So was this one... Lt-Col Rogerson said. hard to establish tents and fix the route,” The Australians made firm friends one climber said. “The final climb was among the 200 Indian trainees at HAWS, surprisingly steep and I was pretty happy • Family Law Disputes where they did mountain physical con- to get back to our top camp after about ditioning training, technical rock and ice 13 hours of hard work.” • Children’s Matters skills development, river crossing and Special Operations Commander Maj- • Married/De Facto Property survival training. Gen Mike Hindmarsh said that putting • Divorce You can’t go wrong this year “We even managed the compulsory the “high profile international engage- • Child Support/Maintenance with a Candy Bouquet. Candy cricket match at base camp, although fur- ment activity together at the same time BouquetsWhich arebouquet hand-made ∑ould you ther matches were snowed out,” Lt-Col as operations in Afghanistan and APEC • DFRDB/MSBS Superannuation Rogerson said. showed the virtuosity of SOCOMD”. ﬂ oral-likerather send arrangements or receive? He said SOCOMD could learn a lot The Indian Army has had a wealth created with gourmet candies, from the Indians, who were keen to share of combat experience at altitudes up to MMILITARYILITARY CCOUNSELOUNSEL AVAILABLEAVAILABLE cookies4RYONLYTHEORIGINAL#ANDY"OUQUETBRAND and chocolates. their knowledge. 6000m, including its border conflict with CANDYBOUQUETSANDCANDYGIFTITEMS “The expedition was a great opportu- Pakistan and counter-insurgency opera- Giveh!DELICIOUSALTERNATIVETOmOWERSv a gift as unique as your love. Call Debbie today to order your Valentine’s gift” nity to cement the growing ties between tions in Kashmir. CANBERRA the Indian and Australian Army, as well The Australian interest in high alti- Ph. 02 6247 6147 6ISITTHE#ANDY"OUQUET&RANCHISENEARESTYOUWWWCANDYBOUQUETCOM as sharpen our own skills and experi- tude warfare gathered impetus with www.evansyeend.com Email: [email protected] Ph/Fax: 07-3851 3562 ence,” he said. SOCOMD’s operational commitments to [email protected] www.candybouquet.com Mobile: 0418 512 086 The Army Alpine Association, which Afghanistan. Looking for accurate, up-to-date, credible information on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs? Visit the ADF Drug & Alcohol Program website (the “AOD cabinet”) at www.defence.gov.au/health/ The alcohol and other drugs (AOD) cabinet contains a range of information, resources for ADF health and allied health professionals, policy material and links to publications and other sites of interest. ADF ATODS: The Defence Health Services response to AOD issues. Army February 7, 2008 HISTORY 19 40 years ago: Tet Offensive In 1968, celebrations of Australia Day and the Tet Buddhist festival were shattered by the Communists’ attempt to end the war in one massive blow. The Australian Task Force lost 11 soldiers during the fighting.

WHEN one thinks of late January, Australian Army Honour Roll beaches and barbeques come to mind. January 26 - February 7 1968 But 40 years ago the Tet Offensive of 1968 reached beyond lazy summer days and planted Vietnam into the Jan 26 Pte Raymond Binning, 2RAR world’s conscience. The fighting claimed the lives of 11 Jan 26 Pte Dayle Morrison, 2RAR Australian soldiers while their country soaked up the holidays and celebrated its Jan 26 LCpl Graham Norley, 2RAR national day half a world away. As Americans and their South Jan 26 Pte Walter Davison, Vietnamese allies struggled in Saigon, 8 Fd Amb Hue and Khe Sanh, Australian soldiers fought in the province of Bien Hoa dur- Jan 27 Pte Paul Trzecinski, 7RAR ing Operation Coburg and in Phouc Tuy Jan 27 Pte Alec Bell, 7RAR province. Commander of the Australian Task Feb 1 Pte Antonio Parello, AATTV Force Brig Ronald Hughes was tasked by US Lt-Gen Frederick Weyland to protect Feb 2 LCpl Ross McMillan, 7RAR the airbase at Bien Hoa and the Long Bingh logistical area from Viet Cong Feb 2 Pte Robert Perrin, 7RAR rocket attack. It was the first time the ATF had Feb 4 Pte Robert Caston, 3RAR deployed outside Phouc Tuy Province. 3RAR would be left behind to protect the Feb 5 Pte Marvin Ayres, 7RAR 1ATF base at Nui Dat. By January 24, 2RAR, 7RAR, and elements of 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, 1 Remembered: Australian soldiers, immortalised at the Australian Army memorial, fought on Australia Day Fd Regt and 161 (Indep) Recce Flt had during the Tet Offensive in 1968. Photo by Cpl Corinne Boer deployed to their area of operations. After 9 February both battalions were Both 2RAR and 7RAR began to ordered to move back to the south of the aggressively patrol their area of opera- area of operations, around two fire sup- tions. port bases codenamed “Harrison” and While barbeques smoked back home, “Andersen”. B Coy 2RAR fought its way through a From here, 7RAR was relieved by VC camp. In the face of stiff resistance 3RAR on 11 February and 2RAR was acting Cpl Graham Norley was killed. The following day C Coy 2RAR returned to Nui Dat two days later. located another camp. As they searched On February 1 1968 the VC D445 the area Pte Walter Davison, attached Battalion attacked the provincial capital to the battalion from 8 Fd Amb, was hit of Ba Ria. by machine gun fire as he tried to aid a In a bitter struggle, the ATF ready wounded comrade. He died in a US hos- reaction force and South Vietnamese pital in Long Bien. Rangers retook the city in a day. Caring for families of those who died defending Australians and their freedom.

