AIRF RCE - defence.gov.au · FLGOFF Sarah Fraser, PLTOFF Andrew Willersdorf, SGT Richard...

AIRF RCEVol. 57, No. 21, November 5, 2015 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

CAF visits bases to reveal Air Force’s future P2 Spartan airdrop training

starts in Australia P5

ALL THE RIGHT MOVES P14-15

CPL Sarah relocates aircraft spare parts at the Air Task Groups logistics supply store in the Middle East Region. Aircraft spare parts are stored in reusable metal containers packed with foam to ensure they are not damaged during transport. Photo: SGT Guy Young

Keeping stocks loaded as

Operation Okra expends the most

munitions since the Vietnam War

DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

Acting deputy editorAurora Daniels: (02) 6266 7707

ReportersWO2 Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614SGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304LS Jayson Tufrey: (02) 6266 7606

CONTACT [email protected] Editor, Air Force News, R8-LG-047, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnewsFax: (02) 6265 6690

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DISCLAIMERAir Force News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence News and Multimedia. It is printed under contract by Horton Media Australia Ltd. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of Defence or Air Force News. Every advertisement is subject to Directorate of Defence News and Multimedia approval and the Directorate of Defence News and Multimedia may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. 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 and Multimedia. Defence does not endorse the products or services published in advertisements.

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RCEAIR F

Living the Air Force Values: RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORK

AIRMSHL Leo Davies talks to personnel at RAAF Base Richmond as part of a series of forums, to be held at all bases, on his plans for the coming four years. Photo: CPL Veronica O’Hara

Grilling the chief

2 November 5, 2015RCEAIR FNews

FLGOFF Carl Curtain

FUTURE aircraft purchases, inte-grating civilian contractors and maintaining workloads in the face of increased deployment were some of the issues raised by members from two RAAF bases during Q&A-style forums with the Chief of Air Force.

AIRMSHL Leo Davies held ses-sions in October with staff at RAAF Base Richmond and RAAF Base East Sale to discuss his intent for his four-year tenure.

During his init ial address, AIRMSHL Davies spoke of the “three themes” articulated in his recently published Commander’s Intent – People, Joint Effects and Plan Jericho.

While the objectives were clear,

he emphasised that broad support, from at least within Air Force, would be needed to achieve them.

He explained the importance of attaining work place flexibility and seeking professional development opportunities.

“A flexible work environment means different things to different people,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“These are opportunities to help Air Force understand what best prac-tice is and what flexible workplaces look like.

“It does not mean all bases and all units have the same answer at the same time.”

He encouraged members to be more active in problem-solving.

“We need to move away from being risk averse to managing risk

and start making decisions that don’t warrant involving the commanding officer,” he said.

“We need to have faster, more practical acquisition and redevelop-ment.”

AIRMSHL Davies gave the example of the gymnasium at Richmond, which is a demounta-ble building, as opposed to the new multi-million dollar gymnasium at East Sale.

While the new C-27J Spartan will initially be based at Richmond, the aircraft will eventually be moved to RAAF Base Amberley.

East Sale however, will soon be home to 22 new Pilatus PC-21 and such longer-term facilities are required to support personnel for pilot training.

He reinforced his intention to continue Plan Jericho, which will transform the service into a fifth-generation Air Force.

“Plan Jericho’s ideas for the workforce need to be tactical and practical,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“I encourage you to find some-thing that doesn’t work, explore why, find out what is needed to fix it and explore why not.”

He discussed the benefits of Air Force staff working closely with Army and Navy.

“We have to have the Army and Navy with us on our path to fifth-generation transformation – and to allow them to help us as well,” he said.

AIRMSHL Davies will hold sim-ilar forums as he visits other bases.

Many steps in the right direction

The Back2Base team, from left, FLGOFF Christie Stubbins, FLTLT Aileen Nundu, CPL Trevor Austen, FLGOFF Sarah Fraser, PLTOFF Andrew Willersdorf, SGT Richard O’Connell, SQNLDR Tony Wood and FLTLT Tanushree Das, at RAAF Base Amberley at the end of their 488km run. Photo: CPL Ben Dempster

A TEAM of eight Air Force members, calling itself Back2Base, ran 488km from Bundaberg to Ipswich in Queensland from October 12-16 in support of White Ribbon Australia.

The team’s efforts raised $7027.20 for the campaign to end male-led violence against women.

Back2Base made stopovers along the way to meet with White Ribbon ambassadors and attend events to highlight the cause.

Air Mobility Group is undergoing training and educa-tion to become a White Ribbon Australia-accredited workplace.

This process recognises the positive role men play in pre-venting violence against women.

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3November 5, 2015RCEAIR F News

Rescue fuels a first KC-30A comes to the rescue of a US Hornet pilot having engine trouble

New badge of honour

In a scenario similar to the mid-air refuelling of the US Hornet, an Air Refuelling Operator on a KC-30A

Multi Role Tanker Transport conducts the first air-to-air refuelling of a RAAF E-7A Wedgetail (the view from which

is shown below), on coalition operations above Iraq. Photo: CPL Ben Dempster

‘The Hornet had dropped bombs from one of its

wings, making his aircraft less stable,

which when combined with the loss of an engine, makes refuelling in mid-air a real

challenge.– SQNLDR Jamie,

KC-30A captain

FLTLT Michael McGirr

IN AN Australian first, a RAAF KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport has refuelled a United States Marine Corps (USMC) F/A-18C Hornet that was having engine trouble over Iraq.

