THETHE AUSTRALIANAUSTRALIAN RESERVISTRESERVIST Defence Reserves AssociationAssociation
Issue Issue 30 30, April April 2018 2018 The Official TheJournal Offcial of the Journal Defence of theReserves Defence Association Reserves Association
Front Cover Apr 2018 with bleed.1 1 17/03/2018 9:03:14 PM MERIDABIKESAUS MERIDA.com.au THE NEW eONE-SIXTY The same sophisticated riding characteristics as the purely pedal-powered version – and all perfectly combined with the fun factor of an electric motor. The eONE-SIXTY is stable yet playful on the descents, super agile on the trail and effortless uphill. Offering you the perfect chance to enjoy your favourite trail again and again or venture further onto trails yet to be discovered.
FURTHER. FASTER. FITTER.
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SPECIAL OFFER 10% off RRP for MERIDA E-bikes purchased from participating dealers between 25th April & 31st May 2018.
Exclusively distributed by Advance Traders Australia. Visit merida.com.au or call 1300 361 686 for your nearest dealer. THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVISTTHE - October AUSTRALIAN 2017 RESERVIST (Official Journal of the Defence ReservesTHE AUSTRALIAN Association) RESERVIST ISSN 1835-694X THE AUSTRALIANCONTENTS RESERVIST - A ril 2018 DRA Office Bearers(Official Journal of the Defence Reserves Association) 1X From the President ISSN 1835-694X 1X The Orchard and Big Sky Publishing PrizeCONTENTS for Best Articles XX
CallDRA forOffice Contributions Bearers and Membership Enquiries XX1X2 DeployedFrom the Presidentto Iraq during the Battle for Mosul - MAJGEN Jeffrey Rosenfeld 1X3X4 Training with the Rifles - LT Elizabeth Normand 4X The Orchard and Big Sky Publishing Prize for Best Articles XX6 Profile on the Director General Australian Navy Cadets and Reserves: CDRE Mark Hill 1X Call for Contributions and Membership Enquiries XX6 Army Reservists on Exercise Reaper’s Run - CAPT Lucy Saaroni 1X Prince of Wales Award Report: Georgia on my mind - MAJ Duncan Munro 5X8 Memorial to National Servicemen - CAPT Barry Presgrave (Retd) 1X Feeding the Army - PTE Daniel Kamateros CAPT Lucy Saaroni 2X Book Review - ‘Militia Units of Maryborough 1860 -1901’ - reviewed by LTCOL Nev. Taylor 13 1X VALEHelping Colonel keep James the Peace: Wood Serving on Operation MAZURKA - MAJ Murray Stewart 15 3X2X
KeyCommemorating Presentations the from Battle the of 2017Beersheba DRA National 100 ears Conference on - Images by CPL Nunu Campos 182X TheAustralian Light Horse Army Today Reserve and Transformation: its Forebears - AMAJ Total Duncan Force Munro- LTGEN Angus Campbell 202X4X TheRole Defence of the Legislation DVA in Providing Amendment Assistance Act 2017 to Reservists- Changes to - ReserveGraig Orme Service Protection 224X3X MentalDRSC: Health: Working It iswith not Employers ust a problem to Support for the Reservists Military - -Leonie Jane McAloon Christopherson 262X Current and Proposed Initiatives Affecting the ADF Reserves - RADM Bruce Kafer 2X The Tulugal Programe: Producing Optimised Cavalry Scouts - CAPT Lucy Saaroni 28 2X Reserve Contribution to Navy Capability - CDRE Mark Hill 3X The People’s Republic of China: uo Vadis - BRIG Robert Atkinson 303X Army Reserve Initiatives and Report on ABCANZ Conference - BRIG Mike Annett 2X Ready Set Mud: Adding something new to the Milskills Competition - CAPT Lucy Saaroni 332X Designing the Future Air Force Reserve Force - GPCAPT Tony Hindmarsh 2X The Road from Regular to Reserve Service - SGT Matthew French CAPT Lucy Saaroni 1X Government position on opportunities for the Reserve Forces to improve ADF capability 35 2X Book Review - ‘Romsey’s Tribute 1914 to 1919’ - reviewed by LTCOL Neville Taylor 1X Opposition position on opportunities for the Reserve Forces to improve ADF capability 36 2X
The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the DRA. Contributions and comments or queries regarding the content of the DRA Journal should be directed to the Editor at email: [email protected] or post to PO Box 88, Briar Hill, Victoria 3088. The Journal views and is published opinions by expressed arrangement in the with articles Ontime are Publications. those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the DRA. Contributions and comments or queries Enquiriesregarding regardingthe content advertising of the DRA should Journal be directedshould be to directed Steve Moxey to the Mob. Editor 0400473200 at email: [email protected] Ph. 02 9643 8314 or via oremail: post [email protected] PO Box 7264, Point Cook, Victoria 3030. The Journal is published by arrangement with Ontime Publications. 01 Enquiries regarding advertising should be directed to Steve Moxey Mob. 0400473200 or Ph. 02 9643 8314 or via email: [email protected] 1 01 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
DE ENCE RESERVES ASSOCIATION ra or au NATIONAL EXECUTIVE National President: MAJGEN Paul Irving AM PSM RFD Immediate Past President: MAJGEN Jim Barry AM MBE RFD ED Deputy-President: MAJGEN Ian Flawith AO CSC Vice President Navy: CAPT Joseph Lukaitis RFD RANR Vice President Army: MAJGEN Neil Wilson AM RFD Vice President Air Force: AIRCDRE Kathryn Dunn Vice Pres. Def Health: MAJGEN Jeffrey Rosenfeld AC OBE National Treasurer: WO2 Catalina Sankey email: [email protected] E itorial Committee CMDR Peter Hicks OAM RFD RANR LTCOL Neville Taylor RFD LTCOL Stefan Landherr RFD MAJ Elizabeth Bedggood LTCOL Ian George OAM RFD ED PO Box 7264, Point Cook VIC 3030 email: [email protected] STATE EXECUTIVES NE SOUTH ALES President: COL Graham Fleeton RFD Treas: LTCOL Catherine Lewis psc RFD Sec: WO1 Warren Barnes OAM PO BOX 1065, Singleton NSW 2330 VICTORIA President: BRIG Peter Alkemade RFD Treas: LTCOL Bruce McClure RFD Sec: MAJ Brian Smith PO Box 7264, Point Cook VIC 3030 SOUTH AUSTRALIA President: BRIG Robert Atkinson AM RFD Sec Treas: LTCOL Stefan Landherr RFD 20 Grevillea Drive, Banksia Park SA 5091 ESTERN AUSTRALIA President: LTCOL Dick Cook AM RFD Treas: BRIG Duncan Warren AM RFD Sec: CPL David Cooper 21 Wattle Street, South Perth WA 6151 TAS ANIA President: COL Stephen Carey RFD Treas: MAJ Richard James Sec: MAJ Malcolm McWilliams GPO Box 729, Hobart TAS 7001 UEENSLAND President: COL Chris Cunneen MSt.J Treas: MAJ Peter Jenkins Sec: MAJ Trevor Herrod C - 9 Lapworth Place, MANL WEST 4179 LD NORTHERN TERRITOR President: COL Jeff Dunn CSM RFD Sec Treas: MAJ Jim Wright PO Box 1091, Darwin NT 0801
2 00 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
P02991 3
P02991_Generic_VVCS_A4_Poster_FA.indd 1 6/08/15 12:41 PM THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
RO THE PRESIDENT Assisting Reservists with making claims to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) for service related health issues is becoming an increasingly important task for DRA State Branches. One of the issues facing Reservists in making a claim with DVA lies in the paucity of or difficulty in accessing health and service records held by Defence. State DRA Branches are represented on five of the eight DVA State or Territory Consultative Forums and can make representations on behalf of individual Reservists, whilst the DRA, as the only organisation specifically advocating on behalf of Reservists, is now represented on the Ex-Service Organisations Round Table (ESORT). ESORT is the main forum of advice to the Minister of Veterans’ Affairs, including dialogue between the Military Rehabilitation Compensation Commission, DVA, ex-service organisations and Defence communities, including Reservists. This allows the DRA to provide direct input to the DVA and Minister on issues affecting Reservists. One issue that I have raised was the very commendable decision made by the Federal Government in 2017 to provide a White Card enabling treatment for a range of mental health problems to any member of the ADF who has undertaken at least one day’s full-time service. Unfortunately, this means that any Reservist who has not undertaken any full-time service, regardless of their years of service as a Reservist, is ineligible for a White Card. I am hopeful that we will see a resolution of this issue in the near future. We have one ADF consisting of both full-time and part time members. As far as possible, the policy makers and Government should ensure that both groups of ADF members are treated equitably. At the March ESORT meeting, I was able to speak to Minister Darren Chester, our third Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel in as many months. One issue I raised with Minister Chester was the February media releases published in the Service newspapers on the appointment of Minister Michael McCormack as then Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel that he was proud to be looking after the interests of the 58,000 serving men and women and 300,000 veterans... Regrettably, these media releases completely ignored the 25,000 Reservists as well as the thousands of ADF Cadets, both of which fall under the responsibility of the Minister. The DRA is also represented on the DVA Female Veterans and Families Forum where our representatives can propose issues aimed at improving the support provided by DVA to female veterans, their families and widows of veterans. In November 2017, Federal and State Ministers responsible for veteran issues agreed on a common definition of ‘veteran’ that is to be recognised by all Federal and State urisdictions. ‘Veteran’ is now defined as a person who is serving or has served in the ADF , including all Reservists. This is an important cultural change that has been embraced by Defence and the ADF, but will take time to work its way through the culture of the Defence community. DVA is undergoing a ma or transformation and veteran centric reform process aimed at changing the culture of the organisation to one that is veteran centric. This is a long-term process but I am very pleased at the progress to date. The Government has committed considerable funds to update the aging DVA IT systems, DVA records are being progressively digitised (so that hard copy records do not have to be transported around the country), liaison with and system improvements have been made between DVA, Defence and the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation, and DVA has successfully rolled out the MyService application that significantly improves the initial liability process. Credit must be given to the Secretary of DVA and senior DVA officers in driving the DVA transformation process. In response to the recommendations of the Senate Inquiry into suicides by veterans and ex-service personnel, the Australian National Audit Office is currently undertaking a performance audit on the ‘Efficiency of veteran’s service delivery by DVA to assess whether DVA is efficiently delivering services to veterans and their dependents’. This performance audit report is due to be tabled in Parliament in June 2018. The Senate Inquiry also recommended that the Government request the Productivity Commission to review the legislative framework and administrative processes within DVA with the ob ect of simplifying the system. The DRA will participate, along with a number of Ex-Service organisations, in this review. AVAILA ILIT O RESERVISTS TO SERVE’ is the theme of the 2018 DRA National Conference that will be held on Satur ay 25 Au ust 2018 at the Vibe Hotel at Canberra Airport. At the Conference we aim to examine the challenges facing Reservists in making themselves available for service and the actions required by Government and the ADF to ensure Reservists can serve. Put this date in your diary now. Planning for the 2018 DRA National Conference is well under way. Finally, on behalf of the DRA, I would like to congratulate our unassuming and humble Vice President Defence Health, Jeffrey Rosenfeld, who was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the General Division of the 2018 Australia Day Honours List. Sadly, there was not one Reservist who received an Honour in the Military Division of the 2018 Australia Day Honours List for their Reserve service. This is an indictment on the current system in the ADF for nominating Reservists and appears to ignore the fact that many Reservists make considerable sacrifices to meet their Reserve obligations on top of their civilian work obligations. In the words of Winston Churchill, our Reservists ‘are twice the citizens’ and their Reserve service and commitment should be recognised where appropriate. We will be taking up this matter with both the Minister and the Chief of the Defence Force. With my best wishes, Paul Irving National President
01 4
THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE ORCHARD I SK PU LISHIN OOK PRI ES OR EST ARTICLES
The Orchar Pri e: In order to encourage the submission of high quality and interesting articles, Captain Malcolm Orchard RFD ED (DRA SA Branch) initiated the Orchard Prize for the best published articles. There are potentially two prizes each edition: one for the best article by an officer and a further prize for the best article by a non- commissioned officer or other rank. Also the editor-in-chief may award a prize for thought-provoking articles.
