All the drama from Bersama - Department of Defence
All the drama from Bersama - Department of Defence
All the drama from Bersama - Department of Defence
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AIR<br />
FORCE<br />
Vol. 50, No. 21, November 13, 2008 The <strong>of</strong>ficial newspaper <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Royal Australian Air Force<br />
WOFF-AF<br />
reflects<br />
on role<br />
Page 2<br />
C-17s load<br />
up on Army<br />
wheels<br />
SKY HIGH<br />
<strong>All</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>drama</strong> <strong>from</strong> <strong>Bersama</strong><br />
Orion techos<br />
make a name<br />
in MEAO<br />
Page 3 Page 7<br />
Ex <strong>Bersama</strong><br />
Lima marks<br />
10,000hrs<br />
for FLTENG<br />
10SQN’s WOFF Steve<br />
Shuck is all smiles after<br />
becoming <strong>the</strong> second Air<br />
Force flight engineer to fly<br />
10,000 hours on <strong>the</strong> Orion.<br />
See his story on Page 4.<br />
Photo: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
Below left, an F-111 in<br />
Malaysia for Ex <strong>Bersama</strong><br />
Lima. Photo: LAC Scott<br />
Woodward<br />
Pages 14-15
2 News AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
AIR FORCE<br />
Director<br />
Rod Horan: (02) 6265 4650<br />
rod.horan@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Editor<br />
Simone Liebelt: (02) 6265 2253<br />
0400 003792<br />
simone.liebelt@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Deputy Editor/Sports Editor<br />
Barry Rollings: (02) 6265 7219<br />
barry.rollings@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Senior Reporter<br />
Andrew Stackpool: (02) 6266 7611<br />
andrew.stackpool@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Reporter/Photographer<br />
LAC Aaron Curran: (02) 6265 1355<br />
0400 192080<br />
aaron.curran@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Website: http://www.defence.gov.<br />
au/news/raafnews<br />
Email: raafnews@defencenews.gov.<br />
au (Put [sec=unclassified] after title in<br />
subject line)<br />
Subscriptions<br />
Trish Dillon: (02) 6266 7607<br />
tdillon@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Fax: (02) 6265 6690<br />
Advertising manager<br />
Ge<strong>of</strong>f Howard: (02) 6266 7605<br />
0405 445 260<br />
advertising@defencenews.gov.au<br />
Advertising Representative<br />
Tim Asher: (07) 3332 7651<br />
0414 552 667<br />
timothy.asher@defence.gov.au<br />
Postal address:<br />
R8–LG–048, Russell Offices<br />
Canberra, ACT 2600<br />
Disclaimer<br />
AIR FORCE News is published<br />
fortnightly by <strong>the</strong> Directorate <strong>of</strong> <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Newspapers. Printed by Capital Fine Print.<br />
The publisher reserves <strong>the</strong> right to refuse<br />
advertising if it is deemed inappropriate<br />
and to change <strong>the</strong> size <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ad, print<br />
type or o<strong>the</strong>r specifications if material is<br />
not compatible with our system. The fact<br />
an ad is accepted for publication does not<br />
mean that <strong>the</strong> product or service has <strong>the</strong><br />
endorsement <strong>of</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> or AIR FORCE<br />
News.<br />
AIR FORCE RANKS<br />
The following explains <strong>the</strong> rank<br />
abbreviations, as featured in<br />
AIR FORCE News<br />
ACM Air Chief Marshal<br />
AIRMSHL Air Marshal<br />
AVM Air Vice-Marshal<br />
AIRCDRE Air Commodore<br />
GPCAPT Group Captain<br />
WGCDR Wing Commander<br />
SQNLDR Squadron Leader<br />
FLTLT Flight Lieutenant<br />
FLGOFF Flying Officer<br />
PLTOFF Pilot Officer<br />
OFFCDT Officer Cadet<br />
WOFF-AF Warrant Officer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Air Force<br />
WOFF Warrant Officer<br />
FSGT Flight Sergeant<br />
SGT Sergeant<br />
CPL Corporal<br />
LAC Leading Aircraftman<br />
LACW Leading Aircraftwoman<br />
AC Aircraftman<br />
ACW Aircraftwoman<br />
ABC Learning<br />
to stay open,<br />
says Minister<br />
DEFENCE Science and Personnel<br />
Minister Warren Snowdon has<br />
reassured <strong>Defence</strong> families ABC<br />
Learning Centres will remain<br />
open despite <strong>the</strong> appointment <strong>of</strong><br />
administrators to <strong>the</strong> group.<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> has a contract with<br />
ABC Corporate Care for <strong>the</strong><br />
management <strong>of</strong> 18 <strong>Defence</strong><br />
owned childcare centres. The<br />
government has set up a hotline<br />
on 180 2003 and <strong>Defence</strong> families<br />
can also access information<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Community<br />
Organisation and <strong>the</strong> National<br />
Welfare Coordination Centre.<br />
PROUD AIRMAN: WOFF-AF<br />
Ray Woolnough will retire on<br />
December 16 after three years as<br />
<strong>the</strong> Airmen’s advocate. Since <strong>the</strong><br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> 2006, he has used<br />
<strong>the</strong> ‘Air Mail’ column in Air Force<br />
News to communicate important<br />
information to <strong>the</strong> Airmen force.<br />
Photos: LAC Aaron Curran<br />
Last air mail<br />
for WOFF-AF<br />
By LAC Aaron Curran<br />
AFTER three successful years<br />
in <strong>the</strong> job, <strong>the</strong> Airmen’s advocate,<br />
WOFF-AF Ray Woolnough, is<br />
hanging up his hat and retiring.<br />
WOFF-AF Woolnough joined<br />
<strong>the</strong> Air Force in 1987 as a Clerk<br />
(Equipment Accounts) and was posted<br />
to RAAF Base Townsville, followed<br />
by ADFA. He <strong>the</strong>n moved into<br />
a General Service Instructor’s role at<br />
No. 1 Recruit Training Unit for seven<br />
years, <strong>the</strong>n into <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> Clerk<br />
Supply. After completing <strong>the</strong> WOD<br />
course, he was posted to 75SQN,<br />
RAAF Base Tindal. After a successful<br />
tour <strong>of</strong> East Timor with 383 and<br />
386ECSS, WOFF-AF Woolnough<br />
was posted to Air Command as <strong>the</strong><br />
Air Command WOFF. After four<br />
years at Air Command, he reached<br />
<strong>the</strong> top enlisted Airman’s position as<br />
<strong>the</strong> fifth WOFF-AF.<br />
‘<br />
I honestly believe we<br />
have <strong>the</strong> best Airmen<br />
in <strong>the</strong> world’<br />
“I will be going back to<br />
Townsville,” WOFF-AF Woolnough<br />
said. “My wife’s family lives <strong>the</strong>re<br />
and my two children are both in<br />
Queensland.”<br />
With a wry smile he said<br />
Townsville was his home. He joined<br />
<strong>the</strong> Air Force <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong>re after arriving<br />
<strong>from</strong> Zimbabwe. “I remember getting<br />
<strong>of</strong>f in Townsville and having to chew<br />
<strong>the</strong> oxygen because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> humidity,”<br />
he said.<br />
WOFF-AF Woolnough’s last day<br />
will be on December 16 when he<br />
hands over <strong>the</strong> reins to WOFF John<br />
“JJ” Millar. A dining out night will be<br />
held for him at RAAF Base Wagga<br />
on November 28, after he reviews <strong>the</strong><br />
Clerk basic course graduation.<br />
“I chose Wagga for my dining<br />
out night because in my duties I was<br />
<strong>the</strong>re a lot, and it is, in my opinion,<br />
<strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Airman – our enlisted<br />
members; that is recruit, trade and<br />
promotion courses,” he said.<br />
“If I was going to get dined out,<br />
I wanted it to be at <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Airman.”<br />
The Queens Colour for <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force will be paraded with many<br />
serving and past members attending,<br />
including CAF and DCAF.<br />
“My fa<strong>the</strong>r-in-law, Bob Kinnane,<br />
who used to be <strong>the</strong> WOD <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Air Force, and my mo<strong>the</strong>r-in-law,<br />
Carmel, are coming as well,” WOFF-<br />
AF Woolnough said.<br />
The WOFF-AF role is being <strong>the</strong><br />
Airmen’s advocate and <strong>the</strong> senior<br />
enlisted Airman <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Air Force.<br />
“I am basically CAF’s right-hand<br />
man for Airmen issues,” he said.<br />
“I look after all issues that affect<br />
enlisted personnel and I stand up for<br />
<strong>the</strong>m when <strong>the</strong> need arises. If I have<br />
any issues, I can go straight to CAF<br />
as I have a direct link to him and I<br />
talk to him on a regular basis.”<br />
WOFF-AF Woolnough mentioned<br />
that after <strong>the</strong> introduction <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> EXEC WOFFs this year, he has<br />
established a great network with <strong>the</strong>m<br />
in <strong>the</strong> wider Air Force.<br />
Along with this support network<br />
<strong>of</strong> EXEC WOFFs, he has also sought<br />
to heighten <strong>the</strong> responsibilities <strong>of</strong><br />
NCOs, SNCOs and WOFFs.<br />
“My role has been varied, and I<br />
have sought to have NCOs, SNCOs<br />
and WOFFs stand up, because over<br />
time <strong>the</strong>ir responsibility and power<br />
has been diminished somewhat,” he<br />
said.<br />
“I don’t want <strong>the</strong>m to cause waves,<br />
but CAF and I need <strong>the</strong>m to stand up<br />
for <strong>the</strong>ir Airmen when <strong>the</strong>y need to<br />
and say what <strong>the</strong>y feel is right. They<br />
should empower those Airmen and<br />
give <strong>the</strong>m good guidance.<br />
“One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most important roles<br />
as WOFF-AF was talking to, listening<br />
to and resolving Airmen issues.”<br />
NEW ERA: WOFF-AF will<br />
soon hand over <strong>the</strong> reins to his<br />
successor, WOFF John “JJ” Millar<br />
(right), in Canberra.<br />
He said he was “not really interested<br />
in those metal pieces that stand<br />
on <strong>the</strong> hardstand”. His capability and<br />
interest is in our people.<br />
“If you don’t look after your<br />
people, <strong>the</strong> aircraft do not fly, it’s<br />
that simple,” he said. “The thing to<br />
remember is that <strong>the</strong> people are <strong>the</strong><br />
backbone <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Air Force.”<br />
WOFF-AF Woolnough said <strong>the</strong><br />
families <strong>of</strong> Air Force members are<br />
crucial as it is not just a single person<br />
who joins, but a whole family, and<br />
<strong>the</strong>y must be looked after.<br />
“I had great dreams about fixing<br />
a lot <strong>of</strong> things when I arrived in this<br />
position,” he said.<br />
“I feel I have lifted <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> position and people now know<br />
about this job and <strong>the</strong> importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> it. Having <strong>the</strong> EXEC WOFFs has<br />
helped enhance this position as well.”<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> big lessons WOFF-AF<br />
Woolnough has learnt is that CPLs<br />
must stop being treated as troops. He<br />
said <strong>the</strong>y are leaders and <strong>the</strong> best time<br />
to learn about leadership and making<br />
mistakes is when you are a CPL.<br />
“They can deal with small policy<br />
and personnel issues. They are not<br />
‘senior LACs’,” he said. “As a result,<br />
when <strong>the</strong>y become a SGT <strong>the</strong>y have<br />
gained more experience and can deal<br />
with issues comfortably, so that over<br />
time we have an experienced group<br />
<strong>of</strong> leaders in <strong>the</strong> SGT and FSGT roles<br />
that do not get overly-excited when<br />
confronted with big issues.”<br />
He said <strong>the</strong> Air Force is in a<br />
great position, has an excellent team<br />
under <strong>the</strong> current CAF with vision<br />
for <strong>the</strong> future and is heading in <strong>the</strong><br />
right direction. As for his successor,<br />
WOFF-AF Woolnough said one <strong>of</strong><br />
WOFF Millar’s strongest points was<br />
his great people skills and rapport<br />
with <strong>the</strong> wider Air Force.<br />
“My final advice to Airmen is to<br />
look after yourself, your family and<br />
your career,” WOFF-AF said.<br />
“If you do not look after yourself<br />
you can’t look after your family.<br />
Keep up <strong>the</strong> good work, do yourselves<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Air Force proud. I honestly<br />
believe we have <strong>the</strong> best Airmen in<br />
<strong>the</strong> world.<br />
“Finally, I would like to take this<br />
opportunity to thank my wife, Sheryl,<br />
and my two children, Dale and Kylie,<br />
for <strong>the</strong>ir support over <strong>the</strong> last 22<br />
years. Without <strong>the</strong>ir support I would<br />
not have reached <strong>the</strong> pinnacle <strong>of</strong> an<br />
Airman’s career. Thank you.”
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
News<br />
Globemaster’s big lift<br />
36SQN C-17s set new standard<br />
with major Army airlift in one day<br />
By Steve Ridgway<br />
IN A FIRST for <strong>the</strong> Air Force and<br />
rmy, two C-17s moved 20 armoured<br />
ehicles and <strong>the</strong>ir crews <strong>from</strong> RAAF<br />
ase Amberley to Townsville in one<br />
ay, as part <strong>of</strong> Exercise Swift Eagle.<br />
It took each aircraft two flights, but<br />
both Globemaster crews had finished <strong>the</strong><br />
job by <strong>the</strong> evening on September 30.<br />
Air Force achieved <strong>the</strong> task without<br />
etriment to C-17 support to operations<br />
n <strong>the</strong> Middle East.<br />
The lift involved 16 Australian Light<br />
rmoured Vehicles (ASLAVs), four<br />
ushmasters and more than 50 personnel<br />
– a complete combat team.<br />
Each ASLAV weighed an average<br />
28,000lb and was restrained with 22<br />
x 10,000lb chains and devices – that<br />
meant more than 250 metric tonnes <strong>of</strong><br />
rmoured vehicles being moved 1400km<br />
n less than 10 hours.<br />
“We were keen to demonstrate that<br />
ur heavy lift capability is fully operaional.<br />
The task went so smoothly, I think<br />
he whole team exceeded <strong>the</strong>ir own high<br />
xpectations,” 36SQN loadmaster WOFF<br />
ohn Maddigan said.<br />
“The Army presented <strong>the</strong>ir vehi-<br />
cles prepared and ready to move by air.<br />
The Air Movements Team at Amberley<br />
processed and loaded <strong>the</strong> vehicles in<br />
record time. The prior preparation by Air<br />
Movements was critical to our success.”<br />
MAJ Stuart Cree, who commanded<br />
<strong>the</strong> armoured combat team, said “it went<br />
brilliantly”.<br />
“The C-17 comfort levels are also a<br />
significant improvement on <strong>the</strong> C-130.<br />
There’s a lot more room, and <strong>the</strong> noise<br />
level is much lower. It meant our vehicle<br />
crews were well-rested and fit to fight,”<br />
he said.<br />
Commander 7BDE BRIG Steve Day<br />
said: “We’ve done movements like this<br />
before, to East Timor and <strong>the</strong> Middle<br />
East, that relied on ships. That meant we<br />
had long lead-up times, usually months.<br />
“I can’t say enough about <strong>the</strong> great<br />
team at Amberley and <strong>the</strong> work <strong>the</strong>y did.<br />
The ground liaison <strong>of</strong>ficer, <strong>the</strong> squadron<br />
and <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> team at Amberley are<br />
very cooperative and no-nonsense pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />
who are keen to try new<br />
approaches, so <strong>the</strong>y are great to work<br />
with.<br />
“I’m looking to do business with<br />
<strong>the</strong>m again next year for our major exercises,”<br />
he said.<br />
WEIGHTY PROBLEM: Loadmasters secure <strong>the</strong> Abrams main battle tank<br />
inside <strong>the</strong> C-17 with tie-down chains during <strong>the</strong> load trials at RAAF Base<br />
Darwin. Photo: AC Dan Pinhorn<br />
Tanks for all your<br />
help, Air Force<br />
By Steve Ridgway<br />
AIR Force’s C-17 fleet achieved<br />
no<strong>the</strong>r major milestone on October<br />
8 when a 1BDE Abrams M1A1 main<br />
battle tank was loaded aboard a C-17 at<br />
AAF Base Darwin.<br />
“The practice loading <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Abrams<br />
on to a C-17 is part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ongoing<br />
and continual expansion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air lift<br />
envelope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> aircraft,” 36SQN XO<br />
SQNLDR David Jackson said.<br />
“The exercise provided considerable<br />
experience for 36SQN aircrew and Army<br />
personnel, and proved that an Abrams<br />
can be loaded and carried on a C-17. Air<br />
Movements Training and Development<br />
Unit personnel greatly assisted in making<br />
this exercise a success.<br />
“This was <strong>the</strong> first time we loaded<br />
an M1A1 tank into a C-17,” 36SQN’s<br />
FLTLT Dean Bolton said.<br />
“We knew this aircraft was capable<br />
<strong>of</strong> moving five ASLAVS or three Black<br />
Hawk helicopters and we proved that it<br />
could deliver a battle tank.<br />
“The procedures and systems we have<br />
in place are good to go,” he said.<br />
Normally, <strong>the</strong> C-17 is limited by<br />
<strong>the</strong> volume <strong>of</strong> its cargo ra<strong>the</strong>r than its<br />
weight, but <strong>the</strong> tank changed all that.<br />
“Weight-wise this was <strong>the</strong> heaviest<br />
single-point source we have loaded on to<br />
this aircraft,” FLTLT Bolton said.<br />
“Although <strong>the</strong>re was heaps <strong>of</strong> space<br />
we were weight-limited with <strong>the</strong> load.”<br />
The successful loading means that<br />
1BDE’s heavy armour can be delivered<br />
fur<strong>the</strong>r and a lot faster than ever before.<br />
“We had previously moved <strong>the</strong> M1A1<br />
by sea, rail and road and now we have<br />
confirmed that we can move it by air,”<br />
OC B SQN 1 ARMD REGT MAJ Chris<br />
Gardiner said.<br />
“This exercise confirmed <strong>the</strong> compatibility<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> C-17 as a lift platform<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Abrams. It is part <strong>of</strong> preparation<br />
for a Ready Tank Troop that is capable<br />
<strong>of</strong> being deployed if asked to go by <strong>the</strong><br />
government.”<br />
The loading exercise was an important<br />
part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> process.<br />
“We needed to do this to confirm <strong>the</strong><br />
configurations, know what preparations<br />
we require, and what we require <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Air Force,” MAJ Gardiner said.<br />
ON THE MOVE: Above, Army ASLAVs and Bushmasters<br />
are loaded aboard a 36SQN C-17 at RAAF Base Amberley<br />
for <strong>the</strong>ir trip to Townsville. Two C-17s moved 20 vehicles<br />
and 50 personnel in just one day.<br />
FOUR OF A KIND: Right, four ASLAVS fill <strong>the</strong> after<br />
section <strong>of</strong> a C-17 before <strong>the</strong>y are airlifted to Townsville<br />
during Exercise Swift Eagle. Photos: MAJ Jeffrey Goltz<br />
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4 News AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
FLTENG’s top<br />
ten on Orion<br />
By FLTLT Jaimie Abbott<br />
THE AP-3C was five-and-a-half<br />
hours into a flight during <strong>the</strong> recent<br />
xercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima 2008 when<br />
ts flight engineer smiled to himself<br />
n <strong>the</strong> cockpit.<br />
Focused on <strong>the</strong> mission over <strong>the</strong><br />
South China Sea, <strong>the</strong> 10SQN aircrew<br />
were unaware <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> exact moment<br />
that WOFF Steve Shuck took time<br />
to reflect on <strong>the</strong> past 30 years <strong>of</strong> his<br />
career, but after <strong>the</strong>y landed <strong>the</strong> celebrations<br />
began to mark his 10,000<br />
hours <strong>of</strong> flying on <strong>the</strong> Orion.<br />
WOFF Shuck is only <strong>the</strong> second<br />
flight engineer in <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force’s history to reach such a milestone<br />
