The Top Ender Magazine February March 2024 Edition

The Top
Ender
Tri-Services Magazine Inc
LORRAINE HATTON
FEATURING AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
WITH LORRAINE HATTON OAM AND
MANY MORE IMPRESSIVE STORIES OF
WOMEN IN DEFENCE
EASTER FUN
BRINGING YOU FUN AND GAMES,
PUZZLES, RECIPES, CRAFTS AND
MORE TO KEEP THE FAMILY
ENTERTAINED THIS EASTER
CREATED BY DEFENCE FAMILIES FOR DEFENCE FAMILIES

haileyburyrendall.com.au
THE TOP ENDER TRI-SERVICE MAGAZINE
February/March 2024
COVER IMAGE: Lorraine Hatton OAM ©
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explore worlds beyond our own!
2 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 1

04 LORRAINE HATTON OAM
06 ANNEKE JAMIESON
12 GUNNERS GOODIES
60 SAVE THE DATE - UPCOMING EVENTS
SUPPORT
14 LEGACY - DEBT OF HONOR
16 DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS
18 DEFENCE MEMBER AND FAMILY SUPPORT
24 MATES4MATES
28 ROBERTSON BARRACKS FAMILY GROUP
29 LARRAKEYAH NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE
30 THE PILBARA REGIMENT FAMILY GROUP
31 NETWORK TINDAL
32 PRINCES TRUST AUSTRALIA
36 NEW DIGS FOR LEGACY NT
46 OPEN ARMS PROGRAM
09 AANT: NEWCOMER’S GUIDE
10 LOOKING BACK THROUGH HISTORY
15 LUKE GOSLING MP
19 MANAGING ANXIETY
20 AUSTRALIAN MILITARY WIVES CHOIR
22 OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS
25 LISTEN TO YOUR HEART
26 CDU CAREERS
FEATURES
COMMUNITY
27 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABILITIES
28 BUILD A BUNNY GAME
29 SIMPLE SAUSAGE SALAD
30 EASY EASTER CRAFT
CONTENTS
33 CREATIVE MONEY MAKING
34 MILLION DOLLAR FISH
38 WORLD WETLANDS DAY
39 NATIONAL EMPLOYER SUPPORT AWARDS
40 TRACY VILLAGE CRICKET CLUB
41 DARWIN STREET ART
41 WORK WITH US
42 GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN COLLEGE
43 NT SPORTS VOUCHER
45 CHINESE NEW YEAR
47 GROWING MINDS FDC
48 CULTURAL COMPETENCE
49 LARRAKIA PEOPLE
50 DARWIN FAMILY LIFE
51 COMMITTEE NOTICEBOARD
51 TOP END JOBS BOARD
54 MAMMALS OF THE NT
55 CAT ASSOCIATION NT
56 ALL PETS
59 STARFISH SWIM GROUP
61 ASK HAYLEY FROM DEFENCE KIDZ
62 BUILDING RESILIENCE IN KIDS
64 KIDS PUZZLES
66 HANDY DIRECTORY
COMPETITIONS
WIN WITH OUR SPONSORS - PG 23
WIN FOR EASTER - PG 37
WIN FOR VALENTINES - PG 37
WATERFRONT FAMILY MEMBERSHIP - PG 53
KIDS ART PACK - PG 53
FROM THE COMMITTEE
FEBRUARY MARCH 2024
WELCOME
Welcome to the February/March edition of The Top Ender!
In this issue, we celebrate the strength and achievements of remarkable women with
inspiring interviews to honour International Women's Day. As you flip through another
jam-packed edition, you’ll find egg-citing Easter crafts, quick and easy recipes, entertaining
games and puzzles to keep the family entertained.
Don't miss out on our Easter (hint: count the green bunnies) and Valentine competitions, plus our
usual sponsors provide us with more ways to win!
For those looking to connect with you community in 2024, we welcome you to join us at The Top
Ender! Work with us on our committee or simply join us for a tea or coffee on the next Distribution
Day! We’re now taking submissions for 2024 content (articles, photos etc...) so check out the
website for more information!
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Submission Deadline for April/May edition is:
16th February 2024.
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Next Distribution days: 25th March
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Disclaimer: The Top Ender Magazine may include historically and culturally sensitive images, words, terms or descriptions; such material does
not reflect the magazine’s viewpoint but rather the social attitudes and circumstances of the period or place in which it was created.
Some of the images included within depicts the consequences of warfare, including human suffering or death, which some people may find
disturbing. Members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are advised that this magazine contains names, stories and images of
deceased people.
W2 WThe W.T Top Ender H E | Tri-Services O P E NMagazine D E RIncorporated M A G A Z I N E . O R G . A U
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 3

LORRAINE
HATTON
OAM
We have searched within the veteran community
and found so many amazing leaders who are born to
help and inspire others. We recently connected with
Lorraine Hatton OAM, who has forged an incredible
career in the ADF and continues to drive change for
Indigenous communities and veterans through
various advocacy roles.
WHAT IS YOUR MILITARY BACKGROUND:
I enlisted into the Australian Army on 14 Jan 1986, and
served for 21 years. I deployed in peacetime and operations,
involving peacekeeping, humanitarian, peace-monitoring and
war operations, in various theaters and campaigns.
When I enlisted, Army was changing from WRAAC School,
which was a different way to embed women into service and
it was a bit of a learning curve – we had the same fitness
standards as our male comrades, so there were lots of
challenges at the start.
I was tired after deploying to Afghanistan and serving for 20
years. There was a lot of change over those years, and I was
the first Indigenous Warrant Officer to deploy as a
Communications Manager. I needed a break. My original goal
was to serve 20 years and that drove me to keep going
through the hard times. I was identified by the Australian
War Memorial (AWM), as the first Aboriginal female to be
promoted to Warrant Officer in the Australian Army’s
history. I am extremely proud to have achieved that goal.
I was excited when I left defence, but I struggled a bit after a
couple of years of civilian life. It was hard to leave my ‘family’
behind after 21 years, however there are benefits to being a
civilian and becoming part of the community.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO ENLIST INTO THE ADF?
Before defence, I finished year 10 in 1981, and worked a few
odd jobs all around the place. I was looking for job security
and originally looked at a career in Policing, but back in 1985,
their recruit selection process required year 12 completion,
so I switched my focus to a career in defence. I used to be
embarrassed to tell this story, but it’s an important part of
my decision to enlist: I joined for the stability and financial
security that defence provided. Growing up, I was the
youngest of 10 siblings, so financial security was important to
me, and the Army became an extended family - I felt at
home in defence.
In May 2020, I was appointed as the Indigenous Elder for
Army, so I continue to visit communities to show kids that it
is possible. I was so chuffed to be appointed into this role... I
received a letter from Chief of Army, and I was so nervous
that I couldn’t open the letter, so I had my husband open it
and tell me that I was successful – I really wanted this
leadership role and it means so much to me. Through this
experience, I hope I have inspired other kids who have
grown up within low-income communities as I was able to
make a career of it and really enjoyed the diversity of experiences within
defence.
DO YOU HAVE FAMILY MEMBERS WHO HAVE ALSO SERVED?
My dad served in WW2 alongside one of my uncles and one of my aunties.
A lot of people who served in that generation didn’t speak about it a lot
and it’s only later in life that you hear more about it. That’s also true of a
lot of modern veterans, but there’s been some great improvements with
regards to mental health and it’s now widely supported to be more open
and inclusive.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR CULTURAL BACKGROUND AND YOUR
ROLE AS A QUANDAMOOKA ELDER:
The Quandamooka people live around the Moreton Bay area of South
Eastern QLD. I am from North Stradbroke Island / Moreton Island and I sit
on various advisory boards. Some of my highlights include:
– II Chaired the QLD Aboriginal and Torres Islander
Memorial, which was unveiled in Anzac Square on 27
May 2022 (the first day of Reconciliation Week) in
partnership with Griffith University. On the day, we had
so many Indigenous veterans in attendance. The square
was packed with people, and it was such an emotional
day for lots of veterans. You can’t explain that feeling
in words – there’s no words to describe the meaning
of the memorial.
– I currently sit on the board for UniSQ and the Qld
Veterans Council
– I sit on the Legacy cabinet – we’re in the process of
building a new Legacy House next to a veteran's
hospital, which will provide housing for families of
veterans who are in hospital and looking for support.
– I contribute to the Indigenous Advisory Working
Group at the AWM in Canberra as the Indigenous
Elder of Army.
– I am also focused on youth capability building,
specifically Indigenous students and young soldiers. I
attend AIDP graduations and often bump into some of
these students around Army who are proud to share
their experiences and journey with me.
WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU USE TO MANAGE
WORK/LIFE BALANCE AND STRESS?
Although I am busy working across a number of projects, I
do enjoy the simple life with my family and friends – they
keep me grounded. I’m also focused on supporting
outcomes and people - there’s so much work to do and
sometimes I don’t have the hours or the energy, but I’ve
learned to say ‘no’ to some things if I don’t have the
capacity to fully commit.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU WERE
NOMINATED TO RECEIVE AN OAM?
Extremely honoured - it was overwhelming for me
because my OAM also recognises all of the wonderful
people who have assisted me throughout life, supported
everything I do and shaped who I am... It’s not just about
what I have achieved, but many people who helped to
guide me.
WHAT DOES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
MEAN TO YOU?
My thoughts have changed over the years with the
advancement of opportunities for women and the
movement changes constantly in society. It’s a day to
acknowledge the achievements of women all over the world
and the progress we have made, and what we still can
achieve. All of these stories are inspiring the young girls of
today to be the women of tomorrow - we should pause to
celebrate all of what we have achieved.
WHAT SKILLS/LESSONS DID YOU LEARN IN THE
MILITARY THAT YOU STILL USE REGULARLY?
There’s a lot of lessons after serving for 21 years! I find that I
often put other people before myself and make sound
decisions in the face of adversity, especially the ability to
stand up and say when something isn’t right. I have also
learned open-minded leadership skills with a focus on
listening to people of all ages - we need to listen to
younger generations as they are our future and help guide
them on their journey.
FAVOURITE MUSIC & MOVIE
YOUNG BOY BUDJERAH – it was so inspiring to see him as
the opening act for Ed Sheeran.
THE LAST DAUGHTER – a movie about the stolen
generation
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE TOP
END?
I love the Top End because it is so unique and there’s a lot
to see. When I was posted to Larrakeyah, I loved walking
to the end of barracks by myself and sitting on the rocks
to watch the sunset – it was my favourite thing to do. If I
was missing family or my life back on North Stradbroke
Island, I would go to the coast, immerse myself in country
and think about home.
Interviewed by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
Photos: Supplied by Lorraine Hatton OAM ©
4 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 5

ANNEKE
JAMIESON
THE PROMOTION
She is a woman who’s career came first.
She has dedicated herself to her soldiers
and her service and achieved so much. Yet
now, as a new mother, she has returned
from maternity leave changed in ways she
never imagined: this promotion might be
her greatest challenge yet.
We find it difficult to make peace with the
service women we want to be and the
mothers that we are.
Photo: 2022 Napier Waller Art Prize for the portrait ‘The
Promotion’. © Courtesy of AWM
HOW DOES IT FEEL TO HAVE YOUR PORTRAIT IN
THE AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL’S NATIONAL
COLLECTION?
I spent one week delving into archives at the Australian
War Memorial in January 2023 and it feels incredible to
think that my artwork sits in the same building as the
AWM image collection... what an honour! There are
21,000+ artworks in the AWM, but there are so many
that aren’t actually displayed with rotating exhibitions. Just
to have my painting hung at Parliament House for 6
months is a huge honour, hanging on the same floor as the
Prime Minister portraits... it was a moment of monumental
pride to see the story of military mothers being heard and
circulated.
WHAT DOES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
MEAN TO YOU?
It’s a day where women can come out of the ‘shadows’
and appreciate each other’s achievements. At the time of
our posting to Port Vila, Vanuatu, over 60% of the DFAT
staff at the Australian High Commission were female - I
found this both surprising and inspiring.
During the overseas posting, I have been able to see
similarities in Australia and Vanuatu and the conflict
between being a mother and being a community member,
especially being a good mother with the pressure of
wanting to succeed in Executive career roles without
jeopardising any aspect of life. It’s an international dilemma.
There is still an unspoken expectation that women
should work and contribute, but not at the cost of
neglecting the family, which will always make it
challenging for women to forge a professional career.
However, I have noticed that families are more united in
Vanuatu, so they help to raise each other’s children, which
does help to alleviate some of the challenges.
Photo: Anneke speaking with local Afghans at a new all-weather crossing in
Baluchi, Afghanistan, in July 2008. Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.
gov.au
We are so impressed by ADF veteran Anneke Jamieson, that we wanted to share her story with you for our
International Womens Day edition!
BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOUR MILITARY BACKGROUND:
I enlisted in 2001 into Civil Engineering at ADFA and started within the Corps of Engineers. I deployed to Afghanistan in
2008 and spent time at the School of Military Engineering, then various staff roles within 6 Engineer Support Regiment
and SCM-A. After starting a family, I worked in Army HQ as the Infrastructure SO2, and after having our 3rd child, I was
working part time at Infrastructure Asset Division, which included the Larrakeyah Development.
I was based in Darwin for 2 years, working remotely from Canberra between 2019 – 2020. Then we posted to Vanuatu,
which was an incredible posting, however I felt that the timing was right for me to focus on motherhood and art, so I
transferred out of the ADF in 2021.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN ARTISTIC?
I have always been interested in art and I spent a lot of time sketching in my field message notebook with lots of
pictures of combat boots out on the range. In 2015, I had just had my second child and we posted to America, so I
started running ‘Paint and Sip’ workshops for other partners with a focus on social connection, so I think I have run about
70-80 painting workshops for partners. I would really love to do art workshops for veterans and partners in QLD as I
am now more invested in my artistic career since leaving defence.
HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE AWARDED THE NAPIER WALLER ART PRIZE IN 2022?
It touched more people than I realised when I created the painting. The initial inspiration came from wanting to enter the
art comp, but I thought about what I wanted to create. That image came to me about feeling torn and still wanting to
be a valuable Officer, but things had changed for me - I created her to express how I felt about that journey, but there
were so many women floating through my mind who had faced the same battles between career and motherhood.
Honestly, the picture is not my story... not my rank or my story, but it does represent the story of a friend of mine. It
was important that the woman in the image wasn’t someone others would recognise but a representation of a
serving mother (though she happens to be a phenomenal academic in her own field).
I felt incredibly honoured to win the award and I was surprised that so many people connected with the portrait. I was
amazed to be amongst that calibre of artwork, and I felt proud that mothers in defence were seen and acknowledged.
The amount of feedback that I received was incredible and so special to me - it was overwhelming to even be
considered and to be a part of history.
Photos: Anneke accepting the 2022 Napier Waller Art Prize.
© Courtesy of AWM & other artworks Anneke has done.
Photo: Anneke in Afghanistan in 2008.
Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
We have recently returned from a posting in Vanuatu,
which wasn’t expected but it happened, and it has been
an amazing experience for our family. It was an easier
transition out of defence with an international posting, so
I made the decision and although I had intended to work
as a Reservist remotely, it didn’t work out that way while
living in Vanuatu. Making the big career decision to
separate from the ADF and live a less complicated life
overseas has given me time to focus on my art and my
family. This year, I am focused on creating an exhibition
exploring the positive aspects of military service – stay
tuned!
Art and Anneke
Interviewed by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
6 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 7

NT NEWCOMER’S GUIDE:
NAVIGATING ROADS, WEATHER
& AANT ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
New to the Territory? Navigating our roads might be a bit daunting, but don't worry! If you've
just arrived in the NT, we've got practical tips to help you fit in and feel like a true Territorian.
From scenic road trips to offbeat adventures, we've got key insights to make your journey run
smoothly.
Care for your battery: In warmer climates like the NT, car
batteries, especially non-maintenance-free ones, tend to have
a shorter lifespan compared to cooler regions. The high
temperatures can lead to a decrease in fluid levels, potentially
harming the battery and accelerating chemical reactions that
contribute to quicker wear and tear. To ensure the well-being
of your car's battery, it's crucial to keep the battery case clean,
make sure the battery is secure, be attentive to warning signs,
avoid short or infrequent trips, and schedule regular car
services.
Driving in Changing Weather: NT weather can be
unpredictable, from sudden showers to extreme heat.
When driving in the rain, maintain a safe distance, avoid
abrupt braking or acceleration, and pull over if visibility
is poor. Due to the ever-changing weather, roads can
close unexpectedly, especially due to flooding or other
events. If you're planning a road trip, a helpful website to
check beforehand is the NT Road Report. It gives you upto-date
information on the conditions of all governmentcontrolled
roads. You can find the latest updates at www.
roadreport.nt.gov.au.
Watch out for Wildlife: Encounters with animals like cows, kangaroos, or emus are common. Slow down
when you see them, brake gently, and pass safely. Animals can be unpredictable, so patience and caution are
key.
Roadside
Assistance
Get a quote today
aant.com.au/roadside-assistance
Transfer your membership: If you're a member of a
motoring club like RAA, RACV, RAC, RACT, RACQ, or
NRMA, you can transfer your membership to AANT at no
cost. Which means you get to keep your loyalty years and if
it's time to renew your membership, you won't have to pay
the joining fee again. It’s worth noting that AANT roadside
assistance stands out because it covers you in any vehicle
you drive. The membership is linked to you, not the vehicle.
Whether you’re driving your partners, mates or parent’s car
you’re covered. Give our friendly team a call on 08 8925
5901 or visit www.aant.com.au to learn more.
Make sure you’re covered: Breakdowns in the Territory can be costly due to long stretches of road and
desolate areas. Be prepared! AANT offers three levels of cover to accommodate 3 types of Territory
drivers, plus being a member doesn’t just grant you peace of mind on the road but you can also access
exclusive benefits and discounts with fuel, travel insurance, shopping, car rental, and more!
Visit www.aant.com.au to ensure you're covered when you need it.
Written by AANT
Senior Manager Marketing Media and Advocacy
8 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 9