The i S y Publishin oo Pri e Big Sky Publishing (www.bigskypublishing.com.au) generously offer a book prize for historically-themed articles.
The prize winners are chosen by the Editorial committee taking into account the relevance of the topic in promoting Reserves, the overall quality of the article, the issues raised, the topicality and the perceived interest level. The prize winner for this edition is:
a or Duncan unro Private Daniel receives Australian Kamateros receives Light Horse: the World War 1 campaign in the Middle Commemorative Cook East, 1916-1918 by Book by Captain Phillip Bradley (Allen David Hopgood (Big Unwin Publishers) for Sky Publishing) for his his most informative article on the what it article on his is like to be a cook in experience training the Army Reserve. with the United States Department of Homeland Security and the US National Guard under a Prince Of Wales Award.
CALL OR CONTRI UTIONS The Journal is published twice yearly, in April and October. Our aim is to have a quality publication that promotes the interests of Reservists and the Australian Defence Force. Articles of interest include but are not restricted to: reports from Reservists on operations, issues for debate, Reserve Policy, structural reforms, awards, current events, Reservists in the news, historic articles with links to the Reserve, letters to the editor, relevant book reviews, etc. Articles (preferably in electronic format - Word Format) should be sent to the editor c - PO Box 7264 Point Cook, VIC 3030 or if submitting by email send to [email protected] Pictures should be submitted as separate high- resolution JPEG format files or print quality originals. Articles for the October 2018 edition should be submitted by 10th September. Early submission is greatly appreciated. E ERSHIP EN UIRIES The Defence Reserves Association is a tri-service organisation with the aim of supporting the Australian Defence Force and, in particular, promoting the interests and safeguarding the concerns of the Defence Reserve component of the ADF. Further information can be found on the DRA website www.dra.org.au Membership is open to all individuals and organisations with an interest in defence. Reservists, both retired and currently serving members, are welcome to oin the DRA regardless of their membership of other associations. Application for Membership should be made through the Secretary or Membership Officer of the appropriate State Branch. NSW: PO BOX 1065, SINGLETON NSW 2330 [email protected] NT: PO BOX 1091, DARWIN NT 0801 [email protected] LD: CAG-NR Victoria Barracks, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane LD 4000 [email protected] SA: 20 Grevillea Drive, BANKSIA PARK SA 5091 [email protected] TAS: GPO Box 729, HOBART TAS 7001 [email protected] VIC: PO Box 7264, POINT COOK VIC 3030 [email protected] WA: 21 Wattle Street, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151 [email protected]
6 00 Honouring our Anzacs
The Royal Australian Mint is proud to present its special military commemorative coins to mark signif cant periods of conf ict and remember those who have fallen.
Visit our online shop today to pick up a special memento.
4 2
1 3
1. 2018 $1 Fine Silver Proof Coin 2. 2018 $5 Coloured Silver Proof Triangular Coin 3. 2018 $25 Gold Proof Coin 4. 2018 $2 ‘C’ Mintmark Coloured Uncirculated Coin
Order yours today! 1300 652 020 Intl ph: +61 2 6202 6800
eshop.ramint.gov.au THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
PRINCE O ALES A ARD REPORT EOR IA ON IND a or Duncan unro Australian Comman an Staff Colle e (Reserve) nder the auspices o the e ence eserve upport Council, the Prince o Wales A ard provides Army eserve members to undertake a development opportunity that bene its their civilian career n ctober 16, Ma or uncan Munro o the th 19th Prince o Wales s Lighthorse egiment as a arded a Prince o Wales A ard to attend training ith the nited tates epartment o Homeland ecurity in eorgia, A n addition to the P WA A ard, Ma or Munro also received support rom C E to undertake a t o- eek secondment ith a ational uard unit hile in eorgia he Cavalry Liaison icer supporting his visit also arranged a guided tour o the niversity o orth eorgia s Military Cadet Program, a innovative recruitment and training stream or Active uty and ational uard o icers Here is his story Intro uction The incredible opportunities offered to me by the Prince of Wales Award (POWA) scheme led to me spending a month in the United States, establishing working relationships and developing my professional understanding of processes, procedures, issue identification and resolution and deepening my understanding and appreciation for oint training and operations in both the military and law enforcement fields. e eral La Enforcement Trainin Center In my civilian career, I am a Federal Agent assigned to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) Close Protection capability. This role requires me to plan and co-ordinate the security overlay for Australian High Office Holders domestically and internationally and for foreign dignitaries visiting Australia. The training undertaken by AFP Close Protection operators must remain consistent with best practice and my successful POWA application allowed me to undertake the United States (U.S) Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Protective Service Operators Training Program (PSOTP) conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), Glynco, Georgia, USA. FLETC Glynco is a former US Naval Air Base that was converted in the 1960s to facilitate training for a multitude of US Federal Agencies following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The Center has evolved into a world- class training facility, with the collective corporate knowledge of more than half a century of operational lessons learnt. FLETC now delivers training to 91 US Federal Agencies at its 1,600 acre purpose-designed facility, that includes a large physical training complex, seven driver training areas, and eighteen firearm ranges. The site features unparalleled training resources that can be adapted to suit the diverse training of specific agencies such as the Transit Security Authority Close Protection Driver Training with a twist and a turn providing Point of Entry security at airports and Treasury Officers working for the Internal Revenue Service, to high-end tactical response training for DHS Immigration and Citizenship Enforcement (ICE) agents training for operations patrolling the porous border between the U.S and Mexico. In addition to state of the art lecture and computer facilities and forensics laboratories, FLETC offers a physical training complex incorporating Olympic size pools, athletics tracks, weight and cardio equipment while providing instructor and logistic support for every sport from basketball and squash to kayaking and scuba diving. Simulation facilities can replicate operational scenarios and conditions to improve driver training, weapons handling and marksmanship and
010 8 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST officer interaction with suspects. All physical and technical training resources are supported by qualified and highly experienced sub ect matter experts from the various federal agencies. With nine Training Divisions operating across the same facility, support from relevant experts is always available. A landmark feature of the facility is a purpose built ‘training city’ with working facades, that includes commercial properties, government buildings, residential houses and apartments, a theatre, a three-level tactical room-clearance facility, a multi-level mock airport connected to air-frames, and a subway station complete with train carriages. The city is laid out with a central business district, a commercial zone, a residential area with streets of houses ranging from low income trailer parks to country estates and large two-story homes, all furnished and dressed and capable of being ad usted depending on the nature and ob ective of the training being conducted. There is also a full-scale replica of a border crossing point. The intensive 14-day PSOTP was delivered by expert instructors from the Secret Service, Federal Air Marshal, FBI, US Defense and private contractors. The training incorporated Close Protection lessons learnt through experience from all Federal and State US law-enforcement agencies. The program covered cutting-edge close protection tactics, protective intelligence and planning, motorcade and tactical driving, firearms and protocol. Working alongside participants and instructors from Secret Service, Military, Treasury Department, National Security Agency, Pentagon staff and State Police, I also learnt about the complexities of inter-agency and multi- urisdictional law enforcement operations.
Federal Agent Munro presents a momento to one of the Homeland Security Instructors
The practical skills developed included armed and unarmed tactics supporting the extraction of a protected ‘Principal’ from any situation impacting their dignity or safety. These were tested in controlled training environments on-site and reinforced off-site in real conditions around Georgia. Like every aspect of the PSOTP, the driver training package was intense, thrilling and filled with skills enhancement activities to improve the officer’s ability to avoid situations that might place the Principal at risk or to extract them effectively should a situation be presented. Interagency co-operating and consistency in techniques and principles was reinforced throughout the syllabus and was evident in all aspects of the training and conduct at FLETC. Our final exercise involved interacting with local police, civilian support agencies and even the US Coast Guard. During the practical assessment, I took part in a maritime extraction using the Savannah River to move a Principal to safety and co-ordinated a rendezvous with the protection motorcade in downtown Savannah before resuming the Principal’s planned itinerary. The level of fidelity in the training was phenomenal. Participants were completely immersed in the scenarios and everything was designed to replicate the working environment. The instructors had extensive operational experience, that brought a depth of credibility to their advice and guidance. I learnt so much in such a short time. Lessons learnt In addition to receiving a Close Protection qualification from a leading agency in the field, I established valuable 2 9 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST liaison architecture between DHS training staff and AFP Close Protection management that will influence future interaction. On a more tactical level, I have already supported visits to Australia by other course participants who were accompanying their protected Principals. Other valuable outputs from the training exchange were: Joint Training In a security environment where knowledge transfer among allied agencies is essential to maintaining an effective ability to respond to emergent issues, training together promotes collaboration, reduces inefficiencies and provides shared understanding. Consistent Training The benefits of a common professional operating standard between close protection capabilities across all Government law enforcement improves response and allows improvements in practice to be shared across stakeholders efficiently. Best Practice Incorporating lessons learnt and sharing this knowledge with partner agencies is an area where many security agencies historically fall short. The continuous improvement models being fostered at FLETC by DHS are worth replicating. Visit to University of North eor ia The University of North Georgia (UNG) has four campuses across Northern Georgia and is recognized as the State Leadership Institution and one of six Senior Military Colleges in the U.S. Included in its 18,000-strong student body are approximately 800 members of UNG’s Cadet Corp The Boar’s Head Brigade. The Dahlonega Campus is the centre for Cadet life with its grass parade ground surrounded by gold-filled mountains and crowned by the gold plated steeple on Price Memorial Hall, a reminder of the region’s rich history and strong traditions. This inspirational setting for academic study and leadership development is enhanced by contemporary lecture and study facilities with on- campus accommodation and social and adventure activities catering to every level of ability and motivation and more than 200 courses of instruction available to students. In addition to world class leadership training and the guaranteed employment in the U.S Military on completion of their degree, those electing to enroll in the Cadet program are offered incentives including partial or full support for their academic fees at UNG, opportunities to represent UNG and Boar’s Head Brigade at sporting and military activities, remuneration for attending training exercises and parades, international study opportunities, experience shadowing Active Duty units during exercises and training and assistance with tutoring and development for their academic and military endeavors. With a history dating back to 1873, the Boar’s Head Brigade has been producing future leaders and is a highly desirable and valued foundation opportunity for students developing their leadership potential and future employability. Interestingly, participation in the Cadet Program does not ust prepare its members for careers in the Military. In addition to the regular commissioning program, which sees graduates awarded Second Lieutenant Rank in the US Active Duty or National Guard, the program is also open to applicants who nominate as Non-Commissioning. These cadets receive the same training in leadership, problem solving, critical thinking and discipline, but are seeking future employment in the private sector or State and Federal Government as leaders in those fields. This relatively new addition to the program is proving popular and effective with graduates entering careers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection. With the increasing requirement for these agencies to work alongside the military, this program is providing value for all stakeholders. I was hosted on my tour of the campus by the Assistant Professor of Tactics, Captain Eli ah Carroll, an Active Duty Cavalry Officer with experience training and leading both Active Duty and National Guard personnel. I was pleasantly surprised how well the cadets are immersed in all elements of campus life. The facilities and activities on offer are really preparing the students for a future as leaders in the military, government or corporate world. It is such an incredible opportunity for anyone seeking to push the boundaries of their motivation and attitude. Lessons Learnt Freedom of choice - The Cadet program provided at UNG offers a unique opportunity not currently available to Australian students or potential military officers. Academic choices for ADFA graduates are more limited and understandably specifically targeted to make the graduates more employable by ADF. With West Point being the pinnacle of their military leadership training, like our Royal Military College - Duntroon is for Army, the formation size and budget in the U.S provides a freedom to offer ‘second-tier’ programs like the UNG Senior Military College. Adaptability - Some opportunities presented by the Cadet program are available through our Part Time General
10 3 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
Service Officer Course, conducted in modules across a number of years and open to successful applicants, regardless of their civilian commitments, not ust students. This training is often undertaken by participants who go on to use the skills and principles in their civilian careers to great success while developing a parallel part time military career. I definitely see the value in the non-commissioning approach offered by UNG, and the high quality of instructors, the facilities and the opportunities to design your own future would be hard to pass up. US National uar - re- e loyment certification e ercise With support from CRESD, I was also provided the opportunity to undertake a secondment with a US National Guard unit on their pre-deployment certification exercise at Fort Stewart military training area in Georgia. Working within the headquarters of 1 Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th Brigade as part of a 31 Division exercise exposed me to equipment, tactics and techniques, I had not previously experienced.