The USMC Hornet was flying a combat mission against Daesh over Northern Iraq when it was forced to shut down one of its two engines due to a mechanical issue.

Short on fuel, the Hornet requested air-to-air refuelling support from the RAAF KC-30A.

A challenging feat at the best of times, air-to-air refuelling with an engine-out Hornet had only ever been conducted in flight testing scenarios and never before from the RAAF aircraft over a war-zone.

KC-30A captain SQNLDR Jamie said the situation demanded some brainstorming and clever flying.

“The hardest part was that the Hornet couldn’t maintain the required altitude or speed that we normally refuel at due to the hostile environment over Iraq,” SQNLDR Jamie said.

“The first option was to accept refuel-ling at a reduced speed, lower than normal-ly required, and refuelling at that speed had never been done by me or my crew.

“The other option was to do what we call tobogganing, where we refuel while descend-ing to allow the Hornet to gather more speed. This option would have brought us below a safe altitude, so we went with the first option.”

SQNLDR Jamie said the USMC pilot demonstrated incredible skill and the RAAF KC-30A and USMC Hornet were able to con-duct the complicated manoeuvre in order to enable the jet to refuel, fly out of Iraq and land safely.

“The Hornet had dropped bombs from one of its wings, making his aircraft less stable, which when combined with the loss of an engine, makes refuelling in mid-air a real challenge.

“He did a great job in the end and it was a good feeling to help him out.

“If we hadn’t been able to assist, he would certainly have had to make a less than ideal landing in Iraq.”

The Australian Air Task Group comprises six F/A-18A Hornet aircraft, a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport and an E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft.

As part of Operation Okra they partici-pate in close air support operations, air-to-air refuelling and airborne command and control in Iraq and Syria as part of the international coalition formed to disrupt and degrade the Daesh threat.

MAJ Cameron Jamieson

AIR Force’s enduring presence in the Middle East has been assigned a new name and a Task Group badge, reflecting the dynamic nature of their essential task.

Formerly Air Component Coordination Element – Middle East Region, the C-130J Hercules aircraft intra-theatre transport group is now called the Air Mobility Task Group (AMTG). The new title allows the AMTG to stand alongside other tasks groups assigned to the region, such as Task Group Afghanistan, Task Group Taji and the Air Task Group.

While the AMTG is C-130J-focused, other aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III strategic trans-port aircraft are assigned to the task group when need arises.

AMTG Commander WGCDR Scott Wardle said the new name

reflects the change in scope for the organisation.

“The task group has been in-the-atre for over a decade, however with the departure of the AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft and the Heron unmanned aer-ial vehicles to Australia our focus is now on air mobility,” he said.

The new name also highlights the increased operational tempo for the transport aircraft fol-lowing the assignment to operations in Iraq of the Air Task Group, Task Group Taji and the Special Operations Task Group.

Support to these groups must be conducted while keeping the flow of personnel and supplies into Afghanistan and other countries in the region to support troops.

“With the commencement of

Operation Okra last year we are pri-marily operating into two countries with distinct differences in terrain and threats to the aircraft,” WGCDR

Wardle said.Personnel were presented

their patches at a parade where WGCDR Wardle said the badge was designed by former unit member SGT Xavier Sherriff.

“The patch depicts a Golden Eagle, which is

indigenous to the Middle East region,” WGCDR Wardle said. “The Eagle stands proud before a globe, overlayed with the Southern Cross centred on the Middle East.

“The eagle is a traditional sym-bol of air power and underlines our strength and our ability to remain aloft for extended periods of time.”

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SENIOR Defence leaders joined with personnel in Canberra to mark ADF Mental Health Day on October 16.

VCDF VADM Ray Griggs was joined by Commander Joint Health RADM Robyn Walker and representa-tives of the three services and Defence APS to mark the day over a morning tea at Russell Offices.

World Mental Health day falls on October 10 each year and since 2012 the ADF has conducted activities to coincide with the day, highlighting a particular aspect of mental health. The theme for 2015 was Take Action.

In a video message to Defence per-sonnel, the senior leadership focused on three important goals: To encourage open and honest dis-

cussion about mental health issues; To promote awareness of the range

of support services available to members and their families; and

To encourage people to seek help early.Speaking at the morning tea,

VADM Griggs said taking action required physical and moral courage, resilience and compassion.

“It’s an individual responsibility and our collective duty, no matter our rank, our role, our position, or where we are,” he said.

Service in the ADF can pose sig-nificant pressures on its members and their physical and mental health. Frequent relocations, long separations

Smashing the stigma Mental health and wellbeing go to the top of the action list

from friends and family, demanding and sometimes dangerous working conditions, can all cause stress.

Defence continues to make signifi-cant investments in resilience training, early intervention, treatment and reha-bilitation programs, and building on its understanding through research pro-grams to ensure people are prepared and supported throughout their careers.

For more information about Defence’s mental health programs and where to get help, visit www.defence.gov.au/health/healthportal

GETTING HELPPERSONNEL with mental health issues have a range of options available to help:

Speak to your chain of command

All-hours support line – 1800 628 036

Defence family helpline – 1800 624 608

Veterans and Veterans’ Families Counselling Service – 1800 011 046

Lifeline – 13 11 14

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MORE than 150 members turned out to the annual Mental Health Day Breakfast at RAAF Base Darwin’s Airmen’s Mess on October 9.