WE REMEMBER THE BOMBING OF
DARWIN
19 FEBRUARY
In the initial attack at 9.58am on 19 February 1942, 188 enemy aircrafts dropped more bombs over Darwin than
were used in the attack on Pearl Harbour.
The attack was the first of at least 64 air raids on the Top End of Australia, which continued until 12 November
1943.
Remnants of WWII are still visible at many locations across Darwin, Katherine and Adelaide River. These sites
offer visitors a chance to pay homage to both the heroes who fought on the frontline and the Territory’s
multicultural community affected by the bombing raids. Asian, European and Indigenous people worked alongside
the allied servicemen as Darwin was attacked over an 18 month period.
The devastation suffered by Territorian families was profound. The evacuees who returned and the wider community
came together to rebuild Darwin after the war, and many stories of tragedy and survival have been shared during
these years.
No event in history has highlighted the tenacity, resilience, and spirit of those living in the Territory, quite as
profoundly as the Bombing of Darwin.
https://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/community/things-to-do/community-celebrations/bombing-of-darwin
NATIONAL SERVICEMEN DAY
14 FEBRUARY
On February 14th, we honour every young Australian man who served our nation through compulsory military
service after the Second World War.
In Australia, 15,300 men were conscripted into the Australian Army during the Vietnam conflict. More than 200 died
and at least 1,200 were wounded on active duty.
Most 20-year-old Australian men had to register for national service between 1965 and 1972. Servicemen
conscripted under the scheme became known as 'Nashos'. Names of potential conscripts were selected by a
birthday ballot, where numbered wooden marbles were drawn by lottery from a barrel. The numbers on the
marbles matched a secretly maintained list of birthdays.
Members of the Australian public and the media supported conscription during the Vietnam War. However, support
waned after the first conscripts were killed, stirring the anti-war movement. Australia's last combat troops came
home from Vietnam in March 1972. Conscription and the National Service Scheme also ended in 1972.
Thank you for your service ~ Lest We Forget.
https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/vietnam-war-1962-1975/events/conscription-and-birthdayballot
& http://nashoaustralia.org.au/History.htm
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
MARCH
To celebrate Women’s History Month, the Royal Australian Historical
Society (RAHS) have researched Australian women who have contributed
to our history in various and meaningful ways. Visit the RAHS website
throughout the month of March to learn more about the diverse
contributions women have made to Australia’s history.
Stories include; Dame Roma Mitchell, Edith Cowan, Essie Coffey, Nancy
Bird and Vivian Bullwinkle.
https://www.rahs.org.au/womens-history-month/
PURPLE POPPIES FOR WAR ANIMALS
Lest we forget our four-legged diggers served too -
the 24th of February is National Day for War Animals
in Australia.
The Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation Inc.
(AWAMO) was initially set up to establish recognition for
animals that had died in conflicts - over 9 million alone in
WWI.
AWAMO is a registered non-profit charity made up of
community members from diverse backgrounds that have the
likeminded aim to recognise the deeds and sacrifices of all
animal species, who have given their lives and their loyalty,
serving alongside their human handlers in war and peace time.
AWAMO has four main core activities.
1. The establishment of memorials.
2. Fiscal and material sponsorship to veteran Service dogs.
3. Education.
4. Sponsorship to other animal projects assisting veterans or
animals.
Purple poppies are designed to be worn alongside the
traditional red one as a reminder of their bravery and that
both humans and animals served together. Funds raised
from donations and the sale of Purple Poppies are used by
AWAMO to establish memorials. They also fund training of
support animals to help soldiers with post-traumatic
stress, and provide care packages including paying
for care for war animals retired from service due
to illness, injury and old age after active service.
References:
http://awamo.org.au/
https://www.purplepoppies.com.au
https://www.awm.gov.au/national-day-for-war-animals
AWAMO opened Australia’s Official war animal
memorial in Pozieres, France. This is AWAMO’s
largest venture so far – the $250,000 bronze statues
not only honour Australian war animals but animals
from all Nations. All funds were raised by AWAMO
with NO government funding.
We continue to make people aware of their deeds
and sacrifices by placing memorials at important
sites, thus far 40 Australian and International
monuments have been established.
Check out the AWAMO website for more projects,
memorials and achievements.
Purple poppies can be
purchased in the NT
from:
The Top Ender Tri-Services
Magazine
Contact us or come and visit our
stand at the DMFS Welcome to Top
End event
The Furry Godmother Pet Resort
Larkin Ave Darwin International Airport NT 0820
- 08 8945 7766
Pins and other products are available online:
www.purplepoppies.com.au/products/
10 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 11

We’ve been sniffing around the defence
community and found an amazing new
business for your furry friend – introducing
Gunners Goodies!
Gunners
Goodies
WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO DEFENCE?
Although I have never served myself, I have been
part of the Army world ever since I was born! My
father served in the British Forces, Royal Artillery
(Pads Brat). I grew up in Germany and had the best
childhood ever, then moved back to the UK in 1992.
I have a daughter (Chantel, 25) who lives in
Germany, and I met Carl in 2011 in Larkhill,
Wiltshire. We married in Koh Samui, Thailand in
2013.
Carl served in the British Army, WO1 (RSM) for 27
years, and was in The Royal Artillery (RA). In 2016,
we decided that we would like to be considered for
the ADF. The process took around 14 months from
start to finish, and in Oct 2017 we were posted to
Darwin for 3 years.
We were then posted to Canberra for two years. I
really enjoyed living in the ACT! The weather took
some time getting used to, especially going from one
extreme in Darwin to the frosty winter in Canberra
- I think we've become a bit softer since being in
Australia!
WE ARE NOW CURRENTLY LIVING IN
BRISBANE, AND WE WILL BE HERE FOR THREE
YEARS (MINIMUM).
Our business is Gunners Goodies. Yes, it's
Artillery themed, if you hadn't already guessed!
Gunners Goodies are frozen fruit and vegetable
treats that can be given to our dogs any time of
the day/night, especially when the weather is hot
as a refreshing snack. They are great for helping our
pooches cool down, a great source of energy, jam
packed full of vitamins and minerals essential for our
dogs diet. They are a very healthy alternative treat
rather than giving them fatty foods (junk food) and
then having them try and lose weight when health
issues arise. They are also safe for humans, however
they are intended for dogs.
OUR INSPIRATION TO START THE BUSINESS...
It all started when making these treats for our own
dog, Gunner, then Carl mentioned that I should be
doing it as a business. I had thought about it, but I
never took it seriously. Then, a friend came over for
a cuppa, and was impressed by the food I was giving
Gunner for dinner and commented about doing it as
a business. Carl gleefully shouted, “told you” and
laughed!
A few days had passed, and it was still playing on my
mind. I had so many questions - could this really
work or am I just being silly? So, I gave it a shot and
haven’t looked back!
WHERE DO YOUR CUSTOMERS
PURCHASE GUNNERS GOODIES?
Our treats are all lovingly made at our home in
Brisbane and we accept orders via phone, text,
email, online through our website or at
markets and events. I am hoping that social
media influencers, businesses and the general
public will like our products and place an
order.
OUR GREATEST CHALLENGE...
It took some time to understand the rules and
regulations with regards to manufacturing and
selling food products for dogs, however we
have contacted the regulatory authorities and
meet all the legal requirements. It has been a
steep learning curve, but it’s important for us
to keep pets healthy!
WHAT'S NEXT FOR GUNNERS GOODIES?
We have started selling our products at local
markets and events, and we have recently
received an order from a local doggy day care
centre to provide them with an ongoing supply
of Gunners Goodies.
I'd like to branch out across Australia and
employ military partners to engage in a
franchise with my company. I have also
become a dog foster carer - we have a
beautiful girl staying with us at present.
Hopefully she will go on to find her “furever”
home and we can then help another dog.
The ultimate goal is to see my products (with
Gunners face) in Pet Shops.
Nourishing with Nature - In a world where
artificial additives and questionable ingredients are all
too common, we stand out by returning to the
fundamentals. Our philosophy is straightforward -
nature knows best. We utilise the pure,
unadulterated goodness of fruits and vegetables to
craft treats that are not only delicious but also
exceedingly beneficial for your dog's health. Each
piece is a fusion of nature's finest, ensuring a
healthy, contented pet with every nibble.
Gunners Goodies has an Artillery spin (just for
fun) and promotes different terminology
throughout the ADF, such as:
'Primer' Pumpkin
'Banging' Broccoli
'Rapid' Raspberry
'Ballistic' Bananas
'Charging' Carrots
'Bombardier' Blueberry
'Projectile' Peas
'Marching' Mangos
Interviewed by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
'Super Charged' Sweet
Potato
'Sergeant' Strawberry
'Victory' Mixed Veg
'Major' Mixed Berries
We love seeing photos of your dogs enjoying our
treats!
Please follow us!
@gunnersgoodies23
@gunnersgoodies23
gunners.goodies
gunnersgoodies23@gmail.com
https://gunnersgoodies.com/
Contact Kelly at Gunners Goodies to find out more!
12 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 13

LEGACY
DEBT OF HONOR
LUKE GOSLING MP
We had a chat with Luke Gosling MP to find out
more about his participation in the Legacy
Centenary Torch Relay and his connection to
Legacy.
1. How are you connected to Legacy or, are you
connected to the Legacy Relay via a Defence
relationship?
As a fourth-generation veteran I have been a
longtime admirer of Legacy’s work.
2. If connected via a Defence relationship, how
are you connected?
Legacy invited me to participate in a leg of the
torch relay in Darwin – part of my federal
electorate of Solomon.
3. What does Legacy mean to you?
Legacy is an example of the very best of the
Australian ethos of looking after your mates.
Veteran mates of mine have worked at the very
highest levels of Legacy at a national and local
level and I have volunteered on events organised
by Legatees. Beneficiary friends of mine are so
appreciative of the care and companionship that
Legacy offers.
4. What encouraged you to participate in the
Legacy Centenary Relay?
I wanted to be part of an event that shone a light
(pardon the pun) on the century of assistance to
our armed forces and our veteran families.
5. What did participating in the Legacy Centenary
Relay mean to you?
Participating in the Legacy relay was a humbling
experience.
I really appreciated the opportunity to carry
forward the story of Legacy and the differences
it makes in the lives of those who have lost a
loved one in our nation’s name.
6. Is there anything else you would like to add?
I won’t be here for the 200-year celebration, but
I hope that the torch is still burning brightly for
the debt of honour we have to care for those
Australian brothers and sisters lost to us in this
world
Lest We Forget.
Interviewed by Charlene Carter
Community Coordinator
The Top Ender Magazine
Together with the Parliamentary Friends of Veterans and in partnership with the Australian National
Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM), I co-hosted The ADF to V of Creative Conversations in Canberra.
An evening of poetry, art, spoken word, and music by Australian veterans - the multi-disciplinary creative
arts event affirmed that the veteran community is not defined by any mental and physical scars of their
service, but by the strength of their skill and character, as shaped through their service.
This time last year the Australian
Government’s Veteran Wellbeing
Grants program had delivered $3.5
million to 57 organisations across
Australia to support veterans and
families – including right here in the
Northern Territory.
Community-based music and arts
projects, mindfulness and well-being
programs are just some of the initiatives
we’ll see popping up around the country.
Squadron Leader Aleisha Croxford’s
performance of ‘My Mind & Me,’ by Selena
Gomez was her first since joining the
Australian Defence Force almost two
decades ago.
Diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive
disorder in early 2022, Aleisha explained the
song had helped her understand her
experience in a way she hadn’t yet been
able to.
“Being creative isn’t something you initially
think of when you think military, but it’s
surprising how many of us are – it gives us
another avenue to share and relate to each
other, and work through things that maybe
we can’t work through with words,” she
shares.
Access to art and music therapy programs
is also an important feature of the new
National Cultural Policy ‘Revive.’
“The arts are an excellent way of being
more fully connected to the health and
well-being of the individual,” explains my
fellow Creative Conversations co-host, Mark
Johnston, ANVAMs Chairman and Director.
“If a person has the opportunity to be creative,
to be validated, and experience a positive
community then the rest will take care of
itself.”
For further information and/or feedback relating
to this article, please contact the Office of Luke
Gosling OAM MP.
Electorate Office: 3/266 Trower Road, Casuarina,
NT, 0810.
Postal address: PO Box 43300, Casuarina, NT,
0810.
Telephone: (08) 8928 0180
Luke Gosling OAM MP is the federal
Member for Solomon and a former
Army officer.
14 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 15

VETERAN HEALTH CHECK
Making your health a priority can be a
challenge where life and its busy
schedules are concerned. There may be
a moment where you notice that you’re
not feeling as fit as you used to or sleep
is harder to come by because of the
thoughts gathering on your mind.
The Veteran Health Check is a simple, yet
comprehensive assessment that has been
specifically designed to help identify any
physical or mental health concerns veterans
may have post separation from the ADF.
The early years after transitioning out of the
ADF is when veterans are most at risk; and
this will help you act on any issues or concerns
early and stay well as you move into civilian
life.
Even if you are feeling healthy it’s important to
develop a relationship with your GP and
continue to see them on a yearly basis, so
they can get to know you and assist you to
proactively manage your health over the
coming years.
There are two types of health checks available:
ONE-OFF VETERAN HEALTH CHECK
If you are a veteran who transitioned on or
before 30 June 2019, you can access the Oneoff
Veteran Health Check. This type of health
check is eligible for a benefit through
Medicare, so you do not need to be a DVA
Veteran Card holder to access this service. If
your GP does not bulk bill, you may be
required to make a gap payment.
ANNUAL VETERAN HEALTH CHECK
If you are a veteran who transitioned out of
the ADF on or after 1 July 2019, you are
eligible for the Annual Veteran Health Check.
This service allows you to build a relationship
with your local General Practitioner (GP) as
you will have an appointment annually every
year for the first five years after you leave the
ADF. You can access this service through your
DVA Veteran Card and it is at no cost to the
veteran.
HOW TO BOOK A VETERAN HEALTH CHECK
1. Find a GP. Every GP across Australia is able to conduct the Veteran
Health check. If you do not have a regular GP, you can find one near
you by searching “Health Direct” or by calling 1800 022 222.
2. Call the GP practice and ask whether the GP accepts the Veteran Card
and/or bulk bills.
- One-Off Veteran Health
Checks are eligible for a Medicare
rebate. At the time of booking ask
if the practice bulk bills and check
if you’ll need to pay any gap
payments.
- Annual Veteran Health Checks
are done using your DVA Veteran
Card at no cost to the veteran.
You’ll need to ask whether the
GP accepts this card prior to
booking.
3. Book a 45 minute appointment.
When you book you will need to ask for a longer appointment than
usual. Let them know that this is for a Veteran Health check.
4. Bring along your DVA Veteran Card or Medicare card to the
appointment.
Each Health check will differ depending on your doctor and needs. If you
are worried about any particular aspect of your health or family history you
can discuss this with the GP.
It may be helpful to write a list of questions or concerns to bring with you.
Your GP may provide, prescribe or refer you to relevant health
professionals for further testing or to DVA services and programs (DVA
may find treatment and tests if you have an accepted condition). All
information shared between you and your GP will remain confidential and
results will not be shared with DVA, unless you ask them to do so e.g. to
support a claim - ask the practice for their privacy and confidentiality
policies prior if you require.
For more information on the Veteran Health Check please visit:
www.dva.gov.au/health-and-treatment/veterans-health-check or email CSA.
NT@dva.gov.au
You can continue to see your GP for regular health
checks anytime, even if you can no longer
claim for the one-off or Annual Veteran’s
Health Checks.
Yours in health,
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ADVISORS IN DVA
Working within a nationally dispersed team, your
local DVA Community Support Advisor (CSA)
offers local, focused support and guidance to
strengthen the capabilities of ex-service
organisations, veterans and family groups.
CSAs offer information sessions about DVA services,
supports and social health programs, and support to
ESOs who are interested in creating collaborative
opportunities to improve the health and wellbeing of
veterans and their families. CSAs are here to support
your organisation, to support your members.
Veterans’ Health Week is an annual event
promoting one of the 4 health pillars of Mental
Wellness, Social Connection, Physical Activity, and
Nutrition. With up to $720 available to support
events run by veteran support organisations, in 2023
VHW saw over 660 applications accepted nationally,
proving the program’s success and popularity.
Veterans’ Health Week often inspires the creation
of small, one-off events, courses and workshops
and some of these initiatives may be eligible for
Photo: Veterans of Australia – Hervey Bay. (left to right) Kenneth, Peter,
Shayne, Barry and Kevin with guitars and music equipment they purchased
with Health and Wellbeing funding in 2023 © DVA
Health & Wellbeing funding. This seed funding
provides the start-up funds for ongoing health and
wellbeing programs with an initial financial
investment of up to $2000 to help get them off the
ground.
Successful applications have included funding for
surfboards, camping equipment, guitars and musical
instruments, lawn bowls, gardening tools, and yoga
equipment for ESOs to run ongoing group
activities and programs, supporting their local
community’s health and wellbeing.
Are you an ex-service organisation, veteran or family
group that has received Health & Wellbeing funding
recently? We would love to hear from you! Send
your updates, good news stories and social media
snapshots through to CommunitySupport@dva.gov.
au or your local state CSA inbox.
With a range of support programs on offer, including
Heart Health, Men’s Health Peer Education and
Veteran Health Check, the Community Support
team encourage veteran and family focused groups
to connect and find out more. Please see https://
www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/workand-social-life-programs/community-support-team
Written by Siân Howell
Community Support Adviser (NT)
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
FIND
OUT
MORE
Contact Department
of Veterans’ Affairs, NT
1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372)
8:30am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday
Written by Louise Ruhl
Acting Deputy Commissioner, NT
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
14 Winnellie Road, Winnellie 0820
16 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 17

