AIRF RCEVol. 55, No. 19, October 10, 2013 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

PAGE 2 PAGE 4

ON PATROL

AP-3C Orion takes flight over Australia’s north

CENTREPIECE

IN FLIGHT: Pilot FLTLT James Pears flies over north Australian waters during an Operation Resolute mission. Photo: LS Andrew Dakin

New blue eraCAF approves new General

Purpose Uniform

Myth bustingCDF encourages people to seek help for mental health issues

2 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FNews

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EDITORIAL TEAMEditorAlisha Welch: (02) 6265 7117Deputy Editor John Martin: (02) 6265 7219ReportersWO2 Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614SGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Nick Wiseman: (02) 6265 4140CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 LS Helen Frank: (02) 6266 7606Michael Brooke: (02) 9359 2494

CONTACT USEmail: raafnews@defencenews.gov.auFax: (02) 6266 7701Mail: The Editor, Air Force News, R8-LG-048, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600Website: www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnews

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DISCLAIMERAir Force News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence News. It is printed under contract by Horton Media Australia Ltd. The mate-rial published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Air Force News. Every adver-tisement is subject to Directorate of Defence News approval and the Directorate of Defence News may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertise-ment. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence News. The fact that an advertisement is accepted for publication does not mean that the product or service is endorsed by the Department of Defence or Air Force News.

RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORKLiving the Air Force Values:

New blue era

Accused apprehendedCDF GEN David Hurley has confirmed the former Afghan National Army sergeant accused of murdering three Australian soldiers in August 2012 is in custody in Afghanistan. GEN Hurley said former SGT Hekmatullah was apprehended by Inter-Services Intelligence in Pakistan. He is expected to face trial for the murder of LCPL Stjepan ‘Rick’ Milosevic, SPR James Martin and PTE Robert Poate during an insider attack at Patrol Base Wahab in Afghanistan. Two Australian soldiers were also wounded in the attack.

Veterans’ health weekTHE Department of Veterans’ Affairs, in partnership with ex-service organisations and community groups, is calling on the ADF and veteran communities to take part in activities that will benefit their health and wellbeing during Veterans’ Health Week from October 14 to 20. This year’s theme is Physical Activity – Fitness, Strength, Flexibility and Balance. To find out more contact DVA on 133 254 (or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia), email vhw@dva.gov.au or visit www.dva.gov.au/vhw.htm

Leadership studyAFTER more than five years in the making, a landmark study into what it takes to be a successful strategic leader in the hallways of military, departmental and political power has been released. CDF GEN David Hurley launched The Chiefs: A Study of Strategic Leadership at the Australian Defence College (ADC) in Canberra on September 16. More than 100 guests, including three former ADF chiefs, attended. The publication breaks new ground in examining contemporary leader-ship. For more information, visit the ADC intranet site.

CAF essay competitionTHE 2013 CAF essay competition is open to all Australian citizens and foreign military exchange personnel serving with the ADF. Participants must submit a 5000 word analy-sis of one of five air power topics, for which the winner will receive $2000. Submissions close on January 28, 2014. For more infor-mation, visit http://airpower.airforce.gov.au

Warfare conferenceREGISTRATIONS are open for a joint warfare conference in Canberra on November 5 and 6. Hosted by VCDF, the conference will pro-vide an opportunity for attendees to explore better ways of prioritising a balance of investment across warfighting, enabling and supporting capabilities to achieve a more effective joint force. For more information and to register, visit http://jointwarfareconfer-ence.com.au

Blood challenge updateONE month in and the 2013 Defence Blood Challenge is well on the way to meet this year’s target of 4000 donations. At the end of the first month, 1293 donations have been made. Air Force is in second place with 310 donations. Army has recorded 502 dona-tions, Navy 241 and Defence civilians 240. The challenge runs until November 30 and personnel, friends and family can register their donation for Air Force at www.donate-blood.com.au/defence

IN BRIEF

FLTLT Mick McGirr

Almost six years after Air Force phased out the distinctive blue Combined Working Dress, CAF AIRmHsl Geoff Brown has approved the production and wear of a new General Purpose Uniform (GPU).

GPUs, as they will be known, are planned to begin replacing the exist-ing Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniforms (DPCU) worn by Air Force personnel from 2014.

AIRmsHl Brown said the new GPUs, a mix of dark and light blue colours based on the Australian mul-ticam pattern, would give Air Force a modern and distinctive identity,

clearly distinguishing it from the other services, and providing a functional working uniform to suit Air Force’s unique operating environment.

“the purpose of the GPU is to pro-vide a unique and easily identifiable Air Force presence to the Defence and civilian community, consistent with our identity and effective in meeting our service requirements,” AIRmsHl Brown said.

“the intention is for the GPU to be worn within the workplace and on non-warlike operational duties, such as deployments on humanitarian assis-tance and disaster relief operations.

“Personnel posted to operational theatres that require a special uni-form will continue to have that issued appropriately.”

the new GPUs were chosen after a thorough design and evaluation pro-cess that resulted in four similar varia-tions. the four variations where then presented by the project team to CAF, DCAF, ACAUst and WoFF-AF.

WoFF-AF mark Pentreath said the final variant was chosen unani-mously by all present.

“Everyone who viewed the chosen uniform agreed it complemented both the Air Force service dress and other accoutrements such as the Air Force shirt, cap and general purpose boots, as well as Army and Navy uniforms,” WoFF-AF Pentreath said.

“they are no doubt looking forward to trying on the uniform themselves once full production begins.”

AIRmsHl Brown acknowledged the work done in preparation and pro-duction of the proposed variants by the Air Command project team and the Clothing systems Program office.

“I thank all those who assisted in the design and evaluation, and look forward to a new uniform that all Air Force members can take pride in wearing,” he said.

march 2014 will mark the begin-ning of a phased introduction of the new GPU during the Air Force birth-day commemorations.

More information about the uniform, including FAQs and images, will be made available on both the intranet and Air Force website as details evolve.

READY FOR PRODUCTION: FLTLT Jason Keir wears the winning General Purpose Uniform pattern as CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown (centre), DCAF AVM Leo Davies (left) and Deputy Air Commander Australia AIRCDRE Chris Westwood view the final selection. Photo: CPL Guy Young

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3October 10, 2013RCEAIR F News

BRAVE SHAVE: ACW Shay MacArtney surrounded by fellow students.

Photos: Addison Hamilton/ Daily Advertiser

SGT Dave Morley

A RAAF Base Wagga instructor is taking a head shave for chari-ty to new heights by planning to auction the right to shave her head on November 1.

CPL Peta Bubear hopes to raise $2000 for the Kids with Cancer Foundation.

CPL Bubear, a Personnel Capabi l i ty Special is t course instructor at the RAAF School of Administration and Logistics Training, has been growing her hair for more than three years.

“I’ve got two healthy boys, aged three and four, and this is a good way of recognising that,” she said.

CPL Bubear said she had a morning tea scheduled for mid-October and had also planned a raffle.

“We are planning to hold a raffle

AUCTION STATIONS: SGT Kristy Attwood and CPL Peta Bubear will have their heads shaved for charity in November.

Turning heads at Wagga

and there will be a sausage sizzle on the morning of the head shave,” she said.

“We’re looking at opening up

to the wider RAAF base so anyone who wants to come along to the head shave is welcome to do so.”

As well as raising money for Kids with Cancer, CPL Bubear will be donating her waist-length ponytail to the Princess Charlotte Alopecia Program, which supports girls aged eight to 14 who have lost their hair.

SGT Kristy Attwood, CPL Bubear’s supervisor, will also have her head shaved on November 1.

“Everyone’s touched by cancer,” SGT Attwood said. “It doesn’t dis-criminate, so whether it’s for kids or adults, male or female, it doesn’t matter, chip in and support where you can.”