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Please volunteer, donate or consider leaving a bequest. Thank you! Wyatt Attorneys 903/276 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 Support Legacy, so that we can continue to keep the (Next to Defence Plaza) 02 92627338 flame of care burning bright! [email protected] Call 1800 LEGACY (1800 534 229) or visit www.legacy.com.au Army February 7, 2008 20 LETTERS Full year for gap program participants AFTER some discussion at work, course and then off to a unit for anoth- employ members for such a short young people who would not normally This initiative is an alternative to I would like to know what the Gap er four to six months and then they can period when we should be focusing on commit to the ADF’s lengthy initial the traditional method of entry and Year Program aims to achieve? get out. keeping in members with experience. periods of service, to join the ADF for goes hand-in-hand with other recruit- I don’t see this helping keep peo- a year and experience the same training, retention and remuneration ini- Looking at the average time it takes LCpl Luke Threlfall ple in or really helping the retention ing and experiences as any other first tiatives that have been approved by a member to get from Kapooka to their 6RAR problem – seems more like a revolving Gallipoli Barracks year recruit. Government with the aim of growing unit there doesn’t seem to be much door type of thing. The intent is to expose Gap Year Defence capability. time left to employ people if they only Is this trying to get people inter- Lt-Col Martin McKone, SO1 Personnel participants to military training, The number of Gap Year partici- have a 12-month ROSO. ested and then ask them to sign on for Policy, responds: and foster in a percentage of them, pants that ultimately pursue lengthy Twelve weeks at Kapooka and a a further three years once they have AS THE former Defence Minister the desire to continue to stay in the service may depend largely on the few weeks at holding platoon, another completed 12 months? announced on August 9, 2007, the aim military in either the ARA or Reserve positive reception they experience at eight or so at IETs depending on the It just seems to be a waste to of the Gap Year Program is to incite components. their unit. Idea for medal clasp system I WOULD like to make a simple job descriptions. This is not their their third and fourth tour to Iraq suggestion for the future awarding fault and they should not have to – all missions have been different of campaign medals. deal with the ill-feeling from other and they have gone unrecognised A clasp system for campaign ADF members because of it. since the original issue of their Iraq medals should be introduced to However, confusion over a 2003 AASM or clasp and their Iraq clarify some grey areas in regards to member’s service could easily be campaign medal. campaign service. clarified with the addition of a clasp This clear recognition of a member’s actual mission or task would For instance, a member force- denoting a member’s particular mis- greatly reduce some of the animos- assigned to the FLLA will be issued sion, task group or organisation e.g. Secdet, SOTG, RTF, AMTG, ity that is present in the ADF when either an Iraq or Afghanistan (or it comes to who did what and where both, in some cases) campaign OBG (W), AATTI, JTF 633, FLLA. The addition of clasps for each in particular campaigns. medal for his or her tour of duty. I mean no offence to any mem- deployment or mission would also Although not a big deal in the bers of organisations mentioned as scheme of things, that member will show if a member had deployed to examples in this letter – but I do be wearing some of the same dec- the same country in the MEAO on think that this should be looked at orations as, for instance, a mem- multiple occasions but on different seriously so that members get the ber of SOTG doing the hard yards missions, which is something that recognition they have earned the against the Taliban on the ground at present the member gets no rec- right to wear. in Afghanistan – hardly a suit- ognition for. Recognition: A reader suggests a clasp system be introduced to identify a Sgt Kent Sparke able arrangement, considering both There are members within my CT Waler, OBG (W) 4 member’s mission, task group or organisation. Photo by Cpl Rob Nyffenegger members’ day-to-day activities and own combat team backing up for Iraq

HAVE YOUR SAY ■ PREFERENCE is given to letters under 250 words. Letters may be edited for space and for grammar. ■ LETTERS must include the author’s name, unit, location and contact number. ■ LETTERS might be rejected if they are too long, abusive or can be answered by the author’s unit. ■ EMAIL letters to [email protected]

Crest Craft MILITARY INSIGNIA RINGS

Cast in solid gold Much-loved: The late Sgt Matthew Locke, SASR. or silver Thanks for support Send stamped S.A.E. for an illustrated brochure to: CREST CRAFT ON behalf of the family of the late Sgt Matthew PO Box 178, Macclesfield SA 5153 Locke MG, I would like to thank everybody for the Phone/Fax: 08 8388 9100 or 0438 577 000 love and support shown to us all in the tragic loss www.crestcraft.com.au of our much-loved Matt. Rowan Locke [email protected] Ex-6RAR NAVY, RAAF, RMC Duntroon, Airfield Defence, RAAC, Everton Park, Queensland RAR, RAA, SAS & 1st Comm Reg also available

VEHICLE SALARY PACKAGING AT FLEETNETWORK.COM.AU Army February 7, 2008 PERSONNEL 21 ADF has got you covered Your guide to the main features of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme.