U.S Army Aviation Blackhawk helicopter landing to conduct a simulated casualty evacuation during the training exercise
Ably led by Battalion Commander Colonel Andrew Heymann, the 121st (Warrior Battalion) was undergoing certification as part of their force generation cycle. Employing a model similar to the one developed under Plan Beersheeba, the U.S National Guard elements provide a Combined Arms capability with their Active Duty counterparts. Rather than the Beersheeba model where our Reserve Brigade provides a BattleGroup to support a Regular Combat Brigade, the U.S Active Duty Division provides an Active Duty Battalion (in this case, 1 Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment) to supplement 48th Brigade (a National Guard formation). During the training cycle, the Active Duty Battalion takes the lead in supporting the training and certification process, providing range staff, OPFOR, Observer Trainers (OTs) and safety staff for all exercises and activity serials. This allows the Guard units to focus on force consolidation and skills enhancement. I was invited to observe all aspects of the Battalion’s preparation including supporting Battalion and Brigade staff officers in planning and exercise control components, observing the leviathan that is U.S Army logistics planning and execution and accompanying each of the Battalion’s subordinate callsigns during field training. After observing Delta trained Non-Commissioned Officers training the Battalion’s reconnaissance elements on a night Close Target Reconnaissance, I was impressed by the standard achieved by part time soldiers with little or no operational experience. Their mental resilience was challenged by the physical conditions and I was inspired by the motivation demonstrated by individual soldiers as they were driven by a desire to not let their team down by failing in their assigned task. An aspirational goal for soldiers, NCOs and Officers was the Ranger qualification proudly worn by the OTs and leadership team, it is a badge of honour and adds immediate credibility to the bearer at all levels as I observed throughout the exercise. The 101st Battalion were still completing their transition to a Light Infantry role after some recent formation ad ustments and lessons were being re-learnt with regards to the logistics chain, battle rhythm and tactical signature. The Special Weapons Company retained their organic transport under the new model with HMMVs supporting TOW systems and HMG capabilities to provide static and mobile security for the formation. With the focus for the exercise being at sub-unit level, most observed training with this Company involved weapons application and employment at the tactical level. With a lot of ARES RAInf training in recent years limited by resourcing in this area, it was informative
114 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST to see the value of practical training for this capability and was a timely reminded how swiftly skills degradation can occur without regular exposure to specialist weapon systems. The inclusion of air mobile operation serials for the infantry, medical and reconnaissance elements of the formation contributed significantly to my understanding of how under utilised this capability is for ARES RAAC. The recent trials in support of Australian Army Aviation with a view to improving ARES RAAC service delivery to the wider Army are a positive start, but require continued development and support to refine procedures to the standard I observed during this exercise. The confidence of the soldiers after co-ordinating extraction of a simulated casualty from complex terrain was reassuring to all participants and promoted confidence of the headquarters in effectiveness of their CASEVAC planning for real-time incidents. The value of combined arms training was reinforced regularly for the dismounted infantry companies as their serials were rotated every 48 hours to present new geography and amended ob ectives to test METLS. The unior leaders readily embraced each emergent challenge with fervor and soldiers maintained high levels of performance and morale despite increasing heat and humidity and high repetitions of the highly physical serials. The urban assault facilities on offer at Fort Stewart presented unique challenges in an authentic simulated environment. Viewing towers and video evidence crews allowed observers to capture all aspects of activities. Impressively, after each serial, cascading debriefs were efficiently conducted followed at key intervals by hosted debriefs by a contracted service provider who delivered After Action Reviews (in air-conditioned briefing tents) supported by OT commentary and replay of video footage and GPS data on force disposition and action. Speaking with the soldiers and unior officers after these sessions, it was evident timely and directed feedback was of incredible value to the understanding and development of the trainees. What interested me most about career progression for Guard members were the options for soldiers and officers in Infantry (Employment Category 11) and Cavalry (Category 19). The Cavalry Scouts (dismounted recon element) organic to Guard Cavalry Units are actually Infantry Recon Scouts (11D), who are assigned to the supported unit and deployed in support of, or independent to, Cavalry Vehicle crews (19D). This division of role scope allows training and professional development focus to be refined for each skill set and not diluted by training time or resourcing as historically experienced with ARES RAAC units but is reliant on the ability of the units to train together to improve effectiveness. In a similar vein, NCOs and Officers in Infantry units are offered the opportunity to undertake conversion courses (3-4 weeks) of professional development in Cavalry disciplines allowing them to seek roles in either 11 or 19 employment categories (and vice versa). In addition, specialist courses such as Ranger School, Airborne and Pathfinder qualifications, which have complimentary capability outputs for both Infantry and Cavalry applications, are recognised by both career streams. Lessons Learnt C2 The transition to the Light Infantry role presented understandable challenges, met with professionalism and considered efficiency by the Battalion Headquarters. Sound planning and decision making principles and trained and effective Principal Staff Officers were critical to success in meeting these challenges. Logistics Despite there being more and bigger versions of everything, the basic principles of planning and scalability underpinned the logistic movements all the way to Divisional level re-supply. Institutional Memory As I experienced with my recent involvement in the ARES Reinforcing Battlegroup supporting 1 Combat Brigade under Plan Beersheeba, changes in application and composition of forces creates gaps in Institutional Memory, that if not addressed can lead to a degradation in capability. Corps Career Transition The ability to cross train for employability in two corps encourages teamwork in a combined arms environment, creates opportunity for career progression and offers commanders tactical flexibility and adaptability. The secondment with the US National Guard broadened my understanding of coalition operational environments and the management of large-scale troop training and operations. Conclusion Through the Prince of Wales Award Scheme I was presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity to undertake a rewarding military secondment that changed my views on future directions for ARES RAAC. It was an inspirational tour of a world-class centre for leadership training and the best law enforcement training I have every undertaken. Our partners in the US have learnt many valuable lessons that the AFP and ADF can benefit from. I received a year’s worth of experiences in ust a month and I highly recommend the POWA scheme.
About the Author Ma or Munro is currently posted to Australian Command and Staff College (Reserve) and also undertakes Pro ect Work for 4th 19th Prince of Wales’ Lighthorse Regiment and ADFLO duties for Joint Operational Support Section ACT SNSW.
12 5 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
EEDIN THE AR - INTERVIE ITH AN AR RESERVE COOK Private Daniel Kamateros - 4th Combat Services Su ort attalion an Ca tain Lucy Saaroni Public Affairs Officer - 4th ri a e Hea uarters
Intro uction Private Kamateros is an Army cook currently serving in the 4th Combat Service Support Battalion. ou can find him cooking up fancy three-course meals for military functions or foraging to muster fresh rations in a field kitchen. When he’s not busy with knives and spatulas, Private Kamateros may be playing ‘enemy’ against infantry soldiers in training exercises. All part and parcel of the role of a private cook in the Army Reserve. Private Kamateros shares his experience as a Cook in the Army Reserve. Can you escribe your role in the Army Reserve I am a private soldier - a cook in the Army Reserve. My role is to work with a team of other cooks to provide tasty, nutritious food to other soldiers. That is the explicit purpose of the Australian Army Catering Corps (AACC) and is reflected in our motto, We Sustain . Importantly is the implicit understanding that a cook’s ob is to look after morale. If people are eating well and en oying what they eat then it is easier for them to do their ob. In the field, I work with other cooks to produce bulk meals that can be delivered to everyone who needs them. A large field kitchen can produce three meals a day for over a thousand people There are many roles that need to be filled in a kitchen, ranging from hands on cooking, vegetable preparation to dish washing. On a typical Tuesday night we check our equipment, have lessons and cook different types of meals that are later served in the Soldier’s and Officer’s Mess. Every few months we are called on to cater for special functions. For example, for a formal dining-in-night, we might feed around 100 people for a sit-down three-course dinner. It’s an opportunity to test our skills and create food that not only tastes great but looks beautiful too. hat o you o in civilian life I am a public speaking coach and freelance designer.
Sol iers from Rifle Com any utter orth 116 receivin instruction in the alaysian un le
Tell us about your recent e loyment In 2017 I returned from Rifle Company Butterworth (RCB) 116 in Malaysia. An RCB rotation is an opportunity for soldiers to train in ungle war fighting and gain qualifications in weapon systems that would otherwise be difficult to acquire. I was part of a team that went along to support the composite group of infantry and engineers.
01013 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
I’d gone on a short deployment to Papua New Guinea the year before and it was the best thing I had done in Defence up to that point. Cooking for soldiers who were building fences and water tanks in PNG was hugely rewarding. The possibility of providing support overseas again was too good to pass up, so when my Sergeant offered me a spot to deploy, I didn’t hesitate. hat as aily life li e on e loyment RCB is a non-operational deployment. We went to Malaysia to train, not to fight. As a cook, my days started well before dawn. Along with two fellow catering members, I would prepare and serve breakfast to the team, then get straight in to preparing lunch. During our time in the barracks outside Penang we had the luxury of a well-equipped and air-conditioned kitchen and we also worked with a team of local Malay cooks who were indispensable. Together with support members from transport and the -store, we also played being the enemy party in the ungle for a couple of weeks. Living in a mosquito dome surrounded by strange insects and vegetation and living off ration packs was a new experience. Despite the discomfort it was fun to stomp around the bush and provide a different kind of support. It was also a reminder that we are trained as soldiers first and our trade comes second. The final portion of my time in Malaysia was spent in the south near the border with Singapore. We were operating out of a field kitchen surrounded by ungle which was home to dozens of small monkeys. The hours were longer and reminiscent of the days we spend out in the field in Australia. Everyone on the rotation was putting in long hours at that time and it felt good to be giving the soldiers the best food I could make. hat as your s ecific role in the team on e loyment As the unior cook my ob was to prepare the dishes my caterer assigned to me. Because there were only three of us in the kitchen and we were feeding 120 people each of us had several dishes to cook per meal. A Private does a lot of the bulk cooking in the kitchen, that leaves the caterer free to deal with problems, plan menus and organise deliveries. hat i you learn on e loyment My caterer was very patient and a good teacher. I learned a lot of new trade specific skills - particularly in how to make do with what you have got on hand. It is not always possible to have all the ingredients or equipment that you would like and the meal times are generally non-negotiable. I learned how to improvise and think creatively to provide the needed outcome. I also gained a number of weapon qualifications on the trip. With the help of the Company Sergeant Ma or, we were also able to participate in the infantry training and live firing exercises when we had time away from the kitchen. as it har to be a ay from home an ho i you co e My family was incredibly supportive from the get-go and that gave me the confidence to go and give it my best. There was so much going on and so many new things to experience that it all went by quickly. Ho i you et selecte to o on e loyment One of the best pieces of advice I’ve been given in the Army is to put your hand up for things. If you volunteer for obs that aren’t glamorous and appealing and you genuinely want to help out then good things will come your way. I went out field several times, paraded regularly and showed that I was keen to learn. I believe that my commitment to the unit was the reason my application was supported by my superiors. Di you or ith other nations ho an hat ere they li e We worked with local Malay cooks in the barracks and they were great. They knew so much about Malaysian cooking, which is some of the best cuisine on Earth and they were generous in sharing their expertise. I wrote down a dozen new curry recipes that I have been able to recreate at home. Do you have any hobbies outsi e the Army I sculpt miniatures in my spare time. I create them out of polymer and epoxy putty and paint them with acrylics. I photograph my pieces and create narratives for them. I collect the stories and self publish them as books. hat s ne t for your military career I have put my hand up for a number of courses and support tasks over the next twelve months, as the 4th Brigade is currently in the ‘Reset’ year where individuals focus on honing their skills and qualifications. The next big thing I have coming up will be my first set of promotion courses in the middle of next year. It will be a challenge but I’m looking forward to taking that next step and learning to lead. In your o inion hat ma es your Unit 4 CSS uni ue My unit has such a wide variety of people. Among the cooks we have people from many different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. Outside of the Army Reserve my colleagues are professional cooks, psychologists in training, scientists, IT specialists, teachers and more. I love that we all come from different places with different stories but can work together seamlessly.