Defence Member and Family Support
Welcome to 2024! We hope that you had a wonderful and
relaxing festive season welcoming in the new year.
Whether you’re posted up here for the first time or returning,
take the chance to check out some of the great activities that the
Top End has available at the start of the new year. Throughout
the year a range of agencies put on loads of different, free and
paid events for people in the NT. With cultural and food festivals,
motor sport, music and arts there is always something to do.
Sporting
There is a wide range of sports and activities available throughout
the year in the Top End. Sport in the NT is very inclusive and
there are great opportunities to become engaged as a player,
official, volunteer and opportunities to learn a new sport.
The Sport and Swim voucher scheme gives children governmentsubsidised
access to sport, recreation and cultural activities. For
more information, visit: Sport and swim vouchers | NT.GOV.AU
Connecting with your Local Community:
Your local DMFS team can connect you with your local
community and services. You will see us at meet and greets and
unit welcomes, including at community groups: Network Tindal,
Robertson Barracks Family Group, Larrakeyah Neighbourhood
House and the Top Ender Magazine.
We look forward to meeting new and returning ADF families at
our February and March activities.
Weather Information:
Cyclone season in the NT takes place from November to April,
with an increase in rainfall causing many areas in the NT to be
subject to flooding. In such instances as cyclones and flooding or
severe storms, it is best to be well prepared and informed.
The NT Government webpage is a useful resource and provides
information on how to prepare for disasters and emergencies
including how to create a household emergency plan and
emergency kit. Visit: https://nt.gov.au/emergency/cyclones
Vehicle and Driver Registration:
The Motor Vehicle and Registry (MVR) provides vehicle
registration and driver licensing services across the Northern
Territory. You should transfer your interstate vehicle
registration within three months of taking up residence in the
NT. Please refer to the website below to find out about NT
vehicle registration.
https://mvr.nt.gov.au/
Stay Connected
1800 624 608
memberandfamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au
defence.gov.au/members-families
DMFS_AusDefence
DMFS_AusDefence
Advice and Support:
Defence Member and Family
Support are here to help. Reach
out to the Defence Member and
Family Helpline on 1800 624 608
at any time for advice, support or
connection with your local
community.
Our website has information on
ADF member and family content
so be sure to bookmark our URL
and follow us on social media to
keep up-to-date on planned
events.
DMFS Activities
dmfs-darwin.eventbrite.com.au
dmfs-tindal.eventbrite.com.au
Christmas Crafty Creations
ADF members and families enjoyed a festive Friday
evening with DMFS Darwin creating and decorating
baubles and bonbons. It was great to see the
creative ideas for each of the decorations.
Photos: Christmas Crafty Creations © DMFS
DefenceMemberFamilySupport
DARWIN
TINDAL
Written by Darryl Guerin
Military Support Officer, RAAF
Defence Member and Family Support
MANAGING ANXIETY
At different times in our lives, we will experience
anxiety, but what is it?
Symptoms of anxiety may include:
• finding it hard to concentrate
• not sleeping, or waking in the night
with bad dreams
• not eating properly
• quickly getting angry or
irritable, and being out of
control during outbursts
• constantly worrying or having
negative thoughts
• feeling tense and fidgety, or
using the toilet more often
• always crying
• being clingy
• complaining of tummy aches and feeling
unwell
Social Anxiety is another type of anxiety, that relates
to worries about everyday activities, such as meeting
strangers, starting conversations, speaking on the
phone, working or shopping.
Anxiety can help us in many ways, it may make us more
aware of a situation so we can get away from danger, or
it could be felt when we are in scary situations (think of
this as self-preserving).
Here are some self-help tips for when you feel those
anxiety feeling coming;
• Grounding yourself; this could be as simple as
becoming aware of items in the room, by thinking/
saying items in the room as you see them puts you
back into that moment, not forward thinking of the
future, not thinking of what happened in the past,
but what is happening right now. This will help to
give you clarity and time to breathe before moving/
talking.
• Breathing; it sounds like a
simple suggestion, right?
Sometimes when we are
anxious, our muscles that
help us to breathe will
become tight and we. May
find our breath shortening,
almost like we are ready to
run (fight or flight feelings).
Taking a moment to focus on
deep belly breathing helps
our body to realise we are
safe, we don’t need to run.
RELAX
Take some deep
breaths, count
down from 5 to 1
following the
instructions on
the grounding
wheel
INHALE
Trace the arrows
with your finger,
following each
instruction for a
count of four.
EXHALE
• Recognising intrusive thoughts; sometimes
we may have intrusive thoughts “I am not
good at this”, “I always stuff up”, and other
negative words; being aware of when we think
things like this are really helpful in
being able to change those
thoughts. Remind yourself “I
have this”, “I can do it”, “It
will be ok”, or similar
words.
HOLD
• 5 Senses; what is
something you can see,
hear, smell, taste, and
feel? Become aware of all
these things one by one,
when we do this, similar
to grounding techniques,
we are becoming aware of
the here and now.
• Ask an adult; there will be plenty of times in
life we need help. You can ask a parent,
teacher, or trusted adult what they do to help
with anxiety. Sometimes it is talking about it
that helps, there is power in words.
WHEN TO SEEK ADDITIONAL
HELP WITH ANXIETY
• it's not getting better, or is getting worse
• self-help is not working
• it's affecting their school or family life, or
their friendships
For our defence families, we have free services
available via Open Arms, referrals are easy
and triaged on how quickly help is required.
There is no cost and no pressures from the
team at Open Arms, remember it is a service
there to help you.
Written by Amanda
Letcher
Community Contributor
The Top Ender Magazine
Sources: https://www.openarms.gov.au/ &
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/childrenand-young-adults/advice-for-parents/anxietydisorders-in-children/
Defence Member and Family Support are here to help. Reach out to the Defence Member and Family Helpline 1800 624 608 at any
time for advice, support or connection with your local community. Our website has information on ADF member and family content
18 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 19
so be sure to bookmark our URL and follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on planned events.

The AMWChoir is a ‘no audition no experience required’ choir.
Celebrating shared experiences, the AMWChoir creates safe spaces
for women and girls to sing from their hearts and make connections
with others connected to Defence. AMWChoir Darwin meets on the
first, third, and fifth Thursdays of the month, but there is no expectation
to attend every rehearsal.
Our repertoire includes contemporary pop, older favourites, show
tunes, seasonal and ceremonial songs, and original choral pieces, and is
shared across all locations.
For further information visit AMWChoir.com or contact Elina via email
coordinator.darwin@AMWChoir.com
Written by Elina Jansan
Darwin Coordinator
Australian Military Wives Choir
ST VALENTINES
DAY
14 FEBRUARY
The holiday we know today got its name from a man
named Valentine. While a few different stories are told
about what he did to inspire Valentines Day, many
people believe he’s celebrated for his role as a Roman
priest who helped couples secretly get married.
As the story goes, Emperor Claudius II of Rome—who
reigned from the year 268 A.D. to 270 A.D.—banned
marriage because he thought unmarried men made
better soldiers. Valentine thought this was unfair and
decided to break the rules and perform marriages
anyway. He kept the ceremonies quiet, but he was
eventually caught and later killed on February 14 of the
year 270 for defying the emperor. Right before he died,
Valentine supposedly wrote the first-ever “valentine” to
his jailer’s daughter, with whom he’d fallen in love. Later,
in the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I declared the day of
his death as St. Valentine’s Day.
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/celebrations/
article/valentines-day
ST PATRICK’S DAY
17 MARCH
Patron Saint of Ireland but born in Roman Britain in the
late 4th century, St Patrick was kidnapped at the age of
16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He managed to
escape only to return to convert the Irish to Christianity.
By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had
established monasteries, churches, and schools.
The shamrock is associated with this day because St
Patrick used three leaves to depict the Father, Son and
Holy Ghost; thus the Feast of Saint Patrick, March 17th,
become a cultural and religious celebration in
remembrance of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint
of Ireland.
How do we celebrate this day?
Traditionally enjoy
corned beef with
cabbage
Irish stew
Green beer
Wear a shamrock
Dress as a
Leprechaun
Wear green
Enjoy a Guinness or
a Guinness pie
Dance an Irish jig!
Hunt for Four Leaf
Clovers
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Saint-Patricks-
Day
1000 Hearts is a global kindness community that I accidentally started in
2016 because I felt like the world really needed a bit of love.
When I began 1000 Hearts, I hand-stitched one
thousand pocket hearts to be given away in
random acts of kindness. I started getting
messages from people who received the
hearts and was touched to realise the power
of these little hearts, which people carried as
talismans of love, courage, hope and comfort.
Many people asked me for additional hearts to
share, and lots of people started making and
distributing hearts themselves. A community started
to grow from my small act of love; a community where kindness and
connection are valued and hearts are healed.
Together, we have offered hearts to people struggling with a wide variety
of challenges like loneliness, mental illness, sickness and bereavement. We
have sent hearts to places impacted by violence, natural disasters and acts
of terrorism. We have also offered thousands of hearts to charities,
services and individuals who need a bit of love.
Here at 1000 Hearts, we believe that kindness can change
the world. If you believe in the power of love, you’re in
good company here - Sarah.
BECOMING A HEARTIST
- MAKING HEARTS
It uses basic sewing skills
with a few little tricks, and
the kits come with
instructions and the
template for the original
1000 Hearts pocket heart.
If you'd like to bring heartmaking
to your corner of
the world, you can start a
heartist's group with friends,
colleagues and others in
your community.
Head to the website for
more info!
Extracted from 1000 Hearts Project
https://www.1000hearts.com.au/
ENDOMETRIOSIS
AWARENESS
MONTH
MARCH
https://www.marchintoyellow.org.au/
https://www.endometriosisaustralia.org/research
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month.
March into Yellow is a fun and easy way to open up a
conversation about the disease and an opportunity
for our community to show support.
March into Yellow encourages our broader
community to show their support for the invisible
illness by adorning themselves in the colour yellow.
It is also a fun way to raise funds for Endometriosis
Australia who support endometriosis education and
research.
Endometriosis is a common disease where tissue
similar to the lining of the womb grows outside it in
other parts of the body. More than 830,000 (more
than 14%) of Australian girls, women, and those
assigned female at birth* live with endometriosis at
some point in their life, with the disease often
starting in teenagers.
Endometriosis most often affects the reproductive
organs but it can also be found in and around the
bowel and bladder. It has been found in every part of
the body, including the skin, joints, lungs and brain.
20 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 21

OVARIAN CANCER
AWARENESS MONTH
Around 1,550 women are diagnosed with ovarian
cancer in Australia each year, with more than twothirds
at an advanced stage. Ovarian Cancer
Awareness Month is focused on helping people get
tested earlier to prevent this as well as providing
support to patients and families.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
There is no early detection test for ovarian cancer,
so all women need to be aware of the symptoms.
The most commonly reported symptoms for ovarian
cancer are:
• Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal
bloating
• Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
• Feeling full after eating a small amount
• Needing to urinate often or urgently
FEBRUARY
WIN
WITH OUR SPONSORS
We’ve partnered with some of our favourite local businesses to provide you with
some extra special treats! Enter today and you could win one of the following
awesome prizes!
HAIR CARE VOUCHER
Integrity Hair has kindly donated a voucher for all
your hair care needs! Located at RAAF Darwin.
Valued at $100
TRAVEL CREDIT
Submit your favourite Top End experience/holiday photo
to receive $200 discount on next holiday booking with
Catherine at MTA Travel!
*Conditions – min spend $2000.
ENTER NOW AT
THETOPENDERMAGAZINE.ORG.AU/WIN
TERMS: Open to Top End based Defence members, veterans and their immediate families aged 18 and up. Entrants are permitted to
apply for multiple prizes. Closes 10 March 2024. Enter online by visiting www.thetopendermagazine.org.au/win
Winners for each prize will be drawn at random. Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next edition of The
Top Ender.
ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Excessive fatigue
• Lower back pain
• Indigestion or nausea
• Bleeding after menopause or in-between periods
• Pain during sex or bleeding after
It is important to remember all the symptoms
mentioned can be caused by other, less serious
medical conditions. However, if you are experiencing
any of these symptoms, which are persistent and
troublesome, you should see your doctor. They will
be able to examine you and if necessary, do further
tests to find the cause of your problems.
If you are not comfortable with your doctor’s
diagnosis or you are still concerned about
unexplained persistent symptoms, you should seek a
second opinion.
You know your body better than anyone else, so
always listen to what your body is saying and trust
your instincts.
Track your symptoms in our symptom diary and
take this record with you to your doctor.
TESTING FOR OVARIAN CANCER
Your GP is usually the first person you go to if you
have symptoms.
If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer, there are
several tests they can perform to help decide
whether your symptoms are due to ovarian cancer
or other causes. They will examine you, ask about
your symptoms and possibly order a CA125 blood
test and an ultrasound.
The CA125 blood test is looking for a specific
type of protein or a tumour marker called
CA125. This protein is often higher than normal
in women with ovarian cancer.
Do not be afraid to ask your GP if you are
concerned about symptoms or testing.
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22 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 23

SANTA SPOTTED IN THE TOP END!
Over the holidays, Santa made an exciting appearance at the Mates4Mates Veteran &
Family Wellbeing Centre in Darwin, delivering presents to our Mini Mates. With facepainting
and a Christmas feast, veterans and family members celebrated the holiday
season together with lots of fun and laughter. Mates4Mates offer a variety of family
friendly activities throughout the year, particularly over the school holidays, so that
veterans, partners and children can connect with like-minded families in a safe and
fun environment.
ACCESSING EMDR THERAPY VIA TELEHEALTH
EMDR is a psychotherapy, or talk therapy, offered at Mates4Mates which can help
veterans process upsetting memories, thoughts, and feelings related to their trauma.
EMDR stands for eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, The underlying theory of
EMDR is that many psychological difficulties are the result of distressing life experiences
which have not been stored in the memory properly and are thought to be unprocessed or
blocked.
Telehealth is an alternative method to engage in EMDR as part of therapy for those who might
find it difficult to get to a Mates4Mates Veteran & Family Wellbeing Centre or find an available
psychologist in their area. Visit the Mates4Mates website to read more about this service.
Images: Courtesy of Mates4Mates
UPCOMING EVENTS
CREATING MINDFUL
MOMENTS
Mates4Mates offer a range of arts and crafts
activities for veterans and family members to
participate in, from introductory courses on
watercolour painting to learning how to use a
pottery wheel to creating a beautiful new piece
of art. Engaging in arts and craft can be highly
beneficial for your mental wellbeing as it allows you
to take time out to do something you enjoy and
focus on a moment of mindfulness to de-stress.
Mates4Mates runs regular social connection activities across Darwin and surrounding
regions, which are free for veterans and their families. A great opportunity to connect
with others in the community who understand you, regular activities include weekly
walks, breakfasts, aqua fitness sessions, craft workshops, school holiday activities, and
more.
Visit the Mates4Mates website to check out what’s on offer: www.mates4mates.org/
events
THE MATES4MATES TEAM
ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU!
If you’re a current or ex-serving Defence Force member, partner, or family member who is
looking for a friendly, safe space to find mateship and maybe learn a new skill, reach out to the
Mates4Mates Northern Territory team.
To find out more, call 1300 4 MATES (62 837) or visit the team at the Mates4Mates Veteran & Family
Wellbeing Centre located at 39 Stuart Highway, Stuart Park (enter via Ramirez Road).
LISTEN TO
YOUR HEART
This February in Australia is Heart Research Month, a
month to create and raise awareness for various heart
health conditions and diseases. Heart disease kills one
Australian every 27 minutes.
Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain resulting
from a negative situation or demanding circumstances. It
can have a major influence upon mood, our sense of wellbeing,
behaviour, and health.
It’s important to note that the long-term effects of stress
can damage your health and is also a risk factor for heart
disease.
Factors that are commonly regarded as components of
‘stress’ include:
depression, anxiety, panic
disorder
social isolation and lack of
quality social support
life events such as
MANAGING STRESS
bereavement, diagnosis of
chronic illness, or severe life
changes
work-related ‘stressors’
anger and hostility
Stress is a key risk factor for heart disease. Knowing when
to adjust your lifestyle and situation is an important part of
living a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding stress, stress management and relaxation
are vital in ensuring good mental health, and in adjusting to
the pressures and strains of everyday life.
POSITIVE STRESS
A certain amount of stress can be a good thing - it can
help you focus and achieve what you want to do. It
brings anticipation and excitement into your life – with a
holiday or family celebration. It helps you to grow and
change, to avoid danger, and to strive for a goal.
NEGATIVE STRESS
Stress can also be negative and can make someone feel
tense, anxious, fearful, depressed or uncomfortable.
Some situations that many of us find difficult or upsetting
can include:
conflict with others
meeting deadlines
writing exams
caring for dependants
moving house
relationship problems
health problems
WANT TO MANAGE YOUR STRESS?
Identify what CAUSES stress and how you cope
TALK to a trusted friend or family member
Take CARE of yourself
Access SUPPORT and make a PLAN
FEBRUARY
Heart Research Month raising awareness of the
importance of life-saving heart research, including
preventing, diagnosing and treating heart disease.
HEART ATTACKS
For your heart to function properly, it needs a good blood
supply. A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery,
which supplies blood to your heart, becomes blocked.
This stops the blood flow and reduces the amount of
oxygen that gets to your heart muscle. This causes the
most common heart attack symptoms, which are chest
discomfort or pain and can spread to your arms, neck, jaw
or back. Unlike angina this discomfort often last for longer
than 10 minutes.
Facts about heart attacks:
• A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery, which
supplies blood to your heart, becomes blocked.
• The most common sign of a heart attack is chest
discomfort or pain, which can spread to your arms,
neck, jaw or back.
• Chest discomfort or pain can last for several minutes
or come and go.
• A heart attack requires emergency treatment
to restore blood flow to your heart.
• Always call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you think
you or someone else may be having a heart attack.
CARDIAC ARREST
A cardiac arrest occurs when your heart stops beating due
to an electrical malfunction.
A person in cardiac arrest will be unconscious (not able to
respond) and will not be breathing. This is because their
heart has suddenly stopped beating and blood can no
longer flow to the brain, heart and lungs.
A cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. If the heart is not
restarted immediately, cardiac arrest can lead to brain
damage and then death. Every second counts. If you
witness a cardiac arrest call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Giving chest compressions and using a defibrillator (AED)
can improve a person’s chances of survival.
Get more support from someone specially trained in heart
health care. Call the Heart Foundation Helpline on 13 11
12.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing heart
attack symptoms for greater than 10 minutes of rest, or
if symptoms are severe, or they are getting worse, call
Triple Zero (000) immediately.
14 FEBRUARY
Wear Red Day to raise awareness for cardiovascular
disease, supported by Heart Research Australia
Extracted from the Heart
Foundation website
https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/conditions/
heart-attack & https://www.heartresearch.com.au/
24 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 25