– 10SQN colleague WOFF<br />
Brenton Bell was <strong>the</strong> first – and he<br />
was thrilled to have it happen in<br />
Butterworth.<br />
“Malaysia is one <strong>of</strong> my favourite<br />
places out <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> countries we regularly<br />
travel to in <strong>the</strong> world including<br />
<strong>the</strong> Middle East, South Pacific,<br />
Europe and <strong>the</strong> United States,”<br />
WOFF Shuck said.<br />
The 47-year-old’s career began in<br />
1978 when he joined as an apprentice<br />
engine fitter. His passion was<br />
helicopters, and he worked as a flight<br />
fitter at <strong>the</strong> former 5SQN.<br />
SHUCK’S OFFICE: A 10SQN Orion<br />
taxis out <strong>of</strong> Butterworth for a mission<br />
during <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima.<br />
Working his way up <strong>the</strong> ranks, he<br />
spent time as a senior flight engineer<br />
instructor at 292SQN and worked on<br />
<strong>the</strong> AP-3C when it first replaced <strong>the</strong><br />
P-3 Orion in 1999.<br />
“Teaching o<strong>the</strong>r engineers at<br />
292SQN was probably among <strong>the</strong><br />
highlights <strong>of</strong> my career. I enjoyed<br />
seeing <strong>the</strong> students develop new<br />
skills, particularly in <strong>the</strong> upgraded<br />
aircraft,” WOFF Shuck said.<br />
The Air Force momentarily lost<br />
WOFF Shuck when he went to work<br />
for Qantas as a flight engineer on <strong>the</strong><br />
B747s <strong>from</strong> 2001-2002. He clocked<br />
up 700 hours on international flights<br />
before he re-joined <strong>the</strong> Air Force.<br />
Aviation life is perhaps in <strong>the</strong><br />
blood for WOFF Shuck. His fa<strong>the</strong>r<br />
was an airline pilot, and now his 20year-old<br />
son Cameron is studying<br />
aeronautical engineering at ADFA.<br />
Few aircrew members will ever<br />
reach 10,000 hours flying time in<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir careers, and WOFF Shuck credits<br />
it to his wife <strong>of</strong> 26 years, Rhonda.<br />
“We are away on average five<br />
months a year, so she has essentially<br />
been a single mum all this time to my<br />
son and daughter. It’s been difficult at<br />
times as I’ve missed sporting events,<br />
birthdays and homework,” he said.<br />
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Even more difficult was losing<br />
his colleague and friend FLGOFF<br />
Thomas Henniker, <strong>the</strong> crew member<br />
who died in <strong>the</strong> 1991 P-3C crash on<br />
Cocos Island.<br />
Losing a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> team hit<br />
hard for many, as 92WG aircrew are<br />
like a second family to each o<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
“Flying with crews like this one<br />
(2/10SQN) is what makes it so enjoyable,”<br />
WOFF Shuck said.<br />
“So clocking up 10,000 hours<br />
over 30 years may sound like a long<br />
time, but it has gone so fast because<br />
I really do enjoy <strong>the</strong> job and <strong>the</strong> people.”<br />
Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima 92WG<br />
Detachment Commander SQNLDR<br />
Lee Read said WOFF Shuck would<br />
have a head filled with fantastic<br />
memories.<br />
“The entire crew is proud <strong>of</strong> what<br />
he has achieved, and in a job where<br />
no two days are ever <strong>the</strong> same, he<br />
has seen so much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world and<br />
experienced things very few people<br />
would ever get to do in a lifetime,”<br />
SQNLDR Read said.<br />
When WOFF Shuck was asked<br />
what he would do differently in his<br />
career if he could turn back time he<br />
replied: “I wouldn’t change a thing.”<br />
GOING THE DISTANCE: While on Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima in Malaysia,<br />
10SQN’s WOFF Steve Shuck became only <strong>the</strong> second Orion flight engineer to<br />
clock up 10,000 flying hours for Air Force. Photos: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
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AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
News<br />
The view <strong>from</strong> above<br />
Australian and Singaporean Air<br />
Force Chiefs enhance relationships<br />
RELATIONS and cooperation<br />
between <strong>the</strong> RAAF and Republic <strong>of</strong><br />
ingapore Air Force (RSAF) are to be<br />
ur<strong>the</strong>r enhanced following a recent<br />
meeting between CAF AIRMSHL Mark<br />
inskin and <strong>the</strong> RSAF Chief MAJGEN<br />
Ng Chee Khern.<br />
The two Chiefs met during a visit<br />
to RAAF Base Pearce where <strong>the</strong>y also<br />
met members <strong>of</strong> No. 2 Flight Training<br />
chool (2FTS) and <strong>the</strong> RSAF’s 130SQN,<br />
hich is Singapore’s equivalent training<br />
quadron.<br />
The visit followed <strong>the</strong> signing <strong>of</strong><br />
Memorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding on<br />
efence cooperation between <strong>the</strong> two<br />
ountries last August.<br />
Presently, <strong>the</strong> RSAF conducts a<br />
number <strong>of</strong> flying training activities in<br />
ustralia, including its ‘Basic Wings’<br />
ourse at Pearce.<br />
Its presence <strong>the</strong>re comprises 30 airraft<br />
and more than 150 military and<br />
ivilian personnel.<br />
AIRMSHL Binskin said that <strong>the</strong><br />
AAF had a very well-established relaionship<br />
with <strong>the</strong> RSAF.<br />
“This was demonstrated through<br />
our exercise program, both bilaterally<br />
and through <strong>the</strong> Five Power <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Arrangements (FPDA),” AIRMSHL<br />
Binskin said.<br />
“Elements <strong>of</strong> both our air forces have<br />
just completed FPDA Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong><br />
Lima, centred on <strong>the</strong> South China Sea.<br />
Singapore also played a major role in<br />
Exercise Pitch Black, sending F-16, F-5,<br />
E-2C and KC-135 aircraft.<br />
“This visit to RAAF and RSAF pilottraining<br />
facilities illustrates our focus on<br />
<strong>the</strong> future. Both services have outstanding<br />
training staff and very promising<br />
young pilots based here.<br />
“[The] new Memorandum <strong>of</strong><br />
Understanding provides <strong>the</strong> foundation<br />
for us to explore new opportunities for<br />
<strong>the</strong> future,” he said.<br />
During <strong>the</strong> visit, <strong>the</strong> two Chiefs were<br />
afforded an appreciation <strong>of</strong> each o<strong>the</strong>r’s<br />
air force’s flying capabilities when<br />
CAF was taken for a flight in one <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> RSAF’s PC-21 trainer aircraft, while<br />
MAJGEN Ng flew in one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 2FTS<br />
PC-9s.<br />
HIGH FLYERS: Above, AIRMSHL Mark Binskin and MAJGEN Ng Chee<br />
Khern get back to basics during <strong>the</strong>ir meeting at RAAF Base Pearce.<br />
WALKABOUT: Right, <strong>the</strong> two Chiefs head out to <strong>the</strong> flightline for <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
flights. Photos: Chris Kershaw<br />
CLOSE CONTACT: Left, <strong>the</strong> Chiefs experience each o<strong>the</strong>r’s aircraft <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> back seat over Pearce. Photo: FLTLT Ray Hurley<br />
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5
6 International AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
High praise for air traffic<br />
controller’s MEAO work<br />
P01820<br />
By FLTLT Jaimie Abbott<br />
EVER since he left school,<br />
SQNLDR Greg Owens wanted<br />
to be a military air traffic control<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficer (ATCO). Now, his efforts<br />
have earned him one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Force’s highest commendations.<br />
CDF has awarded <strong>the</strong> RAAF<br />
Base Williamtown 44WG ATCO a<br />
CDF Commendation for his “tireless<br />
and exemplary performance”<br />
supporting Operations Catalyst and<br />
Slipper in <strong>the</strong> Middle East Area <strong>of</strong><br />
Operations (MEAO).<br />
SQNLDR Owens is <strong>the</strong> first<br />
deployed ATCO to receive a CDF<br />
Commendation. He worked in <strong>the</strong><br />
Combined Air Operations Centre<br />
in <strong>the</strong> MEAO for just over six<br />
months and returned to Australia in<br />
November last year.<br />
The experience was nothing like<br />
he had anticipated.<br />
“My job was to help re-build <strong>the</strong><br />
infrastructure supporting <strong>the</strong> Iraq<br />
and Afghanistan airspace, which<br />
meant developing rules and procedures<br />
for aircraft operating in civilian<br />
airspace,” SQNLDR Owens<br />
said.<br />
“It was very different to what<br />
ATCOs do here in Australia where<br />
we are day-to-day operationallyfocused.<br />
I had to think more stra- A<br />
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WELL DESERVED: SQNLDR<br />
Greg Owens received a CDF<br />
Commendation for his efforts in<br />
<strong>the</strong> MEAO as an air traffic control<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficer. Photo: LEUT Peter Bounty<br />
tegically in <strong>the</strong> MEAO, with longterm<br />
planning.<br />
“I thought I was going over <strong>the</strong>re<br />
to do combat airspace planning, and<br />
it turned out to be more focused on<br />
civilian airspace – which ironically<br />
is all about keeping <strong>the</strong> combat guys<br />
out <strong>of</strong> civilian airspace,” he said.<br />
Afghanistan alone has had<br />
a major increase in its volume <strong>of</strong><br />
air traffic, with aid agencies and<br />
military transport aircraft flying on<br />
civilian airways.<br />
SQNLDR Owens had to liaise<br />
with community members and<br />
stakeholders, including various<br />
international aviation authorities, to<br />
achieve his task.<br />
“It was very challenging work,<br />
but <strong>the</strong> training we receive as military<br />
ATCOs makes us perfect for<br />
<strong>the</strong> job over <strong>the</strong>re [as] we are very<br />
much aligned to <strong>the</strong> International<br />
Civil Aviation Organisation standards<br />
and procedures,” he said.<br />
SQNLDR Owens joined <strong>the</strong><br />
Army as an air traffic controller<br />
<strong>from</strong> school in 1991 before switching<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Air Force in 1997.<br />
“This is a great award and it’s<br />
very humbling to have my contribution<br />
recognised. <strong>All</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ATCOs<br />
before me have done an outstanding<br />
job, and I consider myself very<br />
fortunate to have been recognised<br />
<strong>from</strong> a pool <strong>of</strong> such highly-talented<br />
controllers,” he said.<br />
“The opportunity I had over<br />
<strong>the</strong>re was pr<strong>of</strong>essionally rewarding,<br />
as I got to bring my skill sets<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r to make a positive contribution<br />
to <strong>the</strong> redevelopment <strong>of</strong> Iraq<br />
and Afghanistan.<br />
“Hopefully, what I helped to<br />
achieve over <strong>the</strong>re will make a lasting<br />
impact on aviation safety in<br />
both countries.”<br />
A program <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service<br />
TRADING PLACES: WGCDR Krista Thompson is farewelled by her successor,<br />
new task group commander WGCDR Richard Pizzuto, at <strong>the</strong> CRC. WGCDR<br />
Thompson has recently returned home after six months in Afghanistan.<br />
job well<br />
done in<br />
Kandahar<br />
By FLGOFF Alesha Whitehead<br />
IN APRIL this year, WGCDR Krista<br />
Thompson became <strong>the</strong> first RAAF female<br />
commander <strong>of</strong> a task group in Afghanistan.<br />
After a successful six month<br />
deployment, Task Group 633.12, <strong>the</strong><br />
only RAAF unit in Afghanistan, has<br />
farewelled its commander.<br />
WGCDR Thompson and her 75strong<br />
contingent at <strong>the</strong> Control and<br />
Reporting Centre (CRC) in Kandahar<br />
have been putting in <strong>the</strong> hard yards.<br />
They are responsible for <strong>the</strong> air battle<br />
management and airspace safety for<br />
<strong>the</strong> hundreds <strong>of</strong> military and civilian<br />
manned and unmanned aircraft that transit<br />
Afghan airspace every day.<br />
WGCDR Thompson’s highest priority<br />
during her command was for <strong>the</strong><br />
task group to work as a well-coordinated<br />
team to achieve its mission to <strong>the</strong> highest<br />
possible standard.<br />
“I achieved my goal to have a team<br />
who worked extremely hard toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
to provide a unique capability that is<br />
very highly regarded by our fellow<br />
ISAF/NATO coalition forces,” WGCDR<br />
Thompson said.<br />
Late last month, <strong>the</strong> TG633.12<br />
personnel said goodbye to WGCDR<br />
Thompson, as she handed over to<br />
new task group commander, WGCDR<br />
Richard Pizzuto.<br />
“It has been a real privilege to have<br />
had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to command a<br />
deployed operational unit, and one that<br />
provides such a vital capability to <strong>the</strong><br />
whole air operation in Afghanistan as<br />
<strong>the</strong> CRC. I wish my successor all <strong>the</strong><br />
best for his command over <strong>the</strong> next six<br />
months,” she said.<br />
WGCDR Pizzuto said he was very<br />
happy to take over a robust and well run<br />
unit that is doing such an important job.<br />
“I look forward to <strong>the</strong> challenges<br />
ahead, <strong>of</strong> which I am sure <strong>the</strong>re will<br />
be many. I would like to acknowledge<br />
WGCDR Thompson’s efforts; I certainly<br />
have big shoes to fill,” WGCDR Pizzuto<br />
said.<br />
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AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
First rate<br />
techos<br />
By FLTLT Skye Smith<br />
THE Orion technicians in <strong>the</strong> Middle<br />
ast Area <strong>of</strong> Operations (MEAO) celbrated<br />
a well-earned milestone recently<br />
by achieving a 100 per cent AP-3C mision<br />
launch rate over <strong>the</strong> previous 12<br />
months in <strong>the</strong>atre.<br />
The extraordinary achievement was<br />
largely attributed to <strong>the</strong> dedication and<br />
commitment <strong>of</strong> maintainers <strong>from</strong> 10 and<br />
11SQNs since August 1, 2007.<br />
The 11SQN technicians at <strong>the</strong> task<br />
group’s ‘Spider Maintenance’ section<br />
were recognised for <strong>the</strong>ir continued<br />
hard work and tireless efforts by <strong>the</strong><br />
ommander Task Group 633.2, WGCDR<br />
raig Meighan.<br />
WGCDR Meighan presented ‘Spider<br />
aintenance’ with a group commendation<br />
or its outstanding level <strong>of</strong> skill, attitude,<br />
eamwork and performance in aircraft<br />
maintenance operations.<br />
“Each member should be justifiably<br />
proud <strong>of</strong> its outstanding efforts and<br />
achievements,” he said on presenting <strong>the</strong><br />
commendation. “Your tireless efforts in<br />
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bcm:qula 046 CRICOS no.00213J<br />
difficult working conditions have enabled<br />
<strong>the</strong> task group to achieve continued operational<br />
success and maintain our commitments<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Middle East.”<br />
‘Spider Maintenance’, led by <strong>the</strong> task<br />
group’s senior engineering <strong>of</strong>ficer FLTLT<br />
Damon Stefani, also successfully conducted<br />
an aircraft rescue mission – completing<br />
an engine change in difficult conditions,<br />
while maintaining <strong>the</strong> flawless mission<br />
launch rate back at <strong>the</strong> task group.<br />
“Pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism and teamwork, combined<br />
with a determination to succeed,<br />
will ensure 11SQN continues to achieve a<br />
high level <strong>of</strong> aircraft serviceability at Task<br />
Group 633.2 in support <strong>of</strong> Operations<br />
Catalyst and Slipper,” FLTLT Stefani said.<br />
“The operational successes achieved<br />
by <strong>the</strong> task group over <strong>the</strong> past 12 months<br />
would not have been possible without <strong>the</strong><br />
support <strong>from</strong> back home at 92WG.”<br />
The 92WG ‘Quiet Achiever’ status is<br />
still a deserving motto for all <strong>the</strong> members<br />
who support AP-3C operations in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Middle East, as well as back home in<br />
Australia.<br />
‘Stephanie’ takes to <strong>the</strong> skies<br />
CELEBRATE: Gold Crew Captain<br />
FLTLT Jonathan Morgan christens<br />
<strong>the</strong> AP-3C named in honour <strong>of</strong><br />
Olympic swimmer Stephanie Rice.<br />
Photo: LAC Bennett Idstein<br />
THE newest member <strong>of</strong> Task Group<br />
633.2 has flown into <strong>the</strong> MEAO and has<br />
a big task ahead <strong>of</strong> her in support <strong>of</strong> Operations<br />
Catalyst and Slipper.<br />
The newly-deployed AP-3C <strong>from</strong><br />
11SQN was welcomed into <strong>the</strong> task group<br />
with a naming ceremony in honour <strong>of</strong> one<br />
<strong>of</strong> Australia’s finest female athletes.<br />
The Orion, now known as ‘Stephanie’,<br />
was named by Maintenance Shift 23<br />
Bravo after <strong>the</strong> Australian Olympic<br />
swimmer and three-time gold medallist,<br />
Stephanie Rice.<br />
Both Stephanie Rice and <strong>the</strong> newlydeployed<br />
Orion aircraft have been destined<br />
for success ever since <strong>the</strong>ir arrival<br />
on to <strong>the</strong> big stage, according to task<br />
group member CPL Andrew Summers.<br />
“The long, smooth figure and design<br />
is built for speed and manoeuvrability<br />
while maintaining its sense <strong>of</strong> gracefulness,”<br />
CPL Summers said.<br />
Gold Crew Captain FLTLT Jonathan<br />
Morgan honoured <strong>the</strong> occasion by spraying<br />
(non-alcoholic) champagne on <strong>the</strong><br />
aircraft’s nose in celebration.<br />
Naming military aircraft dates back<br />
to WWI with <strong>the</strong> B-17 Flying Fortress<br />
becoming famous during WWII.<br />
Aircraft names have been chosen<br />
<strong>from</strong> cartoon characters or celebrities <strong>of</strong><br />
that era such as ‘Miss Saigon’ <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Vietnam War or ‘Memphis Belle’ and<br />
‘Miss Daisy’ <strong>from</strong> WWII.<br />
The tradition <strong>of</strong> naming Orion aircraft<br />
on operations dates back to 92WG’s first<br />
tour to <strong>the</strong> Middle East in 2003.<br />
“The naming <strong>of</strong> aircraft provides a<br />
level <strong>of</strong> operational security and a familiar<br />
personality that helps foster morale<br />
and a sense <strong>of</strong> ownership by all involved<br />
in support <strong>of</strong> its operations,” task group<br />
senior engineering <strong>of</strong>ficer FLTLT Damon<br />
Stefani said.<br />
International<br />
7<br />
BIG EFFORT: Above, AP-3C technicians with <strong>the</strong><br />
commendation <strong>the</strong>y received for achieving a 100 per<br />
cent launch rate in <strong>the</strong> MEAO. Photo: LAC Bennett Idstein<br />
ON THE JOB: Left, 11SQN technician LAC Paul<br />
Schmidt attaches <strong>the</strong> armed flare system to an Orion<br />
during routine maintenance.<br />
PROUD: Below, 11SQN members with <strong>the</strong> Orion <strong>the</strong>y<br />
named ‘Stephanie’. Photos: AB Paul Berry
8 News AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
A new lease <strong>of</strong> life<br />
for RAAF Base<br />
Point Cook airfield<br />
By Peter Johnson<br />
AIRFIELD works at RAAF Base<br />
illiams, Point Cook, are giving <strong>the</strong><br />
home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Air Force a new lease <strong>of</strong><br />
ife.<br />
Works to upgrade airfield lighting are<br />
almost complete, while reconstruction <strong>of</strong><br />
more than 800 square metres <strong>of</strong> tarmac<br />
nd aircraft parking area is due to start<br />
n November and continue until <strong>the</strong> end<br />
f February, 2009.<br />