14 2 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
HELPIN KEEP THE PEACE - SERVIN ON OPERATION A URKA a or urray Ste art SO2 Ca ability - Directorate of Reserves Hea uarters orces Comman
Intro uction I am an Australian Army Reservist RAAC Ma or who along with 26 other Australian personnel deployed to Operation MAZURKA, which is Australia’s commitment to the Multi National Force and Observer (MFO) mission in the Sinai, Egypt. The MFO maintains the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel that came out of the Camp David peace accords and first deployed in 1982. The ulti National orce an Observer ( O) mission The MFO has been spectacularly successful. Egypt and Israel fought five wars in the 34 years before the MFOs deployment and none since 1982. The wars have been: 1948 (Israel formation), 1956 (Suez Crisis), 1967 (Six-Day War), 1967 -1970 (War of Attrition) and 1973 ( om Kippur War) which resulted in the occupation of the Sinai by Israel. This ended with the 1982 peace treaty and the formation of the MFO. The MFO mission is to observe, verify and report that both Israel and Egypt are keeping to the 1982 agreement which split the Sinai and a part of Israel into four zones and strictly dictated what military force was allowed in each zone. The MFO are credible and impartial arbiters of the treaty and therefore trustworthy. The MFO is in Egypt because Egypt and Israel both want the MFO to be there. The enduring peace between Egypt and Israel is a little island of peace and stability in a very volatile region. It’s not a UN mission (hence the striking orange hats and signs rather than UN blue) but it has been called UN like . There is also a UN mission observing the peace between Israel and Syria, Jordan and Lebanon the other main belligerents in the Arab Israeli Wars and there are Australian Defence Force members serving there as well.
N ATT ey layers ointin to their uniform fla s rom left the Cana ian orce Protection officer the Comman in Officer of N ATT an my boss the Colombian Lieutenant Colonel Rey me the E y tian Army Liaison Officer the American XO
01015 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
MFO is around a brigade size organization of around 1,300 military and 300 civilians, both expats and locally employed. The civilian Director General is in charge the military boss is currently an Australian Army Ma or General Simon Stuart. There are twelve troop contributing nations Australia, Colombia, UK, USA, Uruguay, New Zealand, Canada, Norway, Czechoslovakia, France, Italy and Fi i. I dealt with people from the first eight contingents almost on a daily basis. The MFO have US operated Blackhawks and the Czech Air Force fly a Caribou size aircraft called a Casa. The MFO even has its own Navy of three patrol boats run by the Italians who patrol the gulf of Aqabar. My actual ob in this multinational, multi lingual civilian and military organization was in Northern Battalion (NBATT) up in the northern Sinai, 20 km from the Mediterranean at a place called Forward Operating Base North (FOBN). For the Light Horsemen, Beersheba was 60 km away to the east in Israel and Romani 150 km away to the west. The rest of the MFO is in South Camp in Sharm El Sheik. The MFO also mans remote observation posts and camera sites throughout the Sinai.
Visit to a Remote Site ith members of the UK US an Colombian contin ents lus a visitin civilian contractor Note the Oran e hats - not the lue hats of the UN observers Ho i I et the ostin The question I’m sure most Reservists ask is how did I get the posting First, I cleared it with my family. As Reservist we have to actively chase deployments so getting family approval and aligning it with my civilian work for what is a personal adventure can be difficult. With that arranged I simply responded to the signals that came out detailing operational vacancies. As I have done previously over the years, I nominated for all that suited my rank, corps and experience. Maintaining AIRN, security clearances, qualifications and relevance such as recent experience on Ex Hamel Talisman Sabre helps your cause as you are competing against the ARA for these operational positions. I was the only Reservist in my contingent, but this was not a position earmarked for Reservists. This particular position called for a combat corps Ma or with experience in operations plans at the battalion level. As a Reservist I have been a Principal Staff Officer on the ARA H 7 Brigade during their Readying phase on their CPX and Exercise Hamel Talisman Sabre. I had also been an Observer Trainer (OT) on another Exercise Hamel Talisman Sabre, experience which I am sure helped a lot.
16 2 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
I received a call in November 2016 that I had been successful for Opearation MAZURKA, (ironically not one of the operations I applied for), and did the two weeks lead-up training in March at Randwick Barracks with the rest of my Rotation of twelve persons. I deployed in May for 6 months. I kept my workplace informed and facilitated their contact with the Office of Defence Reserve Support who provided my employer and I with excellent support throughout the deployment. y Role My actual role for the MFO was S5 Plans Officer for NBATT. NBATT is mainly a Colombian battalion, with three companies and BH from there and a company from the US. South Battalion (SBATT) is predominately a battalion from the US National Guard with a Fi ian company. I was also Operations Officer for the Australian Contingent. This primarily consisted of performing national command duties for the six Australian Regular Army Sergeants in NBATT. On a daily basis I did operational planning and pro ects for the Battalion. This included leading the NBATT staff team through the Australian Army Staff Military Appreciation Process (SMAP). The SMAP is what I’ve been trained in the steps are familiar to the other contingents and it produced the results. Despite his extensive combat experience which includes being wounded in action three times LTCOL Rey sought out and valued my advice as a key part of the NBATT leadership team. This was very gratifying as a Reservist. Life in or ar O eratin ase North Life in Forward Operating Base North was good but repetitive like all operations. It’s like living at a ma or base such as Holsworthy but where most people speak Spanish. It’s the same faces at PT, work, breakfast, lunch and dinner and any social events which are usually centred on welcomes and farewells as members of various contingents come and go. Work goes on in the 24 7 life of operations. There is a reduced activity period over the weekend, but mostly that ust meant no PT and go into the office later. There wasn’t a lot to do out of work hours anyway. We got to know each other well and I picked up a few words of Spanish. Most MFO work is conducted in English which is translated into Spanish and other languages where necessary. Luckily LTCOL Rey was fluent in both languages. Each conference was about half English, half Spanish. LTCOL Rey spoke to his Colombian officers and staff in Spanish and did his own translation of the important bits for us although there are English Spanish translators on the Colombian establishment. Some of the other Colombians spoke English and many US Army soldiers can speak Spanish so it all worked out pretty well. Most of the US soldiers are members of the US National Guard like our Army Reserve. The US deploy their Reserve National Guard much more AJ Ste art in front of the illabon This than we do. A Guard unit generally gets a formed unit deployment every is the home to the Australian Contin ent in the north e have ac uire a et o five years or so. Most of the US National Guard soldiers were deployed for calle Roo ho is oo for morale There nine months with no leave, and the US Regular Army or Active Duty as they are military or in o s in the O so call it were there for a year. The Brits, Kiwis and Aussies have 6 months the vet services are available to ee Roo with leave lucky us. healthy A highlight was to get out of the office and FOBN and onto a Blackhawk helicopter in order to visit the remote sites. NBATT has three remote sites in the desert. They are small outposts with a section of about 10 to 20 Colombian soldiers doing the mission out on the ground. I found this operation a combination of time dragging and rushing. Time can drag with repetitive days becoming tedious and the length of time away comes into sharp focus when you miss family events. Balanced against that it seems like you have ust arrived, settled in and learnt a few names when planning for mid tour leave has commenced. The Australian contingent offset the Relief In Place (RIP) for the MFO to try and maintain continuity, so at the three month mark you become the old hand as the new Australian crew arrives for their 6 months. Add in a highlight like ANZAC day or the Beersheba commemorations and other significant events and then you start getting emails from your replacement and your own RIP planning commences and time flies by. Conclusion Deploying to the MFO was a unique, professionally and personally rewarding experience and a real life highlight balanced against some sacrifices particularly by my family and loved ones. Rebuilding those relationships, especially with my children has been the work of months. That said, I strongly encourage all Reservists to remain AIRN compliant, ready and most importantly current and apply for these operations. It is a real expression of Reserve capability and contribution to Australia’s national interests.
173 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
CO E ORATIN THE ATTLE O EERSHE A - 100 EARS ON Ima es by Cor oral Nunu Cam os Army Hea uarters
A century on from one of Australia’s most successful military campaigns of the First World War, members of the 4th 19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment, the 12th 16th Hunter River Lancers Regiment and the ueen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles Regiment from the Australian Army and New Zealand Defence Forces travelled to Israel as custodians of the Light Horse Legacy. Here is a selection of images from the commemoration event taken by CPL Nunu Campos. For more on the 100th Anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Beersheba, please see The Army Newspaper, 2nd Nov 2017 and 17th Nov 2017 http: armynews.realviewdigital.com iid 156404 folio 44
The ui ons from the 4th 19th Prince of ales s Li ht Horse Re iment 12th 16th Hunter River Cor oral Rob Con ay of 4 19 P LHR Lancers Re iment an the ueen Ale an ra s al s ith Lily follo in a ractice ri e in ounte Rifles Re iment from the Australian re aration for the commemoration of the Army an Ne ealan Defence orces at the centenary of the attle of eersheba attle of eersheba commemorative service in Israel
Comman in Officer of 4 19 P LHR Colonel John olnar (left) an Troo er Harrison Dietrich visit the eersheba ar Cemetery ahea of the commemoration of the centenary of the attle of eersheba in Israel
18 010 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
Comman in Officer 4 19 P LHR Lieutenant Colonel John olnar visits the Par of the Australian Sol ier in e er-Sheva ahea of the commemoration of the cen- tenary of the attle of eersheba in Israel
Australian Army ui ons from the 4th 19th Prince of ales s Li ht Horse Re iment an the 12th 16th Hunter River Lancers Re iment at the attle of eer- sheba commemorative service in Israel
The ui on as carrie by a unior officer no n as a Cornet until 1822 hen Kin eor e IV comman e that cavalry re i- ments stan ar s be carrie by troo Ser eant- a ors that is to say S ua ron Ser eant a ors in mo ern arlance
19 2 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE LI HT HORSE TODA AND OUR ORE EARS Reflections by a or Duncan unro at the eersheba Commemorartion Event Shrine of Remembrance elbourne 31 October 2017
Intro uction I have been asked to address you today as we honour the sacrifice of the Light Horse of yesterday, and to provide an insight into the Light Horse of today. As an Army Reserve officer, I have had the honour of serving with both full-time and part-time soldiers and officers on operations and in training. I have studied our military’s past battles, examined their tactics, disected the complexity of campaigns and been awed by accounts of individual courage, innovation and sacrifice by the service men and women who served before me. The one element always present was an honour. attle Honours Battle Honours or colours are awarded to a regiment or battalion and embroidered on its Guidon or Standard. Guidons and Standards are banners with strong symbolism which historically served as a rallying point on the battlefield. They were traditionally defended passionately on the battlefield and are now held in deep reverence for the sacrifice they represent. The charge and subsequent capture of Beersheba by the 4th and 12th Light Horse Regiments in WW1 resulted in that iconic battle honour, now emblazoned on the 4th 19th Guidon. The 4th 19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment, of which I am proud to be a serving member, is an amalgamation of several Light Horse regiments, who’s Guidons are a representation of more than 100 years of military service. The current Guidon, presented to the Regiment last year by Australia’s Governor-General, replaced six previous Guidons bearing battle honours inherited from those founding regiments. The previous Guidon will be laid up in the consecrated ground here at the Shrine later this year after being escorted to the location by the Regiment’s Light Horsemen and women of today. Paying deep respect for the past, the Light Horse of today will be embracing the new Guidon as a symbol to carry forward into the future.
