The Top Ender Magazine December 2023 January 2024 Edition
Welcome to the December/January edition of Top Ender Magazine, where we celebrate the festive season with tasty Christmas recipes, community events and many boredom-buster activities to make it through the Wet Season. In an exclusive interview, we chat with the remarkable Merrick Watts, winner of SAS Australia 2020, to gain insights into his experiences, resilience, and his unique take on life. We have plenty of competitions in store again this edition, but in a break with tradition, we will be featuring even more giveaways on our Facebook page in the lead-up to Christmas, so make sure you are following us on Facebook! For those gearing up for a new adventure in the coming year, turn to our tips and tricks for a stress-free relocation. We wish you all a smooth transition to your next chapter. As always, we welcome you to join us at The Top Ender for 2024!
Welcome to the December/January edition of Top Ender Magazine, where we celebrate the festive season with tasty Christmas recipes, community events and many boredom-buster activities to make it through the Wet Season.
In an exclusive interview, we chat with the remarkable Merrick Watts, winner of SAS Australia 2020, to gain insights into his experiences, resilience, and his unique take on life.
We have plenty of competitions in store again this edition, but in a break with tradition, we will be featuring even more giveaways on our Facebook page in the lead-up to Christmas, so make sure you are following us on Facebook!
For those gearing up for a new adventure in the coming year, turn to our tips and tricks for a stress-free relocation. We wish you all a smooth transition to your next chapter. As always, we welcome you to join us at The Top Ender for 2024!
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<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong><br />
<strong>Ender</strong><br />
Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Inc<br />
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT<br />
ENJOY THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH HOLIDAY RECIPES<br />
AND ACTIVITIES THAT WILL MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS<br />
MERRY AND BRIGHT!<br />
MEETING MERRICK WATTS<br />
EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS FROM SAS AUSTRALIA 2020<br />
WINNER MERRICK WATTS ON LIFE, FAMILY, AND<br />
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES, REVEALING HIS<br />
REMARKABLE DETERMINATION AND MENTAL<br />
STRENGTH.<br />
POSTING TIPS AND TRICKS<br />
MASTER THE ART OF MOVING WITH EASE! UNPACK<br />
ESSENTIAL TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A SEAMLESS<br />
RELOCATION THIS POSTING SEASON.<br />
CREATED BY DEFENCE FAMILIES FOR DEFENCE FAMILIES
haileyburyrendall.com.au<br />
THE TOP ENDER TRI-SERVICE MAGAZINE<br />
<strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> <strong>January</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
COVER IMAGE: Merrick Watts ©<br />
COMMITTEE MEMBERS<br />
Chairperson Deborah Herring | chair@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Vice Chairperson Emma Thom | chair@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Treasurer Georgia Usher | treasurer@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Secretary Madison Collier | secretary@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
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General Members Ian Anderson, Clare Corvia, Stella Taylor.<br />
CONTACT US<br />
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COMMUNITY CO-ORDINATOR<br />
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ARTICLES & CONTRIBUTIONS<br />
Deb Herring | articles@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
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In the spirit of reconciliation, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of<br />
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2 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 1
04 MERRICK WATTS<br />
06 THE HEADSTONE PROJECT<br />
10 ROYAL FLYING DOCTORS SERVICE<br />
12 NT LEGACY - 50 YEARS<br />
SUPPORT<br />
16 DEFENCE MEMBER AND FAMILY SUPPORT<br />
22 DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS<br />
24 DEFENCE FAMILIES OF AUSTRALIA<br />
26 ROBERTSON BARRACKS FAMILY GROUP<br />
26 LARRAKEYAH NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE<br />
31 PRINCES TRUST AUSTRALIA<br />
32 MATES4MATES<br />
33 SALTWATER VETERANS<br />
34 NETWORK TINDAL<br />
35 THE PILBARA REGIMENT FAMILY GROUP<br />
38 CHAPLAIN’S CHAT<br />
08 BIG THINGS BINGO<br />
08 HOLIDAYS IN THE NT<br />
09 STAMP COLLECTING<br />
13 CHRISTMAS FROM A DISTANCE<br />
15 CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY EVENTS<br />
18 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABILITIES<br />
19 LEGACY - INSPIRED BY THE FLAME<br />
21 AUSTRALIAN WOMENS LAND ARMY<br />
28 LUKE GOSLING<br />
FEATURES<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
29 COMMITTEE NOTICEBOARD<br />
29 ADF BLOOD CHALLENGE<br />
CONTENTS<br />
30 35TH ANNIVERSARY TRAINING SHIP DARWIN<br />
36 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS<br />
37 NT DEFENCE BALL<br />
39 AMBER NT<br />
40 RUMINATING<br />
42 ASK HAYLEY - DEFENCE KIDZ<br />
43 WEARY DUNLOP FOUNDATION<br />
44 FATIGUE & DISTRACTION<br />
45 ROAD REPORT NT<br />
47 RELOCATION HACKS<br />
48 TIPS FOR FINDING A NEW GP<br />
50 ONLINE WELLBEING RESOURCES<br />
51 DARWIN ADULT SHORT COURSES<br />
52 GROM<br />
55 BENEFITS OF FAMILY DAY CARE<br />
56 MIDGE & MOZZIE CALENDAR<br />
57 INJURED WILDLIFE ON ROADTRIPS<br />
58 PREPARING YOUR PET FOR TRAVEL<br />
59 ALL PETS NT<br />
60 BACK TO SCHOOL SCHEME<br />
61 HAILEYBURY RENDALL SCHOOL<br />
63 WET SEASON ACTIVITIES<br />
63 GINGERBREAD RECIPE<br />
64 KIDS PUZZLES<br />
66 HANDY DIRECTORY<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
BIG THINGS COINS - PG 8<br />
WIN ON FACEBOOK - PG 20<br />
WIN WITH OUR SPONSORS - PG 27<br />
WATERFRONT FAMILY MEMBERSHIP - PG 62<br />
KIDS ART PACK - PG 62<br />
FROM THE COMMITTEE<br />
DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong> JANUARY <strong>2024</strong><br />
WELCOME<br />
Welcome to the <strong>December</strong>/<strong>January</strong> edition of <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>, where we celebrate the<br />
festive season with tasty Christmas recipes, community events and lots of boredom buster<br />
activities to make it through the Wet Season.<br />
In an exclusive interview, we chat with the remarkable Merrick Watts, winner of SAS Australia<br />
2020, to gain insights into his experiences, resilience, and his unique take on life.<br />
We have plenty of competitions in store again this edition, but in a break with tradition, we will<br />
be featuring even more giveaways on our Facebook page on the lead up to Christmas, so make<br />
sure you are following us on Facebook!<br />
For those gearing up for a new adventure in the coming year, turn to our tips and tricks for a<br />
stress-free relocation. We wish you all a smooth transition to your next chapter. As always, we<br />
welcome you to join us at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> for <strong>2024</strong>!<br />
UPCOMING<br />
SUBMISSION DEADLINE<br />
If you wish to submit an article, event, photo,<br />
advertisement or would like to contribute some<br />
ideas for the next edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
<strong>Magazine</strong>, please contact us.<br />
Submission Deadline for February/March<br />
edition is: 14th <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
DISTRIBUTION DAYS<br />
Distribution Day is a chance for you to meet our<br />
community and make new friends, while we label<br />
the magazine for posting. Light refreshments are<br />
provided and children are always welcome. Follow<br />
us on Facebook or visit our website to find out<br />
more.<br />
Next Distribution days: TBC<br />
COMMITTEE MEETINGS<br />
Come along to our next committee meeting or<br />
focus group where we finalise article selections,<br />
discuss community work and magazine planning. You<br />
can input as much or as little as you like. Light dinner<br />
is provided and children are always welcome.<br />
Focus Group: TBC<br />
Committee Meeting: Wednesday 6th <strong>December</strong><br />
Contact admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
for further details.<br />
CONNECT<br />
Scan the QR Codes to view and engage<br />
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Disclaimer: <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> may include historically and culturally sensitive images, words, terms or descriptions; such material does not reflect<br />
the magazine’s viewpoint but rather the social attitudes and circumstances of the period or place in which it was created.<br />
Some of the images included within depicts the consequences of warfare, including human suffering or death, which some people may find disturbing.<br />
Members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are advised that this magazine contains names, stories and images of deceased people.<br />
W2 W<strong>The</strong> W.T <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> H E | Tri-Services O P E N<strong>Magazine</strong> D E RIncorporated M A G A Z I N E . O R G . A U<br />
DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 3
MEETING<br />
MERRICK WATTS<br />
We had the privilege of interviewing comedian Merrick Watts, the winner of SAS Australia in<br />
2020. Based on his sheer determination, courage and mental strength, we were keen to hear<br />
Merrick’s thoughts about life, family, career, the SAS experience and his tips on overcoming<br />
extreme challenges...<br />
HOW WOULD YOUR BEST FRIEND DESCRIBE<br />
YOU?<br />
Probably not modest. Reliable, determined, loyal. Hopefully<br />
funny as well?<br />
FAVOURITE MOVIE AND WHY?<br />
Caddy Shack - it made me want to do comedy.<br />
FAVOURITE BOOK AND WHY?<br />
I recently read Dan Pronk’s “<strong>The</strong> Combat Doctor” about<br />
an SAS Doctor on operations in Afghanistan - it is an<br />
excellent book.<br />
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HOBBY?<br />
Is drinking wine a hobby? I am a qualified wine expert and I<br />
love everything about wine. I also love AFL and barrack for<br />
Collingwood with a passion. I am also very good at eating<br />
Burger Rings. So, I guess what I am saying is that my hobby<br />
is drinking wine and eating Burger Rings whilst watching<br />
the footy? Oh my god, I just realised I am a disgrace.<br />
WHAT IS A COMMON QUESTION THAT<br />
PEOPLE ASK YOU?<br />
People often ask me “Where’s Rosso?”. I sometimes<br />
answer; “In the boot of my car until I need him!”, but the<br />
truth is that Rosso and I communicate regularly but see<br />
each other infrequently. We still make each other laugh -<br />
we have a long history together and have created a legacy<br />
that we are both very proud of (and surprised by!).<br />
WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?<br />
People with passion for what they do regardless of what<br />
that passion is. Winemakers, comedians, sports people. I<br />
hate snakes but if I met someone who was passionate<br />
about milking venom from deadly snakes, I would be<br />
inspired. I would then probably have a go at it myself and<br />
end up dying - Hakuna Matata.<br />
WHAT IS YOUR STRONGEST PERSONALITY<br />
TRAIT?<br />
My strongest personality traits are determination and<br />
resilience - they are symbiotic I believe. I can handle<br />
enormous stress and pain, but those two traits allow me to<br />
continue where perhaps others do not. During the<br />
“Pressure Test” on SAS Australia, we had a simulated<br />
hostage situation, and I was under the most pressure I<br />
have ever felt in my life, but I performed the best in that<br />
test - I have realised through this experience that I perform<br />
well under pressure.<br />
WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU USE TO<br />
MANAGE MENTAL HEALTH AND STRESS?<br />
Daily Meditation, daily exercise, reading, constantly<br />
upskilling in new areas of learning. Grow or die - I am<br />
always looking to grow myself. Always learning, always<br />
testing myself with new challenges.<br />
BEST MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE?<br />
Leaving a hospital with my son in my arms after thinking<br />
we might have lost him to illness in a foreign country. My<br />
children's births are an obvious highlight, but the relief of<br />
not losing the person you love the most is like winning<br />
lottery x 1 million - gratitude trumps illation.<br />
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER<br />
RECEIVED?<br />
This advice has stayed with me since I was a young boy<br />
From my Mum - Never trust a man who does not like<br />
women as friends.<br />
From my grandfather - Only two things start wars - greed<br />
and religion. My grandfather was orphaned during WW1.<br />
Photo: Merrick Watts competing in SAS Australia © Channel 7<br />
DID YOUR EXPERIENCE ON SAS AUSTRALIA<br />
CHANGE YOUR LIFE? IF SO, IN WHAT WAY?<br />
SAS Australia was the most transformative experience in<br />
my life, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity<br />
afforded to me. <strong>The</strong> preparation physically but more<br />
importantly mentally equipped me for the show and the<br />
show itself just solidified and galvanised my new strengths.<br />
You go in one person and come out another through a<br />
fulcrum of pressure and you understand yourself both good<br />
and bad in a way you never dreamed of. As they say on<br />
the show- they break you down into tiny pieces and the<br />
“real you” will be exposed. <strong>The</strong>re’s no hiding who you<br />
really are - I was happy with that.<br />
WHAT STRATEGIES DID YOU USE TO<br />
OVERCOME CHALLENGES ON SAS<br />
AUSTRALIA?<br />
I conditioned my body with fitness but also pain and<br />
discomfort until I was truly comfortable with discomfort.<br />
Exposure therapy to things like extreme cold (daily ice<br />
baths) and lots of pack marching with 40+ kgs. I also knew<br />
that it was 30% physical and 70% mental, so I conditioned<br />
my mind using meditation and other techniques - I<br />
wholeheartedly believe that meditation is the secret to<br />
success. Mind over matter. Park the pain, crack on.<br />
WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING<br />
ASPECT/S OF YOUR SAS EXPERIENCE?<br />
Emotional control - Lack of sleep and food is the<br />
catalyst for testing someone’s emotional control. I felt<br />
bad when I saw good people voluntarily withdraw or fall to<br />
pieces, but I had to park it quickly and not lose focus. I also<br />
had a challenging circumstance with fellow recruit Firass<br />
Dirani that at that time and place was affecting my moral<br />
beliefs and therefore my emotions. I believe I held my<br />
emotional control, but I also did not suppress it which<br />
sacrificed my core beliefs in teamwork. I felt I was balanced<br />
because I was justified; I still do. Having said that, I harbour<br />
no ill feelings towards Firass. It was always about that time,<br />
that place and the purpose of why we were there. We<br />
actually got along very well before the show. It’s the<br />
pressure applied and people's reactions that are the true<br />
test of that show.<br />
HAVE YOU EVER VISITED THE TOP END?<br />
I have visited many times and I love it. <strong>The</strong> Territory is one<br />
of the few places in the world where you can transport<br />
your mind back in time millions of years in the blink of an<br />
eye.<br />
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE<br />
TOP END?<br />
My wife and I travelled to the NT on our first holiday<br />
together more than 20 years ago. I remember swimming<br />
in Litchfield National Park thinking “this may be the most<br />
beautiful natural experience on earth”<br />
I also really love Darwin. Too many cities get swept up in<br />
competitive comparisons. Darwin doesn’t care. It’s just<br />
Darwin and that’s what I love about it.<br />
Interviewed by Deb Herring<br />
Committee Member<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
GRAPES OF<br />
MIRTH<br />
grapesofmirth.com.au<br />
Merrick is heavily<br />
involved with Grapes<br />
of Mirth events at<br />
various locations<br />
around Australia.<br />
Keep an eye out for<br />
upcoming events in<br />
various posting locations.<br />
At its core, Grapes of Mirth<br />
is the bringing together of<br />
comedy and wine; sharing a<br />
wine, sharing a<br />
conversation, and sharing a<br />
laugh.<br />
Comedy. Wine. Music.<br />
Podcasts. Cooking. Art.<br />
Fun.<br />
4 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 5
THE HEADSTONE PROJECT<br />
FREDERICK AUBREY<br />
Frederick Aubrey enlisted into the AIF in <strong>December</strong> 1914<br />
from Oakbank, South Australia and was allocated service<br />
number 471. He was attached to the 6th Squadron of the<br />
11th Light Horse Brigade.<br />
He saw service as an infantry man at Gallipoli and later in a<br />
number of locations in the Middle East. In April 1916, he<br />
was promoted to Sergeant. Federick was mentioned in<br />
despatches on 6th of July 1917 and was awarded the<br />
Military Medal on the 21st of March 1917, for gallantry and<br />
devotion to duty in the field (London Gazette 11.05.1917).<br />
Frederick had a number of hospital admissions during his<br />
enlistment due to a dislocated shoulder which frequently<br />
reoccurred.<br />
Photo: This is a photograph of “F. Aubrey” found online - one of the<br />
soldiers photographed in ‘<strong>The</strong> Queenslander Pictorial’, which was a<br />
supplement within “<strong>The</strong> Queenslander” newspaper. This image was on<br />
page 22 of the 24 July 1915 edition and has been digitised by the State<br />
Library of Queensland. © slq.qld.gov.au<br />
This soldier’s story and unmarked grave has been<br />
investigated by <strong>The</strong> Headstone Project (SA).<br />
<strong>The</strong> Headstone Project came into being with the<br />
sole purpose of ensuring that all Australian First<br />
World War veterans have their last resting place<br />
suitably marked in such a way that recognises their<br />
service. To fund this work, <strong>The</strong> Headstone Project<br />
team relies on grants and the generosity of the<br />
public in the form of donations and volunteers to<br />
help continue this work around Australia.<br />
You can help to continue recognising the service<br />
of our unacknowledged returned First World War<br />
soldiers now by donating to <strong>The</strong> Headstone<br />
Project! When you make a gift donation online,<br />
you can be confident that all proceeds will go to<br />
the construction of headstones, their placement<br />
and celebration.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Headstone Project is registered with the<br />
Australian Charities and Not-For-Profit<br />
Commission and has achieved Deductible Gift<br />
Recipiency status. As a result, any donation<br />
greater than $2 is tax-deductible for Australian<br />
taxpayers.<br />
If you would like to get involved, please head to<br />
<strong>The</strong> Headstone Project website or contact the<br />
team directly - enquiries@theheadstoneproject.org<br />
<strong>The</strong>y served. <strong>The</strong>y deserve to be remembered.<br />
https://www.theheadstoneproject.org/<br />
On the 12th of July 1917, he embarked for Australia aboard<br />
‘Port Sydney’. After arriving in South Australia, he was<br />
admitted to the military hospital at Keswick. Frederick<br />
Aubrey was discharged as permanently unfit for duty and<br />
granted a pension from October 1917. <strong>The</strong> family is<br />
unaware of what became of Frederick Aubrey’s medals.<br />
Frederick Aubrey collapsed and died whilst working in<br />
Darwin during WW2 on the 26th of February 1940. It is<br />
believed he was a civilian working for the RAAF at the time<br />
of his death. He was buried at the Gardens Cemetery,<br />
Darwin in plot 1055. His grave has been unmarked since his<br />
death.<br />
On Sat 25 Nov <strong>2023</strong>,<br />
representatives of <strong>The</strong><br />
Headstone Project and Darwin<br />
RSL unveiled the new<br />
headstone for Frederick<br />
Aubrey at <strong>The</strong> Gardens Cemetry, 191 Gardens Rd,<br />
Darwin, Row 1055, which was followed by a morning<br />
tea at Billeroy House.<br />
Thank you for your sacrifice and service ~ Lest We<br />
Forget.<br />
Photo: Remembered at last; the unveiled headstone of a long forgotten<br />
soldier. V.A.L.E SGT Frederick Allen Aubrey MM, MiD<br />
Photo: Headstone unveiled at Darwin Gardens Cemetery by granddaughter Raylene Cowie and great-granddaughter Natasha Rogers © Ian G Anderson<br />
Photography<br />
Photos: (left) Tim and Natasha Rogers (great-granddaughter), Raylene (granddaughter) & Noel Cowie proudly stand with SGT Aubrey’s medals and unveiled<br />
headstone. (right) Natasha and Raylene receive Sgt Aubrey’s medals from Hon. Vicky Halloran AO. © Ian G Anderson Photography<br />
6 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 7
HOLIDAYS<br />
IN THE NT<br />
BIG THINGS<br />
BINGO<br />
We Australian’s love a good road trip, especially visiting tourist<br />
attractions to purchase a new cork hat or souvenir stubby<br />
cooler. Australia Post recently launched the BIG THINGS<br />
stamps and coin collection, which gave us an idea for a fun<br />
magazine article and road trip activity!<br />
Cross off the BIG THINGS you have seen during your travels<br />
around Australia and see if you have 5 in a row!<br />
BIG KOALA<br />
(VIC)<br />
BIG MANGO<br />
(QLD)<br />
BIG<br />
PINEAPPLE<br />
(QLD)<br />
BIG<br />
ROCKING<br />
HORSE (SA)<br />
BIG PEANUT<br />
(QLD)<br />
BIG BANANA<br />
(NSW)<br />
BIG<br />
MUSHROOM<br />
(ACT)<br />
BIG MAGPIE<br />
(ACT)<br />
BIG TURTLE<br />
(NT)<br />
BIG<br />
BARRAMUND<br />
I (NT)<br />
BIG MINER<br />
(SA)<br />
BIG GUITAR<br />
(NSW)<br />
BIG MURRAY<br />
COD (VIC)<br />
BIG<br />
DINOSAUR<br />
(ACT)<br />
BIG PENGUIN<br />
(TAS)<br />
STAMP<br />
COLLECTING<br />
Behind every stamp is a great story. Stamps<br />
tell us about current and historical events as<br />
well as the world around us. Stamps are part<br />
of this unfolding story, and this is why stamp<br />
collecting has always been, and remains, one<br />
of the most popular hobbies in the world.<br />
STARTING TO COLLECT STAMPS<br />
Most stamp collectors collect according to particular<br />
themes. <strong>The</strong>re are numerous ways to choose a<br />
theme for collecting stamps, but most stamp<br />
collectors select one or more countries and collect<br />
their stamps or, pick a topic relating to the subject<br />
matter of stamp designs. Either way, you can<br />
experience the pleasure of growing your collection.<br />
BIG MERINO<br />
(NSW)<br />
BIG<br />
CROCODILE<br />
(NT)<br />
BIG COINS<br />
(ACT)<br />
BIG<br />
STRAWBERRY<br />
(VIC)<br />
BIG<br />
LOLLIPOP<br />
(WA)<br />
BIG<br />
GUMBOOT<br />
(QLD)<br />
BIG NED<br />
KELLY (VIC)<br />
BIG TASSIE<br />
DEVIL (TAS)<br />
BIG<br />
CRAYFISH<br />
(SA)<br />
BIG<br />
CASSOWARY<br />
(QLD)<br />
<strong>The</strong> key to identifying worthwhile collecting<br />
opportunities is to understand the background to<br />
the various categories of stamps produced. If you<br />
chose to collect Australian stamps, remember that<br />
thousands of stamps have been issued in Australia<br />
since the 19th Century and the beginner will find it<br />
daunting if the objective is to build a substantial<br />
collection. A better option is to collect a specific<br />