In welcoming guests and members to the breakfast, Senior ADF Officer RAAF Base Darwin WGCDR Wes Perrett said mental health was both an individual and collective responsibility.

“It is important that we all look after ourselves, assist others when we think something is wrong and to always promote a positive work culture.

“Let’s take the time to ask our colleagues and friends if they are OK,” WGCDR Perrett said.

The morning’s guest speaker was Acting Assistant Commissioner Brent Warren, from the Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services,

The breakfast was followed by unit mental health forums as well as some fun fitness activities at the base’s gymnasium.

The Department of Veterans Affairs provided members at the breakfast with a care pack containing fishing lures, ice packs and other items promoting mental health.

WGCDR Wes Perrett addresses the Mental Health Day Breakfast

at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: Simona Di Toro-Bell

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Spartans dropping in Container delivery systems fill the sky above western Sydney during airdrop training

Supporting the masses

Eamon Hamilton

AIRDROP training has been con-ducted by No. 35 Squadron (35SQN) C-27J Spartan crews for the first time in Australia.

From October 7 to 9, the Spartans delivered 16 Container Delivery Systems (CDSs) to the Londonderry Drop Zone near RAAF Base Richmond.

The airdrops used both C-27J Spartans that have been delivered to Australia, with the second aircraft having arrived only in September.

It marked one of the first steps towards realising one of the key roles for 35SQN according to CO WGCDR Bradley Clarke.

“This aircraft is intended to sustain personnel on the battlefield, and air-drop is a big part of how we do that,” he said.

“Other RAAF aircraft may carry bigger payloads, but the Spartan can operate from significantly more air-fields and will, typically, be based much closer to the frontline.

“As they have in the past, the intent is for 35SQN to work in close proximity to Army, allowing us to be responsive and flexible in delivering cargo and personnel.”

The Spartan’s cargo bay can carry a total of 6 CDSs.

CDSs can be delivered day or night and the capability is a joint effort.

Army units such as No. 176 Air Dispatch Squadron will typically prepare each CDS before it is loaded onto a transport aircraft.

Accurate delivery on to the tar-get requires the C-27J crew to pre-cisely manoeuvre the aircraft to the wind-adjusted drop point and set the aircraft at the correct altitude, speed and deck angle. Once released by the

crew, the load moves under gravity along floor rollers until it exits via the rear-mounted cargo ramp.

A static-line inside the cargo bay will pull the parachute release cord as the CDS exits the ramp.

This allows the payload – as much as one tonne of supplies and ammuni-tion – to descend to the ground.

The CDS is also used for human-itarian and disaster relief missions, having been used by No. 37 Squadron

Hercules to deliver water, food and shelter to Iraqi citizens in 2014.

The importance of aerial delivery to several missions means it will be a fixture of 35SQN’s C-27J training.

“Through November, we’ll dem-

onstrate our ability to deliver up to six CDSs in a single pass over a drop zone,” WGCDR Clarke said.

“We are working towards delivery of freefall paratroops and static-line paratroops in the near future”

LEUT Andrew Ragless

ADF personnel in the largest Combat Support Unit deployed to the Middle East Region have returned home following a success-ful six-month rotation.

The 192 members of the Combat Support Unit Rotation 13 (CSU-13) provided support to ADF and coali-tion aviation operations, including the newly established Air Task Group in its fight against Daesh.

CO CSU-13 WGCDR Robert Graham said the unit rose to a signifi-cant challenge.

“The mission to provide com-bat support to the Air Task Group expanded during the last rotation,” he said.

“However, CSU-13 was the first rotation to mount, work up and deploy as a much larger formed body.

“We’ve moved a phenomenal amount of cargo and passengers and achieved all of our deployment tar-gets in the last six months.”

CSU is a key provider in sustain-ing air operations throughout the Middle East, all the time maintain-ing support to other ADF units in the region.

Besides supplying material goods, CSU also provides services such as air load teams, aircraft security, air-field engineering, accommodation, medical, welfare and garrison sup-port.

Speaking at a parade to mark the Transfer of Authority from CSU-13 to CSU-14, Commander JTF 633, RADM Trevor Jones said the CSU’s functions are critical to enabling the delivery of air combat power.

“The CSU achieves many things across many areas of endeavour and their efforts are greatly appreciated,” he said.

For the duration of their six-month deployment, the CSU-13 Air Load Team handled 1400 pal-lets, more than 5000 passengers and nearly 6.5 million pounds of cargo including vehicles.

More than 88.5 million litres of aviation fuel was delivered to ADF and coalition aircraft and 26 airfield

and 110 domestic fire response calls were handled by CSU aviation fire fighters.

There were 27 tactical aeromedi-cal evacuations (AME) handled by CSU medical staff and more than 10,000 items of explosive ordnance were disposed of.

Incoming Commander CSU-14 WGCDR Iain Carty said CSU-13 had performed an outstanding job.

“They have maintained a very high tempo and provided superior combat support to the Air Task Group and the coalition,” he said.

“We are hoping to sustain and improve on what they’ve been able to deliver.”