20 010 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
The Li ht Horse of ester ay an To ay The Light Horse today provide protected mobility for troops and deliver a reconnaissance capability deployable in a mounted or dismounted role. Their cavalry scouts are the eyes and ears for the commander, providing up-to-date information to shape the battlespace. The Light Horse who served at Beersheba, achieved success at great cost in the face of extreme adversity. These soldiers and officers forged the legend of the Light Horse and created an aspirational standard for all that would follow in their stead. They demonstrated innovation, resilience, courage, determination and honour. Building on this foundation, the Light Horse today are more suitably equipped, receive intensive training and have a wider understanding of the impact of their actions both overseas and on security here in Australia. et their actions and motivations are underpinned by those same values of innovation, resilience, courage and honour. The Light Horse then rode mountain-bred Australian horses forged in the harsh conditions of the Australian bush, the Light Horse now rides in armoured vehicles designed to withstand environmental extremes in Australia and across the globe. The Light Horse then was deployed across all three fronts of the Great War and developed a niche capability for commanders in each theatre. The Light Horse now adapt to the diverse conditions and complex tasks on deployment in all current theatres, again providing a special niche capability. The Light Horse then often served dismounted, separated from their horses for a time. The Light Horse now specialises in being able to conduct both mounted and dismounted operations. The Light Horse then went to countries they had never heard of, to fight for a country (Australia) which had only ust been born. The Light Horse now goes wherever that same country asks them to go and fights to keep it free. The Light Horse then faced an uncertain future they left behind friends and family. The Light Horse now still leaves behind friends and family, in order to secure a future for them. Commemoration The Light Horse today honours the tragedy and heroism of the past, respects the dedication and sacrifice of our present conflicts and strives towards a secure future. As you oin today’s commemoration of one of our Regiment’s greatest victories, I encourage you all to remember the cost of the peace we en oy and the vigilance we must maintain to preserve it. .
Major Duncan Munro astride his mechanical horse
212 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE DEFENCE LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (2017 MEASURES No. 1) ACT 2017
CHAN ES TO THE DEFENCE RESERVE SERVICE (PROTECTION) ACT 2001
Intro uction Defence Le islation Amen ment (2017 easures No 1) Act 2017 The e ence Legislation Amendment 1 Measures o 1 Act 2017 (the Amending Act) came into effect on 27 Nov 2017. The Amending Act amended a number of Defence-related Acts, including the e ence eserve ervice Protec- tion Act 2001. The amendments to the e ence eserve ervice Protection Act 2001 will only apply in relation to Defence service that starts on or after 27 Nov 17. For periods of Defence service that commenced before 27 Nov 17, the protections in the previous version of the Act will still apply. Following the passing of the amendments, the Office of Reserve Service Protection has produced a detailed fact sheet which can be found at: htt s efencereservessu ort ov au me ia 1194 rs-ors -ch - rotection-act-factsheet f Nee more information or ui ance For further information or assistance, you may contact ORSP by: visiting the website at defencereservessupport.gov.au emailing your questions to [email protected] or phoning 1800 671 998
Part 1 of this article is a re rint of the article by Lin a Jelfs an AJ EN re ar e reviously ublishe in A ril 2012 in antici ation of the chan es Part 2 rovi es a brief summary of the ey chan es to the Protection Act that are no la PART 1 PROPOSED CHAN ES TO DEFENCE RESERVE SERVICE (PROTECTION) ACT 2001 Lin a Jelfs - Director Office of Reserve Service Protection an a or eneral re ar e A R D (Ret ) Intro uction In 2001, the Australian Government introduced legislation that provided employment and education protection to members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Reserves. The key aim of the e ence eserve ervice Protection Act 1 (the Act) is to facilitate the availability of Reservists for defence service, thereby enhancing defence capability derived from Reserves. The Act makes it an offence for an employer to discriminate against, disadvantage or dismiss an employee or prospective employee for rendering Defence Reserve Service. The protections apply to contractors and partners and in certain circumstances to students enrolled in a course of instruction at an Australian education institution. The Act makes it mandatory for employers to release employees when required to render Defence Reserve Service. Releasing an employee is also mandatory for the courses and training necessary to undertake service in the Reserve and to attend parades with the Reserve. Role of the Office of Reserve Service Protection he e ence eserve ervice Protection egulations 1 (the Regulations) established the Office of Reserve Service Protection (ORSP). The Regulations also provided for the appointment of the Director and Deputy Directors of ORSP who administer the Act. ORSP investigates complaints from Reservists that might involve contraventions of the Act. ORSP also offers advice to Reservists and employers, assists with leave policies, and provides dispute resolution and mediation. All office holders of ORSP are trained in government investigations and are called on to investigate alleged breaches of the Act. As required, ORSP may also seek the assistance of Federal, State or Territory Police Services to conduct formal investigations of alleged breaches of the Act. Every complaint is treated on a case by case basis. However, ORSP will not investigate complaints that are deemed to be vexatious, frivolous or made in bad faith. While the Regulations provide the authority to investigate alleged breaches, ORSP will attempt to resolve complaints at the lowest possible level. When issues do arise, ORSP encourages the employee Reservist to attempt resolution at the workplace level. An employer who considers that releasing an employee will cause significant hardship is encouraged to contact the employee’s unit Commanding Officer to discuss other possible service options for example an alternative date on which a course may be undertaken. Employers may always contact ORSP for further guidance
010 22 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST and information. Revie of the Act From 2006 to 2008, the Act was sub ected to review by a national panel headed by MAJGEN Greg Garde. The review undertook extensive public consultation including with all States and Territories and with Universities Australia. A number of State and Territory Departments made submissions to the Review as did peak employer industry organisations such as the Australian Industry Group (AIG), Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF). Importantly, the review team intentionally included Mr Leigh Purnell, then Executive Director-International of the Australian Industry Group. The employer interest was to the forefront and was actively represented throughout the entire review process. Following election of the Labor Government in 2007, the review team was reappointed by the then Parliamentary Secretary, Dr Mike Kelly MP. The review thus had bipartisan support from both sides of politics. hat are the ey Recommen ations of the Revie Simplification of the Act by removal of the current distinction between ‘protected’ and ‘unprotected’ continuous full time service so that all defence service by Reservists is protected this has been a ma or issue not only for Reservists, but also for employers. To date it has been at the discretion of the Service Chief or delegate to decide whether continuous full time defence service should be protected, and conduct consultation with employers. The current arrangement of having a distinction between protected and unprotected service is further complicated by the fact that it is a condition of the Employer Support Payment Scheme that Defence Reserve Service covered by that scheme be treated as protected and by agreed leave policies or memoranda of understanding with many employers which also result in defence service by Reservists being treated as protected for all purposes. Extension of the current scope of education protection to apply to all types of Reserve service this will include - reimbursement or deferment of fees and charges paid by a Reservist to an education institution lost or thrown away as a result of absence on Reserve service. Also education institutions are not to record as a failure in the Reservist s student record the non-completion of a course or sub ect in the event that a course of study or sub ect is not completed by the Reservist as a result of absence on defence service. Continuing recognition of examinations, assessments and practical work, previously completed is also sought when a course of study or sub ect is resumed by a Reservist following absence on defence service. Extension of financial liability protection to apply to Reservists serving on continuous full time service or continuous defence service of an operational nature rather than ust call out service as at present. Introduction of a new provision directed at ob ectionable behaviour or conduct adverse to a Reservist such as bullying, abuse or harassment relating to the Reservist’s status or service as a Reservist. Introduction of a number of consequential amendments to provide clarification or simplify the language or operation of the Act. Many employers and Reservists have complained that the Act is written in a way that only a lawyer would understand. By simplification of the language, the Act becomes more ‘user friendly’ and assists employers to do the right thing. Introduction of civil penalties, this change will add strength to the existing criminal penalty system and allow for government departments and agencies to be held accountable for breaches of the Act. hat is the Ob ective of the Amen ments The ob ective of the amendments as previously stated is to facilitate the availability of Reservists for defence service, thereby enhancing the defence capability derived from Reserves. The protections that apply to Reservists are strengthened, particularly education protection and to a lesser extent financial protection and the current provisions relating to protected and unprotected service are simplified. These changes will create and promote greater efficiency, and streamline administration. The amendments will further enhance defence capability from Reserves. So hy chan e somethin that has a roven trac recor of or in The Act regulates the legal relationships between Reservists, employers, educational and financial institutions, and we must ensure that they are constantly updated to make sure that we are doing everything we can to support our reservists, and strengthen defence capability. The amendments will streamline processes, and ensure that good communication between employers and Reservists are encouraged. There will be a more transparent set of regulations that are easy enough for everyone to understand. When introduced, the Act was supported by industry groups, education institutions, the ACTU, State and Territory Departments. During the consultation process for the review of the Act, these same organisations were equally supportive of the proposed changes. There is every reason to believe that the proposed amendments will be equally well regarded and received by everyone. It is expected that the proposed amendments to the Act will be introduced
232 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST in the next session of the Parliament. Again it is hoped that there will be bipartisan support for the changes. Ho can the Reservist hel To a large extent releasing employees to undertake Reserve service depends greatly on the goodwill of the employer. Reservists should not ust rely on the legislation as a blunt instrument. As a Reservist, you are obliged to make the release from work as easy as possible for your employer. This is best done by: considering the impact that your absence will have on your employer’s business giving your employer as much notice as possible when required to render Reserve Service providing a 6-12 month plan of your intended Reserve service including any training commitments, noting that exact dates can be provided to your employer when they become known giving written notification to your employers before and after your Reserve service, and whenever your employer asks for it fostering a good working relationship between Defence, your employer and yourself. PART 2 SU AR O THE A END ENTS TO THE DEFENCE RESERVE SERVICE (PROTECTION) ACT 2001 The changes to the Act relate to the following areas: Protection against discrimination Employment protection Partnership protection Education protection Financial liability and bankruptcy protection Enforcement of the Act and remedies that are available Key changes are: a new anti-harassment provision extended protections against discrimination in partnerships a new civil penalty regime (complementing existing criminal offences in the Act) expanding the scope of the employment, partnership and education protections to apply to all Defence service by Reserve members enhancing the education protections by creating an obligation on education providers to make reasonable ad- ustments to accommodate Reserve members’ Defence service expanding the scope of the financial liability and bankruptcy protections to apply to operational service by Reserve members a new anti-victimisation provision Protection a ainst iscrimination Part 4 of the Act provides protection against discrimination because of Defence service. This Part makes it unlawful for an employer to hinder or prevent an employee from volunteering to render or rendering Defence service as a Reserve member. The amendments relate to the following areas: introduction of a new provision relating to harassment changes relating to discrimination in partnerships introduction of civil penalty provisions Also the amendments to Part 4 insert a new Division dealing with harassment. This Division makes it unlawful to har- ass a worker, partner or co-worker on the grounds that the person is rendering, has rendered or might, in the future, render Defence service as a Reserve member. Em loyment rotection Part 5 of the Act deals with employment protection. The amendments relate to the following areas: the application of employment protection to Defence service by Reserve members, the definition of absent on Defence service a member’s entitlement to be absent during Defence service resuming work after Defence service Previously, service by Reserve members on Reserve Service Days was protected service under Part 5 of the Act. How- ever, voluntary continuous full-time service (CFTS) by Reserve members was either protected or unprotected service under Part 5. The application of the employment protections in Part 5 of the Act has been extended. All Defence service by Reserve members, including all periods of voluntary CFTS, is now protected service to which the protec- tions in Part 5 apply. A revised definition of absent on defence service has been included. Under this definition, a member is absent on