type of Australian stamps.<br />
NT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS<br />
NT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS<br />
DARWIN/KATHERINE SHOW DAYS<br />
*Dates are provided as a guide only, and we encourage you to check<br />
with your local school or Government for up to date holidays. Katherine<br />
Show Day is scheduled for 19 July <strong>2024</strong>, Darwin Show Day is scheduled<br />
for 26 July <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
WIN<br />
AUSSIE BIG THINGS<br />
COIN SET<br />
Includes a special display folder,<br />
with 10 all-new $1 coins, struck by<br />
the Royal Australian Mint, featuring<br />
some of the most iconic ‘Big<br />
Things’ scattered around the<br />
country.<br />
ENTER NOW AT<br />
THETOPENDERMAGAZINE.ORG.AU/WIN<br />
TERMS: Open to <strong>Top</strong> End based Defence members, veterans and their<br />
immediate families. Closes 10 <strong>January</strong> <strong>2024</strong>. Enter online by visiting www.<br />
thetopendermagazine.org.au/win<br />
A good starting point is stamps created after 1989,<br />
which marked the commencement of ‘secret year’<br />
dates on Australian stamps. Every stamp issued<br />
since 27 February 1989 carries the year of issue<br />
somewhere in the design, usually in tiny text. Prior to<br />
1989 the year of issue only appeared on<br />
commemorative stamps.<br />
HOW TO ACQUIRE STAMPS<br />
While the easiest way to accumulate stamps might<br />
be to take them off mail you receive, you may not<br />
receive mail with the theme you would like to<br />
collect. If you wish to collect in a methodical way,<br />
you will find it necessary to purchase the stamps you<br />
need, which can cost some money to purchase from<br />
other stamp collectors or stamp traders.<br />
People who sell stamps to collectors are called<br />
stamp traders - they generally focus exclusively on<br />
dealing in stamps and philatelic items, and they are<br />
usually knowledgeable about the items they offer<br />
for sale. You can find stamps in second hand shops,<br />
antique shops, online marketplaces, markets and<br />
many stamp traders appear at stamp fairs and<br />
exhibitions.<br />
Photos: Australia’s first postage stamp -<br />
One penny red stamp featuring red<br />
kangaroo on a white map of Australia<br />
and a 1938 Green Koala Stamp.<br />
<strong>The</strong> NT Government have an online calendar of school holiday events<br />
for all areas of the NT. Head to: https://nt.gov.au/leisure/sport/activities/<br />
holiday-activities-for-young-people#printable-calendar<br />
Winner(s) will be drawn at random. Winner(s) will be notified by email/phone<br />
Activities<br />
8<br />
include: <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> Barista <strong>Ender</strong> workshops,<br />
| Tri-Services<br />
jewellery<br />
<strong>Magazine</strong><br />
making,<br />
Incorporated<br />
creative arts,<br />
and announced in the next edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 9<br />
sports and fitness and pool parties!
Royal Flying Doctor Service Displays:<br />
• 2 x Virtual Reality stories of the RFDS - Relive<br />
the true experience of patient Gene<br />
Hildebrand and see what it's like to fly with<br />
an RFDS Pilot.<br />
• Life size hologram of John Flynn the<br />
Founder of the Flying Doctor<br />
Service tells his story of the<br />
birth and growth of the<br />
RFDS.<br />
• Two interactive story<br />
telling mini ghosts. Meet<br />
Alf Traeger and Nurse<br />
Kathy who answer<br />
selected questions from a<br />
touch panel.<br />
• A decommissioned RFDS<br />
Pilatus PC 12 aircraft that<br />
allows visitors inside the aircraft and<br />
experience a fully aero medically equipped<br />
fitout.<br />
Did you know?<br />
Reverend John Flynn<br />
OBE features on the<br />
current $20 Australian<br />
bank note.<br />
• Pedal Radio invented by Alf Traeger and used<br />
by people of the Outback.<br />
In 1911, Reverend John Flynn experienced the challenges of outback life whilst based in Beltana, South<br />
Australia. He had soon learnt there was no medical care available to inland residents and travellers. In 1912,<br />
Flynn was commissioned by the Presbyterian Church to survey the needs of Aboriginal people and white<br />
settlers of the Northern Territory. He travelled by ship to Darwin where he visited Katherine, Bathurst Island<br />
and Adelaide River to prepare a report, which led to the development of 10 strategically placed nursing<br />
hostels and chaplains under Flynn’s leadership by 1926.<br />
In 1917, Flynn received an inspirational letter from Lieutenant John<br />
Clifford Peel, a medical student with an interest in aviation... In<br />
the letter, Lieutenant Peel suggested the use of aviation to<br />
bring medical help to the Outback; a revolutionary idea! For<br />
the next 10 years, Flynn campaigned for the aerial medical<br />
service and his vision became reality when a long-time<br />
supporter left a large bequest for 'an aerial experiment',<br />
enabling Flynn to establish the Australian Aerial Medical<br />
Service.<br />
In 1942, the Australian Aerial Medical Service was changed<br />
to the Flying Doctor Service of Australia.<br />
After his passing in 1951, Flynn was cremated and his ashes<br />
placed at rest under the Flynn Memorial, just west of Alice<br />
Springs at Mt Gillen.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Australian Flying Doctor Service was designated as ‘Royal’ in 1955.<br />
Did you know?<br />
<strong>The</strong> Royal Flying Doctors<br />
Service (RFDS) Darwin<br />
Tourist Facility is full of hightech<br />
displays showcasing the<br />
history of the RFDS and the<br />
history of the Darwin<br />
Bombing. This is a must do<br />
experience during your time<br />
in Darwin.<br />
Flynn once said; "If you start something worthwhile - nothing can stop it." <strong>The</strong>re are now 21 flying doctor<br />
bases around Australia, providing aerial care across 7.15 million square kilometres. Alice Springs became the<br />
centre of the vast territory to which Flynn implemented communication, medical comfort and pastoral care.<br />
Sources: https://www.rfdsdarwin.com.au/ | https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/<br />
http://www.crustaceans.net.au/ | https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/about-the-rfds/history/john-flynn-bio/<br />
Have you experienced the Bombing of Darwin<br />
Virtual Reality experience at Stokes Hill Wharf?<br />
Imagine you are standing on the deck of the<br />
Neptuna as it bombed to the point of it<br />
exploding and sinking... Or sitting on the wing of<br />
an American Kitty Hawk, engaging in a dogfight<br />
with the Japanese Zero's - this is a truly unique<br />
immersion experience.<br />
Bombing of Darwin Harbour Displays:<br />
• Life size hologram of Rear Admiral Etheridge<br />
Grant was the Commanding Officer of the<br />
USS William B Preston narrates his own<br />
version of the Bombing of Darwin Harbour.<br />
Includes headset audio translation in Japanese,<br />
German, French and Simplified Chinese.<br />
• Interactive story telling mini ghosts - Meet<br />
Prime Minister John Curtin and Japanese Pilot<br />
Hajime Toyoshima who answer selected<br />
questions from a touch panel.<br />
• Virtual Reality of the bombing of Darwin<br />
Harbour. This production is the pinnacle of a<br />
movie production for VR.<br />
• Full size replica Japanese Zero aircraft hanging<br />
from the ceiling.<br />
• Replica of Camilla the Flying Boat that<br />
escaped from Darwin Harbour.<br />
Written by Amanda Letcher<br />
Community Contributor<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
OPENING<br />
HOURS<br />
DRY SEASON<br />
(April - September)<br />
9am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)<br />
WET SEASON<br />
(October - March)<br />
9am to 4pm (last entry 3pm)<br />
Public Holidays 10:00am - 3:00pm (last entry @ 2:00pm)<br />
Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday<br />
(08) 8983 5700<br />
rfdsdarwin@flyingdoctor.net<br />
www.rfdsdarwin.com.au<br />
ENTRY FEES<br />
TICKETS START<br />
FROM $30 PP<br />
SEE WEBSITE FOR<br />
MORE<br />
INFORMATION<br />
10 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 11
NT LEGACY<br />
50 YEARS<br />
Northern Territory Legacy has<br />
had an extraordinarily busy and<br />
successful 50th Anniversary<br />
year!<br />
Our Torch relay event brought<br />
Territorian’s together, young and old<br />
in a celebration to mark 100 years of<br />
continuing ‘<strong>The</strong> Promise’ made on the<br />
battlefields.<br />
Community members celebrated<br />
alongside ADF personnel and local<br />
dignitaries throughout celebrations in<br />
Darwin, Adelaide River and Alice Springs.<br />
Once again, we thank our amazing ADF<br />
partners in supporting all we do<br />
throughout the year. Without their<br />
assistance we would not have been able to<br />
host successful Badge and Poppy Day sales.<br />
<strong>The</strong> ADF Ball and recent soccer game at<br />
Marrara all assisted toward raising vital funds.<br />
<strong>The</strong> proceeds of which go to assist all of our<br />
100 Beneficiaries and their families throughout<br />
the year. Extra special efforts by members of<br />
5RAR who participated in ‘Remembrance 24<br />
for 24’ were unexpected and so very much<br />
appreciated.<br />
This year we also celebrated with long serving<br />
Legatee Jack Hamilton, who took out the Chief<br />
Ministers Volunteer of the Year Award! Jack is<br />
the face of Legacy in the Northern Territory and<br />
always goes above and beyond for his families.<br />
We recently had our annual Christmas Knees-Up<br />
where each of our Beneficiaries received a<br />
Christmas gift from their Legatee via our generous<br />
sponsors Officeworks, Defence Health, Mates for<br />
Mates and <strong>The</strong> Cancer Council. In Style Hair and<br />
Beauty also donated Lucky Door Prizes.<br />
Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and Happy<br />
New Year.<br />
Written by Suzie Spedding<br />
Legacy NT<br />
ENJOYING<br />
CHRISTMAS<br />
FROM A<br />
DISTANCE<br />
With the standdown period approaching and many defence<br />
members leaving the NT for Christmas, this may also be an<br />
opportunity to plan a “stay-cation” and enjoy Christmas in the<br />
tropics. Spending time away from loved ones does not need to be<br />
lonely or disconnected, so we have some ideas to help you<br />
embrace the magic of Christmas from a distance:<br />
PLAN EARLY<br />
Plan ahead with gift purchases and postage to avoid last minute rushing. Allow<br />
extra time for interstate posting in the lead up to Christmas.<br />
CHRISTMAS MAGIC<br />
When we find ourselves relocating every 2-3 years, we can often miss the<br />
excitement of Christmas while we focus on packing all the decorations,<br />
except for a stick “tree” and a couple of baubles. <strong>The</strong> year, you can relax and<br />
enjoy a Christmas at home without worrying about being in transit or<br />
transporting everything on your interstate holiday.<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
If you know of other families who are staying in location this Christmas, it’s a<br />
nice idea to embrace the opportunity to connect with other defence families.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are also a number of free festive community events around the <strong>Top</strong><br />
End – keep an eye on social media and newspapers for more info.<br />
CARDS<br />
It seems like a traditional idea to send Christmas<br />
cards, however it’s a very thoughtful way to spread<br />
joy to loved ones around the country. Sending cards<br />
in the mail is a lovely way to connect on a<br />
personal level, especially for loved ones who<br />
would normally spend Christmas with you - you<br />
could also send a family newsletter with photos<br />
of your adventure around the <strong>Top</strong> End!<br />
VOLUNTEER<br />
If you are feeling lonely this Christmas and not sure how to spend your time,<br />
you could consider volunteering for an organisation or event, like a soup<br />
kitchen or food bank.<br />
CASUAL WORK<br />
If you are not travelling over the Christmas break and have more time at<br />
home, consider the option of some casual work in the lead up to Christmas<br />
and during the wet season. You may be able to use this downtime to save<br />
some extra funds and plan ahead for your <strong>2024</strong> goals!<br />
MONSOON MAGIC<br />
Although the humidity may be oppressive, the wet season is an amazing time<br />
of the year to enjoy the sound of monsoonal rain through open louvres,<br />
lightning shows, puddle jumping and searching for croaking frogs amongst<br />
tropical foliage. <strong>The</strong> vibrancy and drama of the wet season is something to be<br />
celebrated and a great experience of life in the tropics.<br />
Written by Deb Herring<br />
Committee Member<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
ADVENTURE<br />
While you have some time at home, it’s a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy your own ‘backyard’! With so much to<br />
do in the <strong>Top</strong> End and lots of businesses who are keen for local support during the off-peak season, this is a good time<br />
to invest in local tourism and plan some “day-cations”. You don’t need to travel interstate to have an amazing time!<br />
Whatever you find yourself doing this festive season, stay safe and try to make the most of every moment while enjoying<br />
what the <strong>Top</strong> End has to offer!<br />
12 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 13
THE<br />
Discover the happiness of giving and how to<br />
include acts of kindness in your life for a more<br />
fulfilling experience.<br />
THE SCIENCE OF GIVING AND HAPPINESS<br />
Research in psychology and neuroscience has<br />
consistently shown that acts of kindness and<br />
generosity can have a powerful impact on our<br />
mental and emotional well-being. When we<br />
engage in acts of giving, our brains release<br />
chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, commonly<br />
associated with feelings of pleasure, reward, and<br />
bonding.<br />
In a study published in the journal PNAS,<br />
generous behaviour showed increased activation<br />
in the ventral striatum, a brain region associated<br />
with pleasure and reward (Harbaugh et al., 2007).<br />
OF<br />
FINDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIVING<br />
You don't need to perform grand, elaborate acts of<br />
generosity to experience the joy of giving. In fact,<br />
some of the most meaningful acts of kindness are<br />
often the simplest. Surprising someone with a small<br />
gift, volunteering for a local charity, assisting a<br />
neighbour in need, or offering support to a cause<br />
close to your heart. Sometimes, the greatest gift you<br />
can give is your undivided attention. Be there for a<br />
friend or loved one who needs someone to talk to.<br />
By making acts of kindness a regular part of your life,<br />
you not only bring happiness to others but also find a<br />
lasting sense of fulfillment within yourself.<br />
CHRISTMAS<br />
COMMUNITY EVENTS<br />
02 DEC<br />
From 5:30pm | Lindsay Street Complex<br />
KATHERINE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT <strong>2023</strong><br />
This is a free Family Friendly event. <strong>The</strong>re will also<br />
be free photos with Santa and lots of yummy food<br />
vendors onsite selling dinner and dessert. BYO camp<br />
chair or picnic rug and enjoy the Christmas festivities.<br />
03 DEC<br />
4:30 pm to 8:30 pm | George Brown Darwin Botanic<br />
Gardens<br />
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT<br />
Join us and our amazing line up of talent, including<br />
the Man in the Red Suit for a magical night of carols<br />
1st Brigade the Australian Army Band and the<br />
Christmas Choir. Admissions in cash donation at the<br />
gate. Food and drinks will be available on site at a<br />
cost. Ending with spectacular fireworks display.<br />
09 DEC<br />
18:00 – 19:00 | Peninsula Lawns, Darwin Waterfront<br />
WATERFRONT CAROLS<br />
Bring a picnic blanket, sit back and listen to the<br />
Christmas tunes from Arafura Wind Ensemble<br />
From 5:30pm | Leanyer Recreation Park<br />
CAROLS AT THE WATERPARK<br />
Kids activities and food starts 5:30pm, Carols start<br />
6:30pm. Entry and kids activities are free. Candles by<br />
donation. Food available for sale.<br />
17-24 DEC<br />
5-9.30pm | Goyder Square<br />
PALMERSTON’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND<br />
18-22 DEC<br />
10am daily | Palmerston Library<br />
CHRISTMAS CRAFT WEEK<br />
14 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 15
Defence Member and Family Support<br />
It’s time for tinsel, Christmas trees and the opportunity to<br />
spend time with family and friends!<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are many families that will be preparing to post to new<br />
locations either leaving the Territory or arriving. Take the time to link<br />
in with your local DMFS area office and meet our friendly team. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
can tell you about the array of activities we hold throughout the year,<br />
or simply connect with your local community. <strong>The</strong>re will also be a<br />
number of community sports starting from mid-<strong>January</strong> and the<br />
NT has School Sports Vouchers, which provide a great opportunity<br />
for families to try new activities.<br />
Coming into the new year, ensure you save the date for our<br />
popular expos, Welcome to Katherine & Tindal Expo on 2 February<br />
<strong>2024</strong> and our Welcome to the <strong>Top</strong> End Expo on 10 February <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
If you’ve recently posted into the NT, or even if you’ve been here a<br />
while you can find out more about what’s available in the local area<br />
and meet up with other Defence families. <strong>The</strong>re’s no need to register<br />
for this event, just save the date and come along!<br />
Remember, Defence Member and Family Support are here to help.<br />
Reach out to the Defence Member and Family Helpline at any time<br />
for advice, support or connection with your local community.<br />
Our website is a great source of information on ADF member and<br />
family content so be sure to bookmark our URL or dip into our<br />
Defence Member and Family Information Guide Defence Member<br />
and Family Information Guide | About | Defence<br />
You can also follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on<br />
planned events.<br />
DMFS Activities<br />
<strong>The</strong> DMFS team are excited to have a<br />
series of activities ready to help you ease<br />
into your new communities. Are you<br />
wondering what activities we have<br />
coming up? Take the time to check our<br />
‘Events’ page Local services and events |<br />
ADF Members & Families | Defence<br />
For newly added activities and keep an<br />
eye on DMFS social media, Eventbrite or<br />
eNewsletters, which you can subscribe to<br />
at our QR codes. And remember, our<br />
events in Darwin and Tindal are available<br />
to all Northern Territory ADF members<br />
and their families.<br />
You can subscribe to our e-News by<br />
scanning the below QR codes. You can<br />
subscribe to our e-News by scanning the<br />
QR codes.<br />
Stay Connected<br />
1800 624 608<br />
memberandfamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au<br />
defence.gov.au/members-families<br />
DARWIN<br />
TINDAL<br />
DMFS_AusDefence<br />
DMFS_AusDefence<br />
DefenceMemberFamilySupport<br />
dmfs-darwin.eventbrite.com.au<br />
dmfs-tindal.eventbrite.com.au<br />
Woman’s Health Week morning tea<br />
DMFS Darwin hosted a Women’s Health Week<br />
morning tea for female ADF members and<br />
female spouses of ADF members at Billeroy<br />
Veterans and Families Community Centre. <strong>The</strong><br />
morning tea included a Sound Healing session run<br />
by Eliza from A Sacred Space, a talk on Positive<br />
Psychology from one of our very own Defence<br />
Social Workers and a morning tea that gave<br />
everyone a chance to network. A huge thank you<br />
to Dan for allowing us to hold such a powerful<br />
event at Billeroy Veterans and Families Community<br />
Centre.<br />
Photos: Relax, listen and connect © DMFS<br />
Take Aim at Laser Tag<br />
ADF members and their families joined DMFS<br />
Darwin for a Saturday afternoon game of laser<br />
tag, at Zone 3 in Darwin City. With the weather<br />
starting to turn into the build-up, this was not<br />
only a great way to claim bragging rights in your<br />
family, but a fantastic way to help stay cool.<br />
Photos: With Star Wars themed names…May the force be with<br />
you! © DMFS<br />
Written by Dianne Elson<br />
Area Manager NT<br />
Defence Member and Family Support<br />
Stargazing<br />
Ever wondered what the rings of Saturn looked like under<br />
a Blue moon? DMFS Darwin along with ADF members<br />
and their families came together to answer this question.<br />
Joining <strong>Top</strong> End Star Gazers at Casuarina Senior College,<br />
we were able to get a close-up view of Saturn, the<br />
wishing well cluster and a clear view of the Blue moon.<br />
Photos: Once in a Blue Moon © DMFS<br />
Fairy Gardens and Dinosaur Habitats<br />
DMFS Tindal recently hosted ADF families in a school<br />
holiday activity full of magic and creativity. <strong>The</strong> children<br />
designed mini gardens with fairies, Dinosaurs, babbling<br />
brooks and secret hiding places whilst they made wells,<br />
doors, trees, and paths with their own imaginations. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
also were able to engage with other ADF children and<br />
enjoy some quality time with their parents.<br />
Photo: Magic Wonderlands and Prehistoric Worlds © DMFS<br />
Child of the ADF Medallion Ceremony, Tindal<br />
DMFS NT recently hosted the inaugural Child of the ADF<br />
Medallion Ceremony at RAAF Base Tindal. ADF families were<br />
invited to join DMFS NT at the Tindal Sergeant’s Mess, where<br />
children were awarded the Child of the ADF Medallion by<br />
WGCDR Fiona Pearce, SADFO of RAAF Base Tindal and Ms<br />
Di Elson, Area Manager of DMFS NT. All of the children were<br />
dressed in their finest outfits to receive their award, and from<br />
the excitement shown on their faces they really appreciated the<br />
recognition of their ability to strive during times of uncertainty<br />
and change. Afterwards, the families connected with each other<br />
over light refreshments.<br />
DMFS NT looks forward to hosting the Child of the ADF<br />
Medallion Ceremony yearly in Tindal and Darwin.<br />
Pour the Love of Resin<br />
Resin, colourful pigments and glitter. Mix these together<br />
and you will walk away with amazing trinket trays and a<br />
wonderful platter. DMFS Darwin hosted a Resin casting<br />
workshop for ADF members and their partners, where<br />
guests unleashed their creative side and created a<br />
masterpiece to take home and display.<br />
Photo: will it be the same or won’t it? © DMFS<br />
Defence Member and Family Support are here to help. Reach out to the Defence Member and Family Helpline 1800 624 608 at any<br />
time for advice, support or connection with your local community. Our website has information on ADF member and family content<br />
16 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 17<br />
so be sure to bookmark our URL and follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on planned events.
