exercise blackbird - Royal New Zealand Air Force

exercise 

blackbird 

Training in the mountains 

Air Force 

PeAcekeePers 

• afghanistan 

• timor-leste 

flight 

engineers 

in demand 

issue 128 

August 2011 | Royal New Zealand Air Force 

Air Force news 1

6 

10 

12 

14 

Air Force Peackeepers 

In Timor-Leste 

Flight engineers 

Still front and centre 

16 The Faces of exercise Blackbird 

Photo essay 

18 Leadership 

Resilience 

19 change of command 

Ground Training Wing 

20 

new squadrons 

No. 230 and No. 209 

22 From the Flightline 

Recent Air Activity 

23 

Contents 

exercise Blackbird 

in the mountains 

Air Force Peacekeepers 

in Bamyan Province 

Active reserve 

Reservist of the Year 2011 

2 Air Force news 

24 Book reviews 

important rnZAF stories 

25 

26 

28 

29 

30 

From the flightline 

recent Air Activity 

Air Force recruiting 

Using new technology 

esky the Bear 

Arrives home 

ohakea Air Movements 

Medal Presentation 

Joe Break 

Welcomes, farewells, promotions 

Our mission 

To carry out military air operations to advance 

New Zealand’s security interests with professionalism, 

integrity and teamwork. 

Air Force News is the official magazine of the Royal 

New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) —established to inform, 

educate, and entertain its personnel and friends. 

Published by 

Defence Communications Group 

HQ NZ Defence Force 

Wellington, New Zealand 

Editor 

Richard Jackson 

Pn 04-496-0289 

Fax 04-496-0290 

Email; airforcenews@nzdf.mil.nz 

Design and Layout 

Amy Trlin, Defence Communications Group 

Printed by 

Bluestar 

Private Bag 39996, Wellington 

Distribution 

Marianna Robati, Defence Communication Group 

Email: airforcenews@nzdf.mil.nz 

Air Force News is governed by an Editorial Board. Views 

expressed in the Air Force News are not necessarily those 

of the RNZAF or the New Zealand Defence Force. Defence 

regulations over-ride all content in the Air Force News. Editorial 

contributions and ideas are welcomed. They can be emailed 

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Contributions need to include 

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Contribution deadline for the September Issue 

Wednesday 10 August 2011 – 5PM 

Contribution deadline for the October Issue 

Monday 5 September 2011 – 5PM 

Air Force News will hold the copyright for submitted articles 

or photographs it publishes. Articles and photographs 

published in Air Force News cannot be published elsewhere 

without permission. 

ISSN 1175-2327 

CoveR imAge 

exercise Blackbird 2011, a 3 Squadron exercise 

held once a year at Dip Flat for the iroquois crews to 

practice their mountain flying.

First word 

First word 

By Air cDre Kevin short 

Deputy Chief of Air Force 

It has been many years since i had the opportunity to make a 

comment in air force news and it has also been some time since i 

had an air force job. 

i spent time as oc 485 Wing till 2006, was deployed to 

afghanistan, became assistant chief development in 2007—to 

again influence decisions on the air projects, and then took up the 

post of assistant chief strategic commitments and intelligence. i 

returned to the rnZaf and took up the position of dcaf last month. 

the air force has certainly changed. 

after a quick handover from aircdre gavin howse, i attended 

the air and space interoperability council (asic) national directors 

meeting in the Usa. this reinforced the rnZaf’s commitment to 

asic, as it is an important forum through which the rnZaf remains 

alert to opportunities to further enhance interoperability. 

i attended the air force leadership forum (aflf) in ohakea on 

15-16 June. this was a great opportunity to catch up on air force 

issues, meet key commanders and set the future course for the 

rnZaf. What a great forum. 

one highlight for me was the report from the ‘View from the 

engine room.’ fltlt kane sanson, sgt hemi Poipoi and cPl 

ob (raymond) o’brien’s presentations were inspiring. they had 

the confidence and courage to tell us about your opinions and 

concerns. i learnt a great deal about the current state of the rnZaf 

but most importantly i learnt that we have great young leaders 

coming through, as displayed by kane, hemi, and raymond. it was 

fascinating for me because i used to play rugby with raymond’s dad, 

Jimmy o’brien—what a likeness! 

i am looking forward to working with you all. You are the current 

and future leaders of the rnZaf. We need to be forever developing, 

learning and adapting. i encourage you to challenge what you do and 

the way you do it. so let’s think about how we can change and improve 

the work we do, think about the future, and use all those bright young 

men and women—like you—to move the rnZaf forward. 

i’ll take a leaf from general george Patton. he stated, “never tell 

people how to do things. tell them what to do and they will surprise 

"remember that we are not at war, 

but those in uniform can expect to be 

deployed for operations at any time.” 

you with their ingenuity.” i expect to see lots of ingenuity. 

i challenge you to look for ways to improve the products we 

produce, to improve the processes used to get there, and to make 

this an enjoyable and rewarding work environment—for that will be 

key to our success. i want to create a climate where your worth is 

determined by your willingness to learn new skills and take on new 

responsibilities! 

communication is another key factor. i want you all to be 

effective communicators, just like those three young men at the 

aflf and to be able to effectively communicate decisions, actions 

and results to the rnZaf. 

i also encourage you to set yourself some personal goals. 

remember that we are not at war, but those in uniform can expect 

to be deployed for operations at any time, so balance your job and 

home life with appropriate priorities. keep your work effort and 

priorities balanced. there will be times when you will be required to 

work long hours or be away from your family—for exercises, peace 

support operations or training. the ribbons that many of you wear 

already show significant operational commitment to the rnZaf. 

i would like to finish with a little advice. You are the people who 

make the rnZaf function. You make it happen and you set the 

example for others to follow. i expect you to provide guidance, 

direction and oversight to your personnel and to others in the air 

force so that they may also succeed. so i want you to remember 

three key points: 

• make the rnZaf a desired place to work in—both effective and 

enjoyable; 

• take responsibility for, and ownership of, your particular area; and 

• as leaders, let’s move the rnZaf forward. 

i look forward to meeting you over the coming months. 


Briefings 

Kiwi personnel perform a haka at the 

transition ceremony in Bamyan. 

transition ceremonY 

in bamYan, afghanistan 

the chief of defence force, ltgen 

rhys Jones, said it was “a proud day for 

the defence force” when on 17 July the 

first transition ceremony was held in 

afghanistan to transfer provincial-level 

security and responsibility back to afghan 

control. responsibility for all aspects 

of afghanistan’s government services 

is now being passed to its citizens— 

responsibility for national security will 

move from the nato-led international 

security assistance force by late 2014. 

“the nZdf has played a key role in the 

bamyan province since 2003, where we 

have led the Provincial reconstruction 

team, and we will continue to play 

a significant leadership role until 

the afghanis assume final control,” 

ltgen Jones said. “to support the 

transition process, our government 

has committed the services of new 

Zealanders through to 2014; including 

training the afghan national Police to 

take over the role currently performed 

by nZdf military patrols.” 

the 17 July transition ceremony was 

attended by government ministers from 

kabul, the bamyan governor, provincial 

officials, the nZ ambassador Justin 

fepuleai and the ambassadors from the 

Usa and Japan, as well as representatives 

of isaf and aid agencies. the ceremony 

culminated with a haka by the nZPrt 


maori cultural group, who challenged 

the afghanistan national security forces 

in bamyan to take the lead on security 

matters within the Province 

our cdf said, “i want to acknowledge 

that this achievement has not been made 

without cost and we remember tim 

o’donnell and kirifi mila. We can be proud 

of the contribution made by all those who 

have served in bamyan to achieve this 

milestone and return peace and stability 

to the people of bamyan.” 

currently 196 nZdf personnel lead an 

international group made up of military 

and civilians from nZ and Us, a medical 

contingent from the malaysian armed 

forces, as well as civilian police including 

four from new Zealand operating under 

eUPol authority. [See feature article 

page10.] 

NZ Ambassador to Afghanistan Justin Fepuleai 

promises continued support to Bamyan Province. 

neW chief 

oPerating 

oFFicer For 

oUr defence 

Force 

the chief of defence force announced 

on 14 July that he had appointed William 

Peet as the chief operating officer (coo) 

of the defence force. the new position 

was signalled in the defence White Paper 

and the coo will chair defence force 

leadership board sub-committees and 

be responsible for organisational change, 

using frameworks from a commercial 

environment. this will free up the military 

commanders to focus on military matters. 

mr Peet has been appointed for a 

five-year term, and has status equal 

to Vice chief of defence force. he has 

had a successful career in the railways 

sector, with 13 years’ experience as a 

senior executive with the nZ railways 

corporation, trans rail ltd, and toll new 

Zealand. he is experienced in managing 

large complex organisations through 

change. mr Peet has also seen nZdf 

overseas deployments at first hand, 

having spent the past two years working 

as a consultant for the new Zealand aid 

Programme (nZaid). he has been to 

afghanistan, and has seen our troops in 

action in bamyan Province. 

ltgen Jones commented, “William 

Peet will bring fresh thinking into the 

nZdf. his appointment is the last of 

the changes to the senior leadership 

team—we we are now in a position to 

begin implementing the reforms and drive 

towards our vision for 2015 and beyond.”

Briefings 

SQNLDR Scott accepts his award from the US Ambassador. 

FLTLT Jones accepts his award from Ambassador Huebner. 

american 

ambassador’s 

exemPlarY 

serVice aWard 

on the 4th of July, the Us ambassador 

david huebner awarded seven 

cantabrians who helped a Us delegation 

in the aftermath of the 22 february 

earthquake. a large delegation of Us 

leaders, businesspeople, and academics 

was in christchurch for the Us-nZ 

Partnership Forum on the day of the 

6.3 quake. the delegation was spread 

throughout the city and the ambassador 

said that “in the chaotic aftermath it 

became imperative to locate, gather and 

evacuate the delegation.” he said that 

would have been impossible without the 

dedicated courage shown by many people. 

• simon mckenzie, driver, leopard coach; 

• John goldie, driver, ViP transport, 

Visits and ceremonial office; 

• heather caspersen, driver, ViP 

transport, Visits and ceremonial office; 

• flight lieutenant Vaughn Jones, rnZaf; 

• Warrant officer Warren tyndall, rnZaf; 

• squadron leader andy scott, rnZaf; 

and 

• senior constable thomas "blue" Young, 

new Zealand Police. 

ambassador huebner said at that 

recognising those individuals "is our tribute 

to the whole community's bravery, on that 

day in february, and every day since." 

consUltation begins on 

medals for militarY serVice 

in soUth-east asia 

the government has directed a Joint 

Working group to review medallic 

recognition for military service in southeast 

asia from 1950 to the current day. 

the public consultation phase of this 

review started last month and continues 

until 23 august. 

many military personnel who served 

in south-east asia from 1950 onwards 

did not receive operational service 

medals, especially for service in malaysia 

and singapore after 1965. this was due 

to decisions at the time that the level of 

military threat to the deployed personnel 

was too low to justify the award of a medal. 