24 3 THETHE AUSTRALIAN RESERVISTRESERVIST defence service during three periods: when travelling to the place they are required to report for Defence service while rendering Defence service during the period immediately following the member’s Defence service The period immediately following the member’s Defence service ends when they resume work or, if they do not apply to resume work, within 30 days of ceasing to render Defence service. The changes to Part 5 of the Act remove reference to the suspension of an employment contract while a member is on Defence service. This is replaced with an entitlement for the member to be absent from their employment while on Defence service. This means that an employee who is absent on Defence service is not in breach of their employment contract, even if their employer has not given them leave to be absent from the workplace. Partnershi Protection Part 6 of the Act deals with partnership protection. The amendments relate to the following area: the application of partnership protection to Defence service by Reserve members E ucation Protection Part 7 of the Act deals with education protection. The amendments enhance the protections available to Reserve members who render Defence service while enrolled at an Australian educational institution. The changes relate to the following areas: the application of education protection to Defence service by Reserve members obligation on educational institutions to make reasonable ad ustments Previously, the education protections in Part 7 only applied to protected voluntary CFTS by Reserve members, where the Chief of the Defence Force (or delegate) had requested the Reserve member to undertake the service on a protected basis. Under the amendments the application of the education protections in Part 7 of the Act has been extended. All Defence service by Reserve members, including service on Reserve Service Days and all periods of vol- untary CFTS, is now protected service to which the protections in Part 7 apply. The changes to Part 7 insert a new requirement for educational institutions to make reasonable ad ustments that are required because a Reserve member, who is enrolled in a course at the institution, is rendering Defence service. Examples of ad ustments that would typically be considered reasonable include: not failing a member recognising assessment or practical work undertaken by the member before starting to render Defence service allowing the member to defer undertaking or completing assessment or practical work refunding or crediting fees paid by or for the member An ad ustment is a reasonable ad ustment unless making the ad ustment would impose an un ustifiable hardship on the educational institution. To determine whether something would amount to an unreasonable hardship, all the relevant circumstances of the case must be taken into account. The burden of establishing unreasonable hardship is placed on the educational institution inancial liability rotection an ban ru tcy rotection Parts 8 and 9 of the Act deals with financial liability protection and bankruptcy protection. The amendments relate to the following area: application of financial liability protection and bankruptcy protection to Defence service by Reserve members Enforcement an reme ies Part 11 of the Act deals with enforcement and remedies. The amendments relate to the following areas: introduction of a new victimisation offence changes to limitation period enforcement of new civil penalty provisions complaints and mediation orders for compensation Chan es to other matters Part 12 of the Act deals with other matters. The amendments relate to the following areas: ability to use other protections penalties in regulations Importantly the amendment confirms that the Act does not limit protections available to a member or former mem- ber under any other law. It should be noted that this is to ensure that nothing in the Defence Reserve Service (Protec- tion) Act 2001 would prevent a person taking advantage of other protections, such as those available under the Fair Work Act 2009 or under anti-discrimination legislation.
254 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
ENTAL HEALTH - IT IS NOT JUST A PRO LE OR THE ILITAR Leonie Christo herson A A D SJ The National Council of omen of Australia
T o o o o o o o o o o o . Sir Edward Dunlop AC Kt CMG OBE KCSJ Intro uction It is a tragic fact of which many Australians are unaware, that there were 325 Defence certified suicides in the period 2001 to 2015, 78 suicides by veterans in 2016, and 84 in 2017. There are 487 defence families out there who are still asking themselves: ‘ id say the rong thing to push him or her over the edge Could have done more to help Veterans’ health is the key priority of Minister Dan Tehan. (The Age’ 8 May 2017.) The Government allocated 350m for Defence for mental health and 220m exclusively for suicide prevention in the 2017 budget. All Defence personnel now undertake mandatory annual suicide awareness training in order to help personnel recognize the tell-tale behaviours. Workmates, colleagues and families, (i.e. those who spend the most time in daylight hours with the returning veterans) are in the best position to recognize whether colleagues are not coping or are exhibiting worrying behaviour. However, trauma and stress which may lead to suicide is not exclusive to Defence. The Beyond Blue organisation estimate that three million Australians are living with anxiety or depression. Beyond Blue and several other organisations provide excellent information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health. I entifyin roblems Problems with mental health can first manifest themselves at home and in the case of returning Reservists, in the civilian work-place, in behaviour such as: Always looking for an escape route if in a closed environment. Dislike of being confined in a crowded carriage while commuting they may prefer to get out and walk to work. After five months in South Sudan on minimal fresh food, a peace-keeper had to get out of a Coles supermarket unable to ad ust to the vast variety, colour, and sheer abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables on display in contrast to what was available in Sudan because of famine. It was a severe culture shock in comparison. Irritability and intolerance of other people’s inefficiency compared with the discipline of military life. Finding day-to-day activities banal after experiencing life-changing incidents on deployment. ‘All people back here can talk about are the footy scores and if they win Tattslotto.’ By addressing such erratic behaviour early, we can aid recovery and ad ustment for anyone before coping methods such as absenteeism and alcoholism trip in. These can, in the worst case scenario, lead to ob loss and worse. Fellow workers and families need to recognise these warning signs and deal with them sympathetically. Importantly, time is needed to ad ust from being in a combat zone one day and a suburban home in Australia shortly after. ettin Hel A number of organisations provide excellent advice on Beating the Blues, Stress Management, Doing Anger Differently, Managing your Drinking and Suicide Prevention for veterans, families and mates. SOLDIER ON, AT EASE, and the RIGHT MIX, are all addressing the problem. There are a number of resources that provide assistance including: The De artment of Veterans Affairs (DVA) va ov au health an ellbein The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides support to current and former serving members and their families and carers through a range of services and payments (including ongoing or one off payments). These services are designed to assist personnel to manage their health and lifestyle and support those they care for. ‘At Ease’ is DVA’s portal to online mental health information. It provides self-help tools and information to support mental health and wellbeing and is a gateway to websites and free mobile apps about stress, PTSD, alcohol management, resilience and suicide awareness and prevention. The portal also links to a wide range of mental health resources for health professionals and GPs for effective assessment and evidence-based treatment of veterans. Veterans an Veterans amilies Counsellin Service vvcs ov au Call 1800 011 046 The Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) provides free and confidential, nation-wide counselling and
010 26 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST RESERVIST
support for war and service-related mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance and anger. Support is also available for relationship and family matters that can arise due to the unique nature of military service. Defence amily Hel line 1800 624 608 Lifeline 131114 Suici e Call ac Service 1300 659 467 eyon lue htt s beyon blue or au 24 Hours - Call 1300 22 46 36 The Traumatic Stress Clinic traumaticstressclinic com au The Traumatic Stress Clinic provides cutting- edge, evidence-based treatments and undertakes world-class research for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and prolonged grief. The Clinic is an affiliation between a number of researchers, organisations and clinical psychologists, and is based at the Westmead Institute for Medical Research and the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. The Ri ht i theri htmi ov au This site provides help with tips, tools and strategies that can reduce the impact of drinking on your lifestyle.
S rea in the or The ADF does not need to be defensive about mental health as ‘trauma’ is rife in the civilian world. We can teach others all that we have learned. We can help those who have suffered random violence, natural disasters, family tragedies and abuse all of whom suffer PTSD. The excellent aids that have been developed by the many support organisations in Defence should be distributed in the general community as much as possible. We could turn any perceived stigma of mental health in the military around by acknowledging that ‘trauma’ is not exclusively a defence product. Civilians suffer trauma. They need help too. Defence should be proud of, and share, such things as the PTSD Coach app available on the DVA Website. It is a self-diagnostic and healing tool which one can use in privacy. It is particularly helpful to those of us who do not want to spill their soul to a stranger in a counselling session. ou can view the app and you can say ‘ h look, ve missed out on el Blame and could have done more to help in the situation Better go back and check that out To spread the word, we could start with the supportive employers of Reservists and ask them to run this information in their staff magazines and newsletters. It is applicable and available to all. It should also be displayed in every corporate tea room and factory floor in the country.
Conclusion Let’s acknowledge there can be problems ad usting to life on returning from deployment and that ‘trauma’ does not ust come in khaki. Let’s spread the help available for veterans and their families to all in the wider community. Defence can be proud of what it has achieved. If this proposed initiative only saves one life, it will be worthwhile. About the Author Leonie Christopherson has had a career in advertising and publicity. She became Editor of the Australian uarterly Bulletin and in 2000 Editor of the International Council of Women‘s uarterly Bulletin. She became a member of National Council of Women of Australia (NCWA) in 1998 as Board Member in charge of Communications for Australia. Her degree, which she gained as an adult student, is in Language and Literature. She has served as a member of the Board of the Australian Women’s Coalition, the Victorian Firearms Appeals Committee, the Defence Reserves Support Council at both State and National levels, the Veterinary Practitioners Board Hearing Panels and the Australian Communications Industry Forum Consumer Council. She was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2006, and a Dame of Grace in the Order of St John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller in 2013.
272 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE TULU AL PRO RA - PRODUCIN OPTI ISED CAVALR SCOUTS Ca tain Lucy Saaroni 4th ri a e In i enous Liaison Officer
Intro uction The Australian Army is drawing on the knowledge and experience of Aboriginal people to develop the professional skills of its soldiers in a new initiative called The Tulugal Program. Designed by Victoria’s 4th 19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment, the programme delivers an enhanced Cavalry Scout capability for the Australian Army by combining the conventional fighting techniques of the Royal Australian Armoured Corps with Aboriginal field-craft. The Tulu al Pro ram The program takes its name from the chilling and formidable spirit ‘Tulugal’ of the Dreamtime stories from the uin tribe in South East Australia. Tulugal materialises like a ghost or shadow, emerging from the natural landscape to haunt and wreak havoc on those who have done wrong. ‘The Tulugal Program draws on the experience of Aboriginal people over thousands of years, to generate a tactical advantage for Australian Army soldiers conducting warlike operations,’ explains the program’s creator, Lieutenant- Colonel John Molnar. ‘Without an understanding and appreciation of the land, we are blind to the opportunities and threats that may surround us, so it is important that we learn how to read the land and the secrets and stories it holds. Aboriginal people have been doing this successfully for thousands of years.’