THE<br />
LEGACY<br />
CENTENARY<br />
TORCH RELAY<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
PRESENTED BY<br />
INSPIRED BY THE FLAME<br />
During my childhood, Legacy was such a prominent part of<br />
our lives; we were awed by the understanding that we were<br />
supporting our fathers, grandfathers, uncles and brothers after<br />
the wars; it was our national responsibility to support those<br />
who’d fought for our freedom.<br />
Where once as a nation we held ownership, now it seems that is not<br />
the case. Over time, it fell quiet to those not directly involved with<br />
Defence and it could be argued that many families know little about<br />
Legacy and what they do. Whilst it was no longer as prominent in our<br />
communities as it once was, Legacy continues to provide support to<br />
families of those lost or injured as part of their commitment to our<br />
country.<br />
Although the Centenary Relay has come to an end, the support<br />
provided by Legacy continues and that is why I continue to share<br />
inspiring stories from relay participants; to spread the word and<br />
hopefully inspire our nation to support Legacy.<br />
Written by Char Carter<br />
Community Coordinator<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
“Participating in the Legacy relay was a humbling<br />
experience. I wanted to be part of an event that shone a<br />
light (pardon the pun) on the century of assistance to our<br />
armed forces and our veteran families. I really appreciated<br />
the opportunity to carry forward the story of Legacy and<br />
the differences it makes in the lives of those who have lost<br />
a loved one in our nation’s name.<br />
I won’t be here for the 200-year celebration, but I hope that<br />
the torch is still burning brightly for the debt of honour we<br />
have to care for those Australian brothers and sisters lost to<br />
us in this world, Lest We Forget.”<br />
– Luke Gosling<br />
LEGACY<br />
We are there for the partners and the children of those<br />
who gave their lives or their health for our country. We<br />
provide the essential social, financial and developmental<br />
support that these families depend on each day.<br />
https://www.legacy.com.au/<br />
“My Great-grandmother and my<br />
grandfather were beneficiaries of Legacy.<br />
Great-granddad was in WWII - we think<br />
he was part of the Kokoda campaign.<br />
My grandfather was in the Army, and I<br />
am in the RAAF, so we have defence in<br />
our blood! I have always helped out in<br />
the community, and I think Legacy is a<br />
good way to give back to the defence<br />
community, so I became a Legatee.<br />
Carrying the torch might not seem like<br />
much to many people, but it meant a lot<br />
to me. It made me feel like I was doing<br />
the right thing, giving back to so many<br />
who have given up their lives for us. So<br />
many people stopped and asked about<br />
the flame and what we were doing; it<br />
was cool! Just holding the flame,<br />
especially in the centenary year, was<br />
really special, a way of giving back and<br />
acknowledging those who’ve passed<br />
before us”<br />
– Katie, Legatee<br />
18 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 19
WIN<br />
With the festive season upon us and many of us<br />
posting in and out of location, we have decided to<br />
run our feature competitions on our Facebook<br />
Page for this edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
To enter, make sure you have liked our Facebook<br />
Page and follow the instructions on the<br />
competition posts. We will be featuring lots of<br />
giveaways just in time for Christmas, so you could<br />
add a special prize under the tree this year!<br />
FAMILY COMPS<br />
THE AUSTRALIAN<br />
WOMEN’S LAND ARMY<br />
(AWLA)<br />
In <strong>December</strong> 1941, when Japan entered the Second World War, our nation was<br />
focused on building up our armed forces in preference of other industries, which<br />
resulted in agricultural labour being steadily diverted to the armed services and<br />
to vital war industries.<br />
Land Armies started popping up across the nation to help fill the local shortages.<br />
This was met with some hesitation from farmers and women alike, however, in<br />
1942 the Australian Women’s Land Army (AWLA) formed a state-based<br />
initiative (modelled on those established in Great Britain) to meet the shortfall<br />
in rural labour. An extensive recruiting campaign was undertaken for new<br />
members, with members of the existing land armies incorporated into the<br />
AWLA.<br />
AWLA women were generally drawn from city areas<br />
and were often unskilled in rural work. This new form<br />
of labour had to be heavily promoted to rural<br />
employers, who were initially resistant to utilise female<br />
labour.<br />
DID<br />
YOU<br />
KNOW?<br />
<strong>The</strong> AWLA was<br />
disbanded on<br />
31 <strong>December</strong><br />
1945.<br />
Thankfully, attitudes generally changed over time and<br />
farmers came to praise and respect female employees<br />
and their productivity.<br />
<strong>The</strong> AWLA functioned in two divisions:<br />
Full-time members: <strong>The</strong>se women enrolled for<br />
continuous service for 12 months (with the option of<br />
renewal). <strong>The</strong>y received badges, distinctive dress<br />
uniform, working clothes and equipment.<br />
Auxiliary members: <strong>The</strong>se women were available for<br />
periods of at least four weeks at nominated times of<br />
the year. <strong>The</strong>y worked on seasonal rural operations and<br />
received a badge, working clothes and essential<br />
equipment on loan for these times.<br />
Recruits had to be aged between 18 and 50 years and<br />
be British subjects or immigrants from Allied nations.<br />
Women on the land who were already farmers,<br />
employees or relatives of landholders were not eligible<br />
to enlist. Enrolment numbers peaked in <strong>December</strong><br />
1943, with 2,382 permanent members and 1,039<br />
auxiliary members of the QWLA.<br />
<strong>The</strong> average working week for an AWLA member was<br />
48 hours, with pay starting at the AWLA minimum<br />
wage of 30 shillings a week. Permanent members were<br />
also entitled to sick pay. Women were paid much less<br />
than their male counterparts for the same work, which<br />
covered diverse roles such as vegetable and fruit<br />
growing, pig and poultry raising, and sheep and wool<br />
work.<br />
Written by Amanda Letcher<br />
Community Contributor<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
<strong>The</strong>y were also involved in the production of flax,<br />
which was one of the most important products<br />
during the war. It was used for all sorts of clothing<br />
and equipment from coats to parachute harnesses,<br />
ropes to tarpaulins and even to cover gliders used to<br />
transport troops.<br />
In 1997, many former members of the AWLA became<br />
eligible for the Civilian Service Medal, following on from<br />
a 1994 Committee of Enquiry recommendation.<br />
Photo: Image Credit Information Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au | DVA | Daily Telegraph | NLA.gov.au<br />
Sources: https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/homefront/land_army<br />
20 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 21
DVA DEPUTY COMMISSIONER<br />
END OF YEAR REFLECTION<br />
As I look back on the year, I think it is<br />
important to acknowledge the<br />
accomplishments and milestones that so many<br />
people have worked hard to achieve. Working<br />
together with a shared aim to provide support<br />
to veterans and families, we have made great<br />
strides to strengthen the veteran community<br />
here in the Northern Territory.<br />
During <strong>January</strong> and February, we welcomed new<br />
post-ins to the <strong>Top</strong> End and Tindal at two expos<br />
hosted by Defence Member and Family Services<br />
(DMFS). This was followed by a visit from Veteran<br />
Family Advocate Commissioner Gwen Cherne who<br />
facilitated a town-hall style forum, to speak with<br />
veterans’ families and service providers about the<br />
Defence and Veteran Family Strategy, and to better<br />
understand the unique nature of living in the NT.<br />
In mid-February, the then Repatriation<br />
Commissioner Don Spinks received a warm<br />
welcome when he arrived in Darwin. He met with<br />
the community, attended the Bombing of Darwin<br />
commemoration, conducted Defence Base visits and<br />
participated in discussions with Ex-Service<br />
Organisations to hear about their work and to<br />
ensure the Department was meeting the<br />
community’s needs.<br />
In April, we paid our respects to those who served<br />
at various Anzac Day commemorations and<br />
launched DVA’s new communication strategy to<br />
encourage members of Regional Force Surveillance<br />
Units in Northern Australia to apply for the<br />
Australian Veterans’ Covenant.<br />
May signalled two milestone occasions. <strong>The</strong> NT<br />
Government launched the Defence Veterans<br />
Strategy and Darwin hosted a leg of the Legacy<br />
Centenary Torch Relay. <strong>The</strong> route went from RAAF<br />
Base Darwin and concluded outside Parliament<br />
House, which stands on the site of the original Post<br />
Office that was significantly damaged in the first<br />
wave of bombings in February 1942. To close the<br />
month, Minister Matt Keogh officially opened the<br />
Mates4Mates Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in Stuart<br />
Park, as part of the Hub network expansion across<br />
Australia. It was great to see so many local<br />
organisations and stakeholders come together to<br />
celebrate this new space, which has already had a<br />
positive impact.<br />
August marked 50 years since the end of Australia’s<br />
involvement in the Vietnam War. <strong>The</strong> Australian<br />
Government held a National Commemorative<br />
Service in Canberra and produced a 50th<br />
anniversary commemorative medallion and<br />
certificate of recognition, honouring every Australian<br />
who served during this time. Commemoration<br />
services were held across the region with many in<br />
attendance.<br />
Tragedy struck our community when an MV-22B<br />
Osprey aircraft crashed on the Tiwi Islands during a<br />
training exercise. <strong>The</strong> crash resulted in the death of<br />
three US Marines with a further 20 injured. A<br />
candlelight vigil was held for those involved with<br />
more than 100 people in attendance. We extend<br />
our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families<br />
and thank you for your service. Lest we forget. For<br />
anyone who may be affected, please remember<br />
Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling is<br />
always there to provide support. Free and<br />
confidential help is available 24/7 on<br />
1800 011 046 or by visiting openarms.gov.<br />
au.<br />
With the retirement of Don Spinks in<br />
July, the Minister announced the<br />
appointment of Kahlil Fegan DSC AM as<br />
the new Repatriation Commissioner on<br />
15 September. Commissioner Fegan<br />
brings significant lived experience to the<br />
position and his connection to the<br />
current generation of veterans will<br />
prove invaluable as the Department<br />
seeks to engage and work closer with<br />
the younger veteran cohort.<br />
We celebrated all things Mental Wellness<br />
during Veterans’ Health Week <strong>2023</strong>, with<br />
hundreds of applications for funding<br />
Australia wide and a variety of events and<br />
activities held in the NT including:<br />
gardening, arts and crafts, family movie<br />
nights, table tennis competitions, fishing,<br />
bike riding, chocolate making, meat<br />
smoking, Pilates and yoga topped off with<br />
an ice bath to cool down!<br />
Every year at 11am on 11 November<br />
we pause to remember the men and<br />
women who have died or suffered in all<br />
wars, conflicts and peace operations.<br />
On Remembrance Day, we pay our<br />
respects to those who serve, or have<br />
served, in the defence of our nation and<br />
acknowledge the families and loved ones<br />
who support them. Thank you for your<br />
service.<br />
We will farewell those posting out of the<br />
Territory in <strong>December</strong>, just as the<br />
humidity hits its peak. Please make<br />
contact with your local veteran or<br />
defence family community group in your<br />
new town to stay connected. DVA<br />
services are also accessible in most major<br />
towns with our Veteran Support Officers<br />
providing services on more than 50 bases<br />
around Australia. To book an<br />
appointment on base you can email<br />
VSO@dva.gov.au<br />
Photo: Celebrating the Legacy Torch Centenary in the NT. (From left) Eric<br />
Easterbrook OAM - Chairman of Legacy Australia; Jack Hamilton – torch bearer and<br />
Louise Ruhl, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Northern<br />
Territory.<br />
<strong>The</strong> holidays can be a challenging time. If you find yourself in<br />
need of extra support during this time, Open Arms is available<br />
to provide support. Free and confidential help is available 24/7<br />
on 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au.<br />
From everyone in the Darwin DVA team, we wish you a safe<br />
and merry festive season. DVA will offer limited services over<br />
the Christmas/New Year period, with the Darwin offices<br />
reopening on 2 <strong>January</strong> <strong>2024</strong>. You can contact 1800 VETERAN<br />
(1800 838 372) or visit the website www.dva.gov.au for more<br />
information on available services.<br />
Written by Louise Ruhl<br />
Acting Deputy Commissioner, NT<br />
Department of Veterans’ Affairs<br />
Contact Department<br />
of Veterans’ Affairs, NT<br />
1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372)<br />
8:30am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday<br />
14 Winnellie Road, Winnellie 0820<br />
22 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 23
Things tend to slow down over the year-end holiday<br />
season in the <strong>Top</strong> End, and this can be a good thing for<br />
busy Defence families like ours.<br />
No matter how you choose to spend this time, I hope you are able<br />
to find time to reset before we launch into another busy year.<br />
Despite having operated in caretaker mode for a portion of <strong>2023</strong><br />
while awaiting the appointment of a new Defence Family Advocate<br />
of Australia, the DFA team has continued to advocate for families,<br />
particularly with regard to the proposed change to Army units and<br />
formations from 2025.<br />
In response to the Defence Strategic Review, Army has<br />
announced the restructure with Darwin's 5th Battalion to be relinked<br />
with Adelaide's 7th Battalion to become 5th/7th Battalion.<br />
Army has assured personnel and families that they will not be<br />
moved outside of normal posting cycles, unless requested, to<br />
minimise the impact of change.<br />
My focus over the next few months will be to support families<br />
with access to flexible and suitable housing, education, childcare,<br />
employment and other necessary assistance. Many of these<br />
themes are included in the latest version of our Advocacy Map,<br />
which you can find on our website or by scanning the QR code<br />
below.<br />
If you have concerns about any of these issues, I encourage you to<br />
reach out to me on my details listed below.<br />
In November <strong>2023</strong>, the DFA team gathered in Canberra to<br />
engage with Government and Defence stakeholders with regard<br />
to families, and how we can work together to improve outcomes.<br />
This led straight into Remembrance Day, and as usual, Darwin came<br />
out in force to show their respect for those who served for this<br />
beautiful country.<br />
With the posting peak as well as storm season upon us, I recognise<br />
it can be a stressful time. It is important for you to remember that<br />
the DFA team are here to support you with complex cases and are<br />
only a phone call away.<br />
I look forward to meeting more members and families at the<br />
upcoming events in the <strong>Top</strong> End, and to a wonderful <strong>2024</strong> ahead.<br />
Written by Samantha Cooper<br />
National Delegate Northern Territory and Kimberley<br />
Defence Families of Australia<br />
Contact Defence Families of Australia<br />
Get in touch with us:<br />
ABOUT DFA<br />
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the<br />
official Australian Defence Force (ADF)<br />
families advisory body to the Minister for<br />
Defence Personnel and Chief of the<br />
Defence Force (CDF).<br />
Our organisation sits outside of Defence<br />
systems, allowing DFA independence and<br />
impartiality to act in the best interests of<br />
ADF families.<br />
We are connected to Defence family<br />
communities in our regions and are<br />
largely veterans or family of Australian<br />
Defence Force members.<br />
To find out more about how DFA can<br />
assist you, go to https://dfa.org.au<br />
View our<br />
Advocacy Map<br />
by scanning the<br />
QR Code<br />
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24 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> of_australia<br />
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Veterans Health Week activities by hosting a yoga session down by the Bay, at the<br />
Darwin Trailer Boat Club, followed by a delicious morning tea and fresh juices.<br />
Our last book club for the year was celebrated with a paint by numbers session. If<br />
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26 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 27
STATEMENT BY FEDERAL MEMBER<br />
I was proud to recently represent the<br />
Federal Parliament, along with Senator<br />
David Fawcett, at the NATO<br />
Parliamentary Assembly in<br />
Copenhagen. On the way home I<br />
stopped by the UK to visit our<br />
Australian soldiers who are working<br />
with the British military to train<br />
Ukrainian soldiers for the defence of<br />
their homeland against the illegal and<br />
immoral Russian invasion. I am very<br />
proud of these soldiers who are from<br />
Darwin, from my electorate, from the<br />
5th Battalion of the Royal Australian<br />
Regiment and also from the 1st<br />
Combat Health Battalion and the 1st<br />
Combat Engineer Regiment. It makes<br />
you so proud to see our soldiers in<br />
action - they truly are the world's best.<br />
<strong>The</strong>ir mission is to train the Ukrainian<br />
soldiers so that they are able to go to<br />
the frontline and defend against the<br />
Russians and push them out of their<br />
nation. <strong>The</strong>y're imparting skills,<br />
knowledge and a good fighting attitude<br />
that the Ukrainian soldiers are going to<br />
need to survive on that battlefield. I'm<br />
LUKE GOSLING<br />
also really proud of those young<br />
Ukrainians, and it was good to tell<br />
them that in person. Our soldiers are<br />
the best, they're doing a cracking job,<br />
and they should be rewarded for that<br />
effort.<br />
For further information and/or<br />
feedback relating to this article, please<br />
contact the Office of Luke Gosling<br />
OAM MP.<br />
Electorate Office: 3/266 Trower Road,<br />
Casuarina, NT, 0810.<br />
Postal address: PO Box 43300,<br />
Casuarina, NT, 0810.<br />
Telephone: (08) 8928 0180<br />
Luke Gosling OAM MP is the federal<br />
Member for Solomon and a former<br />
Army officer.<br />
COMMITTEE<br />
NOTICEBOARD<br />
MERRY CHRISTMAS<br />
Wishing the members and families of our ADF community a joyous<br />
Christmas filled with warmth, gratitude, and moments of connection.<br />
Merry Christmas from the <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> Committee!<br />
SPREADING THE CHEER!<br />
With the festive season upon us and many of us<br />
posting in and out of location, we have decided<br />
to run our feature competitions on our Facebook<br />
Page for this edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
To enter, make sure you have liked our Facebook<br />
Page and follow the instructions on the<br />
competition posts. We will be featuring lots of<br />
giveaways just in time for Christmas, so you could<br />
add a special prize under the tree this year!<br />
VOLUNTEERING WITH US<br />
We always welcome new volunteers at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
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Family Day Out<br />
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Couples Date Night<br />
Erica Pascoe<br />
WIN with Sponsors - <strong>Top</strong> End<br />