The project is to ensure that operaions<br />
on <strong>the</strong> world’s oldest continuously<br />
perating military airfield remain safe<br />
nd secure.<br />
The Point Cook airfield is used by <strong>the</strong><br />
AAF Museum, transiting and deployed<br />
military aircraft and licensed civilian<br />
perators.<br />
The lighting work comprises <strong>the</strong> proision<br />
<strong>of</strong> aeronautical ground lighting to<br />
runway 17/35 and exit taxiway lighting,<br />
ncluding <strong>the</strong> installation <strong>of</strong> constant<br />
urrent regulators and associated conrols.<br />
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority<br />
ested and commissioned <strong>the</strong> pilot-actiated<br />
lighting system.<br />
The pavement work includes apron<br />
reconstruction.<br />
Pavement maintenance work completed<br />
earlier this year comprised joint<br />
resealing, concrete crack repairs, asphalt<br />
patch repairs, runway, taxiway and apron<br />
ine markings, and treating areas <strong>of</strong> segregated<br />
asphalt on runways.<br />
Minor works include clipping trees<br />
and hedges and installing new windsocks.<br />
“Our target is to have <strong>the</strong> airfield<br />
works complete in time to support <strong>the</strong><br />
Avalon Air Show in March next year,”<br />
CO Combat Support Unit Williams<br />
(CSUWIL) WGCDR Margot Forster<br />
said.<br />
“It is essential remediation work to<br />
enhance aviation safety.”<br />
Point Cook Redevelopment Officer<br />
WGCDR Bob Coopes said one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
challenges was to shift residual rotary<br />
wing military aviation support <strong>from</strong><br />
Laverton across to Point Cook.<br />
“Now that we have <strong>the</strong> Williams<br />
Landing major housing development on<br />
<strong>the</strong> old Laverton airfield site, we have<br />
moved all military aviation operations to<br />
Point Cook,” he said.<br />
CSUWIL also was developing <strong>the</strong><br />
skills <strong>of</strong> reservists to support military<br />
aviation at Point Cook.<br />
The unit has an integrated workforce<br />
<strong>of</strong> 80 reservists and 20 permanent Air<br />
Force members. A significant proportion<br />
<strong>of</strong> what CSUWIL delivers is due to<br />
reservists.<br />
BOYS LIGHT UP: Alan Beggs, <strong>the</strong><br />
Point Cook sight safety <strong>of</strong>ficer, checks<br />
on <strong>the</strong> lighting works at <strong>the</strong> new D25<br />
pit junction box <strong>of</strong> Point Cook’s runway<br />
17/35. Photo: WOFF Don Kenny<br />
DIGGERS: From left, CO Combat Support Unit RAAF Base Pearce WGCDR Russell Page, <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Minister Joel Fitzgibbon MP, and Industrial Asset Development Project Director WA Gino Martinello turn<br />
<strong>the</strong> first sod to mark <strong>the</strong> first stage <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> base’s $142.2 million redevelopment. Photo: AB Lincoln Commane<br />
New works<br />
in progress<br />
CONSTRUCTION work on<br />
<strong>the</strong> $142.2 million stage one <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Base Redevelopment project at<br />
RAAF Base Pearce began on October<br />
28 when <strong>Defence</strong> Minister<br />
Joel Fitzgibbon MP turned <strong>the</strong> first<br />
sod during a visit to <strong>the</strong> base.<br />
The project comprises a mix <strong>of</strong><br />
new construction and <strong>the</strong> refurbishment<br />
<strong>of</strong> existing infrastructure and<br />
facilities.<br />
The scope includes upgrading<br />
<strong>the</strong> base engineering services, a new<br />
fuel farm, a new fuel quality control<br />
centre, upgrade <strong>of</strong> an aircraft maintenance<br />
hangar, a new engine runup<br />
facility, a new combined mess<br />
and new living-in accommodation<br />
facilities, upgrade <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air movements<br />
facility, and pavement works<br />
for current base air movements and<br />
for <strong>the</strong> introduction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> C-17.<br />
Upgrades for <strong>the</strong> introduction<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> C-17, valued at $12.6 million,<br />
will be delivered concurrently<br />
as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> C-17 Heavy Air Lift<br />
Infrastructure project.<br />
During <strong>the</strong> ceremonial sod-turning,<br />
Mr Fitzgibbon said that as <strong>the</strong><br />
only fully-manned military air base<br />
in Western Australia, Pearce has<br />
long been an important base for <strong>the</strong><br />
ADF.<br />
“The base is crucial to Air Force<br />
capability. It is <strong>the</strong> flying training<br />
base for <strong>the</strong> Air Force’s and Royal<br />
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Mr Fitzgibbon said.<br />
“It also supports a wide range<br />
<strong>of</strong> deployments, operations and<br />
Surveillance and Response Group<br />
activities, including support to ADF<br />
operations in <strong>the</strong> Middle East.<br />
“This redevelopment will ensure<br />
continued and efficient operation <strong>of</strong><br />
pilot training and will also enhance<br />
<strong>the</strong> operational capability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
base by providing modern purposebuilt<br />
facilities, reducing operational<br />
costs and improving <strong>the</strong> general<br />
environment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> base,” he said.<br />
Stage 1 is expected to be completed<br />
by early 2012.<br />
Across <strong>the</strong> country, RAAF Base<br />
Amberley is to receive new facilities<br />
and infrastructure to support Air<br />
Force’s introduction and operation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> F/A-18F Super Hornet.<br />
Mr Fitzgibbon announced<br />
on September 23 that <strong>the</strong> $117.1<br />
million Australian Super Hornet<br />
Facilities project has received<br />
Parliamentary approval.<br />
The project will deliver <strong>the</strong> facilities<br />
and infrastructure to support<br />
82WG’s operation <strong>of</strong> its 24 Super<br />
Hornets for at least 10 years <strong>from</strong><br />
2010.<br />
“The Super Hornet will allow<br />
Australia to implement a planned<br />
withdrawal <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> F-111,” Mr<br />
Fitzgibbon said.<br />
“Its advanced, networked weapons<br />
system will give Australia<br />
unprecedented air combat capability<br />
to meet <strong>the</strong> demands <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> modern<br />
battlespace across <strong>the</strong> spectrum<br />
<strong>of</strong> air defence, strategic land attack<br />
and maritime strike.”<br />
The new facilities are essential<br />
to support <strong>the</strong> fundamental shift in<br />
communications, security and maintenance<br />
requirements for <strong>the</strong> new<br />
aircraft and its weapons systems.<br />
Construction is planned to start<br />
early next year.<br />
IT’S A TOUCHDOWN: Work<br />
will soon be underway at RAAF<br />
Base Amberley to deliver <strong>the</strong><br />
infrastructure to support 24<br />
Super Hornets for Air Force.<br />
Photo: CPL Michael Davis
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
Musical inspiration<br />
achieves multi aims at<br />
RAAF Base East Sale<br />
By Barry Rollings<br />
COMPASSION and a little<br />
lateral thinking provided Air<br />
Force’s SGT Dave Salerman<br />
with <strong>the</strong> perfect blend for a<br />
recent highly successful musical<br />
charity fundraiser.<br />
A ground training <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
at <strong>the</strong> School <strong>of</strong> Air Warfare<br />
(SAW) at RAAF Base East<br />
Sale, SGT Salerman was<br />
moved when a young family<br />
friend succumbed to a long battle<br />
with cancer last year.<br />
“Chris had lived his life<br />
in a way that inspired many,”<br />
SGT Salerman said. “In 2006,<br />
I raised funds <strong>from</strong> within <strong>the</strong><br />
unit with <strong>the</strong> traditional ‘shave<br />
<strong>the</strong> head’ idea and <strong>the</strong> $820<br />
raised was passed on to <strong>the</strong><br />
family.<br />
“The idea for <strong>the</strong> ‘Be<br />
Inspired’ concert came <strong>from</strong> a<br />
desire to pay tribute to <strong>the</strong> life<br />
<strong>of</strong> a courageous young man,<br />
provide backing for Challenge<br />
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kids with cancer and<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir families – and at <strong>the</strong> same<br />
time indulge ano<strong>the</strong>r passion,<br />
<strong>the</strong> performing arts, especially<br />
when it involves talented youth.<br />
“Over <strong>the</strong> years, I’ve known<br />
many talented young musicians<br />
and performers. Yet opportunities<br />
for <strong>the</strong>m to perform in a<br />
concert environment are limited,”<br />
he said. “It seemed like <strong>the</strong><br />
perfect meld <strong>of</strong> some worthwhile<br />
causes.<br />
“The aim <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> night was to<br />
pay tribute to Chris, raise funds<br />
and awareness for Challenge,<br />
showcase performing and visual<br />
arts and give a ‘great’ night<br />
out for those who attended.”<br />
Included in <strong>the</strong> evening<br />
were performances by members<br />
<strong>of</strong> SAW, Kathleen McIvor<br />
and PLTOFF Juliet Urlich, as<br />
well as air traffic control <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
FLGOFF Mick Small.<br />
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Flight students had an active<br />
A three year degree with Flying & Management options<br />
involvement by volunteering<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir skills with an exhibition<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir work, as well as taking<br />
portrait style photos and video<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> evening. SAW administration<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficer Jennifer Noone<br />
also displayed some <strong>of</strong> her artwork.<br />
“The evening was a great<br />
success, with $3500 raised and<br />
a desire to ‘Be Inspired’ again<br />
next year,” SGT Salerman said.<br />
INSPIRED: ATCO FLGOFF Mick Small and RNZAF ACO student PLTOFF Juliet Urlich play<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir part at <strong>the</strong> charity concert at RAAF Base East Sale.<br />
SALES PITCH: Inset, SGT Dave Salerman in fine form as <strong>the</strong> MC. Photos: SGT Salerman<br />
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By Barry Rollings<br />
AUSTRALIA’S Federation Guard (AFG)<br />
took time out <strong>from</strong> traditional duties recently<br />
to assist in <strong>the</strong> annual Legacy Week Badge<br />
Appeal and exceeded last year’s total by more<br />
than $5000.<br />
The Guard, a tri-Service organisation that<br />
provides elite ceremonial guards both within<br />
Australia and internationally, traded formal<br />
dress and drill routines to take to <strong>the</strong> streets <strong>of</strong><br />
Canberra in September to collect an amazing<br />
$23,783.50 in donations.<br />
Last year, members raised $18,031 during<br />
Legacy Week.<br />
Legatee President Brian Edwards and chairman<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fundraising committee, Legatee<br />
Murray Vogt <strong>of</strong> Canberra Legacy, accepted <strong>the</strong><br />
donation. Both thanked <strong>the</strong> AFG for its overwhelming<br />
support and enthusiasm. Mr Edwards<br />
said he was pleasantly surprised by <strong>the</strong> generosity<br />
displayed by <strong>the</strong> Canberra community.<br />
“This year’s fundraising exceeded <strong>the</strong> 2007<br />
figure and without <strong>the</strong> efforts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ADF, this<br />
year certainty wouldn’t have been as much <strong>of</strong> a<br />
success,” Mr Edwards said.<br />
Charity organiser and AFG member BDR<br />
Brad Giles said his colleagues were excited by<br />
<strong>the</strong> opportunity.<br />
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9<br />
MONEY MATTERS: AFG’s CPL Fiona Morrison, BDR Brad Giles and LSBM Andrew<br />
Raffan present Legatees Brian Edwards and Murray Vogt with <strong>the</strong>ir $23,783.50 cheque.<br />
They raised <strong>the</strong> money <strong>from</strong> around Canberra. Photo: TPR Mark Harvey<br />
Fun raiser<br />
“It was a great feeling to give something<br />
back to <strong>the</strong> community,” BDR Giles said. “To<br />
feel like <strong>the</strong> AFG can contribute in o<strong>the</strong>r ways<br />
than strictly ceremonial occasions.”<br />
The result was pleasing for Air Force’s CPL<br />
Fiona Morrison who was collecting for <strong>the</strong> second<br />
successive appeal.<br />
“This year, we wanted to beat last year’s<br />
total and hopefully we can surpass that again in<br />
2009,” she said.<br />
“I collected at Tuggeranong Hyperdome<br />
with a group <strong>of</strong> about eight who raised <strong>the</strong> most<br />
money overall (decided on a pro-rata basis) for<br />
which we were rewarded with a couple <strong>of</strong> beers<br />
each at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day. I think we raised<br />
about $3500 in a fairly busy time as we kept on<br />
<strong>the</strong> move around <strong>the</strong> shopping centre.<br />
“People knew what we were <strong>the</strong>re for<br />
because we were in uniform and <strong>the</strong>y were<br />
happy to give.”<br />
Charity fundraising behind <strong>the</strong>m, Guard<br />
members, who had a busy schedule during <strong>the</strong><br />
Papal visit, resumed activities that included<br />
members hiking <strong>the</strong> Kokoda Track, contingents<br />
deploying to France, Singapore and Brunei,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> precision drill team being involved in<br />
Australian Football League grand final week in<br />
Melbourne.
Australia-wide services<br />
DHA provides face-to-face service in <strong>the</strong> vicinity <strong>of</strong> most<br />
major military establishments around <strong>the</strong> country. DHA<br />
staff are always ready to help, and look forward to continuing<br />
to provide <strong>the</strong> highest levels <strong>of</strong> service to ADF members and<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir families. If you require support at any time during your<br />
tenancy or relocation, please contact one <strong>of</strong> our Hotlines:<br />
• Relocation Hotline - 1800 626 698<br />
• Maintenance Hotline - 1300 366 615<br />
•<br />
Customer Service Hotline - 1800 249 711<br />
look to <strong>the</strong> future, value <strong>the</strong> past<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Housing Australia is 20 years old. From humble beginnings in<br />
1988, we have become Australia’s foremost provider <strong>of</strong> quality housing<br />
to Australian <strong>Defence</strong> personnel, and <strong>of</strong>fer unrivalled investment property<br />
conditions for investors. <strong>Defence</strong> Housing Australia, helping make houses a<br />
home, for you and your family.<br />
www.dha.gov.au<br />
DHA...20 years <strong>of</strong> commitment to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Australian <strong>Defence</strong> Force<br />
Introducing DHA’s newest stakeholder<br />
In consultation with <strong>Defence</strong> Families Australia<br />
and members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> community, DHA has<br />
produced a children’s storybook and accompanying<br />
activity book for <strong>Defence</strong> children starring our hairy<br />
new four-legged star, Rex D. Dog.<br />
Aimed at children aged four to eight, <strong>the</strong> storybook,<br />
titled ‘Let’s get moving’, is written <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
perspective <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> family pet and follows Rex and his<br />
family; Mum, Dad, Jenny, Mark and James, as <strong>the</strong>y<br />
go through <strong>the</strong> relocation process.<br />
With DHA managing 25,000 ADF relocations<br />
annually, it is essential that ADF families are<br />
receiving <strong>the</strong> solutions, services and support <strong>the</strong>y<br />
DHA’s commitment to providing Australian<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Force (ADF) members with quality<br />
service in arranging <strong>the</strong> smooth relocation<br />
<strong>of</strong> members with a diverse range <strong>of</strong> housing<br />
solutions. DHA’s commitment meeting<br />
members lifestyles and families needs has<br />
not changed to 20 years.<br />
DHA manages 17,000 residences across<br />
Australia. Twenty years ago, some <strong>Defence</strong><br />
homes had no heating or insulation, and<br />
it was not uncommon for members to<br />
have to carry curtains, pieces <strong>of</strong> carpet<br />
and o<strong>the</strong>r fittings <strong>from</strong> one posting to <strong>the</strong> next ...<br />
but <strong>the</strong>se days are long gone.<br />
Today, DHA’s homes are modern, meet <strong>the</strong><br />
standard <strong>of</strong> quality, amenity, and location<br />
required by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Department</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> and<br />
most importantly, are <strong>of</strong> community standard<br />
– <strong>the</strong> same standard enjoyed by members’<br />
friends and families. Houses now commonly<br />
have lounge, dining and family rooms, ensuites,<br />
double lock-up garages with internal access,<br />
and covered outdoor patio areas. DHA regularly<br />
upgrades housing stock each year and replaces<br />
some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> older homes with newly constructed<br />
ones. In <strong>the</strong> acquisition and development <strong>of</strong><br />
property, we use local materials, suppliers<br />
need during this time. While many families cope well<br />
with moving to a new home, children are particularly<br />
susceptible to common doubts and anxieties during this<br />
time. Where will I live? Will I make new friends? Can Rex<br />
come with us?<br />
The Rex storybook and activity book are free to all<br />
relocating <strong>Defence</strong> families with children between <strong>the</strong><br />
ages <strong>of</strong> four and eight. Order a copy today by completing<br />
an order form, available at your local Housing<br />
Management Centre (HMC) or online at<br />
www.rex.dha.gov.au<br />
Rex also loves fan mail and will reply to any children who<br />
write to him!<br />
and contractors wherever possible. DHA arranges<br />
approximately 25,000 relocations for ADF members<br />
and <strong>the</strong>ir families each year. DHA understands that<br />
with <strong>the</strong>ir loved ones away overseas this can be a<br />
particularly stressful time for <strong>Defence</strong> families. DHA<br />
will try to do everything it can to make sure things<br />
are hassle-free on <strong>the</strong> home front.<br />
DHA does this by providing face-to-face service in<br />
<strong>the</strong> vicinity <strong>of</strong> most major military establishments<br />
around <strong>the</strong> country, and have more than 680 staff<br />
positioned in Housing Management Centres (HMCs)<br />
across Australia. Many DHA staff are <strong>Defence</strong><br />
spouses and understand <strong>the</strong> pressures and issues<br />
faced by ADF members and <strong>the</strong>ir families. DHA<br />
has also improved its systems to make it easier<br />
for members to access information. In 1988, <strong>the</strong><br />
Commodore 64 was <strong>the</strong> world’s favourite PC and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Internet was still <strong>the</strong> stuff <strong>of</strong> sci-fi movies.<br />
In 2008, members can communicate with <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
Relocation and Housing Consultants by email<br />
<strong>from</strong> many miles away, complete <strong>the</strong>ir relocation<br />
paperwork online and even search for <strong>the</strong>ir next<br />
home using DHA’s ‘HomeFind’ online search tool.<br />
The past 20 years has been a learning and growing<br />
journey for DHA and its people, and we look<br />
forward to continuing to provide <strong>the</strong> very highest<br />
levels <strong>of</strong> service to ADF members and <strong>the</strong>ir families.