To support CPL Bubear’s and SGT Attwood’s fundraising efforts, visit www.give.everydayhero.com/au/hot-fuzz

(Hair) raising the stakes

SGT Dave Morley

RAAF School of Technical Training (RAAFSTT) students showed what mateship was all about when they held a mass head shave to raise money for Lymphoma Australia on September 26.

Members of the 6/12 Avionics Course took up the fundraising effort after one of their fellow stu-dents, AC Scott Grant, was diag-nosed with stage 4 lymphoma.

They set a target of $5000 but, by using their personal networks on Facebook and with support from their families and friends, they have raised almost $8300.

RAAFSTT course adviser SGT Anthony Palmowski said the

event was a great opportunity to support a mate through a difficult time.

“All 17 course members participated and had their heads shaved,” he said.

“We’re very pleased. The course members wanted to show mateship and solidarity for Scott, who is receiving a second round of treatment in Melbourne.

“We also wanted to raise awareness of lymphoma. Not many people know about it, yet one person in Australia will be diagnosed with lymphoma every two hours.”

SGT Palmowski said special mention should go out to ACs

Josh Loef and Michael Garrad, who helped ACW Shay MacArtney with the organisation.

“While the guys in the course were excited to do the shave, there were some nerves after they saw the first couple of guys go under the clippers but, as they said, ‘it’s for a great cause’.”

SGT Palmowski supported his students by also having his head shaved.

Units at RAAF Base Williamtown are conducting their own fundraising in support of the campaign.

To donate, visit www.lymphoma.org.au/donate

17 students and their course adviser get behind a sick mate

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4 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FNews

Busting the myth HELP AT HAND: GEN David Hurley wants to challenge the misconception that seeking help with mental health issues will limit career options.

Simone Liebelt

CDF GEN David Hurley wants to bust the myth within Defence that if you seek help for mental health issues it will negatively impact your career.

In a video address for ADF Mental Health Day on October 10, GEN Hurley asked members to think about the real impact of not gaining assistance.

“I’d like to challenge the misconcep-tion within our organisation that seeking help with mental health-related issues will limit your future career options,” GEN Hurley said.

“Let’s think about this matter in terms of risk. What is the risk to your career if you don’t get help? What is the risk to your long-term health, your safety, and what is the risk to your family and your mates? Some people who don’t get help may reach breaking point, with no control over where or when – what are the risks then?”

GEN Hurley said members needed to weigh up the possible consequences of doing nothing.

“To my mind, to not take action or seek assistance for mental health concerns as early as you can runs a greater risk of affecting your ability to do your job and, as a result, affecting your future career prospects,” he said.

“Seeking assistance will help you be healthy and when you’re healthy you reduce the risk of damaging the things that really matter.”

The theme of this year’s ADF Mental Health Day, which coincides with World Mental Health Day, is the link between healthy living and good mental health.

ADF members are being encouraged to recognise that link and reflect on their own mental health and that of their col-leagues through a range of activities being held until October 31.

These include command-led activities on bases, ships and selected deployments to help promote open discussion of mental health issues, the causes, symptoms and services available.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown said Air Force commanders would facilitate dis-cussions with personnel.

“I encourage everyone to actively par-ticipate in open and honest discussions and improve their awareness of the range of support services available,” AIRMSHL Brown said.

As well as the CDF’s video address, members are being encouraged to view the 2013 ADF Mental Health Day Fighting Fit video, which tells the story of four ADF members who have experienced a significant and life-changing event that physically and psychologically impacted their lives.

To view the videos, or for more information on ADF Mental Health Day, visit intranet.defence.gov.au/vcdf/sites/ADFMentalHealthDay/com-web.asp?page=89296&Title=Welcome Editor’s note: Full coverage of Mental Health Day next edition.

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5October 10, 2013RCEAIR F News

SGT Dave Morley

THE loss of two aircrew in a 1SQN F-111 at Guyra, NSW, on September 13, 1993, has been commemorated at RAAF Base Amberley and Guyra.

Ceremonies were held at Amberley on September 13 and Guyra on September 15 to remember FLTLTs Jeremy “Jezz” McNess and Mark “CC” Cairns-Cowan.

DCAF AVM Leo Davies, who spoke at the Amberley commemoration, said it was an emotional day.

“I remember that day 20 years ago vividly – I was the authorising officer for B/S 18,” he said. “Today, we commemorate the loss of two fine aviators.

“With the years passing, we have learned a great deal about safety, training and preparation for conflict and, although it may be only small consolation to many, our record is considerably better than it was.”

GPCAPT Geoff Harland, Officer Commanding 82WG, said it was hard to imagine how long ago it seemed and yet how clear it still was.

“On September 13, 1993, the RAAF, 82WG and 1SQN lost two of its finest aviators,” he said.

“But, more importantly, a community of family, friends and colleagues lost forever two gentlemen, two characters and two shining examples to us all.

“I can remember being at home in Brisbane at the time when I received a call, later that night, which I found hard to believe – we had lost a jet and the crew could not be found.

“It’s a call you never want to receive but, in the profession of aviation, one you acknowledge can happen.”

GPCAPT Harland said when it became clear that Jez and CC had been lost, it was hard to describe the unshakeable and pervading sadness that descended on Amberley.

“We were devastated,” he said.“I was lucky to have known them and I am grateful

for the wonderful and enduring relationship we have with Jez and CC’s families.”

During the Guyra ceremony, an F/A-18 conducted a flypast down Bradley Street from the north exiting to the south-west as part of the commemoration. It flew at 500 feet and at a speed of 350 knots.

Commanding Officer 1SQN WGCDR Murray Jones, 1SQN personnel, Guyra Shire Council and RSL sub-branch members, as well as local citizens, attended the service.

REMEMBRANCE: Above, family and friends of the two pilots killed in an F-111 crash 20 years ago join personnel to honour the pilots’ sacrifice at a ceremony at RAAF Base Amberley; inset right, DCAF AVM Leo Davies vividly remembers that black day 20 years ago.

Photos: LACW Kylie Gibson

Honouring lost matesThe aircraft, call sign “Buckshot 18”, went down while on a routine navigation exercise from RAAF Base Amberley on September 13, 1993. It crashed on to a property 4km north-west of Guyra with wreckage spread over half a square kilo-metre. Pilot FLTLT Jeremy “Jezz” McNess, 26, of Geelong in Victoria, and navigator FLTLT Mark “CC” Cairns-Cowan, 27, of Forster in NSW, were both killed. Witnesses said the plane caught fire in the air before exploding “like a fire cracker” and falling to earth around 7.15pm. It appeared to have been following the usual flight pattern.

THAT TRAGIC DAY

SADLY MISSED: Left, relatives of FLTLT Jeremy McNess, from left, wife Colleen, parents Jan and Norm, sister Kathryn and brother Andrew pay their respects.

LS Helen Frank

NINE years after being given freedom of entry to the city, 292SQN has once again marched down Murray Street in Tanunda in South Australia’s Barossa Valley.

Sixty personnel from the squad-ron marched – and were stopped and challenged for the right to pass by South Australian Police Chief Inspector Alex Zimmerman.

292SQN Commanding Officer WGCDR Roger McCutcheon said the warm reception from the Barossa residents as he marched down the street made him feel proud and honoured to be leading the squadron.

“I’d like to thank Mayor Brian Hurn and Chief Inspector

292SQN freedom in Barossa

Zimmerman for allowing us this honour,” WGCDR McCutcheon said. “The barbecue reception was a great opportunity to engage with local community groups.”

292SQN Personnel Capability Officer FLGOFF Rebecca Miller said the highlight was proudly marching down the main street.

“The local community watched us pass – it was really nice to hear their applause,” she said.

“One of the challenges was getting everyone together for practice. With all the sections in the squadron having different flying and training programs, this was no easy task.”

292SQN first exercised the right of Freedom of Entry to the towns of the Barossa in 2004. Over time the squadron has developed a strong connection with the Barossa community with some members living in the area.

Squadron personnel have also retired to the area and the squadron also supports the local Anzac Day dawn service in Nuriootpa each year.