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ADF BLOOD<br />
CHALLENGE<br />
DID YOU<br />
KNOW?<br />
One whole<br />
blood<br />
donation can<br />
save three<br />
lives?<br />
<strong>The</strong> Defence Blood Challenge began in 2009 and is now the<br />
longest running blood drive in Australia, encouraging<br />
#YourADF and the broader community to donate to the<br />
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood.<br />
Demand for blood products continues to outstrip supply. Each<br />
week 33,000 donations are needed to continue supporting<br />
Australians in need with 18,000 of those needing to be plasma.<br />
Blood supplies are essential to ADF personnel on operations,<br />
exercises and to members of the Defence community in their<br />
daily lives.<br />
Make a difference in someone's life today. Visit www.<br />
donateblood.com.au/donate to see when and where you can<br />
donate in your local area.<br />
HOW DID THE TOP ADF TEAMS PERFORM?<br />
Check out the challenge results online:<br />
https://my.donateblood.com.au/app/challenge/<br />
Correct as at 3 Nov <strong>2023</strong>. ADF Blood Challenge end date 8 Dec <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
28 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 29
35 TH ANNIVERSARY<br />
TRAINING SHIP DARWIN<br />
Currently TS Darwin is the only Training Ship in the<br />
Australian Navy Cadets in the Northern Territory.<br />
Australian Navy Cadets, Australian Army cadets and Australian Air<br />
Force Cadets make up the Australian Defence Force Cadets. TS<br />
Darwin is a premier Youth Development organisation in Australia<br />
working under the Australian Navy umbrella. Utilising their parent<br />
services traditions and uniforms, the ADFC are helping to guide and<br />
teach the future leaders of Australia.<br />
<strong>The</strong> organisation was founded in the early 1900s and officially<br />
recognised under the Naval Defence Act in 1910. Prior to 1973, the<br />
organisation was known as the Australian Sea Cadet Corps, and<br />
was jointly administered by the Royal Australian Navy and the Navy<br />
League of Australia. After 1973, the Navy assumed full responsibility<br />
for the Corps, which was renamed the Naval Reserve Cadets. <strong>The</strong><br />
Australian Government review, 'Cadets <strong>The</strong> Future' recommended<br />
a final name change to Australian Navy Cadets in 2000.<br />
TS Darwin recently celebrated its 35th Anniversary with a family<br />
and friends fun day hosted at the unit. This allowed the cadets to<br />
show off skills they have learnt. <strong>The</strong> cadets demonstrated tying<br />
knots and ran an obstacle course; they thoroughly enjoyed trying to<br />
beat the CO (Commanding Officer). Another cadet's favourite<br />
event was the Damage Control Pipe exercise (also known by the<br />
cadets as DC Pipes), where cadets must work together to try<br />
and stem the flow of water coming out of the pipe using blocks<br />
of wood and zip ties. <strong>The</strong> exercise simulates a pipe bursting on a<br />
ship. <strong>The</strong> cadets need to work together and keep a cool head while<br />
trying to communicate under pressure.<br />
<strong>The</strong> day was concluded with cake and trivia and a delicious lunch<br />
provided by the TS Darwin Unit Support Committee. Thank you to<br />
everyone who attended and celebrated with us.<br />
Written by MIDN Tina Baxter<br />
Australian Navy Cadets<br />
PRINCES TRUST AUSTRALIA<br />
Celebrating veteran and family businesses<br />
An initiative of the Prince’s Trust Australia<br />
Enterprise programme, the Beyond Service<br />
Awards are designed to celebrate the<br />
entrepreneurial achievements of Australia’s<br />
veteran and family business community.<br />
Since 2015, Prince's Trust Australia has<br />
been inspiring veterans and their families<br />
with the confidence, skills and networks<br />
they need to explore, state and grow small<br />
businesses across the country. <strong>The</strong> Trust<br />
inspired by its Founder and President,<br />
His Majesty King Charles III, and is driven<br />
by his vision for a more sustainable<br />
future.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Awards are an opportunity to<br />
recognise the depth and breadth of skills<br />
and experience veterans and Defence<br />
Force families bring to Australia’s small<br />
business landscape.<br />
Michelle Endacott, Chief Executive of<br />
Prince’s Trust Australia said:<br />
“We are impressed by the calibre of our<br />
finalists and the diversity of their<br />
business interests and industries. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
awards are a rare opportunity to<br />
recognise the outstanding contribution<br />
of veteran and family businesses to our<br />
economy and our communities.”<br />
In <strong>2023</strong>, Prince’s Trust Australia recognised<br />
eleven finalists across five states and<br />
territories.<br />
AND THE WINNERS ARE...<br />
FINALISTS:<br />
• Anna Shead, Flower and Sugar Cakes<br />
• Mark Korsten, AUKUS Jobs<br />
• Nadia Teong, Veterans Psychology<br />
<strong>The</strong> New Mission Award, recognising the application of skills, experience<br />
and/or networks developed in service to the Australian Defence Force to<br />
a civilian business(es). This award is sponsored by Saab Australia.<br />
FINALISTS:<br />
• Jamie Channon, Cold-Rite Refrigeration and Air Conditioning<br />
• Karyn Hinder, Working Spirit<br />
• Nadia Teong, Veterans Psychology<br />
<strong>The</strong> Community Impact Award, recognising veteran and ADF family<br />
members making a positive impact in the community and/or contributing<br />
to a more sustainable society through their business(es).<br />
FINALISTS:<br />
• Abe Bland, Tribes Adventure Group<br />
• CJ Manjarres-Walhberg, Sea Heritage Foundation<br />
• Ian Rawson, Australian Warfighters Coffee<br />
<strong>The</strong> Defence Family Business Award, recognising ADF partners and<br />
spouses in business(es).<br />
FINALISTS:<br />
• Hayley Boswell, Defence Kidz<br />
• Kathlene Jade Sheen, Sorted by Kath<br />
• Kelly Willmott, Green Fox Studio<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>2023</strong> Beyond Service Awards are proudly sponsored by Gold Sponsor<br />
Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and Silver Sponsor Saab Australia.<br />
www.iangandersonphotography.com<br />
ianganderson53@telstra.com<br />
0418 806 379<br />
IAN G. ANDERSON<br />
PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
LANDSCAPES // NATURE // HISTORY // MILITARY<br />
PRINTS AVAILABLE<br />
iangandersonphotography.com<br />
ian.anderson53@telstra.com // 0418 806 379<br />
Photos: Supplied by Ian G Anderson for the Australian Navy Cadets in the NT.<br />
Congratulations to Ian Rawson, the<br />
Founder of Australian Warfighter Coffee<br />
who has won our peak award for<br />
defence members and their families!<br />
Ian has been named the Prince’s Trust<br />
Australia Commonwealth Bank of<br />
Australia Business of the Year, and<br />
Community Impact sector winner.<br />
He joins sector winners:<br />
Nadia Teong, Clinical Psychologist and<br />
Founder of Veterans Psychology, winner<br />
of <strong>The</strong> Power of One Award<br />
Karyn Hinder, Founder of Working Spirit,<br />
winner of <strong>The</strong> New Mission Award<br />
Hayley Boswell, Founder of Defence<br />
Kidz, winner of <strong>The</strong> Defence Family<br />
Business Award.<br />
Visit: www.princes-trust.org.au<br />
30 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 31
CYCLING UP A FRUITY STORM<br />
For Veterans’ Health Week, the Northern Territory veteran<br />
community joined the Mates4Mates team and got their legs pumping<br />
and hearts going as they blended up a delicious afternoon tea riding<br />
the smoothie bikes!<br />
This activity was the perfect ‘blend’ of exercise and social connection, with<br />
veterans and family members getting involved and having a laugh together.<br />
Veterans’ Health Week, held annually in October, centred around Mental<br />
Wellness Matters, promoting good health and wellbeing in the everyday<br />
life of veterans and families, and shone a spotlight on the importance of<br />
mental health.<br />
Other Veterans’ Health Week activities run by the Mates4Mates Northern<br />
Territory team include a hobby show case, ice bath session, bike ride, and<br />
more.<br />
CLOWNING AROUND ON THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS<br />
Northern Territory Mini Mates were treated to an exciting and interactive show, with Hyper<br />
the Clown coming along for some fun during the school holidays.<br />
Hyper entertained the children of the local Defence community, making sure everyone was involved and<br />
having fun, giving parents the chance to relax and connect with other veterans.<br />
Mates4Mates offer a variety of family friendly activities like this one so that veterans, partners and children<br />
can connect with like-minded families in a safe and fun environment.<br />
MATES4MATES ARE RECRUITING TO THEIR<br />
CLINICAL TEAM IN DARWIN<br />
Mates4Mates is looking to add to its clinical team within the purpose-built<br />
Veteran & Family Wellbeing Centre in Stuart Park.<br />
If you’re a passionate and supportive health professional with qualifications and<br />
experience as a psychologist, counsellor, social worker, personal trainer or<br />
exercise physiologist/physiotherapist, then you’re encouraged to apply and join a<br />
national organisation that positively changes lives of those impacted by service.<br />
Please contact hr@mates4mates.org to find out more.<br />
Images: Courtesy of Mates4Mates<br />
UPCOMING EVENTS<br />
Mates4Mates runs regular social connection activities across Darwin and surrounding<br />
regions, which are free for veterans and their families.<br />
A great opportunity to connect with others in the community who understand you, regular activities<br />
include weekly walks, breakfasts, aqua fitness sessions, craft workshops, school holiday activities, and<br />
more.<br />
Visit the Mates4Mates website to check out what’s on offer: www.mates4mates.org/events<br />
THE MATES4MATES TEAM<br />
ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU!<br />
If you’re a current or ex-serving Defence Force member, partner, or family member who is<br />
looking for a friendly, safe space to find mateship and maybe learn a new skill, reach out to the<br />
Mates4Mates Northern Territory team.<br />
To find out more, call 1300 4 MATES (62 837) or visit the team at the Mates4Mates Veteran & Family<br />
Wellbeing Centre located at 39 Stuart Highway, Stuart Park (enter via Ramirez Road).<br />
SAILING PROJECT<br />
COMES TO DARWIN<br />
PART TWO<br />
DARWIN LAUNCH - First Darwin Saltwater<br />
Veterans Sailing Project event launched on<br />
30th September!<br />
Defence Veterans joined in with anticipation<br />
for the first Darwin Saltwater Veterans Sailing<br />
Project which launched on September 30th.<br />
Family members were able to join in for a<br />
fun experience on the water as schools came<br />
to a close for their long-awaited holidays!<br />
<strong>The</strong> crew learnt about safety, rigging the<br />
keel boat, managing a yacht through a<br />
marina lock (yes lock due to Darwin’s<br />
massive tides), sailing in a moderate gusty<br />
wind and derigging whilst underway - by all<br />
reports, a great time was had by all who<br />
attended.<br />
Paul Kirby: Member for Port Darwin,<br />
(former) NT Minister for Veteran Affairs<br />
joined in, discovering what the projects is<br />
all about whilst, ABC Darwin gathered<br />
footage and veteran communities shared<br />
the word on their social media platforms in<br />
support of the SVSP and veteran<br />
community.<br />
We sincerely thank Mo, our effervescent and<br />
knowledgeable instructor, and the Darwin<br />
Sailing Club and Young Veterans Australia for<br />
their shared excitement and support in<br />
getting the SVSP out on the water.<br />
With our second sail experience on 6th<br />
October, the crew sailed through 8-15 knot<br />
winds, honed their tacking, gybes, berthing<br />
skills and mastered points of sail; it was<br />
another epic day on the water!<br />
Whilst sailing in the <strong>Top</strong> End has wrapped<br />
up for cyclone season, we’re excited for<br />
what <strong>2024</strong> will bring - watch this space!<br />
Thank you to all who participated and<br />
supported our very short, and extremely fun,<br />
debut!<br />
Written by Amanda West<br />
Veteran<br />
Saltwater Veterans<br />
@saltwaterveterans<br />
www.saltwaterveterans.org<br />
0418 106 223<br />
hello@saltwaterveterans.org<br />
Photos: Courtesy of www.facebook.com/CoastalWarriorsKidsYoga<br />
32 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 33
NETWORK TINDAL<br />
THE PILBARA REGIMENT<br />
FAMILY GROUP<br />
Network Tindal is your Defence Community Group at<br />
RAAF Base Tindal. We operate a range of regular activities<br />
and events throughout the year.<br />
Since April this year, Network Tindal has been running a revamped<br />
‘Tindal Teens’ group, targeting young people aged 12-16 years,<br />
meeting on a fortnightly basis. Teens gather at either the Network<br />
Tindal Community House for activities or at the Tindal Gym for sports.<br />
Supported by volunteers Emily, Frank and Kaelene, the group has<br />
participated in a variety of activities, such as:<br />
• Escape Room<br />
• Dodgeball<br />
• Movie & Pizza Night<br />
• Speedball<br />
• Games night<br />
• Gym Superstars<br />
• Ping Pong Wimbledon<br />
• Volleyball<br />
• Just Dance<br />
• Model Rocket - Build &<br />
Launch Workshop<br />
• Basketball session with<br />
the Defence Basketball<br />
team<br />
• Pool party<br />
It has been a fantastic opportunity for our young people to socialise<br />
and challenge themselves in a relaxed and fun environment. We can’t<br />
wait to see what is in store for <strong>2024</strong>!<br />
For more information about what we have to offer or to register your<br />
teen, contact networktindal@gmail.com.<br />
C O N T A C T<br />
Sam Schultz,<br />
Network Tindal Coordinator<br />
@NetworkTindalBuddies on Facebook<br />
WONKA MOVIE EVENT<br />
Saturday 16th <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
Katherine Town Council is hosting a FREE Wonka Movie Event!<br />
This will be held at Katherine Cinema 3 from 11am<br />
Free popcorn and goodies for all movie goers.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re will also be 3 x Golden Tickets to be found!<br />
For more information, please contact: E: sinead.tewake@ktc.nt.gov.au<br />
We have hosted lots of activities over the<br />
last few months with something for<br />
everyone!<br />
We organised a cultural 4wd tour with<br />
Ngurrangga Tours, which was an<br />
exceptional day out where we learnt more<br />
about local culture and connection with<br />
the land. We discovered some new<br />
swimming holes and learnt how to find<br />
water when stuck in the bush. Our tour<br />
guide, Clinton Walker, was very passionate<br />
about helping us to understand his country<br />
and the ways of his people.<br />
During September, a group of 12 adults<br />
had their turn to dabble in some painting<br />
during a Paint n Sip afternoon with Three<br />
Birds Creative studio. Local artist, Jessica<br />
Walford, encouraged us to go with the<br />
flow and helped us to create some very<br />
“Pilbara-esque” watercolour<br />
masterpieces.<br />
Also in September, PRFG teamed together<br />
with the Regiment social committee to<br />
provide a Fishing Competition out at Point<br />
Samson. <strong>The</strong> weather was fantastic,<br />
although it is definitely starting to warm up<br />
in the Pilbara! Some fish were caught,<br />
some got away, and biscuit rides on the jet<br />
ski were enjoyed by those who were<br />
brave!<br />
Coffee catch-ups may be shuffled around<br />
over the summer months, as members<br />
post out, go on holidays, and those<br />
remaining try to stay out of the heat.<br />
Please stay tuned to our members-only<br />
Facebook page to keep up-to-date with<br />
coffee catch-ups and other summer<br />
events.<br />
Please also check out our website, https://<br />
sites.google.com/view/pilbara-regimentfamily-group/home,<br />
for more information<br />
about the Pilbara.<br />
Wishing you and your family a Merry<br />
Christmas and we look forward to<br />
welcoming you at our community activities<br />
in <strong>2024</strong>!<br />
C O N T A C T<br />
Kylie Thompson,<br />
Community Support Coordinator<br />
sites.google.com/view/pilbara-regimentfamily-group/home<br />
34 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 35
NT DEFENCE BALL<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>2023</strong> Defence Ball was open to all ranks, and<br />
it was our first since arriving in the <strong>Top</strong> End.<br />
Held at Larrakeyah Naval Base and serenaded by<br />
the military band whilst overlooking the harbour,<br />
the setting was simply serene and as the sun set,<br />
laughter filled the night air and stars filled the<br />
skies.<br />
DARWIN<br />
City of Darwin administers the Citizen of the<br />
Year Awards on behalf of the Australia Day<br />
Council - Northern Territory and will present<br />
the awards at the Australia Day ceremony in<br />
<strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the Citizen of the<br />
Year Awards were a fantastic way to recognise<br />
and celebrate community members who had<br />
made a noteworthy contribution to the Darwin<br />
community.<br />
PALMERSTON<br />
On the 26th of <strong>January</strong> each year, City of<br />
Palmerston commemorates Australia Day<br />
Ceremony with the official raising of the<br />
National Flags of Australia, welcoming the<br />
country’s newest residents in a special<br />
Citizenship Ceremony and presenting the city's<br />
coveted Australia Day Awards.<br />
City of Palmerston recognises the contributions<br />
members of our community make towards a<br />
brighter and better future, keeping our vision 'A<br />
Place for People', alive.<br />
We acknowledge and recognise the selfless<br />
efforts of individuals and groups within our<br />
community, who embrace this vision through<br />
the Palmerston Australia Day Awards.<br />
KATHERINE<br />
<strong>The</strong> morning includes the Citizen of the Year Awards<br />
which has three categories (Citizen, Young Citizen<br />
and Community Event of the Year) the purpose of<br />
these awards are to acknowledge and celebrate the<br />
outstanding people we have in our community, who<br />
make a real difference.<br />
This special occasion also marks a significant milestone<br />
in the lives of those who we welcome as our newest<br />
Australian Citizens.<br />
Following that, there will be an inspiring key note<br />
message from an Australia Day Ambassador, a shared<br />
Multicultural fest, cake cutting and the event will<br />
conclude with a jet fly over by RAAF Base Tindal<br />
(12:30pm).<br />
This event is a free, and all are welcome.<br />
Venue: Godinymayin Yijard River Arts & Cultural<br />
Centre<br />
Extracted from:<br />
https://engage.darwin.nt.gov.au/<strong>2024</strong>-citizen-of-the-year-awards<br />
https://palmerston.nt.gov.au/palmerstonaustraliadayawards<br />
https://www.katherine.nt.gov.au/events/citizen-of-the-year-awards-and-citizenship-ceremony/604<br />
<strong>The</strong> ladies were stunning in their gorgeous<br />
ballgowns whilst the men shone in their suave<br />
tux, vests and suits. Whilst many couples<br />
danced to the sounds of the band, and later the<br />
DJ, others took their chances on the bucking<br />
bull - I watched on in trepidation far too timid<br />
to attempt it myself!<br />
Well-fed and watered, with the night ending all<br />
too soon, we headed home in anticipation for<br />
next years’ adventurous Defence Ball.<br />
SAINT<br />
BARBARA’S<br />
DAY<br />
St. Barbara, (died c. 200 CE; feast day <strong>December</strong> 4),<br />
was a legendary virgin martyr of the early church.<br />
Respected as one of the 14 Auxiliary Saints (Holy<br />
Helpers), she is invoked in thunderstorms and is the<br />
patron saint of artillerymen and miners. We<br />
acknowledge the 4th of <strong>December</strong> as Saint<br />
Barbara’s Day.<br />
According to legend, dating to the 7th century, she<br />
was the daughter of a pagan who kept her guarded in<br />
a tower to protect her from harm. When she<br />
professed Christianity and refused marriage, the father<br />
became enraged and took her to the provincial<br />
prefect, who ordered her to be tortured and<br />
beheaded. <strong>The</strong> father himself performed the<br />
execution and, upon his return home, was struck by<br />
lightning and reduced to ashes.<br />