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
Call Fleet Network on<br />
1300 738 601<br />
News<br />
Reserved for bosses<br />
NSW executives learn <strong>the</strong> ropes<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir reservist employees<br />
By Michael Brooke<br />
AIR Force Reservist FLTLT Anrew<br />
Blair <strong>from</strong> No. 22 (City <strong>of</strong> Sydney)<br />
Squadron enjoyed some unique<br />
role reversal when his civilian employers<br />
participated in Exercise Excutive<br />
Stretch (EES) recently.<br />
FLTLT Blair – a logistician who has<br />
recorded eight years full-time service<br />
nd three years in <strong>the</strong> Reserve – had<br />
he opportunity to ‘bark instructions’<br />
t his civilian employers, Shaun Bailey<br />
nd Robert Regan, as <strong>the</strong>y negotiated<br />
he gruelling Army obstacle course at<br />
olsworthy Barracks.<br />
“It was all in good fun,” FLTLT<br />
lair said.<br />
Mr Bailey and Mr Regan employ<br />
LTLT Blair as a junior lawyer with<br />
egal firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth.<br />
The partners were among a group<br />
f 30 NSW employers who participated<br />
in EES with <strong>Defence</strong> Reservists<br />
rom October 18-19.<br />
FLTLT Blair said EES was<br />
esigned to introduce employers to <strong>the</strong><br />
kills gained in <strong>the</strong> military that also<br />
have benefits for <strong>the</strong> civilian workplace.<br />
EES allowed employers to gain<br />
better understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> leadership<br />
hallenges and skills <strong>the</strong>ir employees<br />
evelop during military service.<br />
“EES was designed to expose<br />
BULLETIN BOARD<br />
Air Force Band<br />
November 13 – The band will send a piper to<br />
support <strong>the</strong> RAAF Base Richmond Officers’ Mess<br />
dining-in night.<br />
November 14 – Organist LAC Brendon Lukin will<br />
give a lunch-time recital at St. Michael’s Church,<br />
Collins Street in Melbourne.<br />
November 15 – The Sydney Detachment will<br />
support <strong>the</strong> RAAF Base Glenbrook Spring Ball.<br />
The Ceremonial Band will march in <strong>the</strong> Myer<br />
Christmas Parade through <strong>the</strong> Melbourne CBD<br />
<strong>from</strong> 11am.<br />
November 16 – The Sydney Detachment will<br />
provide background music for <strong>the</strong> CDR-ALG<br />
garden party at RAAF Base Richmond <strong>from</strong> 2pm.<br />
November 16 – Force 10 will provide musical<br />
support for <strong>the</strong> AESSO Christmas Function at <strong>the</strong><br />
Melbourne Aquarium.<br />
November 19 – The Ceremonial Band will support<br />
<strong>the</strong> 1RTU graduation parade at RAAF Base Wagga<br />
at 11am.<br />
November 21 – Band chamber groups Catalina<br />
COMPETITION WINNERS<br />
The winners <strong>of</strong> Tony Park’s book, The Predator,<br />
(book competition <strong>from</strong> October 16 edition) are:<br />
SQNLDR Lee Rider, PLTOFF Stephen Gibbins, SGT<br />
Paul Richardson, CPO Gordon Lucas and PTE Paul<br />
Stephenson.<br />
employers to <strong>the</strong> invaluable skills<br />
gained in <strong>the</strong> military that also have<br />
benefits for <strong>the</strong> civilian workplace,”<br />
he said.<br />
“This provided <strong>the</strong> employers with<br />
a unique opportunity to see <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Reservists conduct military construction,<br />
hydrographic survey and civilmilitary<br />
cooperation throughout <strong>the</strong><br />
weekend.”<br />
The employers tackled a range<br />
<strong>of</strong> tasks and leadership challenges,<br />
including <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> basic infantry tactics<br />
and ADF equipment such as night<br />
vision goggles and navigation tools.<br />
The employers also tested <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
fitness and endurance over an Army<br />
obstacle course under <strong>the</strong> supervision<br />
and guidance <strong>of</strong> Air Force and Army<br />
Reservists.<br />
Parliamentary Secretary for<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Support Mike Kelly MP said<br />
during <strong>the</strong> exercise employers experienced<br />
first-hand <strong>the</strong> advantages <strong>of</strong><br />
employing reservists.<br />
“This experience was a fantastic<br />
opportunity to witness <strong>the</strong> benefits that<br />
Reserve service can have in <strong>the</strong> civilian<br />
workplace,” Dr Kelly said.<br />
“EES highlights <strong>the</strong> skills reservists<br />
gain <strong>from</strong> being in <strong>the</strong> ADF and<br />
how those skills can benefit civilian<br />
employers.”<br />
and Air Power Brass will give a free lunch-time<br />
concert at St. John’s, Southgate <strong>from</strong> 12.30pm.<br />
November 23 – The Ceremonial Band will support<br />
<strong>the</strong> No. 22 (City <strong>of</strong> Sydney) Squadron inaugural<br />
graduation parade at RAAF Base Richmond <strong>from</strong><br />
1.30pm.<br />
PCK Flying Club reunion<br />
Former Air Force members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Point Cook<br />
Flying Club <strong>from</strong> 1971-1974 are holding a reunion<br />
at <strong>the</strong> existing flying club on March 20-22, 2009.<br />
For more information, contact Glenn<br />
Conrad on 0488 747 737 or email: herken.<br />
about@bigpond.com<br />
RAAF Police research<br />
Any former RAAF security police members who<br />
served in WWII, BCOF Japan, Malaya 1956-1975<br />
or Vietnam are requested to assist in research into<br />
RAAF Police history.<br />
Contact SGT Antony Buckingham at email:<br />
antony.buckingham@defence.gov.au or mail:<br />
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ROLE REVERSAL: From left, Shaun Bailey and Robert Regan <strong>from</strong> leading law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth<br />
negotiate <strong>the</strong> gruelling Army obstacle course at Holwsorthy under <strong>the</strong> watchful eye <strong>of</strong> 22SQN’s FLTLT Andrew<br />
Blair. Part <strong>of</strong> a group <strong>of</strong> 30 employers who participated in <strong>the</strong> “fantastic opportunity”, <strong>the</strong> two civilian executives<br />
joined <strong>the</strong>ir employee to learn about <strong>the</strong> qualities <strong>of</strong> reservists during <strong>the</strong> recent exercise Executive Stretch.<br />
Photo: Michael Brooke<br />
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12 News AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
FAST RUN: A 6SQN F-111 flies low over Surfers Paradise during <strong>the</strong> Indy<br />
300. Below, FLGOFF Mark Mohr-Bell <strong>from</strong> 79SQN gets <strong>the</strong> thumbs up <strong>from</strong><br />
Merv McDonald <strong>from</strong> Toowoomba during <strong>the</strong> race. Photos: SGT Rob Mitchell<br />
On track at Indy<br />
AN ERA drew to a close on <strong>the</strong><br />
Gold Coast on October 26 when an<br />
F-111 <strong>from</strong> RAAF Base Amberley<br />
performed what will probably be<br />
<strong>the</strong> second-last fly-past <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> annual<br />
Indy 300 V8 Supercar race.<br />
The aircraft thrilled race-goers<br />
as it made five low-level passes along<br />
<strong>the</strong> main race straight and beach,<br />
in front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> high-rise apartments.<br />
They included a slow pass with wings<br />
extended and landing gear down, a<br />
fast pass and <strong>the</strong>n a low-level run<br />
along <strong>the</strong> beach.<br />
The highlight was <strong>the</strong> famous<br />
‘dump and burn’ run, which uses<br />
<strong>the</strong> equivalent <strong>of</strong> a tank-full <strong>of</strong> fuel<br />
in a Supercar’s tank in about four<br />
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REV IT UP A TREAT: The annual <strong>Defence</strong> Christmas Treat is on at RAAF Base Richmond <strong>from</strong> November<br />
28-29, and for <strong>the</strong> first time will feature a special interest auto show displaying classic cars. Pictured is<br />
Santa and his three helpers at a former Christmas Treat at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Photo: Mike Lucas<br />
Xmas royale<br />
at Richmond<br />
MEMBERS <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Australian<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Organisation (ADF and<br />
civilian), cadets, contractors who<br />
work in <strong>the</strong> Sydney region and<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir families can expect a ‘Royale’<br />
show at <strong>the</strong> 2008 <strong>Defence</strong> (Sydney<br />
Region) Christmas Treat.<br />
The event will be held at RAAF<br />
Base Richmond on November 28<br />
and 29.<br />
FLGOFF Darren Gallagher<br />
<strong>from</strong> RAAF Base Glenbrook said<br />
<strong>the</strong> event this year would have two<br />
exciting new attractions.<br />
“Australia’s premier circus,<br />
Circus Royale, will headline this<br />
year’s event, and on Saturday, we<br />
will hold <strong>Defence</strong>’s first ‘Special<br />
Interest Autos Show and Shine’.<br />
This will be a showcase <strong>of</strong> classic<br />
cars and we are inviting anyone with<br />
a car <strong>of</strong> interest to bring it along,”<br />
FLGOFF Gallagher said.<br />
“<strong>All</strong> <strong>the</strong> favourites <strong>from</strong> last<br />
year are back as well. There will be<br />
dodgem cars, mini ferris wheel and<br />
carousel, jungle challenge, apple<br />
ride and music trip. There will also<br />
BIG TOP: Circus Royale will be<br />
<strong>the</strong> feature attraction at <strong>the</strong> Treat<br />
this year. Photo: CPL Bill Louys<br />
be a Jurassic Park, Tumble Town, an<br />
inflatable giraffe and rock climbing<br />
for <strong>the</strong> older kids.”<br />
On a more educational level,<br />
‘Healthy Harold’ will be onsite with<br />
a portable class room while ‘Fizzics<br />
Education’ will enable <strong>the</strong> children<br />
to explore science in a fun environment.<br />
Air Force and Army will be<br />
active in <strong>the</strong> air as well with an<br />
aerobatics display by a PC-9, a<br />
C-130, helicopters and parachute-<br />
jumping. Also, airborne will be<br />
model aircraft.<br />
The treat will run <strong>from</strong> 3pm to<br />
9pm on <strong>the</strong> Friday, with <strong>the</strong> circus<br />
starting at 6pm. On Saturday, <strong>the</strong><br />
treat will run <strong>from</strong> 9am to 9pm with<br />
circus shows at 10am, 2pm and<br />
6pm.<br />
FLGOFF Gallagher said that<br />
tickets for <strong>the</strong> Treat are $12, which<br />
includes admission to <strong>the</strong> circus and<br />
unlimited rides. Infants under two<br />
years <strong>of</strong> age are free, provided <strong>the</strong>y<br />
sit on a parent’s lap.<br />
He advised people to purchase<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir tickets as soon as possible.<br />
“Seating is limited to 745 for<br />
each circus show and tickets will<br />
sell out quickly,” he said.<br />
Tickets can be purchased <strong>from</strong><br />
any DEFCREDIT branch in NSW<br />
or <strong>the</strong> ACT.<br />
To register for <strong>the</strong> ‘Special Interest<br />
Autos Show and Shine’ or for<br />
more information, contact FLGOFF<br />
Darren Gallagher at email: darren.<br />
gallagher1@defence.gov.au<br />
hmaS14552
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008 News 13<br />
Graduation ends era<br />
By PLTOFF Brad Duyzer<br />
A CHAPTER <strong>of</strong> Air Force educaion<br />
history closed on September 25<br />
hen six students graduated <strong>from</strong> No.<br />
32 Basic Navigators’ Course.<br />
The course, which began at <strong>the</strong><br />
School <strong>of</strong> Air Warfare (SAW) at RAAF<br />
Base East Sale on July 16 last year, is <strong>the</strong><br />
last under <strong>the</strong> old curriculum and its students<br />
graduated as Air Combat Officers<br />
(ACOs), not navigators.<br />
School CO WGCDR Jake Campbell<br />
said it was important to acknowledge<br />
<strong>the</strong> vital role navigators played in <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force over many years.<br />
“The success <strong>of</strong> operations in <strong>the</strong> various<br />
<strong>the</strong>atres <strong>of</strong> WWII, <strong>the</strong> Vietnam War<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Middle East were in no small<br />
measure due to <strong>the</strong> contribution <strong>of</strong> Air<br />
orce navigators,” he said.<br />
After completing <strong>the</strong> visul,<br />
instrument, system navigation<br />
nd search and rescue phases, <strong>the</strong><br />
ourse was divided into tactical and<br />
maritime streams for C-130H and<br />
P-3C conversion respectively. Then,<br />
ollowing deployments to RAAF Bases<br />
dinburgh and Amberley and New<br />
ealand, <strong>the</strong> course culminated in <strong>the</strong><br />
tudents’ ‘Wings’ deployment to RAAF<br />
ase Townsville for two weeks <strong>of</strong> intenive<br />
role flying.<br />
The graduates were led on to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
raduation parade by course commandr<br />
FLTLT Duncan Flemington, where<br />
reviewing <strong>of</strong>ficer AVM John Harvey preented<br />
<strong>the</strong>m with <strong>the</strong>ir ACO brevets.<br />
“[The graduation] marked <strong>the</strong> end<br />
f one phase and <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
next for <strong>the</strong>se new aviators,” FLTLT<br />
lemington said.<br />
“They faced many varied challenges<br />
uring <strong>the</strong>ir time at SAW, yet always<br />
kept <strong>the</strong>ir focus, sense <strong>of</strong> humour, drive<br />
nd perseverance. The character and<br />
eamwork <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> course was a highlight<br />
f <strong>the</strong>ir time here, and this will continue<br />
o serve <strong>the</strong>m well in <strong>the</strong>ir new roles.”<br />
“We had a great time on course<br />
because we worked as a team and all<br />
helped each o<strong>the</strong>r out,” graduate<br />
FLGOFF Melanie Burns said. “The<br />
friendships we acquired will last us for<br />
a lifetime.”<br />
PLTOFF Brad Duyzer has posted<br />
to 285SQN RAAF Base Richmond<br />
TAP-3’s total<br />
makeover<br />
Award winners<br />
Hawker Pacific Navigation Trophy<br />
(Dux): PLTOFF Brad Duyzer<br />
BAE Systems Highest Academic<br />
Achievement: FLGOFF Trisha Kelly<br />
BAE Systems Best Practical<br />
Navigator: FLGOFF Melanie Burns<br />
Wellington Shire Council<br />
Leadership Trophy: PLTOFF<br />
Daniel Venn<br />
Sale RSL Trophy for Best <strong>All</strong>-<br />
Round Sportsman: PLTOFF Matt<br />
Nanda (RNZAF)<br />
for C130H conversion, while FLGOFF<br />
Burns, FLGOFF Trisha Kelly, PLTOFF<br />
Anthony Bellvè and PLTOFF Daniel Venn<br />
have posted to RAAF Base Edinburgh for<br />
AP-3C conversion at 292SQN.<br />
PLTOFF Matt Nanda, RNZAF, has<br />
returned to 40SQN in New Zealand for<br />
C-130 conversion.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> course signified <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong><br />
an era, a new breed <strong>of</strong> aviators will graduate<br />
<strong>from</strong> SAW to meet <strong>the</strong> demand for<br />
future Air Force sustainability requirements.<br />
“While it is important to acknowledge<br />
<strong>the</strong> past, it is also important that<br />
Air Force remains relevant and meets <strong>the</strong><br />
needs <strong>of</strong> future platforms and weapon<br />
systems,” WGCDR Campbell said. “That<br />
is why Air Force has created <strong>the</strong> ACO<br />
category and why SAW has developed<br />
and implemented <strong>the</strong> ACO course.”<br />
One <strong>of</strong> 92WG’s former TAP-3 (Training Australian P-3) aircraft is cut up<br />
for scrap metal by civilian contractors at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Air Force<br />
previously operated three TAP-3s as trainer/transport aircraft before<br />
<strong>the</strong> introduction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AP-3C variant. The TAP-3s provided valuable<br />
continuation flying training to <strong>the</strong> Orion pilots before being withdrawn<br />
<strong>from</strong> service in 2004. Photo: SGT Errol Jones<br />
HISTORIC FINISH: Above, students <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> last SAW course to graduate under <strong>the</strong> old navigator curriculum,<br />
<strong>from</strong> left, PLTOFF Anthony Bellvè, FLGOFF Melanie Burns, PLTOFF Brad Duyzer, PLTOFF Daniel Venn,<br />
FLGOFF Trisha Kelly and PLTOFF Matt Nanda (RNZAF). Photo: CPL Col Dadd<br />
THAT’S ALL FOLKS: Below left, <strong>the</strong> course patch featuring Warner Bros cartoon character Porky Pig in<br />
navigator’s flying uniform, complete with <strong>the</strong> old navigator’s brevet.<br />
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AIR FORCE November 13, 2008 15<br />
Riding <strong>the</strong> iron highway<br />
Air Force joined five o<strong>the</strong>r nations in Malaysia to practise modern<br />
day warfare in Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima, reports FLTLT Jaimie Abbott.<br />
The South China Sea was<br />
an ‘iron highway’ as thousands<br />
<strong>of</strong> ships lined <strong>the</strong><br />
ocean during Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong><br />
Lima 2008.<br />
<strong>Bersama</strong> Lima, a Five Power<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Arrangement (FPDA) exercise,<br />
was held in <strong>the</strong> seaways and<br />
airspace around <strong>the</strong> South China<br />
Sea <strong>from</strong> October 8-24.<br />
The warships were needles in <strong>the</strong><br />
haystack, set among hundreds <strong>of</strong><br />
fishing vessels and merchant ships.<br />
Flying above, <strong>the</strong> AP-3C sorted<br />
through <strong>the</strong> major players in a modern<br />
day war game <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> Malaysian<br />
Peninsula.<br />
As sonobuoys were released<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> Orion and plunged into<br />
<strong>the</strong> ocean, <strong>the</strong>y became <strong>the</strong> eyes and<br />
ears for <strong>the</strong> 10SQN crew aboard <strong>the</strong><br />
aircraft. Before long, enemies and<br />
allies were revealed, and so began<br />
<strong>the</strong> international exercise.<br />
Sharing <strong>the</strong> skies and seaways<br />
were three F-111s <strong>from</strong> 6SQN,<br />
which were based alongside <strong>the</strong> AP-<br />
3C at <strong>the</strong> Royal Malaysian Air Force<br />
(RMAF) Base at Butterworth.<br />
The Amberley-based aircraft<br />
conducted maritime strike activity<br />
against participating ships.<br />
In neighbouring Singapore, more<br />
than 100 personnel <strong>from</strong> RAAF Base<br />
Williamtown were based at <strong>the</strong> Paya<br />
Lebar Air Base (PLAB), along with<br />
six F/A-18s <strong>from</strong> 77SQN.<br />
The Royal Australian Navy’s<br />
HMA Ships Anzac, Sirius, Yarra and<br />
Norman joined ano<strong>the</strong>r 16 warships<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> participating countries.<br />
A Clearance Diving Team and<br />
naval gunfire specialists also contributed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> exercise.<br />
The two-week FPDA exercise<br />
presented a different challenge, scenario<br />
and environment every day<br />