A 35SQN C-27J Spartan releases a Container Delivery System over the Londonderry Drop Zone.Inset below, Air Movements Training and Development Unit and 35SQN personnel load a Container Delivery System onto a C-27J.Photos: CPLs Veronica O’Hara and David Said

Commander JTF633 RADM Trevor Jones and outgoing CO CSU-13 WGCDR Robert Graham, right, watch as CO CSU-14 WGCDR Iain Carty signs the Transfer of Authority certificate. Photo: CPL Oliver Carter

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CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies con-gratulated FSGT Christine Williams on reaching the milestone of having made more than 100 donations to the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, as they both took a break from their official duties to make an early morn-ing visit to the Canberra Donor Centre as part of the 2015 Defence Blood Challenge.

FSGT Williams has been donat-ing blood for 15 years and plasma for 12 years. The Red Cross 100 Club is a select group of individuals who make the time in their busy schedules to donate blood year after year.

FSGT Williams said blood donation was something she took a lot of pride in, and didn’t see it as a chore.

“It’s a good thing to do. People always need blood and it makes such a difference to their lives,” she said.

“Overall it is a pretty easy thing to do when you are fit and healthy and it’s nice to take some time out to just sit and relax while giving your donation.”

She has been so vocal in advocating for people to donate that both her sons have also become donors.

“They are giving whole blood at this point, which means they can only give every three months,” she said.

“Hopefully in the future they get to a point where they can give plasma or platelets and donate more frequently.”

The reason FSGT Williams is so keen to champion plasma and platelet

donations is because of the multiple uses and benefits these blood products offer. Although whole blood donations are important, plasma and platelets are often used to treat chronic and life-threatening conditions and can make a huge difference to the recipient.

While FSGT Williams donated

blood outside of the Defence Blood Challenge she is also a strong advocate for participating and representing Air Force.

“The Defence Blood Challenge is great because it increases blood dona-tions, encourages people who may be first timers and of course fuels the

friendly rivalry between the services,” she said.

AIRMSHL Davies said that it was in FGST Williams’ character to have achieved something so significant for a worthy cause.

“My impression of FSGT Williams has been that if she can do one more

Giving to the 100 Club Flight sergeant records triple digits with her donations to the Red Cross Blood Service

FSGT Christine Williams is congratulated by CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies and Billy the Blood Drop at the Australian Red Cross Donor Centre in Canberra. Photo: FSGT Kev Berriman

thing, she’ll do that,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“So one more donation, then another donation, quickly became 100, and I wouldn’t be surprised if she goes to 200. She’s that kind of person.”

AIRMSHL Davies personally under-stands the huge difference made by blood and plasma donations to many Australians every day, having had first-hand experience of its importance in his family.

“My mother suffered with multiple myeloma for 10 years and she had regu-lar blood transfusions,” he said.

AIRMSHL Davies also wasn’t surprised that Air Force consistently donates the most per capita out of the services during the Defence Blood Challenge.

“I really like that statistic. I think there’s something about Air Force that says: if we want to do the job, we’re going to get it done the best way we can,” he said.

“There’s even a bit of section, squadron, and base rivalry each year to see who can donate the most, and that’s really inspiring I think.”

“We inspire each other.”The challenge runs from September

1 to December 8 and Red Cross dona-tion vans will visit a range of Air Force bases throughout that period.

For more information visit www.donateblood.com.au/defence

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Cpl Mark Doran

A DUAL-duty Forces Entertainment Tour has reported for action in the Middle East Region (MER), provid-ing home-grown Australian laughs and music.

One team, led by street-wise come-dian Luke Heggie and Australian-E g y p t i a n f u n ny m a n K h a l e d Khalafalla, headed for Afghanistan via a C-130J Hercules.

The musical line-up included Queensland’s soulful duo Megan Samardin and Chris Graham; the country-rock/rockabilly sound of Lonesome Train, featuring Christian Power, Doug Dekroo and Rob Laurie; and Sydney band the Potbelleez, fea-turing Jonny Sonic and Dave Goode.

Comedians Adam Rozenbachs and the Nelson Brothers joined the high-

energy Melbourne rock band Tequila Mockingbyrd, with Estelle Artois, Jess Riley and Josie O’Toole, for concerts at Camp Baird and other southern Afghanistan support bases.

At the end of the final show, Lonesome Train’s front man, Power, presented a guitar signed by the enter-tainers on behalf of Fender Musical Instruments Australia to Deputy Commander JTF633 BRIG Nagy Sorial for use by deployed troops.

Rozenbachs found more material for his routine in the MER. “I was wandering around the base and found clothes dryers in the laundry when it is 500 degrees outside,” he said.

“I also liked the colour charts for urine in the toilets. My joke is I took one of the charts home and took it to Bunnings so I could paint my house Severely Dehydrated.

Service with a smile

Comedians and identical twins Chris and Justin Nelson entertain troops during a Forces Entertainment Tour in the MER. Photo: CPL Mark Doran

Entertainers give troops a taste of home

‘I thought this tour was an excellent opportunity to

give back to our troops.

– Estelle Artois, Tequila Mockingbyrd

“I pick up on things that people who are living here take as the norm, but coming here from a civilian back-ground, I just say ‘that’s not normal’.”

Rozenbachs said his first Forces Entertainment tour was to Afghanistan in 2014.

“During my first tour I had a picture in my head from growing up watching

M*A*S*H, so to have that debunked was cool. But to see the processes and adapt to the lifestyle of the soldiers was a new experience,” he said.

“This tour was a bit more relaxed and I was able to help out the other entertainers with what to expect here – like not treating the mess as a hotel.”

Rozenbachs found the troops were happy to share their military experi-ences and talk about their role.