“a government project is now 

underway to establish whether any 

grounds exist for overturning previous 

decisions on this matter. former and 

current military personnel will now have 

the opportunity to comment on the 

appropriate medallic recognition for 

When the new nZ Defence 

service Medal was first 

presented back in April, 

SQNLDR Bill Hopper (Rtd) 

was among those presented 

the NZDSM. Readers may 

remember Bill for his work 

with RNZAF public relations 

1966-82. Applications for the 

NZDSM are still being taken 

from those over 70. 

their service in south-east asia,” said the 

chief of defence force. “this review is 

part of the government’s commitment to 

ensure military personnel receive suitable 

recognition for their service”. 

the Joint Working group is chaired 

by former secretary of foreign affairs 

and trade neil Walter. it includes 

representatives from the defence 

force, the rnZrsa, Veterans’ affairs 

new Zealand and an observer from the 

honours Unit, department of Prime 

minister and cabinet. Public consultation 

closes on 23 august 2011, and the 

working group expects to report back to 

the government by 31 october 2011. 

the consultation documents will be 

distributed via the rnZrsa affiliates 

network, and can also be viewed and 

downloaded from the new Zealand 

defence force medals website: http:// 

medals.nzdf.mil.nz 


exercises 

exeRCIse 

blaCkbIRD 

expanDs 

skIlls anD 

expeRtIse 

the mountains around 

saint arnaud became the 

backdrop for 80 RnZaF 

personnel for two weeks in 

July as no. 3 squadron and 

expeditionary support 

squadron (ess) conducted 

exercise blackbird. 


By Vivienne sanders 

Air Force Senior Communications Adviser 

Helicopter Crewman F/S ‘Sparrow’ 

Gaskin looks out the helo door as his 

Iroquois hovers over the snow. 

In extReMe weatheR conditions, four iroquois helicopters 

and two rotations (nearly 80 personnel) took part in the rnZaf’s 

annual mountain flying exercise on dip flat, near rainbow ski field 

at the northern end of the south island. despite being hampered 

by squally weather, low cloud and fresh snow, personnel focussed 

on their training. 

the purpose of exercise blackbird is to train and maintain 

competency and currency for mountain flying in the southern alps, 

where the terrain is significantly higher. the exercise is designed 

to expose crew to operating in extreme conditions in a controlled 

environment. readiness and resilience are all-important for 

those taking part, as is the role of ess with medics, refuellers and 

communication and information systems (cis) personnel deployed, 

20110708_oh_k1028063_0052 Photos: ac maria oosterbaan

In clear skies an Iroquois heads 

off on another sortie. 

Well wrapped against the 

cold, FGOFF George McInnes 

prepares for a flight. 

along with force Protection teams to ensure the security of the site. 

as a training area, fltlt gareth kemeys said, operating from 

dip flat “allows us to build skills that we would use on search and 

rescue missions in new Zealand and flying techniques that can be 

transferred to other environments such as east timor or the Pacific. 

the aircraft is operating at or near its maximum capacity and control 

authority can be challenging in conditions such as these. that’s why 

it’s important to practice and maintain our skills.” 

two pilots and one crewman is the standard crew for an iroquois 

by day, but by night it’s two pilots and two crewmen, due to the 

team operating under night vision rules—a much harder regime 

of flight. the goggles reduce their view down to 35 degrees and 

all peripheral vision is lost. night Vision goggles are “like looking 

through two tubes,” says gareth. the crewmen on each side help 

the pilots see more. 

“the skill set you get from exercise blackbird can be transferred 

to other environments. it’s particularly relevant to flying conditions 

20110716_oh_k1023900_0021 20110708_oh_k1028063_0025 

20110708_oh_k1028063_0102 

20110716_oh_k1023900_0035 

FLTLT Gareth Kemeys. 

in timor-leste. for example, timor is hot and high. so the 

Iroquois clears a ridge. 

"The skill set you get from exercise Blackbird 

can be transferred to other environments.” 

techniques used for flying with limited power in timor-leste or 

new Zealand can be similar. from 20c in the southern alps to 440c in 

timor, the way the aircraft operates in extreme conditions is similar. 

“While the pilots fly the aircraft in the mountainous terrain, the 

crewmen are looking to call the aircraft onto the terrain. this is an 

important skill. they explain the terrain underneath as the pilot 

flies the aircraft onto the ridge so that no damage is done to the 

skids or undercarriage. 

“and then of course you’ve got the maintenance team. they are 

operating in a deployed environment where it’s cold, so working 

through the night making sure the aircraft is serviceable calls for a 

lot of determination.” 




CaptaIn wIll GeResbeCk, 

GeRMan aRMy 

caPt geresbeck is one of two german 

exchange pilots flying with no.3 

squadron. in germany the army operates 

tactical helicopters while the air force 

operates fixed wing combat aircraft and 

transports. during his two years so far in 

nZ (he is on a 3 year posting) he has flown 

in exercise blackbird before, as well as 

flown on exercises in samoa and australia. 

With the german army, he had flown on 

operations in bosnia, and he took part in the nato intervention in 

kosovo in 2000. he explained that german mountain flying training 

is conducted in the french Pyrenees: “mountain flying is about 

knowing how much power you have to make a safe landing up there. 

it’s more demanding than flying in a flat area, you have to be more 

careful and sensitive with the controls.” 

sub lIeutenant benny MelvIlle 

RnZn 

slt benny melville spent a year in the 

navy undergoing basic training before 

he was posted to ohakea to start flight 

training on the ct4-e airtrainer. he was 

posted to no. 3 squadron in early 2009 

where he trained on both the sioux and 

iroquois helicopters. after graduating 

from iroquois Pilot conversion course 

in early 2010, benny has been building up 

experience on the iroquois before he will 

be transferred to no. 6 squadron (seasprites). “flying in mountains 

like these is a pretty special experience, you quickly realise how 

small and insignificant the aircraft really is. the aircrew have an 

opportunity to build up valuable skills in a controlled manner, which 

in turn builds confidence in each other and in the aircraft. although 

the exercise only lasts a couple of weeks, the buzz felt from 

mountain flying lasts a lot longer.” 

Studying the map before a mission (l to r): 

CAPT Lars Hilgert, FGOFF George McInnes 

& FGOFF Bryce Morgan. 

20110708_oh_k1028063_0034 

20110706_oh_k1028063_0026 

Iroquois lifts off from 

a mountain valley. 

laC JulIa baIRD 

after six years in the nZ army, Julia 

moved to the rnZaf and completed 

the senior course at Woodbourne, and 

became a qualified cis technician. 

Julia’s specialisation is in radio 

communications. five cis personnel 

were deployed for the exercise. Julia 

says the exercise provided her with 

more training and the opportunity to 

gain competence in the trade working 

with squadrons on deployment in a 

challenging environment. Part of her role on the exercise was to 

set up the radio antennae, which serve as the primary means for 

communicating with the aircraft. choosing the right antenna is 

all-important says Julia, so you don’t have communication loss due 

to operating conditions. she also set up discone antenna which is 

used for Vhf communications around the local area when aircraft 

is coming into land and taking off. 

“one of the best things about being on this exercise is the 

experience you get working with a squadron and to experience all 

the elements working together. You also get the opportunity to 

make new friends, which is great,” Julia explained. 

20110705_oh_k1028063_0042

Helicopter Crewman SGT Karl Borck looking at 

the terrain as the aircraft approaches to land. 

Managing change 

defence transformation 

after nearly three years, an estimated $100 

million of benefits, 250 personnel freed up for 

re-deployment and some 2,500 consulted 

or moved into new structures, the defence 

transformation Programme has closed its 

doors. 

shane goodwin, dtP Programme 

director, said the dtP had delivered most of 

what it set out to do, and had set a platform 

from which defence can deliver future 

change. 

“it’s been a long journey—and not always 

an easy one—but we have achieved a 

huge amount,” he explained. “as everyone 

involved in a programme worked hard to 

finish at the end of June, it was easy to lose 

sight of how much has changed since the 

programme started in 2009.” 

dtP was set up with three change 

Programmes: 

• human resources management, 

• headquarters and, 

• logistics. 

a fourth work stream was added in 

mid-2010, to develop a business case for a 

human resource management information 

system. this is now continuing under 

capability branch . 

the dtP established new functional units: 

• defence logistics command for 

consolidated logistics 

• training and education directorate 

(ted) with three arms, four joint 

schools, and common training 

packages 

• defence Personnel executive (dPe), 

with centres of expertise around 

specialist hr functions 

• the defence force hr service centre 

(hrsc) for hr admin and pay 

• nZdf capability branch 

• nZdf recruiting organisation. 

as well as structural changes, process 

standardisation and simplification have 

supported the reduction in personnel and 

also driven operational expenditure savings. 

shane pointed out that there is still a lot 

for the new leadership teams in the new 

functions to do, to stabilise and consolidate 

the changes made. 

“the dtP will have a long-lasting effect on 

the defence force, not least in the exposure 

it has given the personnel on the programme 

to different ways of thinking and working. 

dtP has put key building blocks in place that 

will enable our strategic reform programme 

to achieve even more change,” he says. 

all the full-time military personnel who 

were working on the dtP have now returned 

to their service. most of the contractors’ 

work has been completed, but about 30 dtP 

staff with specialist skills are staying on for a 

few months. 

shane said they will finish work on the 

training and education directorate, the 

second phase of the hr service centre 

project, help bed in the changes arising 

from the hr advisory project and, finish 

implementation of the new defence 

recruiting organisation. 

“one of the lessons learned by defence 

during dtP was that managing change is 

something we need expertise in, so defence 

is planning to retain a 10-person team of 

change and communications experts to help 

with the transition and with the next wave of 

changes to come from the strategic reform 

Programme.” 

TED anD ThE aIr FOrCE 

The rnZaF is well represented within 

TED: 

• WGCDR Mike Salvador (CO of the 

Defence Training Institute) 

• SQNLDR Adam Bogg (Head of 

Learning Solutions) responsible for 

training design 

• SQNLDR Mark Brewer 

(Rationalisation Cell Team Leader) 

for common training provision, and 

• Mr Mike Naus, Woodbourne, is in the 

External Relations and Qualifications 

team as Qualifications Developer 

(South). 

External Relations and Qualifications 

opportunities will allow rnZaF trainees 

to gain access to a greater range of 

vocational qualifications. 