Written by Amanda Letcher<br />
Committee Member<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
References:<br />
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Barbara<br />
04 DECEMBER<br />
Written by Charlene Carter<br />
Community Coordinator<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
WE REMEMBER<br />
PEARL<br />
HARBOR<br />
Sunday, <strong>December</strong> 7, 1941, was supposed to be a day<br />
of rest for the military soldiers at Hawaii’s Pearl<br />
Harbor naval base on the island of Oahu, but the<br />
Japanese naval forces had been planning an attack for<br />
months. At 7:55am, 350 Japanese fighter planes<br />
launched a series of bombings in two waves without<br />
warning and attacked the United States Pacific fleet<br />
(naval vessels) moored in the harbor, which<br />
prevented a U.S. counter-attack. Thousands of lives<br />
were lost that day.<br />
Following both attacks, 19 U.S. naval vessels were sunk<br />
or damaged; 188 aircraft were destroyed. In all, 2,280<br />
servicemen and women were killed, 1,109 were<br />
wounded. Sixty-eight civilians also lost their lives. <strong>The</strong><br />
attack lasted just under two hours.<br />
<strong>The</strong> day after the attack, the United States declared<br />
war on Japan, officially entering World War II. In the<br />
nearly four years that followed, the U.S. Navy sank all<br />
of the Japanese aircraft carriers, battleships, and cruisers<br />
that participated in the Pearl Harbor attack.<br />
Extracted from:<br />
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/pearl-harbor<br />
36 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 37
ADF Chaplains in the NT<br />
Navy On-call: 0409 662 823<br />
Kelvin Harris HMAS Coonawarra<br />
Anglican<br />
0401 075 488<br />
Esava Koro HMAS Coonawarra<br />
Seventh Day Adventist<br />
0423 451 989<br />
Shaun Foster Patrol Boat Chaplain<br />
Australian Christian Churches<br />
0400 514 375<br />
Army On-call: 0427 713 963<br />
Glen Elsegood 8/12 Regiment<br />
Anglican<br />
0429 345 167<br />
Garth Mayger Regional Support<br />
Catholic<br />
0409 778 462<br />
Kelly Horne 1CER<br />
Australian Christian Churches<br />
0418 428 337<br />
CHAPLAIN’S CHAT<br />
This year I have finally got into a habit that has<br />
been the topic of many a New Year’s<br />
Resolution over the past 15 years. I have been<br />
reading, not just easy and fun books and not<br />
books for study and work. I’ve been reading<br />
the kind of books that have long been a part of<br />
a classical education. I’ve read about society<br />
from Plato, girls education from<br />
Wollstonecraft and guilt from Dosteoevsky.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se are the kind of books that have stood<br />
the test of time and teach us something about<br />
where we’ve been and who we are.<br />
<strong>The</strong> challenge in undertaking such a new habit is that<br />
while it is worthy, it is not urgent and so the years drift<br />
away with little action being taken. Posting to Darwin,<br />
with less social and family connections has brought me<br />
the opportunity to dig into these books.<br />
<strong>The</strong> habits or “disciplines” in some Christian traditions<br />
help us to grow, to connect or simply to live longer.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se good habits include prayer, medication, social<br />
gatherings, learning, exercise, charity and service.<br />
Chris Lindsay 1CSSB<br />
Presbyterian<br />
0419 869 187<br />
Brendan Quirk HQ1 BDE<br />
Catholic<br />
0407 283 050<br />
Shane Rogerson 5RAR<br />
Anglican<br />
0408 684 783<br />
Anthony Doyle 1AVN<br />
Catholic<br />
0429 891 274<br />
Airforce Darwin On-call:<br />
0477 308 064<br />
Airforce Tindal On-call:<br />
0427 890 054<br />
Christopher Buckley-Wilkshire RAAF Tindal<br />
Churches of Christ<br />
0437 702 645<br />
Peter Taylor RAAF Tindal<br />
Anglican<br />
0423 686 109<br />
Karen Haynes RAAF Darwin<br />
Baptist<br />
0408 765 660<br />
All three services provide a 24/7 on-call number for<br />
emergencies. Each Unit/Ship/Base has its own chaplain<br />
who can assist. If you chaplain is not available, please<br />
contact the on-call number for your Service.<br />
Denominational or faith-specific ministry can be<br />
arranged as required.<br />
As the Summer season approaches, we come to a time<br />
where we celebrate occasions such as Christmas,<br />
Graduation and Farewells. Doing these seasons well, with<br />
an eye to others comfort, real connection and<br />
moderation of food and drink are all good disciplines that<br />
in isolation do not make a good life, but together, make<br />
us people who are better and contribute beautifully to<br />
community.<br />
On a personal note, I am planning to attend many<br />
Christmas parties to connect, then head home on time to<br />
get some rest and read Dickens’ Christmas Carol for the<br />
first time.<br />
Wishing you and your family a safe and blessed festive<br />
season,<br />
Chaplain Karen Haynes.<br />
Written by CHAP Karen Haynes<br />
Baptist<br />
RAAF Base Darwin<br />
38 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 39
GROUND YOURSELF IN THE<br />
PRESENT MOMENT<br />
Sometimes, negative thoughts can<br />
rewrite history and paint an<br />
unfavorable picture of what really<br />
happened. So, if you find yourself<br />
caught in a cycle of self-doubt or guilt<br />
over a past situation, it might be helpful<br />
to determine if your perspective aligns<br />
with “reality.”<br />
Despite your current thoughts, your<br />
feelings are valid. Consider grounding<br />
practices to help bring your attention<br />
to the present moment and observe<br />
your thoughts without judgment. It<br />
may be helpful to remember that<br />
situations often turn out better than<br />
you think they will.<br />
TRY TO BE ACTIONABLE<br />
If you ruminate about a specific problem, sometimes inaction<br />
leads to more rumination. To rectify this, consider counteracting<br />
negative thought loops by putting those thoughts into action.<br />
You can begin by making a list that lays out the problem while<br />
also brainstorming potential solutions.<br />
BRING IN REINFORCEMENTS<br />
You don’t have to go through this alone, consider reaching out<br />
to a trusted friend or family member for support. Alternatively, if<br />
someone you care about experiences rumination, it’s helpful to<br />
understand that they may have difficulty controlling these<br />
thoughts.<br />
Extracted from Psych Central<br />
https://psychcentral.com/health/tips-to-help-stopruminating#support-from-loved-ones<br />
RUMINATING<br />
GET OUT OF YOUR MIND<br />
AND INTO YOUR BODY<br />
You may also consider engaging in<br />
activities to break your mindset:<br />
Here comes posting<br />
season and a stressful<br />
time for the defence<br />
community as we<br />
prepare to relocate<br />
or say goodbye to<br />
friends we have made.<br />
.. This can be a<br />
turbulent period of<br />
change, but when thoughts become<br />
repetitive or focused only on the negative<br />
aspects, it could mean you’re experiencing<br />
rumination.<br />
Ruminating over the past, present, or future<br />
can be challenging, but there are strategies to<br />
manage it. Immersing yourself in deep<br />
thought or pondering over the past, present,<br />
or future situations can be a healthy way to<br />
sort through problems. It can also help you<br />
gain the self-awareness needed to move on<br />
from positive and negative life experiences.<br />
Experts do not consider rumination a mental<br />
health condition, but it can accompany<br />
conditions like anxiety, obsessive-compulsive<br />
disorder (OCD), and depression. Still, if it<br />
happens frequently or is particularly intense, it<br />
can cause distress and harm your mental<br />
wellbeing. Many people find themselves stuck<br />
in rumination mode occasionally. You<br />
probably want these thoughts to stop,<br />
whether you ruminate frequently or<br />
sporadically. If so, these tips might be a great<br />
place to start.<br />
IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF YOUR<br />
RUMINATION<br />
<strong>The</strong> actual event or situation that triggers rumination<br />
might seem like the root cause, but there are often other<br />
underlying reasons, such as; an undiagnosed anxiety<br />
disorder, depression, perfectionism or other mental health<br />
conditions. Discovering underlying causes may help<br />
determine if talking with a mental health professional<br />
might be beneficial.<br />
ALLOW YOURSELF TO FEEL THE EMOTIONS<br />
Ruminating about the past can sometimes occur because<br />
of unaddressed emotions. <strong>The</strong>se may include sadness<br />
over a loss or guilt about your role in a past event or<br />
situation. Often, rumination takes up space in your mind,<br />
preventing negative or uncomfortable emotions from<br />
entering, which may be a strategy that you adopt to avoid<br />
dealing with them.<br />
Allowing yourself to feel, process, and move through<br />
these uncomfortable emotions may help lessen the<br />
intensity or frequency of intrusive and unwelcomed<br />
thoughts.<br />
DETERMINE WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL<br />
Reviewing events repeatedly or entertaining a negative<br />
thought about a situation could be your mind’s way of<br />
exerting some control over the scenario. Consider what<br />
aspects of a scenario you can control, such as preinterview<br />
prepping or ensuring you are well rested before<br />
a big event. Determining what you can do to be proactive<br />
in a situation and taking action may help reduce<br />
rumination.<br />
• going on a brisk walk<br />
• getting involved in a hobby<br />
• cleaning and organizing the house<br />
• enjoying activities in nature, like<br />
gardening<br />
40 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 41
DEFENCE KIDZ<br />
Ask<br />
Hayley<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Weary Dunlop Foundation supports our veterans<br />
and their welfare, funds medical research and continues<br />
the legacy of Sir Edward<br />
“Weary” Dunlop.”<br />
Hi <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>s!<br />
Welcome to ‘Ask Hayley’ where you can ask<br />
me questions, and I’ll give you my honest<br />
opinion about all things relating to defence<br />
life!<br />
I can’t promise I can fix it all, but I can give you my<br />
opinions and help guide you! Here’s a little about me.<br />
I’m the founder of ‘Defence Kidz’, as well as a human<br />
rights lawyer, the mum of two little girls and lover of all<br />
dumplings. My partner served in the Navy for 24 years<br />
and recently discharged, so we have seen a lot! My dad<br />
also served, as did many uncles and I’m proud to say<br />
military service definitely runs deep in my blood.<br />
A particular passion of mine, apart from trying every<br />
new dumpling place available (recommendations are<br />
accepted and encouraged!), is to connect with defence<br />
and veteran organisations to see how they are<br />
supporting our military families - everyone needs a<br />
little TLC sometimes!<br />
It’s really important that we know what supports and<br />
resources are available to us, so when these resources pop<br />
up, you can be sure I’ll be sharing these with you! Please<br />
email us if you have any questions about defence or veteran<br />
life, services available, tips for kids, programs for spouses or<br />
ideas for employment - consider me your little helper.<br />
In the meantime, it’s posting season… so let’s<br />
kick off with “how do we know we are choosing<br />
the right school?”<br />
This is a tricky one, every school is different, and has<br />
different priorities and areas that they focus on. When we<br />
posted interstate, we didn’t know a single person with<br />
children our age, which was incredibly difficult as I couldn’t<br />
rely on word-of-mouth recommendations (my preferred<br />
method to help with decision making)! So instead, I<br />
Googled! Googled! Googled! Until I could Google no more.<br />
Once I had read as much as I could handle, I then turned to<br />
my defence social media spouse groups who are filled with<br />
information about local schools, great places to eat and must<br />
see and do places! For me, these people were my life saver<br />
and gave the best advice. That’s the best thing about our<br />
defence community, you don’t need to ever feel<br />
alone, there’s always a defence member or spouse<br />
ready to jump in, help out and give great<br />
recommendations!<br />
And lastly, you can always arrange a trial day with<br />
various schools to see which one best is suited to<br />
your family!<br />
Wishing you and your family a fantastic Christmas and<br />
holiday period!<br />
Nearly 30,000 Australians<br />
became prisoners of war<br />
during World War 2. Of<br />
these, 8,172 were<br />
prisoners of the Germans<br />
or Italians, and 22,376<br />
were prisoners of the<br />
Japanese held in various<br />
camps in Asia and the<br />
Pacific area. One who<br />
did survive was “Weary”<br />
Dunlop, a doctor in the<br />
Photos: Sourced from the Weary Dunlop<br />
Foundation, Britannica, and the Australian<br />
War Memorial.<br />
Australian Army, who provided medical treatment and<br />
inspirational leadership for the men under his care.<br />
As a Prisoner of War, Sir Edward Dunlop was well aware<br />
of the impact of war service on Veterans and their families.<br />
He strongly believed that this warranted greater attention<br />
and had a great resolve to act.<br />
In 1985, his tenacity led to the creation of the Sir Edward<br />
Dunlop Medical Research Foundation, to encourage<br />
emerging medical researchers to study health conditions of<br />
Veterans, serving personnel and their families. <strong>The</strong> health<br />
and wellbeing of those who have served and sacrificed<br />
remains vitally important today, and the Weary Dunlop<br />
Foundation continues to pursue the vision inherited<br />
from this truly great Australian.<br />
Each year, the Foundation awards grants to research<br />
projects across Victoria. Through the combination of<br />
clinical and applied research, in depth knowledge of many<br />
biological processes has been gained which has the<br />
potential to improve the quality and/or length of life of<br />
veterans, their dependants, and others affected by the<br />
trauma of conflict.<br />
Before his passing in July 1993,<br />
Dunlop received numerous<br />
honours and awards in recognition of<br />
his civic, sporting, educational, military and<br />
medical achievements.<br />
• Order of the British Empire (1947),<br />
• Knight Batchelor (1969),<br />
• Companion of the Order of Australia (1987),<br />
• Knight Grand Cross, Order of St John of Jerusalem (1992),<br />
• Knight Grand Cross (1st Class) of the Most Noble Order of<br />
the Royal Crown of Thailand (1993).<br />
He was an Honorary Fellow of the Imperial College of London, an<br />
Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh,<br />
Honorary Life Member of the RSL and Life Governor of the Royal<br />
Women's Hospital and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.<br />
In 1977 he was named Australian of the Year and in 1988 named<br />
as one of 200 Great Australians.<br />
Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop lived an incredibly inspiring life, the<br />
Weary Dunlop Foundation is a wonderful legacy that will live on<br />
to support Defence families and the greater community.<br />
Hayley<br />
Written by Amanda Letcher<br />
Written by Hayley Boswell<br />
Founder<br />
Defence Kidz<br />
Community Contributor<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
Ask Hayley for advice by emailing your questions<br />
to:<br />
admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
@defencekidz<br />
Photo: Weary Dunlop Partners<br />
https://defencekidz.com.au/<br />
References:<br />
http://www.wearydunlopfoundation.com.au/education/estudies/ & http://<br />
www.wearydunlopfoundation.com.au/wp-content/themes/weary/pdf/<br />
estudies-could-you-survive.pdf<br />
42 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 43
FATIGUE & DISTRACTION<br />
WHILE DRIVING<br />
Warning signs of fatigue<br />
<strong>The</strong> signs include any of the following:<br />
• yawning<br />
• sore or heavy eyes<br />
• dim or fuzzy vision<br />
<strong>The</strong> posting season can be<br />
an incredibly busy and<br />
challenging period with end<br />
of year events, removals and<br />
farewells, so it’s no surprise<br />
if you are already feeling<br />
tired and drained before<br />
embarking on a road trip.<br />
If you are driving long<br />
distances in the Northern<br />
Territory, you should plan<br />
to take a break every two<br />
hours so that you do not<br />
become affected by fatigue.<br />
Fatigue reduces your ability<br />
to drive safely as well as your<br />
judgement, reaction times<br />
and ability to control your<br />
vehicle.<br />
• stiffness and cramps<br />
• delayed reaction times<br />
• drifting lanes.<br />
Tips to avoid driving tired<br />
You should do all of the following:<br />
• plan to stop at<br />
road rest areas<br />
in the NT<br />
• stop for a 15<br />
minute break<br />
every two<br />
hours of driving<br />
• take a walk to<br />
stretch your<br />
legs and drink<br />
some water<br />
• consider<br />
changing<br />
drivers if<br />
possible.<br />
DRIVER DISTRACTIONS<br />
Driver or rider distraction is a serious road<br />
safety issue and can trigger a fatal chain of<br />
events. A distracted driver has trouble judging<br />
speed and distance and has slow reflexes.<br />
A split second is all it takes to lose control -<br />
using a mobile phone, changing the music or<br />
talking to passengers when driving could all<br />
cause the driver to look away from the road.<br />
Taking your eyes off the road for two seconds<br />
when driving at 50km/h, means you travel for<br />
27 metres blind. <strong>The</strong> average person’s<br />
reaction time to an event is 1.8 seconds. This<br />
means that up to four seconds can pass<br />
before the distracted driver can react.<br />
Although we don't know how many crashes in<br />
the NT involve distracted drivers, the research<br />
says a distracted driver has four times the risk<br />
of causing an accident.<br />
Tips for staying safe:<br />
• stay focused and expect the unexpected<br />
• turn off your mobile phone, even if it is<br />
hands free<br />
• if you need to use a phone make sure it is<br />
secured in a commercially designed<br />
mount fixed to the vehicle<br />
• do not use or look at a visual display unit<br />
unless it is secured in a mounting to the<br />
vehicle, eg navigation or dispatch system<br />
• make adjustments to your radio or CD player<br />
before you start driving<br />
• check on a map or set your navigation system<br />
to where you are going before you leave<br />
• ensure that your vehicle's windscreens, mirrors<br />
and windows are clean and unobstructed<br />
• ensure pets are correctly restrained by using a<br />
secured carry box or a pet seatbelt<br />
• take a break and pull over rather than eating,<br />
drinking, smoking or grooming when you're<br />
driving<br />
• plan activities to keep your children happy and<br />
quiet.<br />
ROAD REPORT NT<br />
<strong>The</strong> Road Report Website provides<br />
up-to-date road condition<br />
information on all Government<br />
controlled roads.<br />
Road conditions across the Territory<br />
can change rapidly depending on the<br />
time of year you travel. We have<br />
made it easy to stay updated with the<br />
latest information online, via free call<br />
or through Facebook Road condition<br />
information is automatically and<br />
simultaneously updated during normal<br />
working hours, Monday - Friday.<br />
Weekend reporting is provided<br />
during the wet season or other<br />
significant weather events as needed.<br />
If you are travelling through<br />
Aboriginal Land, permits may be<br />
required. Please contact the relevant<br />
land council for further information.<br />
MOBILE APP FOR ROAD<br />
REPORT NT<br />
Did you know that you can download<br />
a mobile App to check road<br />
obstructions from your phone or<br />
tablet?<br />
Download it from your App store<br />
today (Apple or Android).<br />
Benefits of using the App:<br />
• View information while out of<br />
service/range<br />
• Specifically designed for smaller<br />
screen sizes<br />
MAJOR ROAD REPORTS<br />
You can also view road maps for<br />
various regions and major road<br />
reports across the NT, including<br />
Stuart Highway, Barkly Highway,<br />
Victoria Highway and other major<br />
roads (for example; Cox Peninsula<br />