“They are also happy to answer our stupid questions and are extremely sharing about where they have been and what they have done,” he said.

“I guess that someone who does their job every day during their deployment may not get to share it with anyone.”

Tequila Mockingbyrd’s Artois said the band was intrigued by the concept of Forces Entertainment.

“We love to play gigs, but we had never before seen playing music as a way to provide a service to people as we did for our fellow countrymen who are protecting our freedom,” she said.

“As an Australian, I thought this tour was an excellent opportunity for music to give back to our troops.

“It was also impressive to have an audience who still wanted to get up and dance while drinking only water.”

When the entertainers visited the Australian Air Task Group at their multinational operating base for a con-cert they toured fighter aircraft and were able to speak to Australian and US pilots and ground troops.

For Artois the most amazing part of the tour was witnessing the take-off of the fighter jets.

“The sound they make and how fast they go is incredible,” she said.

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LCPL Kyle Genner

THE first Pacific Rim Junior Enlisted Leadership Forum was held in Canberra in September bring-ing together junior leaders from 12 nations in the spirit of camaraderie and friendship.

WOFF-AF Mark Pent rea th described the event as the next step in nurturing and advancing international engagement with partner air forces from across the Pacific.

“While there continues to be strong international engagement at the warrant officer level we have done very little to profession-ally develop our airmen across the region,” he said.

“To continue to develop our cor-poral’s leadership skills and knowl-edge of air power is vital. It’s also important for junior leaders to gain a greater understanding of the cul-tural differences across the region and build friendships with their inter-national peers.”

The Command Chief Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force Pacific Command, Chief Master Sergeant Harold Hutchison, said the Forum’s focus was to pro-vide participants with the information and tools, with the emphasis being on leadership development to grow tomorrow’s senior enlisted leaders.

Fifteen junior leaders from as far as Mongolia and the Maldives

took part beginning with a tour of Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial.

After some short ice-breaker activities the participants engaged with interactive presentations on air-power and leadership case studies from a multitude of guest speakers.

CPL Laikin McCormick, of 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, said she got a lot out of having open discussion with service chiefs.

“The biggest message I took from this was the importance of active lis-tening,” she said.

“To be a strong leader you also need to be a strong follower and communication is key up and down the chain.”

LAC Bruce Foster, of 1 Squadron, said he was very impressed with the presentations.

“USAF CMSgt Timothy Horn was a well-read, articulate and had a very polished presentation on leader-ship values and styles,” he said.

“It was a lot to digest but I’ll cer-tainly be taking this back to my unit.”

WOFF-AF Pentreath said the forum was an outstanding success.

“All the outcomes were achieved and the participants even put together a Facebook page. They can stay in touch, share ideas and continue the discussion,” he said.

“That alone speaks volumes and is a great step forward for the region.”

Junior leaders show the way Nurturing and advancing international engagement across Pacific air forces

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies gives a presentation to the Pacific Region Junior Enlisted Airmen and Airwoman at the Australian Defence College.Inset, junior leaders take part in a leadership challenge. Photos: SGT William Guthrie

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Driving change Warrant officer awarded Rolls-Royce Eagle trophy

SGT Dave Morley

THE technical skills of a RAAF Base Williamtown warrant officer were recognised at a dinner hosted in Canberra on October 13, by CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies.

Warrant officer technical stand-ards WOFF Stanley Davis received the prestigious Rolls-Royce Eagle Trophy for 2015.

He said the award was a career highlight that would take some time to be beaten.

“To be honest, I was a little shocked when I got the phone call from GPCAPT Daniel Reid two weeks ago,” he said.

“I think my words in response to the phone call were ‘what for’?”

“I feel t ruly honoured to be chosen for the Rolls-Royce Eagle Trophy and the CAF Commendation that came with it, but for me I feel as if I have just been doing my job.”

According to WOFF Davis, his past five years in the Air Force have probably been the most exciting.

“Certainly being part of the team introducing Super Hornet was a career highlight,” he said.

“Now as part of the HQ Air Combat Group (ACG) engineering

team, I have loved the opportuni-ty to drive and implement change within our technical workforce to support and improve the way we do business and support our future workforce requirements.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the

challenges and, most importantly, the successes we have had intro-ducing the Electronic Record of Training and Employment (eRTE), stream-lining our technical authori-sation process and helping develop the Air Force Technical Workforce Contextualised Leadership program.

“These are things that I know will improve life for our technicians in ACG.”

The CAF Commendation’s cita-tion read, “You have displayed exceptional technical mastery and professionalism in overcoming problems associated with the trans-fer of personnel workforce history and authorisation records into the electronic database within a tight timeframe”.

“You have applied yourself diligently to all tasks, ensuring the smooth and timely transition to the new Electronic Record of Training and Employment system.”

The Eagle Trophy is a silver rep-lica of a Rolls-Royce Eagle VIII engine that powered the Air Force’s first aircraft, the Fairey III D at the formation of the RAAF on March 31, 1921.

Rolls-Royce presented the first Eagle Trophy at its 75th anniversary in 1996.

... I have loved the opportunity to drive and implement change within our technical workforce to support and improve the way we do business and support our future workforce requirements.

WOFF Stanley Davis, Rolls-Royce Eagle Trophy recipient

2015 Rolls-Royce Eagle Trophy recipient WOFF Stanley Davis and his wife Catherine at the Rolls-Royce Eagle Trophy presentation dinner held in Canberra. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

VETERANS or the families of deceased veterans who forfeited their medals have been urged to contact Defence.