TRADITION: WOFF Steve Woods presents the scroll to Chief Inspector Alex Zimmermann.

CLOSE LINKS: 292SQN members march through the streets of Tanunda after exercising freedom of the city. Photos: LACW Nicci Freeman

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6 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FNews

SGT Dave Morley

A LOT of recruits, away from home for the first time, quietly wish their mother was there to help them through the gruelling recruit course.

ACW Taylah Walters, a recent graduate of No. 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU), actually had her mother, ACW Amanda Walters, with her as a fellow recruit, although they were not in the same flight.

ACW Taylah Walters said a lot of her friends thought it was surreal that a mother and daughter were going through 1RTU at the same time.

“Some people didn’t believe we were mother and daughter and said stuff like, ‘I can’t believe your mother’s that young,’ and ‘that’s so cool having your mum here and having that support’,” she said.

But it doesn’t stop there.Her father, CPL Dezi Walters,

is a Military Skills Instructor at 1RTU.

CPL Walters said his family had been serving in the ADF since

World War I when they were in the Australian Flying Corps.

“My grandfather was in the Army in Borneo in World War II and my uncles were in Korea with 3RAR,” he said.

“My mother was a RAAF medic towards the end of the Vietnam War and dealt with the casualties coming back into Richmond.”

ACW Amanda Walters, a Dental Assistant at RAAF Base Wagga, joined the Air Force in February.

She said joining the Air Force was something she’d wanted to do for a long time.

“I first applied in 2004 but had to put it off because we didn’t have any family support where we were living at the time,” she said.

“I wanted a challenge, to see if I could do it – and I did. It was good having Taylah at 1RTU at the same time as me because we could support each other.”

ACW Taylah Walters said she felt really proud when she first put on her blue uniform.

“I really felt as though I was part of something good,” she said.

CPL Nick Wiseman

BeINg awarded the US Army Commendation Medal for his service with the US Army in Afghanistan was a humbling experience, according to SgT Peter Madigan of RAAF Base Amberley.

SgT Madigan was awarded the medal for his dedication to duty dur-ing combat operations in Afghanistan and contributing to the success of the command’s mission.

He said his deployment was an excellent experience and his second time doing that particular job.

“I was the personal security officer for the Deputy Commanding general Regional Command South, attached to the US 82nd Airborne Division,” he said.

“My daily duties consisted of plan-ning and executing security details and movements across Afghanistan.”

He was presented with his award at the RAAF Security and Fire School by his Commanding Officer, WgCDR Tony Houghton, on behalf of the US Army on September 13.

His citation reflected his actions as keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflecting cred-it upon himself, Regional Command South and the US Army.

SgT Madigan said it was great to see the progress of the Afghan Army.

“Working closely with the Afghan Army was a great opportunity,” he said.

“I spent a lot of time with them and saw first-hand the progress and develop-ment over the last four years between deployments.”

SgT Madigan deployed from March to November 2012 and is now a course manager at the RAAF Security and Fire School. He said he was enjoying spend-ing time with his family and daughter, who was born in August last year while he was deployed.

FAMILY SOLIDARITY: ACW Amanda Walters (left) went through recruit training at the same time as her daughter ACW Taylah Walters (centre). Her husband and Taylah’s father, CPL Dezi Walters, is a Military Skills Instructor at No. 1 Recruit Training Unit.

Keeping it in the family

Medal well deserved

TOP EFFORT: Commanding Officer of the RAAF Security and Fire School, WGCDR Tony Houghton, presents SGT Peter Madigan with the US Army Commendation Medal. Photo: SGT Robert Mitchell

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7October 10, 2013RCEAIR F News

Intelligence milestone

50 YEARS AND COUNTING: Above, CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown (right) and 87SQN’s youngest member, AC James De Britt, cut the cake celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Intelligence Officer specialisation; inset top, Michael Bryce (left), a former reserve Intelligence Officer, and World War II veteran George McKinnon at the celebrations; inset above, the 87SQN building is opened by CO WGCDR Greg Weller, also pictured, right, with the 50th anniversary time capsule. Photos: CPL Colin Dadd

87SQN was re-formed in 2006 and has 120 personnel in its ranks comprising Intelligence Officers, Air Intelligence Analysts and other personnel working in support roles.

CO WGCDR Greg Weller said the squadron’s role was to provide air intel-ligence for Air Force’s combat units.

“The unit does this in a number of ways, including providing target intel-ligence, mission intelligence, counter intelligence and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance for the Air Force’s combat elements and the Air and Space Operations Centre,” WGCDR Weller said.

He said the unit had been continu-ally deploying personnel across the globe in support of ADF operations, including Solomon Islands, East Timor, Afghanistan, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates, thereby continuing the proud legacy 87SQN created during World War II.

For more information about 87SQN’s history, visit http://www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum/research/units/87sqn.htm

87SQN at a glaNce

WO2 Andrew Hetherington

Air Force’s intelligence community gathered at Headquarters 87SQN at rAAF Base Edinburgh on September 20 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the rAAF intelligence Officer specialisation

More than 100 personnel attended three events to mark the occasion, which included a symposium on Air Force intelligence (AFiNT), the official open-ing of the new 87SQN HQ building, and a formal dinner hosted by Commander Aerospace Operational Support Group (CDr AOSG) AirCDrE Noel Derwort.

C A F A i r M S H L G e o f f Brown and Michael Bryce , the Governor-General’s husband and a former reserve intelligence Officer, were guests of honour. World War ii signals intelligence veteran George McKinnon and Deputy Secretary intelligence and Security Steve Meekin were also among the guests celebrating the milestone.

Commanding Offi ce r 87SQN WGCDr Greg Weller said AFiNT had a rich history that dated back to World War i, with the very first air power role – intelligence surveillance and recon-naissance – being required for the provi-sion of intelligence to commanders and warfighters.

“This strong historical legacy was recognised on the day in many ways, most notably with the interment of a 50th anniversary time capsule that will be opened on the 100th anniversary,” WGCDr Weller said.

The capsule contained a variety of items reflecting the AFiNT capability, units and workforce of 2013.

He said the gathering at Edinburgh was important for all current and future AFiNT personnel.

“The symposium provided an opportunity to know our past, better understand current issues and forecast future aspects to develop the intelligence capability through the AFiNT Project that was established this year,” WGCDr Weller said.

“The aim of the AFiNT Project, endorsed by the CAF Advisory Committee last year, is to develop an AFiNT capability that will provide the intelligence capability the Air Force of 2020 will require.”

For the first t ime, an AFiNT Capability Plan has been developed and endorsed by CAF to guide the development of AFiNT over the next seven years. intelligence is now being managed as an Air Force capability with CDr AOSG as the capability manager.

AirCDrE Derwort said CAF had recognised the importance and need to expand the capability by introduc-ing more resources, improving training, integrating personnel with new weapons systems and platforms, and increasing the AFiNT workforce potentially beyond an additional 300 personnel.

“These numbers will boost the ranks of both the AFiNT specialisation and the Air intelligence Analyst mustering, which was created in January,” AirCrE Derwort said.

The opening of the new 87SQN HQ building, the Coomalie Building, was also significant.

WGCDr Weller said it was named after Coomalie Creek Airfield, a small World War ii airfield located south of Darwin at which 87SQN was initially formed and conducted the majority of its strategic reconnaissance missions during the war.

“The Coomalie Building provides a direct link to the spiritual home of 87SQN – Coomalie Creek,” WGCDr Weller said.

The building can accommodate 160 intelligence analysts and took 12 months to build and fit out.

“it’s a world-class intelligence facil-

ity,” WGCDr Weller said. “87SQN was re-formed in 2006 and we previously operated out of a small, interim build-ing on the base, so this new facility will allow us and the AFiNT capability to grow into the future.”

FLTLT Samantha Bradley, the commander of the 42nd Tactical intelligence Flight at rAAF Base Williamtown, was among the AFiNT personnel at the anniversary celebrations.