THE ADF prides itself on the comprehensive scheme that provides a range of BENEFITS IN BRIEF treatment, rehabilitation and compensation options should members suffer physical or mental injuries or contract an illness Pension and incapacity benefits Weight out: Sgt Stephen Woodhouse and Pte Kerry Redford workout in a strength training session as a result of their military service, accord- First 45 weeks of incapacity: 100% of nor- as part of the 2HSB rehab program. Photo by WO2 Graham McBean ing to Head Personnel Executive Maj-Gen mal ADF pay and pay-related allowances. Michael Slater. After 45 weeks of incapacity: 75% of nor- Maj-Gen Slater said the scheme also mal ADF pay and pay-related allowances. provided substantial benefits for death as A Special Rate Disability Pension of $469 a result of service. a week tax-free may apply depending Some of the major provisions of the upon degree of incapacity, subject to Military Rehabilitation and Compensation other Government benefits offsets. Scheme (MRCS) are outlined here. More Helping hand on detailed information is available at www. Permanent impairment mrcs.gov.au. The maximum lump sum payment is $350,964 and the maximum weekly pen- Compensation for death sion is $267.83 tax-free. In the event of a service-related death, a dependent partner can choose between Dependent children path to recovery a tax-free, lifetime pension or a tax-free An additional lump sum of $68,949 lump sum actuarial equivalent of the life- may be paid for each dependent child, time value of that pension. A further tax- depending upon the degree of permanent Capt Simone Heyer is treated to an insight into the free lump sum is payable in addition to the impairment. pension or pension equivalent lump sum. Substantial benefits are also payable rehabilitation program at 2HSB. for dependent children, including a tax- free lump sum in addition to a weekly pen- PEOPLE recline on the gym rehabilitation to ensure a soldier available to members recovering sion payment. Dependent children may Superannuation benefits is recovered enough to complete from injury or surgery. Superannuation benefits may also be mats, their limbs elevated on also receive education assistance. piles of pillows and strapped a return-to-work program. The Sgt Stephen Woodhouse, A dependent partner is entitled to a payable in the event of an ADF member’s rehab program is the first link in 7CSSB, says some people have a DVA Repatriation Gold Card, which pro- death. These benefits may be paid to with bone-chilling ice packs. They exchange good-natured that process. perception that the program is an vides the partner and dependent children eligible recipients or the member’s estate, By day four, it’s hard to haul easy ride – “ but it’s not the case”. depending on marital or partnership sta- banter – onlookers could mistak- with health care benefits the same as yourself out of bed. Muscles ache “Since Pete got hold of me tus, and entitled dependents. enly think the road to recovery those provided to war widows. from the gym sessions. Everyone after my knee surgery I’ve lost a In addition to statutory compensation, was easy. For more information, go to www.dva. finds it hard to push that bit fur- lot of weight and gained upper a member discharged on medical grounds 2HSB’s injury and illness gov.au/factsheets/default.htm ther to do an extra set of sit-ups body strength,” he says. “This pro- may be entitled to superannuation invalid- rehabilitation program has been or increase weights. A mid-morn- gram has physically prepared me Rehabilitation ity benefits depending upon the degree of helping ADF personnel recover The MRCS focuses on providing treat- incapacity and ability to undertake other ing session in the pool takes the to return to work.” over the past decade. Program impact off our bodies and refresh- Pte Kerry Redford, JHSA, ment and rehabilitation services to help employment. co-founder Dr Michael Naughton Superannuation benefits vary es our minds. says there’s always someone to members suffering a service-related injury says last year more than 200 sol- or illness to make as full a recovery as according to which military superan- Dr Naughton says 10 years laugh with you about your injury. nuation scheme applies. For the Military diers, sailors, airmen and women ago nothing was in place to fully “Everyone knows where you’re possible and return to their normal military passed through their doors. duties or, after discharge, civilian work if Superannuation and Benefits Scheme, manage the recovery of personnel coming from with pain and recov- Today, 11 soldiers vie for they are able. For current serving mem- visit www.militarysuper.gov.au. For the from injury. ery. We joke with each other, bers, most rehabilitation services are deliv- Defence Force Retirement and Death a place on the mats. Under the “To ensure members’ health which helps with the healing.” ered through Defence. Benefits Scheme, visit www.dfrdb.gov.au. watchful eye of a physiotherapist was fully managed after leaving Mr Jenkins says some people we flex and balance, stretch and Medical discharge is the last option. Insurance the service, we needed to manage need a week or two in the pro- Wherever possible, personnel who no lift. After a cardio session in the their illness or injury in-service,” gram, others stay for months. longer meet health standards for their The MRCS and military superannua- hospital’s hydrotherapy pool we Dr Naughton says. One of his success stories is an trade or profession are offered retrain- tion schemes offer a comprehensive range all look forward to the next part of “A recommendation of the Air Force member who arrived in of benefits and substantial payments so ing for another employment category. For the program – a healthy morning Tanzer review into military reha- a wheelchair after a car accident. those who are medically unfit for service, ADF members and their dependents can tea of sandwiches and fruit. maintain an appropriate standard of liv- bilitation and compensation was At the end of his rehab program every assistance is given for their transi- Rehabilitation physical trainer that rehabilitation programs be put he was able to walk, and return to tion to civilian life. ing. Nevertheless, ADF members have and former WO2 PTI Pete Jenkins into place Defence-wide. 2HSB work – still employed by the ADF. Information is available at www. differing personal circumstances, financial says a place in the program is needs and commitments. offers one of these programs.” Dr Naughton says the program defence.gov.au/health/DRS/i-drs.htm and offered to southeast Queensland www.mrcs.gov.au Members who have significant finan- The ADF Rehabilitation helps people return to their pre- cial commitments such as a mortgage or members who may have difficul- Program was implemented across injury jobs, move to other jobs Incapacity and disability consumer finance, might consider private ties with their injury recovery. Australia in September 2006 and in the ADF, or train for civilian Members who cannot continue ADF insurance to supplement military compen- Mr Jenkins says the program was based on many aspects of employment. service might be eligible for a range of sation or to pay out their debts in the event provides rehabilitation for all the existing 2HSB rehabilitation Each member is allocated a benefits, including treatment, impairment of death or disability. Members should types of injuries, both physical and system. contracted rehabilitation pro- compensation or incapacity payments and obtain independent professional advice mental. As the group supervisor, WO1 Leanne Iseppi, LWC, gram case manager. They act as a DVA white or gold card benefits, depend- from a licensed adviser. he is responsible for more than is in the program after an ankle conduit between the health prac- ing on the nature of their illness or inca- For general information, visit the ADF just compiling physical training reconstruction. She was sceptical titioners, the member and their pacity. Permanently-impaired members Consumer Council website www.adfcon- plans as he offers encouragement, of the program before she started. commander to ensure restrictions can choose between a tax-free lump sum, sumer.gov.au and click ‘Getting Advice’. friendly conversation and, some- “I thought it would be a waste are met. weekly pension or a combination. The Defgram 189/2007 also has information times, a sympathetic ear. of time,” she says, “but the pro- Dr Naughton is clearly proud amounts vary according to the degree of about the Services Security Plan injury A typical day involves sessions gram is a holistic approach to of what his team has achieved in disability. and accident insurance. of hydrotherapy or swimming, recovery. We get fitness, dietary helping young men and women Other benefits may include voca- Because family and financial circum- injury-specific training, an educa- tional and social rehabilitation, home help, stances can vary widely, members should lessons as well as relaxation. Pete of the ADF recover and return to attendant care, alterations to residence also consult DVA and ComSuper for more tional class, resistance training and is building us up to a higher fitness work. And from experience, the and assistance with the purchase, modifi- definitive advice on whether their personal stress and pain management. standard.” personnel who leave the program cation or maintenance of a motor vehicle. situation warrants private insurance. Mr Jenkins says it is impor- Mr Jenkins says it is important are much better physically pre- tant to provide a good level of commanders know the program is pared to return to work. Army February 7, 2008 22 PERSONNEL New allowance for special role

THE Defence Force Remune- TIER ELEMENT CONTINUOUS DAILY ration Tribunal has approved a Special Forces Disability 1 Qualified SAS member in SASR $31,352 $85.90 Allowance (SFDA) to recognise 2 Qualified Cdo in 4RAR (Cdo), including TAG(E) $25,082 $68.72 the special nature of work per- Qualified Cdo in 1 Cdo Regt (online support) formed in or in direct support of 3 SFTC Qualified Instructor (SAS and Cdo) SOCOMD. Special Forces Reinforcement (SAS and Cdo) $18,813 $51.54 This follows an ADF review Qualified Cdo reservist in a Cdo unit (daily rate) of the Special Action Forces Qualified SAS reservist in SASR (daily rate) Allowance and Specialist 4 IRR Disablement Technician $15,676 $42.95 Operations Allowance. The review focused on how these allowances 5 TAG Medic or Ammunition Technician $11,915 $32.64 were applied to members serving IRR Operator in SOCOMD. 6 Support member $6273 $17.19 On November 30, the Tribunal agreed with Army’s proposal to create the SFDA. Special Forces Allowance and those role played by the Special Forces Operations Commander Maj-Gen parts of Specialist Operations Training Centre in training SF Michael Hindmarsh welcomed the Allowance related to Commandos reinforcements. decision, saying “SFDA provides and the IRR. A daily rate of the allowance an holistic, equitable and consist- SFDA particularly recognises has also been extended to SF ent regime for the payment of dis- the additional demands and haz- reservists serving in SOCOMD Moving forward: The new Special Forces Disability Allowance recognises the nature ability within SOCOMD”. ards associated with the evolu- units, including 1 Cdo Regt. of the job done by these 4RAR (Cdo) members and other SF soldiers. SFDA is a six-tiered structure tion of the Commando and IRR The new allowance took effect Photo by Cpl Chris Moore that replaces the Special Action capabilities since 2002, and the on December 13, 2007. TOWNSVILLE, one of the fastest Reserve pay update growing cities in Australia! By Sig Rebecca Saun After 30 years in the armed forces Ian Peterson has turned his hand RESERVE Career Management Agencies are working with Director- to the property market. Understanding the unique ﬁnancial needs of General Personnel and other relevant Australian Army personnel, coupled with Benchmark Developments agencies to ensure that ADF Reserve proven track record for building great value, high quality apartments, pay is finalised. To enable the Army to place officers Ian is perfectly positioned to assist with your real estate needs. under the approved Graded Officer Pay Structure (GOPS) and soldiers under the expected structures for Graded Other Ranks Pay Structure, a full review and confirmation of Army Reserve members is being undertaken. This covers: Review and confirmation of placement under the Reserve Remuneration Review (RRR), which the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal approved in 2006. Placement of Army Reserve officers under GOPS. Placement of Army Reserve members under subsequent iterations of GOPS and other pay cases. A significant outcome of the RRR was the partial removal of the discounted Net effect: Cpl Steven Ward, 5/6RVR, I am conﬁdent rate that previously applied to Reserve and all reservists look forward to the pay. In December last year, the case was outcomes of the Reserve pay review. that we have presented and approved for all Army Photo by Cpl Chris Moore the right Reserve officers to be placed within the RRR or GOPS, contact your career pay structure in the same manner as their adviser at your regional Army personnel properties for ARA counterparts. agency or Directorate of Reserve Career GOPS has been approved with effect Management – Army (DRCM-A). you! from August 9, 2007. DRCM-A’s site on the DRN features For more information regarding the updated information regarding GOPs.