26 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 27

ROBERTSON
BARRACKS
FAMILY GROUP
LARRAKEYAH
NEIGHBOURHOOD
HOUSE
Robertson Barracks Family Group welcomes you in 2024. See our updated weekly schedule or join us
on Facebook for up to date events and information.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
9 - 11 AM - COFFEE AND C ATCH UP
CENTRE CLOSED
9 - 10 AM - PT SESSION @ EDGE
CENTRE CLOSED
9 - 11 AM - PLAYGROUP
C O N T A C T
Sam Maloney,
Centre Coordinator
www.rbfg.com.au
2023 ended with the Christmas Party at
Darwin Trailer Boat Club, where Santa
arrived on a Harley. Thank you to Santa and
all of the families for attending. It was a great
day filled with lots of fun and fabulous food.
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House also
farewelled their Coordinator, Kylie Wilton
and her family as they move on to their
next adventures. LNH wish Kylie and her
family all the best in their new location; we
will miss them at the Centre.
2024 will see the return of Bubs & Bumps,
Playgroup, Coffee Out & About, Reading
Between the Wines, Dinners and Crafts.
Welcome back to all our returning families
and all new families joining us at the start of
2024!
BUILD A
BUNNY GAME
HOW TO PLAY
DRAW 2
EYES
DRAW A
NOSE
DRAW
SOME
WHISKERS
DRAW
SOME
CARROTS
DRAW A
SMILEY
MOUTH
DRAW 2
ARMS
Follow us on Facebook at Larrakeyah
Neighbourhood House Community Group
to stay updated with all our activities and
events.
C O N T A C T
Karen Jerrett,
Centre Coordinator
www.larrakeyahhouse.com.au
J O I N U S O N F A C E B O O K
Keep up to date with our weekly program.
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House
Community Group
Reading Between
the Wines Book Club
Roll the dice
Draw the part of the bunny
from the number you
rolled.
If you get the same number twice,
miss a go.
Take turns with a friend to see who
can complete their bunny first!
Tip: When you’re finished, you can
colour the bunny in your favourite
colours!
SIMPLE SAUSAGE SALAD
INGREDIENTS
• 2 CHICKEN OR BEEF SAUSAGES, SLICED INTO 1CM PORTIONS
• 2 CUPS SPINACH LEAVES
• ¼ DICED RED AND GREEN CAPSICUM
• 8 SNAP PEAS
• 1 CUP SAUTÉED BUTTON MUSHROOMS, SLICED
Supplied by Deb Herring
• 1 X SLICED OR GRATED CARROT
• 5 X CHERRY TOMATOES, HALVED
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
• ½ TIN OF CORN KERNELS
• SPRINKLE WITH GARLIC SALT AND SESAME SEEDS
Alternatively, you can use cooked diced chicken instead of sausages, or
add diced cooked bacon, chorizo, haloumi cheese, lentils or four bean mix.
Photo: Recipe and photo courtesy of Deb Herring on
behalf of The Top Ender.
28 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 29

THE PILBARA REGIMENT
FAMILY GROUP
The Pilbara Regiment Family Group is excited to bring all new
adventures and activities to our members for 2024. We
welcome all our new members to the region and look
forward to catching up with familiar faces.
We finished off last year with a fantastic family fun day at the
Karratha Leisureplex. Both aqua-runs got a work out, with
“kids” of all ages having a go. Santa paid us a visit, to make the
day extra special.
To begin 2024, we have two awesome events coming up.
Firstly, for the ladies, we invite you to join us for a catch up at
The Tambrey on Friday 2nd February. This will be a great
opportunity to meet new friends or catch up with old ones.
Secondly, on Saturday 10th February, the Family Group joins
with the Regiment to bring you a day of fun on the water at
the Dampier Foreshore. Ride on the RPC or F470 Zodiacs,
go for a paddle on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, bring
your beach shoes to go rock-hopping and explore the coral
and rock pools, and share a bbq lunch with us.
Stay tuned to our members-only Facebook page to keep upto-date
with future events this year. Please also check out
our website, https://sites.google.com/view/pilbara-regimentfamily-group/home,
for more information about the Pilbara.
C O N T A C T
Kylie Thompson,
Community Support Coordinator
sites.google.com/view/pilbara-regimentfamily-group/home
NETWORK TINDAL
Network Tindal is a Defence Community Group, here
to support ADF members and their families posted to
RAAF Base Tindal. Our aim is to improve wellbeing
and assist in reducing the impact of defence-life
challenges, by promoting and facilitating connections
between our members, key services and the wider
community. We are run by a team of enthusiastic
volunteers and one employee, who are committed to
making Tindal postings a unique and enjoyable
experience.
Following our November AGM, Laura Van Kraay has
taken on the role of Chairperson of Network
Tindal’s committee: “I am excited for the year ahead in
my new role as Chairperson on the Network Tindal
committee. I look forward to welcoming new friends to the
community and continuing making memories with our
current friends.”
As Vice Chairperson, Natasha Reece will be using her
experience to support Laura as she takes the reins for
2024. Joining them to round out the Executive
Committee is Emily Banks as Treasurer, Jodie Rhone as
Secretary and Frank Borton as Public Officer. Samantha
Schultz will continue on as the Community Support
Coordinator.
We started the year with some activities on offer for
kids during school holidays, including Darren from
Top End Rhythm Academy facilitating an
“Empowering Rhythms” drumming workshop at the
Network Tindal Community House. We also
collaborated with DMFS Tindal to entertain families
with a Skate Day at The Y Katherine. These activities
provided kids with the chance to make new friends or
catch up with old ones before beginning the new
school year.
Network Tindal will continue to offer a range of
no-cost or low-cost regular activities this year,
targeting a variety of ages and interests.
The proposed activities include:
Bubs & Bumps Adults Creative Craft
Playgroup
Tindal Teens
Fitness classes
War Gamers
Kids Crafternoons
Social Stitchers
Cars & Coffee mornings
Community Garden Catch
ups and more.
We are currently planning a number of upcoming
events:
★ Annual Welcome to Tindal Cocktail Party -
February 17th
★ A fun-filled Easter Eggstravaganza - March 31st
Plus, special events for Mother’s Day, Father’s
Day, Halloween and Christmas, Men’s and Ladies’
events, as well as cultural activities in the local
area are also in our plans for this year.
The Network Tindal Community House is a
fantastic resource for the RAAF Base Tindal
Community. In addition to the activities on offer
there, the Community House is available for
members to book for private events. We also
have a range of items members are able to
borrow, from a slushy machine, popcorn
machine, snow cone machines or smoker, to
regular kitchen appliances, kids play equipment,
tables and chairs.
EASY EASTER CRAFT
Cut out a circle, oval and
bunny ears from white
paper or card. Cut out
some egg shapes with
coloured card.
Decorate the eggs and
bunny face with pens or
pencils.
Glue the shapes on to the
white circle and add
ribbons or other
embellishments to create
your own Easter wreath!
C O N T A C T
Sam Schultz,
Network Tindal Coordinator
@NetworkTindalBuddies on Facebook
For those posted to Tindal, you can find us
through the Network Tindal Buddies Facebook
group, or email networktindal@gmail.com for
more information.
30 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 31

PRINCES TRUST AUSTRALIA
Beyond Service Awards Finalist Karyn Hinder
When Karyn Hinder decided to leave full-time military
service, she knew she wanted to help people.
And it was the potential she saw in her fellow veterans
that inspired her to start Working Spirit, a registered
charity to help veterans find employment.
Karyn joined the Australian Defence Force 30 years
ago, serving in the Australian Army and Royal
Australian Air Force across the ranks of both enlisted
and officer.
More recently, she handed back her commission to
become a reservist Sergeant at ADF Careers in Perth,
but most of her time is taken up with growing
Working Spirit.
The 52-year-old said the idea for the charity was
sparked after watching a fellow veteran go from top of
the game to not doing well at all after medically
discharging.
“I come from a recruitment background in defence,
I've got an admin background and I've worked with
some fantastic men and women throughout my
career,” she said.
“I thought, well, wouldn't it be good if there was a
business where I could help veterans into
employment?”
In 2016 Karyn took part in what was then known as
the Prince’s Trust Lead Your Own Business program,
where she developed the idea for Working Spirit.
Soon after she helped her first veteran find a job.
That spark of an idea that was Working Spirit was
fanned into a flame by that first success. But there have
been challenges along the way. Karyn said fighting for
funding was one of the biggest struggles she faced.
“And if I can be 100 per cent honest, being a female in
the male dominated recruitment area for veterans, it's
like I'm always at the boardroom door but they won't
let me in,” she said.
“But at the same time, it gives me fire to go, well, I'll
prove you wrong.”
Today Working Spirit has helped more than 300
veterans find employment and last year Karyn was
able to hire her first two employees, thanks to
ongoing funding from the Anzac Grant.
At the end of 2022, Working Spirit also launched its
Transition Employment Portal, which links veterans and
employers while protecting the identity of the veteran.
Karyn said veterans are given a unique ID and their
contact details are only supplied to a potential
employer once the veteran has agreed to connect with
the company. The portal also caters for medically
transitioning veterans.
“Veterans can tick family-friendly hours, limited working
hours, and the company might see they can only work
one hour a day, but they won't know that the veteran
has been medically discharged,” Karyn said.
Looking to the future, Karyn said she wanted to
expand Working Spirit further.
“I want to be the Trivago for veteran recruitment,” she
said.
Karyn said she was grateful and humbled to be a finalist
in the New Mission Award category of the Prince’s
Trust Australia Beyond Service Awards.
“The Lead Your Own Business Program, now
Enterprise for Veterans, changed my life,” she said.
This story was written by Courtney Snowden,
freelance copywriter and current serving ADF spouse,
based in Queensland.
An initiative of the Prince’s Trust Australia Enterprise
programme, the Beyond Service Awards are designed
to celebrate the entrepreneurial achievements of
Australia’s veteran and family business community.
The 2023 Beyond Service Awards are proudly
sponsored by Gold Sponsor Commonwealth Bank of
Australia, and Silver Sponsor Saab Australia.
For further information, contact Prince’s Trust Australia
via email at: media@princes-trust.org.au.
About Karyn
Karyn is a finalist for the 2023 Beyond
Service Awards – New Mission Award,
proudly sponsored by Saab Australia.
Previous Awards:
• Prime Ministers Veteran Award
Winner 2021 - Excellence in
Supporting Veteran Employment
• Women in Defence Award Winner -
People and Culture 2020
• Defence Industry Awards Finalist
2019, 2020, 2021, 2023
Visit: www.princes-trust.org.au
ENTREPRENEUR -
CREATIVE
MONEY
MAKING
IDEAS FOR UNDER 16s
What can you do if you have a “wish list” item and need
the $$$ to buy it?
Are you too young to get a paying job? But, not too young that you
can make your own money??
This page is for you!
For some of these ideas you may need a parent/carer to help you
get started. Once you know what you want to offer, think about the
right price to achieve it.
Next steps are to advertise what you are offering; you can organise
a flyer drop, door to door knocking, advertise through local
community pages on social media or local noticeboards.
CREATIVE MONEY MAKING IDEAS:
Collect cans/bottles - collect bottles and cans to recycle for 10c per
item. Make sure that you remove lids from bottles beforehand.
Washing cars - this can be lucrative business once you establish
your supplies and start door knocking. If you do a great job, you will
get repeat customers!
Dog walking or pet sitting - this idea has no set-up costs, however
you will need to consider the size of the dogs you look after, your
comfort level with the dog, recall training and your ability to handle
the dog in stressful situations. Your parent/carer may need to help
you establish a relationship with each dog.
Upcycle items - if you like renovating old furniture, you may
consider finding some unwanted household items that need sanding
and repainting, then add up your costs and resell for a profit.
Reinvest the profits to purchase more materials and furniture to
grow your business.
Yard Services - this can be as easy as raking leaves, weeding,
trimming hedges and watering plants. Only work on ground level,
do not operate power tools and only work for people you know
and trust.
Create a blog or YouTube channel - for tech savvy kids, creating
videos can be a great enterprise! The minimum age to create a
YouTube account is 13 years old.
Card and invitation making - get creative with paper craft and
personalised cards and invites.
Jewellery making or sewing garments - you can be creative and
make a profit from selling your creations. Look at selling online or at
local markets!
Remember to always stay safe, don’t enter an unfamiliar home and
always talk with your caregiver about your ideas and creating a plan.
Written by Amanda Letcher
Community Contributor
The Top Ender Magazine
32 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 33

Home to the famous barramundi, the Northern Territory
is widely regarded as Australia’s top fishing destination for
hooking one of these iconic tropical fish species.
The Million Dollar Fish competition was first introduced in
2015 to boost visitation and to give fishos the chance to
reel in prize-tagged barramundi.
Renowned as Australia’s richest fishing competition,
Million Dollar Fish continues to grow in size and value
with more prize-tagged fish released each year.
Barramundi are tagged and released right across the
Territory in five main fishing regions including Arnhem
Land, Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine and the Tiwi Islands.
Since the competition launched, dozens of fishos from
around Australia have cashed in by reeling in tagged
barramundi, and hundreds more have won epic prizes
from competition partners.
SEASON 9
Registrations for Season 9 are open now!
HURRY! Season
ends 31 st March
2023!
If you catch a tagged fish, you must
take 3 photos of the fish and call
1800 077 001.
Do not remove the red tag from the
fish. You will need to quote the
unique code on the tag for further
instructions on how to register the
claim. Please keep in mind that your
catch is still confidential and that
contacting media may result in your
prize money being forfeited.
NEIGHBOUR DAY
27 MARCH
Neighbour Day was bought about after the remains an
elderly lady were found insider her home after she lay
deceased and forgotten by family, neighbours and friends
for two years!
Recognising the impact of loneliness and lack of social
connection, Neighbour Day reminds us all to check in
on our neighbours. Make every day neighbour day and
be the best neighbour you can be!
What can you do to be a great neighbour?
Welcome new neighbours
with a little homemade gift
Say “hi” or give a wave!
Encourage your kids to get
to know their kids
Check in with them - “are
you ok?”
Have a community
gathering
Be friendly
https://neighbourday.org/
Ask them around for coffee
or BBQ
Mow their nature strip!
Pull the bins in
Keep an open eye; if
something doesn’t seem
right, check it out
Exchange phone numbers
just in case
The odds of catching the Million Dollar Fish have never
been better! Season 9 kicked off on 1 October 2023
and will run until 31 March 2024 and there are plenty of
ways to win!
This season we released two barra carrying a milliondollar
tag and 100 barra carrying $10,000 tags. However,
as part of our Merry Fishmas campaign we upgraded a
$10,000 fish to a million-dollar fish. Combined with the
million-dollar fish released from Seasons 1 – 8, which all
remain active for Season 9 – there are now 12 fish worth
a million bucks!
For every $10,000 fish caught, an additional $1,000 will be
donated to one of the official Million Dollar Fish Season 9
Charity Partners.
Make sure you’re signed up!
Million Dollar Fish also features a Lucky Prize Pool. Just by
registering, participants have the chance to win great
prizes as part of the Random Prize Draw every month.
Source: https://milliondollarfish.com.au/competition
NATIONAL
RIDE2SCHOOL DAY
22 MARCH
https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/rides-andevents/ride2school/ride2school-day/
National Ride2School Day is Australia’s biggest celebration of
active travel and one of the best days on the school calendar. It
is a day full of fun and colour where students, teachers and
parents discover the joy of riding and kick-start healthy habits
for the future.
Over the past 40 years the number of children who are
physically active everyday has significantly dropped. In the 1970s,
eight out of ten students rode or walked to school but today
that number has dropped to just two out of ten.
Registrations are open for Bicycle Network's National
Ride2School Day in March 2024, when hundreds of thousands
of students around the country are expected to ride, scoot,
skate or walk to school.
Bicycle Network's Ride2School team works year-round to
equip students with bike riding skills and healthy habits that last
a lifetime.
The stage is now set for the 2024 edition on Friday 22 March.
More than 870 schools and 360,000 students took part in
National Ride2School Day in 2023. Overcrowded bike sheds,
proud parents and celebratory breakfasts were the result across
the country.
34 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 35