“it’s exciting to be an intelligence Officer in the 50th year of our specialisa-tion,” FLTLT Bradley said.

She s a id she wou ld r ecom-mend AFiNT as a role for officers or airmen and airwomen looking for a career change.

“This is a job for anyone who is willing to work hard, be challenged and work in a job where there is something different to do each day,” FLTLT Bradley said.

For more information about a career in any of the AFINT specialisations, personnel should contact their career manager or visit www.defencejobs.gov.au

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9October 10, 2013RCEAIR F News

Sixty Air Force volunteers have helped raise $36,000 for Newcastle and Hunter Legacy organisations. it was part of RAAF Base Williamtown’s effort to collect donations during national Legacy Badge Week. Under the direction of FLtLt Phil Whiteman and FLGOFF Chris Wilson, uniformed volunteers were sent to various locations around Newcastle, Raymond terrace, Maitland and Port Stephens to sell Legacy merchandise on September 6. Volunteers sold badges at the Newcastle Airport in the mornings during Legacy Week and Legacy merchandise was sold around the base.

Going forth for Legacy

OUT AND ABOUT: From left, FLGOFF Owen Hamilton, Nelson Bay Legacy Coordinator Keith Chapman and FSGt Sam Faragher.

FOUR Air Force and eight Army personnel experienced ship-board life under canvas when they sailed from Melbourne to Hobart aboard STS Lord Nelson from September 13 to 23.

Lord Nelson is one of only two square-rigged tall ships in the world that have been designed and built to enable people with a whole range of different physical abilities to sail side-by-side as equals.

The ship is halfway through an around-the-world tour and went to Sydney for the Navy’s International Fleet Review from October 3 to 11.

FLTLT Paul Scott, an instructor at the School of Air Traffic Control at RAAF Base East Sale, said the voyage was fantastic.

“All the ADF personnel on board learned heaps,” FLTLT Scott said.

“We had a great mix of people. There was no room for passengers – we were all in it together, everyone pitched in and helped.

“The daily routine comprised mess duties, bridge watch, setting and dropping sails and cleaning the ship.”

The voyage from Melbourne went inside King Island and down Tasmania’s west coast.

“As well as experiencing some high seas there were memorable mo-ments of frolicking dolphins and experiencing Tasmania’s famous

NEW CREW: From left, CPL Matthew Holland, FLtLt Paul Scott and SPR Justin teunissen prepare for their voyage aboard StS Lord Nelson from Melbourne to Hobart. Photo: Daryl Peebles

Sailing the high seas

wilderness reserves from within Port Davey,” FLTLT Scott said.

“It was an amazing experience.”CPL Matthew Holland, also of

East Sale, was pleased he had the opportunity to sail on the tall ship.

“Sailing on a tall ship with a wide variety of people of all ages and abilities while paralleling some of the most remote coastline in the world

was an amazing experience,” he said. The other RAAF members on

the voyage were PLTOFF Mitchell Brown, of 11SQN, and CPL Craig Baldwin, of 37SQN.

The STS Lord Nelson and sister ship STS Tenacious are owned and operated by the Jubilee Sailing Trust. For more information, visit www.jubilee-sailing-trust.com

TALL ORDER: the StS Lord Nelson gave the four RAAF personnel their “amazing experience”.

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10 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FNews

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Team effort in TownsvilleCPL Max Bree

FLOPPY disks, teledexes, deployable gyms and portable sewerage plants were just some of the things cleared out of the No. 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron (1AOSS) ware-house in Townsville as part of a logis-tics review that began earlier this year.

1AOSS Logistics Officer FLTLT Trent McIntosh said the team planned for a small review that quickly expanded.

“We started off conducting a warehouse review as we knew we were holding equipment from 10 to 15 years ago that was no longer required,” he said.

“It grew into a full logistics review.”Without extra staff, the 1AOSS

Supply Flight “paused” to examine its full range of logistics procedures and structure to identify the internal efficien-cies required to conduct the review.

“That put us behind in planned governance activities by two to four weeks but now we’re six months ahead,” FLTLT McIntosh said.

Apart from old stationery and obsolete computer disks, the team found things that had been hidden away for decades.

“There were old folding benches from 1952 and we archived old packing slips from the ’70s,” FLTLT McIntosh said.

“There were some things that weren’t recorded on any logistics systems, which added to the challenge, but we were still required to identify the equipment and validate the requirement to hold it.

“If an item is still current we contact the item manager or Combat Support Group (CSG) sponsor who looks into whether we keep it in the system. If the

item manager/sponsor decides it’s no longer required, they send us a disposal directive and we move it out of the ADF inventory.

“For a pen, pencil or floppy disk it’s quite simple but there’s still paperwork involved.”

Items no longer required by CSG are either sent to central storage through Joint Logistics Command, sold or disposed of.

1AOSS warehouse holdings have been reduced by 50 per cent and are planned to be reduced by a further 10 to 15 per cent. While the team started six months ago, there is still another six to 12 months of work to be done.

The warehouse review began in prep-aration for 1AOSS’ transition next year to contingency response unit 383SQN, and will also overhaul 1AOSS’s hold-ings at RAAF bare bases.

Equipment caches from Curtin, Learmonth and Scherger are being centralised in better storage conditions as part of a joint 395 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing/1AOSS activity, which has been included in the review.

“When one of the bare bases is acti-vated the required stores will be flown or driven in,” FLTLT McIntosh said.

“Previously, when the bare base caches were opened, many key items were unserviceable. You can’t have canvas tents stored in humid conditions for 12 to 24 months as they’ll simply start to rot.”

Through the application of simple logistic and efficiency methodologies, 1AOSS has saved an estimated 2500 staff hours thanks to the reduced logis-tic governance requirements, as well as about $100,000 in transport costs by combining existing airfield engineering driver training courses with bare base remediation activities.

RESTRUCTURE IN MOTION: LACW Priscilla Robinson moves a generator as part of No. 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron’s logistics restructure. Photos: CPL Max Bree

GET IT MOVING: LACW Yasmin Mackay rearranges the warehouse at No. 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron in Townsville.

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11October 10, 2013RCEAIR F News

Michael Brooke

A SMOKING ceremony was held at the Defence Police Training Centre (DPTC) on September 20 to celebrate the opening of the Dharawal indigenous gardens at Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney.

An elder from the Dharawal tribe – the traditional custodians of the land that Holsworthy Barracks occupies – waft-ed purifying smoke around more than 50 ADF personnel and stamped his feet in rhythm to the throb of a didgeridoo during the ceremony.

Commanding Officer DPTC WGCDR Andrew Roberts said the garden was established in recognition of the tradition-al custodians of the land and the many indigenous people who had served, and serve, in the ADF.

He said the three rocks in the garden symbolised the elements of land, sea and air.

“At the DPTC these three elements merge into one to make a triservice unit,” WGCDR Roberts said.

“I want the DPTC to be a leader in the ADF as an inclusive work environment, where equity and diversity are part of everyday goals and behaviours.”

WGCDR Roberts said the garden opening marked a new era in the relation-ship between his unit and the Dharawal people.

SPECIAL OCCASION: An elder from the Dharawal tribe conducts a traditional smoking ceremony to mark the opening of the Dharawal indigenous gardens at the Defence Police Training Centre (DPTC) at Holsworthy; inset, from left, COL Chris Rule, Aunty Glenda of the Dharawal community, WGCDR Andrew Roberts and GPCAPT Lisa Jackson-Pulver at the ceremony.

Garden a mark of respect

ON THAT NOTE: A didgeridoo player adds to the spectacle.

“I want to ensure that this relation-ship, along with the garden, continues to grow,” he said.

“Accordingly, I have implemented a program where all DPTC staff and students will be educated about the Dharawal people and the significance of this land to them.”

The ceremony was attended by tribal elders and indigenous ADF personnel.