Cavalry Scouts con uctin tar et i entification Cavalry Scouts bein tau ht ho to rea the terrain for un er concealment o ortunities an threats
The Program has already garnered national participation, with Cavalry Scouts from the 12th 16th Hunter River Lancers, the 3rd 9th South Australian Mounted Rifles and the School of Armour travelling to the HMAS Cerberus Naval Base to marry up with 4th 19th PWLH for the culminating field exercise. Taking advantage of the Navy training facilities, the Cavalry Scouts also completed watercraft survivability training, including fire fighting, basic damage control and how to escape from a sinking vessel. The Program requires Cavalry Scouts to use their knowledge of the land to work in the shadows: to see without being seen and to leave no trace as they obtain, distribute, and communicate vital combat and battlefield information to the lines behind them. Importantly, the Tulugal Program teaches Cavalry Scouts deductive reasoning and critical analysis skills so that they can interpret what they are seeing, hearing, smelling and feeling and provide command with an intelligent combat and battlefield picture. Indigenous tracking, bush craft, navigation and surveillance skills are taught to participants of the program, who must then demonstrate these competencies in the field, proving their ability to combine contemporary and traditional tactics, techniques and procedures in order to gather an intelligence picture with stealth and cunning. Instillin cultural com etence The Program instils cultural competence. This goes beyond an ability to read the natural environment Cavalry Scouts are taught how to effectively engage with and better understand different cultures. For Trooper Luke Green, the 010 28 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST RESERVIST
An no for somethin com letely ifferent - Cavalry Scouts com lete atercraft survivability trainin inclu in basic ama e control an ho to esca e from a sin in vessel
Tulugal Program has been a remarkable opportunity to improve upon his basic RAAC proficiencies. ‘The ancient tracking skills of Aboriginal people can help us to read and interpret the information we are gathering on the battlefield. We are learning how every blade of grass tells a story.’ Wurund eri Elder Uncle Bill Nicholson Jr. was invited by the Army to present the Tulugal pin to the participants. ‘Having Uncle Bill present us with the Tulugal pin was meaningful. It was a great way to finish the program, which was all about our respect and recognition of Indigenous knowledge and the connection with the land,’ said Trooper Luke Green.
Partici ants of the Tulu al Pro ram 2017 ose ith Uncle ill Johnson Junior of the urun eri Tribe Lan Council after the com letion of E ercise erana
Conclusion The Tulugal Program is offered as the culminating activity in the training calendar, with a clear focus on RAAC Cavalry Scouts achieving the standard required for reconnaissance, surveillance and supporting Armoured Cavalry Regiment tasks.
292 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE PEOPLE S REPU LIC O CHINA - UO VADIS ri a ier Robert At inson A R D Presi ent Defence Reserves Association - South Australia
Intro uction The Reserves are a bridge between the community at large and Defence in its broadest sense. Given the changing nature of warfare the Reserve or part time force may well become more important in providing future needed capability cyber-warfare being one such example. This article has been written to stimulate awareness and encourage debate. It covers some of the challenges faced in dealing with China and the requirement to develop our circumstances to meet that need. Hegemony involves the domination by a nation in a region involving political, economic and military pro ection of power. Is China appearing to be a regional hegemon and potentially beyond. The ma or determinants of national security policy reside in the areas of culture and history, internal and external threats, with the wherewithal to proceed. By 1989, the Cold War was over and was essentially won by the Western democracies, particularly the United States. The Gulf War in 1991 demonstrated to the world the success of high technology weaponry and the application of good intelligence and communications the concept of the revolution in military affairs. This was not lost on China. China has a civilisation stretching back in the order of 5000 years. It is culturally sophisticated and has been inventive in the past, including the wheelbarrow, paper and gun powder for example. It was a far-reaching seafaring nation until policy changed under the Ming Emperors after the time of Marco Polo. China became more inward looking, ostensibly to protect its culture, but in the long-term this weakened the nation allowing dominance and humiliation by European powers in the 19th century. Confucianism has been present in China for some 2500 years, teaching the responsibilities to community and family and the individual in that order in some ways the opposite to the culture of individual liberty in the West. These cultural and historical circumstances provide a foundation for China’s attitude and to assessing these influences on national security policy and possible reasons for national behaviour. Re ional Consi erations China is surrounded by neighbours with many conflicts both historical and recent. Consideration of these regions demonstrates these circumstances and the potential for future conflict. Tai an In recent times Taiwan, which has historically been a part of China, separated in 1949 after the nationalist Kuomintang under Chiang Kai-Shek was defeated by the communist Chinese under Mao Zedong, who did not have the capability at that stage to invade this offshore island. The island (population 23 million) has developed democracy with presidential elections and has weathered occasional confrontation with communist China, which has a policy of seeking to re-integrate the ‘Province’. The island is well fortified and is a vibrant industrial society and well armed for its size, although incapable of defending the nation in isolation against the mainland Chinese. Consequently the United States has supported Taiwan, but therein lies potential difficulties over the years. Korea In 1953, after the Korean War, this country divided into North and South, with the North remaining communist and the South becoming an industrialised democracy supported by the United States, which continues to have ground troops on the border. The Korean War was strongly supported by the communist Chinese. At varying times the two Koreas have entered dialogue in regard to re-unification, although there has been no significant progress. The intercontinental missile and nuclear posturing over the years by North Korea remains an escalating problem with an unknown potential influence by China. At one stage a railroad was mooted to be built through the Koreas, Trans-Siberian, to Europe, ostensibly saving 40 of freight costs and of enormous value to the region. The North is considered ‘a rogue state’ by the United States and has developed missile capability of reaching certainly Guam, Hawaii, Alaska, over-flying Japan with the possibility of the Continental United States. Because of this nuclear capability, over the years dialogue has been entered into with the United States with a view to upgrading their economy at the price of removing the nuclear threat. This diplomacy has not prevented escalation. South Korea has one of the largest industrial economies in the world dependent upon free international sea-lanes. China’s relationship with North Korea hinges on the potential economic and technical advantages to be gained from South Korea. Ja an is the third largest economy in the world and is also dependent upon free and open sea-lanes. China sees the economic and technical advantages of Japan as enhancing Chinese society, although the much smaller population of Japan (1.4 billion compared to 126 million) will necessitate increasing protective sea power if the United States’
30 010 THETHE AUSTRALIAN RESERVISTRESERVIST defence umbrella is weakened. Russia has a huge land border with China, which in the past has been manned with large numbers of troops. In recent times these have been withdrawn and although Russia maintains a massive nuclear arsenal, its economic decrease means the country is now no longer the same super power and competitive with the Chinese. Their weapons technology is a means of gaining economic advantage and thus they are willing to sell arms and technology to the Chinese. on olia an the Central Asian Re ublics are sparsely populated, however, because of the potential of tribal as well as religious unrest, considering the Muslim population, the potential for insurgency and the terrorist use of weapons of mass destruction means they are of concern to China. Tibet was always in the sphere of influence of China but has been taken over with considerable threat to Tibetan culture. There has been no notable backlash to this as yet but it remains a point of conflict with popular Western opinion against China. In ia with 1.3 billion people, is the largest nation in the region after China. In the past there have been conflicts with China over disputed borders. Pakistan is also in conflict with India particularly in regard to Kashmir and weapons have been transferred from China to Pakistan. India lost its supporting ally of the Soviet Union and thus is more alone although as the world’s largest democracy tends to share values with the West. Both Pakistan and India are nuclear powers and the potential for conflict does exist. yanmar is being courted by China which threatens India on one side as Pakistan does on the other. This country also enables access to the Bay of Bengal in the Indian Ocean for China. In ochina particularly Vietnam, has had recent conflict (1979) with the Chinese who were able to overwhelm a battle hardened Vietnamese army because of large numbers of men and tanks. There is no conflict at the moment however, the potential in the South China Sea for such, over resources, does exist. The South China Sea has the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia bordering it as well and, given the potential resources in the seabed, conflict is possible. Unite States The only global competitor is the United States (US) which, as do other free trading nations, requires free and open sea lanes and accessibility to markets, particularly in Asia which has two-thirds of the world’s population. As China grows as a potential superpower, then their global reach will affect Europe and the United States both with economic competition and potential military threat. Australia would also be affected as a peripheral regional nation as well as globally, if China pro ects power beyond the region. Economics, military advancement, population pressures and an element of cultural superiority translate into an emergence of power and hegemony, gradually enabling China to take a ma or and super-power role globally in the future. The communist dictatorship with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) directs the nation, utilising the ‘herd’ behaviour facilitated by Confucianism and stopping dissent and controlling information to the outside world. China Regionally, China has regained Hong Kong and Macao by patiently waiting and is only left with Taiwan outside its traditional geographical entity. The perception to China is that Taiwan is a renegade province and to the rest of the world, particularly the United States, it appears as a bastion of democracy. The sensitivities of challenge to the mainland Chinese do not allow for recognition of an independent Taiwan nor encouragement to pursue this. Therein lies a significant risk, tempting China to a quick military solution if an advantage in weaponry and timing presents itself before a US response. The closed military dictatorship, without good communications with Taiwan and the US, could allow for an error of udgement. This wish of unification is one driver of China’s defence policy, building strategic forces to balance those of the US and to increase regional forces to dominate Taiwan. The South China Sea including the Spratly Islands with potentially large economic resources such as oil and gas, are gradually becoming dominated by China building artificial islands with Military potential. This hegemony can be applied throughout the region including Vietnam, Myanmar (Burma), and the dominance of Tibet. These influences reach to India through land and sea domination and to South Korea and Japan through sea domination. China’s economy is dependent upon global trade, with the importation of resources, technology and information and the exporting of goods, thus producing the gross national product to fund defence. It has oined the World Trade Organization. This exchange exposes the Chinese population to ideas of individual freedom. Therein lies a dilemma. The West see engagement at every level for example the Olympic Games in 2008 as a possible step towards democracy in the same manner as Taiwan. China sees an opportunity to develop the economic and military power to ‘rightfully’ dominate the region and present globally as a super power and still control its population. The Tiananmen Square protests, the human organ transplant programme, and managing the cloud resources for Apple, are examples of that control.
312 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
ana in the o er The West tries to manage that power using military and economic activity, plus alliances, although the risk of China reacting to the perception of containment presents a potential ‘arms race’. The US dominates with strategic missiles but China is catching up and will potentially reach a position of mutually assured destruction (MAD), neutralising the advantage of the US and enabling regional hegemony in a similar manner to what occurred during the Cold War with the Soviets. However, there is a wild card now ‘rogue states and non- state actors’ some of whom have been supplied weapons technology by China or North Korea. Without the controlled ‘client-state conflict’ of the Cold war, China may be in a position to capitalise upon the West’s focus on terrorist, chemical, biological and nuclear action. Sun Tzu would see the victory over an enemy by dominance and not bloodshed as the ultimate success. Modern weaponry, however, makes this strategy risky. Mao Zedong said ‘power grows out the barrel of a gun’. However the use of power in an unsophisticated manner is risk-taking and things can go wrong: for example, the US surveillance aircraft collision with a Chinese fighter. The evidence from this incident suggests a clumsy handling of the events and highlights the possibility of Chinese mis udgment in other areas - with the Taiwan Straits having the highest stakes. North Korea, a possible stalking horse for China, presents a problem if Chinese influence is ignored. The post-Olympic persecution of the Falun Gung sect and the paralleling of incarceration and organ transplant (data presented to the US Congress in 2017), tends to indicate that once the Chinese government has achieved their aims then world opinion is no longer relevant. This presupposes a certain arrogance. In 1989 the development of democracy seemed to be progressing with economic engagement with the West. But with the Cold War over and visions of the Berlin Wall coming down, the Tiananmen Square pro-democracy movement prompted a massive clamp-down from the Chinese government and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). There seems to be no move forward from this in the 21st century, with the central government remaining in increasing control. The influences that led to Tiananmen Square, however, still remain, as well as the desire for religious freedom as noted by the Falun Gung sect. Control of the population must remain a central part of Chinese national security or the military dictatorship will be weakened from within. If the Chinese people realise what is being done in their name, will the PLA shoot To control and unite the population the drum of Chinese nationalism can be beaten and a military adventure could do this once again, a risk in the Taiwan Straits would seem high but other dominating military ventures (for example in the South China Sea) could fulfil this role. An unknown factor in the security equation is the result of the one-child policy in China which has produced 40 million males of military age without female partners. As the 21st century progresses this bizarre demography may be a factor in military risk-taking. Conclusion In conclusion China appears to be an expanding regional hegemon, a military dictatorship with a ‘superior’ historic and cultural tradition and a massive population. The path ahead in the 21st century would seem to be a fine balance between military confrontation and a mature responsible place in the international order unless the hegemon fractures. There are chilling similarities between 1900 and 2000 and it remains to be seen whether Confucianism and liberal democracy together can bring together East and West for the mutual benefit of all people. This is not beyond the Chinese People.