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6%()#,%3!,!290!#+!').'!4WWWmEETNETWORKCOMAU Army February 7, 2008 PERSONNEL 23 Reporting for duty ACROSS the Army thousands of The PRP has two general purposes. soldiers have marched in to their new The first is its use as a personal devel- units. Removals, induction training, opment and counselling tool. The BFAs and a host of other things have second is to assist the assessor in the preparation of the assessed member’s been demanding attention – and, annual PAR. if you’re a supervisor at any level, The PRP is designed to record you’re about to get even busier. agreed goals, provide performance By now, most COs will have written feedback to the member, identify their PAR directives appointing asses- strengths and weaknesses and provide sors, senior assessors and reviewing constructive guidance for the reminder officers within their units and providing of the reporting period. During the ini- them with guidance on managing the tial counselling phase only Part 1A of Performance Appraisal System (PAS). the PRP is completed. Midway through The PAS is a three-step process the reporting period the assessor and which consists of Initial Counselling, the soldier should review progress Mid-Term Review and the annual against the goals and discuss perform- Personal Appraisal Report (PAR). This ance to date. In addition, the assessor article will briefly cover the first two should use this opportunity for iden- steps as further articles on the annual tification of training or other develop- PAR and the Personnel Advisory mental requirements needed to enhance Committee will appear in later editions. individual performance. Initial counselling and goal setting When this process is conducted should have occurred within the first properly the mid-term review should 30 days of the reporting period and, provide a sound basis for the remainder where a member is posted to a new of the reporting period for the produc- unit, goal setting and initial counsel- tion of the PAR. It also serves to mini- ling is to occur inside the first 30 days mise surprises. The mid-term reviews after the member assumes duty. If this are recorded on pages two and three hasn’t happened, you should see that of the PRP. However, it is important to it does very soon. Initial counselling remember that counselling should not and goal setting are completed using be limited to the initial and mid-term form AC833-24 Preliminary Review of sessions, this is the minimum, and there Performance (PRP) and form AC833- may be more than one formal review Peak performance: Pte Lukas Woolley (rear) checks the ammunition state with Pte Daniel Ball during a range 14 Preliminary Review of Performance during the reporting period practice in Iraq. Like all soldiers, their efforts are assessed through the PAS. Photo by Cpl Rob Nyffenegger for ADF Officers » DOCM-A contributed this article. Further bonus opportunities

THIS year again offers the opportunity for many Army members to accept ONLINE GUIDANCE the Army Expansion Rank Retention (AERR), Critical Employment The latest information on the bonus schemes and administrative Category Retention (CECR) or the new processes is available at http:// Think bigger Pilot Bonus (PB) Scheme. intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/ While the formal instrument for PB sites/STAYARMY is still to be issued, specific details of the other two bonuses can be found in with our low rate Pacman volume 1, chapter 3, part 5, divi- tation is required to be retained by the sions 19 and 20. responsible career management agency. The AERR and CECR acceptance Eligible members have 90 days, from and approval process remains largely receipt of an offer from their CO, to make unchanged from 2007. a decision and return that decision to their personal loans unit. If a member is serving overseas, the AERR start of the 90 days can be deferred until Under the AERR, as at March 1, all he or she returns to Australia. corporals or sergeants with two years’ Whether you’re after a pool, a holiday or even a new continuous ARA/CFTS worn rank and Pilot Bonus kitchen, with a Defcredit Personal Loan you can afford captains or majors with three years’ con- It is expected the Defence tinuous ARA/CFTS worn rank, who did Determination will contain the following to take the plunge and splash out on the ﬁ nishing touches. not receive the bonus in 2007, are likely detail: You get a competitive rate so your monthly payments to meet the eligibility criteria for pay- The application period for the scheme ment. A member can only be offered a will be from February 1-29. will be lower, no early repayment fees so you can pay bonus after eligibility is confirmed. It will be targeted at members who are performing the duties of quali- off your loan as quick as you like, and a choice of CECR fied flying instructors and test pilots repayments that won’t restrict your lifestyle. This is an ongoing scheme where all at captain and major level during the members of a critical trade (as listed in eligibility period of the scheme. Defence Determination 2007/8) are eligi- The bonus will be a one-off payment Think bigger with our low rates. ble to accept this offer. of $30,000 on acceptance of an under- Trades will be added and removed taking for a further 12 months’ serv- To apply, log onto www.defcredit.com.au from the list when Army considers trade ice. visit your local Defcredit branch numbers have become critical or are no Members subject to other non-pilot longer considered critical. training ROSO may be eligible for this or call 1800 033 139. Under both the retention schemes, if bonus. a member decides to accept a bonus, the Members subject to a pilot training, Terms and conditions apply and are available on request. member’s CO will approve payment and QFI or TP ROSO as of February 1 will DEF1075_ADV_QP the unit will forward the original docu- not be eligible for this bonus. ments to SCMA-A or DOCM-A (for the DOCM-A staff will contact eligible member’s career manager) and a copy to members before February 10 to provide DEFPAC to initiate payment. further details of the scheme. Where a bonus offer is rejected, a CO All in all these bonuses are a good may wish to interview the member to start to 2008 for eligible members and understand how Army can better encour- are a part of Army’s continuing commit- age members to take up future retention ment to retain members. Defence Force Credit Union Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL 234582 initiatives. Non-acceptance documen- » DMPA-A contributed this article. Army February 7, 2008 24 PEOPLE

In remembrance: Lyle Martin, President of Coraki RSL Sub Branch, presents an Australian Flag and a 3RAR sash to Christine Anderson in memory of her Father Arthur O’Brien. Arthur was a member of 3RAR and served in the Korean war 1950-51 as the RP Sgt.