Assistant Defence Minister Darren Chester made the call on October 7 as he announced the government had received the Report of the Inquiry into the Refusal to Issue Entitlements to, Withholding and Forfeiture of Defence Honours and Awards.

The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal was directed to inquire into Defence decisions to withhold med-als from serving personnel as far back as 1939.

“The vast majority of veterans who forfeited their medals served during WWII,” Mr Chester said.

“The government is considering the report and will later respond formally to the chair of the Defence Honours and

Awards Appeals Tribunal and the com-munity.”

Meantime, Mr Chester called for veterans, or the families of deceased veterans, who forfeited their medals to contact Defence.

“There is no register of withheld or forfeited medals, so it is not known how many veterans forfeited their awards,” he said.

He said veterans and their families greatly valued service medals and this was evident from the submissions made to the enquiry.

Veterans or their families can contact Defence on 1800 333 362.

Further information is available at www.defence.gov.au/medals and the full report is available at https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/inquiries/completed-inquiries

Call for vets to apply for forfeited awards

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Intelligence school opens its doorsTHE Defence Force School of Intelligence (DFSI) opened its doors to family and friends of staff and trainees during an open day on September 17.

More than 100 guests accepted the invi-tation to tour the training facility at Kokoda Barracks, Canungra.

Guests had a unique insight into the use of 3D imagery, which supports military targeting, as well as an opportunity to try out the “Radio In A Box”, which psychological operations soldiers use to share information with target audiences.

Other activities included an extensive dis-play of weapons, a NVG scavenger hunt and a mock combat intelligence cell.

As well as opening the doors to friends and family, the school is opening its doors to an increasing number of trainees.

DFSI has scheduled additional courses from 2016 to ensure that new recruits and trade transfers get the training they need in the mini-mum time necessary.

The corps is also working to simplify the application process to transfer to AUSTINT in a bid to fast-track trade and lateral transfers.

Personnel interested in transferring to AUSTINT can get in contact with the Employment Category Management Cell on (03) 8481 7140 or email [email protected]

Strong leadership New Air Command Warrant Officer takes up her roleWOFF Michelle Foley has been appointed Air Command Warrant Officer.

She posted out of Aerospace Operational Support Group (AOSG) in October, after 18 months of dedicated service, to take up her new position.

WOFF Foley’s influence was felt in many areas in AOSG, but no more so than in the way she drove positive cultural change within the group and led it towards the future transition to the Air Warfare Centre.

One of the many ways this was achieved was by improving leadership and communication.

“Leadership is crucial to the modern Air Force. It is the way of harnessing our people to best achieve a desired outcome,” WOFF Foley said.

“The AOSG leadership program brought together groups of all ranks, from airmen to offic-ers, to find ways to influence values and behav-iours and strength of character, drive innovation and encourage our personnel to focus on where they fit within the delivery of Air Power.”

Commander AOSG AIRCDRE Stephen Meredith acknowledged how AOSG leadership had developed during WOFF Foley’s time and wished her all the best in taking up her new position.

“WOFF Foley will be missed at AOSG, but her appointment to Air Command Warrant Officer is a reflection of her inspirational leadership style and unwavering dedication,” AIRCDRE Meredith said.

“I wish her all the best as she takes on her new challenge.”

WOFF Jock Lindsay was welcomed into the position of AOSG Warrant Officer.

He said he was looking forward to building on the work of WOFF Foley.

Aerospace Operational Support Group Chief of Staff GPCAPT Greg Weller presents WOFF

Michelle Foley with a thank you gift from the team as she is posted to Headquarters Air

Command as the Air Command Warrant Officer.Photo: CPL Colin Dadd


Aslan thanked Rotation 8 personnel recognised for their South Sudan serviceTHE eighth rotation of the Australian contingent deployed to Operation Aslan has been farewelled and awarded medals as part of the UN Mission in South Sudan from March 18 to October 5.

The parade on September 19 was held at Australia House and was overseen by members of Rotation 9 that commenced their tour on September 18.

FLTLT Karl Woodward was awarded an Australian Defence Force Commendation for his outstanding duties as the Officer in Charge of the National Support Element that provides integral support to Australian Defence Personnel deployed to South Sudan.

“One of the highlights for me was being involved in a United Nations Police foot patrol within the Bor UN International Displaced Persons camp where I saw first hand the struggles and desperation of the local South Sudanese people, especially the children,” FLTLT Woodward said.

“I am proud to have represented the Australian people as part of our nation’s contribution to the United Nations mission and I hope the eighth Australian Contingent contribution assisted the peace making process and provided a stable and safe envi-ronment for the South Sudanese people, so they can continue to access water, food and education.

“Everyday brought about both professional and personal challenges that will shape my future career in the Air Force both in Australia and overseas on opera-tions.”

Australian Contingent Commander COL Michael Bond addressed the parade and also issued a num-ber of Rotation 8 personnel with their Australian Service Medal (with clasp South Sudan) and the United Nations Mission South Sudan Medal.

COL Bond took the opportunity to personally thank the members of Rotation 8 for their service and collective achievements and contributions to the UN Mission in South Sudan over the past six months.

Rotation 8 personnel on their farewell parade during Operation Aslan on their UNMISS deployment. Inset, Commander Australian Contingent COL Michael Bond awards FLTLT Karl Woodward the UN Mission in South Sudan medal.