WGCDR Kerry McDonald

WGCDR Michael Wright (Retd) passed away on August 11 after a brave battle with cancer. He was 60.

He was diagnosed with cancer shortly after retiring from the RAAF.

Following a brief career in the aluminium industry in Newcastle, Mick joined the RAAF as an Administration Officer, with his first posting to RAAF Base Williamtown.

He also served in Melbourne, Canberra, Wagga, Point Cook and Glenbrook, as well as on exchange with the US Air Force in America.

Mick was a very sociable and approachable officer who went

VALE WGCDR Michael Wright1952 – 2013

out of his way to help people. He was always the true profes-sional, very thorough with his work, and highly regarded by his colleagues.

Mick remained in Canberra following his retirement and continued his association with

Defence by working as a contrac-tor on the PMKeyS implementa-tion project.

He was later a private consult-ant in a Defence team to help implement F-111 Deseal/Reseal Board requirements.

Mick had a keen interest in the development of safety manage-ment systems, linking his interest in technology and that of helping people.

Mick fought a long and deter-mined battle with his health over the past 10 years. He will be remembered as a man interested in helping others, passionate about country music, and a professional at his work, wherever and what-ever he took on.

Mick will be sadly missed by all who knew him, both in and out of the RAAF.

12 13RCEAIR FCentrepiece October 10, 2013

Air Force’s AP-3C Orions play a key role in Operation Resolute, protecting Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests. Imagery Specialist LS Andrew Dakin took to the skies on a recent mission over north Australia to capture imagery of our people conducting their important work.

ORION ON PATROL

ABOVE THE CLOUDS: Above, AP-3C Orion pilots and the flight engineer conduct a low flypast of a vessel of interest.

WELL PREPARED: Right, Airborne Electronics Analyst SGT Steve Thomson prepares for the Operation Resolute mission over north Australia.

TEAMWORK: Above, Airborne Electronics Analyst SGT Steve Thomson loads a marine

smoke marker on the AP-3C Orion; above left, Airborne Electronics Analyst

WOFF Rohan Jericho observes the sea below on a radar station aboard the aircraft.

GOOD TO GO: An Aviation Technician conducts pre-flight checks on an AP-3C Orion at RAAF Base Amberley.

GOOD TO GO: Left, Flight Engineer WOFF Brendan Riley

watches the aircraft instruments as SQNLDR Andrew Sibenaler

conducts a low flypast on a vessel of interest in northern

Australian waters; far left, Navigator and Communications Officer FLGOFF Adam Williams

maps the area of operation during the patrol.

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FeatureRCEAIR F October 10, 2013 15

CREEKS, rocky outcrops and beach landings were just some of the things thrown at prototype

Hawkei vehicles during field trials in north Queensland.

Between September 11-18, three protected 4x4 prototypes were put through their paces by three airmen and about 80 soldiers from the 3rd Brigade to see if they are suitable for use in the ADF.

Tr ia l manager MAJ Nei l Williams, of the Australian Defence Test and Evaluation Office, said the results would help Defence decide if it wanted to buy the Hawkei.

“The trial is carried out in order to inform senior Defence decision makers of its useability, mobil-ity, transportability, habitability and design,” MAJ Williams said.

“During two years of develop-ment the Hawkei has already been through blast, ballistic and mobility testing, but this is the first opportu-nity to put it in the hands of ADF personnel and operate the concept within a military environment.”

He said the people testing the Hawkei were getting a good idea of what the vehicle could do.

“It is a prototype, though from what I’ve seen it’s a very capable vehicle,” he said.

“The feedback has been very positive but also included ideas for a number of areas where improve-ments can be made.

“The trial report will be consid-ered, along with other reports from the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and Defence Science and Technology Organisation, such that senior staff can make a decision on recommending it to government.”

The Hawkei, also known as a Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light, aims to give commanders the option of a protected vehicle smaller and lighter than a Bushmaster.

MAJ Chad Stonier, Hawkei test engineer from DMO, said the vehi-cle was lighter than a Bushmaster (PMV-Medium) but offered a level of protection not available in the G-Wagon.

“You would take it somewhere you can’t put a G-Wagon because of the threat level and can’t take a PMV-Medium because of weight,” he said.

“I’d say you could take it any-where the ADF goes and wants to provide protection for its people.”

Designed by Thales and assem-bled in Australia, the Hawkeis come in recon, command and utility vari-ants.

An Austrian-made six-cylinder twin-turbo diesel Steyr engine pow-ers the Hawkei through a six-speed German-manufactured automatic gearbox.

A V-shaped hull protects the underside of the cabin from mines and IEDs while Israeli-made ceram-ic composite armour is bolted to steel plates protecting the sides and roof.

“We call it a blast plate sand-wich,” MAJ Stonier said. “It allows it to withstand all sorts of small arms.”

And the Hawkei’s armoured windows wouldn’t be a weak point on the vehicle.

“We tested the windscreen with .50 cal rounds and they didn’t pen-etrate,” MAJ Stonier said.

The Hawkei weighs about seven

If a Bushmaster is too big and things are too dangerous for a G-Wagon, you could one day find yourself in a Hawkei, explains CPL Max Bree.

Hawkei a tough option

tonnes and its Israeli-made armour can be taken off to reduce weight during air transport.

“You can remove the armour and take it down 900kg,” he said.

“We gave a 30-minute require-ment to achieve that. Obviously it comes down to the team that does the work but we’ve found it takes about 20-25 minutes and the ute takes about 15 minutes.”

Instead of a starter motor and alternator, the Hawkei features a giant coil around the flywheel known as an integrated starter gen-erator.

The coil energises the flywheel to start the vehicle, then it generates power.

So much power is produced the vehicle can be used as a 65kW gen-erator thanks to external power out-lets.

Four-wheel steering is anoth-er feature that MAJ Stonier said

should prove useful if Defence decided to accept the vehicle into service.

“It’s not an option we need right now but it’s something we may need in future,” he said.

He said the ability to add trailers to the vehicles and configure them for certain tasks would future-proof the Hawkei.

“If you asked a commander what he wants in a vehicle he’d just say ‘I want the flexibility to make my own decisions when I need to’,” he said.

“We have to ask ourselves: is the war we fight in the next five to eight years going to be the one we fight today or is it going to be different?”

If the government opts to buy the vehicles, 1300 Hawkeis will replace a third of the Land Rover fleet, with the rest replaced by G-Wagons. If so, production would commence in 2016-17.

RAAF PERSPECTIVE

TESTING TIME: SGT Daniel Halsall, of 1 SECFOR, spends time behind the wheel of the Hawkei during trials in north Queensland; inset, a prototype Hawkei is put through its paces during an Australian Defence Test and Evaluation Office trial of the vehicle. Photos: CPL Max Bree

TO GIVE an Air Force perspective on the new Hawkeis, three airmen tested the vehicles alongside soldiers.

SGT Daniel Halsall, of 1 SECFOR, spent time behind the wheel and in the passenger seat of the new vehicles.

“They’re good to drive and have a good off-road capability,” he said.

“So far they can go anywhere. There’s a little bit of lag at the beginning when you start accelerating but apparently that’s a gearbox issue that’s going to be fixed. It’s not a major issue in seeing how it performs as an off-road vehicle.”

SGT Halsall found the Hawkeis to be a smooth ride that could find a place in the Security Force squadrons.

“There are plenty of uses for us as Airfield Defence Guards if it comes into service,” he said. “We could use the command variant for squadron and flight HQs or for use by the comms guys.

“The ute could be used by the Military Working Dog handlers with a dog pod on the back. And they could also be used as part of the quick reaction teams.”

SGT Halsall did have some reservations.“The engine could be protected better, so it’s not as easy to get a

mobility kill [which happens when the engine is destroyed],” he said. “If that happened, then you might have to get out and fight your way through, but you’re safe in the cabin.”

MAJ Chad Stonier, DMO’s Hawkei test engineer, said the engine bay wasn’t protected to keep the vehicle lightweight.