Dad’s home: LCpl Peter Dimmack, 1 Bde, with his wife Rebecca and son Ryan at Darwin Airport after returning home from Iraq where he had spent six months supporting OBG (W). Photo by Tpr Michael Franchi

Party time: HQJTF 631 staff in Dili, Timor-Leste open the goodies sent in for Australia Day Celebrations. (left to right) Sgt Mary-Ann Holland, 1 MP Bn, Ops analyst Hayley Reynolds, RAAF Sgt Liz Crean, Timorese interpreters Floriana Maria Rosa Pinto and Luis Cardoso Martins, Cpl Luke Jones, 1 MP Bn. Photo by Cpl Rachel Ingram

Ready to roll: SECDET XII’s Artificer Sergeant Major, WO2 Michael Frawley, stands next to his ASLAV - Fitter’s A breather: RTF-3 soldiers Sgt Justin Smith and LCpl Michael Crossley Variant in Baghdad. The recovery vehicle has been named after the patron saint of soldiers, and like St Michael take a break in their ASLAV in the Chora Valley Southern Afghanistan. of old the mechanic and his recovery vehicle watch over a warrior flock. Photo by Capt Cameron Jamieson Photo by Capt Al Green

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Visit:- http://adfgraduationpathways.com.au

adfgraduationpathways Level 4, 234 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: (612) 9251 8844 Proudly supporting the Defence Personnel Executive ADFHEAS Scheme Army February 7, 2008 MARK TIME 25

WHO: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering members. WHAT: Armygeddon promotion. WHERE: Summernats, Canberra. WHEN: January 4. Words: David Edlington Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

Cfn William Hook, a trainee mechanic, Cfn Ruan Westermann has been a joined the Army a year ago. “ I was studying mechanical apprentice for 18 months. “I computing, but I’m not really a desk person joined the Army because it’s not a day- so I thought the Army was the way to go,” to-day dead-end job,” he said. “Also, I’m a he said. He is proud to be involved with big outdoor nut – I like to go camping and the Armygeddon project. “They showed us four-wheel-driving. Now, I get to do both.” He Armygeddon on our induction day and I liked enjoys taking his fully modified Nissan Patrol what I saw. I turned up as a volunteer one where “there’s a bit of mud and rocks”, but day and haven’t left since. If it breaks we fix it’s a different thrill behind the wheel of the it, if it doesn’t we do all the maintenance and Army’s street machine. “It’s very easy to kick modifications so it looks different each year.” it out and get it sideways with lots of smoke, Summernats was his second promotional but the hardest thing is getting back in a outing with the street machine; the other straight line. Getting back in my car after was to the Gold Coast Indy 300 car race. He that, it feels like I’m driving around Miss said Armygeddon’s admirers fell into three Daisy,” he said. He is proud of the behind- categories: “tyre-kickers”, those who want the-scenes work on Armygeddon. “Fixing to know all the technical details and those it after hours then seeing it out on the park genuinely interested in the Army. His own car doing a burnout the next day – that’s what is a Mitsubishi Lancer. makes it all worthwhile. It’s a privilege to work on this machine.” Cpl Ben Hewett has been in the Army “just shy of nine years”. His posting to ASEME as an instructor has helped put his life back on Cfn Veronica Page, a trainee mechanic, track after a boat accident in which his 12- joined the Army last July. “When I leave year-old cousin Asher died and his best mate the Army, whether it be six years or 20, I Troy suffered brain damage. The boat hit a can’t see the point in not having a trade,” submerged log in a river at Echuca. (The first she said. She first became interested in anniversary of the tragedy fell on the day practical skills when she did woodwork in Army spoke with Cpl Hewett at Summernats). Year 9. “I made a nice little table, which I “I was in a wheelchair for months and had to still use today.” She is excited to be part learn how to walk again – but I got off luckier of the Armygeddon team and, while “not than the others,” he said. “One of the great a car nut like the boys, I’m getting there”. things about being posted to trade school She detailed cars for a few years, but her – apart from the good karma of working with previous experience with vehicles cannot Armygeddon – is being close to my family compare with her role now. “I enjoy waking and Troy.” He grew up in rural Victoria and up and going to work because I’m learn- has “always mucked around with cars”. He ing something new every day. And working and his brother had a Datsun 120Y when he on a car like Armygeddon, that’s unique,” was 12. “I was pretty partial to an old Sunbird she said. A keen netballer, she likes the we had. I was 14 and stubborn and had an fact that Army life incorporates physical argument with Dad; I reckoned it could run training. “Now I don’t have to struggle to on diesel, he didn’t. I made it half a ‘k’, so I exercise before or after work, which is a big proved him wrong, sort of.” He enjoys his job one for me.” and values the “brilliant support” – particularly from his old unit, 1RAR – in the past year.

1800 809 308. www.landrover.com.au

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The new, more powerful line up of 2007 Land Rovers is here. With a list of beneÞts for the Australian Defence Forces that includes 3 years/100,000kms free scheduled service, 3 years/100,000kms factory warranty, factory corporate rebates on all models, reduced new vehicle delivery cost, even free passenger compartment ßoor mats. Range Rover Vogue is available in the ultimate Supercharged V8 with 291kW petrol of power, and the reÞned and acclaimed TDV8 diesel, that delivers a huge 640Nm of torque. Range Rover Sport is also now available in Supercharged and TDV8, as well as V8 and TDV6. Discovery 3 TDV6 has a maximum torque of 440Nm, while the V6 Petrol has 160kW of power and 220kW of power for the V8 petrol. All New Freelander 2 has a choice of 3.2 litre i6 petrol engine with saloon car performance, or economical 2.2 litre TD4 turbodiesel with an exceptional 400Nm of torque. Both coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with CommandShiftTM And the soon to be released 2007 Defender has a new 2.4 litre common rail diesel producing 20% more power than the previous engine. Check out the complete deal for the full range of Land Rovers. For full details contact your Land Rover Retailer and introduce yourself as a Land Rover Corporate Client.

LAND ROVER GO BEYOND

*3 years or 100,000 kms whichever occurs Þrst. Excludes wear and tear items, tyres, battery, oils and additives. **Recommended maximum delivery cost $995 inclusive of GST. Where applicable. L5279 Learn from the ADF family all you need to know about your money.

The ADF Financial Services Consumer Council, an ADF initiative, was created to ensure that you will always have independent, ﬁ rst rate, regulator approved, professional ﬁ nancial information while also looking after your consumer interests – regardless of your needs. To make thisinformation simple and easy to understand, the Council has developed a number of ways for you to access and become acquainted with the key issues.

The program is appropriately titled ‘Your Planner as well as background information ces F Financial Servi AD ncil Consumer Cou Money and You’ and is presented ﬁ rstly in on the Council. These resources will also be a

YOUR ADF Financial Services Consumer Council three separate booklets ... Getting Advice, key part of the education programs, currently

O MONEY

U AND

M WORK

O Making Your Money Work and Buying a YOU MAKING YOUR MONEY being rolled-out across the ADF.