TED aims to implement some rnZaF 

systems, procedures and software 

already in use at Ground Training Wing, 

across the NZDF. Central scheduling 

and coordination of courses (similar to 

that of Training Plans at GTW) will allow 

training staff to focus on instructing. 

Training design support will increase, to 

address the current backlog of projects 

for updating training documentation, 

as well as to support the introduction of 

the new capabilities. 


Peacekeepers 

nZ Development work 

in bamyan province 

By sQnLDr John Barrack 

Royal New Zealand Air Force 

An NZ Light Armoured Vehicle towed a disabled US Army Apache helicopter from 101st Airborne Division 

into Kiwi base for repairs, after FOD damage on 20 June. The NZPRT workshop team manufactured a 

tow bar, and one of our LAVs pulled the 8 tonne helicopter across the airfield, over a ditch and up the hill 

into Kiwi base. With a limited threshold for sideways tilt, the tow required a lot of ground preparation and 

load-spreading using sheets of plywood. US maintenance Crew Chief, SGT Judy Beltowski praised the 

ingenuity and quick action of the NZPRT personnel. But she wouldn’t let us keep the helo! 

SQNLDR John Barrack with Commander Nabi, 

who posed bareheaded specially for the photo. 


20110706_Wn_c1022490_001 

SQNLDR Barrack with Afghan officials 

on a new culvert in Yakawlang District. 

20110706_Wn_c1022490_002 

The NZPRT Q Store team are responsible for 

refuelling transiting helicopters; here (l to r) SSGT 

White, CPL Ben Hardie RNZAF, SGT Reid & PTE Hand 

after refuelling two Chinooks and this Apache.

20110523_Wn_c1022490_001 

Peacekeepers 

I'M halF way through my criB 18 

deployment as nZdf development 

officer (the s5) in the nZ Provincial 

reconstruction team (nZPrt), bamyan*. 

bamyan is an economically poor, but 

culturally and historically rich and majestic 

part of afghanistan. 

on the ground our team is much more 

than those of us who trained at linton 

military camp. in addition to the military 

personnel there are government civilian 

staff, locally employed staff, and contractors, and all are working on 

their parts of the operation for the international security assistance 

force (isaf) to support the afghanistan government. 

our goal is to assist the legitimate, democratically elected 

government of the islamic republic of afghanistan (giroa) as it 

increases its capacity to govern and support its citizens. this involves 

giroa gradually taking full responsibility for security, governance 

and development, as we'd expect from the government of any nation. 

giroa is moving towards being able to protect its citizens, prosecute 

and punish criminals, develop infrastructure, and equip a civil service 

to deliver what we in new Zealand take for granted. 

Previous s5's have put a great deal into delivering infrastructure 

within bamyan Province. With the assistance of Us military and Us 

government civilian teams within the Prt, and with funding from 

the governments of Usa, Japan and nZ, much effort has gone into 

building roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, police stations, and other 

government assets necessary for economic and social wellbeing. 

the nZPrt is now working on building up the ability and capacity of 

giroa to provide the necessities of community living. 

the nZ funds cover only a small portion of nZPrt 

development work. the majority of expenditure has come from 

the Us government, via the Us army commander's emergency 

response Programme and, the department of state Us agency 

for international development (Usaid). non-governmental 

organisations (ngos) also work in partnership with us to maximise 

the effect that can be delivered with available funds. 

civil–military cooperation is evident here in bamyan both 

internally and externally. the nZPrt's development group 

comprises half civilian and half military personnel and there are many 

civilian employees and contracted staff working within the Prt too. 

beyond the perimeter wire the local government officials and staff, 

as well as contractors and ngos, all work in an informal partnership 

with cooperation, patience and plenty of good will, to achieve 

progress for the people of bamyan. 

aWaY from home 

we aRe a long way from home and at times the separation is very 

real, yet i have the same connectivity with email, internet and phone 

as i would have at rnZaf base ohakea. Waiting for mail accentuates 

the distance, while not being able 'to have and to hold' my wife and to 

be with family and friends is a burden i accepted, and i know there are 

others in the military for whom long separations are routine. 

We don't lack for anything here at kiwi base. there's a good 

atmosphere amongst the people here and we know that we're all 

in it together so there's an overarching sense of cooperation. i'm 

surrounded by army folk, both nZ and american, yet i don't think of 

on this deployment we have two distinct phases of operations. 

initially we focused on completing projects left by earlier rotations; 

there's a prioritised list of projects. there's nothing unusual in that, 

as it's been the pattern for a long time. current projects with nZ 

(ministry of foreign affairs and trade) funding are: 

• the renovation and upgrade of a basic health clinic, 

• a school extension and 

• a dormitory for bamyan teachers training college. 

engineering officer lt bonnie howes plays a key role in managing 

these projects, particularly with regards to progressive inspections 

which are required to ensure the quality of the work is up to the 

standard we've contracted. 

as well, i've started working with Provincial government staff 

to assist them in managing their own projects and programmes. 

it takes longer helping someone do a job with which we're familiar 

with, than it does to do it yourself, but this way we leave behind the 

skills that will assist them in the future. future nZdf development 

officers will likely spend much of their time focusing more on 

capacity building amongst bamyan officials. 

i have been more involved in field work, dealing with local 

community leaders. this has been a particularly rewarding part of 

the job as i have travelled through much of our area of operation and 

have met some very interesting people working with the Prt to help 

their villages. 

one of my lasting impressions will be of commander nabi, a tall, 

engaging man with a friendly look and hearty laugh who arrived for a 

meeting on a 125cc motorcycle, typical transport of individuals and 

families alike (the most people i've seen on one small motorbike is 

four!) We had a good meeting where i appreciated his candour and 

sense of humour. When we finished our meeting i asked for a photo 

to which he agreed, and when i took my hat off to avoid shading my 

eyes he laughed and had no hesitation in whipping his turban off to 

match me, a most unusual act which amused the bystanders. 

a previous rotation had proposed that funding be provided 

for the head of the Yakawlang district development assembly, 

mohammad amir Paien, to hire contractors to build some culverts 

and a dam, but mohammad had not been able to get quotes within 

Prt guidelines. i met with him, explained what he needed to do and 

suggested some contractors; he came up with a fourth contractor, 

whose quotes were under budget and who was given the work. 

mohammad kept an eye on the project and even made them pull one 

culvert apart and do it again as the quality wasn't up to scratch. 

While only a small example, you have to start somewhere. 

* See Air Force News 125, May 2011 

them as army, any more than i think of myself as air force—we 

are a team. even during pre-deployment training where i learned 

some new skills and different ways of getting to the same end 

result, i felt part of a team preparing for the mission, and that 

sense of purpose has continued. 

While six months sounds like a long time to be away from 

home, and it is, it's surprising how quickly those months pass— 

this unique opportunity to work with fascinating people in an 

intriguing part of the world keeps us fully occupied! 

The other RNZAF personnel currently deployed in the 

NZPRT are FgoFF R J Dent, CPL D g Carney, CPL B A Hardie 

and CPL A B Oxenham. 


Peacekeepers 

tIMoR-leste 

our Defence Force has supported various operations in 

timor-leste since InteRFet in 1999. 

then, no.40 sqn played an important role in the air-bridge that 

first took australian troops, british ghurkas and our sas into 

what was then east timor. in addition, no 3 sqn had a helicopter 

detachment deployed to e timor for some years. 

the United nations integrated mission in timor-leste (Unimit) 

was established in 2006 and is tasked with supporting the timorleste 

government and security institutions including the falintilforças 

de defesa de timor-leste (f-fdtl, the timor-leste 

defence force) and Policia nacional de timor-leste (Pntl, the 

national Police of timor-leste). 

the international stabilisation force (isf) comprised of nearly 

500 personnel from the new Zealand and australian defence 

forces, has evolved from a security role to capacity building for 

the national defence force and the Police. in march 2011, the Un 

Wgcdr sam leske 

the senIoR natIonal oFFICeR (sno) is Wing commander sam 

leske rnZaf who commands the nZdf personnel in timor-leste. 

originally from Picton, he’s been in the air force for nearly 20 years 

and had previously deployed to timor-leste. 

“i deployed at the start of 2011 as the nZ sno in timor- 

leste and i also have the role as the deputy commander of 

the australian-led international stabilisation force. When the 

australian commander is away i command the whole force of 450 

defence personnel from australia and new Zealand. the deputy 

commander role involves liaising with senior members of the Un 

Police force, the Police force of timor leste (Pntl), the timor 

leste defence force (f-fdtl) and representatives of the Un and 

other government of timor leste officials. 

“my daily routine normally involves physical training in the morning, 

briefings on the state of the force and activities that are occurring. 

the rest of day is usually filled by meetings with Un or timor leste 

officials and visits to members of the isf. the evening is used filled 

with report writing and catching up with emails and other paperwork. 

“the highlight is working with the people of timor leste, 

especially the people in the villages and in the f-fdtl, the timorleste 

defence force. they are all very friendly—they have vibrancy 

and a desire to build a stable and prosperous nation. 

“my other highlight is working alongside the adf—we have a 

very close working relationship and it’s an awesome opportunity to 

be able to work in a combined new Zealand and australian force. it 

is a real privilege serving on an overseas operation and more so to 

command it. We have highly talented and highly trained personnel 

in our defence force and see them using the skills they have in an 

operational context makes me very proud. 


welcomed the transfer of responsibilities for all police operations 

back to the Policia nacional de timor-leste. 

the nZdf contribution to timor-leste is 80 personnel: 

• a senior national officer. 

• a light infantry group of 67 personnel. 

• one military observer with the United nations mission in 

timor-leste. 

• five advisors with the f-fdtl: a logistics officer, two 

personnel Policy officers, one english as a second language 

instructor and a small arms instructor. 

the current nZ infantry contingent is made up of personnel 

from 1st battalion royal new Zealand infantry regiment and 

supporting units. the kiwis conduct patrols throughout timorleste 

to engage with the local population and report their security, 

economic and health concerns. 

WGCDR Leske at ISAF 

Camp Phoenix. 

"The highlight is working with the people 

of Timor Leste, especially the local people 

in the villages and in the F-FDTL, the Timor- 

Leste Defence Force." 

“the biggest challenge is being away from the family. it’s quite 

tough missing out on my kids’ special events; the good thing is we 

have the internet and can keep in contact regularly. 

“timor leste has a very rich culture. the country has had some 

very rough periods in its history and now they have to establish all of 

the institutions we take for granted. they have a will and a desire to 

succeed and are very thankful for the help we are able to give. 

“We get waved at with smiles and often a “kia ora kiwi”. most 

members of the nZdf who serve here have a deep affection for 

timor-leste and its people—we can see the progress the country is 

making. they are a remarkable people with a very bright future.” 

20110517adf8164101_002 

SQNLDR Simmons 

at a school. 