“It’s about trying to strike a balance between protection and sur-vivability along with the ability to make it airlift capable and make it light,” he said.

There were other areas of improvement being identified to the testing team.

“They could also put the spare wheel back on the vehicle, then you wouldn’t have to worry about the trailer,” SGT Halsall said. “It should be an optional extra not a necessity.”

MAJ Stonier said a spare tyre wasn’t on the Hawkei to reduce weight but future developments may include an attachment point to give the option of taking a spare.

“It’s the balance between what do I need as support and what I need to fight with,” he said. “You’ll want the flexibility so it can be a logistics vehicle, a fighting vehicle or a recon vehicle but you do have the option of going on run-flats if your tyres are punched.”

An Air Force mechanic and communications specialist were also involved in the testing to give their feedback on the vehicles.

All three airmen will submit reports to the trial manager on the vehicle’s possible use with the RAAF.

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17October 10, 2013RCEAIR F Air Force Improvement

A TRIAL at the Woomera Test Range (WTR) earlier this year put its staff and systems through their paces, according to WTR Executive Officer WGCDR Matt Drummond.

During the trial , the Defence Materiel Organisation’s (DMO) Land 17 Artillery Replacement Project reached a major milestone, firing the first guided artillery round on Australian soil.

WGCDR Drummond said Woomera provided a valuable capability for the testing of modern war materiel due to its size, location and low population den-sity.

“Modern test and evaluation activ-ities often have large weapon danger areas and uncertainties which make Woomera the perfect place for trials like those in Land 17,” WGCDR Drummond said.

He said Woomera had a long and proud history of successful trials dating back to 1947 but in 2008 range demand started to exceed capacity.

“The continuous improvement program implemented at the range has been pivotal in enabling the process-es and systems to be tailored to meet both an increased customer demand and scope of services since 2008,” he said.

“Woomera now conducts up to 80 trials a year, including the new inventory of long-range guided weapons. It is a very busy range and a very different one to the rocket range era between 1947 and 1977.”

Woomera adapts to changeThe Land 17 trial was the latest acid

test for the WTR’s continuous improve-ment program, systems and staff.

“All of our systems are continuously changing to achieve one outcome, that is, successful trial support to customers,” WGCDR Drummond said.

“The WTR was instru-mental in the success of the trial. The range’s processes and staff experience were adapted to plan, solve prob-lems for range clients, pro-vide trial support and conduct the trial in a safe and secure specialised test and evaluation environment.”

L a n d 1 7 A r t i l l e r y R e p l a c e m e n t P r o j e c t Manager Ben Burrows said the Woomera team was extremely professional and conducted its business efficiently and effectively.

“I would highly recommend a trial at Woomera to any other DMO project,” Mr Burrows said.

WGCDR Drummond said that, with continuous improvement, the range was in a much better place to introduce “Next Generation Woomera” to ensure specialised equipment and systems were availa-ble to support test and evaluation activi-ties for the ADF.

TEAMWORK: Staff at the Woomera Test Range were

put through their paces earlier this year during a successful

Land 17 Artillery Replacement Project trial, inset. Photos: AFI

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18 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FPersonnel

Cadets shine in WHS awardsAN AIR Force Cadet squadron has impressed at the 2013 Comcare Work Health and Safety (WHS) Awards, taking out first place in the WHS Management System category.

303SQN won for its development and implementation of a complex safety management plan to satisfy all unit-level requirements of the RAAFSafe system.

303SQN is the only cadet squad-ron in the south-western metropoli-tan area of Sydney. The squadron has 12 adult staff members who are committed to providing 75 cadets with opportunities to participate in Air Force-based youth development activities.

The squadron’s Commanding Officer, WGCDR Frank Galea, start-ed working on the RAAFSafe system for the Air Force Cadets about six years ago.

“Our Training Officer, FLGOFF (AAFC) Russell King, and I have worked on improvements to the sys-tem for about two and a half years,” WGCDR Galea said.

The improvements included having cadets form safety groups and conduct rounds with the CO, as well as involving them in six-monthly safety inspections.

“The system has been working for 18 months and we are continually making improvements.”

The WHS Management Plan is

well communicated and the CO’s WHS policy statement is displayed for everyone to see.

The squadron also holds regu-lar WHS meetings and workplace inspections, conducts an annual safety culture survey and has imple-mented a risk assessment register.

The WHS Management Plan is supported by a strong safety culture.

“To make any safety system work, you must change the culture and to do that ownership must be given to the people who are going

to make it work; in our case the cadets,” WGCDR Galea said.

“I’m still getting over the shock of winning the award, as is FLGOFF King and the rest of the squadron.”

Winners were announced at a gala dinner at Parliament House in Canberra on September 18.

Defence category winners will now be assessed by Comcare to compete nationally in the ninth annual Safe Work Australia Awards early next year.

Defence imPresses at WHs aWarDs

Category 3 – Solution to an identified workplace health and safety hazard

Winner HMAS Warramunga person-nel: sustainable performance optimi-sation through leadershipHigh Commendation Army Aviation Systems Program Office, Helicopter Systems Division: restraint quick release system designHigh Commendation Training Aircraft Systems Program Office: PC9 chromate paint hazard removalCategory 4 – Individual contribu-tion to health and safetyCategory 4a – Individual

Finalist CPL Thomas Marchant (Army): development of an aerial delivery equipment manual handling system

Category 4b – Individual with responsibility for WHS as part of their duties

Winner Robert Williams (Joint Health Command): promoting WHS complianceCategory 5 – Health and safety representative of the year

Commendation Candice Bailey (Intelligence and Security Group): identification and prevention of a health issueCategory 7 – Individual contribu-tion to rehabilitation and return to work

Commendation SGT Damien Browne (Army): best practice injury preven-tion and fitness regimes

SAFETY CULTURE: Air Force Cadet 303SQN won first place in the WHS Management System category of the Comcare WHS Awards.

Changes to DASSCPL Max Bree

APPLICATION dates for the Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS) have changed after responsibility for approval and processing of DASS applications transferred from Air Force Training Group to the Defence Learning Branch on September 15.

Assistant Director Education Assistance Schemes Jill Jackson said applications would continue to be assessed in accordance with Air Force priorities.

“The difference for Air Force appli-cants is new submission dates and new contact details,” Ms Jackson said.

With his sights set on becoming a legal officer, LAC John Andreou, of 38SQN, is studying law full-time at James Cook University with DASS assistance.

“I get a small amount of funding and I’ve always been given time to attend lectures and tutorials,” LAC Andreou said.

He joined the Air Force as an Aircraft Technician but has always had his sights set on the legal profession.

“I was interested in law when I was in school and the RAAF offered me a career path,” he said.

“I’ll finish my degree and have a good crack at going for a commission as a Legal Officer.”

For further information, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/vcdf/sites/PracticeManagement/comweb.asp?page=81937

DASS applications February 1, 2014, for subjects starting

between January and June 2014. June 1, 2014, for subjects starting

between July 2014 and December 2014. Applications may be considered after

these dates if funding is available. DASS Level 3 (transition) applications

can be sought at any time in the last 12 months of service.

DASS claims for reimbursement March 31, 2014, for semester 2, 2013. September 30, 2014, for semester 1,

2014. March 31, 2015, for semester 2, 2014.ADFA post grad [no change] November 1, 2013, for semester 1,

2014. May 1, 2014, for semester 2, 2014.

Dass KeY Dates

AMBITIOUS: LAC John Andreou has his sights set on becoming a Legal Officer. Photo: CPL Max Bree

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19October 10, 2013RCEAIR F Flightline

PROUD: AC Samuel Kelly displays his academic achievement award alongside dog Irwin following the Military Working Dog Basic Handler Course graduation parade at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: CPL Andrew Eddie

ON OPS: Above left, Personnel Capability Officer FLGOFF Cain Taylor provides executive support to Headquarters Joint Task Force 633 on Operation Slipper; right, 2IC of the health facility located at Al Minhad Air Base, FLTLT David Ball, checks equipment. Photos: PO Phil Cullinan

MULTI-TASKING: 33SQN Crew Attendant LACW Jamie Polzin prepares sandwiches for crew members aboard a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport during the East Coast Air Defence Exercise. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

I have received a posting order, what do I do next?