N VEHICLE EY VOLUME ONE YOUR

D MONEY

Vehicle ...easy to read yet critically important Y AND It’s comforting to know that when it comes to

U YOU WORK

R MONEY information and guidance when it comes to VEHMAKINICLEG YOU learning about your money, the ADF Financial VOLUME ONE Services Consumer Council is there to help you. managing and maximising your money. The DVD is an entertaining and informative overview of ‘Your Money and You’ and is an ideal introduction to the program. Alternatively you may wish to visit the Website which is comprehensive yet easy to navigate and understand. It includes an Online Budget

ADF Financial Services Consumer Council ADF Financial Services Consumer Council

For more information visit www.adfconsumer.gov.au or contact us at [email protected]

FPC1R2.indd 1 15/11/07 9:08:20 AM Army February 7, 2008 LIFESTYLE 27 Aim to hit the mark Setting targets and exercising self-control are vital for financial security.

NYONE firing on the range ble principles with investing you are on wants to hit the bullseye. But ONLINE COMPANION much safer ground. you can’t expect to do that Do your homework and get advice, ASIC’s consumer website, Fido at without understanding your especially with large amounts of money. A www.fido.gov.au, offers all sorts When you buy a home, there’s a lot to weapon and your target or without of help about money. ASIC’s “Risk check: the condition of the building, self-control. In many ways investing is and return calculator” can help whether it’s affected by other planning a bit like that. Unfortunately, we con- you compare the return offered by developments, and whether you’re get- tinue to see examples of investors los- a proposed investment with the ting a firm and secure title to the prop- ing money they can ill afford to lose. relevant sector of the market. Ask erty. Do the same with any other type of Fido whenever you’re considering Take care investment. an important financial decision. As an ADF member, you are drilled Take things slowly and calmly. Make to understand that your life may well sure you fully understand whatever depend upon the readiness and use of you’re getting into. Some types of invest- spread your bets so that you’re not going your weapon, so you have to look after ments can be so complicated that even to lose everything on a single investment. it. So, too, your finances, which are vital experts find them hard to understand. With shares, you may want to use a to your financial wellbeing. Indeed, some products are deliberately Money invested into your military managed share fund, where a professional investment manager picks the invest- styled to be confusing. It’s perfectly OK super scheme or a bank deposit is about to simply avoid these; why take the risk? as safe as you can get. However, the ments. You can also invest a little bit of In the end, you decide to pull the trig- amount you can contribute to the military money regularly, instead of a lump sum ger and you take the responsibility for super scheme is limited by law. Money all at once. That way, you don’t have in a bank account, earning around 4.5 per to make a single bet on whether market what eventuates. cent a year, is unlikely to grow any faster prices will go up or down. » This column was provided by ASIC on than increases in the cost of living. Your target behalf of the ADF Financial Services If you want to earn more than you can Consumer Council. Feedback can be sent When it comes to money, your target at the bank, you have to accept a greater to [email protected] Take aim: Strive to hit your financial targets. Photo by AB Paul Berry risk of losing money in bad years or with is going to depend on your own personal risky ventures, sometimes even incurring needs and circumstances. If you have a permanent losses of both the income and family to support, you may need to use the original capital invested. more of your available cashflow now Money in real estate, either your own but you may also need to make sure SAVE TIME AND MONEY home or an investment property, can your family will be secure if anything grow faster than money in the bank, but happened to you in the future. If you nobody can guarantee that so you have to have big dreams, you’ll need to set more be very careful to pick the right home in ambitious targets than someone who’s the right place. happy to live more modestly, but recog- Shares are like that, with a higher nise the increased risk in doing so. expected return but also with a higher Before investing, make sure you think degree of risk. Generally, the rule is: the hard about what you’re trying to achieve higher the return, the higher the risk. and what’s right for you and for those Remember that any investment where who depend on you. there is potential for rises and falls in value is dependent on general economic Self-control conditions. If you can’t control yourself, you’re With care and good advice, you can a danger to yourself and others. That’s manage these risks but there are no guar- as true with money as it is in a military antees. One of the simplest ways is to situation. If you stick to careful, sensi-

Regional Manager Southern Vivien Allen Save Money by Combining Your Debts

The Christmas school holiday how much you need to borrow. season is a time when many of 3. Apply for a debt consolidation us overspend on things like gifts, loan – online at www.adcu.com. holidays and entertainment. Then au, by phone on 130 13 23 28, or early in the new year, the bills arrive. see your local branch. Unfortunately, it is also a time when there are many other expenses such 4. Once your loan is approved, as school fees and utility bills. we’ll pay out your card and loan balances. Trying to juggle repayments for Alternatively, this may also be a good credit cards, store cards and other time to review your credit cards and debts is not just expensive – it can consider an Australian Defence Combine your debts into also be quite stressful. That’s where Credit Card instead. It offers a low Australian Defence Credit Union 8.25%pa* introductory rate which one simple repayment can help. reverts to a low 12.80%pa* rate You can save money by combining after six months, an interest free period of up to 55 days, and a low all of your credit card and other debts ● Cut the cost of multiple card & loan payments annual fee. You can transfer your into one simple loan repayment. ● Combine all your credit and store card bills into one simple loan When you consider that some outstanding balances and pay only ● fi nancial institutions charge interest the introductory rate for the fi rst 6 Fast online applications - online, by phone or at your local branch of over 20%pa* personal loans the months; plus you will also enjoy this ● Loan repayments deducted directly from your pay amount you save could be quite rate on all your transactions. substantial. Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply and are available on How Does it Work? application. APPLY ONLINE – WWW.ADCU.COM.AU 1. Work out which debts you need to combine (note: this will probably * Introductory rate effective 23.01.08, fi xed APPLYBYPHONE– 1300 13 23 28 for 6 months, then at our standard credit mean having to cut up a card to card interest rate, currently 12.80%pa OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL BRANCH two!). (subject to change without notice: 2. Add up your debts to calculate see www.adcu.com.au for details) Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply and are available on application. Level 8, 1 York Street Sydney NSW 2000, Phone: 1300 13 23 28, web: www.adcu.com.au Australian Defence Credit Union ABN 48 087 749 741 AFSL 237 988 Army February 7, 2008 28 LIFESTYLE

DIKKO By Bob Dikkenberg Say again, over

If you can think of a clever, witty caption to this picture, email [email protected] with “caption competition” in the subject line. Keep entries under 25 words. Entries must include the sender’s name, rank and CROSSWORD unit. Winner published March 6. ACROSS 17 Element (Symbol 35 Ostrich-like bird 54 Transfix B) 39 Rural plot of land 1 Department (Abbr) 56 Story 18 Block of data 40 Otic adornment 4 Spiteful 58 Now (Computer) 41 _____ Armstrong, 60 Threesome 9 Old injury mark 20 Seed vessel first man on moon 62 Expression of dis- 22 Stupor 42 Inappropriate 13 Exclamation of gust 25 Ripen 44 At sea surprise 63 Advice 14 Ironic 27 Sicken 45 _____ Vegas, US 28 “Honest _____” gambling city 64 Large tub 15 Old (President Lincoln) 47 Raincoat 65 Dirt 16 Former Soviet 29 Circular plate 49 Notch 66 Cereal Union 32 An age 51 Small penguin 67 Arrived