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20110603_Wn_c1022490_004 

Peacekeepers 

sQnldr mUrraY simons 

FLT LT Ross. 

sQnlDR MuRRay sIMons rnZaf, from auckland, deployed just 

three months ago to timor-leste. he has been in the air force for 21 

years and had previously deployed to the middle east. 

“my role as a military liaison officer (mlo) is to be the United 

nations’ eyes and ears on the ground—to ‘observe and report’. We 

provide independent reporting on the various triggers of conflict, 

or on human crises. this includes border patrols, ad hoc incident 

reporting, and routine meetings with village chiefs to assess food, 

economic, infrastructure, political, and physical security threats. our 

reports are analysed for both critical situations and trends leading to 

critical situations. 

“finding my way around in the jungle with only large-scale maps 

has been a challenge! i have been appointed deputy team leader 

and was in fact the acting team leader for the first month—not 

uncommon for native english speakers on Un missions (the same 

thing happened to me in lebanon). i have also been asked join a new 

mentoring programme for timorese officers who hope to serve on 

Un missions themselves. 

“in addition to my official duties, i volunteer to teach english 

to local and international Un staff. a highlight so far is seeing the 

enthusiasm of young kids in the schools. they are the future of this 

country and seem desperate to get an education—most walk over an 

hour each way just to attend classes. 

“With the impending 2012 elections, this country will continue its 

road to transition. the international community has done a great job 

in nurturing this fledgling nation. it is an honour to be a small part of 

this historic nation-building process.” 

“as a father of a young family (two children), i am looking forward 

to getting back with my family to make the most of those precious 

moments in the kids’ formative years. 

fltlt Jen ross 

FlIGht lIeutenant Jen Ross rnZaf, from Wellington, has been in 

the air force for 15 years. this is her second deployment to timor-leste. 

“i am the staff officer responsible for the management of all 

deployed communication systems and personnel. this ranges from 

providing access to our network so our personnel can complete tasks 

on their work computers, right through to ensuring the serviceability 

of our internet and welfare phones. i am also the second-incommand 

when our officer commanding is absent. 

“highlights so far include the weather and working on my 

fitness—safely away from the usual temptations of chocolate and 

red wine! it was a challenge getting my head around the army way of 

doing things, but i had a thorough handover and soon got into a daily 

routine. i hope to have foxtel installed in preparation for the rugby 

World cup in september. 

“the people are really friendly and the kids are just adorable— 

smiles from ear to ear. i am picking up some useful phrases but 

getting the pronunciation right can be a challenge! i’m looking 

forward to returning home in time for the nZ summer, to my 

wonderful husband (who is also in the air force), running with my dog 

and cuddling the cat!” 

marathon in timor-leste 

Pictured: the nZ ambassador to timor-leste, his excellency tony 

fautua (l) with the australian ambassador, his excellency miles 

armitage (r) and maJ renee kidson adf after the June ‘run for 

Peace’. Personnel from the international stabilisation force had joined 

thousands of local and international competitors in the dili city of Peace 

marathon event in timor-leste. runners, including the President of 

timor-leste, dr. Jose ramos-horta, competed in three categories: the 

42 km marathon, 21 km half marathon and a 7 km run for Peace. 

While most entered the run for Peace, five ran the full marathon 

and 14 completed the half marathon, including deputy commander 

of the isf, Wing commander sam leske rnZaf. Wgcdr leske said 

the involvement of isf personnel came from a strong desire to join 

with the people of timor-leste in a major international event that 

also had important local significance. he said it was an extremely 

positive sign of the progress being made in timor-leste over recent 

years. “new Zealand acknowledges the efforts of the government of 

timor-leste and the people of timor-leste in achieving the stable 

conditions being experienced.” 


operational capability 

Flight engineers 

still Front and Centre 

By sGT Tony strugnell 

Air Engineer, No.5 Sqn 

An RNZAF C-130 takes off from 

Bamyan, Afghanistan. 

with the introduction of the hercules life extension 

programme and the p-3k2, our air Force’s Flight engineers 

(or air engineers as they are titled in the RnZaF) are at the 

forefront of an exciting new era. 

the hIstoRy oF air engineers* can be traced back to the earliest 

multi-engine aircraft with mechanics routinely flying on long 

distance flights to fine tune engines in-flight and carry out running 

repairs. the position was formalised on long-range flying boats in 

the 1930s when it was necessary to have the engines monitored 

constantly to achieve the best possible performance. the second 

World War bought about a massive demand for aircrew on heavy 

bombers and maritime patrol aircraft, with thousands of air 

engineers being trained to operate these complex aircraft. 

this demand continued with the post-war boom in the airline 

industry; flight engineers were required on large passenger aircraft 

until the late 1980s, when increased computerization and costcutting 

by airlines started to reduce the requirement for civilian 

flight engineers. this process continued over the next twenty years 

as new aircraft types came into service, so now relatively few civilian 

flight engineers remain worldwide. 

* Outside the RNZAF, and in American terms, we are called Flight 

Engineers. The Air Force calls us Air Engineers (a tradition from the 

RAF) to differentiate us from Engineering Officers. On the aircraft we 

are just called ‘Engineers’. 


despite this, military flight engineers continue to be in demand 

due in part to the number of older aircraft used by many air forces, as 

well as the unique demands of military aviation. rnZaf air engineers 

currently fly on the orion and the hercules. although there are 

differences in the way the two aircraft operate the core duties are 

the same on both types. 

the engineer is usually the first crew member to arrive at the 

aircraft, to inspect the aircraft and test vital systems. they then 

calculate aircraft performance, a critical aspect when operating at 

heavy weights from small airfields in adverse conditions. 

in flight, the engineer reports directly to the aircraft captain and 

is responsible for operating aircraft systems such as engines, fuel, 

hydraulics, pressurization and electrical systems. during critical 

evolutions—take offs, landings or tactical flights—the engineer’s 

task requires excellent situational awareness. 

however, the air engineers really earn their money when things 

go wrong. for minor malfunctions the engineer provides advice to 

the captain on rectification or how the malfunction can be mitigated 

to accomplish the mission. during aircraft emergencies the engineer 

takes coordinated action with the rest of the crew to ensure the 

safe recovery of the aircraft. realistic simulator training is carried 

Wn 06-0160-05

operational capability 

out to ensure that air engineers are prepared for dynamic in-flight 

emergencies such as engine fires, aborted take-offs or major 

systems failures. 

in addition, air engineers hold a maintenance certification allowing 

them to carry out minor rectification and servicing when deployed. 

the P-3k2 and hercules leP aircraft have not only retained 

their air engineers, but have also introduced new technology. 

this requirement ensures a bright future for the air engineer’s 

trade within our air force. Whether it’s flying troops into 

afghanistan, hunting submarines off malaysia or helping with 

disaster relief, the rnZaf’s air engineers will continue to be an 

integral part of our operations. 

rnZaf air engineers are internally recruited from qualified 

aircraft and avionics technicians with at least two years’ experience 

following their technicians course. experience on hercules or 

orions is not a requirement, as comprehensive type-specific 

training is given. if you think this challenging trade might be for you 

just have a chat with the friendly engineers at no. 40 sqn, no. 5 sqn 

or the team at the directorate of career management. 

FLTLT Jed Hopkins 

in the centre seat 

on a C-130. 

boeing 727s and 757s 

boeing 727s, like most airliners of their time, required a flight 

engineer as part of their flight crew. in the rnZaf our 727s were 

replaced in 2003 with the 757-200. 

the 757 was the first large commercial airliner in the Usa that 

didn't require a flight engineer; a number of the functions that had 

required an engineer were automated and with parallel automation 

of the pilots’ systems it was agreed by the aviation authorities 

that two people could do most of the things that had previously 

required three. in addition the computerised kit on commercial 

757s actually communicates automatically with ground personnel. 

if there are any problems on the aircraft in flight then they can 

advise the crew from the ground. 

20110415_ak_n1015025_0006 

The view from the 

Air Engineer’s seat 

in a P-3K Orion. 

An RNZAF B727 

seen in 2003 before 

the type went out 

of service. 

in 2007-09 the two rnZaf boeing 757s underwent conversion 

from an all-passenger configuration to a multi-role “combi” 

configuration. this conversion included: 

• installation of a main deck cargo door, loading system and 

cargo barrier net retention system 

• provisions for voice communications using satcom 

• a cabin lan to provide internet access using satcom 

• modification of the power plants to rolls royce e4b standard. 

because our 757s don't have a flight engineer, we always 

carry at least two maintenance personnel on them, to carry out 

inspections and refuels (something that on our previous 727s, the 

flight engineer did!) in civil aviation, the recent retirement of dhl’s 

last boeing 727 has marked the end of commercial flight engineers 

in new Zealand. 

ak 02-0412-14 



AC Kurt Eves performing the daily 

morning checks on an Iroquois. 

the faces of 

exercise blackbird 

Photos: LAc Amanda Mcerlich & Ac Maria oosterbaan 

When there is snow, 

then someone has to 

throw snowballs! 


20110714_oh_k1023900_0012 

20110712_oh_k1023900_0017 

Firefighters, CPL Nick 

Symonds(l) and LAC 

Tim Wilson, stand by at 

the landing zone. 

AC Neil Borthwick 

cleans the windows of 

an Iroquois at the end 

of the day’s flying. 

Military Working Dog 

'Piper' on the alert.

20110712_oh_k1023900_0055 

20110704_oh_k1028063_0022 

AC Matt Lawrence 

services a satellite 

dish receiver. 

AC Kurt 

Eves on the 

confidence 

course in the 

snow. 

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20110712_oh_k1023900_0016 

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i 20110712_oh_k1023900_0047 

20110711_oh_k1023900_0012 

CPL Macca McGrath 

attempts one of the 

obstacles on the 

confidence course. 

FLT LT Mary Woolston 

enjoys the snow. 

LAC Adam Van Gelder 

has had enough of 

the cold! 


Leadership 

No 3 Sqn detachment in the 

Solomons during Op Rata. 

what does resilience 

mean to you? 

By squadron Leader Maurice Jennings 

Defence Personnel executive 

the ChIeF oF air force recently conveyed his vision for the 

rnZaf: ‘ready, resilient & respected’. the word ‘resilient’ caught my 

attention. resilience captures a range of factors that enable a person 

to successfully cope with change. simply put, it’s the ability to get 

back up again and to keep going when faced with stress and setbacks. 

Psychological research has shown resilience is associated with 

improved general well-being along with less distress and illness. 

in the military context, resilience is related to higher levels of 

performance and cohesion. the good news is that we can improve 

our ability to bounce back at both individual and unit levels. so how 

does one build resilience? here are some strategies to consider: 

one strategy is choosing the method you use to cope with a 

situation. 