You should access and complete all your relocation paperwork online at Toll Transitions’ websitewww.tolltransitions.com.au/defence If you have any questions, or require assistance completingyour paperwork online call Toll Transitions on 1800 819 167.

I have moved with Toll Transitions before, do I need to complete a newInventory?

No, you can access and update the inventory from your last move online at Toll Transitions’ websitewww.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

What is the Whole of Relocation Cost (WORC) model and how does it affectme?

From August 2013, all ADF members having a removal within Australia will have their goods uplifted onany day within the week of their preferred uplift date. This new approach does not involve a change to yourremoval entitlements. Members submit their AFR as usual nominating a preferred uplift date. Toll thendetermines the best value for money uplift day within the week of your preferred date and confirms thedate with you.

How long does it take for Toll to confirm the actual uplift date?

Once you have submitted a completed AFR, and your removal has been approved, in most cases youwill receive confirmation of the actual uplift date from your case manager witihin 10 working days. Thistimeframe is dependent on you being available for Toll to complete a Pre-Removal Visit.

What is a Pre-Removal Visit (PRV)?

A Toll Transitions Consultant will attend your home to confirm your removal details. They will assess thevolume of your household furniture and effects and note any special packing requirements. The TollConsultant will also advise of your responsibilities and the removalist’s responsibilities during yourrelocation.

What if I have an operational or extenuating personal reason that dictates Ihave to move on my preferred uplift date?

You will require unit approval which must be provided to your case manager at the time you submit yourAFR. Your case manager can provide you with the applicable form or you can download it from ourwebsite.

Formore informationFreecall: 1800 819 167www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

Areyourelocatingsoon?

21October 10, 2013RCEAIR F Health

HYDRATE: It’s important to remember to replenish fluids and electrolytes during and after exercise. Photo: CPL Aaron Curran

Balance is betterWHERE water cools the

body and provides the mechanism for sweat, electrolytes are vital for a

variety of functions, including mus-cle function and nervous system body control.

Electrolytes are minerals in your body fluids that are important for mus-cle function and control the amount of water in your body.

They are lost through sweat, there-fore the more you sweat the more elec-trolytes you lose. Factors that effect hydration status also impact on electro-lyte balance.

Just like any chemical balance, too much of one component will dilute and reduce the other component.

If you only replace the water lost during periods of prolonged sweating, the electrolyte concentrations in the body are diluted. This effect, known as “electrolyte wash out”, leads to an electrolyte imbalance called hyponatremia, a condition where the concentration of the electrolyte sodium (salt) is very low.

Electrolyte balance Drink water, but not to excess.

Ensure meals are not missed as they contain electrolytes. Missing meals (as a field exercise requirement or through dieting) deprives the body of a good source of electrolytes.

Consider the use of an electrolyte replacement solution (mixed in the recommended concentrations) for activities of an extended duration or in situations where excessive sweat-ing occurs.

Monitor urine output. The aim is for urine to be as clear as possible (straw yellow to clear in colour). A useful chart can be found in the heat injury poster at http://intranet.defence .gov.au / raafweb/s i tes /SafetyCommunications/docs/02_07.pdf

LT Rob Orr is a former Army PTI and now a reservist and Assistant Professor at the Bond Institute of Sport and Health.

The body’s electrolyte balance must be maintained to minimise heat illness, LT Rob Orr explains.

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22 October 10, 2013RCEAIR FSp rt

WHEN LAC Aaron Fyfe joined the Air Force in 2009, he was Australia’s top-ranked under-19

squash player and travelled the world as a professional player.

If his rivals did not know about his prowess before the Defence Squash carnival at RAAF Base Williamtown from September 1-6, they certainly know now.

Not only did LAC Fyfe easily win the singles crown in his first turnout for ADF squash, he also figured in the four-man team, with CPL Craig Baldwin, LAC Stephen Gailer and FLTLT Ben Cosson, which won a cliff-hanging final against Navy to take the interservice title for the 19th time since the perpetual shield began in 1986 – and the 11th time in the past 12 years.

Underlining Air Force’s dominance over the other services this year was SGT Melinda Boyd who won the women’s open championship.

CPL Trevor Austin also won the C grade final, LAC Derryn Murphy teamed with LEUT Vishal Bakhoo to win the doubles and FLTLT Cossons was runner-up in A grade.

Forty-one players from Air Force, Navy and Army came from as far as Western Australia and northern Queensland to contest the champion-ship and SGT Boyd, who is also sec-retary of Defence Squash, was pleased with the roll-up both on and off the court.

“Spectators were good,” SGT Boyd said. “We had quite a few non players turning out to watch.”

SGT Boyd, who works at No. 1 Recruit Training Unit, was also pleased to see LAC Fyfe play so well.

She plays pennant squash on Thursday night with his mother, Christine.

SGT Boyd was not at Wagga when LAC Fyfe started his training there but, having an interest in the wellbeing of squash in the services, she certainly heard about it.

Air Force has continued its domination at the ADF squash championships. John Martin and Phil Whiteman report.

“I’d heard he was an excellent play-er and when the news was out that he was joining the Air Force it was a real coup for us as it would surely tighten our grip on the interservice trophy for years to come,” she said.

SGT Boyd’s success in the service titles has not come as quickly as LAC Fyfe’s. This was her ninth year com-peting. She came close in 2009 when she was runner up, but this was her first women’s singles title.

Not bad for a 36-year-old mum of eight-year-old twin boys.

Her secret: “I have to play smarter, not harder, because I am not a hard-hitting player. My strength is my short game. My drop shots are very effective and often catch people off guard.”

LAC Fyfe is now based at 3SQN at Williamtown.

He says he was thrilled to finally compete at ADF level and was even happier to win.

He started his training when he was 19 so he was too busy to compete that year, the next year he had a knee injury and last year he had work com-mitments.

When LAC Fyfe was 17 and 18, his squash career took him to England, Scotland, Switzerland, France, the Czech Republic and New Zealand.

But he came to a harsh reality.“It got to the point where I won-

dered whether I was going to be able to make a living from it,” he said.

“The top 10 players in the world are on a good wicket financially, but it’s hard for the rest.”

So at 19 he made the decision to join the Air Force.

Air Force’s win in the interservice competition was a close call against Navy.

Clay target top gunCPL Chris Whyte won the Air Force title at the Defence clay target interservice carnival at Wagga from September 9-13. CPL Whyte, of 92WG, also won a place on both skeet and down-the-line trap teams to represent the ADF at next year’s Australian Skeet Championships and the Australasian Police and Services. Thirty shooters from the three services contested the competition. CPL Whyte won the 100 target skeet handicap, with 124/124. Other fine efforts included grade wins or placings in various events for FSGT Bob Binstead, FLTLT Andrew Trott, LAC Aaron Gill, GPCAPT Tobyn Bearman and WOFF John Hennig.

Victorian golf crownAIR Force went through undefeated to win the Victorian ADF golf champion-ship at Maffra Golf Club in Gippsland from September 15-17. Among the wins were victories against the better-fancied Navy and defending champion APS. The Air Force players were: WGCDR Andy Martyn, WGCDR Jason Lind, SQNLDR Sean Hurley, SQNLDR Chuck Robinson, FLTLT Rod Oudshoorn, FLTLT Joe Slater, FLTLT Jen Slater, FLTLT Glenn Sullivan, FLTLT Ben Cowan, FLGOFF Clinton Glover, WOFF Daryl Bessell, FSGT Jeff Peacock, FSGT Glenn Bennet, FSGT Shane Woolley and CPL Symon Brady.