NEW DIGS FOR LEGACY NT
Legacy Northern Territory have been busily planning for the redevelopment
of Legacy House at 11 Nemarluk Drive.
As the recipients of two generous bequests, the building
redevelopment project had been taken on with gusto by H&C
Constructions. The old building was removed late last year and the
new buildings which were constructed off site, will be put in place
post wet-season.
The new and improved Legacy House will host an office space
and community / function area for Legatees and Beneficiaries to
access.
We would like to thank our kind hosts of the last 12 months,
Anglicare, who have welcomed us into their office space with
opens arms.
We are very excited about our eminent move and new space.
Written by Suzi Spedding
Project Manager
Legacy NT
WIN
for
Find and count all the GREEN Easter bunnies in this
edition of the Top Ender and you could win one of
three chocolate gift vouchers valued at $50 each
from Pure Indulgence Fine Chocolates, Darwin.
ENTER NOW AT
THETOPENDERMAGAZINE.ORG.AU/WIN
TERMS: Valued at $50 per winner. Images for illustrative purposes only. Open to Top End based Defence members, veterans and their
immediate families. Closes 10 March 2024. Winners for each prize will be drawn at random. Winners will be notified by email/phone
and announced in the next edition of The Top Ender. Enter online by visiting www.thetopendermagazine.org.au/win
WIN
for
Valentines
Celebrate love with this Date Night package including;
♥ $200 Voucher for a stay at Cullen Bay Resorts
♥ $50 Voucher towards dinner at Lola’s Pergola
♥ $50 Voucher for chocolates from Pure Indulgence Fine
Chocolates, Darwin.
ENTER NOW AT
THETOPENDERMAGAZINE.ORG.AU/WIN
TERMS: Prize pack valued at $300. Images for illustrative purposes only, vendors providing prizes are subject
to change. Open to Top End based Defence members, veterans and their immediate families aged 18 and
up. Closes 10 February 2024. Winner will be drawn at random. Winner will be notified by email/phone and
announced in the next edition of The Top Ender. Enter online by visiting www.thetopendermagazine.org.
au/win
36 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 37

WORLD WETLANDS DAY
World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2
February every year.
Wetlands are important because 40% of the world’s
plant and animal species live or breed in wetlands and
over 100,000 freshwater species have been identified in
wetlands.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Coastal wetlands are among the most biologically
diverse places on earth
• Coral Reef and Mangrove forest protect coastlines
from storm surges
• Wetlands are vanishing three times faster than forests
with 35% disappearing since the 1970s. The causes
of wetland loss include:
◇ Drainage and infilling for agriculture and
construction
◇ Pollution
◇ Overexploitation of resources including
overfishing
◇ Invasive species
◇ Climate change
A staggering 25% of wetland species are considered to
be threatened with extinction, including water birds,
freshwater dependent mammals, marine turtles, and
coral reef building species.
Window on the Wetlands
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Charles Darwin National Park
Casuarina Coastal Reserve
Holmes Jungle Nature Park
DARWIN
Berry Springs Nature Park
Territory Wildlife Park
Manton Dam Recreation Area
Litchfield National Park
Channel Point
Coastal Reserve
Douglas River Esplanade
Conservation Area
Howard Springs
Nature Park
Fogg Dam
Conservation Reserve
Stuart Highway
Tjuwaliyn (Douglas)
Hot Springs Park
Butterfly Gorge Nature Park
Window on the Wetlands
Mary River
National Park
Arnhem Highway
Umbrawarra Gorge
Nature Park
To
Katherine
For more information about NT Parks and Wildlife -
https://nt.gov.au/parks
Sources: https://nt.gov.au/environment/soil-land-vegetation/importantwetlands
& https://nt.gov.au/parks & https://www.
australianenvironmentaleducation.com.au/environmental-education/worldwetlands-day/
NT WETLANDS
Wetlands are an important environmental feature in most
parts of the Northern Territory (NT). They support a wide
diversity of plants and animals, some of which are found
nowhere else. They also provide important ecosystem
services, such as absorbing the impacts of floods and
improving water quality.
There are many different sorts of wetlands, including coastal
salt marshes, mangrove swamps, freshwater lakes and
swamps, floodplains, freshwater ponds, springs, and saline
lakes. Wetlands can be permanent, seasonal or intermittent,
and they can be artificial, such as dams or sewerage ponds.
WINDOW ON THE WETLANDS - the highest point on
the lower Adelaide River floodplain.
KAKADU NATIONAL PARK - The most important
feature of the Kakadu National Park Ramsar site is that it
includes nearly all of the catchment of the very large
Alligator rivers system and the top of the Mary River
catchment.
COBOURG PENINSULA - the only site in Australia where
leatherback turtles regularly come ashore to lay eggs.
EARTH HOUR
23 MARCH 8:30 - 9:30 PM
Earth Hour is coming up soon!
This year, Earth Hour will be Saturday the 23 of March
between 8:30 – 9:30pm (Central Australia Time)
This Earth Hour, we're calling on Australians everywhere
to sign up to switch off and join a worldwide community
of millions supporting stronger action on climate change.
It’s never been more critical to come together to protect
our world than at this moment. Climate change is
impacting our precious environment right now. We’ve
watched Australian communities and wildlife endure
raging bushfires and devastating floods in quick succession.
We still have time to make a difference for the planet
we call home - whether you’re an individual, school,
business or community, we all have the power to Shape
Our Future.
Some of the simple switches you can make to help our
planet include, switching to solar power, switching your
ride or just switching off your lights for Earth Hour to
show your support.
Will you switch off this year?
#ShapeOurFuture
https://www.earthhour.org.au
NATIONAL EMPLOYER
SUPPORT AWARDS
NT employers recognised at the National
Employer Support Awards.
The annual Defence National Employer Support Awards
recognised 44 employers of Australian Defence Force
(ADF) reservists in Sydney on 21 November.
Employers were recognised for their support to reservists
working within their organisation, including the release of
employees for periods of service where they undertake
work for Defence.
Patrol Boat Group Headquarters, nominated by LAC
Robert Lund (13 Squadron) were proud winners of the
Public Sector (Defence) category. Commanding Officer 13
Squadron, WGCDR Jim Collisson stated that “ Our
reserve members are a key part of the team and are
integrated into everything that the RAAF does at RAAF
Darwin. We are very lucky to have a large pool of
outstanding RAAF reservists in the NT and Number 13
Squadron at RAAF Darwin regularly uses reserve staff
from all walks of life who are critical to ensuring that RAAF
Base Darwin maintains capability and effectiveness,
regardless of the demands placed upon the airbase. RAAF
reserves are an essential key to enabling Squadrons to
surge and contract as Joint and Service demands require.”
Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox,
AO, CSC, thanked the civilian employers for their
support and the contribution it makes to the Defence
mission.
“Defence recognises the vital contribution of ADF
reservists, who are highly skilled and disciplined,”
Lieutenant General Fox said.
“Support and understanding from the employers of
reservists enables the delivery of reserve capability and we
couldn’t do what we need to without them.
“Having workplaces that show flexibility to reservists
ensures the Australian Defence Force can call on our
reservists to respond quickly and provide vital capability
where it is most needed.
“I thank the award-winning organisations and all of the
nominees for their continued support of our ADF
reservists.”
Photo: Proud winners - CAPT Melanie Verho & LAC
Robert Lund with Head JSSD MAJGEN Douglas Laidlaw
Photo: NT Representatives at the National Employer Support Awards 2023
The 2023 National Employer Support Award
winners are:
– Private Sector (Large): Ensign Laboratories, Victoria
– Private Sector (Medium): Protegas, Queensland
– Private Sector (Small): Functional AF, Western
Australia
– Public Sector: Queensland Police Service – Bob
Atkinson (BAOCC), Queensland
– Public Sector: Fire and Rescue NSW, New South
Wales
– Public Sector – Defence: Patrol Boat Group
Headquarters, Northern Territory
– Not for Profit: St John WA, Western Australia
– Honourable mentions went to:
– Private Sector (Large): Symbion, Queensland
– Private Sector (Medium): Talent Quarter, New
South Wales
– Private Sector (Small): Humanihut, South
Australia and Legear, Victoria
– Public Sector: Tasmania Government Department
of Justice, Tasmania
– Not-For-Profit: Fit to Drive Foundation
Incorporated, Victoria
To nominate your civilian employer for an Employer
Support Award in 2024 scan the QR code or visit:
www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au
You can also reach out directly to the NT/Kimberley
Office: ADFRES.NT@defence.gov.au
Written by Judith Carson
Engagement Manager – NT/K
Australian Defence Force Reserves and
Employer Support (ADFRES)
References: www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au ;
NT/Kimberley Office: ADFRESNT@defence.gov.au
38 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 39

t
TRACY VILLAGE
CRICKET CLUB
9
Daly St Stuart Hwy
65
66
Day St
McLachlan St
McMinn St
Woods St
1
FIND MORE STREET ART IN WOOLNER,
FANNIE BAT, NIGHTCLIFF,COCONUT GROVE,
FORESHORE, RAPID CREEK, WULAGI, PARAP,
CASUARINA, STUART PARK, CULLEN BAY
AND THE WATERFRONT.
Shepherd St
Lindsay St
2
Garramilla Bvd
Manton St
Gardiner St
Knuckey St
56
2023
ARTISTS
1. DREZ
2. ADNATE
3. Kitt Bennett
4. Mary Franklin
5. Aurora Campbell
6. Shona Lee
7. Trent Lee
8. Mayonaize
9. Filthy Ratbag
DARWIN CBD
Foelsche St
Woods St
Litchfield St
63
2017 - 2022
DARWIN CBD
33. Matt ‘Blue’ Selwyn
1. Jesse Bell
34. Marnie Jay
2. Jesse Bell
35. Ryan Medlicott
3. Lisa King
36. Miss Polly
4. Jason Lee
37. Taylor Smith
5. Jordan Conrad
38. Emma Murphy
6. Cam Scale & Les
39. Miss Polly
Huddleston
40. Andrew Bourke
7. Caleb Dude
& Jesse Bell
8. Tayla Broekman
41. Wendy Yunupingu
9. B4mble
42. Sol Veins
10. Jason Lee
43. CTO
11. Colin Holt
44. Sofles
12. Kaff-Eine
45. Phibs
13. Odeith
46. Tom Gerrard
14. DVATE & Jesse Bell
47. Hannah Illingworth
15. Jason Lee
48. Jason Lee
16. Justine McAllister
49. Luna Tunes
X House of Darwin
17. George Rose
50. Makatron & Sped
18. Hafleg
51. Elle
19. Vincent Poke
52. Ryan Medlicott
20.Miss Polly
53. Vexx
21. Loretta Lizzio
& Shilo McNamee
54. Phibs & Hafleg
64
Cavenagh St
Cavenagh St
62 61
59
60
22. Hafleg & Trent Lee
23. Miss Polly
55. Hafleg
56. Riece Ranson
Whitfield St
Smith St
55 54
4
3
Searcy St
Edmunds St
5
6
53
Knuckey St
52
50 49
51 48
45
47 46
57
44
43
Austin Ln
42
The Mall
58
41
40
39
38 37
36 35
Bennett St
Harry Chan Ave
Smith St
24. Dion Beasley
25. Miss Polly
& Shona-Lee Griffen
26. Jesse Bell
27. PRESSPlay
28. Franck Gohier
57. Andrew Bourke
& Jesse Bell
58. Catherine Miles
59. Jesse Bell
60. Denise & Tibby Quall
61. Kaff-Eine
1
3
Peel St
34
33
32 31 30
29
Shadforth Ln
28
25 24 23 22
27 26
6
Nuttall Pl
7
21
20
19 18
17
16
t
West Ln
14
15
kara Tce
13 12 11
7
10
9
St
Ardock Cres
8
29. Shilo McNamee
& Roxanne
30. Marita Albers
31. Ciella Lee
32. Denise Quall
62. Caleb Dude
63. George Rose
64. Lisa King
65. Kitt Bennett
66. Colin Holt
Mitchell St
Tracy Village Cricket Club would like to invite
Defence Members and their families to play Cricket
in the 2024 Darwin Cricket Season.
2
4
5
8
Knuckey St
Esplanade
Based in Lyons and close to Muirhead, Tracy Village
Cricket Club has the best training facility in town and
strives to provide opportunities for everyone in our
community to participate in healthy, safe and
inclusive cricket activities in a fun and family
orientated environment.
The club is managed by dedicated volunteer staff, all
of whom tirelessly provide their skills, time and
assistance to ensure the club can offer a variety of
structured programs.
On the field, our short and long term goals remain
the development of our Junior Program, as well as
increasing participation of women in cricket. We
have a Junior Coordinator and Junior Coaching
Coordinator that provide an organised and
structured environment for children to play
cricket supported by their family in roles such
as coaches, team managers,
scorers and much more.
You can reach out to Tracy
Village Cricket Club on 0418
817 825 or
admin@tracyvillagecc.com.au.
Our Facebook Page will also
provide all the latest
information https://
www.facebook.com/
TracyVillageCC/
WORLD’S
GREATEST SHAVE
MARCH
Blood cancer is Australia’s hidden cancer crisis.
Every day, 53 Aussies are diagnosed with blood cancer,
and 16 will lose their life.
People with blood cancer need you now more than
ever.
You have the power to take action and raise crucial
funds that will give families facing blood cancer all the
support and information they need – while driving
breakthrough research projects discovering better
ways to diagnose and treat blood cancer.
By signing up to World’s Greatest Shave, you’ll be
changing the lives of those who need your help most.
And it might change yours along the way.
Now that’s something worth raising your clippers,
scissors or hair dye to.
The official World’s Greatest Shave event is March
every year, however you can raise funds at any time
throughout the year.
https://worldsgreatestshave.com/
WORK
WITH US
VOLUNTEERING WITH US
We always welcome new volunteers at The Top Ender Magazine.
There is no time obligation, we only ask that you join us for our
committee meetings online or at our offices wherever possible. You
can input as much or as little as you like and will be supported
along the way.
The Top Ender is calling for volunteers to nominate for the
committee. The following roles are or will soon be available:
★ Public Officer
★ Vice Chair
★ General Member
For more information, including the unique benefits available to our
volunteers, please visit www.thetopendermagazine.org.au/volunteer
40 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 41

NT SPORTS VOUCHERS
MEET OUR NEW DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR –
MARGARET RAY-TAYLOR!
I have had such a wonderful time getting to know
the defence families here at Good Shepherd after
having taken over the role of Defence School
Mentor (DSM) in Term 3 of 2023.
There’s always something going on at one of our three
campuses in Howard Springs, Palmerston and Leanyer,
which I alternate between each week. We have been
running activities throughout recess and lunch including
colouring in, playing board games and making
aromatherapy playdough. Our Howard Springs Junior
School students have also been busy making their very
own DCACs, which give them special access to the
official Good Shepherd Defence Kids Club!
We understand that the impacts of the defence lifestyle
on children and families are unique, and we endeavour to
educate the College community on the challenges defence
students face. I’m currently working with our students to
create video interviews documenting their experiences
as a child in a defence family, which we hope to share
with the other school students and the wider
community later this year. We’ll keep you posted via our
College social media channels!
I’ve truly had a fantastic time learning all about the defence
students and their families at the College and I’m really
looking forward to the many exciting activities we have
planned.
If your child attends Good Shepherd Lutheran
College and you are interested in participating in the
DSM Program, please get in touch via email
(margaret.ray@ntschools.net) or contact the College
by phone: 08 8983 0300.
I am currently available at each campus as follows:
HOWARD SPRINGS CAMPUS
Every Friday
8:30am - 2pm
PALMERSTON
CAMPUS
Thursdays on odd
weeks (weeks 1, 3, 5,
7 and 9 of term)
8:30am - 2pm
LEANYER CAMPUS
Thursdays on even weeks
(weeks 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 of term)
8:30am - 2pm
If these dates/times don’t work well for your child,
please get in contact with me to discuss how we can
best accommodate them.
I very much look forward to continuing to get to
know our fabulous Good Shepherd defence families
and working together to provide the best possible
support for our students.
Written by Margaret Ray-Taylor
Defence School Mentor
Good Shepherd Lutheran College
margaret.ray@ntschools.net
Children living in an urban area are eligible to receive
two $100 sport vouchers each year.
To be eligible, they must be enrolled in school,
which includes:
• transition to year 12
• home-schooled children.
You can use the vouchers for sport, recreation and
cultural activities. They can also be used for
swimming and music lessons within school hours.
NT SPORTS VOUCHER
Parents or carers need to apply for vouchers online
each semester.
You can apply online through GrantsNT. If you don't
have an account, you will need to register.
GrantsNT lets you:
• request vouchers
• see which activity providers are available
• keep track of where you've used your vouchers.
You can apply any time during the semester –
applications open January 2024 and close May 2024.
WHAT YOU CAN'T USE VOUCHERS FOR
You can't use a sport voucher:
• for activities or programs that are part of the
school curriculum or during school hours -
except swimming and music
• for activities or programs that are part of the
school curriculum or during school hours
• for after-school care services and tutors
• for school-run activities
• to travel to and from competitions
• to buy equipment or uniforms from a retailer
• for multiple activity providers
• for payments to activity providers who are not
registered.
You can't get cash refunds for all or part of the value
of the sport voucher.
You can't transfer your voucher to another child.
WHAT YOU CAN USE VOUCHERS FOR
You can use a sport voucher to pay for:
• after-school, weekend sport and school holiday
recreation and cultural activities, including:
• programs
• lessons
• classes
• workshops
• special events
• festivals
• music or instrumental lessons and swimming
programs delivered by registered activity
providers during school hours
• vouchers must be redeemed by the registered
activity provider, not the school
• registration and insurance
• membership fees
• a uniform for an activity your child is registered
for that is purchased through the same activity
provider including:
• team uniforms
• costumes for performances
• activity clothing
• equipment related to the program or activity
your child is registered for when purchased
through the same activity provider including:
• sports and recreation equipment
• instruments
• instructional books
• music scores and scripts.
CONTACT:
SPORT.VOUCHER@NT.GOV.AU
1800 817 860
Extracted from NT GOV WEBSITE
https://nt.gov.au/leisure/sport/sport-and-swimvouchers/sport-voucher-scheme-urban/get-sportvouchers-for-your-child
42 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 43