China s e an in Navy China commissione its first-ever aircraft carrier the Liaonin in Se tember 2012 ormerly an unfinishe Soviet aircraft carri- er the shi as bou ht in 1998 A secon carrier no n as 001A (67 000 tons) as built as a close co y of the first an launche late 2017 A thir aircraft carrier of a ne esi n be an construction in arch 2015 at the Jian nan Chan in ao Shi yar in Shan - hai
32 3 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
READ SET UD - ADDIN SO ETHIN NE TO THE ILSKILLS CO PETITION Ca tain Lucy Saaroni Public Affairs Officer 4th ri a e Hea uarters
A in somethin ne to the ils ills Com etition From 27th - 29th October 2017, selected soldiers from the 4th Brigade’s Infantry, Engineers and the Combat Service Support Battalion units demonstrated their individual and teamwork skills at the Brigade’s Annual Military Skills Competition. In a unique and fun twist, day one of this year’s competition added in the ‘Tough Mudder’ obstacle course at St Anne’s Vineyard in Myrniong, Victoria. Teamwork was a vital component in getting through the course. The teams revelled in the electrically charged, icy and mud-soaked challenges, before travelling to Puckapunyal to prove their All-Corps soldier skills. ‘The Tough Mudder component provided an opportunity for the soldiers to fatigue themselves and have some fun together and do something quite different’ said CO 8 7 RVR, LTCOL Cadogan-Cowper. ‘8 7 RVR worked closely with the organisers of Tough Mudder Australia, to allow the soldiers exclusive access to the course. We greatly appreciate Tough Mudder’s support in making the course available to the soldiers prior to our usual Milskills competition.’
4th ri a e Sol iers ne otiate the various obstacles urin the Tou h u er course on Day One of the 4th ri a e ilitary S ills Com etition 2017 Team or as a ey element in successfully com letin the course
33010 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
After a rapid rinse off, the 4th Brigade teams travelled to Puckapunyal and spent the next two nights and days proving their soldier skills in more traditional ways: from marksmanship and navigation to the care of battlefield casualties. 4th ri a es Annual ils ills Com etition The 4th Brigade is Victoria’s Army Reserve Brigade. Its role is to support, sustain and reinforce the Army’s operational force. The Brigade is made up of over 2,000 soldiers and officers from across the State over a third of them have deployed in support of Australian Defence Force activities. The Annual Milskills Competition involves selected teams from the Brigade’s units testing themselves in a competitive and challenging environment, sometimes out of their normal work role. ‘It’s been a fantastic competition this year,’ said CPL Adrian Simsir of C Coy 5 6 RVR. ‘I’m the Company uartermaster, so the best part of the competition has been working closely with the infantrymen from my unit, which is outside of my usual role in the -store.’
Partici ants the 4th ri a es ils ills Com etition 2017 o all out to emonstrate their military s ills
34 2 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
THE ROAD RO RE ULAR TO RESERVE SERVICE Ser eant atthe rench - 4th 19th Prince of ales s Li ht Horse Re iment an Ca tain Lucy Saaroni - Public Affairs Officer 4th ri a e Hea uarters
Intro uction It is no secret that the diversity of professional and personal backgrounds of members in the ADF Reserve is a key reason for its strength. While many come to the Reserve upon completion of post-graduate degrees and qualifications in civilian trades, there is also a large cohort who oin the Reserve after a rich and rewarding full-time military career. These members bring their experience of warfare, teamwork and military know-how to bolster the Reserve capability. Here is Sergeant Mathew French’s story. Ser eant atthe rench Sergeant Matthew French spent over 23 years as a full time Cavalryman, transitioning through numerous promotions and operational deployments overseas. I have had many career highlights as a full time soldier,’ Sergeant French admits. ‘My operational deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor were unforgettable so was my deployment on the Long Look Exchange programme to the UK. They were excellent and truly unique experiences.’ After numerous deployments and promotions within the Armoured Corps, Sergeant Matthew French transitioned from the Australian Regular Army (ARA) to the Australian Army Reserve (ARes) in 2013. ‘The Army is and always will be a fundamental part of who I am. When I decided to leave the ARA, I still wanted to maintain a connection with the Army. The Army Reserve was an easy option for me to stay in the green in a flexible way.’ Like many ARA soldiers, SGT French drew on the support from the Army’s transition cell to get information and advice on career opportunities available to him. ‘All up, transitioning out of the Army took about four months. It can be overwhelming going back into the ob market after years in a niche career. The transition seminar and the staff in the transition cell were a huge help in that respect.’ S T rench on the ran e at Castle arten ales urin his Lon After getting a ob in a security firm, Sergeant Loo E han e ostin to the UK French’s first ARes posting was actually to an ARA Cavalry Squadron in Townsville. ‘The posting wasn’t what I expected. I discovered that Reserve work depended on flexibility both ways. Because of the nature of the unit, I needed to work around the full timers and their battle rhythm. The Regiment let me parade outside of the usual Tuesday night time-frame to suit both their workload and my ability to put my own civilian full time career first.’ ‘As a Reservist, I have paraded flexibly with a number of different units. ‘I worked overseas in a fly-in fly-out (FIFO) role at one stage, while also parading as a Reservist with B S N 3 4 CAV. It worked really well as I would do a week here, a few days there when I was back In Australia. I was supporting the Squadron’s activities as part of their training program. That was a great role because no two obs were ever the same. Plus I had the civilian work to mix things up when I wanted a break.’ In 2016, SGT French relocated to Melbourne with his civilian employer, Elbit Systems. His latest Army Reserve position has him working alongside ARes and ARA staff at 4th Brigade H . ‘I admire the way we work as one. The ARA staff put a lot of time and effort into making sure things run smoothly on Tuesday nights and training weekends, so that the ARes are able to provide manpower to the ARA units whenever and wherever they need it.’ SGT French continues to maintain his military skills, carrying them over into his civilian workplace - as a BMS (Battlefield Management Systems) Instructor and mentor for a ma or defence contractor. But SGT French is getting ready to transition again, from a role within the 4th Brigade Headquarters, to a position in the 4th 19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment. ‘As a Cavalryman, parading with 4th 19th will feel like a second homecoming. I’m looking forward to making new friends and professional contacts while serving in one of the most decorated Units in the history of the Australian Defence Force.’
35010 THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST THE AUSTRALIAN RESERVIST
OOK REVIE Romsey s Tribute 1914- 1919 by ichael arnett OA Revie e by Lieutenant Colonel Neville Taylor R D (Ret ) Defence Reserves Association - Victoria This monograph is a companion to Michael Garnett’s ‘ yneton Mounted i le Corps’ and ‘Militia nits o Maryborough 186 -19 1’ that were published in 2013 and 2017 respectively. Many Australian towns established Avenues of Honour to honour those who fought in the First World War. The people in the (then) Romsey Shire opted to recognise all who served in WWI by striking the Romsey Tribute Medal. It is this Medal that provided the catalyst for the writing of ‘ omsey s ribute 191 1919’. By 1914 Romsey had become an independent town that was served by a rail- way line providing access to Melbourne and seaside resort towns for day-trippers. Mills and factories provided employment for those not on the land, and numerous trades, three hotels and two papers made it a self-sufficient and an important local hub. A brief history of the volunteer units and rifle clubs that existed prior to Federa- tion and subsequently the militia and cadet units explains how Australia was in a sound position to raise a sizeable force to send overseas in 1914. In September 1914 the local Red Cross Society moved that the Shire put aside money for a Pa- triotic Fund. There was no lack of local patriotism as the Shire moved that ‘the meeting of residents of Romsey re-affirm its determination to assist in every pos- sible way in the prosecution of the war in which the British Empire and her Allies are now engaged’. This level of patriotism was to persist for the duration of hos- tilities. Extracts from The Romsey Examiner indicate the pressure exerted on the local citizens to enlist or support the war. The Examiner regularly published a Roll of Honour listing those who had volunteered. The problem of recruiting diminishing the farm labour pool certainly had a local impact. In 1916 Romsey and Lancefield had a military visitor seeking suitable horses for mounted and artillery regiments of the Australian Imperial Force. There were huge demands horses for Light Horse and Mounted Regiments both in Eu- rope and the Middle East. At Mia Mia, 45 kilometres north of Romsey, John Duigan flew Australia’s first homemade aeroplane in 1910. Duigan enlisted and flew with No 3 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps, winning the Military Cross for action in May 1918. He returned to pioneer aviation and to transform communications and travel in Australia. At home, at the 1882-built mansion Mintaro, Madame Charlotte Crivelli, the vice-president of the French Red Cross in Victoria hosted a Grand Fete to raise funds for the women and children in France. Over 500 people attended, with a special train assisting district locals who wished to attend the April 1916 event. The Shires of Romsey, Lancefield and Springfield amalgamated to form the Shire of Romsey in June 1916. The amal- gamated shires continued with the recommendation to honour citizens with a commemorative medal as a tribute for their service. The September 1916 Gisborne Gazette noted: ‘The public of Romsey will give a bronze medal (cost 5 -) to each of the men from the district going to the front (sic).’ The Tribute Medal had a Shire Crest surrounded by ‘Romsey and District, Victoria’ and the obverse with a margin ‘Honour to whom Honour is due’ and a central inscrip- tion ‘Presented to who nobly responded to the Empire’s call in the Great European War 1914-15’ indicating that it was issued subsequent to the Gallipoli campaign. It came with its own ribbon and was the same size as bravery and campaign medals. There were numerous well-attended public occasions when departing enlistees received their Medal as well as those who had been wounded and returned. Former residents who had moved and enlisted at other locations also received the Tribute Medal. Other aspects of the First World War are also mentioned: the very large memorial medallion that was issued to the next of kin to every soldier of the British Empire who died (to become known as ‘the dead man’s penny’) and the Lancefield connection to Lieutenant Harry (Breaker) Morant. This 2018 enhanced reprint of the 2017 original edition contains a very large number of pertinent photographs of places, events and people, portraits and facsimiles as well as a map of Romsey and the surrounding towns. This is an extremely appropriate and timely work that reflects Garnett’s love of his local history. Romsey’s Tribute is available from the author Michael Garnett OAM, PO Box 187 ROMSE VIC 3434, or at garnettm@ bigpond.net.au.
36 01 % 4.00p.a.* Fixed Term Investment APS Savings Ltd 12 or 24 MONTH 4.00% is offering these attractive TERM INVESTMENT p.a.* interest rates on fixed term investments 6 MONTH 3.50% Give APS Savings TERM INVESTMENT p.a.* a call on 1300 131 809 or go to our website 30 Day Notice www.apssavings.com.au to access of Withdrawal 3.00% the prospectus and application form. Investment Account p.a.*
Interest is calculated daily, paid monthly and can either be added to the principal or credited to a nominated account.
*APS Savings Disclaimer. This is not a bank product, it is an unlisted deposit note. No independent assessment has been made about the risk to investors losing any of their principal investment. Applications for deposit notes can only be made on the Investment Application Form which accompanies the prospectus issued by APS Savings Ltd. Please read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to make an investment. An online resource for ADF members and their families to fnd information on their posting location. www.defencecommunityhub.org.au
A joint initiative of Defence Community Organisation, Defence Families of Australia and Defence Housing Australia.