DOWN 30 Freeze 1 Frighten 31 Hindu goddess of beauty Solution 2 “Whats?” 33 Female swan 3 Turkish governor 34 Edible mushroom 4 Arrest 36 Belonging to him 5 Situated on 37 Chemical suffix 6 Hot wind 38 Turkish leader 7 Walked 43 Spiny ant-eater 8 ____ and Yang 46 Literary gossip 10 South American aquatic 48 Sum rodent 49 Rhythmic accent 11 High note 50 Indian city 12 Bailiff 52 Immature insect 19 French, here 21 Talk 53 Affect emotion 23 Balloon basket 54 Decant 24 Author or deliverer of a 55 Indonesian dish, ____ funeral oration goreng 25 Hindu title 57 In the past 26 Level cut on hillside 58 To clothe 29 Level of karate profi- 59 Japanese currency ciency 61 Braggart (Colloq) (1.2)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

1.Who played Herman Munster in the 1960s TV series, the Munsters? 2.Who was recently appointed manager of English football club Newcastle United? 3.What was Marilyn Monroe’s real name? 4.For what two movies has Australian actress Cate Blanchett been nominated for an academy award? 5. Who was the winner of the 2006 and 2007 Allan Border medals? 6. In the novel Jurassic Park, what is the name of the company that cloned the dinosaurs? 7. Which Australian Prime Minister was born in Chile? 8. What was the name of the Austrian royal who was assassinated in 1914 triggering World War I? 9. Who was the famous author who fought in the Spanish Civil War and served as a policeman in Burma? 10. In what year did the late Sir Edmund Hillary climb Mount Everest?

ANSWERS

Elizabeth:The Elizabeth:The 4. 7. John Christian Christian John 7. 10. 1953 1953 10.

Baker InGen 6. 9. George Orwell George 9.

3. Norma Jean Jean Norma 3. 5. Ricky Ponting Ricky 5. Ferdinand

2. Kevin Keegan Kevin 2. I’m Not There Not I’m Archduke Franz Franz Archduke 8.

1. Fred Gwynne Fred 1. and and Age Golden Watson

Layout.indd 1 22/08/2007 3:27:47 PM Army February 7, 2008 LIFESTYLE 29 SICK PARADE Avoiding a heart of tin ADF members experiencing personal issues have a range of services open to them, Lt Bill Heck writes. IKE Hans Christian “The Australian man likes to be seen who love them, was to remember what Andersen’s steadfast Tin as being tough, strong and in charge was important. “If someone demon- Soldier, Australian soldiers, but when it comes to communicating strates inappropriate behaviour there is sailors and airmen have he often doesn’t know what to say or always a root cause or reason that can L how to say it,” he said. “It seems some be teased out,” she said. bravely done their duty but struggled men are scared that what they say or the to communicate – sometimes with emotions they express will be perceived The welfare services stress that tragic results. as a sign of weakness.” every individual is different, not only The ADF provides a range of wel- It is a misconception to regard a in regard to their needs but also in their fare services for members who might mental health issue as career ending, treatment because there is no template. be struggling with their relationships according to Maj Paula Stratton, of the They suggest that any member who or their mental wellbeing, but there is Psych Support Section. might have a problem should talk to often a reluctance to access help. “Our job is to get personnel back somebody who can direct them to help. Maj Lindsay Bancroft, of DCO, said to where they were and help them one of the biggest challenges for his cope with life’s pressures, not have From there the individual member organisation was to encourage families them kicked out.” Maj Stratton said. makes the decisions based on the range to participate in events and workshops. “Generally the earlier someone seeks of services available for the problems he “We have lots of good programs and help the easier their problem is to solve, or she might experience. support for families but are continually which results in less impact on their While there is honour in being stead- faced with the problem of marketing our career.” fast, there is no glory at all in reducing services and getting people to attend,” Deployments, courses and support relationships to a cinder by not asking he said. for other units put pressure on families for help. It’s too late when all that’s left Maj Bancroft said poor communica- and that creates a challenge between Shattered: A sculpture in the Australian War Memorial of a traumatised tion was one of the fundamental prob- work and family life. Padre Catie is a heart of tin. WWI Digger. The current generation of Defence personnel is lems leading to anger, which then could Inches-Ogden said the most important DCO’s programs and courses can be encouraged to seek help when it’s needed. Photo by LAC Aaron Curran escalate into conflict. thing for Defence personnel, and those » found at www.defence.gov.au/dco SPILT POPCORN 2008 Crowe takes on mob Kapooka Sports Series American Gangster Kapooka Sports Series Russell Crowe, Denzel Washington. Rated M15+ (157 mins) All ADF teams welcome Russell Crowe returns to top form in Proudly Sponsored By American Gangster, director Ridley Scott’s unique take on the American mob story. Crowe plays Manhattan detective Richie Roberts, a man struggling to come to terms with not only his own personal demons, but also a city being torn apart by drug abuse and police corruption in the late sixties. Prizes POC This is until Roberts is given the chance to head up a police task force Thousands of dollars prize Kapooka 12s AFL attempting to stamp out those very problems that are spreading through New money trophies and gifts, WO1 Ian Marston York like a cancer. Crowe’s performance 02 6933 8247 is more A Beautiful Mind than Gladiator, post carnival functions 0429 202453 with his character being riddled with self-doubt and insecurities. with free buses into town. Roberts’ investigations will eventu- Top form: Oscar winner Russell Kapooka 7s Netball ally lead him to Frank Lucas (Denzel Crowe plays Manhattan detective Capt Steff Roe Washington), the drug kingpin of Richie Roberts in the Ridley Scott- Manhattan. Born into a mob family and directed American Gangster. 02 6933 8495 inheriting the throne upon his father’s Accomodation death, Lucas hatches an ingenious plan The Key to American Gangster is its to rule the drug trade in New York City. refreshing take on the mob story –most Limited accomodation Kapooka 10s Rugby Having seen American soldiers people know about the Italian-American return from the Vietnam War addicted to available at the RAAF Base WO2 Sean Milligan ARRMYY RRECCRRUUI Heroin, Lucas purchases the drug in large influence on organized crime but who [email protected] IITIT 02 6933 8409 quantities from the war-torn country, knew of the African-American domi- nance of the drug trade in New York in TTR RE transporting it back on USAF Aircraft to or RAAIINIINNGGCCEENNTRTE avoid detection and satisfying the ever- the 60’s and 70’s? Camping accomodationHHO ROr ARTC Ops Cell growing demand. Despite the length of the film OMM EIRER EE O LDDI Having grown accustomed to seeing (approaching three hours) and some available at Kapooka. OFFTTHHEESSOOL 02 6933 8363 Washington in “do-gooder” roles, his rather graphic drug scenes, an enthral- portrayal of the ruthless drug-lord Lucas ling story and strong performances keep is refreshing. It is no issue for Lucas the viewer interested. With the back- to gun down his rivals in the middle of drop of the Vietnam War and based on a busy Manhattan sidewalk with hun- a true story, American Gangster seems dreds of witnesses – he is the king after all, and Manhattan is his Kingdom. As somewhat more believable than the all- Roberts’ task force begins to make an too familiar mob tales depicted in The 15 Mar 08 15 Mar 08 8 Mar 08 impact and Lucas’s grip on his empire Godfather and The Sopranos. These guys becomes tenuous, a dramatic and surpris- are the real American Gangsters. Kapooka 12s AFL Kapooka 7s Netball Kapooka 10s Rugby ing climax ensues. - By LAC Kane Mckay Army February 7, 2008 30 SPORT Army triathlon triumph AN AGE advantage and a superior swim leg helped Army’s Lt David Hodge win the blue ribbon event at the Australian Defence Sports Triathlon Association’s championships at Penrith late last year. A stellar field of 40 lined up for the Olympic distance title with rain on the horizon and defending champion, Air Force’s Geoff Hanckel taking a break this year to be the race coordinator. Lt Hodge won the overall honours by 19sec from Air Force’s Flt- Lt Richard Gardiner, RAAF Base Richmond. The race was the closest in years but with few weaknesses in his reper- toire, Lt Hodge was not to be denied despite the steadily rising temperature. Lt Hodge’s 2hr 7min and 25sec was achieved with a 22min and 45sec swim leg, 1hr 4min and 28sec for the eight-lap bike course and 40min and 12sec for the 10km run. That gave him the overall and men’s 18-24 category titles. Pte Wayne Eliott was third overall in 2:09.20 after a 22:47 swim, 1:04.42 bike ride and 41:51 in the run. He also won the M25-29 category. Despite being under pressure for the first time by a fast-finishing Cpl Renee Simons (Army), who revelled in the heat, Capt Kirstan Hoppitt (Army) won the women’s overall and 25-29 category in 2:25:48 (31:54 swim, 1:07:13 ride and 46:41 run). Second and third were Army’s Cpl Simons in 2:28.30 (30:50, 1:14.44, 42:56) and Pte Shelley Marsh in 2:43.27 (27:50, 1:17:56, 57:41) and Pte Marsh also won the 18-24 year category. Blue ribbon: Lt David Hodge (above) runs towards Capt Hoppitt’s win completed a victory at the Australian Defence Sports Triathlon carnival clean sweep in a standout per- Association’s championships. formance. Three races were contested over In her stride: Pte Shelley Marsh (right) maintains a the four days, as well as a triathlon comfortable pace to win the 18-24 year category. expo and a special visit from the 2007 Ironman World Championship runner- up Craig Alexander. The ADSTA aquathon champion- Pte Eliott again proved the man to beat A field of about 30 lined up for The bike and run legs began to sort Capt Hoppitt won the women’s title ships began proceedings in a race con- in the water as he made up an enor- the sprint distance, when the ADFA out the field with the in-form FSgt in style by almost 7min. She was in a tested over three legs - 1.5km, 300m, mous amount of time. Falcons took an early lead out of the John Hovius moving to the front, right class of her own, also taking outright 1.5km. Lazy Bones maintained their water and onto the bike with Cpl Luke on the tail of the lead team. seventh. The speed was on from the outset momentum to win in 13min and 55sec. Woodland (Army), In the end the ADF Falcons were with Team Lazy Bones taking an early The first individual male across the Cmdr Dave Trudgian (Navy), and able to hold off FSgt Hovius to win in Full results for all races and sponsor lead and setting a blistering pace. Into line was Pte Eliott in 15min and 7sec AC Brenton Hetherington (Air Force) a respectable 1:2:13 with FSgt Hovius links and info can be found at the the pool, a trail of contenders trailed and the women’s title went to Capt in hot pursuit, to make it a real tri - 3min behind in winning the ADF ADSTA website. closely looking to take control, though Hoppitt in 17min and 9sec. Service battle. sprint title. 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February 7, 2008 Page 30