ADF Chaplains in the NT
Navy On-call: 0409 662 823
Kelvin Harris HMAS Coonawarra
Anglican
0401 075 488
Esava Koro HMAS Coonawarra
Seventh Day Adventist
0423 451 989
Shaun Foster Patrol Boat Chaplain
Australian Christian Churches
0400 514 375
Army On-call: 0427 713 963
Glen Elsegood 8/12 Regiment
Anglican
0429 345 167
Garth Mayger Regional Support
Catholic
0409 778 462
Kelly Horne 1CER
Australian Christian Churches
0418 428 337
Chris Lindsay 1CSSB
Presbyterian
0419 869 187
Brendan Quirk HQ1 BDE
Catholic
0407 283 050
TINNITUS
AWARENESS WEEK
5 - 11 FEBRUARY
One in three people in Australia live with tinnitus and one in six
experience it constantly.
In 2017, the International Tinnitus Journal reported that 45% of
tinnitus sufferers experience anxiety and 33% have major
depression. Yet, despite its ubiquity, tinnitus is poorly understood and
frequently underestimated as a cause of suffering and distress. If you
experience constant humming or 'ringing’ in your ears with no
external noise causing the sound, it may be time to consult your
doctor.
https://www.tinnitusaustralia.org.au/tinnitusawarenessweek/
CHINESE
NEW YEAR
Chinese New Year will take place on the 10th of February 2024,
with the beginning of the year of the Dragon. Celebrations will
last from the 9th of February (New Year’s Eve) until the 15th
day of the New Year.
Have you heard about the NT Chinese Museum?
The NT Chinese Museum provides a comprehensive account of
the Chinese people in the Top End of the Territory from 1874
to the present day through photographs, memorabilia, heritage
objects and family history.
The Museum presents a story of grit and determination and the
contribution of the Chinese people to the development of the
Northern Territory. A particular focus is the impact of World
War II: the bombing of Darwin, the fate of China Town and the
contribution by the Darwin Chinese people in their service to
Australia.
The NT Chinese Museum welcomes school groups and contact
by researchers.
Shane Rogerson 5RAR
Anglican
0408 684 783
Anthony Doyle 1AVN
Catholic
0429 891 274
Airforce Darwin On-call:
0477 308 064
Karen Haynes RAAF Darwin
Baptist
0408 765 660
Airforce Tindal On-call:
0427 890 054
Christopher Buckley-Wilkshire RAAF Tindal
Churches of Christ
0437 702 645
Peter Taylor RAAF Tindal
Anglican
0423 686 109
All three services provide a 24/7 on-call number for
emergencies. Each Unit/Ship/Base has its own chaplain
who can assist. If you chaplain is not available, please
contact the on-call number for your Service.
Denominational or faith-specific ministry can be
arranged as required.
WORLD DOWN
SYNDROME DAY
21 MARCH
March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day, which has been officially
recognised by the United Nations since 2012. On this day, people all
around the world celebrate the lives and achievements of people
with Down syndrome.
March 21st provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the
rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome around the
world. We can do this by wearing bright and colourful socks! You
can wear official Lots of Socks designs, branded socks, or any other
pair of socks to make a statement: bright socks, long socks or
printed socks.
Ask your child’s teacher or school to join in by holding a ‘Lots of
Socks’ fundraising event. The idea behind the Lots of Socks
initiative is that all types, shapes, sizes of the same thing can be
unique in their own way, and yet do the same thing. Lots of Socks
is a campaign to create conversation about diversity, uniqueness,
inclusion and acceptance.
You can find out more about Lots of Socks day and fundraising via
the Down Syndrome Australia website:
https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/
Stay up to date with Chinese New Year
events and activities!
DarwinChineseNewYearFestival
Join in the family fun day for Darwin's community
to participate and experience Chinese New Year
cultural activities and entertainment. Come down
and enjoy the special Chinese dishes on offer and
learn finer points of Chinese cooking from local
celebrity chefs!
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, contact:
museum@chungwahnt.asn.au
Admission fees
Adult $4.00
Concession $3.00
Children $2.00
Family (2+2) $10.00
https://www.chungwahnt.asn.au
Chung Wah Society
25 Woods St,
Darwin City NT 0800,
Australia
44 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 45

GROUP PROGRAM SCHEDULE
JANUARY – JUNE 2024
NORTHERN TERRITORY
GROWING MINDS FDC
Growing Minds Family Day Care is a new early childhood
service in the Darwin and Palmerston areas. We are
seeking qualified Early Childhood Educators to operate
from Family Day Care (FDC) within their own homes,
providing education and care for young children.
As a FDC educator with Growing Minds, you will be
personally supported and mentored through the whole
process of starting up your own FDC business:
RELAXATION AND STRESS MANAGEMENT
DARWIN
9 th February 0900 – 1700
1 Day
UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY
KATHERINE
14 th & 15 th February 0900 – 1700
2 Days
SLEEPING BETTER
DARWIN
27 th February 0900 – 1300
1/2 Day
SLEEPING BETTER
KATHERINE
6 th March 0900 – 1300
1/2 Day
DOING ANGER DIFFERENTLY
DARWIN
20 th & 21 st March 0900 – 1700
2 Days
UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY
DARWIN
27 th & 28 th March 0900 – 1700
2 Days
RELAXATION AND STRESS MANAGEMENT
DARWIN
4 th April 0900 – 1700
1 Day
DOING ANGER DIFFERENTLY
KATHERINE
17 th & 18 th April 0900 – 1700
2 Days
RELAXATION AND STRESS MANAGEMENT
KATHERINE
2 nd May 0900 – 1700
1 Day
MANAGING PAIN
DARWIN
8 th & 9 th May 0900 – 1700
2 Days
HARMONY DAY
21 MARCH
Harmony Day celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity.
It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of
belonging for everyone.
We celebrate Australian multiculturalism, based on the
successful integration of migrants into our community
and our cultural diversity.
To find out about local NT Harmony Week activities
and events, visit: https://www.harmony.gov.au/events/
landing
For a comprehensive calendar of cultural and religious
dates, visit: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/
our-portfolios/multicultural-affairs/about-multiculturalaffairs/calendar-of-cultural-and-religious-dates
https://www.harmony.gov.au/events/landing
– guidance with setting up your space
– onboarding and inductions
– access to a waiting list of registered families
– have access to resources, free of charge
– a smooth and straight forward registration process
– after hours support
Contact our team for a confidential discussion:
https://growingmindsfdc.com.au/
info@growingmindsfdc.com.au
Written by Linda Lay
Director
Growing Minds Family Day Care
46 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 47

WHAT IS
CULTURAL
COMPETENCE?
LARRAKIA
PEOPLE
Cultural competence has been a term that is widely
used to describe the ability to understand cultural
differences and develop a positive attitude towards
cultural diversity, including effective cross-cultural
communication skills.
According to the University of Sydney, Professor Juanita
Sherwood, being culturally competent means that you value
diversity within professional and social environments and
respect that collaboration with different cultures provides an
opportunity for innovation and knowledge sharing.
Cultural Competence consists of three essential components
(Browaeys & Price, 2008):
AWARENESS – understanding your own values and
prejudices, and how your view of the world may be different
to others.
RESPECT – acknowledging the importance of cultural diversity
and allowing another person’s culture to be celebrated without
judgement.
RECONCILING – finding ways to work together and
collaborating for success. Using various skills and experiences
to drive performance and work in synergy.
In a diverse organisation like the Australian Army, we
have an opportunity to collaborate with a range of
cultures, learn about other cultures and drive team
performance by utilising the individual skills and
experience of each team member, regardless of
cultural background. Is your workplace culturally-fit?
CULTURAL CHECKLIST FOR LEADERS:
1. Does your team consider cultural factors such as
language, race, customs, family structure, sexual
orientation and community dynamics when
delivering training and activities?
2. Does your team respect the culture, diversity and
rights of First Nations Peoples, including children,
youth and families?
3. Does your team respect religious commitments of
different cultures?
4. Does your team respect and respond to various
culturally defined needs of peers and
subordinates?
5. Does your team interact without prejudice or
judgement of other cultures?
6. Do you support and educate your team in cultural
acceptance?
7. Do you provide opportunities for Welcome to
Country or Acknowledgement of Country
ceremonies?
8. Am I driving a culture of acceptance and
encouragement of diversity and inclusion?
Cultural competence is also the ability to recognise
and celebrate the contributions of various cultures
within the ADF. We remember our First Nations
Peoples and their sacrifices.
Written by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
References:
AIATSIS (Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Studies) - https://aiatsis.gov.au/explore/australias-firstpeoples
Army Indigenous Engagement - https://www.army.gov.au/ourpeople/army-indigenous-community/army-indigenousengagement
Browaeys, M, & Price, R. (2008). Understanding Cross-Cultural
Management. Pearson Education Limited. Essex: England.
Human Rights - https://humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/
FTFATSI.pdf
Sydney University - https://www.sydney.edu.au/nccc/about-us/
what-is-cultural-competence.html
The Larrakia people are the traditional owners of
the Darwin region.
We welcome you to our beautiful land and sea country.
We have a deep, spiritual connection with our country
and are responsible for making sure it is respected by all
those that use it.
WHAT AREA IS LARRAKIA LAND?
The Larrakia people are the traditional owners of the
Darwin region. Our country runs from Cox peninsula in
the west to Gunn Point in the north, Adelaide River in the
east and down to the Manton Dam area southwards.
LARRAKIA HISTORY
The Larrakia had a vibrant traditional society based on our
close relationship with the sea and trade with neighbouring
groups such as the Tiwi, Wagait and Wulna. These groups
shared ceremonies, songlines and intermarried.
When the first settlers arrived in the Darwin area, the
Larrakia provided them with food. Despite conflict and
marginalisation, from the beginning the Larrakia
participated in the cultural life of the early settlement, and
lived in and around the city, before we were moved out
to camps further away from the city. Many popular sites
around Darwin also hold specific meaning for Larrakia
people, such as Stokes Hill, Mindil Beach, Rapid Creek and
Casuarina Beach.
LARRAKIA LAND CLAIM
“You have come by way of the Larrakia Land. You will hear the voice of Larrakia ancestors.
When you leave, the Larrakia message will stay with you.”
- The late Reverend Walter Fejo
The Larrakia have the longest running land claim in the
Northern Territory, the Kenbi Land Claim. The court
found in favour of us, but there has been no transfer of
land ownership. Larrakia’s native title rights were
controversially rejected in 2006. Despite receiving no legal
recognition of continued connection to country, the
Larrakia people continue to care for our land and water.
We continue to preserve our stories and culture, making
sure they are passed on to the next generation.
LARRAKIA PEOPLE TODAY
Today, we are a vibrant Aboriginal nation numbering
around 2,000 people. Larrakia are broadly recognised for
their strengths in performance, music and art. Many
Larrakia have achieved mainstream success as doctors,
lawyers, sportsmen and hold senior positions in
government and other organisations.
Larrakia feel particularly strongly about our role as
Traditional Owners for the Territory’s capital, looking after
visitors to our country. We continue to be active in the
political sphere, but we are also diplomatic, willing to work
with people to achieve the best outcome even from a
position of disadvantage. We aim to foster partnerships
according to the cultural protocols, which we ask you to
understand and respect.
LARRAKIA COMMUNITY & LARRAKIA
NATION
The Larrakia people have made the Larrakia Nation
Aboriginal Corporation our legal representative,
responsible for ensuring that our country and people are
looked after and that we play an active role in the
decisions that affect us. The Larrakia Nation also works on
our behalf developing economic opportunities that create
jobs for Larrakia people or provide funding for projects
that support our people.
Extracted from Larrakia Nation
Website
http://larrakia.com/about/the-larrakia-people/
48 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 49

YOUR LOCAL GUIDE TO
EVERYTHING FAMILY IN DARWIN!
COMMITTEE
NOTICEBOARD
Hi and welcome to Darwin!
My name is Amy Milford and I am the proud founder of Darwin
Family Life which I started back in 2017. I am a long-term
Territorian; I grew up here and now I am raising my family here. I
am a Mumma to four munchkins – my eldest daughter is in
Middle School (years 7-9), my twin boys are 11 and my
youngest daughter is 7. I call my life “my happy crazy chaos”.
Darwin is an amazing place to raise kids. The lifestyle, all the
outdoor adventures and there are many free things to do with
kids in Darwin. Darwin Family Life has rounded up a list of FREE
things to do with kids in Darwin for all those families who are new
to Darwin. You can read the full blog of more ideas on the website:
https://www.darwinfamilylife.com.au/top-10-free-things-to-do-with-kidsin-darwin/
HOWARD SPRINGS NATURE PARK
Howards Springs Nature Park is one of my favourite spots to take my kids
swimming. It’s perfect for toddlers and young kids as the man-made rock pools
are shallow and only about knee height on an adult.
There are shade structures over most of the pools. There is also a flying fox
and other playground equipment for the kids, and BBQs if you prefer to cook
or take a picnic lunch for a great day out. Be aware of the ibises as they will try
and steal any food left out! Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect spray. There
are toilet facilities available.
Howard Springs Nature Park is a great place to enjoy wildlife including turtles,
barramundi, file snakes and freshwater fish species.
BECOME A COMMUNITY
CONTRIBUTOR
We welcome all contributions from our
Defence Members and their families.
We’re looking for stories about
Defence life, history, helpful guides to
living in the NT, family
experiences, travel adventures and
$100
COMMUNITY
CONTRIBUTOR
VOUCHER
more. If you have something you’d like to share in
the next edition of The Top Ender, submit it today.
One lucky community contributor will receive a
$100 voucher in each edition!
VOLUNTEERING WITH US
We always welcome new volunteers at The Top Ender
Magazine. There is no time obligation, we only ask that you
join us for our monthly meetings wherever possible. You can
input as much or as little as you like and will be supported
along the way.
For more information, including the unique benefits available
to our volunteers, please visit www.thetopendermagazine.
org.au/volunteer
you're
a winner!
Congratulations to our December/January
Competition Winners:
Facebook Christmas Giveaway
Nicole Horton
Amanda Metcalfe
Kate Wallis
Jess Cleggett
Tanya Roberts
Erin Shepherd
Azeema Perkins
Alison Newman
WIN with Sponsors - Top End
MTA Travel Voucher - Cassie Knight
SHENails Pedicure - Erin Shepherd
Integrity Hair Voucher - Jackie Goodwin
Waterfront Membership Pass
Cody Bradshaw
Officeworks Kid’s Art Pack
Amber Robinson
Open: Daily 7:30 am to 7:00 pm
Address: 465 Howard Springs Rd, Howard Springs
Darwin Family Life is a like a big online community. I run a closed Facebook
group of parents and caregivers called Darwin Family Life Community Hub –
feel free to join, connect with others and ask any questions about Darwin or
family related things.
On my website, I also publish school holiday blog guides for all the fun events
happening around town to keep kids busy, plus other various blogs, a family event
calendar, heaps of info about playgrounds that you can visit and so much more.
Join our newsletter here: https://www.darwinfamilylife.com.au/join-our-newsletter/
Join our Parents Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/
darwinfamilylifecommunityhub
Written by Amy Milford
Founder
Darwin Family Life
https://www.facebook.com/darwinfamilylife
https://www.instagram.com/darwinfamilylife/
www.darwinfamilylife.com.au
TOP
END
JOBS
BOARD
Classified job advertisements are subject to change and may already be
filled at time of print. We encourage you to reach out to the organisation
directly for more information.
JOIN THE DARWIN TEAM - LITTLE WONDERS
Contact: Nicole at www.littlewonders.com.au
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS - DRAGONFLY PLAY & LEARN
Contact: email resume to info@dragonflyplayandleard.com
SEEKING FDC PROVIDERS - GROWING MINDS FAMILY DAY CARE
Contact: enquire at info@growingmindsfdc.com.au
HIRING TUTORS - TUTORING WITH ALEXI
Contact: tutoringwithalexi@gmail.com
PART TIME/CASUAL SWIM INSTRUCTORS - NT SWIM SCHOOL
Contact: Hollie Goodall hollie@hgfitness.com.au
50 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 51

W I N
DONATED BY OUR SPONSOR
KIDS, LET’S GET CREATIVE!
Do you love to draw, paint, sculpture, make or model?
Show us your artistic talents by sending a photo of your
artwork to feature in the next edition of The Top Ender.
One lucky entry will win an art pack valued at $50!
TERMS: Prize Pool valued at up to $50. Open to NT-Based Defence Kids
up to age 17. Closes 10 March 2024. Enter online by visiting www.
thetopendermagazine.org.au/win and submitting an original artwork (e.g.
painting, drawing, sculpture, lego creation, sewing creation etc...). Can’t
attach a photo of your creation to our online form? Email it to us at
creative@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next
edition of The Top Ender.
W I N
1x Waterfront
Membership Family Pass
valued at $125
ENTER NOW AT
THETOPENDERMAGAZINE.ORG.AU/WIN
TERMS: Prize Pool valued at $125. Open to NT-Based Defence
Members, Veterans, and their dependants. Closes 10 March 2024.
Enter online by visiting www.thetopendermagazine.org.au/win
Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next
edition of The Top Ender.
52 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 53