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Boosting skills in the Middle EastCPL Max Bree

LAC Barton Hoglund has swapped beautiful Queensland beaches for sands of a different kind during a deployment to the Middle East Region.

As a Base Command Post security guard at the main Australian base for the Middle East, he makes sure unauthorised people stay out and information goes in.

“I have never done work like this before,” he said.

“I have found it to be very rewarding in that you get to be in the centre of all the action.

“Whenever there’s a problem, you’re one of the first to know about it.

“Then it’s a matter of adding to the information and passing it where it needs to go.

“At the end of the day there’s plenty of job satisfaction.”

Joining in 2010, Barton completed his initial training as a Communications Electronic Technician at HMAS Cerberus in Victoria.

He now holds a Certificate III in Electronic Engineering and an open cabling licence.

“This is my first overseas trip with

Defence,” he said. “However, I’ve pretty much been all around Australia doing courses.”

Back in Australia, Barton conducts operability testing of communications for the air traffic control tower at RAAF Base Amberley.

“I also do scheduled maintenance and repair of equipment that has gone unserviceable,” he said.

“I find my job can be challenging, however it can be very rewarding.

“All in all, it’s a harmonious work place with good people who are friendly and easy to socialise with.

“There are always many opportunities to branch out and learn more, which my bosses are all very supportive of.”

Three months into his six-month deployment, LAC Hoglund is enjoying his time in the Middle East and partici-pating in events run at the base.

“There is a good work/life balance, even in a deployed environment,” he said.

“Over here there are events such as bingo, raffles and volleyball competitions, to name a few, to boost morale and teamwork.”

Sands of a different sort

LAC Barton Hoglund is a Base Command Post security guard at Australia’s main base in the Middle East, making sure unauthorised people stay out and information goes in. He is deployed to the region as part of Operation Accordion. Photo: AB Kim Martin

14 15RCEAIR FCentrepiece November 5, 2015

Backbone of air operationsLogistics personnel keep operations in the Middle East moving through a well-stocked and coordinated supply chain supporting members deployed on Operations Okra and Accordion, SGT Guy Young writes

‘A IR Force relies on a robust supply chain for its ability to resupply aircraft and personnel in order

to conduct long-term effective air operations.

A combined logistics cell based in the Middle East Region, comprising Combat Support Unit (CSU) personnel deployed on Operation Accordion and Air Task Group (ATG) personnel deployed on Operation Okra, performs this vital function in supplying everything from stationery through to precision-guided munitions.

One of the ATG F/A-18A Hornet pilots, SQNLDR Jason, knows how critical the supply chain is.

In addition to aircraft parts, he relies on the regular supply of explosive ordnance, from defensive munitions such as chaff and flares, to offensive precision guided munitions.

“Operation Okra has seen the RAAF use the most munitions since the Vietnam War over four decades ago,” SQNLDR Jason said.

“Without the supply of these munitions we would not be able to fulfil our role as part of the coalition disrupting and degrading Daesh.”

The supply of these munitions relies heavily on logistics personnel working directly with the armament officer and pilots to understand the requirements and place the requisitions.

With three vastly different

aircraft platforms and up to 350 personnel to support, the logistics cell comprises a number of different elements all working together to maintain a robust supply chain.

ATG has logisticians dedicated to supporting each aircraft platform: the F/A-18A Hornet fighter attack aircraft, KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft and the E-7A Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft.

In the 12 months since the commencement of Operation Okra, ATG has placed more than 100 high-priority aircraft operationally grounded (AOG) demands.

The total supply chain time for AOGs is two weeks. However, the average total supply chain time is less than seven days.

This is a major achievement, considering that each item entails raising the demand, picking the item, preliminary movement within the National Support Base in Australia, movement of the item to the Middle East Region and the intra-theatre movement to the end-user.

Personnel from all agencies work together to ensure the efficient delivery of items, resulting in rapid aircraft maintenance and the ability of the ATG to undertake its mission.

Air Task Group logistics officer FLTLT Shamsa, right, inspects a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport spare front wheel with LAC Christopher. Regular inspections ensure spare parts are serviceable and ready for use when needed. Photos: SGT Guy Young

Operation Okra has seen the RAAF use the most munitions since the Vietnam War over four decades ago. Without the supply of these munitions we would not be able to fulfil our role as part of the coalition disrupting and degrading Daesh.

SQNLDR Jason, Air Task Group F/A-18A Hornet pilot

CSU supply specialists ACW Molly Major and LAC Brad Bloomfield

shelve a recent delivery of equipment.

Combat Support Unit Air Load Team member LAC Ryan Douglass helps to

load a pallet onto a 60k tonner loader for movement to a waiting aircraft.

CSU Air Load Team member LAC Noel Fuller talks with the driver of a 60k tonner loader carrying supplies flown in from Australia.

Air Task Group logistics officer FLTLT Shamsa directs a forklift’s tines into position prior to moving a large crate containing a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft spare part.

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FeatureRCEAIR F November 5, 2015 17

ANY SUPER bike fan worth his salt would be stoked to meet the man who fuelled his love of

the sport over many years. And so it was for Air Force

Imagery Specialist SGT Rodney Welch when he met his idol, leg-endary Australian motorcycle rac-ing chief mechanic Jeremy Burgess, at the 2015 Pramac Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) at Phillip Island in October.