• do you use denial, blame, or ignore the situation (avoidant 

strategy)? 

• do you try to solve the situation (task-focused strategy)? 

• do you seek out your friends and colleagues (social support 

strategy)? 

if you have control over a situation, being task-focused is 

the way to go. if you have less control, social support is a more 

effective coping strategy. Who would you choose for social support 

if you need it? 

how you interpret a situation (appraisal) can also affect your 

resilience. resilient individuals tend to view situations as a challenge 

or an opportunity to learn and grow. 

• When you reflect on a situation you’ve been in, were your 

thoughts dominated by complaints and criticisms of others? 

• Were they judgements of how you couldn’t do something? or 


"Psychological research has shown resilience 

is associated with improved general wellbeing 

along with less distress and illness." 

was it something you could have learned from? 

• Which feels better? 

resilient individuals will focus on reframing situations as a 

challenge. they will focus on things they can change (control) and 

attribute failure to something that is temporary. 

research has also found that optimism is a central and consistent 

theme of resilience. 

• optimism is when you hold a belief that things will get better. it is 

when you hold the belief that you can go on and you will be ok. 

• optimism is a key ingredient to your resilience. What are you 

telling yourself? 

changing your appraisal of a situation from a threat to a challenge 

requires an active and deliberate thought process. You have to work 

at catching unhelpful appraisals and reframe them as positive ones. 

it’s not easy at first. it’s a lot like going to the gym: the first few times 

are hard but it gets easier as you do it more often. if this is something 

you would like to improve, then approach your base psychologist. 

they will be able to help you develop your personal resilience. 

ResIlIent unIts 

Within units, leadership is vital to developing resilience. research 

offers a number of suggestions for commanders on how to do this: 

• one strategy is to be proactive in your communication and 

reduce ambiguity by providing clear goals. 

2003 oh 03-0397-13

oh 03-0397-12 

SGT Gavin Hay 

doing his washing 

in the hangar at 

Henderson Field, 

Guadalcanal, 

during Op Rata 

in 2003. 

• another strategy is to provide meaningful contexts to 

tasks and activities; this builds a shared commitment to a task 

or activity. 

consider creating challenges the unit can exert control over 

through tasks, training or exercises. working as a team to overcome 

challenges also promotes social connections and strengthens social 

support as a coping strategy. the air force’s value of teamwork is 

more than window dressing; it can be a strategy to build resilience. 

• Recognise accomplishments through formal and informal 

means such as awards or verbal praise for a job well done. 

caf is calling upon us to develop a more resilient service. this is 

both an individual and leadership responsibility. there are practical 

strategies we can adopt to build our ability to cope with change and 

operational demands. We are going through a challenging time, but 

it is times such as these that we are able to test, exercise and build 

our resilience. 

An RNZAF Jeep at the NZ camp on Guadalcanal, 1943 

air force museum of nZ, Pr1292 

Leadership 

change of 

command, groUnd 

training Wing 

on 20 June 2011 the command of gtW was officially handed over 

from Wing commander nigel sainsbury to Wgcdr Peter king. 

the change of command was marked with a parade of all Wing 

personnel and was held in conjunction with medal presentations 

to base personnel. 

the parade was held in the logistics training squadron hangar, 

with personnel surrounded by training aircraft which provided a 

fitting back drop for the occasion. the medal recipients were: 

fltlt nigel dickson lsgcm 

sgt gavin harrison lsgcm 

sgt Phil andersen lsgcm 

sgt scott dawson lsgcm 

sgt chris mcmahon lsgcm 

sgt brad mead lsgcm 

ocdt craig browne nZosm and afghanistan Primary 

WGCDR Nigel Sainsbury 

and WGCDR Peter King. 

GTW medal recipients; FLTLT Dickson at 

far left; OCDT Craig Browne at right. 

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20110620_Wb_n1026341_0020 


new squadrons 

no. 230 (Mission support) 

squadron 

the InteGRateD MIssIon support squadron (imss) was formally 

renamed 230 (mission support) squadron on 1 July and so received 

not only its new number but also a squadron badge. this event is 

the first for a support squadron; the renumbering as an individual 

squadron, with a distinct heritage, was a proud moment for us. 

no. 230 (mission support) sqn is responsible for the provision of 

integrated, timely, coherent and focused, mission support to rnZaf 

air operations. the renaming to no. 230 (mission support) sqn 

coincided with the fourth anniversary of imss’s formation. 

our new squadron number is made up of two elements: the 

two hundred series number represents a support squadron, while 

selecting no. 30 gives us a direct link to no. 30 sqn rnZaf, which 

was formed at gisborne in 1943. 

the new 230 sQn badge depicts an abstract representation of 

the new Zealand haast eagle, one of the largest known eagles in 

the world, now extinct. With spread wings and sharp eyes, the eagle 

symbolises the components of our squadron’s functions. 

our motto Ka Rere Maro (ready to respond) reflects no. 230 

sqn’s agility and flexibility in meeting the diverse needs of our force 

elements and the respective capabilities they operate. 

no. 230 sQuaDRon heRItaGe 

the 30 in our squadron number reflects no. 30 squadron, which has 

a special place in rnZaf history. the squadron had previously been 

no.8 general reconnaissance (gr) sqn, but in 1943 at gisborne it 

was renumbered as no. 30 sqn and re-equipped with newly acquired 

grumman tbf avenger dive bombers. no 30 squadron was the 

first of only two rnZaf units to be equipped with the avenger and 

employ it as a dive bomber. 


By wGcDr Brendon Pett 

Commanding Officer 

no. 30 sqn deployed to bougainville in march 1944, undertaking 

combat operations over rabaul, buka, new britain, new ireland and 

new georgia islands. no. 30 sqn flew 573 combat sorties to the 

end of may 1944 comprising day and night strike missions against 

heavy defended enemy positions. these included direct support 

operations of Us ground forces, and bombardment of supply areas, 

coastal gun installations and airfields, as well as spotting for artillery 

and destroyer gunfire. during combat operations, no. 30 sqn lost 

three crews to enemy anti-aircraft fire over rabaul. 

in may 1944 it was relieved by no 31 sqn, which also flew 

avengers operationally until July 1944. both squadrons were 

disbanded later in 1944. 

The new 230 Sqn sign unveiled 

by F/S Grant Riki (r) and WGCDR 

Pett (l). Padre Stuart Hight stands 

behind WGCDR Pett. 

20110706_ak_v1023933_0001 unveil 230sqn.jpg

new squadrons 

no. 209 (expeditionary 

support) squadron 

on 22 July, the expeditionary support squadron paraded to mark 

their change of command, and to be formally re-numbered as no. 

209 (expeditionary support) squadron. the new number is in the 

two hundred series, befitting a support squadron, while adding 9, to 

reflect no. 9 sqn rnZaf from the second World War. 

the new commanding officer of the squadron is Wgcdr darryl 

cockroft. 

the badge of the squadron is the former operational support 

group badge, showing a pounamu mere in front of a pa palisade. the 

mere is the weapon of the peacemaker, spokesperson, negotiator, 

while the pa represents the base from which all support originates. 

the handle of the mere has three rings, representing service, 

support and sacrifice. 

the unit motto is: Hei Tautoko i te hauki (to support the attack). 

no. 209 sQuaDRon’s heRItaGe 

no.9 sqn rnZaf was formed on 23 July 1942 in new caledonia, 

made up of flights and aircraft from other units sent there as 

the rnZaf responded to american requests for patrol aircraft. 

initially the new squadron had four lockheed hudson iii general 

reconnaissance aircraft and that number was slowly built up to 12. 

the squadron had formed at Plain de gaiacs an american-built 

and -operated airfield. but no.9 squadron quickly played a full part 

in running the field, until by the end of 1942 no.9 squadron was 

running the airfield in total, in addition to operating its own hudsons. 

"The Badge of the squadron is the former 

operational support Group badge, showing 

a pounamu mere in front of a pa palisade. 

The mere is the weapon of the peacemaker, 

spokesperson, negotiator, while the pa 

represents the base from which all support 

originates. The handle of the mere has 

three rings, representing service, support 

and sacrifice." 

in march 1943 the squadron moved forward to espiritu santo, 

operating from there until after august that year. between october 

‘43 and January ‘44 the squadron reformed at Whenuapai, equipped 

with the lockheed PV-1 Ventura bomber. in february 1944 the 

squadron deployed again to santo before moving forward in may ‘44 

to bougainville, based at the Piva ii airstrip 

early in 1945 the squadron was initially redeployed in sub-units 

to fiji and funafati before operating as a bomber squadron from 

emirau in the bismarcks, against the remaining Japanese forces in 

the theatre. With the war coming to an end, no.9 returned to nZ and 

disbanded in June 1945. 

CAF presides as WGCDR Harvey 

hands over to WGCDR Cockcroft. 

CAF presents W/O Peter Wilson with his 

NZ Meritorious Service Medal. 

CAF presents SGT Brad Cassidy 

with his LS&GC Medal. 

20110722_ak_k1015620_0004 

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20110722_ak_k1015620_0003 


community support 

nZ police national 

search and Rescue 

(saR) Course 

By sGT Andrew Haugh 

Civil Defence Response group, RNZAF Base Auckland 

baCk In May i attended the nZ Police national sar course at 

dip flat. the aim of the course is to prepare police officers for 

roles within their various sar teams around new Zealand. the 

course was attended by members of the nZ Police, department of 

conservation (doc) staff and me, the sole rnZaf representative. 

course members were accommodated in their teams in 14 x 28 

tents. my team, team 7, was made up of four police officers, one 

doc employee and myself. 

sessions on the course covered the organisational structure of 

sar in new Zealand, the coordinated incident management system 

(cims), and sar theory with associated practical. throughout the 

course members were introduced to modern search management 

skills and techniques essential to developing sar skills. the course 

also included an introduction to the disaster Victim identification 

(dVi) process and procedures. 

everyday was filled with briefings and practical exercises, 

with each day culminating in case studies of recent sar events 

being presented by the training staff. these studies proved to 

be a fantastic learning tool, as students were provided with ‘real 

life’ experiences from the people who were there on the ground. 

one of special interest was a case study covering the dVi process 

and procedures for an aircraft accident. from an rnZaf cdrg 

perspective this case study was an invaluable insight into how 

important it is to preserve an aircraft crash site, not only for crash 

cause investigation, but also to allow thorough victim identification. 

the course was full time including the weekend, which involved 

a day walk from dip flat to st arnaud crossing the st arnaud range. 

each team planned their own route, including navigation and the 

necessary equipment to be taken. the weather was cold, wet and, at 

times, visibility was very poor, but fortunately the pub at st arnaud 

was open with hot showers and a roaring fire! 

the final part of the course took place in the field—a three day 

sarex with support from no. 3 squadron. the sarex was run by 

course members, with training staff as advisers when required. the 

incident management team (imt) was staffed by course members 

who would be required to perform an imt role in their current or 

future roles within the nZ Police. 

although this course is not a necessity for rnZaf cdrg 

personnel, it does provide members with vital skills and experience. 

cdrg members are often called upon to support the nZ Police 

on searches and attending a course such as this gives the Police 

confidence in the abilities of those rnZaf personnel. 

the nZ Police national sar course is rumoured to be the best 

of all the courses run by the nZ Police, and from my experience it’s 

hard to beat. i met some great people and heard a lot of ‘better work 

stories’. as the rnZaf base auckland cdrg training representative 

i plan to pass on what i have learnt to the cdrg. 