Road, Lasseter Highway, Litchfield<br />
Park Road etc).<br />
Report a road fault<br />
You should report<br />
any faults or hazards<br />
that present a risk to<br />
the safety of road<br />
users.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se may include:<br />
• fallen trees<br />
• flooding or water over road<br />
• malfunctioning irrigation systems<br />
• litter or vandalism<br />
• road damage such as potholes<br />
• broken signs.<br />
For urgent road faults, call 1800 246<br />
199.<br />
Extracted from<br />
https://roadreport.nt.gov.au/home<br />
Extracted from<br />
https://nt.gov.au/driving/safety/fatigue-and-driving<br />
https://roadsafety.nt.gov.au/safety-topics/distractions<br />
44 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 45
POSTING<br />
BINGO<br />
UGH it’s<br />
raining, it’s<br />
pouring …<br />
Oh dear, we<br />
left the<br />
bananas in the<br />
fridge…<br />
<strong>The</strong> baby is<br />
due – any<br />
minute!<br />
No damages<br />
on delivery<br />
OOPS!<br />
You locked<br />
your keys<br />
inside on<br />
vacate<br />
Vehicle<br />
delivered,<br />
on-time<br />
WHAT!!!<br />
Actually,<br />
the packers<br />
were<br />
AMAZING -<br />
first time ever!<br />
Case Manager<br />
is MIA, again!<br />
Packer shows<br />
up late and/or<br />
alone,<br />
or not at all<br />
Check list<br />
completed…<br />
are you sure?!<br />
TOLL<br />
reimbursement<br />
– done, no<br />
questions!<br />
WINNING!<br />
Friends help<br />
with pre<br />
vacation clean<br />
Name:<br />
HOW TO PLAY<br />
Move from:<br />
Move to:<br />
Year:<br />
WIN - WIN<br />
Your new<br />
house is<br />
perfect!<br />
Party time...<br />
allowances!!!<br />
Christmas in<br />
temporary<br />
accommodation<br />
Lock-down…<br />
DHA/TOLL<br />
Rep “pops in”<br />
… because<br />
that’s a good<br />
idea!<br />
Movers<br />
packed<br />
something<br />
they should<br />
not have<br />
Pets are<br />
booked for<br />
travel<br />
That missing<br />
“something”<br />
e.g., the beer<br />
fridge / the<br />
fishing rod!<br />
For fun, cross off each item as you experience it during your posting adventure.<br />
If you are having a hard time, reach out… we have an incredibly supportive community – you are<br />
NOT alone. If you need professional support, reach out to ESOs such as<br />
Open Arms, Mates4Mates and DMFS<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Inc<br />
RELOCATION HACKS<br />
So, it’s that time of the year<br />
again when some of us are<br />
packing our homes and<br />
relocating! Although it can be a<br />
stressful time, we have pulled<br />
together a number of ‘relocation<br />
hacks’ to make life a lot easier<br />
during your transition!<br />
DECLUTTER – Start early. Try selling<br />
some unwanted items or donate to<br />
an Op Shop in the lead up to your<br />
removal. Not only will you have less<br />
things to unpack, but it is also good<br />
for your wellbeing to have less clutter<br />
in your home. If you can’t part with<br />
things prior to your removal, dedicate<br />
a couple of boxes and clearly label<br />
with ‘clutter’ to give you time to sort<br />
out in your new location.<br />
SAFE PLACE – it’s a great idea to<br />
book an extra night of<br />
accommodation at your own cost the<br />
night before pre-pack to allow<br />
enough time to wash bedlinen and<br />
towels prior to uplift. This also<br />
provides an opportunity to remove all<br />
items that will travel with you to<br />
avoid packing your necessities by<br />
accident.<br />
PREVENT MOULD –<br />
when moving<br />
appliances, it always<br />
helps to store a dry<br />
toilet roll in each<br />
compartment to help<br />
reduce mould during<br />
storage and transportation.<br />
HOUSE TOUR – prior to<br />
commencing any pre-packing or<br />
removal, it’s a great idea to conduct a<br />
house tour with the removal team to<br />
explain anything that they need to<br />
know. This is a perfect opportunity to<br />
identify anything you do not want<br />
packed (ie; your lunch or handbag – it<br />
has happened!) or to point out any<br />
items that require extra special care<br />
(ie; canvas paintings, antiques etc).<br />
COLOUR CODING – Have you<br />
thought about colouring coding<br />
your rooms and boxes to make<br />
unpacking a breeze? Simply select a<br />
different coloured tape for each<br />
room and label boxes as the<br />
removalists pack. You can also put<br />
tape on furniture to help the unpack<br />
team in your new location. To<br />
simplify the process even further,<br />
count the number of boxes for each<br />
colour code to ensure that each box<br />
is accounted for when being<br />
unloaded from the truck. This is much<br />
easier than searching for labels and<br />
gives your unpack team a clear idea of<br />
which boxes need to go into which<br />
room. Colour code the doorway to<br />
each room in your gaining location for<br />
even greater efficiency.<br />
PERSONAL<br />
DOCUMENTS –<br />
Organise a separate<br />
carry case to store<br />
important personal<br />
documents (passports,<br />
birth certificates, insurance policies),<br />
movement plan letter, boarding<br />
passes etc., which can be taken with<br />
you when you travel. Remember to<br />
also keep receipts for expensive items<br />
and take photos of furniture and<br />
collectables in case of loss or damage.<br />
TEMPORARY TABLES – when you<br />
opt for the unpack option with your<br />
removal company, they are only<br />
contracted to unpack all items onto a<br />
flat surface. If you are like the majority<br />
of defence families, it often takes a<br />
few days or weeks to fully unpack, so<br />
consider the option of using a couple<br />
of foldable tables for unpacking. This<br />
also helps to keep your dining table<br />
and bench space uncluttered and<br />
clear for everyday use. Ask the<br />
removalists to pack the folding tables<br />
into the truck last to ensure they<br />
come off the truck first in your new<br />
location.<br />
“FIRST NIGHT” BOX – it is such a<br />
simple idea but packing yourself a<br />
“first night box” will help to make<br />
your first night in your new home a<br />
lot more comfortable. Save yourself<br />
the time, energy and stress of<br />
searching through numerous boxes to<br />
find what you need for your first<br />
night, such as; fresh bed linen, towels,<br />
kids activities, tea towels, mugs, kettle,<br />
tea/coffee/sugar, some bowls and<br />
cutlery, dishwashing liquid, laundry<br />
powder, cleaning products and of<br />
course, toilet paper. Label this box<br />
with bright tape and place it on the<br />
truck last to ensure that it comes off<br />
first and you can find it easily when<br />
you need it.<br />
WRAP IT – Wrap cutlery and<br />
utensils in Cling Wrap or place<br />
utensils in a large plastic container to<br />
keep them together... Most<br />
removalists will empty kitchen<br />
drawers and lose items into boxes, so<br />
it makes sense to place lose items<br />
into a basket, container or plastic bag<br />
to sort out at a later stage, saving you<br />
the hassle of sorting through random<br />
items lying at the bottom of a box.<br />
SURVIVAL KIT – when you’re<br />
traveling to your new location, it’s a<br />
smart idea to pack a small ‘survival kit’<br />
filled with random things that could<br />
be extremely useful in an emergency<br />
or inconvenient situation. You could<br />
include things like; headlamp,<br />
batteries, paper clips, twine, scissors,<br />
notebook, sewing kit, permanent<br />
marker, tape, tissues, mirror, lighter,<br />
earplugs, superglue etc. It may sound<br />
ridiculous, but you never know when<br />
you might need to channel your inner<br />
MacGyver if you ever become<br />
stranded!<br />
Wherever you are going and whatever adventures await you, we wish you safe and happy travels over the silly season.<br />
Please feel free to send your ideas and feedback about relocations to: admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
46 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 47
Tips<br />
FOR FINDING<br />
A NEW GP<br />
When we are relocating every few years, it is essential to have<br />
proper medical care in each location. Most people want a doctor<br />
who is thorough and proactive; someone to make sure you don’t<br />
miss those important annual checks, and to have a doctor that<br />
listens to your needs and informs you of options... How do you<br />
find one though?<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> team has pulled together some tips for you:<br />
1. RACGP Fellow accredited - For a practice to receive accreditation,<br />
they must provide care to a high standard, this takes approx 12-18mths<br />
for a practice to prepare so it is not easily given by an independent<br />
accreditation agency.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se are some of the standards that are considered:<br />
• Person centred care<br />
• Continuity of care<br />
• Comprehensiveness<br />
• Whole person care<br />
• Diagnostic and therapeutic skill<br />
• Leadership, advocacy and equity<br />
• Coordination and clinical<br />
teamwork<br />
• Continuing quality improvement<br />
• Professional, clinical and ethical<br />
standards<br />
• Continuing evolution of the<br />
discipline<br />
7. Do they offer more services - Such as Allied Health, surgical support, skin cancer checks and integrative<br />
or holistic care?<br />
8. Does the practice stipulate that it helps chronic illness? This is a great indicator whether they assist in<br />
complex care or are a practice to go to for only minor ailments.<br />
9. Do they provide Trauma Informed Care? This is important for<br />
those that have experienced medical trauma or may have other<br />
triggers relating to consent and body choices.<br />
10. Have you checked for reviews? <strong>The</strong>re are multiple ways to do<br />
a search on your future G.P., such as RateMDs, White Coat or<br />
check the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency<br />
(AHPRA) for registration and to see if they have restrictions.<br />
Written by<br />
Amanda Letcher<br />
Community Contributor<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
Resources:<br />
https://www.racgp.org.au/running-a-practice/<br />
practice-standards/standards-5th-edition/<br />
accreditation & https://www.racgp.org.au/<br />
education/students/a-career-in-general-practice/<br />
what-is-general-practice & https://<br />
adffamilyhealth.com/ & https://www.ratemds.<br />
com/ & https://www.whitecoat.com.au/ & https:/<br />
/www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registers-of-<br />
Practitioners.aspx<br />
2. "Person/Patient Centred" practice - Seek this wording on websites (if they are<br />
accredited with the RACGP, this is part of their General Practice standards)<br />
3. Seek full paying practices - Unfortunately, bulk-billed practices tend to lose money for<br />
long appointments, research Defence Health insurance for medical cover to suit your<br />
needs<br />
4. Does the practice manager/staff sit on any advisory boards? If they do, you will find<br />
the entire practice is run to a level of standards required for representation on a<br />
national/state scale.<br />
5. Call and ask to speak to the practice manager - Ask for their opinion with who you<br />
should be matched with, give as complete as possible medical history. A great tip is to<br />
email your medical summary with final reports/letters/radiology etc to ensure they have<br />
been given as accurate a picture as possible to your personal complexities. <strong>The</strong>y can<br />
then advise whether they have a suitable doctor, whether they need to have subspeciality,<br />
or to discuss frequency of appointments required.<br />
6. Does the practice support extra training of Doctors - This will become noticeable<br />
as the Drs will have a wide variety of subspecialties and each practitioner has extensive<br />
training with minimal "new" GPs (training new staff is not the focus but rather the quality<br />
of care to patients is).<br />
48 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 49
Explore, Create, and Learn: Term 4 Courses at<br />
Darwin Adult Short Courses<br />
Are you ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity,<br />
culture, and lifelong learning? Look no further than Darwin<br />
Adult Short Courses (DASC). We are delighted to<br />
present our exciting lineup of classes and courses for<br />
Term 1, <strong>2024</strong>, packed with a variety of options to suit<br />
every interest and passion.<br />
LINGUISTIC ADVENTURES AWAIT!<br />
Expand your horizons and dive into the wonders of<br />
language learning with our diverse range of language<br />
courses. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of<br />
Japanese, Korean, Italian, Indonesian, Greek, German,<br />
Mandarin, French, and Spanish. Our expert instructors<br />
will guide you on a linguistic journey, helping you<br />
develop new skills and broaden your cultural<br />
understanding, with multiple levels available in each<br />
language!<br />
UNLOCK YOUR INNER ARTIST<br />
Join our pottery courses and get your hands dirty as you<br />
shape and mould clay into unique creations. Discover the<br />
foundations of drawing and learn how to capture the<br />
world around you with skilled precision. Dive into the<br />
beautiful nuances of watercolour painting or explore the<br />
fascinating realm of printmaking. We also offer courses in<br />
3D printing, photography, Adobe InDesign and<br />
Photoshop, laser cutting and mosaics.<br />
SEW AND CREATE<br />
Embark on a sewing adventure with our Introduction to<br />
Sewing classes. Whether you are a complete beginner or<br />
looking to brush up on your skills, we have two levels to<br />
cater to your needs. Learn to create beautiful homewares,<br />
garments and accessories while gaining confidence in your<br />
sewing abilities.<br />
CULINARY DELIGHTS ABOUND<br />
Indulge your taste buds and explore different cultures<br />
with our various cultural cooking classes, from<br />
traditional cuisines to exotic delicacies, our cooking<br />
classes are a feast for the senses. Expand your culinary<br />
repertoire and impress your friends and family with your<br />
newfound skills.<br />
TECHNOLOGY MARVELS<br />
For those seeking to enhance their technological knowhow,<br />
we offer courses in ICT Essentials and Microsoft<br />
Office. ICT Essentials services those of us who need to<br />
learn the basics and necessities of the computer itself, plus<br />
its general applications. Microsoft Office for Success is<br />
ideal for those who understand the basics of their<br />
computer, but want a good overview to the MS Office<br />
suite for work or life.<br />
At DASC, we welcome and support everyone in our<br />
community to be lifelong learners - our courses are<br />
designed to be inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable for<br />
people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are<br />
pursuing a hobby, seeking personal growth, or simply<br />
looking for a new adventure, we have a class that will<br />
ignite your curiosity and passion.<br />
Stay tuned for more exciting courses to be announced<br />
soon. <strong>The</strong> world is your oyster at Darwin Adult Short<br />
Courses, where learning knows no limits.<br />
Note: Course availability may vary, so be sure to check<br />
our website for the most up-to-date information.<br />
Written by Sarah Triffitt-Russell<br />
Coordinator<br />
Darwin Short Courses<br />
MIND AND BODY<br />
CONNECTION<br />
Take care of your physical<br />
and mental well-being with<br />
our Pilates classes. We<br />
offer Pilates sessions for<br />
both kids and adults,<br />
providing a welcoming and<br />
supportive environment for<br />
all age groups. Strengthen<br />
your core, improve<br />
flexibility, and enhance<br />
your overall fitness level<br />
while enjoying the positive<br />
benefits of Pilates.<br />
50 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 51
GROM<br />
REAR ENDER<br />
I noticed recently that some interesting national<br />
data has been shared about accidents for<br />
motorcyclists and other road users, and it is no<br />
surprise that as speed increases, accident numbers<br />
also increase. According to statistics, 33% of all<br />
road fatalities for any vehicle type occurs in 100<br />
km/h speed zones, and only 1% of deaths occur<br />
under 30 km/h... This leaves me with a bittersweet<br />
question; is riding at 30 km/h the secret to staying<br />
alive on our roads..?<br />
I can understand when motorcycle riders feel<br />
pressure from statistics, especially when it doesn’t<br />
show all of the picture, or the data is skewed. For<br />
example; between 2010 to 2020, the number of<br />
registered motorcycles and scooters increased<br />
significantly by 33% – from 661,000 in 2010 to<br />
881,000 in 2020. However, when you look at the<br />
fatality statistics for riders, there has been a<br />
significant decline. In 2010, the fatality rate was 3.4<br />
per 10,000 registrations, compared with 2.2 by the<br />
end of 2020 - that’s a 35% decrease in the fatality<br />
rate over ten years. <strong>The</strong>re’s also a significant decline<br />
from the fatality rate 40 years ago in 1980, which<br />
was 14 deaths per 10,000 riders. So, this raises<br />
another question; are we less vulnerable?<br />
I am going to share a private story to demonstrates<br />
that you can ride defensively, have a well-maintained<br />
motorcycle, obey road rules and still enjoy the ride.<br />
You can do everything ‘right’ but still be involved in<br />
an accident. Here is the unedited version of events<br />
from a friend;<br />
“I had done numerous long trips on my current bike<br />
(2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE) in all types of<br />
weather and road conditions without incident. <strong>The</strong><br />
route that I took to work on the day of the accident<br />
was one that I had travelled many times (I<br />
commuted by bike daily to work in the City). I just<br />
stopped in the left lane to give way to a turning truck<br />
(turning left from the right lane in a 70 km/h zone)<br />
when a 4WD travelling behind, swerved from the<br />
right lane to avoid the truck and pushed a car into<br />
me from behind. I did not pre-empt the incident as<br />
there was no skidding, horn, or other warning. <strong>The</strong><br />
last time I checked in my rear-view mirror, the car<br />
behind me had just stopped. I just remember being<br />
hit hard from behind and being pushed into the path<br />
of the turning truck. I tried to gain control of my bike<br />
(still upright) but realised I had no control and<br />
nowhere to go, so I dropped the bike and jumped<br />
for it to safety.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Hospital Emergency Department was<br />
surprised to see a motorcycle accident patient<br />
wearing all the protective gear. What does that<br />
tell you about motorcycle injuries sustained from<br />
accidents by not wearing PPE! Subsequently, I had<br />
spinal surgery on my neck and have been on<br />
extensive rehabilitation (currently working 10 -12<br />
hr week). I reflect on the Defensive Riding<br />
Course and skills learnt, and I considered myself a<br />
safe rider and never had an accident in 40+ years<br />
of motorbike riding. <strong>The</strong> points I would like to<br />
raise from my experience is that not all<br />
motorcycle accidents occur at high speed, or due<br />
to rider’s fault, or are foreseeable. However, the<br />
outcome is pain, surgery, rehabilitation, career<br />
impact, along with other lost opportunities in life.<br />
All my <strong>2023</strong> trips planned on the bike and<br />
retirement dream destroyed in one second.<br />
Although I am annoyed that this accident ended<br />
my riding career, I am fortunate though to still be<br />
around to write this email”.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is an old saying within the training<br />
environment; “we do not rise to the level of our<br />
expectations, we fall to the level of our training”.<br />
In this rider’s case, it is not relevant as the<br />
accident was not caused by his misjudgement, and<br />
it was definitely a case where he exceeded his<br />
skills. This type of accident occurs in about 10<br />
percent of motorcycle accidents caused by poor<br />
judgement from other road users. In this case, it<br />
is very difficult to predict and prevent this type of<br />
accident as the rider would have observed that<br />
the risks were all visible and manageable in their<br />
direct, forward vision. <strong>The</strong> rider would have felt<br />
confident that the vehicle behind was safely at a<br />