FRESH from its national championships at the Federal Golf Club in Canberra late last year, the ADF Golf Association will embark on an ambitious tour program in 2008-2009. An ADF representative team (hand- icaps 7-18) will tour South-East Asia in June and a top-level ADF Combined Services scratch side will tour Britain in June/July as guests of the Royal Navy. A similar side will venture to New Zealand again in early 2009. Wg-Cdr Trevor Owens, who organ- ised the recent national titles, said that the squads for SE Asia and Britain had been identified, with the final team make-ups to be formally announced later this month. Army’s Bdr David Schwartz, 20 STA Regt, is the new ADF champion after producing some great golf (68, 72, 75, 77 for 292) in almost perfect golfing conditions at Federal. Schwartz’s opening four-under-par round of 68 set the scene for his start- to-finish four-shot victory over Navy’s LEUT Darryl Whitehead (DMO Canberra) who carded rounds of 70, 75, 76, 75 for 296. Air Force’s Sgt Greg Fraser, 382ECSS, (72, 78, 74, 76 for 300) suc- cessfully defended his 2006 title, leading home Cpl Peter Reinke, 44WG DET Tindal, by a comfortable 10 shots. Lt Ben Magi, 16 AD Regt, became Army Champion, shooting rounds of 76, 77, 79, 78 for 310, three shots ahead of Gnr Chris Turnbull, 1 Fd Regt. Flt-Lt Zalie Munro-Rustean, SAW East Sale, was the leading woman player, with Will Semmens, GTESPO Williamtown, winning the APS title. In the net events, WO Murray Widdeson, SCIT Canberra, was the runaway winner from PO David Toms, HMAS Kuttabul, Army’s Sgt IInn tthehe Nick Jago RMC Duntroon, Air Force’s Sgt Darren Pay, HQGTW Wagga and APS’s Simon Downs, DMO Canberra. Pte Chris Crooks, SOLS Sydney, and LCDR Brian Schlegel, of HMAS Stuart, were in a class of their own with holes-in-one during the tournament. Pte Crooks made his on the 135m the par-three 16th on December 11 and LCDR Schlegel followed suit sswingwing on December 12 on the 173m par-three third hole. Wg-Cdr Owens said the event went smoothly in ideal weather. NNationalsationals pproviderovide As an added highlight, this year the ADFGA had hosted a New Zealand Defence Force Combined Services bbasease fforor ggolfolf ttoursours Golf team for a week of golf in Sydney, followed by the championship week in Canberra. The NZDF team had mixed results, with wins against an ADF NSW side at On target: WO1 Peter Hawken, Kogarah and St Michael’s Golf Clubs LHQ Townsville, keeps his eye but was soundly beaten by the ADF on the ball at the ADF Golf Combined Services team before the National Titles in Canberra. nationals event. Photo by LAC Aaron Curran In the main event, a nominated ADF team of players were comfortable winners over the NZDF in an aggre- gate team event held over the four days of the tournament.