Team 7 establishing 

communications with 

SAR base. 

Team 7 prepares to 

redeploy via helo. 

A 3 Sqn Iroquois during winch 

training for the course. 

Join Us! 

One of the 

training staff 

down in the 

valley. 

If you are interested in joining the CDRG, Response Groups at 

each base are currently recruiting new members from within 

the RNZAF. 

• Are you fit? 

• Want to help your community? 

• Want to learn new skills? 

• Do you want to get out into the field more often? 

• Do you feel comfortable operating in adverse weather 

conditions in the great outdoors? 

Then contact your base CDRG: 

auCklanD: email air.auckland.cdrg or visit: 

intranet site: http://org/Auckland/CivilDefencePages/ 

CivilDefenceHome.aspx. 

ohakea: contact FGOFFJamie Wallace 

wooDbouRne: contact SGT Martin Caseley 

Photos: sgt haugh rnZaf

nZAF Active reserve 

CPL Mat Griffin in action during the 

pistol shooting competition. 

aIR FoRCe’s 

ReseRvIst 

oF the yeaR 

In July, Cpl mat griffin from base medical flight, (bmf) operational 

support Wing, rnZaf base auckland, competed in the annual 

reservist of the Year (rotY) competition. mat was the first rnZaf 

active reservist to be nominated for this event; he was up against 

four naval reservists and seven army reserves. 

“the rotY competition was a great experience. i was surprised 

on the first day that i was the only air force competitor. i was 

unsure of what the day would entail but soon realised that the other 

competitors meant business. Yet a great sense of camaraderie soon 

developed between us all, even though we had never previously met 

each other.” 

the competition pitted representatives of the 11 major army, 

navy and air force reserve units against each other in a test of 

military skills. the contestants were assessed on their performance 

in a series of military tasks including weapons handling, first aid and 

physical fitness, as well as having to perform in a public speaking 

competition. in the end, the competition was won by lance corporal 

Peter archer from 7 (Wellington & hawkes bay) battalion. 

defence minister Wayne mapp, the guest speaker at the award 

evening, congratulated the winner and the other contestants 

on their achievements in the competition and underlined the 

importance of reservists to the defence force. 

cPl griffin explained to Air Force News that he was in the rnZaf 

from 2004-2009. 

“throughout that time i was completing the old pathway for 

medics. in 2008 i was promoted to corporal and completed the 

papers enabling me to become a senior medic. during 2007-2009 

"i joined the Active reserve because i enjoy 

the challenge of diagnosis and treatment 

while seeing patients at Base Medical Flight." 

i was studying extramurally to complete papers within the bhsc 

in Paramedicine. 

“other things that i was involved with while full time in the air 

force, were as a hyperbaric chamber instructor; i gained fixedwing 

aeromedical evacuation (ae) qualification; and i was a first 

aid instructor. 

i also competed for the Waterhouse trophy twice, the second 

time i was the team leader. and i was involved in both defence 

hockey and softball as team strapper. 

“i left the air force in 2009 to finish my final papers in that degree. 

i now work for st John and have been placed on their internship 

programme for degree students. 

“i joined the active reserve because i enjoy the challenge of 

diagnosis and treatment while seeing patients at base medical flight. 

secondly, i believe my skills as a medic complement my current 

role within st John. and thirdly, i wanted to give back by helping the 

new medics, giving them support through the new pathway which 

involves them completing a graduate diploma as a paramedic. 

“as a reservist i worked from november until early June this 

year, in a full time role at bmf Whenuapai. i assisted with the 

ae section with their preparations for the christchurch relief 

operation. since joining st John in June, i have been completing days 

for bmf during my rostered days off.” 

20110711_Wn_s1015650_0004 


Book reviews 

THREE RECENT BOOkS 

TELL IMPoRTANT SToRIES 

ABoUT THE RNZAF 

Reviewed by the Editor. 

sWift to the skY 

By Errol W Martyn with the Air Force Museum 

of New Zealand 

Viking/ Penguin Group (NZ) 2010 

Swift to the Sky tells the story of our air 

force. errol martyn is a noted air historian 

and in this book he has worked with the staff 

of the air force museum of new Zealand, 

who provided the illustrations from their 

extensive collections. martyn takes us from 

WWi to the present day. 

When WWi loomed, henry Wigram 

saw aviation’s potential to defend new 

Zealand. during the ‘great War’ some 700 


new Zealanders entered the flying services 

and the author highlights some of their 

little-known stories. following WWi, some 

new Zealanders turned to the raf (itself 

formed in april 1918) until, with the threat 

of a new war, new Zealand legislated for an 

independent air service—the rnZaf. an 

integral part of our new air force’s role was 

the supply of pilots for the raf, as well. 

thus, most of Swift to the Sky is devoted 

to the activities of the rnZaf and, of 

new Zealanders in the raf, during WWii. 

the action-packed chapter takes us from 

cobber cain and the battle of france (1940) 

to supply drops over burma (1944-45) by 

way of training in new Zealand and canada, 

and air combat over malta, the desert, 

germany, and in the Pacific. 

but history did not stop in 1945—martyn 

brings his readers up-to-date with an 

informative chapter on the post-war 

rnZaf. the roll call of operations since 

the ’50s is impressive: the berlin airlift, 

cyprus, operation firedog in malaya, 

confrontation, the Vietnam War and, 

flights to the antarctic. the book closes 

with the rnZaf’s part in contemporary 

peacekeeping operations. next year the 

rnZaf is to celebrate its 75th anniversary. 

Swift to the Sky is an excellent celebration of 

our air force’s story. 

coUrage in the 

skies—neW 

Zealand airmen 

at War 

By Paul Harrison and Brian Lockstone, 

Grantham House, New Zealand, 2011 

Courage in the Skies focuses on new 

Zealanders in action in rnZaf and raf 

during both world wars. the two authors are 

eminent aviation historians and their willing 

collaboration has produced a valuable book. 

the book is well illustrated, with informative 

captions and is aimed at the younger reader, 

who may be just starting to grasp the 

exciting heritage our air force has created 

for our nation. 

skYhaWks—the 

historY of the 

rnZaf skYhaWk 

Don Simms & Nick Lee Frampton 

WilsonScott Publishing, Christchurch, NZ. 2011 

skyhawks; for 30 years the rnZaf 

maintained a very effective air combat 

capability, deploying across the s e asian 

and s W Pacific region and operating 

alongside our partner air forces. it is a story 

of which many can be proud and which belies 

any claims of ‘clapped out’ fighters. 

in 1994, aviation writer nick lee 

frampton was invited to write about the 

first 25 years of service by new Zealand’s 

a-4 skyhawks. he undertook interviews and 

research for a comprehensive story. 

the highlights: 

• that the squadrons regularly deployed 

their single-engine/single-seat aircraft 

on overseas deployments, without ever 

losing an aircraft on those long-haul 

flights. 

• that the pilots flew with such 

effectiveness that they frequently 

scored ‘shootdowns’ of so many of our 

allies’ fighters. 

• that Project kahu, a new Zealand 

project to extend the life of our a-4s, so 

lifted their capability that they equalled 

the more modern f-16. 

through those years don simms, then a 

serving aVtech, collected a tremendous 

series of photos of the skyhawks. nick 

revised his story with the winding up of 

the air combat force in 2001; then last 

year publisher Wilsonscott accepted 

nick’s manuscript and don has added his 

perspective to nick’s text. the publisher 

has created a most impressive book of 374 

pages with perhaps 700 illustrations—a 

fitting tribute to the skyhawks, their air and 

ground-crew and to the rnZaf as a whole.

From the Flightline 

The French Air Force 

CASA 235 dropping a 

stick of parachutists 

during Ex Para 

Brevet on 24 May. 

A sailor is winched 

from a Seasprite onto 

HMS RICHMOND 

during Ex Bersama 

Shield in May. 

The civilian Dash 8 that serves Bamyan and 

other provincial airstrips in Afghanistan. 

Pilot Training Squadron flies a salute during 

the Queen’s Colour Parade at Ohakea in June; 

AIRCDRE Kevin Short salutes in the foreground. 

Flying high over an Australian 

frigate, the photographer 

in HMS RICHMOND’s Merlin 

captures the flypast of 4 

Malaysian Mig 29s and an 

FA-18 Hornet during Ex 

Bersama Shield. 

Air Force news 25 

20110603_oh_k1001337_0001

ecruitment 

on-lIne aIR FoRCe 

ChallenGe! 

By 

using new technology to attract future recruits 

at GRounD tRaInInG Wing on rnZaf base Woodbourne, stand 

four table-top models of new Zealand landscapes which, with web 

cameras and the latest digital technology, can be ‘flown over’ on 

YouTube. these innovative models provide the backdrops to a new 

air force recruitment advertising campaign 

squadron leader glenn davis, director of defence recruiting 

operations, says the new online challenge is designed to give a 

glimpse into some of the careers on offer with the air force, allowing 

potential recruits to get a pilot’s eye view of flying with the rnZaf. 

“We are not trying to compete with the gaming market but rather, to 

use interactive, social media for innovative advertising.” 

the models are miniature landscapes for different flying or 

logistics operations. Via Youtube, the miniature cameras and the 

online technology take the viewer into the model, to undertake an 

air force mission online. 

the air force staff within the defence force recruiting team 

looked to find a location suitable to house the models. base 

Woodbourne was chosen as the best place, with space in the ground 

training Wing available and benefits to the avionics and cis courses 

held there. 

“the online campaign that our advertising partner saatchi and 

saatchi have developed give us the opportunity to engage with 

people interested in the air force in a more in-depth way than just 

running a television commercial campaign. interested young people 

can spend time playing the challenges an nh 90 helo pilot, or in the 

crew of a P-3 orion. another option is a logistics task on base—the 

viewer operates a forklift within a crowded hangar. as well, they can 

explore the other material delivered on the YouTube channel, such as 

air force trade videos. they can also link straight into the air force 

careers website if interested. 