MAMMALS
OF THE NT
CAT ASSOCIATION NT
There are a high number of endemic mammal species in the
NT, such as the Arnhem rock-rat, black wallaroo, central
rock-rat, carpentarian rock-rat, kakadu dunnart, central
pebble-mound mouse and kakadu pebble-mound mouse, as
well as the bats Taphozous kapalgensis and Hipposideros
diadema inornatus.
Many of these are only found in the western Arnhem Land plateau
and parts of Kakadu National Park. The NT mammals include
about 35 bat species and 25 marine mammals. Among the latter,
there are high numbers of the dugong and snubfin dolphin.
A high number of the Territory's threatened species are mammals.
Many NT mammal species have become extinct either completely,
or within the Territory, over the last 100 years, including the
western quoll, the numbat, desert bandicoot, pig-footed
bandicoot, lesser bilby, brush-tailed bettong, burrowing bettong,
central hare-wallaby, crescent nailtail wallaby and lesser stick-nest
rat.
The red kangaroo in Central Australia and the
agile wallaby in the north are some exceptions
as they are both commonly seen.
Extracted from NT Govt Website
https://nt.gov.au/environment/animals/aboutanimals-in-nt
The Cat Association is dedicated to
responsible cat ownership and ethical
breeding in the Northern Territory.
CANT(Inc.) promotes the health, welfare and wellbeing
of all cats by supporting ethical breeding
practices to ensure the health, quality, temperament
and the long-term betterment of breeds. OUr main
focus is:
• Maintaining a Code of Ethics for Breeders
• Registering Pedigree cats and issuing guidelines
for showing and breeding Pedigree cats.
• Promoting and fostering the showing and
management of domestic cats in the Australian
habitat where they constitute an introduced
species.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
The Cat Association of the Northern Territory is planning to
hold a Catspo on the 16 of March 2024, location to be
advised. Please follow us on social media for event updates.
The purpose for hosting the event is to;
– Raise public awareness of responsible cat ownership.
– Caring for cats in the tropics from a health perspective,
for those new to the NT.
– The importance of desexing your cat to prevent
unwanted litters of kittens.
– Explore possibilities to reduce the number of stray cats
being euthanised each year.
Threatened mammal species in the NT include the golden
bandicoot, marsupial mole, greater bilby, mulgaras and Butler's
dunnart.
Many of the Territory's mammals are nocturnal and shy. Most can
only be spotted with careful study or camping in the bush at night.
• Promoting the humane treatment of feral cats
deemed to be pests by other Government
Agencies.
• Keeping members informed of Australian and
International developments in cat health,
genetics, and breeding through a quarterly
Newsletter.
As a founding member of the Australian Cat
Federation Incorporated, we promote the principals
of that organisation.
We are also involved in Community projects and
Fundraising ventures.
Provide training judges and show stewards for
events and show competitions.
During our years of operation in the NT, the Cat
Fancy is a fun hobby and we have had many ADF
service personnel involved in our events. Please
contact us if you would like more information about
our projects, community resources, events and/or a
copy of our quarterly newsletter.
Championship cats show for pedigree and
domestic cats - 07 April 2024.
The CANT (Inc.) cat shows are friendly and
fun. The cat fancy and cat fanciers are all cat
owners and cat lovers. Cat club kids get to
learn the ropes through our junior exhibitor
program and new cattery breeders can learn
more through CANT (Inc.)’s Judges and
information pamphlets.
Please check our website for further
information about this event: http://www.cant.
asn.au
Written by Julian Schüller
Secretary
Cat Association NT
54 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 55

ALL PETS
ENRICHING YOUR CAT’S ENVIRONMENT
Cats can be happily kept indoors if their environmental
needs are met. There are many benefits to keeping your
cat indoors – they don’t get hit by cars, they don’t get
into fights with neighbourhood cats, and they hunt
less wildlife. Whether your cat is inside all the time,
or only part of the time, enriching their environment
will relieve stress and boredom, and make for a
happier, healthier cat. This can be done in many
ways, and some will suit some cats more than others.
PROVIDE A SAFE PLACE
Every cat needs a safe place where it feels comfortable and
protected. Most cats prefer this place to be big enough to fit
only themselves, have sides, and be raised off the ground.
A box with a hole cut out of it placed in a high place can achieve
this cheaply and easily, other examples include a cat carrier or
raised cat perch. If you have more than one cat there should be
at least one safe place per cat, located away from each other.
Anxious cats should have multiple safe places.
TOYS
Play and predatory behaviours allow cats to
fulfil their natural need to hunt.
Kittens will naturally chase small, fast-moving
objects, and most adult cats will continue to do
so. Objects such as a small ball of wool or
scrunched paper balls work well. Some of the
most enjoyable toys for both people and cats
are the interactive ones - a flexible rod with
a line that ends in something furry or
feathery to engage a cat's prey drive is loved
by most cats. Other interactive toys include
laser pointers that offer cats a spot of light to
chase. Cats need to be able to capture the
“prey” (ie. Toy or laser spot) at least
intermittently to prevent frustration.
If you have more than one cat, remember to
play with them individually. New paper bags
and cardboard boxes provide the inquisitive
cat with something to investigate. Some toys
contain catnip which many cats love. Cat nip,
cat mint and cat grasses can also all be grown
indoors in pots and most cats will love to play
with cat nip and chew on the grasses.
MAKING FEEDING MORE
INTERESTING
Getting your cat to search for food, and
feeding multiple small meals per day can make
feeding more natural and interesting. If dry
food is fed, it could be put in small amounts on
the floor, and moved progressively further
away from the food bowl so that your cat
must search in different areas. Using feeding
toys such as kongs or puzzle feeders can
provide great entertainment for your cat.
PROVIDE HEIGHTS AND A VIEW
Cats love to watch the world go by from a safe place, where
they can see things moving and changing, whether it is people,
animals, or vehicles. Try to provide an area where they can
do this. There are even YouTube videos for cats to
watch!
Cats love to be up high - shelves, high walkways, and cat
trees (tall scratching posts) can be used to help them
achieve this. Cats will often lie for extended periods of time
in small, high areas where they can watch activity below and
feel secure.
TRAINING
Cat can be trained! Using positive reinforcement, cats can be
trained in a very similar way to dogs. Training sessions and
learning new commands will stimulate your cat and add
complexity to their lives. Use small pieces of the tastiest food
and reward the desired behaviour immediately when it
occurs.
SCRATCHING POSTS
Cats can be taught to use scratching posts and not the
furniture for scratching. Use small, tasty treats and praise when
they use the scratching post and cover your furniture with a
non-scratchable surface while they are learning. Place
scratching posts next to resting or sleeping areas, and multiple
scratching posts in different areas can help.
ACCESS TO OUTSIDE
Outdoor enclosures or training your cat to
use a harness for short trips outside
will provide new sights, sounds
and smells and help keep indoor
cats stimulated.
Written by All Pets Veterinarian
allpetsvet.com.au
A COMPANION CAT
For cats that are left on their own for prolonged
periods each day, a feline companion can enrich
their lives, but bringing older cats together is
often difficult and can lead to many stress-related
problems. The younger they are introduced, the
greater the chances of getting along. Getting
littermates gives you the best chances of a pair
getting along. Where other cats are to be
introduced, it is preferable to do so when they
are kittens, and to have them arrive at the
property at the same time.
Make sure that there are multiple resources
(food and water bowls, litter trays) and enough
climbing, hiding and resting areas for all
cats. These resources should be in separate areas
so that cats can access them without being
challenged by another cat or other potential
threats.
Following just a few of these tips can enrich the
lives of your precious felines and in turn make
your household a more fun and cat friendly
home.
56 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 57

Save the Date
Get your calendars out and save the dates for these upcoming events in 2024!
February
19 FEB
BOMBING OF DARWIN SERVICE
22 - 26 FEB
TRAVELLING FILM FESTIVAL
March
04 MAR
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY WALK
April
08 APR - 01 SEP
ADELAIDE RIVER MARKET
27 APR
THAILAND GRAND FESTIVAL
May
10 - 12 MAY
NIGHTCLIFF SEABREEZE FESTIVAL
18 MAY
BASS IN THE GRASS
21 - 22 MAY
BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL
25 MAY (TBC)
WATERFRONT HARMONY SOIREE
25 MAY
TOP END GIN FESTIVAL
25 MAY - 01 SEP
NOONAMAH TAVERN RODEO
25 - 26 MAY
FREDS PASS RURAL SHOW
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to
ensure the accuracy of the information
provided, we encourage you to confirm
details, including event dates, with event
organisers directly.
This is not an exhaustive list and some
events may be scheduled after print.
June
07 - 10 JUN
BARUNGA FESTIVAL
08 - 09 JUN (TBC)
GREEK GLENTI FESTIVAL
14 - 15 JUN
MALANDARRI FESTIVAL
14 - 16 JUN
DARWIN TRIPLE CROWN SUPERCARS
18 - 19 JUN
OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL
26 - 27 JUN
MANDORAH UKULELE FOLK FESTIVAL
July
1 JUL
TERRITORY DAY/CRACKER NIGHT
12 - 21 JUL
DARWIN FRINGE FESTIVAL
13 JUL
SHANNONS ROCKABILLY SHOW
15 JUL - 01 AUG (TBC)
EXERCISE PITCH BLACK (RAAF)
19 - 20 JUL
KATHERINE SHOW
August
04 AUG
DARWIN COCKTAIL FESTIVAL
07 AUG
NATIONAL INDIGENOUS FASHION AWARDS
08 - 24 AUG
DARWIN FESTIVAL
08 - 25 AUG
DARWIN PRIDE FESTIVAL
09 - 11 AUG
DARWIN ABORIGINAL ART FAIR
18 AUG
DARWIN LIONS BEER CAN REGATTA
26 - 28 AUG
DARWIN SHOW
Get your guides!
In 2023, we created some handy guides
to help you get the most out of your
time in the Top End. Collect your
Ultimate Tourist Guide or Wellbeing
Guide from our offices today!
THE TOP ENDER MAGAZINE PRESENTS
WELLBEING Guide
September
14 - 29 SEP
DARWIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
01 - 15 SEP (TBC)
DARWIN STREET ART FESTIVAL
October
01 OCT
MILLION DOLLAR FISH
November
05 NOV
NOONAMAH FROG RACES
10 - 11 NOV (TBC)
TACTILE ARTS MAKERS MARKETS
December
The Top Ender
Tri-Services Magazine Inc
THE TOP ENDER MAGAZINE
PRESENTS
THE
ULTIMATE
TOP END
GUIDE
2023
DEC (TBC)
PALMERSTON CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
SANTA’S VILLAGE DARWIN GALLERIA
The Starfish Swim Group was founded
by Donna Rousham in 2007 to provide
an opportunity for children with a
disability to participate in healthy
activities and access a cost-free water
skills program that is self-paced with a
qualified Swim Instructor. Sessions are
available every weekday afternoon with a
focus on social inclusion, increasing
confidence in the water and teaching
survival skills, which promotes
enjoyment of the Territory lifestyle.
The Starfish program started with 10 children
and now has over 70 participants, with a
waiting list of 40 children. Lessons are focused
on meeting the specific needs of every child
and the extent of the child’s disability, including;
Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Down
Syndrome, Asperger syndrome, Autism
Spectrum, Partial Chromosome Deletion,
ADHD, SPD, APD, and Global Development
Delay. Children who participate in this program
are referred by professionals in the Children
and Disability sectors and word of mouth.
A Mums and Bubs session is also available
every Saturday morning (consisting of 3
sessions with 6 children) and focuses on
children with disabilities aged between 6
months to 5 years. A Mums Luncheon is also a
regular activity to support mothers who have
children with disability.
INTERNATIONAL
DAY OF
HAPPINESS
20 MARCH
https://happinessday.org/
The Starfish Swim program and Founder, Donna Rousham, has been
recognised for her work as the recipient of a number of awards:
★ Nominee Finalist Darwin’s Citizen of the Year 2020
★ Winner Human Rights Award for Social Change 2019
★ Highly Commended Disability Services Awards 2018
★ Winner Statewide Super & LGANT Heroes Awards 2017
Donna volunteers her time to manage grant applications and generate
funding to cover the operational costs of the programs (including;
Swim Instructors, insurances and materials), which is an ongoing
process to ensure sustainability of the program and eliminate fees for
families who wish to participate. Fortunately, the two pool venues
used are generously sponsored in kind by Department of Education.
Due to the constant growth and success of the program, Starfish is
urgently seeking the services of Austswim Teachers with their TAI
Accreditation to join our program.
If you have any questions regarding Starfish, please contact Donna:
0437 112 633 or follow Variety NT Starfish Swim Group on
Facebook.
Please contact Variety NT Starfish Swim for up-to-date program
information for 2024.
Written by Donna Rousham
Program Coordinator
Variety NT Starfish Swim Group
DID YOU KNOW that March 20th every year,
forever, is the International Day of Happiness? The
movement was founded in 2006 and was adopted
by the UN in 2012.
Ten Steps to Global Happiness, by working to
promote and advance:
• Happiness as a fundamental human right and
goal for all
• Happiness as a universal aspiration in the lives of
all
• Happiness as a way of living, being, and serving
communities and society
• Happiness as a north star for individuals,
communities, governments, and society.
• Happiness path toward achieving the sustainable
development goals
• Happiness as a “new paradigm’ for human
development
• Worldwide celebration of the international day
of happiness that is democratic, diverse, organic,
and inclusive
58 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 59
Tourism NT/Helen Orr

Ask
Hayley
Top tips for the Top End Defence family experience
As we head into the second month of 2024, I hope you are settling
into your new routines, workplaces and schools after a safe and
happy break.
If you have recently posted into the NT, I wish you a warm
welcome and hope you are excited for future adventures.
Here are a few tips and reminders to help make the most of your
Top End experience:
• Stepping off the plane into the Territory heat can be a unique
experience but there are plenty of things to explore, even in
the wet season. Before we know it, the dry season will be upon
us! The Tourism Top End website is a great resource to help
you plan activities and trips.
• We’re also still in cyclone season, so please remember to follow
NT Police, Fire & Emergency Services, Secure NT, and Power
and Water on social media. You may also like to prepare a
cyclone kit for your family, or if you already have one, top up
any items or rotate your supplies.
• Sign up to the local DMFS newsletter for events, services,
advice and support.
• Apply for your Defence Common Access Card, or DCAC, for
access to events in Defence establishments. The ADF member
will need to complete a DCAC form to apply for family access,
noting each family member over the age of 16 years will need
their own card.
• Attend a Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)
Welcome Event. These are a fantastic opportunity for your
family to get to know the community and discover
opportunities. I hope to meet as many of the new families as
possible, as well as catch up with the families already here.
Details can be found through the DMFS team or website.
The DFA team are excited to share that the Defence Family
Advocate of Australia position has gone live and recruitment is
well underway. The Advocate is the senior advocate for an
estimated 84,000 families of current serving ADF members.
Contact Defence Families of Australia
Get in touch with us:
Written by Samantha Cooper
National Delegate Northern Territory and Kimberley
Defence Families of Australia
Whilst having spent a portion of 2023 in
caretaker mode, our team continued to
advocate for families. A summary of our
recent achievements and ongoing work is
outlined in our latest Advocacy Map on
our website.
View our
Advocacy Map
by scanning the
QR Code
Should any of these advocacy issues
resonate with you, I invite you to contact
me on the details below. To keep up to
date on DFA’s work, please follow us on
social media and subscribe to our
newsletter.
ABOUT DFA
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the
official Australian Defence Force (ADF)
families advisory body to the Minister for
Defence Personnel and Chief of the
Defence Force (CDF).
Our organisation sits outside of Defence
systems, allowing DFA independence and
impartiality to act in the best interests of
ADF families.
We are connected to Defence family
communities in our regions and are
largely veterans or family of Australian
Defence Force members.
To find out more about how DFA can
assist you, go to https://dfa.org.au
“Welcome back 'Top Enders' -
hoping you had a great Christmas,
that was stress free with delicious
food and without child tantrums!
That's the dream, isn't it!
We had a quiet Christmas day, filled with regular
moments of squealing children who were hyped
up on candy canes and chocolate, followed by me
repeating “use your inside voice” so much that by
the end of the evening, I had no voice left. It was
very ironic!
It’s taken a few days to recover and if I eat
anymore ham, I have no doubt I will turn into an
actual pig. I’m sure you know the feeling. I always
think "one more piece, it’s so delicious". There’s
definitely been a lot of “one more pieces” but it’s
all worth it. Especially with apple sauce on it. Yes
please!
We have now finished the ham, the leftovers and
the pudding, so we can take some time to focus
on the questions that you have been sending in.
This month we were asked; “we are in a new
location, how do we make new friends?”
This is difficult for most people - so you definitely
aren’t alone! Moving into new locations can be
hard, but extra hard when you don’t know
anyone! I’ve been in that situation, so I can relate!
So, to answer the question, how do we connect
and make new friends? Joining a club is always a
good start. That could be a sporting club or a local
special interest group. I have found that people are
really welcoming when they understand you are
new to the area and locals will usually help you
feel included.
There are also many spouse groups on Facebook,
and I regularly see posts looking for new friends in
various locations. It’s an easy way to connect with
other defence families, who understand the
challenges of military life.
One particularly helpful defence spouse group on
Facebook is called 'DWORG'. Have you heard of
it? If not, join in now! I connect in there often and
the spouses are great and supportive, so you don't
feel alone. They are always willing to catch up for a
coffee, play date or a walk around the local areas.
School parent groups is also an option. Chat with the school
to see if there are parent representatives there to assist. I
have found them to be very helpful to navigate new areas.
It’s also a bonus if your school has a DMFS Defence School
Mentor as they are focused on connecting with new
families!
And lastly, be brave and find the courage to reach out to
new people. Yes, it feels awkward, but we have all been
there and understand - a stranger is only a friend you
haven't met yet!
With love,
Hayley
Written by Hayley Boswell
Founder
Defence Kidz
Ask Hayley for advice by emailing your questions
to:
admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
@defencekidz
https://defencekidz.com.au/
DefenceFamiliesofAustralia
@DefenceFamilies 0418 807 549
@defence_families_
Defence Families
nt@dfa.org.au
60 The Top Ender of_australia
| Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated of Australia
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 61