and night as <strong>the</strong> Aussies worked<br />
with ground, sea and air assets <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> United Kingdom, New Zealand,<br />
Malaysia and Singapore to defeat <strong>the</strong><br />
GOOD GEAR: Fast-jet pilots <strong>from</strong><br />
1, 6 and 77SQN’s joined <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
counterparts <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK, Malaysia,<br />
Singapore and New Zealand to<br />
participate in <strong>the</strong> major maritime<br />
exercise. Photo: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
fictitious country – <strong>the</strong> ‘Democratic<br />
Republic <strong>of</strong> Plainchants’.<br />
92WG Detachment Commander<br />
SQNLDR Lee Read said <strong>the</strong> 10SQN<br />
OPSOs: Above <strong>from</strong> left, 10SQN’s SQNLDR<br />
Michael Johnston and 92WG’s FLTLT Marty<br />
Young and PLTOFF Dimitrios Goutsikas discuss<br />
an exercise mission.<br />
MEDIC: Left, LACW Phoebe Hope <strong>from</strong> No. 3<br />
Combat Support Hospital draws blood <strong>from</strong> a<br />
patient during <strong>the</strong> exercise.<br />
WHAT SHIP?: Below, 10SQN’s FSGT Leslie Hall<br />
photographs a suspicious warship <strong>from</strong> his Orion<br />
during an exercise sortie. Photos: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
crew was given <strong>the</strong> opportunity to<br />
test a wide variety <strong>of</strong> skills.<br />
“The Orion really showed <strong>of</strong>f<br />
its versatility in a demanding maritime<br />
environment during Exercise<br />
<strong>Bersama</strong> Lima,” SQNLDR Read<br />
said.<br />
“It was used for surface surveillance,<br />
anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine<br />
warfare and strike direction,<br />
so it tested <strong>the</strong> crew in a number <strong>of</strong><br />
roles.”<br />
The exercise was supported by<br />
324 Combat Support Squadron<br />
(324CSS), while C-130s and C-17s<br />
provided strategic lift and logistics<br />
support to <strong>the</strong> deployed forces.<br />
CO 6SQN WGCDR Stephen<br />
Meredith said he was impressed with<br />
<strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism and ability <strong>of</strong> his<br />
deployed team.<br />
“The FPDA exercises provide an<br />
invaluable experience as we operate<br />
in an unfamiliar environment<br />
with challenging wea<strong>the</strong>r,” WGCDR<br />
Meredith said.<br />
“The level <strong>of</strong> support gained<br />
<strong>from</strong> 324CSS has also been excellent.”<br />
CO 77SQN WGCDR Timothy<br />
Churchill said his squadron had<br />
been looking forward to <strong>the</strong> exercise<br />
for many months.<br />
“I was pleased with <strong>the</strong> progress<br />
everyone has made,” he said.<br />
“From a flying perspective,<br />
77SQN has met all its exercise objectives.”<br />
10SQN Crew 2 captain FLTLT<br />
Andrew Lynch said <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima<br />
was an excellent opportunity to<br />
refresh deployment techniques.<br />
“The aircrew were exposed to <strong>the</strong><br />
challenges <strong>of</strong> operating away <strong>from</strong><br />
our home base.<br />
“It was ideal to test our maritime<br />
and air combat skills,” FLTLT<br />
Lynch said.<br />
Signed in 1971, <strong>the</strong> FPDA represents<br />
more than 30 years <strong>of</strong> cooperation<br />
between <strong>the</strong> five participating<br />
countries.<br />
SWAPPING NOTES: Above, 77SQN F/A-18 pilot<br />
FLGOFF Farzan Kalantary (left) compares squadron<br />
roles with 1SQN F-111 pilot FLGOFF Vlad Bismark at<br />
RMAF Kuantan during <strong>the</strong> exercise.<br />
FILL ‘ER UP: Right, armaments technicians <strong>from</strong><br />
82WG load external fuel tanks onto an F-111 at RMAF<br />
Base Butterworth. Photos: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
FLAVOURS OF THE ORIENT: Above <strong>from</strong> left, 10SQN’s<br />
SGT Mat<strong>the</strong>w Budd and FLTLT Adam Clarke prepare to enjoy<br />
traditional Malaysian cuisine. Photo: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
TO SERVE AND PROTECT: Above, RAAF security police FLTLT Jerry Nair (right)<br />
and SGT Nui Hodges maintain protection <strong>of</strong> a 10SQN AP-3C and o<strong>the</strong>r assets at<br />
Butterworth during <strong>the</strong> exercise.<br />
WELL-CLEANED: Left, 6SQN’s LAC Philip Bowyer-bower cleans <strong>the</strong> main landing<br />
gear wheel well <strong>of</strong> an F-111 after a mission. Photos: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
PLANE VIEW: From left,<br />
LT Siti Aminah, KAPT<br />
Noor Hayusri and CO<br />
44WG DET Amberley<br />
SQNLDR Paul Howard<br />
watch <strong>the</strong> skies <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Air Traffic Control Tower at<br />
RMAF Base Butterworth.<br />
Photo: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
ON A ROLL: A 6SQN<br />
F-111 heads out on a<br />
mission <strong>from</strong> Butterworth<br />
during <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima.<br />
Photo: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
SURVIVAL SKILLS: Above, 10SQN crew, WOFF Steven Murnik (left) and<br />
FLTLT Marija Jovanovich, practise for an emergency ditching aboard an<br />
AP-3C while en route to <strong>the</strong> exercise. Photo: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
LEAVING HOME: Left, 6SQN supplier CPL Liz Espinosa packs a flyaway<br />
kit in prearation for <strong>the</strong> squadron’s F-111 deployment to RMAF Butterworth<br />
for participation in Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima. The exercise provided <strong>the</strong><br />
squadron with invaluable experience. Photo: AC Benjamin Evans
DHA...building on our military heritage<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Navy’s best kept secrets lies close to<br />
Drummoyne, and 300 metres west <strong>of</strong> Cockatoo<br />
Island in <strong>the</strong> middle <strong>of</strong> Sydney Harbour. Spectacle<br />
Island is <strong>the</strong> oldest naval storage depot in Australia<br />
and has been used to store armaments and<br />
explosives since 1826.<br />
In 1988, when <strong>Defence</strong> Housing Australia (DHA)<br />
took over care and maintenance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> property,<br />
it was found to be in a poor state <strong>of</strong> repair. As <strong>the</strong><br />
building was listed with <strong>the</strong> Australian Heritage<br />
Commission and <strong>the</strong> National Trust, DHA undertook<br />
major restoration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> residence, completing <strong>the</strong><br />
project in 1995.<br />
Dominating <strong>the</strong> Harbour side <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> island, <strong>the</strong><br />
house was originally constructed in single storey<br />
in 1865 as <strong>the</strong> Commandant’s residence. During<br />
<strong>the</strong> 1890s, a second storey was added. The house<br />
has an enclosed two-storey verandah on <strong>the</strong><br />
eastern elevation and a single storey verandah on<br />
<strong>the</strong> north. The building continues to be used as a<br />
residence, and currently houses a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Royal Australian Navy.<br />
DHA has recently completed fur<strong>the</strong>r restoration<br />
work at Spectacle Island works included significant<br />
structural repair to <strong>the</strong> sandstone walls <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Commander’s residence, a complete internal and<br />
external repaint, new carpet, repolished timber<br />
floors and o<strong>the</strong>r minor works to <strong>the</strong> residence.<br />
The island is also home to some magnificent<br />
Georgian-style sandstone buildings built in<br />
<strong>the</strong> 1860s to provide facilities for <strong>the</strong> British<br />
Pacific Far East Fleet, <strong>the</strong>n using Sydney<br />
as headquarters for its Australian Station.<br />
Massively built <strong>of</strong> solid sandstone, <strong>the</strong>se<br />
specialised structures are good examples<br />
<strong>of</strong> built forms favoured by military engineers in <strong>the</strong><br />
Victorian era.<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r structures on <strong>the</strong> island <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> same era<br />
include <strong>the</strong> powder magazine, small arms store,<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice and guard room, petty <strong>of</strong>ficers’ quarters and a<br />
filling room, shell store, gun carriage shed and gun<br />
cotton, fireworks and torpedo stores, cable tanks,<br />
laboratory, boat shed, recreation room, bathing<br />
place and various o<strong>the</strong>r stores.<br />
Today <strong>the</strong> storage area is largely taken over as a<br />
repository for <strong>the</strong> original marks and patterns <strong>of</strong><br />
naval equipment and for <strong>the</strong> memorabilia <strong>of</strong> every<br />
former ship <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Navy. Those privileged to tour it<br />
are treated to a splendid display <strong>of</strong> Australian naval<br />
history.<br />
DHA is proud to be <strong>the</strong> keepers <strong>of</strong> this significant<br />
historical property in <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> Australia’s most<br />
beautiful harbour.<br />
Restoration project ensures<br />
properties retain <strong>the</strong>ir charm<br />
DHA manages more than 70 <strong>Defence</strong> properties that are ei<strong>the</strong>r heritage<br />
listed or part <strong>of</strong> a heritage precinct. Toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>Defence</strong>, DHA has<br />
implemented a Heritage Management Framework that enables it to care<br />
for <strong>the</strong>se properties with due regard to <strong>the</strong>ir heritage value.<br />
The ongoing management <strong>of</strong> heritage properties requires <strong>the</strong> preparation<br />
<strong>of</strong> conservation and heritage management plans to assist <strong>Defence</strong><br />
and DHA to meet <strong>the</strong>ir obligations under <strong>the</strong> Environmental Protection<br />
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The most significant projects<br />
undertaken in recent years include Spectacle Island, Angelsea Barracks,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Royal Military College Duntroon.<br />
ANGELSEA BARRACKS<br />
Established in <strong>the</strong> early 1800s, Anglesea Barracks is <strong>the</strong> oldest military<br />
establishment still occupied by <strong>the</strong> Australian <strong>Defence</strong> Force (ADF). The<br />
initial role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Barracks was to provide military security for <strong>the</strong> convict<br />
settlement and <strong>the</strong> civilian population within <strong>the</strong> penal colony.<br />
Major heritage upgrades were undertaken at Anglesea Barracks, Hobart.<br />
This involved <strong>the</strong> restoration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commander’s residence (<strong>the</strong><br />
former hospital) and <strong>the</strong> original Married Quarters. The replacement<br />
<strong>of</strong> materials, such as pressed metal ceilings, brickwork and stairs,<br />
were closely matched to <strong>the</strong> original in order to retain <strong>the</strong> colonial style<br />
architecture.<br />
THE ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGE DUNTROON<br />
‘Shappere Lodge’ is one <strong>of</strong> several homes to have been restored by<br />
DHA as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> heritage program at Duntroon in Canberra. The stone<br />
house was built in <strong>the</strong> 1860s and extended in 1913. The most recent<br />
work has seen <strong>the</strong> residence receive a linked extension <strong>of</strong> a master<br />
bedroom and ensuite. While <strong>the</strong> builders took great care to retain and<br />
restore <strong>the</strong> most original elements, o<strong>the</strong>r works were carried out to<br />
provide a more modern home and additional comfort for ADF families.<br />
These works included a new kitchen, an upgrade to <strong>the</strong> main bathroom,<br />
and an internal repaint. Work will continue at Duntroon until mid 2009,<br />
with a fur<strong>the</strong>r three houses scheduled for restoration.
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
New pilot’s<br />
balloon ride<br />
By FLGOFF Nicholas<br />
O’Connor<br />
WHEN FLGOFF Melinda Russell<br />
joined <strong>the</strong> Air Force four years<br />
ago, she had visions <strong>of</strong> flying jets,<br />
travelling <strong>the</strong> world and fulfilling<br />
childhood goals <strong>of</strong> serving her<br />
country.<br />
Not in her “wildest dreams” did<br />
she think she would be travelling<br />
<strong>the</strong> country as an integral member <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Central Flying School’s Balloon<br />
Flight, located at No. 28 (City <strong>of</strong><br />
Canberra) Squadron.<br />
FLGOFF Russell, 22, <strong>from</strong> Mt<br />
Tyson near Toowoomba, said living<br />
close to Oakey Army Base and<br />
RAAF Base Amberley as a child<br />
sparked her interest in flying.<br />
“Some <strong>of</strong> my memories as a kid<br />
were hearing <strong>the</strong> regular buzz <strong>of</strong> aircraft<br />
in <strong>the</strong> skies and travelling to<br />
Amberley to see <strong>the</strong> planes,” she<br />
said.<br />
“I was a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cadets<br />
during high school and after completing<br />
Year 12 at Pittsworth High<br />
chool, I joined <strong>the</strong> Air Force.<br />
“I received a flying scholarship<br />
hrough <strong>the</strong> cadets and completed<br />
0 hours <strong>of</strong> flying before applying<br />
o <strong>the</strong> Air Force as a pilot during<br />
Photograph © Dominique Gonod.<br />
WELCOME ABOARD: New pilot FLGOFF Melinda Russell didn’t<br />
expect to be starting her flying career with <strong>the</strong> Air Force balloon crew,<br />
but has enjoyed <strong>the</strong> experience while she waits for <strong>the</strong> next Caribou<br />
operational conversion course. Photo: FLGOFF Nicholas O’Connor<br />
HOT AIR: Left, <strong>the</strong> balloon te<strong>the</strong>red in Canberra. Photo: AB Jo Dilorenzo<br />
my final year at high school. I have<br />
had a keen interest in aviation and<br />
specifically military aviation since a<br />
young age.”<br />
She said a delay in her posting to<br />
38SQN provided an opportunity to<br />
spend nine months with <strong>the</strong> Balloon<br />
Flight as one <strong>of</strong> three pilots.<br />
“After spending three years<br />
studying a Bachelor <strong>of</strong> Technology<br />
(Aeronautical Engineering), I moved<br />
to Tamworth and completed Basic<br />
Flying Training School in August<br />
2007,” FLGOFF Russell said.<br />
“I moved to Perth in November<br />
2007 to begin No. 2 Flying Training<br />
School (2FTS), graduated 2FTS and<br />
received my wings in September this<br />
year.<br />
“Going through pilots’ course,<br />
<strong>the</strong> last thing that I expected was to<br />
be posted to <strong>the</strong> balloon, but now<br />
that I am here it has been a very<br />
enjoyable experience.”<br />
In <strong>the</strong> lead-up to last month’s<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Force Air Show at<br />
Amberley, FLGOFF Russell took <strong>the</strong><br />
opportunity to ‘drop in’ on friends<br />
and family.<br />
“My family is in Toowoomba and<br />
were very excited to hear I would be<br />
home with <strong>the</strong> balloon,” she said.<br />
“They woke up early to watch<br />
our free flight over <strong>the</strong> town and<br />
attended our promotional stop at <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Queensland to get a<br />
closer look at <strong>the</strong> balloon. My family<br />
is very supportive.<br />
“During <strong>the</strong> trip to Toowoomba,<br />
I was undergoing training so it was<br />
my responsibility to put into practice<br />
all <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>oretical training I had<br />
completed. The crew chief is responsible<br />
for <strong>the</strong> safe conduct <strong>of</strong> ballooning,<br />
including set-up and recovery<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> balloon. It was great that my<br />
family got to see a little <strong>of</strong> what I’m<br />
up to <strong>the</strong>se days.”<br />
FLGOFF Russell said she valued<br />
her time with <strong>the</strong> balloon crew,<br />
however was looking forward to<br />
her upcoming Caribou conversion<br />
course and a long career with <strong>the</strong><br />
Air Force.<br />
“I am currently waiting for<br />
<strong>the</strong> next operational conversion at<br />
38SQN in Townsville and am looking<br />
forward to, once qualified, flying<br />
in active roles with training exercises<br />
and, ultimately, deployments,”<br />
she said.<br />
“Hopefully I’ll be a flight commander<br />
at a flying unit [one day];<br />
perhaps flying <strong>the</strong> C-17.”<br />
By FLGOFF Madonna Gardner<br />
SOME important visitors were welcomed<br />
and outstanding squadron members<br />
were recognised recently when<br />
11SQN celebrated its 69th birthday.<br />
11SQN was formed at RAAF Base<br />
Richmond on September 21, 1939, and<br />
<strong>from</strong> March, 1941, it began operating<br />
Catalina flying boats.<br />
Consequently, <strong>the</strong> squadron was<br />
honoured to have 20 members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Adelaide Catalina Club attend <strong>the</strong> birthday<br />
celebrations.<br />
Club president Art Coppock said: “It<br />
is such a pleasure to be involved with<br />
11SQN on such occasions, as it brings<br />
back so many memories.”<br />
During <strong>the</strong> celebrations, three handmade<br />
Catalina Trophies were presented.<br />
The Catalina Trophy recognises pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
excellence, enterprise and a notable<br />
contribution to <strong>the</strong> squadron.<br />
The trophy for <strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong>ficer went<br />
to FLTLT Dave Palmer, for best WOFF/<br />
SNCO to WOFF Mat<strong>the</strong>w Basedow and<br />
for best NCO/Aircraftman to CPL John<br />
Zbierski. FSGT Joshua Rooney was<br />
awarded <strong>the</strong> Col Asimus Trophy for best<br />
flight engineer.<br />
In return, Catalina Club secretary<br />
Bill Burnett was presented with a framed<br />
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News<br />
17<br />
Past and present<br />
combine for 69th<br />
birthday<br />
BIG 69TH: Mr Coppock and AC Mark<br />
Martin cut <strong>the</strong> cake.<br />
Photo: CPL Greg Walls<br />
memento, which included a picture <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
nose art painted on an AP-3C deployed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Middle East Area <strong>of</strong> Operations<br />
by <strong>the</strong> maintenance crews during <strong>the</strong><br />
March-June 2008 deployment.<br />
Mr Burnett said he was “proud to<br />
receive such a gift”.<br />
Mr Coppock, as <strong>the</strong> oldest member,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> squadron’s newest member, AC<br />
Mark Martin, cut <strong>the</strong> birthday cake.<br />
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Aerospace. <strong>Defence</strong>. Security.