standstill. However, the 4WD driver misjudged<br />
the intersection with excessive speed, poor<br />
decision making and poor observation skills, which<br />
resulted in a life changing moment for this rider<br />
who will never ride again. I feel for my friend, but<br />
thankfully he is alive and recovering.<br />
It only takes a split-second decision or lapse in<br />
concentration to cause an accident - stay alert.<br />
Ride SAFE,<br />
Written by GROM<br />
Community Contributor<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
FI4430<br />
Serious about Sleep at Forty Winks<br />
At Forty Winks, we want to ensure that our<br />
Defence Personnel are getting the rejuvenating<br />
sleep they need to serve our country.<br />
That’s why we are offering our valued<br />
Defence personnel 20% OFF any purchase.<br />
Darwin<br />
Shop 2, Jape Homemaker, Village West<br />
356 Bagot Road NT. Ph: 08 8923 1118<br />
Terms and conditions apply. See instore for details.<br />
52 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 53
BENEFITS OF FAMILY<br />
DAY CARE WITH KENTISH<br />
WHAT IS FAMILY DAY CARE?<br />
• Home based Education and Care for children aged 6 weeks -<br />
12 years of age.<br />
Max 7 children: 4 under 4yo + 3 >4yo<br />
For Diploma holder: 5 under 4yo + 2 >4yo<br />
If you have your own children who are under the age of 13 years<br />
olds. <strong>The</strong>y are also included as part of your ratio.<br />
• Suitable for families seeking care and education in a small group setting/ work shift<br />
hours.<br />
BENEFITS OF BECOMING A FAMILY DAY CARE PROVIDER<br />
Choose to work full-time, part-time, before/after school, evening hours,<br />
overnight stays and weekends.<br />
You can be self-employed and therefore, set your own hourly rate.<br />
Your estimated possible income could be around $108,000 per annum. For<br />
example, caring for 4 full time children, 40 hours a week x $13 per hour =<br />
$108,000 per annum.<br />
An educator operating longer hours, weekends and evenings will gross a much<br />
higher income.<br />
BENEFITS OF BECOMING A FAMILY DAY<br />
CARE PROVIDER WITH KENTISH LIFELONG<br />
LEARNING<br />
Kentish provide 24/7 support to our Educators, so you can<br />
call us at night.<br />
Educators get support from an experienced Team Co-<br />
Ordinator.<br />
Educators automatically become Kentish Members, with<br />
access to events, team building sessions, professional<br />
development opportunities and training programs.<br />
We offer various excursions, celebrations and cultural<br />
events for educators and children throughout the year, as<br />
well as a weekly play session.<br />
You will also have the opportunity to attend paid<br />
conferences around Australia.<br />
You will have access to resources for educators, such as<br />
children’s books and reporting templates.<br />
Written by Sam Pauline<br />
Director<br />
Kentish Life Long Learning<br />
54 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 55
MIDGE &<br />
MOZZIE<br />
CALENDAR<br />
Very high biting<br />
midge peaks<br />
High biting<br />
midge peaks<br />
Moderate biting<br />
midge peaks<br />
Low biting<br />
midge peaks<br />
Full Moon<br />
New Moon<br />
<strong>December</strong><br />
MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN<br />
1<br />
4 5 6 7 8<br />
2<br />
9<br />
3<br />
10<br />
11 12 13 14 15 16 17<br />
18 19 20 21 22 23 24<br />
25 26 27 28 29<br />
30 31<br />
Thank you to the Department of Health for supplying<br />
the calendars of the Salt Marsh Mosquitos and the<br />
Biting Midges. For more information on either of these<br />
pests, visit the Department of Health’s website.<br />
High mosquito<br />
peaks<br />
Potential for<br />
high mosquito<br />
peaks caused<br />
by rain<br />
Moderate<br />
mosquito peaks<br />
REFERENCES<br />
https://hdl.handle.net/10137/12354<br />
https://hdl.handle.net/10137/12355<br />
<strong>December</strong><br />
MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>2024</strong> calendars are yet to be released, so we recommend visiting the Department of<br />
Health’s website for the latest information.<br />
1<br />
4 5 6 7 8<br />
2<br />
9<br />
3<br />
10<br />
11 12 13 14 15 16 17<br />
18 19 20 21 22 23 24<br />
25 26 27 28 29<br />
30 31<br />
INJURED WILDLIFE<br />
ON ROADTRIPS<br />
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU FIND INJURED<br />
OR ORPHANED WILDLIFE IN THE NORTHERN<br />
TERRITORY?<br />
It is important to bring any injured or orphaned animal<br />
to your nearest vet or wildlife rescue group as soon as<br />
possible. Please remember Wildlife Care groups are<br />
mostly staffed by volunteers who also work full time<br />
jobs and may not be able to answer the phone on<br />
the first call. Remember, your safety always comes<br />
first!<br />
• Ensure the animal needs rescuing.<br />
• If working near roadways, be aware of traffic<br />
hazards.<br />
• Minimise handling.<br />
• Keep pets and children away from wildlife.<br />
• Minimise Noise - turn the radio off and keep voices<br />
down.<br />
• Do not try to feed injured wildlife. Providing<br />
water is OK, but do not force an animal to drink.<br />
• Try and move any roadkill at least 10m off the<br />
road.<br />
• Check dead kangaroo and possum pouches for<br />
joeys.<br />
• Bring the animal to the nearest Veterinarian or<br />
Wildlife care group.<br />
• Wildlife can carry a variety of diseases. Where<br />
possible wear gloves and always wash your hands<br />
after handling wildlife.<br />
WHO IS MY LOCAL WILDLIFE RESCUE<br />
ORGANISATION?<br />
Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary - 0473 992 581<br />
Katherine Wildcare Inc - 0412 955 336<br />
Alice Springs Wildcare Inc - 0419 221 128<br />
Or visit www.dwsnt.com.au or www.wildcareasp.org.au<br />
for more information.<br />
Extracted from NT<br />
Government<br />
https://nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/<br />
0004/377536/rescuing-wildlifeinformation-sheet.pdf<br />
Alternatively local vets are affiliated with care groups<br />
and you can drop wildlife off during business hours<br />
at the following locations:<br />
DARWIN AREA:<br />
• All Pets Vet Hospital - Rapid Creek - (08) 8948<br />
0056<br />
• Ark Animal Hospital - Yarrawonga - (08) 8932<br />
9738<br />
• Darwin My Vet Service - Wulagi - (08) 8927<br />
3657<br />
• Darwin Wildcare Inc - 0408 885 341<br />
• Howard Spring Veterinary Clinic - Howard<br />
Springs - (08) 8983 1458<br />
• Humpty Doo Vets – Humpty Doo – (08) 8988<br />
3340<br />
• Litchfield Veterinary Hospital - Coolalinga - (08)<br />
8983 2838<br />
• Parap Veterinary Hospital - Parap - (08) 8981<br />
9767<br />
• Paul Arnold Bush Photos - Darwin - (08) 8941<br />
6062<br />
• Territory Wildlife Park - (08) 8988 7200<br />
• University Ave. Veterinary Hospital - Durack -<br />
(08) 8931 0455<br />
KATHERINE AREA:<br />
• Katherine Vet Care Centre - (08) 8972 2752<br />
• Katherine Veterinary Clinic - (08) 8972 2893<br />
• Tennant Creek Area: Barkly Veterinary Practice -<br />
0447 471 399<br />
ALICE SPRINGS AREA:<br />
• Alice Springs Reptile Centre - (08) 8952 8900 -<br />
reptiles only<br />
• Alice Springs Veterinary Centre - (08) 8952<br />
4353<br />
• Alice Springs Veterinary Hospital - (08) 8952<br />
9899<br />
• Desert Oaks Veterinary Clinic - (08) 8953 4936<br />
56 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 57
PREPARING YOUR<br />
PET FOR TRAVEL<br />
If you’re relocating or travelling with your pet, it’s<br />
important to have a plan and do your research.<br />
FIND A REPUTABLE PROVIDER - there are a number<br />
of pet transportation companies within Australia, so it’s a<br />
good idea to look around at your options and seek<br />
recommendations from other defence families who have<br />
relocated with pets. You will save yourself a lot of stress<br />
and time by choosing the right service provider for your<br />
pet.<br />
PLAN EARLY - It’s a good idea to plan early for pet<br />
travel to ensure that you confirm your booking and don’t<br />
run out of time to organise at short notice before your<br />
relocation.<br />
WORMY BUSINESS<br />
Intestinal parasites thrive in Darwin’s warm and<br />
humid environment, and when it comes to<br />
ensuring the health and wellbeing of our canine<br />
companions, as well as our families, deworming<br />
plays a crucial role.<br />
HOW DO DOG’S GET INFECTED WITH<br />
INTESTINAL WORMS?<br />
Canine intestinal parasites such us hookworm, roundworm<br />
and whipworm are transmitted via soil. Infected dogs shed<br />
eggs in their faeces, which then require 1-3 weeks to<br />
mature in the soil before coming infective to new hosts.<br />
Contact with, sniffing or ingesting grass or soil, leads to<br />
dogs ingesting the eggs or larvae and becoming infected.<br />
With hookworm, larvae can also infect dogs by<br />
penetrating the skin (most commonly through the paws).<br />
Another route of infection is by eating raw chicken, beef,<br />
lamb and kangaroo meat which can contain microscopic<br />
roundworm larvae encysted in the meat.<br />
Other types of worms are transmitted via an intermediate<br />
host (eg when dogs eat lizards that are infected).<br />
HOW PREVALENT ARE INTESTINAL WORMS?<br />
A recent study took faecal samples from parks across<br />
Australia, and tested the samples for soil-transmitted<br />
intestinal worms. Almost half of the parks across Australia<br />
were contaminated with intestinal worms, with the highest<br />
prevalence in tropical areas. In Darwin parks, 70% of<br />
samples were positive for intestinal worms, with<br />
hookworm making up the majority of positive results.<br />
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF INFECTION?<br />
Common symptoms of intestinal worms in dogs include<br />
vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss or poor growth. Puppies<br />
can have severe, and potentially fatal consequences. It is<br />
important to understand that healthy adult dogs with a<br />
good diet can tolerate a low to moderate worm burden<br />
without showing obvious symptoms. Diagnosis of worm<br />
infestations can also be tricky. Not seeing worms in your<br />
dog’s poo does not mean they are not infected.<br />
STAY CALM - Although it can be distressing to send our<br />
pets independently, it’s important to stay calm and<br />
reassure your pet that they will be safe. Believe it or not,<br />
our pets feed off our energy and can sense if you’re<br />
stressed.<br />
TRAVEL KENNEL - You pet will require a travel crate/<br />
kennel as part of their relocation, so it’s a good idea to<br />
give your pet plenty of time to become familiar with the<br />
crate. You can also include a familiar blanket or toy to<br />
reassure them during transit.<br />
MEDICATION - If your pet requires medication, please<br />
consult with your chosen pet travel experts to ensure<br />
that medication is administered at the right time, if<br />
required.<br />
TRAVEL BY ROAD – ensure that you take regular<br />
breaks, carry potable water, plenty of pet food and<br />
suitable restraints to ensure that your pet stays healthy<br />
and safe throughout the journey. <strong>The</strong> last thing you want<br />
is a seriously unwell or hungry pet halfway between Alice<br />
Springs and Coober Pedy. Remember: never leave your<br />
pet in a hot car or crate without air conditioning or<br />
fresh air.<br />
Written by Deb Herring<br />
Committee Member<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
Puppies are at particularly high risk as worms can also be<br />
transmitted via the placenta or milk.<br />
CAN THEY INFECT PEOPLE?<br />
Yes, canine intestinal worms can be zoonotic (meaning<br />
they can spread from animals to humans).<br />
Infections are more common in children (as<br />
are more likely to ingest soil and to walk<br />
around in bare feet) and symptoms can be<br />
severe eg vision loss and encephalitis.<br />
Fortunately, severe symptoms represent a<br />
small proportion of people infected, with the<br />
majority either having no symptoms, or nonspecific<br />
signs such as headache, abdominal<br />
pain, fever or wheezing. As dog worms that<br />
infect people don’t usually produce eggs,<br />
diagnosis can be challenging.<br />
HOW TO REDUCE RISK<br />
Regularly deworming your pet is a key part of<br />
keeping them healthy, but also safeguards pet<br />
owners, their families, and the public. In<br />
addition to this, promptly removing and<br />
disposing of dog faeces from the yard, and on<br />
walks, is very important.<br />
How often you worm your pet should take<br />
into account several factors, including their<br />
age, environment, diet, and lifestyle. Puppies<br />
should be wormed every 2 weeks, and<br />
monthly worming may be appropriate for<br />
most adult dogs in our Darwin environment.<br />
Speak to your vet for specific<br />
recommendations about which products are<br />
likely to be most effective, and how often you<br />
should worm your pet.<br />
Written by All Pets NT<br />
allpetsvet.com.au<br />
58 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 59
BACK TO SCHOOL<br />
PAYMENT SCHEME<br />
<strong>The</strong> Back to School Payment Scheme, provides financial<br />
assistance to parents and guardians of children:<br />
• enrolled in a Northern Territory (NT) school or<br />
• registered for home-schooling.<br />
<strong>The</strong> payment provides an entitlement for each student to<br />
receive educational items in term one of each school year.<br />
WHAT YOU GET<br />
You are entitled to receive $150 of educational goods and<br />
services for each child enrolled in a government or nongovernment<br />
NT school or preschool.<br />
If your child is in transition to year 12, you will receive the<br />
entitlement in term one each year. <strong>The</strong> entitlement must be<br />
used by the end of term one.<br />
If your child is in preschool, the entitlement is available<br />
throughout the year, but is only valid to the end of the first<br />
term in which they first enrol.<br />
USING THE ENTITLEMENT<br />
Schools decide what goods and services are on offer.<br />
This may include the following items:<br />
school uniform, including hats,<br />
book bags<br />
textbooks<br />
stationery, including<br />
calculators, flash drives, school<br />
diaries<br />
school excursions<br />
student ID cards<br />
student photography<br />
school camps<br />
elective activities.<br />
WHAT IS NOT COVERED<br />
<strong>The</strong> entitlement can't be used for:<br />
voluntary parent<br />
contributions, including<br />
donations to the school<br />
canteen purchases<br />
cash, including refunds for<br />
purchased goods or services<br />
transferred:<br />
between students<br />
CLAIMING THE ENTITLEMENT<br />
to another school<br />
returned to parents after<br />
term one if they authorised<br />
the funds to be used for<br />
activities or items in terms 2<br />
to 4<br />
used to purchase goods and<br />
services from suppliers other<br />
than the school.<br />
For <strong>2023</strong>, if your child is in transition to year 12, you<br />
can claim your entitlement from the school your child<br />
first attends during term one.<br />
Items are available to purchase from the school only.<br />
You don't have to produce any documentation to use<br />
the entitlement.<br />
Talk to your child's school for more information<br />
about the Back to School Payment Scheme.<br />
Extracted from NT Government<br />
https://nt.gov.au/learning/student-financial-helpand-scholarships/back-to-school-payment-scheme<br />
BUILDING THEIR FUTURE AND LIVING THEIR DREAMS<br />
Indigenous students graduating from Haileybury<br />
Rendall School in Darwin are mapping out their future.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y came to Darwin from across the Northern<br />
Territory — from the Tiwi Islands to Timber Creek and<br />
from Kalano to Katherine… a group of Indigenous<br />
students faced with the challenges of settling into an<br />
unfamiliar city in an unfamiliar school where they knew<br />
nobody. Fast forward to today and those students are<br />
part of the biggest group of Indigenous students to<br />
graduate from Haileybury Rendall School in Darwin.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y are leaving HRS with an education, happy<br />
memories, lasting friendships and plans for the future. “I<br />
feel relieved but I also don’t want to leave school<br />
because I don’t want to be an adult yet!” says Tyson<br />
Tambling, 17, from Jabiru. In <strong>2024</strong>, Tyson will study<br />
Architecture at the University of Queensland. He says<br />
studying and boarding at HRS changed his life. “I’ve met<br />
people I would never have met if I hadn’t left Jabiru.<br />
Being at Haileybury has given me the opportunity for a<br />
better education,” he says.<br />
Trinity Dunn, 19, also boarded at Haileybury Rendall<br />
School and is from the Tiwi Islands. Trinity feels ‘excited,<br />
accomplished and relieved’ to complete Year 12 and<br />
says while the amount of schoolwork was sometimes<br />
challenging, the support of staff and other students<br />
helped Trinity through. “I’ve got a lot of memories – the<br />
boarding lifestyle, friendships, the leadership<br />
opportunities and travelling with the Clontarf Academy,”<br />
says Trinity. <strong>The</strong> Clontarf Academy is run by the<br />
Clontarf Foundation at HRS and builds the education,<br />
self-esteem, life skills and employment prospects of<br />
young Aboriginal men. For Trinity, <strong>2024</strong> is all about<br />
spending time with family and he is hoping to secure a<br />
heavy diesel mechanic apprenticeship.<br />
For Quenton Brooking, 17, studying at HRS meant<br />
leaving his family and community in Derby, WA. Being<br />
away from family was the toughest part of studying but<br />
the sacrifice has allowed Quenton to build a stable<br />
future. “Completing Year 12 has given me more<br />
opportunities to look for work,” he says. “Being away<br />
from family was hard but being able to call them helped<br />
with that and I enjoyed sitting with the boys at school<br />
and yarning. I feel good about graduating.” In <strong>2024</strong>,<br />
Quenton will begin a career in youth work.<br />
Andrew McGregor, Principal of HRS, says the entire<br />
school is proud of its first cohort of Year 12 Indigenous<br />
graduates. “Graduating is a huge achievement for each<br />
of these students. <strong>The</strong>y were prepared to leave their<br />
Photos: (top) <strong>2023</strong> Graduates, (left) Trinity and Quenton, (right) Tyson<br />
with HRS Principal Andrew McGregor © Haileybury Rendall School<br />
families and communities to live and study in<br />
a different world. <strong>The</strong>y faced the challenges<br />
of homesickness, the passing away of beloved<br />
family members, having to be increasingly<br />
independent and building new connections<br />
within the school,” says Mr McGregor. “At<br />
HRS we work hard to keep their invaluable<br />
connections with their home communities.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se young adults have also been brilliant<br />
role models and leaders for all our younger<br />
students. <strong>The</strong>y have a lot to offer their own<br />
communities and the wider world, and I can’t<br />
wait to see what they achieve.”<br />
Written by Haileybury Rendall<br />
School<br />
Community Contributor<br />
Haileybury Rendall School<br />
60 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 61
W I N<br />
KIDS, LET’S GET CREATIVE!<br />
Do you love to draw, paint, sculpture, make or model?<br />
Show us your artistic talents by sending a photo of your<br />
artwork to feature in the next edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
One lucky entry will win an art pack valued at $50!<br />
TERMS: Prize Pool valued at up to $50. Open to NT-Based Defence Kids<br />
up to age 17. Closes 10 <strong>January</strong> <strong>2023</strong>. Enter online by visiting www.<br />
thetopendermagazine.org.au/win and submitting an original artwork (e.g.<br />
painting, drawing, sculpture, lego creation, sewing creation etc...). Can’t<br />
attach a photo of your creation to our online form? Email it to us at<br />
creative@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next<br />
edition of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
DONATED BY OUR SPONSOR<br />
WET SEASON<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
With the wet season setting in across the<br />
<strong>Top</strong> End, it’s time to venture indoors for airconditioned<br />
comfort, but this can feel<br />
restrictive for parents with young families.<br />
We have collated some wet season activities<br />
to keep you entertained, comfortable and<br />
prepared for those long monsoonal days!