BUILDING
RESILIENCE
IN KIDS
USEFUL RESOURCES
Moving house, starting a new school and
changing our social activities are
considered as some of life’s most stressful
events. It’s no wonder that kids can find
moving to a new place very stressful.
School-age kids have to figure out a new school,
learn new routines, and make new friends, all while
keeping up with their studies - it’s hard! While most
kids bounce back quickly, some cope better than
others. Sometimes it’s hard to know how they’re
doing emotionally, because children can’t always
express what’s going on.
Psychologist Giuliett Moran of Empowering Parents
says any major changes in behaviour or personality
can be a tip-off that kids are having trouble adapting
to change. “It’s normal for children to display some
changes due to expected nerves and uncertainty
associated with a transition,” Giuliett says.
“However, being aware of the changes and
monitoring the severity of them, and whether
they’re improving over time, is important.”
Part of how well kids handle a move is their level of
resilience; their ability to roll with life’s punches. It’s
characterised by an optimistic attitude, good coping
skills, perseverance, and healthy self-esteem.
It’s good to know that resilience isn’t something
we either have or don’t have—it can be
developed, and is something we can work on
together as a family.
RESILIENCE SKILLS CAN BE TAUGHT
Helping kids develop resilience means we nurture
the social, emotional and problem-solving skills that
will help them land on their feet. Many schools are
already running resilience programs, and those skills
can be encouraged at home, too. A good starting
point is to acknowledge that kids have difficult
feelings and encourage them to talk about them.
“The sooner children learn to identify, label and
communicate how they’re feeling, the easier it is for
them to learn to manage and regulate their own
feelings,” Giuliett says.
And that includes talking about emotions like
sadness, anger, and frustration.
“We want children to learn that all feelings are ok,
so they feel confident and comfortable
communicating their worries and concerns.”
Helping kids develop their problem-solving skills also
builds resilience. Giuliett recommends instead of
jumping in to solve your child’s problems—for
example, finding something they’ve lost—try
working together on a solution.
Seeing how you solve the problem step-by-step is
how they learn to problem-solve independently,
which they’ll then carry with them into new
situations.
Giuliett says there are things you can do before a
move to help kids settle more smoothly, such as;
• checking out what the new school, home and
suburb look like by looking up photos and videos
together
• researching some fun activities, clubs and places
to visit in the new area
• establishing family routines for mornings and
evenings that can be carried into the new
location for familiarity.
“Children thrive with structure and routine, and this
is because knowing what to expect helps them to
feel safe and secure,” she says.
SHOW ‘EM HOW IT’S DONE
As a parent, your kids will be looking to you to see
how to cope with a move - don’t forget to look
after yourself during this time and prioritise your
own mental health.
“Parents are, more often than not, a child’s most
important teacher,” Giuliett says.
“With a child learning and taking cues from their
parents, it’s important to consider how they
approach and manage their own stress.”
Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support when
you need it. If you or your child are finding the
moving experience very stressful, seeing a
professional counsellor or psychologist can help
put strategies in place.
Extracted from Defence Health
https://healthhq.defencehealth.com.au/2018/02/27/
building-resilience-bounce-back-can-help-kids-deal-bigchanges/
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs is
funding the Australian Kookaburra Kids
Foundation to deliver the Defence Kids
Program across Australia, which provides
camps, activity days and age-appropriate
mental health education focusing on
coping skills and resilience, while allowing
children to bond with peers who are facing
similar challenges.
Defence Member
and Family Support
SMART resilience programs
The SMART Program series helps
Defence families identify and build on their
strengths, learn coping techniques, and
becomes more resilient, positive and selfreliant.
The SMART Programs - KidSMART and
FamilySMART - are delivered by local
Defence Social Workers in small group
sessions.
The Programs target challenging aspects of
Defence life, such as deployment,
relocation, absence from home and
reunion.
Practical tips and techniques are shared,
including grounding techniques, progressive
muscle relaxation, changing self-talk,
problem solving, and expressing emotions.
Participants will also learn how to identify
when other people are having difficulty
coping and how to help them.
Contact the Defence Member and Family
Helpline to express interest in the SMART
Programs.
62 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 63

KIDS
CORNER
What day does an
Easter egg hate the
most?
A: Fry-day
SPECIAL
BASKET
BONNET
BUNNY
CHICK
CHOCOLATE
EASTER
EGG
FLOWERS
LAMB
PARADE
What is the Easter
Bunny’s favourite
music?
A: Hip Hop
What do you call the Easter
bunny after Easter?
A: Eggs-hausted
64 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 65

HANDY DIRECTORY
The Top Ender
Office............................................................................................................0419 274 735
Defence Community Houses
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House................................0447 586 591
Defence Community and Veterans
Support Services
Health
Australian Breastfeeding Association....................................1800 686 268
Admin..........................................................admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Email.................................................larrakeyahhouse@hotmail.com
ADF Reserves and Employer Support NT/K
Autism NT...........................................................................................08 8948 4424
Advertising......................................advertising@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Network Tindal
Email.........................................................ADFRES.NT@defence.gov.au
Bereaved Parent Support NT|SIDS and Kids NT.........08 8948 5311
Website..........................................................www.thetopendermagazine.org.au
Email...........................................................networktindal@gmail.com
Phone........................................................................................0418 549 841
24-hour Emergency Support Line.............................0448 849 234
Emergencies and Useful Contacts
Emergency Services.....................................................................................................000
Police Assistance Line......................................................................................131 444
1800 IMSICK.............................................................................................1800 467 425
All Hours Support Line......................................................................1800 626 036
COVID-19 Helpline, NT................................................................1800 0008 002
Crime Stoppers NT.............................................................................1800 333 000
Defence Family Helpline....................................................................1800 624 608
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)..........................................................139 342
Defence Switchboard..........................................................................1300 333 362
Family Violence and Counselling...................................................1800 737 732
Health Direct...........................................................................................1800 022 222
Hospital, Darwin Private Hospital................................................08 8920 6011
Hospital, Palmerston Regional Hospital....................................08 7979 9200
Hospital, Royal Darwin Hospital...................................................08 8922 8888
Joint Military Police Station (JMPS)..........................................................13 11 67
Lifeline.......................................................................................................................131 114
Night Patrol...............................................................................................1800 101 645
Poisons Information Line ..............................................................................131 126
Power and Water.................................................................................1800 245 090
Secure NT............................................................................www.securent.nt.gov.au
SES Emergency Helpline.................................................................................132 500
Snake Catcher.........................................................................................1800 453 210
Tropical Cyclone Information NT................................................1300 659 211
NT Defence Bases and Establishments
Defence Establishment Berrimah
Front Gate.....................................................................................08 7971 0008
Mess Manager.........................................08 8935 4422 / 0437 795 258
Larrakeyah Barracks
Front Gate.....................................................................................08 7971 1190
Officers’ Mess..............................................................................08 8935 5570
ORs’ Mess.....................................................................................08 8935 5088
Sergeants’ Mess..........................................................................08 8935 5580
RAAF Base Darwin
Airmen‘s Mess.............................................................................08 8923 5517
Front Gate.....................................................................................08 7929 4463
Officers Mess...............................................................................08 8923 5482
Sergeants’ Mess..........................................................................08 8923 5505
RAAF Base Tindal
Airmen‘s Mess.............................................................................08 8973 6240
Front Gate.....................................................................................08 8973 6228
Sergeants’ Mess..........................................................................08 8973 6385
Robertson Barracks
Front Gate.....................................................................................08 8925 6186
Officers’ Mess..............................................................................08 8925 3650
Robertson Barracks Family Group..................................0490 151 944
Email........................robertsonbarracksfamilygroup@gmail.com
On-base Services
Canteens
AAFCANS
Robertson Barracks, Cafe Central......................08 8925 2542
RAAF Darwin, Darwin Canteen..........................08 8981 2508
Robertson Barracks, Shout VC Canteen........08 8925 6720
Tindal Cafe, Convenience & Fuel Station.......08 8973 6201
Navy Canteens
National Operations Manager
............................................................08 8935 5144 / 0477 477 147
Larrakeyah, Outpipes.................................................08 8935 5144
Military Banks
Australian Military Bank
Larrakeyah Barracks.....................................................08 8981 2245
Robertson Barracks.....................................................08 8995 7800
Defence Bank
Larrakeyah Barracks.....................................................08 8935 5499
RAAF Darwin.................................................................08 7923 2500
Robertson Barracks.....................................................08 8936 6400
Tindal...................................................................................08 8965 1600
Hairdressers
Larrakeyah Barracks.................................................................0427 968 918
RAAF Darwin – Julie-Anne.............08 8923 5153 / 0402 235 731
Robertson Barracks – Hair Dooz....................................08 8925 3300
Robertson Barracks – South End Barber Shop........08 8925 6723
Uniform and Equipment
Robertson Barracks, Regional Clothing Store
Retail (Purchases).........................................................08 7971 7130
CIP (Exchanges)............................................................08 7971 6920
Tailor....................................................................................08 7971 7043
Tim’s Medal Mounting............................................................0448 129 531
Bulletproof NT...........................................................................08 8947 0935
Chaplains
Army On-call...............................................................................0427 713 963
Navy On-call................................................................................0409 662 823
RAAF Darwin On-call............................................................0477 308 064
RAAF Tindal On-call...............................................................0427 890 054
Helplines
Lifeline (24hr)...........................................................................................131 114
Kids Helpline (24hr).................................................................1800 551 800
Parent Helpline – Karitane (24hr)...................................1300 227 464
Parentline.......................................................................................1300 301 300
Defence Member and Family Support (formerly DCO)
Website...........................................................www.defence.gov.au/dco
Defence Family Helpline................................................1800 624 608
Darwin Office.......................................................................08 8935 7900
Tindal/Katherine Office...................................................08 8973 6353
Defence Families of Australia (DFA)
National Convenor............................................................1800 100 509
National Delegate NT and Kimberly...................................0418 807 548
Email............................................................................................nt@dfa.org.au
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)............................1800 555 254
Website...............................................................................www.dva.gov.au
Defence Service Home Loans.................................................1800 722 000
Provider Enquiries.............................................................1800 550 457
Kookaburra Kids...............................................................................1300 566 525
Website......................................................www.kookaburrakids.org.au
Open Arms (24hrs) .....................................................................1800 011 046
Website.................................................................www.openarms.gov.au
Legacy Northern Territory........................................................08 8948 0830
Website..................................................................www.legacy.com.au/nt
Mates4Mates...................................................................................1300 4 MATES
National ADF Family Health Program................................02 6266 3547
Website..........................................................www.adffamilyhealth.com
Red Shield Defence Services – Salvation Army
Gerald & Mairi Mitchell...................................................0400 642 881
Returned Services League (RSL)
Darwin..........................................................................darwin@rslsa.org.au
Darwin North.......................................................................08 8945 0701
Katherine (via Secretary)................................................0407 130 095
Nhulunbuy..............................................................................0439 850 866
Palmerston..............................................................................0488 001 862
Tennant Creek.....................................................................0499 564 031
Veterans Australia (NT) ............sec@veteransaustraliant.org.au
Advocacy Assistance............smatdp@veteransaustraliant.org.au
Useful Defence Contacts
Comsuper
ADF Cover.............................................................................1300 001 977
ADF Super..............................................................................1300 203 439
DFRDB.....................................................................................1300 001 677
Military Super (MSBS)......................................................1300 006 727
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)....................................................133 342
Website...............................................................................www.dha.gov.au
Defence Relocations and Housing Manager NT..........08 7929 4547
Toll Transitions.................................................................................1800 819 167
Defence Tax Management Office (CTMO)...................1800 806 053
Birthline Pregnancy Support......................................................1300 655 156
Cancer Council NT
Alice Springs...........................................................................08 8953 5920
Darwin.......................................................................................08 8944 1800
Katherine..................................................................................08 8971 2022
Website....................................................................www.nt.cancer.org.au
Carers Australia NT.......................................................................08 8944 4888
Website......................................................................www.carersnt.asn.au
Childbirth Education Association Darwin..........................08 8948 3043
Website..................................................................www.ceadarwin.asn.au
Community Care Centres
Alice Springs Community Health Centre.............08 8951 6711
Casuarina Community Care Centre........................08 8922 7301
Katherine Community Health Centre....................08 8973 8570
Karama Child and Family Health Clinic..................08 8922 7301
Nhulunbuy Community Health Centre.................08 8987 0435
Nylander Child Health Clinic.......................................08 8922 7301
Palmerston Community Care Centre.....................08 8999 3344
Tennant Creek Community Health Care.............08 8962 4218
Cradle Support Group.................................................................0438 272 353
Website...........................................................................www.cradle.org.au
Darwin Homebirth Group .......................................................08 8922 5522
Website.............................darwinhomebirthgroup.wordpress.com
Defence Special Needs Support Group (DSNSG)
Website............................................................................www.dsnsg.org.au
National Coordinator.......................................................1800 037 674
Darwin Coordinator...........................................darwin@dsnsg.org.au
Katherine/Tindal Coordinator......................liza.gale@dsnsg.org.au
Down Syndrome Association NT.........................................08 8985 6222
Website..............................................www.downsyndroment.com.au
Epilepsy Centre – Epilepsy Association of SA & NT
Phone.........................................................................................1300 850 081
Website........................................................www.epilepsycentre.org.au
Family Planning NT.........................................................................08 8948 0144
Website.........................................................................www.fpwnt.com.au
Hearing Australia...........................................................................................134 432
Northern Territory Department of Health (DOH)
Phone.........................................................................................08 8999 2400
Website....................................................................www.health.nt.gov.au
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline......................................1800 882 436
Top End Mental Health Service..............................................08 8999 4988
Wellness Centre..............................................................................08 8946 7176
Website...........................................www.cdu.edu.au/wellness-centre
ORs’ Mess.....................................................................................08 8925 2514
Sergeants’ Mess..........................................................................08 8925 6703
66 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 67

Sports and Activities
Australian Military Wives Choir...................................................0416 878 261
Australian Air Force Cadets 8 Wing
AAFC 801 Squadron – Winnellie..................................08 8923 5713
AAFC 802 Squadron – Driver.........................................0473 816 694
AAFC 803 Squadron – Tindal.........................................0427 397 495
AAFC 804 Squadron – Alice Springs...........................08 8953 4484
Australian Army Cadets...............................08 8935 5174 / 08 8935 5488
Email................................................................aachq-nt@armycadets.gov.au
Australian Navy Cadets
Training Ship Darwin...........................TSDarwin@navycadets.gov.au
Training Ship Melville Bay.........TSMelvilleBay@navycadets.gov.au
Girl Guides NT......................................................................................08 8981 3628
Website........................................................................www.girlguides.org.au
Playgroups Association NT (PANT).........................................08 8945 7775
Website................................................................www.playgroupnt.com.au
RAAF Darwin Fishing Club.............................................................08 8924 2045
RAAF Darwin Golf Club..................................................................0459 746 306
Swimming
Masters Swimming..................................................................08 8981 5919
Alice AUSSI............................................thecullenanes@ozemail.com.au
Darwin Stingers...........................................................stingers@iinet.net.au
Palmerston Sharks..............................info@palmerstonsharks.com.au
Goldfishbowl Swim School................................................08 8931 1000
NT Swim School......................................................................08 8948 1000
Website...............................................www.ntswimschool.com.au
Palmerston & Rural Swimming Club
Head Coach Daniel Gerlach................................0400 299 622
Swim Dynamics Swim School..........................................0421 631 624
Website....................................................www.swimdynamics.com
Scouts NT.................................................................................................08 8948 0994
Website.......................................................................www.nt.scouts.com.au
Surf Life Saving NT..............................................................................08 8985 6588
Website..................................................................www.lifesavingnt.com.au
Local Government and Regional Councils
Alice Springs Town Council...........................................................08 8950 0500
Barkly Regional Council....................................................................08 8962 0000
Belyuen Community Government Council...........................08 8978 5061
Central Desert Regional Council................................................1300 360 605
City of Darwin........................................................................................08 8930 0300
City of Palmerston...............................................................................08 8935 9922
Coomalie Community Government Council......................08 8976 0058
East Arnhem Regional Council.....................................................08 8986 8986
Katherine Town Council..................................................................08 8972 5500
Litchfield Council..................................................................................08 8983 0600
MacDonnell Regional Council.......................................................08 8958 9600
Nhulunbuy Corporation...................................................................08 8939 2200
Roper Gulf Regional Councils.............................................08 8972 9000
Tiwi Regional Council..............................................................08 8970 9500
Victoria Daly Regional Council...........................................08 8972 0777
Wagait Shire Council...............................................................08 8978 5185
West Arnhem Regional Council.......................................08 8979 9444
West Daly Regional Council................................................08 8901 3920
Government
Bureau of Meteorology...........................................................1800 659 214
Website........................................................................www.bom.gov.au
Department of Human Services.....................................................132 468
Centrelink
Medicare
Carers...................................................................................132 717
Families.................................................................................136 150
Complaints and Feedback............................1800 132 468
General Enquiries...........................................................132 011
myGov Helpdesk........................................................................132 307
Motor Vehicle Registry NT...................................................1300 654 628
Website....................................................................www.mvr.nt.gov.au
Road Report ................................................................................1800 246 199
Website....................................................www.roadreport.nt.gov.au
Animal Services and Animal Care
Injured Wildlife
Wildcare Alice Springs................................................0419 221 128
Wildcare Darwin.......................08 8988 6121 / 0408 885 341
Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary........................................0473 992 581
Katherine Wildlife Rescue Services.....................0412 955 336
RSPCA (Darwin)............................................................08 8984 3795
Pounds and Animal Shelters
Alice Springs.................................08 8950 0500 / 08 8953 4430
Darwin.................................................................................08 8947 2099
Katherine.............................................................................08 8972 5500
Palmerston.........................................................................08 8935 9977
Snake Catcher..............................................................................1800 453 210
While the information contained in the Handy
Directory is considered by the employees and
committee of the Top Ender Tri-Services
Magazine Inc to be true and correct at the date
of publication, changes in circumstances after the
time of publication may render the information
inaccurate. The information may change without
notice, and the Top Ender Tri-Service Magazine
and those working on its behalf, cannot be held
in any way liable for the accuracy of any
information printed or stored, or in any way
interpreted and used, by the reader.
Have we missed something?
Email us at admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
to request alterations or additions to the The Top Ender Magazine and
Handy Directory.
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