“When compared with a 30 second tV commercial, the online 

environment enables us to tell young people a whole lot more about 

the air force,” says glenn. “social media is certainly being used more 

for advertising purposes and our potential recruits are online so this 

is where we hope to gain an edge. a lot of free media can be achieved 

through social media,” he explains. 

the online challenges are played in real time and allow one 

player at a time. a leaderboard shows the best results among 

all those who participate. “it’s amazing to think that someone 

anywhere in nZ can fly the virtual aircraft, or the virtual forklift 

in the hangar, at base Woodbourne in real-time, by using this 

technology,” says sQnldr davis. 

the technology that connects the hardware to the software 

is maintained by avionics technicians at base Woodbourne. 

gtW command Warrant officer Phil Webley says “We were very 

fortunate in that we had a technician at gtW who was familiar with 

the software that runs the game demo and that person was very 

keen to be involved in maintaining the programme. the technology 


Vivienne sanders 

Air Force Senior Communications Adviser 

The models are miniature landscapes for flying operations—in the long 

valley pictured here the viewer undertakes a mission as an NH90 pilot. 

‘steP UP’ to the 

challenge 

To play, simply log on to youtube.com and search Step Up, 

then provide your name and an email address. This allows 

you to play the four challenges and receive your results 

which can be shared with friends through Facebook and 

Twitter. On completion, the challenge resets itself and the 

next player begins. 

Each challenge can be played for two-three minutes. 

Users can also request a video— of their effort for the 

challenge—to be emailed to them, that they can then choose 

to share through their social networks. 

and models are air force property so when the recruiting 

programme is finished we will be able to keep the models and 

technology for air force use.” 

20110708_Wb_n1026341_0020.JPg

LARGE 

SCALE 

MODELS 

W/O Webley (l) and 

WGCDR King (r) 

behind the hangar 

model. 

Miniature 

cameras and 

online technology 

take the viewer 

into the model, 

to undertake 

different missions. 

The hangar 

model presents a 

logistics task on 

base—the viewer 

operates a forklift 

within a crowded 

hangar. 

The minature 

camera and its dolly 

which provide a 

helicopter-pilot’s 

view of the hill tops. 

People and events 

Corporal Jason Segal, Wellington City Missioner 

Father Des Britten and Squadron Leader Greg 

Burroughs load up a Light Operational Vehicle 

with cans collected by Wellington-based Defence 

personnel for the Wellington City Mission. 

mission kiWi can—the resUlt 

in July, our defence force ran a campaign 

throughout the country called mission 

kiwi can, where personnel were asked to 

donate canned food for local food banks. 

the chief of defence force, ltgen 

rhys Jones, said, “this is the third year 

we have run mission kiwi can. in the past 

two years we have donated a total of 

over 15,340 cans to food banks around 

the country. this year we collected over 

6,000 cans and raised over $16,000, which 

has been donated to food banks from 

auckland to invercargill. our involvement 

with charities is an important part of 

defence, especially where we are able to 

support charitable organisations in the 

communities where we are based.” 

on friday 15 July in christchurch, 

ltgen Jones handed over 2,067 cans 

and $534.00 which was spilt between the 

christchurch city mission and salvation 

army. christchurch city missioner michael 

gorman said, 

“christchurch has endured difficult 

times with the continuous succession of 

earthquakes. over the past few months 

members of the defence force have 

been a familiar sight on our streets as 

they helped with rescue and restoration. 

despite the extra demands placed on 

them by the quakes they have still found 

time to help the christchurch city mission 

and, thanks to promotions like mission kiwi 

can we will be able to provide help to those 

in need.” 

that same day in auckland, navy, army 

and air force personnel donated over 

2,500 cans and $2,500.00 to auckland city 

mission. auckland city missioner diane 

robertson said, 

“the auckland city mission has had a 

long history of support from the armed 

forces. it is wonderful to see the whole 

of the new Zealand defence force come 

together to support food banks with 

mission kiwi can. demand for food relief 

continues to grow every year. We need 

both food and financial donations to help 

thousands of aucklanders get through the 

next few months.” 

While in Wellington, nZdf personnel 

handed over 600 cans and $3,451.00 

to father des britten of the Wellington 

city mission, who was delighted to be a 

recipient of the defence force’s mission 

kiwi can. 

“this event is a tribute to the 

passionate and enthusiastic defence force 

staff— the city mission is very proud of its 

relationship with the defence force and 

the difference we make to so many lives 

through working together.” 



esky the 

beaR CoMes 

hoMe 

By FLTLT rebecca ‘George’ cosford 

when I GRew up, the tiny school in turakina i attended, had a front 

row seat for any flying from ohakea—everything ‘top-gun’ kiwi 

style! from then on i was hooked and you could say i was destined 

to join up. last year, before i deployed to the sinai, Wgcdr Woon 

asked me if i’d like to take a teddy bear with me. my task was to keep 

in contact with school children of eskdale school, an equally tiny 

school near napier. of course i was going to say yes! 

esky, who officially belongs to the school, has been hitching a 

ride with our air force personnel since 1995. he has been to bosnia 

and east timor, has been on norPats, and over to gallipoli for 

anZac day. he has his navigator’s brevet, badges from a multitude 

of different countries, and he has mixed well internationally, with 

Prime ministers, foreign ministers and ambassadors from many 

countries. now he has his sinai medal (awarded on parade) and can 

count himself amongst the kiwis who have served with the mfo for 

the past 28 years. 

What started as a bit of a novelty for me ended up being much 

more than that. We were away during the Pike river tragedy, the 

second canterbury earthquake, every public holiday through to 

may and, the ‘egyptian revolution’ or the ‘arab spring’. because 

of esky i received cute little letters and emails from complete 

strangers, and to have that extra connection with home during 

the harder times was really quite special. i was also able to share 

some of my experiences of the middle east—in all things, work, 

rest and play—with the school children through photos, stories, 

emails and letters. 

While deployed, the canadians within the mfo hosted an ‘air 

force day’, to mark the anniversary of what was originally the rcaf 

(now part of the cf). the four kiwis from the rnZaf wore light blue 

that day, while the force commander mfo, mgen Warren Whiting 

came along—when in the nZ army he completed the rnZaf wings 

course and served with no.3 squadron. 

once home again, and with the help of no.3 squadron, i was 

fortunate to be able to take esky home, landing the mighty 

huey in the eskdale school playing field. We were greeted by an 

awesome rendition of the national anthem and, later, farewelled 

with a fantastic haka from the boys. the children were absolutely 

enthralled by what we do and to bring a little bit of our air force to 

their back yard, if only for a couple of hours, is something they won’t 

forget for a long while—who knows, maybe we’ll recruit some in a 

few years.... 

the children’s excitement reminded me of just how cool and 

diverse our jobs are—one day across the world in the sinai desert, 

on another, low-level navigating to napier to answer questions from 


Esky meets his fans. 

Air Force Day in the Sinai; the Kiwis in light blue are: WGCDR Neil Taylor, 

WGCDR Guy Bendall, FLTLT Cosford & SGT Jae Ekman. 

Esky comes home, carried 

by FLTLT Cosford. 

excited school children. and then on the next i actually got back 

behind the desk to do some ‘real work’! 

for now esky is having a well-deserved rest in eskdale. but i am 

quite sure little esky will deploy again sometime, to enliven the 

deployment of someone else in the air force, while also helping 

educate and entertain another group of school children from that 

special rural community. 

20110622_oh_k1028040_0018 

20110622_oh_k1028040_0026


F/S Ellis with his mother 

and his wife, Bell. 

Medals presented at ohakea 

air Movements section 

By w/o Jodie Boyd-ewens 

Command Warrant Officer ESS 

on 7 July a medal presentation 

took place at the ohakea air 

Movements section. 

FlIGht seRGeant GRahaM ellis was presented with his 

long service and good conduct clasp and sgt gideon Wych 

with his timor leste solidarity medal, by the co, expeditionary 

support squadron (ess), Wgcdr harvey. as it was a ‘less formal’ 

presentation (with caf’s special approval) and held locally, it allowed 

for f/s ellis' wife (bell), and his mother to attend, along with a small 

group of other ess personnel. 

f/s g.f. ellis—clasP 

to the ls&gcm 

f/s graham ellis was presented with his clasp to the long service 

& good conduct medal, with effect 19 June 2010. f/s ellis joined 

the rnZaf as an airman cadet in January 1977, and following on 

from his successful completion of his trade training, he has served 

at a myriad of defence locations, including rnZaf base's Wigram, 

Woodbourne, auckland & ohakea and support branch in Wellington. 

Promotion to corporal occurred in 1980, followed by promotion to 

sergeant in march 1985. a highlight of f/s ellis' career occurred in 

1986 when he was posted to the new Zealand ordnance depot in 

singapore, where he met his wife, marabell (bell). 

20110707_oh_k1023900_0010 

WGCDR Harvey presents 

SGT Wych with his Timor- 

Leste Solidarity medal. 

he was promoted to flight sergeant in april 1992 at base ohakea; 

that June f/s ellis was awarded the new Zealand long service & 

good conduct medal. in november 2001, f/s ellis was promoted to 

the rank of Warrant officer. 

graham left the rnZaf in 2002 after 25 years service to the 

rnZaf, but he later re-enlisted in 2005 in the rank of sergeant 

and was subsequently promoted back to flight sergeant in 2007. 

since his return to the rnZaf, f/s ellis has been employed as a 

part of no.209 (expeditionary support) squadron, as the sncoic 

of the ohakea air movements section. he plays a pivotal role in 

maintaining professional standards as well as a leading role in the 

development of his subordinates. 

sgt g. WYch—timor-leste 

solidaritY medal 

the timor-leste solidarity medal was presented to sgt gideon 

Wych. the timor-leste solidarity medal is a state decoration of 

timor-leste which is awarded to national and international forces 

who have contributed to stability and peace operations in timorleste 

since 1 may 2006. the approving authority for the awarding 

of this medal is the President of the republic of timor-leste. 

in 2006, as a member of the nZ army, sgt Wych was 

posted to timor leste. his subsequent service change delayed 

the presentation of this medal, which was presented by 

Wgcdr harvey. 

20110707_oh_k1023900_0005 


Joe break 

Welcome 

BAck 

The RNZAF extends a warm welcome back 

to the following skilled personnel who have 

rejoined us recently. 

Base Auckland 

LAC D.A COkER, Communications and 

Information Systems Technician, 4-Jul-11 

LAC M.I SHEPHERD, Senior Firefighter, 

4-Jul-11 

Base ohakea 

CPL C.A THOMPSON, Avionics Technician, 

20-Jun-11 

fareWell 

The RNZAF bids a fond farewell 

to the following. 