18 News AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
Amberley’s<br />
puppy love<br />
By LAC Aaron Curran<br />
MILITARY Working Dog<br />
MWD) pups and <strong>the</strong>ir future carrs<br />
came toge<strong>the</strong>r recently for a day<br />
f fun activities and a chance to get<br />
o know each o<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Conducted by <strong>the</strong> Military<br />
Working Dog Foster Care (FC) Fleet<br />
Supply Flight (FSF) at RAAF Base<br />
Amberley, <strong>the</strong> activity is regularly<br />
held on Saturday mornings for new<br />
and repeat foster carers.<br />
“The carers view photographic<br />
display boards and watch a DVD<br />
showcasing <strong>the</strong> pups and adult dogs,”<br />
Fleet Supply Manager MWD FSF,<br />
RAAF Security and Fire School<br />
(RAAFSFS), John Baguley, said.<br />
“The carers were thanked on<br />
behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> acting commandant<br />
AAF College, WGCDR David<br />
shworth, and CO RAAFSFS<br />
GCDR Simon Sauer for voluneering<br />
for this essential role in <strong>the</strong><br />
evelopment <strong>of</strong> Air Force MWD.”<br />
A presentation was given detailng<br />
<strong>the</strong> roles and history <strong>of</strong> MWD<br />
n <strong>the</strong> Air Force, followed by a tour<br />
f <strong>the</strong> facilities and <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> state-<strong>of</strong>-<br />
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in partnership with<br />
<strong>the</strong>-art breeding facility. A practical<br />
working dog display <strong>of</strong> a validated<br />
adult MWD was conducted demonstrating<br />
basic obedience control, tactical<br />
obstacles and attack capabilities.<br />
The carers were treated to a barbecue<br />
brunch with question and<br />
answer and interactive pups’ training<br />
sessions.<br />
Documentation and pup equipment<br />
was issued, along with items<br />
such as training diaries, veterinary<br />
supplies, toys, bedding, dog food<br />
and anything that <strong>the</strong> pups needed to<br />
assist in <strong>the</strong>ir development, care and<br />
upbringing.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day, <strong>the</strong> pups<br />
were presented to <strong>the</strong>ir carer volunteers.<br />
“The carers provide an invaluable<br />
service to <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> pups<br />
by exposing <strong>the</strong>m to a raft <strong>of</strong> day-today<br />
activities that we cannot include<br />
like noise, sight, sound and smells,”<br />
Mr Baguley said.<br />
“The carers are encouraged to<br />
take <strong>the</strong> pups to <strong>the</strong> beach, forest,<br />
into <strong>the</strong> public arena, small and big<br />
crowds.”<br />
He said <strong>the</strong> key for successful,<br />
well-rounded pups is exposure, <strong>the</strong>n<br />
more exposure, to varied and interesting<br />
things to stimulate it.<br />
“We endeavour to provide a partnership<br />
approach with <strong>the</strong> carers by<br />
welcoming feedback on <strong>the</strong> pups<br />
activities and progress. FSF staff will<br />
visit <strong>the</strong> pups on a monthly basis to<br />
assess and assist in <strong>the</strong>ir progress,”<br />
he said.<br />
The Air Force aims to produce 80<br />
working line German Shepherd or<br />
Belgium Malinois pups each calendar<br />
year. On any given carers morning<br />
<strong>the</strong>y can cater for up to 60 persons<br />
depending on <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong><br />
pups going out to care.<br />
“Our largest carers’ morning to<br />
date has been <strong>the</strong> placement <strong>of</strong> 22<br />
pups,” Mr Baguley said.<br />
“Foster care is a great learning<br />
experience and provides an invaluable<br />
service to <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong><br />
potential Air Force MWDs.”<br />
For more information on <strong>the</strong> puppy<br />
foster program or planned foster<br />
care days, contact FSF staff on 0438<br />
177534 or (07) 546 13688 or email:<br />
RAAF.puppycarers@defence.gov.au<br />
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FAMILY BOND: Troy and Yvonne Salton and <strong>the</strong>ir children Montana and<br />
Domonic get acquainted with <strong>the</strong>ir adopted MWD ‘Uday’ at <strong>the</strong> recent puppy<br />
foster care day at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: LAC Scott Woodward<br />
Willietown’s doggy day out<br />
By Andrew Stackpool<br />
TWO Military Working Dogs<br />
(MWD) and <strong>the</strong>ir handlers <strong>from</strong><br />
381ECSS at RAAF Base Williamtown<br />
recently played <strong>the</strong>ir part in<br />
raising much-needed funds for a<br />
local surf club during ‘Doggy Day<br />
Out 2008’.<br />
MWDs ‘Mack’ and ‘Vooch’ with<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir handlers CPLs Kirsty Winton<br />
and Anthony Tulk, and LACW<br />
Melissa Reibel, provided a static display<br />
for <strong>the</strong> event. The fundraiser<br />
comprised canine stalls, a pipe band,<br />
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which led a ‘Parade <strong>of</strong> Pooches’ with<br />
<strong>the</strong> participants parading behind <strong>the</strong><br />
flag <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir country <strong>of</strong> origin, ring<br />
events, and a canine fashion parade.<br />
“We all enjoyed it and hopefully<br />
we can do it again in <strong>the</strong> future,”<br />
CPL Winton said. “We handlers<br />
always like to talk about what our<br />
dogs can do and discuss dog training<br />
ideas and techniques with people<br />
<strong>from</strong> different backgrounds.<br />
“We had many people visit <strong>the</strong><br />
stand as a lot <strong>of</strong> people don’t know<br />
<strong>the</strong> Air Force has dogs or what <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
role is.”<br />
Ann Roach<br />
Regional Manager Inner Sydney<br />
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AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
FAMILY FUN: Air Force Gap Year student OFFCDT Ceridwen Morgan hands<br />
out Air Force souvenirs to Roanne and JP, <strong>the</strong> children <strong>of</strong> SQNLDR Braam<br />
Stander <strong>from</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Establishment Fairbairn, at <strong>the</strong> recent Canberra<br />
Airport Open Day. OFFCDT Morgan was part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Air Force Balloon crew<br />
<strong>from</strong> No. 28 (City <strong>of</strong> Canberra) Squadron, who supported <strong>the</strong> local event.<br />
Photo: SQNLDR Braam Stander<br />
TAKE OFF WITH AN ONLINE AVIATION DEGREE<br />
Match your defence force experience with a tertiary qualifi cation.<br />
BE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE<br />
13 CQUni www.cquni.edu.au<br />
13 27 86<br />
Flightline<br />
19<br />
GOING BUSH: Above, airfield defence<br />
guard LAC Daniel Sheard <strong>from</strong> No. 2 Airfield<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley<br />
stands by an Air Force Bushmaster during<br />
<strong>the</strong> 2008 <strong>Defence</strong> Force Air Show, which was<br />
held at <strong>the</strong> base recently. LAC Sheard joined<br />
<strong>the</strong> Air Force because he wanted to continue<br />
his family’s strong military tradition.<br />
Photo: CPL Melina Mancuso<br />
THANKS RHONDA: Left, CO 1SQN WGCDR<br />
Micka Gray presents former operations clerk<br />
SGT Rhonda Chase with an autographed<br />
photo <strong>of</strong> an F-111 as a farewell memento<br />
for her dedicated work with <strong>the</strong> squadron<br />
at a morning tea. SGT Chase had been<br />
commissioned as a FLGOFF and posted<br />
to RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook, as an<br />
administration <strong>of</strong>ficer. Photo: AC Craig Barrett<br />
CO12094
20 Personnel AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
Don’t forget to post<br />
your gifts<br />
BE MINDFUL about contents and<br />
rapping, post early and avoid disappointment.<br />
That’s <strong>the</strong> message <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
DF and Australia Post as <strong>the</strong> deadlines<br />
rapidly approach for Christmas mailing<br />
rrangements.<br />
The provision <strong>of</strong> postal services to<br />
forces deployed on operations and major<br />
exercises within Australia and overseas<br />
is a critical link to home, and provides<br />
immense benefits to <strong>the</strong> morale and wellbeing<br />
<strong>of</strong> deployed members and <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
families, especially during <strong>the</strong> Christmas<br />
period.<br />
To provide Australia Post and <strong>Defence</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> best opportunity to deliver letters<br />
and parcels by Christmas, all mail (to<br />
and <strong>from</strong> Australia) must be posted early<br />
enough to arrive at <strong>the</strong> Australia Post<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> Mail Facility in Sydney by <strong>the</strong><br />
following dates:<br />
December 9 – AFPO1, AFPO7,<br />
AFPO8, AFPO10, AFPO12, AFPO13,<br />
AFPO14, AFPO16, AFPO18, AFPO20.<br />
December 12 – AFPO2, AFPO5,<br />
AFPO11.<br />
Senders within Australia should<br />
check with <strong>the</strong>ir local Australia Post<br />
Retail Outlet, Customer Call Centre on<br />
131318 or visit <strong>the</strong> Australia Post web<br />
site at: www.auspost.com.au to determine<br />
an appropriate posting date <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
location to meet <strong>the</strong> above closing dates.<br />
Deployed forces should check with <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
local postal manager or postal clerk to<br />
determine an appropriate posting date<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir location.<br />
When sending items through <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Defence</strong> network, not only during <strong>the</strong><br />
Christmas period but at any time, consideration<br />
should be given to:<br />
Cultural awareness issues – whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
<strong>the</strong> item is prohibited or restricted in<br />
certain countries.<br />
Customs documentation and prohibitions<br />
– dangerous goods, prohibitions<br />
and restrictions apply to mail sent<br />
through <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Postal Service to<br />
and <strong>from</strong> overseas.<br />
International mail security – all mail<br />
sent through <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Postal<br />
Service must comply with international<br />
mail security requirements, including<br />
‘pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> identity’ requirements at <strong>the</strong><br />
time <strong>of</strong> lodgement.<br />
Humanitarian/aid material – mail sent<br />
via <strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> network is restricted<br />
to personal mail only. ‘Goodwill’<br />
items attract normal international rates<br />
<strong>of</strong> postage and should be sent via <strong>the</strong><br />
civilian mail system.<br />
Address requirements – letters and<br />
parcels for deployed land-based personnel<br />
should be addressed: serial<br />
number, rank, initials and surname;<br />
unit name or operation (if applicable);<br />
AFPO (add number); AUSTRALIAN<br />
DEFENCE FORCES, NSW 2890. For<br />
HMA Ships, substitute <strong>the</strong> unit’s name<br />
for <strong>the</strong> ship’s name.<br />
DFA’s New<br />
Website<br />
www.dfa.org.au<br />
DFA’s website provides you with a family focused<br />
portal on ADF information. It also provides DFA<br />
with <strong>the</strong> opportunity to inform and update you<br />
on our advocacy role in family related policy<br />
and entitlements.<br />
For more information phone 1800 100 509<br />
FREE Shopping Bag<br />
DFA toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong> ADF<br />
Financial Services Consumer<br />
Council are pleased to <strong>of</strong>fer a<br />
free recyclable shopping bag to<br />
families who register on our new<br />
look website.<br />
This Free Bag will be<br />
forwarded to you once your<br />
membership has been<br />
processed (please allow<br />
up to four weeks).<br />
CHRISTMAS GIVING: Time is running out to send presents to your<br />
loved ones deployed overseas. Pictured are LACWs Rachael Collins<br />
(front) and Pauline Jenkins sorting through incoming and outgoing<br />
mail at <strong>the</strong> Orion Detachment in <strong>the</strong> MEAO. Photo: AB Paul Berry<br />
Approvals<br />
easier with<br />
new form<br />
By Carla Howden<br />
IF YOU are looking for a<br />
personal loan or for rented<br />
accommodation it is now<br />
much easier and quicker to<br />
confirm your employment<br />
details to a third party.<br />
There is now a centralised<br />
process to allow third parties<br />
to inquire about a member’s/<br />
employee’s employment.<br />
“The change affects all<br />
personnel, both uniformed<br />
and civilian, and will provide<br />
a consistent service,”<br />
Assistant Director Military<br />
Personnel Admin, Directorate<br />
<strong>of</strong> Integrated People Solutions,<br />
Michele Fanner, said.<br />
<strong>All</strong> you have to do is complete<br />
a ‘Permission to Inquire’<br />
form (AD214). Then fax it to<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Service Centre<br />
(DSC) on (02) 6455 1200 or<br />
drop <strong>the</strong> form into a Customer<br />
Service Centre (CSC).<br />
Your information can <strong>the</strong>n<br />
be made available to third parties<br />
24 hours after lodgement<br />
<strong>of</strong> your AD214 with ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
DSC or a CSC.<br />
For more information, see<br />
Defgram 591/2008, contact<br />
<strong>the</strong> DSC on 1800 333<br />
36 (1800DEFENCE), email:<br />
dsc@defence.gov.au or see<br />
your local CSC.<br />
supporting<br />
defence<br />
families...
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
LOOK AHEAD: Members leaving <strong>the</strong><br />
ADF can now be more prepared with<br />
<strong>the</strong> ‘Stepping Out’ program run by<br />
Veterans’ Affairs. Pictured is Recruit<br />
Michael Rowling ready for action during<br />
training at RAAF Base Amberley.<br />
Photo: CPL Andrew Eddie<br />
Free advice<br />
on stepping<br />
out <strong>of</strong> ADF<br />
A FREE two-day program focusng<br />
on <strong>the</strong> transition <strong>from</strong> military to<br />
ivilian life is now available for people<br />
Stepping Out’ <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ADF.<br />
Developed by <strong>the</strong> Veterans and<br />
Veterans Families Counselling Service<br />
(VVCS), <strong>the</strong> ‘Stepping Out’ program<br />
is being held across Australia. The program<br />
is available to exiting or recently<br />
exited ADF members and <strong>the</strong>ir partners,<br />
and serving members are considered to<br />
be ‘on duty at ano<strong>the</strong>r location’ while<br />
participating.<br />
Civilian life and military life are two<br />
very different experiences in very different<br />
environments; <strong>the</strong> transition between<br />
<strong>the</strong> two requires adjustment. Separating<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> military may impact on personal<br />
lives, families and work situations.<br />
Understanding <strong>the</strong> differences<br />
between military and civilian lifestyles<br />
helps a smooth and positive transition<br />
between <strong>the</strong> two and <strong>the</strong> ‘Stepping Out’<br />
program has been designed to assist with<br />
his process. As one participant said:<br />
Until I attended <strong>the</strong> ‘Stepping Out’ proram,<br />
I didn’t fully realise <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong><br />
ransition out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> military.”<br />
The program gives participants information<br />
about what <strong>the</strong>y can do to mange<br />
change in <strong>the</strong>ir lives. It will help<br />
hem identify and use skills <strong>the</strong>y already<br />
have and learn about:<br />
<strong>the</strong> experience <strong>of</strong> change as part <strong>of</strong><br />
life;<br />
<strong>the</strong> transition <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> ADF to civilian<br />
life;<br />
skills for staying motivated and adaptable;<br />
and<br />
maintaining relationships and seeking<br />
support.<br />
One participant said: “This program<br />
complements <strong>the</strong> ADF Transition<br />
Seminars, by dealing more with <strong>the</strong><br />
emotions and thoughts associated with<br />
transition”.<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r participant said: “Attending<br />
<strong>the</strong> program helped me with <strong>the</strong> stress I<br />
was experiencing.”<br />
While ‘Stepping Out’ is a key element<br />
<strong>of</strong> VVCS support for younger veterans,<br />
peacekeepers and ADF personnel,<br />
members may also be eligible to<br />
access a range <strong>of</strong> VVCS services including<br />
counselling, crisis support and group<br />
programs.<br />
VVCS <strong>of</strong>fers help with anger management,<br />
heart health and education around a<br />
range <strong>of</strong> issues including stress management,<br />
anxiety, relationships and lifestyle.<br />
Call VVCS on 1800 011046 to reserve a<br />
place in <strong>the</strong> program, or to find out more<br />
about its services and support, visit:<br />
www.dva.gov.au/health/vvcs<br />
This information was provided by <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Department</strong> <strong>of</strong> Veterans’ Affairs.<br />
Program calendar<br />
Location Date<br />
Adelaide November 11/12<br />
Nowra November 19/20<br />
Melbourne November 19/20<br />
Townsville November 24/25<br />
Canberra November 26/27<br />
Sydney December 2/3<br />
Darwin December 8/9<br />
Melbourne<br />
February 19/20<br />
Wodonga April 30/May 9<br />
Awards site now on intranet<br />
AIR Force Headquarters has<br />
recently launched <strong>the</strong> ‘Air Force<br />
Awards’ intranet site on <strong>the</strong><br />
RAAFWEB.<br />
The site contains images and <strong>the</strong><br />
historical background <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force pr<strong>of</strong>iciency and leadership<br />
awards which are awarded annually<br />
by CAF. Where possible a listing<br />
<strong>of</strong> all previous recipients <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
awards will be included – this information<br />
will be fur<strong>the</strong>r populated<br />
when <strong>the</strong> trophies are returned to<br />
AFHQ before <strong>the</strong> next awards ceremony.<br />
Current trophy holders can also<br />
advise RAAFWEB administrator<br />
FSGT Ben Wright <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir details.<br />
The site also contains a complete<br />
listing <strong>of</strong> Air Force units that have<br />
been awarded citations and information<br />
on Air Force Commendations.<br />
Visit: http://intranet.defence.gov.<br />
au/raafweb/sites/awards<br />
INPUT is invited <strong>from</strong> commanders<br />
on <strong>the</strong>ir top safety concerns<br />
to assist with <strong>the</strong> setting<br />
<strong>of</strong> priorities related to Air Force<br />
safety.<br />
Concerns might involve issues<br />
which are perceived to be unresolved,<br />
issues where resolution or<br />
control measures are thought to be<br />
fragile, or issues where an appar-<br />
ently disproportionate effort is<br />
required to resolve.<br />
Input is sought on:<br />
specific hazard concerns (for<br />
example, hazardous substances,<br />
fatigue, working in isolation);<br />
general safety management concerns<br />
(for example, personal<br />
protective equipment procurement<br />
processes); and<br />
Personnel<br />
21<br />
Air Force safety concerns sought<br />
<strong>the</strong> usefulness or o<strong>the</strong>rwise <strong>of</strong><br />
policy and guidance published at<br />
<strong>Defence</strong> level in SAFETYMAN.<br />
While consultation might be<br />
necessary with relevant safety staff,<br />
it is <strong>the</strong> view <strong>of</strong> commanders which<br />
is specifically sought.<br />
Comments should be emailed to<br />
WGCDR Grant Murphy at: grant.<br />
murphy@defence.gov.au
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AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
Traces<br />
found <strong>of</strong><br />
aircrew<br />
By Andrew Stackpool<br />
NO HUMAN remains were found<br />
at <strong>the</strong> site <strong>of</strong> a crashed RAAF WWII<br />
bomber in Papua New Guinea (PNG).<br />
As reported in <strong>the</strong> July 24 edition <strong>of</strong><br />
AIR FORCE News, FLGOFF Graham<br />
Gibson, PLTOFF Frank Thorn and SGTs<br />
Barton Coutie and Arthur Quail were<br />
aboard Hudson bomber A16-126 when<br />
it was shot down on February 11, 1942<br />
by fighters scrambling to intercept <strong>the</strong>m<br />