Kids Corner<br />
Christmas<br />
Special<br />
WORDSEARCH<br />
Find all 10 words!<br />
Word<br />
scramble<br />
Can you unscramble these words<br />
to find the hidden word?<br />
Christmas Joke<br />
What does Mrs. Claus say to Santa<br />
when there are clouds in the sky?<br />
It looks like rain, deer.<br />
colour<br />
me in<br />
How many<br />
baubles are<br />
on the tree?<br />
ANGEL<br />
BAUBLES<br />
CHRISTMAS<br />
HOLLY<br />
MISTLETOE<br />
PRESENTS<br />
GINGERBREAD<br />
REINDEER<br />
SANTA<br />
TURKEY<br />
sehlig<br />
lagne<br />
nosw<br />
teer<br />
corasl<br />
HIDDEN WORD:<br />
Crack the code<br />
Start<br />
Here<br />
escape<br />
Decipher the morse code using our key<br />
below to reveal a question to answer.<br />
the maze<br />
CRACK THE CODE ANSWER:<br />
Spot the difference<br />
10 differences to find!<br />
Christmas Joke<br />
What do snowmen eat for breakfast?<br />
Snowflakes<br />
64 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 65<br />
ANSWERS: Tree Baubles - 16, Word Scramble - sleigh, angel, snow, tree, carols (hidden word - santa) Crack the Code: Rudolph
HANDY DIRECTORY<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
Office.......................................................................................................0419274735<br />
Admin.......................................................admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Advertising....................................advertising@thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Website........................................................www.thetopendermagazine.org.au<br />
Emergencies and Useful Contacts<br />
Emergency Services.............................................................................................000<br />
Police Assistance Line................................................................................131 444<br />
1800 IMSICK.......................................................................................1800 467 425<br />
All Hours Support Line..................................................................1800 626 036<br />
COVID-19 Helpline, NT.............................................................1800 0008 002<br />
Crime Stoppers NT.........................................................................1800 333 000<br />
Defence Family Helpline................................................................1800 624 608<br />
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)........................................................139 342<br />
Defence Switchboard......................................................................1300 333 362<br />
Family Violence and Counselling.................................................1800 737 732<br />
Health Direct.....................................................................................1800 022 222<br />
Hospital, Darwin Private Hospital..............................................08 8920 6011<br />
Hospital, Palmerston Regional Hospital...................................08 7979 9200<br />
Hospital, Royal Darwin Hospital.................................................08 8922 8888<br />
Joint Military Police Station (JMPS)......................................................13 11 67<br />
Lifeline..............................................................................................................131 114<br />
Night Patrol........................................................................................1800 101 645<br />
Poisons Information Line .........................................................................131 126<br />
Power and Water.............................................................................1800 245 090<br />
Secure NT........................................................................www.securent.nt.gov.au<br />
SES Emergency Helpline............................................................................132 500<br />
Snake Catcher....................................................................................1800 453 210<br />
Tropical Cyclone Information NT..............................................1300 659 211<br />
NT Defence Bases and Establishments<br />
Defence Establishment Berrimah<br />
Front Gate................................................................................08 7971 0008<br />
Mess Manager..........................................08 8935 4422 / 0437 795 258<br />
Larrakeyah Barracks<br />
Front Gate................................................................................08 7971 1189<br />
Officers’ Mess..........................................................................08 8935 5570<br />
ORs’ Mess.................................................................................08 8935 5088<br />
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8935 5580<br />
RAAF Base Darwin<br />
Airmen‘s Mess.........................................................................08 8923 5517<br />
Front Gate................................................................................08 7929 4463<br />
Officers Mess...........................................................................08 8923 5482<br />
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8923 5505<br />
RAAF Base Tindal<br />
Airmen‘s Mess.........................................................................08 8973 6240<br />
Front Gate................................................................................08 8973 6228<br />
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8973 6385<br />
Robertson Barracks<br />
Front Gate................................................................................08 8925 6186<br />
Officers’ Mess..........................................................................08 8925 3650<br />
ORs’ Mess.................................................................................08 8925 2514<br />
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8925 6703<br />
Defence Community Houses<br />
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House..........................................0447 586 591<br />
Email...........................................................larrakeyahhouse@hotmail.com<br />
Network Tindal.............................................................................................................<br />
Email.....................................................................networktindal@gmail.com<br />
Robertson Barracks Family Group............................................0490 151 944<br />
Email...................................robertsonbarracksfamilygroup@gmail.com<br />
On-base Services<br />
Canteens<br />
AAFCANS<br />
Robertson Barracks, Cafe Central...................................08 8925 2542<br />
RAAF Darwin, Darwin Canteen........................................08 8981 2508<br />
Robertson Barracks, Shout VC Canteen........................08 8925 6720<br />
Tindal Cafe, Convenience & Fuel Station......................08 8973 6201<br />
Navy Canteens<br />
National Operations Manager...........08 8935 5144 / 0477 477 147<br />
Larrakeyah, Outpipes............................................................08 8935 5144<br />
Military Banks<br />
Australian Military Bank<br />
Larrakeyah Barracks..............................................................08 8981 2245<br />
Robertson Barracks...............................................................08 8995 7800<br />
Defence Bank<br />
Larrakeyah Barracks..............................................................08 8935 5499<br />
RAAF Darwin...........................................................................08 7923 2500<br />
Robertson Barracks...............................................................08 8936 6400<br />
Tindal..........................................................................................08 8965 1600<br />
Hairdressers<br />
Larrakeyah Barracks.........................................................................0427 968 918<br />
RAAF Darwin – Julie-Anne...........................08 8923 5153 / 0402 235 731<br />
Robertson Barracks – Hair Dooz...............................................08 8925 3300<br />
Robertson Barracks – South End Barber Shop.....................08 8925 6723<br />
Uniform and Equipment<br />
Robertson Barracks, Regional Clothing Store<br />
Retail (Purchases).....................................................................08 7971 7130<br />
CIP (Exchanges)........................................................................08 7971 6920<br />
Tailor...........................................................................................08 7971 7043<br />
Tim’s Medal Mounting....................................................................0448 129 531<br />
Bulletproof NT..................................................................................08 8947 0935<br />
Chaplains<br />
Army On-call......................................................................................0427 713 963<br />
Navy On-call......................................................................................0409 662 823<br />
RAAF Darwin On-call.....................................................................0477 308 064<br />
RAAF Tindal On-call.......................................................................0427 890 054<br />
Helplines<br />
Lifeline (24hr)................................................................................................131 114<br />
Kids Helpline (24hr)........................................................................1800 551 800<br />
Parent Helpline – Karitane (24hr)..............................................1300 227 464<br />
Parentline.............................................................................................1300 301 300<br />
Defence Community and Veterans<br />
Support Services<br />
Defence Member and Family Support (formerly DCO)<br />
Website...................................................................www.defence.gov.au/dco<br />
Defence Family Helpline........................................................1800 624 608<br />
Darwin Office.............................................................................08 8935 7900<br />
Tindal/Katherine Office...........................................................08 8973 6353<br />
Defence Families of Australia (DFA)<br />
National Convenor...................................................................1800 100 509<br />
National Delegate NT and Kimberly...........................................0418 807 548<br />
Email...............................................................................................nt@dfa.org.au<br />
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).....................................1800 555 254<br />
Website....................................................................................www.dva.gov.au<br />
Defence Service Home Loans........................................................1800 722 000<br />
Provider Enquiries.....................................................................1800 550 457<br />
Kookaburra Kids...................................................................................1300 566 525<br />
Website..............................................................www.kookaburrakids.org.au<br />
Open Arms (24hrs) ...........................................................................1800 011 046<br />
Website........................................................................www.openarms.gov.au<br />
Legacy Northern Territory...............................................................08 8948 0830<br />
Website........................................................................www.legacy.com.au/nt<br />
Mates4Mates.......................................................................................1300 4 MATES<br />
National ADF Family Health Program.........................................02 6266 3547<br />
Website..................................................................www.adffamilyhealth.com<br />
Red Shield Defence Services – Salvation Army<br />
Gerald & Mairi Mitchell...........................................................0400 642 881<br />
Returned Services League (RSL)<br />
Darwin...............................................................................darwin@rslsa.org.au<br />
Darwin North............................................................................08 8945 0701<br />
Katherine (via Secretary).......................................................0407 130 095<br />
Nhulunbuy...................................................................................0439 850 866<br />
Palmerston...................................................................................0488 001 862<br />
Tennant Creek...........................................................................0499 564 031<br />
Veterans Australia (NT) ........................sec@veteransaustraliant.org.au<br />
Advocacy Assistance.......................smatdp@veteransaustraliant.org.au<br />
Useful Defence Contacts<br />
Comsuper<br />
ADF Cover..................................................................................1300 001 977<br />
ADF Super...................................................................................1300 203 439<br />
DFRDB..........................................................................................1300 001 677<br />
Military Super (MSBS).............................................................1300 006 727<br />
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)...........................................................133 342<br />
Website....................................................................................www.dha.gov.au<br />
Defence Relocations and Housing Manager NT........................08 7929 4547<br />
Toll Transitions.....................................................................................1800 819 167<br />
Defence Tax Management Office (CTMO)...............................1800 806 053<br />
Health<br />
Australian Breastfeeding Association...........................................1800 686 268<br />
Autism NT.............................................................................................08 8948 4424<br />
Bereaved Parent Support NT|SIDS and Kids NT....................08 8948 5311<br />
24-hour Emergency Support Line......................................0448 849 234<br />
Birthline Pregnancy Support...........................................................1300 655 156<br />
Cancer Council NT<br />
Alice Springs...............................................................................08 8953 5920<br />
Darwin.....................................................................................08 8944 1800<br />
Katherine................................................................................08 8971 2022<br />
Website....................................................................www.nt.cancer.org.au<br />
Carers Australia NT......................................................................08 8944 4888<br />
Website......................................................................www.carersnt.asn.au<br />
Childbirth Education Association Darwin.............................08 8948 3043<br />
Website..................................................................www.ceadarwin.asn.au<br />
Community Care Centres<br />
Alice Springs Community Health Centre...................08 8951 6711<br />
Casuarina Community Care Centre.............................08 8922 7301<br />
Katherine Community Health Centre..........................08 8973 8570<br />
Karama Child and Family Health Clinic.......................08 8922 7301<br />
Nhulunbuy Community Health Centre.......................08 8987 0435<br />
Nylander Child Health Clinic..........................................08 8922 7301<br />
Palmerston Community Care Centre..........................08 8999 3344<br />
Tennant Creek Community Health Care...................08 8962 4218<br />
Cradle Support Group................................................................0438 272 353<br />
Website..........................................................................www.cradle.org.au<br />
Darwin Homebirth Group ........................................................08 8922 5522<br />
Website..................................darwinhomebirthgroup.wordpress.com<br />
Defence Special Needs Support Group (DSNSG)<br />
Website...........................................................................www.dsnsg.org.au<br />
National Coordinator........................................................1800 037 674<br />
Darwin Coordinator.............................................darwin@dsnsg.org.au<br />
Katherine/Tindal Coordinator..........................liza.gale@dsnsg.org.au<br />
Down Syndrome Association NT............................................08 8985 6222<br />
Website.................................................www.downsyndroment.com.au<br />
Epilepsy Centre – Epilepsy Association of SA & NT........1300 850 081<br />
Website.........................................................www.epilepsycentre.org.au<br />
Family Planning NT.......................................................................08 8948 0144<br />
Website........................................................................www.fpwnt.com.au<br />
Hearing Australia.......................................................................................134 432<br />
Northern Territory Department of Health (DOH)..........08 8999 2400<br />
Website....................................................................www.health.nt.gov.au<br />
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline........................................1800 882 436<br />
<strong>Top</strong> End Mental Health Service................................................08 8999 4988<br />
Wellness Centre............................................................................08 8946 7176<br />
Website..............................................www.cdu.edu.au/wellness-centre<br />
Sports and Activities<br />
Australian Military Wives Choir...............................................0416 878 261<br />
Australian Air Force Cadets 8 Wing<br />
AAFC 801 Squadron – Winnellie..................................08 8923 5713<br />
AAFC 802 Squadron – Driver........................................0473 816 694<br />
AAFC 803 Squadron – Tindal........................................0427 397 495<br />
AAFC 804 Squadron – Alice Springs...........................08 8953 4484<br />
Australian Army Cadets..............................08 8935 5174 / 08 8935 5488<br />
Email............................................................aachq-nt@armycadets.gov.au<br />
Australian Navy Cadets<br />
Training Ship Darwin...........................TSDarwin@navycadets.gov.au<br />
Training Ship Melville Bay...........TSMelvilleBay@navycadets.gov.au<br />
Girl Guides NT...............................................................................08 8981 3628<br />
Website...................................................................www.girlguides.org.au<br />
Playgroups Association NT (PANT).......................................08 8945 7775<br />
Website.............................................................www.playgroupnt.com.au<br />
RAAF Darwin Fishing Club.........................................................08 8924 2045<br />
66 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> | Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Incorporated DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong>/JANUARY <strong>2024</strong> 67
RAAF Darwin Golf Club................................................................0459 746 306<br />
Swimming<br />
Masters Swimming.................................................................08 8981 5919<br />
Alice AUSSI.............................................thecullenanes@ozemail.com.au<br />
Darwin Stingers..........................................................stingers@iinet.net.au<br />
Palmerston Sharks................................info@palmerstonsharks.com.au<br />
Goldfishbowl Swim School.................................................08 8931 1000<br />
NT Swim School.....................................................................08 8948 1000<br />
Website.................................................www.ntswimschool.com.au<br />
Palmerston & Rural Swimming Club<br />
Head Coach Daniel Gerlach....................................0400 299 622<br />
Swim Dynamics Swim School............................................0421 631 624<br />
Website......................................................www.swimdynamics.com<br />
Scouts NT...........................................................................................08 8948 0994<br />
Website.....................................................................www.nt.scouts.com.au<br />
Surf Life Saving NT..........................................................................08 8985 6588<br />
Website.................................................................www.lifesavingnt.com.au<br />
Local Government and Regional Councils<br />
Alice Springs Town Council..........................................................08 8950 0500<br />
Barkly Regional Council..................................................................08 8962 0000<br />
Belyuen Community Government Council.............................08 8978 5061<br />
Central Desert Regional Council................................................1300 360 605<br />
City of Darwin...................................................................................08 8930 0300<br />
City of Palmerston...........................................................................08 8935 9922<br />
Coomalie Community Government Council..........................08 8976 0058<br />
East Arnhem Regional Council....................................................08 8986 8986<br />
Katherine Town Council................................................................08 8972 5500<br />
Litchfield Council..............................................................................08 8983 0600<br />
MacDonnell Regional Council......................................................08 8958 9600<br />
Nhulunbuy Corporation.................................................................08 8939 2200<br />
Roper Gulf Regional Councils......................................................08 8972 9000<br />
Tiwi Regional Council.....................................................................08 8970 9500<br />
Victoria Daly Regional Council....................................................08 8972 0777<br />
Wagait Shire Council......................................................................08 8978 5185<br />
West Arnhem Regional Council.................................................08 8979 9444<br />
West Daly Regional Council.........................................................08 8901 3920<br />
Government<br />
Bureau of Meteorology..................................................................1800 659 214<br />
Website...............................................................................www.bom.gov.au<br />
Department of Human Services...........................................................132 468<br />
Centrelink<br />
Carers..........................................................................................132 717<br />
Have we missed something?<br />
Families........................................................................................136 150<br />
Complaints and Feedback.........................................1800 132 468<br />
Medicare<br />
General Enquiries....................................................................132 011<br />
myGov Helpdesk...............................................................................132 307<br />
Motor Vehicle Registry NT...........................................................1300 654 628<br />
Website............................................................................www.mvr.nt.gov.au<br />
Road Report ....................................................................................1800 246 199<br />
Website.............................................................www.roadreport.nt.gov.au<br />
Animal Services and Animal Care<br />
Injured Wildlife<br />
Wildcare Alice Springs.........................................................0419 221 128<br />
Wildcare Darwin....................................08 8988 6121 / 0408 885 341<br />
Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary..................................................0473 992 581<br />
Katherine Wildlife Rescue Services.................................0412 955 336<br />
RSPCA (Darwin)....................................................................08 8984 3795<br />
Pounds and Animal Shelters<br />
Alice Springs Animal Shelter..............08 8950 0500 / 08 8953 4430<br />
Darwin........................................................................................08 8947 2099<br />
Katherine...................................................................................08 8972 5500<br />
Palmerston................................................................................08 8935 9977<br />
Snake Catcher....................................................................................1800 453 210<br />
While the information contained in the<br />
Handy Directory is considered by the<br />
employees and committee of the <strong>Top</strong><br />
<strong>Ender</strong> Tri-Services <strong>Magazine</strong> Inc to be true<br />
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