Heading towards TongaAN AUSTRALIAN Services Rugby Union team will play three games at home to prepare for its visit to Tonga in November. Thirty-three players – three from Air Force, 15 from Army and 15 from Navy – were chosen in the squad after the Australian Services Carnival in May. The lead-up games will be against the Melbourne Barbarians in Melbourne on Wednesday, October 23; the ACT Brumbies Provincial XV at Viking Park, Canberra on Sunday, October 27; and the Australian Barbarians at Sydney University on Friday, November 1. The team will then travel to Tonga on November 2 to play two matches against Tonga Defence Service on November 6 and 9. The Air Force players are LAC Jarred Playford, LAC Tim Briggs and LAC Chris Tuttiett.

Mirages in actionTHIS year’s Mirages Air Force over-35s rugby game will be played at Portsea Field, Duntroon, on Sunday, October 13 from 2.30pm. They will play the ACT Vets for the Northrop Grumman Cup, raising funds for Legacy and the George Gregan Foundation.

IN BRIEF

Seizing his chance

The entertaining contest ended up all square on games, with ‘for’ and ‘against’ points average settling the contest.

After all that tension, LAC Fyfe said the Air Force players were elated to get the verdict.

In the singles, LAC Fyfe and SGT Boyd beat their respective Navy and Army opponents 3-0.

Another highlight was an absorb-ing exhibition match between Matt Karwalski, Australia’s num-ber 4-ranked player and Aaron Frankcomb, the NSW squash open champion.

The Defence Sports Council also

sponsored Frankcomb to spend an afternoon coaching all the ADF play-ers at the carnival, with the aim of sharpening the skills and advancing the development of participants.

Three separate sessions were tailored to meet the requirements of beginner, intermediate and advanced level players and were well received.

Defence Squash’s acting president, CMDR Nick Barker, said the carnival was a great success and most notable because of the number of novice play-ers who had played at nationals for the first time.

LAC Aaron Fyfe brings his world-class skills to ADF

‘INTERSERVICE CHAMPIONS: LAC Aaron Fyfe, CPL Craig Baldwin, LAC Stephen Gailer and FLTLT Benjamin Cosson; top, LAC Fyfe in his singles final. Photo: LAC Craig Barrett

It got to the point where I wondered

whether I was going to be able to make a living from it. The

top 10 players in the world are on a good wicket financially, but it’s hard for the rest.” – LAC Aaron Fyfe

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23October 10, 2013RCEAIR F Sp rt

Michael Brooke

A BLOODIED and bruised Australian Services Rugby-Women (ASRU-W) team saved the best till last when it competed against the best players in the country in the 2013 National Women’s Rugby Championship in Sydney from September 25 to 28.

The Warriors lost their first three matches against some of the country’s best players but beat South Australia 17-7 in a game with a sideline that resembled a hospital ward.

Eight ASRU-W players finished the game with fractures and bruises and coach WO1 Jo Downes commended the women.

“It was an outstanding and coura-geous effort on the back of three very hard games against bigger and better teams,” WO1 Downes said.

Seven Air Force players were part of the team – run-on players CPL Brooke Saunders, CPL Rebekah Allen who was team captain, LACW Lucinda Tomlinson and OFFCDT Rachel

Crothers, and reserves FLTLT Margie Quinn, PLTOFF Liz von Finster and LACW Lorna Hill.

NO. 15 Rachel Crothers was the first to surpass the opposition and score ASRU-W’s first try.

CPL Allen dislocated an elbow in the first half against Queensland and missed the last game.

CPL Saunders, who had played at No. 15 in previous years, won the team’s best forward trophy.

WO1 Downes said the championship was a big step up for the team.

“But we have a young team and they will benefit from the experience,” she said.

WO1 Downes said strong perfor-mances by several ASRU-W players had them in contention for selection in the Australian women’s team.

The national team will be named later this month.

The scores in ASRU-W’s first three games were 22-11 to NSW Country, 27-5 to Western Australia and 19-7 to Queensland.

TWELVE Air Force personnel are part of Defence Hockey Association (ADHA) men’s and women’s teams which will play in a three-Test series against their British counterparts in England.

They were among a party of 46 ADF men and women who left Sydney on September 30.

The tests against United Kingdom Combined Service Hockey are scheduled for October 14, 15 and 17, before which the ADHA teams will play a game against each single service.

Between the single service games and the test series, the ADF party will also do a three-day battlefield tour of the Western Front in France.

The squad will attend an evening ceremony at the Menin Gate, Ypres, where players will lay a wreath and one member will read the Ode.

ADHA hosted the RAF in 2010 and the RN in 2011, with the ADF men and women winning both series. But team manager CPO William McConnell thinks this will be more challenging.

“This will be a lot tougher on their home soil,” CPO McConnell said.

The teams were selected after the ADF com-bined services championships in Sydney in May and competed in the Australian Country Championships in August. A number of shadow players and staff have replaced personnel who became unavailable due to service needs.

The team includes some bright up-and-com-ers, including OFFCDT Nicholas Hill, who was selected in the Australian Country men’s under-21 squad.

The Air Force representatives are: Men’s team: LAC Warwick Smith, LAC Chris Fazel, LAC Ryan Grocott, OFFCDT Nicholas Hill, LAC Andrew Nash and LAC Michael Anderson. Women’s team: FLTLT Leigh Molloy, WOFF Lara McAulifee, LAC Megan MacAuslan, LACW Tara Woodward, FLGOFF Alana Armstrong and FLTLT Lee Carruthers.

Scotty Tobias

AIR Force lawn bowls is well placed to wrestle the trophy from Navy when Australian Services Bowls Association stages the national service champion-ship in Brisbane this month.

Air Force bowlers were in fine touch when an ADF team tangled with some of the world’s best players during the just-finished NSW Champions League.

The team, ADF Thunder, won two of its nine matches and gained enormous experience and exposure for ADF lawn bowls.

Leading for ADF Thunder was FSGT Shaun Keitel.

The service championship will be held at Swifts Bowls Club, Booval, from October 14 to 18.

Air Force’s last service title win was in 2010 and the team goes to Brisbane with an arguably stronger line-up.

UK Tests for ADF hockeyGritty finale

by ASRU women

“Over the past few years, several topline bowlers have been absent due to work commitments, and the return of these players will strengthen our team,” FSGT Keitel said.

“If we get a little bit of luck, we may be able to sneak another victory.”

Air Force team manager SQNLDR Ian Lane is confident, too.

“We’ll go very close,” he said. “We are always competitive and

never give up.”

POSITIVE OUTLOOK: FSGT Shaun Keitel ... upbeat about chances at service titles.

Air Force eyes lawn bowls service title

DIZZY LIMITS: CPL Brooke Saunders gets her hand to the ball during a line-out against Western Australia.

Photo: CPL Amanda Campbell

IN BRIEF

Dinner marks 50 years of rugbyTHE Australian Services Rugby Union 50th anni-versary dinner will be held in the John Eales Room at the Sydney Cricket Ground on November 1. For more information, visit www.servicesrugby.asn.au

Battle of the Beasts festivalEIGHT Air Force cyclists are expected to be among the starters for the Battle of the Beasts mountain bike festival in Canberra on October 19 and 20. The races, supporting Soldier On, will be in a variety of formats for solo riders, pairs and teams.

TALEOFTWO CHAMPS

SP RTOctober 10, 2013

Our 11th interservice squash title in 12 years

LAC Aaron Fyfe used to travel the world as a professional player, now he is the new ADF men’s singles squashchampion. SGT Melinda Boyd has been trying to win the ADF women’s singles title for nine years and she has finally cracked it.Together, they have helped extend Air Force’s dominance.

P22

GOOD JOB: LAC Aaron Fyfe in the final at RAAF Base Williamtown; below, SGT Melinda Boyd with her trophy. Photos: LAC Craig Barrett

Twelve RAAFies ready for UK tests

P23