uring an attack by three Hudsons on<br />
apanese shipping at Gasmata Harbour,<br />
New Britain, in Papua New Guinea.<br />
The aircraft was discovered on May<br />
5 this year by local missionary, Mark<br />
Reichman, who informed Air Force. On<br />
June 28, an Air Force reconnaissance<br />
team flew to <strong>the</strong> site in <strong>the</strong> mountains<br />
inland <strong>from</strong> Gasmata and confirmed it<br />
was A16-126.<br />
A team <strong>of</strong> 20 personnel arrived at <strong>the</strong><br />
crash site on October 4. The team travelling<br />
<strong>from</strong> Australia comprised SQNLDR<br />
John Cotterell, SQNLDRs <strong>All</strong>an Cala<br />
and Alain Middleton (<strong>the</strong> forensic specialists),<br />
FLTLT Mark French and FSGT<br />
John Carroll. In PNG, <strong>the</strong>y were joined by<br />
FSGT Gavin Willmett <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> Australian<br />
High Commission, John Lelai <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> PNG National Museum <strong>of</strong> Modern<br />
History, Mark Reichman and 12 locals<br />
who worked as labourers on <strong>the</strong> site.<br />
SQNLDR Cotterell said <strong>the</strong> team<br />
established a base camp about 200m <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> crash site. The team cleared <strong>the</strong> site <strong>of</strong><br />
leaves and top cover and <strong>the</strong>n divided <strong>the</strong><br />
search area around <strong>the</strong> wreckage into a<br />
series <strong>of</strong> 12.5m x 5m grids.<br />
“We found all <strong>the</strong> major components,”<br />
SQNLDR Cotterell said. “One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
wings was about 20m away, while we<br />
found smaller pieces <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> aircraft up to<br />
50m away. We were hopeful <strong>of</strong> finding<br />
some remains but were also aware that 66<br />
years is a long time for remains to survive<br />
in tropical conditions. According to <strong>the</strong><br />
forensics specialists, remains may have<br />
survived under drier conditions.”<br />
The team meticulously searched each<br />
grid square. SQNLDR Cotterell said that<br />
<strong>the</strong> excavation was a laborious process,<br />
which required great care and attention to<br />
detail. He acknowledged <strong>the</strong> efforts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
local workers.<br />
“They worked extremely hard. They<br />
also developed a shift rotation so <strong>the</strong>y<br />
were always fresh for work,” he said.<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> personal effects were<br />
found in <strong>the</strong> main section <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> aircraft<br />
wreckage. The team conducted three<br />
DISCOVERY: FSGT Gavin Willmett<br />
inspects a piece <strong>of</strong> wreckage <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Hudson. Photo: FSGT John Carroll<br />
searches <strong>of</strong> this area and found personal<br />
effects for each crew member.<br />
“From FLGOFF Gibson we identified<br />
dog tags and an engraved pen, <strong>from</strong><br />
PLTOFF Thorn a watch engraved ‘16 Aug<br />
32’ (his 20th birthday), <strong>from</strong> SGT Quail a<br />
set <strong>of</strong> dentures and <strong>from</strong> SGT Coutie, his<br />
dog tags.”<br />
SQNLDR Cotterell said <strong>the</strong> items<br />
would be returned to <strong>the</strong> men’s relatives,<br />
who have been informed <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> discoveries.<br />
Not identified were a ‘RAAF’ ring, a<br />
pocket watch, two wrist watches and two<br />
pen knives.<br />
“When SGT Quail’s dentures were<br />
found, we conducted a group prayer led<br />
by Mark Reichman in both English and<br />
Pidgin,” he said. “The finding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dentures<br />
in <strong>the</strong> cockpit area was <strong>the</strong> first indication<br />
that some or all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> crew had<br />
died in <strong>the</strong> wreckage.<br />
“We were delighted we could positively<br />
identify items <strong>from</strong> each crew member<br />
to present to <strong>the</strong>ir families.”<br />
The ring and o<strong>the</strong>r items will be harder<br />
to attribute to one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> airmen. The next<br />
step will be to try to identify <strong>the</strong> ownership<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> remaining personal items and<br />
<strong>the</strong>n present <strong>the</strong>m all to <strong>the</strong> families. Air<br />
Force Headquarters is hoping that this can<br />
by undertaken before <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> this year,<br />
depending on <strong>the</strong> wishes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> families.<br />
PNG TEAMWORK: The Operation Kovi Moses team ga<strong>the</strong>rs at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
search. It includes <strong>the</strong> locally employed workers: Dixon Saip, Tom Kataka, Kovi<br />
Wesley, Steven Eremas, Enus Daniel, Amos Benley, Lulu Michael, Kimou Zo,<br />
Peter Lale, Peter Kovi, Boas Moses and Steven Boas. Photo: FSGT John Carroll<br />
THE SEARCHERS: Above, team members carefully<br />
search a grid square for any human remains <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
crash <strong>of</strong> Hudson A16-126. No human remains were<br />
discovered. Photo: FSGT John Carroll<br />
RIP: Right, Hudson crew members PLTOFF Frank<br />
Thorn (left) and FLGOFF Graham Ian Gibson pictured<br />
in 1941. Photo: File image<br />
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24 Lifestyle AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
HEALTH<br />
Let’s step to it<br />
Step machines provide a great leg workout and are a good form <strong>of</strong><br />
low-impact cardio exercise, but can cause problems. LT Rob Orr<br />
explains <strong>the</strong> common flaws in techniques and how to correct <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
WHILE <strong>the</strong> basic concept <strong>of</strong><br />
using a step machine is well understood,<br />
many forget that, just like<br />
training on any o<strong>the</strong>r form <strong>of</strong> equipment,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re are specific exercise<br />
techniques that are needed to avoid<br />
injury.<br />
Before looking at exercise techniques<br />
for <strong>the</strong> stepper, <strong>the</strong> two different<br />
types <strong>of</strong> step machine need to be<br />
reviewed.<br />
The first type is a ‘step down’ orientated<br />
machine where <strong>the</strong> aim <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
exercise is to literally push <strong>the</strong> step<br />
down. This action forces <strong>the</strong> opposing<br />
pedal up in a dependent action and<br />
hese machines are <strong>the</strong>refore commonly<br />
known as dependent action<br />
machines.<br />
The second type <strong>of</strong> step machine<br />
requires <strong>the</strong> exerciser to lift <strong>the</strong>ir foot<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> step before <strong>the</strong> pedal reaches<br />
<strong>the</strong> bottom <strong>of</strong> its range.<br />
Due to <strong>the</strong> ‘lifting up’ nature <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>se machines <strong>the</strong> pedals are independent<br />
and as such, <strong>the</strong> action on<br />
ne side will not influence <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
These machines are known as<br />
ndependent action step machines.<br />
Several technique flaws can occur<br />
n step machines, but many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se<br />
an be easily corrected.<br />
TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY?<br />
History has shown that when <strong>the</strong> share market suffers sharp or<br />
sustained falls, investors turn to residential property investment.<br />
(source: Australian Property Investor)<br />
Increases in property <strong>of</strong> between 15 – 20% have occurred within<br />
<br />
<strong>the</strong> world share price collapse, <strong>the</strong> second, in 2001, with <strong>the</strong> burst<br />
<br />
(source: Australian Property Investor)<br />
So, Corp Bill considered history and with pr<strong>of</strong>essional guidance<br />
<br />
<br />
property investment.<br />
Falling interest rates, rising rents and low vacancy rates in rental<br />
<br />
his decision.<br />
The major surprise for Bill was that this was only going<br />
to cost him $500* per fortnight.<br />
<br />
case by case basis.<br />
This case study is for illustrative purposes only and not to be construed as<br />
<br />
when making an investment decision.<br />
Spectrum’s wealth creation strategies consider:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Locked elbows<br />
Locking <strong>the</strong> elbows while holding<br />
<strong>the</strong> side rails can lead to stress on <strong>the</strong><br />
wrist, elbow and shoulder joints.<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, locked elbows may<br />
decrease <strong>the</strong> training value <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
activity by decreasing energy expenditure<br />
and muscle loading.<br />
Solution: Keep <strong>the</strong> elbows slightly<br />
bent, resting <strong>the</strong> hands lightly on <strong>the</strong><br />
guide rails.<br />
Leaning across panel<br />
An excessive forward lean position<br />
places load across <strong>the</strong> lower back<br />
and, by locking <strong>the</strong> upper body in<br />
place, can cause a forced rotation<br />
across <strong>the</strong> lower back or hip junction.<br />
Solution: Avoid pushing your hips<br />
backward and maintain an upright<br />
posture.<br />
Small motion range<br />
Users perceive <strong>the</strong>y are working<br />
harder due to <strong>the</strong> greater speeds <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are able to accomplish, but as <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are not using <strong>the</strong>ir legs through a full<br />
range <strong>of</strong> motion, less actual energy<br />
may be utilised.<br />
More importantly, for independent<br />
action steppers in particular, <strong>the</strong><br />
hip flexor muscle groups (which are<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten over-trained) can be placed<br />
under great stress in a very limited<br />
range <strong>of</strong> motion.<br />
Solution: Use a mid to full range<br />
<strong>of</strong> motion. Step height should go<br />
<strong>from</strong> leg straight (slightly bent at <strong>the</strong><br />
knee) to a knee bend <strong>of</strong> no more than<br />
approximately 60 degrees.<br />
Foot positioning<br />
Incorrect foot position includes<br />
<strong>the</strong> heels hanging over <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
pedals, <strong>the</strong> heels raised so that <strong>the</strong><br />
exerciser is on <strong>the</strong>ir toes, or having<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir feet placed unevenly or crooked<br />
on <strong>the</strong> pedals.<br />
Not only may this cause <strong>the</strong> member<br />
to slow or cease <strong>the</strong>ir training session<br />
due to lower leg (calf) fatigue,<br />
but more importantly, <strong>the</strong> position<br />
may potentially lead to a joint injury<br />
and/or muscular imbalances.<br />
Solution: Ensure your feet are<br />
equal distance apart and entirely on<br />
<strong>the</strong> pedal.<br />
Heavy range actions<br />
This incorrect technical action is<br />
more common on dependent action<br />
machines when working hard or fast<br />
and on <strong>the</strong> independent machines<br />
when fatigued.<br />
Generally, <strong>the</strong> exerciser pushes<br />
7000 1987<br />
6000<br />
5000<br />
4000<br />
World share price collapse,<br />
Property boom (1988 - 1989)<br />
3000<br />
2200<br />
2000<br />
1800<br />
1600<br />
1400<br />
1200<br />
1000<br />
THE GOOD NEWS<br />
1985 1990 1995 2000<br />
Let Spectrum develop your winning strategy<br />
Call 1300 784 246<br />
or visit www.spect.com.au<br />
2001<br />
Tech wreck.<br />
Advising <strong>Defence</strong> Personnel for 26 years<br />
Sept 11 Terrorist<br />
attacks on US.<br />
Property boom (2001 - 2002)<br />
source: www.asx.com.au<br />
2008<br />
US Credit Crisis.<br />
2005 2010<br />
The sure way to miss success is to miss <strong>the</strong> opportunity.<br />
Falling Interest Rates<br />
Falling supply <strong>of</strong><br />
investment properties<br />
TECHNIQUE CHECKLIST<br />
Posture is upright with centre<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> body in line with <strong>the</strong><br />
centre <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> machine.<br />
Hands are ei<strong>the</strong>r resting lightly<br />
on <strong>the</strong> rails for balance, or<br />
if familiar with <strong>the</strong> machine,<br />
swinging freely in a natural<br />
arm swing.<br />
Range <strong>of</strong> motion is correct<br />
with no striking end-<strong>of</strong>-range<br />
stoppers.<br />
Rhythm is smooth and equal<br />
on each side.<br />
down too hard or lifts up too slowly,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> pedal hits <strong>the</strong> breaking stopper<br />
or <strong>the</strong> floor at <strong>the</strong> bottom end <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> pedal range.<br />
This sends a jarring impact up <strong>the</strong><br />
musculoskeletal chain and can cause<br />
trauma to <strong>the</strong> muscles and joints <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> body.<br />
Solution: Ensure your knees are<br />
slightly bent at end-<strong>of</strong>-range.<br />
Aim to prevent <strong>the</strong> pedal <strong>from</strong><br />
making contact with <strong>the</strong> bottom, or<br />
top, stoppers.<br />
Rocking<br />
As <strong>the</strong> exerciser becomes fatigued,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is an increased tendency for <strong>the</strong><br />
body to rock <strong>from</strong> side to side in an<br />
attempt to use body weight to remove<br />
<strong>the</strong> load on <strong>the</strong> legs.<br />
Solution: Maintain an upright posture.<br />
Keep <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> body in<br />
line with <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> machine.<br />
MUSCLE MACHINES: Steppers burn<br />
calories and work muscles in <strong>the</strong> lower body.<br />
Photo: CPL Corinne Boer<br />
Falling vacancy rates<br />
Increasing rents<br />
Increasing Government Incentives
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
FINANCE<br />
New key to saving<br />
Take into account a new initiative when<br />
saving for that first home, Australian Securities<br />
and Investments Commission Chairman<br />
Tony D’Aloisio writes.<br />
SAVING a deposit for your first<br />
home requires discipline and determination.<br />
For some, <strong>the</strong> challenge can<br />
eem overwhelming, given <strong>the</strong> relative<br />
xpense involved.<br />
A new type <strong>of</strong> account called <strong>the</strong><br />
irst Home Saver Account is now<br />
vailable to help people save for <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
irst home.<br />
These accounts have been<br />
eveloped as part <strong>of</strong> an Australian<br />
overnment initiative, and became<br />
vailable on October 1.<br />
There are a number <strong>of</strong> features<br />
hat are particular to <strong>the</strong> First Home<br />
aver Account, and it is important to<br />
be aware <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m to help you decide if<br />
ne will help you.<br />
Are you eligible?<br />
First, you need to know if you’re<br />
eligible to open <strong>the</strong> account. You will<br />
need to satisfy <strong>the</strong> following criteria:<br />
You need to be aged between 18<br />
and 65 years;<br />
You must supply your Tax File<br />
Number;<br />
You can only open a First Home<br />
Saver Account once; and<br />
You can’t have owned a home<br />
in Australia that was your<br />
main residence.<br />
The benefits<br />
The main benefits are:<br />
Your savings are matched by a 17<br />
per cent Government contribution<br />
on amounts up to $5000 in each<br />
financial year. For example, if you<br />
contribute $5000 this financial<br />
year, <strong>the</strong> Government will top up<br />
your savings with $850;<br />
Low (15 per cent) tax on interest or<br />
earnings; and<br />
Interest or earnings on your savings<br />
<strong>from</strong> your financial institution.<br />
The four-year ‘rule’<br />
You must put money into your<br />
First Home Saver Account for at least<br />
four financial years before you can<br />
withdraw your savings to buy or build<br />
your first home (a normal financial<br />
year is July through to June.)<br />
You need to have saved at least<br />
$1000 in each <strong>of</strong> four or more financial<br />
years. This works out around $20<br />
a week. This doesn’t need to be four<br />
years in a row and you don’t need to<br />
save every year.<br />
First home grant<br />
You can still get a $7000 First<br />
Home Owner Grant as well as having<br />
a First Home Saver Account. For<br />
Our new<br />
eLearning<br />
module can<br />
help you get<br />
Financial<br />
Advice.<br />
BENEFITS: Make sure you do your calculations carefully.<br />
more information on <strong>the</strong> grant, visit:<br />
www.firsthome.gov.au.<br />
Is it right for you?<br />
A First Home Saver Account is<br />
unlike an ordinary savings account,<br />
because you can use your savings to<br />
only buy or build a home that you will<br />
live in.<br />
Deciding whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> account is<br />
right for you is a big decision to weigh<br />
up because if you open an account and<br />
<strong>the</strong>n change your mind, your money<br />
will be put into your super fund – you<br />
can’t just take it back out again.<br />
Do <strong>the</strong> calculations<br />
You can use ASIC’s online First<br />
Do you need<br />
a Financial<br />
Adviser?<br />
How does<br />
an Adviser<br />
get paid?<br />
Home Saver Account calculator at<br />
www.fido.gov.au/firsthomesaver to<br />
get an even better understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
how <strong>the</strong>se accounts work and to model<br />
different ways to save for your first<br />
home.<br />
The website also has a checklist to<br />
help you decide if <strong>the</strong> account is right<br />
for you. The checklist can help you:<br />
Work out if you are you eligible to<br />
open a First Home Saver Account;<br />
Understand <strong>the</strong> rules that apply to<br />
accounts; and<br />
Choose <strong>the</strong> right account for you.<br />
For more information, visit ASIC’s consumer<br />
website, FIDO at: www.fido.gov.au or call<br />
1300 300 630. Email ASIC with topics that<br />
interest you at: ADFcolumn@asic.gov.au<br />
www.adfconsumer.gov.au<br />
ADF Financial Services Consumer Council<br />
ADF Financial Services Consumer Council<br />
For more information contact us at: adf.consumercouncil@defence.gov.au<br />
Lifestyle<br />
How do<br />
you fi nd an<br />
Adviser?<br />
What should<br />
you ask <strong>the</strong><br />
Adviser?<br />
25<br />
AC Wall’s story<br />
AC Pat Wall lives on base and has<br />
$6000 in savings. He is trying to<br />
work out whe<strong>the</strong>r or not to open<br />
a First Home Saver Account and<br />
how much to put into it. AC Wall<br />
plans to save $250 a month ($3000<br />
per year). Because a Government<br />
contribution is available only on <strong>the</strong><br />
first $5000 saved each financial<br />
year, he decides to put in $2000 in<br />
savings as <strong>the</strong> initial deposit and<br />
to add $250 a month for <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> year. He keeps <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r $4000<br />
to top up <strong>the</strong> First Home Saver<br />
Account in <strong>the</strong> next financial year.<br />
By doing this he maximises <strong>the</strong><br />
Government contribution. Now single,<br />
AC Wall hopes to start a family<br />
one day. He uses <strong>the</strong> calculator at<br />
www.fido.gov.au/firsthomesaver to<br />
see how long it would take to reach<br />
some savings goals. The calculator<br />
showed that after 12 years <strong>the</strong><br />
account would have a balance <strong>of</strong><br />
about $66,700. When AC Wall does<br />
start a family, both partners can<br />
access <strong>the</strong> money in <strong>the</strong>ir respective<br />
First Home Saver Accounts<br />
(assuming <strong>the</strong>y both have one).<br />
Couples saving for <strong>the</strong>ir first home<br />
can each open a First Home Saver<br />
Account and get <strong>the</strong> Government<br />
contributions for both accounts.<br />
When <strong>the</strong> time comes to buy or<br />
build your first home, only one <strong>of</strong><br />
you needs to meet <strong>the</strong> four-year<br />
“rule” to access your funds.