Base Auckland 

FLTLT C.D DE MARCO, Pilot, 13-Jul-11 

W/O D.A TRUE, Avionics Technician, 

14-Jul-11 

W/O B.P MARCEAU, Avionics Technician, 

17-Jul-11 

F/S J.J GOMEZ, Avionics Technician, 

28-Aug-11 

SGT L.A STOCkLEy, Safety and Surface 

Technician, 22-Aug-11 

SGT R GULLIFORD, Senior Air Security 

Specialist, 26-Aug-11 

CPL A RICHARDSON, Logistics Specialist, 

3-Jul-11 

CPL G.L SHEAT, Aircraft Technician, 

5-Aug-11 

CPL M.C NEvIN, Master Aeronautical Metal 

Worker, 7-Aug-11 

LAC C.M WEBSTER, Aviation Refueller, 

15-Jul-11 

LAC D.P MELLING, Machine Tool Setter and 

operator, 14-Aug-11 

AC S.S.J kADOURI, Assistant Aviation 

Refueller, 2-Aug-11 

AC S.P MORIARTy, Aircraft Mechanic, 

6-Aug-11 

Base ohakea 

SQNLDR A.D HAy, Pilot, 5-Aug-11 

F/S T.D ALLAN, Master Aeronautical Metal 

Worker, 20-Jul-11 

CPL T.T.T NAERA, Logistics Specialist, 

7-Jul-11 

CPL T.k HAMIORA, Aircraft Technician, 

22-Jul-11 


CPL B.D HUGHSON, Senior Air Security 


LAC H.A GOUMAN, Logistics Specialist, 

10-Aug-11 

LAC A.G TURNBULL, Machine Tool Setter 

and operator, 14-Aug-11 

Base woodbourne 

SGT D.A MCkENZIE, Avionics Technician, 

26-Jun-11 

SGT I.J BOyD, General Service Airman/ 

Airwoman, 27-Jul-11 

CPL C CAMPBELL, Force Protection 

operator, 3-Jul-11 

wellington 

aIRCDRE G.J HOWSE, Pilot, 30-Jun-11 

FLTLT M.D BRIDGMAN, Pilot, 17-Jul-11 

F/S A.L MADELEy, Logistics Specialist, 

15-Aug-11 

F/S T.C SUTTON, Air Warfare Specialist, 

1-Jul-11 

AC A.S.J GARSTANG, Logistics operator, 

10-Jul-11 

christchurch 

W/O S.M CARRICk, General Service Airman/ 

Airwoman, 17-Jul-11 

CPL N.N SANGERS, Senior Medic, 7-Aug-11 

Dunedin 

SGT M.D IvAMy, Senior Air Security 


Linton camp 

SGT C.J LINDSAy, Senior Firefighter, 

21-Aug-11 

Promotions 

Congratulations to the following personnel 

for their well-deserved promotions. 

A/WGCDR D.GCOCkROFT, CISo, 4/07/2011 

SQNLDR I.N. GREEN, ASYo, 1/07/2011 

SQNLDR M.J JENNINGS, PSY, 1/07/2011 

FLTLT T.W. MEREDITH, SUP, 30/07/2011 

FLTLT M.C WOOLSTON, PILoT, 20/07/2011 

FLTLT P.J BARRON, PILoT, 18/07/2011 

FLTLT G.C. PRyCE, ALMoFF, 16/07/2011 

FGOFF J.N. BARBER, SUP, 16/07/2011 

FGOFF B.A.ABROWN, ENGR, 16/07/2011 

FGOFF C.M.J. BROWNE, ENGR, 16/07/2011 

FGOFF P.E.W. ZIESLER, ENGR, 16/07/2011 

FGOFF D.A. HAINES, AWo, 14/07/2011 

FGOFF C.P. HITCHINGS, AWo, 14/07/2011 

FGOFF T.D.P. LESLIE, PILoT, 14/07/2011 

FGOFF T.S.A. MERCER, PILoT, 14/07/2011 

HoBsonViLLe neeDs YoU! 

The Hobsonville Land Company, 

a subsidiary of housing new 

Zealand, is redeveloping the former 

RNZAF base as ‘Hobsonville Point’. 

The development will be a new 

community, with new primary and 

secondary schools, retail, ferry, 

wharf area, marine industry area, 

parks, playgrounds, and over time, 

about 10,000 residents. 

We are keen to incorporate some Air 

Force history in the new community 

— as part of this, we will be installing 

posts to give directions around 

Hobsonville Point, and we want to 

put stories on these, for people to 

read as they walk around to learn 

about the rich history of the area. 

We invite readers who have lived or 

worked here, to share with us their 

stories about life at Hobsonville, 

which we will consider for the guide 

posts as well. Please email your 

stories to: 

• kathleen.Waldock@hnzc.co.nz 

kathleen Waldock, Project 

Development Coordinator, 

Hobsonville Land Company; 

phone 09 261 5054. 

For information on Hobsonville 

Point, please visit our website at 

www.hobsonvillepoint.co.nz 

FGOFF A.J. STEWART, PILoT, 14/07/2011 

PLTOFF J.F. ATkINSON, FPo, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF L BARESIC, ENGR, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF S.J. BRADLEy, ENGR, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF R.S COLLINGWOOD, ENGR, 

16/07/2011 

PLTOFF M.W.C COMBER, PILoTUT, 

16/07/2011 

PLTOFF A.H. FOOTE, AWoUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF R HUTTON, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF B.M JAMES, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF L.G.A JOHNSTONE, PILoTUT, 

16/07/2011 

PLTOFF S.R JONES, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF T.O JONES, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF J.A. MCCREA, SUP, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF S.A. MCGREGOR, ENGR, 

16/07/2011 

PLTOFF S.J. MCkAy, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF D.A. NATAPU, PILoTUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF A.A. PALMER, AWoUT, 16/07/2011 

PLTOFF J.v. SCOTT, AWoUT, 16/07/2011 

A/F/S J.R.N. HUTCHINSON, ACFTTECH, 

4/07/2011 

A/F/S N.D. GOZA, CISTECH, 4/07/2011 

A/SGT J.P. HARRISON, PJI, 25/08/2011

Joe break 

The Air Force Proms 

coming in november! 

Enjoy the annual Proms 

Concert with the Central 

Band of the RNZAF, 

featuring: 

• stunning Christchurch 

violinist Fiona Pears 

• a host of pipes, brass and drums, plus 

• Mark Hadlow as MC. 

FEATURING MARK HADLOW 

This popular concert, 2PM which SUNDAY is 7TH in its AUGUST, 11th year, 2011 

MICHAEL FOWLER CENTRE 

TICKETS $18/$10 > FROM 0800TICKETEK BOOKING FEE APPLIES 

is to be held at the Michael Fowler Centre in 

Wellington on Sunday 6 November. 

once again the concert will include a select 

number of secondary school musicians 

to play alongside the Band for part of the 

Concert. Bring along family and friends; you 

will be surprised by the range and accessibility 

of music performed by the Band. 

• Tickets from Ticketek—with a discount for 

NZDF ID. 

PATrioTs Defence Force 

Motor cycle club 

The Patriots DFMC originated in Australia 

in 1993 as a motorcycle club for serving 

and ex-serving military personnel. In 1998 

a chapter was established in New Zealand 

under the same constitution. 

There are now Five Patriots chapters in New 

Zealand: Auckland, Canterbury, Nelson- 

Marlborough-West Coast (NMWC), Hauraki, 

and Manawatu—and our membership 

continues to grow. We also have Patriot 

friends in the United Kingdom who provide 

the same welcome to members worldwide. 

We are a family-oriented Club and invite 

members to bring along their families to our 

functions. Full membership may be granted 

to serving and ex-serving military personnel, 

and to others who have a direct bond with 

the Military as Supporters. Full members 

must also be in possession of a motorcycle 

of any make and of 250cc or above with the 

appropriate licence. 

PATRIoTS DFMC NZ is a side-patch social 

club; we get together for a ride and meeting 

monthly, and regularly attend activities such 

as rallies, poker runs and similar biking events. 

Two RNZAF members are Muzz & Wrestler. 

We try to uphold the traditions of ANZAC and 

all that it stands for. Want to know more? 

• President Trev 027 2468935 

• Secretary Ben 021332335 

The Patriots ‘Badge’, which members wear on their 

chests, includes an anchor to represent the Navy, swords 

for the Army, wings for the Air Force, and a skull for those 

who have given their lives for their country. The beret is a 

form of headgear common to all three services. 

The ohakea skin Bay 

need your help! 

The ohakea Skin Bay, within Maintenance 

Support Squadron Ohakea, has built a 3.5 m 

flying wing, inspired by the Horten 229. The 

large model is designed for a model jet engine 

(approx 15–20lbs thrust) and radio control. 

But, the Skin Bay team are looking for support 

and guidance to equip the model with an 

engine and the 6-channel radio control. 

This is no toy, and has had a large amount of 

man-hours by different people invested in 

it. They are looking for someone with model 

jet experience, who has built aircraft from 

scratch or worked on scratch-built aircraft, 

and knows how to set up something like this 

for flight. 

Any reader who can help, please contact LAC 

Dave Matthews, RNZAF Base ohakea: 

Ph 06-351-5350 

DTelN 368-7350 

reUnions 

no. 3 squadron 70th Anniversary 

10 September 2011, Auckland 

• 70th Anniversary Dinner at the new 

MoTAT Hangar. 

• Auckland Air Training Corps Wing 

Anniversary Parade, Queen Street 

For more information about the anniversary 

or to download a registration form visit: 

http://www.3squadron.org.nz/ 

renwick school 150th Jubilee 

28-30 October 2011 

Please register your interest to: 

Jubilee@renwick.school.nz 

Or contact: Angie Holdaway (03) 572 8092. 

19 course rnZAF Boy entrant 

school reunion 

13-15 January, 2012, Blenheim 

For more information or to register your 

interest and contact details email: 

Graeme Munro: gwmunro@xtra.co.nz 

Grahame Allport: grahame.allport@ 

propertyiq.co.nz 

Ian Young: ian.young@nzdf.mil.nz, 

Phone 09 417 7000 ext 7413 during work 

hours 

no. 29 Airmen cadet school and 

no. 11 ceT 40th Anniversary reunion 

19 to 22 January 2012, Blenheim 

For more information contact: 

Murray oakenfull (oaky) 

16b McCallum Street 

Blenheim 

oakys@xtra.co.nz 

or 

John Forrest (Trees) 

18 Glenroy Street 

Blenheim 

chele.trees@xtra.co.nz 

or 

Jim Greenslade 

18 MacKenzie St 

Te Atatu South 

Auckland 

j.greenslade@xtra.co.nz 


32 Air Force news

exercise blackbird - Royal New Zealand Air Force

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