26 Sport AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
A LITTLE ATHLETICS<br />
2009 track and field champs<br />
<strong>All</strong> permanent, reserve and defence<br />
civilians are invited to contest <strong>the</strong><br />
Australian <strong>Defence</strong> Running and<br />
Athletics Association’s (ADRAA)<br />
2009 track and field championships<br />
in January.<br />
The titles will be held on <strong>the</strong><br />
Australia Day weekend <strong>from</strong> January<br />
24 to 26 at Victoria’s Landy Field in<br />
Geelong.<br />
Athletes will be able to compete<br />
in age categories for men’s and<br />
women’s open and veterans, and<br />
men’s Masters events.<br />
Entry forms will be available on <strong>the</strong><br />
website once finalised. For more<br />
information, contact ADRAA vicepresident<br />
FLTLT Spencer Cox on (02)<br />
4928 5231.<br />
Sussan Classic fun run<br />
The <strong>Defence</strong> Athletics Club will<br />
sponsor teams <strong>of</strong> three for <strong>the</strong><br />
5km and 10km events at <strong>the</strong><br />
Sussan Classic women’s fun run in<br />
Melbourne on December 7.<br />
The classic winners are decided on<br />
<strong>the</strong> cumulative times for those who<br />
complete both distances.<br />
Those interested in competing<br />
should enter <strong>the</strong>ir teams online<br />
and <strong>the</strong>n send a copy <strong>of</strong> confirmed<br />
entries to MAJ Jo-Anne Hem at<br />
jo-anne.hem@defence.gov.au or call<br />
(02) 6055 4045 or 0438 591009.<br />
Kay’s a<br />
credit<br />
By Barry Rollings<br />
SQNLDR Kay Wiseman’s pursuit<br />
<strong>of</strong> bodybuilding and sculpting<br />
is one <strong>of</strong> continual improvement,<br />
as her recent results show.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> Australian championships<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Gold Coast on October 18,<br />
she placed a creditable fifth.<br />
Just before that, she contested<br />
<strong>the</strong> ADF bodybuilding and sculpting<br />
championships at HMAS Cerberus<br />
(on September 22) and successfully<br />
defended her overall female crown.<br />
SQNLDR Wiseman, <strong>of</strong> Health<br />
Promotion at Campbell Park in<br />
Canberra, was one <strong>of</strong> an Air Force<br />
team that swept <strong>the</strong> honours this<br />
year.<br />
It was her third overall championship<br />
win, with CPL (and PTI)<br />
Lance Symonds <strong>from</strong> RAAF Base<br />
Wagga winning <strong>the</strong> overall male<br />
title. SQNLDR Wiseman’s daughter,<br />
CPL Angela Wiseman, <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Australian <strong>Defence</strong> College at<br />
Weston, was second in her division.<br />
It was <strong>the</strong> second successive<br />
year that Air Force has won both <strong>the</strong><br />
overall female and male titles.<br />
“The supportive and friendly<br />
atmosphere makes it a great comp<br />
for those just starting out,” SQNLDR<br />
Wiseman said.<br />
“The crowd is always very<br />
encouraging to all competitors.”<br />
Among <strong>the</strong> keys to SQNLDR<br />
Wiseman’s success this year was a<br />
change to her weights program every<br />
4-6 weeks to keep challenging her<br />
body to improve.<br />
“I did less cardiovascular training<br />
during <strong>the</strong> year to give my body a<br />
chance to improve,” she said.<br />
“Cardio work was used to reduce<br />
body fat levels as <strong>the</strong> training season<br />
progressed.<br />
“My diet includes eating every<br />
three hours and including protein<br />
at every meal to fuel <strong>the</strong> body<br />
adequately. I also did a course<br />
– Preparation for Bodybuilding and<br />
Sculpting competitions. The right<br />
training and competition preparation<br />
are vital to performing successfully<br />
at competition level.”<br />
As well as <strong>the</strong> ADF competition,<br />
she has competed in <strong>the</strong><br />
International Natural Bodybuilding<br />
Association each year. Some <strong>of</strong> her<br />
major achievements have included<br />
a second in <strong>the</strong> Queensland Masters<br />
Diving in at <strong>the</strong> blue end<br />
By Barry Rollings<br />
SQNLDR Sean Walsh described<br />
his recent foray to <strong>the</strong> World Formation<br />
Skydiving Championships<br />
as a “hugely costly yet rewarding<br />
experience”.<br />
The titles were held at Maubeuge<br />
in France and it was SQNLDR<br />
Walsh’s first experience at this level<br />
after being a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> team<br />
which won gold in <strong>the</strong> eight-way<br />
event at <strong>the</strong> national titles in 2007.<br />
An airspace control <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
based at HMAS Kuttabul, he was a<br />
member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Australian team that<br />
faced many challenges on <strong>the</strong> way<br />
to France.<br />
“The challenges included <strong>the</strong><br />
cost <strong>of</strong> participation in Europe and<br />
training,” SQNLDR Walsh said.<br />
“The competition aircraft are<br />
not available in Australia. It represented<br />
a big change for us because<br />
we had to exit <strong>the</strong> plane <strong>from</strong> a different<br />
side, which reversed all <strong>the</strong><br />
team positions. Can you imagine<br />
Manchester United (soccer team)<br />
lining up with <strong>the</strong> goalkeeper in a<br />
number 9 shirt?<br />
“It was a hugely costly yet<br />
rewarding experience. We had a tussle<br />
with <strong>the</strong> Spanish for eighth place<br />
but as <strong>the</strong> only truly amateur team,<br />
we came ninth.”<br />
He said 24 countries took part<br />
but not all were able to field eightway<br />
teams.<br />
LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER: SQNLDR Kay Wiseman (right)<br />
with daughter CPL Angela Wiseman at <strong>the</strong> ADF bodybuilding and<br />
sculpting championships at HMAS Cerberus in September. Kay<br />
defended her overall female crown and Angela claimed second in her<br />
division in <strong>the</strong> competition. Photo: CPL Wiseman<br />
in 2007, third in <strong>the</strong> ACT Masters<br />
and fourth at <strong>the</strong> Australian titles<br />
in 2008 and a first this year in <strong>the</strong><br />
ACT Masters.<br />
She says she likes <strong>the</strong> sport<br />
because she has always enjoyed<br />
keeping fit and being active.<br />
“Having done it now for about<br />
15 years, I liked <strong>the</strong> changes and improvement<br />
in my body that weight<br />
“The French (government-sponsored)<br />
won <strong>the</strong> event with <strong>the</strong> US<br />
Army (full-time pr<strong>of</strong>essionals) second,”<br />
he said.<br />
“I was grateful for some sponsorship<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army Sports<br />
Parachuting Association and my unit<br />
for <strong>the</strong> leave to attend <strong>the</strong> championships<br />
and train. I hope to continue<br />
in eight-way jumping but sadly<br />
this will mean a new team forming<br />
before each national event to be<br />
selected as <strong>the</strong> national team.”<br />
training has given me,” SQNLDR<br />
Wiseman said. “Resistance or weight<br />
training is a good way to reduce <strong>the</strong><br />
risk <strong>of</strong> osteoporosis and bodybuilding<br />
can be done at varying levels,<br />
depending on what you want to<br />
achieve.<br />
“It’s also a great way to build<br />
confidence and self-esteem in your<br />
appearance.”<br />
FLYING HIGH: SQNLDR Sean Walsh (second <strong>from</strong> bottom counter<br />
clockwise) links up with his Australian team in an eight-way formation<br />
at <strong>the</strong> 18th FAI World Formation Skydiving Championships in<br />
Maubeuge, France. Photo: Mitch McMartin<br />
Parachute champs<br />
ADF skydivers will join<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r at RAAF Base<br />
Richmond <strong>from</strong> December<br />
8-19 for <strong>the</strong> Army Sports<br />
Parachute Championships.<br />
For more information, contact<br />
WO1 Phil Thamm at philip.<br />
thamm@defence.gov.au<br />
-> www.heritagemedals.com.au
AIR FORCE November 13, 2008<br />
NSW gets<br />
revenge<br />
on green<br />
IT WAS a case <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> usual suspects<br />
<strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> NSW Golf Association<br />
(NSWGA) versus a balance <strong>of</strong> old warhorses<br />
and youthful debutantes <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
ADF Golf Association (ADFGA) when<br />
<strong>the</strong> two took up <strong>the</strong> cudgels – or should<br />
that be clubs – recently.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> ADFGA winning last year,<br />
t knew it was always going to be a<br />
hard-fought battle at Muree Golf Club<br />
near RAAF Base Williamtown, with <strong>the</strong><br />
NSWGA team more than keen to make up<br />
or that loss.<br />
Though <strong>the</strong> ADF could not field its<br />
trongest side, WO1 Nick Gould, LT<br />
amie Pitt and COL Lewis Coyle returned<br />
o <strong>the</strong> representative fold, while CPL Trent<br />
ortescue, PTE Matt Creek and FLTLT<br />
am Harkiss all made <strong>the</strong>ir debuts for<br />
he ADF at this level. With most experince<br />
coming <strong>from</strong> WO2 Kim Johansen,<br />
O2 Ge<strong>of</strong>f Skinner, WO1 Bruce Sukroo,<br />
LTLT Daryl Bell, PO Ian Bamford and<br />
AC Lee Oliver, <strong>the</strong> side was still quite<br />
trong.<br />
A practice round was followed by a<br />
ourball best ball match play event, which<br />
NSW won 5-1. The foursomes match play<br />
as slightly closer, with NSWGA winning<br />
.5 matches to 1.5.<br />
The ADFGA hit full stride in <strong>the</strong> afternoon<br />
singles match play to win 7-5. But it<br />
had needed 9.5 matches to win <strong>the</strong> trophy,<br />
so it fell just short overall, 14.5 to 9.5.<br />
Through <strong>the</strong> 4th hole <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fourball<br />
event, <strong>the</strong> ADFGA led in five <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> six<br />
matches but by <strong>the</strong> 12th, <strong>the</strong> NSW players<br />
had fought back to even things up. As <strong>the</strong><br />
afternoon drew to a close, NSW ended up<br />
winning five matches with <strong>the</strong> only win<br />
for ADF going to FLTLT Bell and CPL<br />
Fortescue on <strong>the</strong> 18th. With three o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
matches finishing on <strong>the</strong> 17th or 18th, <strong>the</strong><br />
result could have gone ei<strong>the</strong>r way.<br />
ADFGA team captain FLTLT Bell<br />
did some minor tweaking with <strong>the</strong> pairings<br />
before <strong>the</strong> foursomes. NSW had <strong>the</strong><br />
advantage <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong> start and ran away with<br />
some convincing wins for a 4.5 matches to<br />
1.5 match result.<br />
ADF winners were “young Turks”<br />
LAC Oliver and FLTLT Harkiss with a<br />
draw being posted by COL Coyle and<br />
elder statesman WO1 Sukroo. That gave<br />
NSW a 9.5 to 2.5 lead going into <strong>the</strong> afternoon<br />
singles.<br />
That meant that <strong>the</strong> singles were<br />
always going to be tough. Through <strong>the</strong><br />
4th and 8th holes, <strong>the</strong> ADF was trailing by<br />
eight matches to four, but by <strong>the</strong> 12th-13th<br />
holes, <strong>the</strong> ADF players had dug deep and<br />
evened things up.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> end, <strong>the</strong> ADF players prevailed<br />
by winning six matches and halving two<br />
for a 7 to 5 win, which fell just short <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
numbers needed to retain <strong>the</strong> trophy.<br />
“This was not <strong>the</strong> ADF’s strongest side,<br />
but none<strong>the</strong>less a team <strong>of</strong> players quite up<br />
to <strong>the</strong> hard ask,” ADFGA team manager<br />
WGCDR Trevor Owens said.<br />
“Given that about eight <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 24<br />
matches could have gone to <strong>the</strong> ADF but<br />
for a few unlucky holes, <strong>the</strong> result remains<br />
quite pleasing. NSWGA has always fielded<br />
strong sides against <strong>the</strong> ADF and clearly<br />
do not like suffering any losses.<br />
“The mix <strong>of</strong> old and new worked well,<br />
and all debutantes came away <strong>from</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
event with much more experience <strong>from</strong><br />
this higher level <strong>of</strong> competition. This<br />
match was again played in high spirits,<br />
with solid banter and great camaraderie<br />
evident.”<br />
ADF GREEN TEAM: Above inset, FLTLT Daryl Bell <strong>from</strong> <strong>Defence</strong> Establishment<br />
Fairbairn looks on as his playing partner, Army’s CPL Trent Fortescue, putts<br />
on <strong>the</strong> 5th green during <strong>the</strong> ADF versus NSWGA golf competition near RAAF<br />
Base Williamtown. Air Force players pictured above are, front row, FLTLT Daryl<br />
Bell (fourth <strong>from</strong> left); back row, FLTLT Sam Harkiss <strong>from</strong> JEWOSU (first left)<br />
and LAC Lee Oliver <strong>from</strong> 3SQN (second left). Photos: CPL Pete Borys<br />
THE traditional inter-Service<br />
concept returned to <strong>the</strong> Victorian<br />
volleyball championships recently,<br />
when Air Force, Army and a combined<br />
APS/Navy team competed<br />
for <strong>the</strong> perpetual trophy and title<br />
<strong>of</strong> 2008 champions.<br />
Army was out to defend last<br />
year’s win and arrived with a full<br />
complement <strong>of</strong> players and reserves.<br />
<strong>All</strong> matches were closely contested<br />
but <strong>the</strong> big-hitting <strong>from</strong> key<br />
Army players PTE Gavin Hunt and<br />
CAPT Jordan Gair, along with fresh<br />
reserves, were too much for <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force and APS/Navy. Eventually<br />
Army came away undefeated and<br />
one title closer to catching <strong>the</strong> Air<br />
Force’s tally <strong>of</strong> successes.<br />
During <strong>the</strong> medal presentations,<br />
<strong>the</strong> OIC inter-Service Volleyball,<br />
WGCDR Tony Wennerbom, thanked<br />
Rick Warren, who was at <strong>the</strong> first<br />
game in 1968 as a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
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Army team. Having retired <strong>from</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Army and now employed in <strong>the</strong><br />
APS, he is still actively involved<br />
in inter-Service and Combined<br />
Services volleyball.<br />
Despite not winning <strong>the</strong> day,<br />
Air Force still holds a commanding<br />
lead in overall tournament wins. Air<br />
Force has won 25 titles, Army 15,<br />
and Navy one.<br />
WGCDR Wennerbom noted that<br />
with <strong>the</strong> increasing number <strong>of</strong> APS<br />
players at this year’s competition,<br />
it might not be long before a fourth<br />
winner’s name is engraved on <strong>the</strong><br />
trophy.<br />
<strong>All</strong> <strong>the</strong> Victorian players represented<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Australian <strong>Defence</strong><br />
Volleyball Association’s (ADVA)<br />
2008 national tournament in<br />
Newcastle <strong>from</strong> November 2-8.<br />
With inter-Service volleyball<br />
played every year in Victoria since<br />
1968, to mark <strong>the</strong> 40th anniversary,<br />
Victorian Emergency Services were<br />
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27<br />
NET ACTION: Air Force’s WGCDR Tony Wennerbom spikes <strong>the</strong> ball, set by FSGT Doug McCubbin,<br />
as APS player Brad Clark (in white) blocks it at <strong>the</strong> net during <strong>the</strong> Victorian inter-Service volleyball<br />
championships. Photo: WGCDR Wennerbom<br />
VIC volleyball still going<br />
strong for Air Force<br />
invited to compete on <strong>the</strong> first day<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> inter-Service competition.<br />
The Victorian Police (VICPOL),<br />
Melbourne Fire Brigade and<br />
Ambulance Victoria brought teams<br />
to RAAF Base Williams and joined<br />
Air Force, Army, Navy and APS,<br />
in <strong>the</strong> inaugural Victorian ADF-<br />
Emergency Services Volleyball<br />
Tournament.<br />
“The day was played in great<br />
spirit with a high standard <strong>of</strong> volleyball<br />
displayed by all teams,”<br />
WGCDR Wennerbom said.<br />
“After a full day <strong>of</strong> volleyball,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Fire Brigade just squeezed out<br />
Air Force for a play-<strong>of</strong>f against <strong>the</strong><br />
top team, VICPOL. In <strong>the</strong> end, <strong>the</strong><br />
police were too strong and came<br />
away <strong>the</strong> overall winners. The day<br />
was a great success and all teams<br />
are keen to hold <strong>the</strong> event again in<br />
2009.”<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>r details can be found at <strong>the</strong><br />
ADVA website: www.adfva.org
SPORT<br />
November 13, 2008<br />
CHASING HER DREAM: Nursing <strong>of</strong>ficer FLGOFF<br />
Marnie Ponton didn’t let <strong>the</strong> Malaysian humidity<br />
get in <strong>the</strong> way <strong>of</strong> her athletics training while in<br />
Butterworth to support Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima.<br />
She is preparing for <strong>the</strong> 3000m steeplechase and<br />
3000m flat event at <strong>the</strong> ADRAA track and field<br />
champs in January. Photos: AC Vasilis Solomou<br />
By Barry Rollings<br />
IN ATHLETICS training or<br />
competition, when <strong>the</strong> heat is on,<br />
FLGOFF Marnie Ponton knows<br />
that motivation is everything.<br />
The heat was well and truly on<br />
when she was part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> recent<br />
Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima 2008 in<br />
Malaysia, as a nurse <strong>from</strong> 3CSH<br />
<strong>from</strong> RAAF Base Richmond.<br />
But it did not stop her training<br />
for <strong>the</strong> 3000m steeplechase and<br />
3000m flat event at <strong>the</strong> coming<br />
Australian <strong>Defence</strong> Running and<br />
Athletics Association’s (ADRAA)<br />
track and field championships<br />
in January, and <strong>the</strong> Athletics<br />
Australia open championships in<br />
March.<br />
The <strong>Defence</strong> titles will be held<br />
at Landy Field in Geelong <strong>from</strong><br />
January 24 to 26 and <strong>the</strong> national<br />
titles will be held in Brisbane<br />
<strong>from</strong> March 19 to 21.<br />
There were no formal training<br />
facilities as such but when work<br />
allowed her, FLGOFF Ponton<br />
usually found some open ground<br />
on which to do some training in<br />
Inside: ■ Golf ■ Volleyball<br />
FULL<br />
TILT TO<br />
TITLES<br />
FLGOFF Marnie Ponton<br />
turns up <strong>the</strong> heat on training<br />
for <strong>the</strong> ADRAA champs<br />
during Ex <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima<br />
preparation for <strong>the</strong> 2008-09 athletics<br />
season now underway.<br />
“I was able to fit training in<br />
around work despite <strong>the</strong> heat,”<br />
FLGOFF Ponton said.<br />
“As long as I was willing to<br />
run in <strong>the</strong> heat, it was a matter<br />
<strong>of</strong> motivation and doing it<br />
in my spare time. If I knocked<br />
<strong>of</strong>f at midday I would make sure<br />
I would go for a run straight<br />
away.”<br />
Now back at home at<br />
Richmond, she continues to do<br />
<strong>the</strong> “hard yards”, running 80-<br />
90km a week to achieve her ambitions.<br />
So when <strong>the</strong> heat is on at competitive<br />
level, FLGOFF Ponton<br />
will be well prepared.<br />
Her nursing duties at<br />
Butterworth involved providing<br />
back-up support for both those<br />
medical people who were on<br />
exercise and those already based<br />
<strong>the</strong>re.<br />
For information on upcoming<br />
athletics events, see Page 26. For<br />
more on Exercise <strong>Bersama</strong> Lima,<br />
see Pages 14-15.<br />
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