Mr Burgess, chief engineer to three MotoGP world champions, is one of the main reasons SGT Welch’s inter-est in the sport continued to grow over the years.

SGT Welch, of No 28 Squadron, now rides a motorcycle himself and is one of the “cool dads”, picking up his eight-year-old daughter from school on a bike in Adelaide.

SGT Welch became interested in the sport of motorcycle racing as a teenager in Gladstone, Queensland.

The name Burgess is synonymous with the sport and meeting him in per-son was “a real privilege”.

“He is very humble and approach-able,” SGT Welch said.

Childhood heroes and heartstopping air antics were the highlights as Air Force turned on a show at the MotoGP

“I have seen him before, but never had an opportunity to shake his hand and speak with him.”

Also among the many VIPs from the racing world at the event was this year’s 2015 Bathurst champion, Craig Lowndes.

Tens of thousands of racegoers took a break from the action on the track to enjoy a daily aerial display turned by the Roulettes.

The Roulettes team pulled out all the stops with formation flying at speeds of up to 550km/h and at heights as low as 80m. One of the

popular aerobatic sequences was the “mirror” executed by Roulette Five FLTLT Lachie Hazeldine and Roulette Six FLTLT Jonathan Morgan.

Roulette Seven FLTLT Thomas Sawade provided real-time commen-tary of the display.

“Roulette team’s number one pri-ority is safety, similar to all MotoGP teams, where the safety of their riders, is the most important aspect,” he told the crowds.

“There are many parallels in their commitment, concentration, precision and passion for what they do as well.”

The Roulettes fly over the 2015 Pramac Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island. Photo: SGT Rodney Welch

Sky-high entertainment

SGT Rodney Welch meets one of his idols, Jeremy Burgess, at the 2015 MotoGP.

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Feature RCEAIR F November 5, 201518

EXPLODING German shells shook trenches of New Zealand’s Otago Battalion near the French

town of Armentieres on July 13, 1916, but rather than a concen-trated barrage the enemy seemed to fire artillery ranging shots.

Among the Otagos was SGT James Bree, Gallipoli veteran and my great-great uncle, likely preparing to move forward and protect the flank of a trench-raiding party that evening.

Despite raised eyebrows about the earlier German shells, Otago trench-raiders soon waited in the darkness of no man’s land for their friendly artil-lery to lift before attacking.

A rumour about my great-grandfa-ther, John Thomas Bree, being shot in the “arse” while “probably” running away from Turks at Gallipoli was the extent of my family’s WWI service until New Zealand’s war records were digitised.

Here our family found the most reliable information about my great-grandfather and the existence of his previously forgotten sibling, James Bree.

James joined the Otago Inf Bn’s 10th (North Otago) Coy on August 15, 1914, followed by John Thomas

in the 8th (Southland) Coy seven days later. They left New Zealand as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force that October, arriving in Egypt about two months later. Here John Thomas missed a “tattoo roll call” in Zeitoun, Cairo, and was confined to barracks for seven days in March.

Both men likely landed at Gallipoli with the Otagos after 2.30pm on April 25, 1915, before heading into battle.

A bullet smashed into John Thomas’ left hand, not his backside, in early May, possibly as his company advanced on Dead Man’s Ridge.

He was evacuated to Egypt and declared “permanently unfit for ser-vice” before arriving back in New Zealand that September.

James fought on with the Otagos at Gallipoli, being promoted to cor-poral shortly before being evacuated with shrapnel wounds to his leg and dysentery. He arrived at hospital in Malta in mid-September, then trans-ferred to hospital in England. He rejoined his battalion at Moascar, Egypt, in January 1916 after they had been evacuated from Gallipoli.

A promotion to sergeant followed, but on the eve of shipping out to France, James was severely repri-manded for neglect of duty in April 1916.

Three months later, as the friendly artillery barrage ceased on the German trenches near Armentieres, James and his men started moving through no man’s land to protect a raiding party’s flank. But concentrated shrapnel and machine-gun fire cut the Otagos to pieces before they had taken a few steps – the enemy fire all focused between the New Zealand front and the German objective.

Only a handful of New Zealanders managed to stagger back to their lines and James most likely lay dead.

It was suspected the Germans were forewarned of the raid and laid a trap.

James’ records show him KIA on July 14, 1916. He was buried in an Armentieres war cemetery – the failed trench raid most likely killed him.

While memory of James was lost for nearly 100 years, my family pre-ferred to forget my great-grandfather, John Thomas, described as a “ratbag” who abused his wife and children. Whether this was a result of his ser-vice we will never know.

John Thomas’ wife eventually left her abusive husband and took several children with her.

No photos of the pair survive and war records offer only a small insight into the brothers – one lost to his fam-ily; another who lost his family.

CPL Max Bree delves into the past during the Anzac Centenary year to unravel a long-standing rumour in this Defence family’s history

Siblings FLTLT Lucy Bree and CPL Max Bree

honour their family’s Anzac heritage at the

Australia-New Zealand Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra.

Inset, their great-great uncle James

Bree’s headstone at Armentieres.

Main photo: Lauren Larking

Service pride

In order for Toll Transitions to commence making arrangements for your relocation, you need to submit your Application for Relocation (AFR).

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Combating violenceAS NOVEMBER 25

approaches, white ribbons are pinned to cams, cakes are

ordered and units around Australia prepare for morning tea.

Speeches will be made, personnel encouraged to never excuse or commit violence against women and many may sign written promises to that effect.

Those men prone to domestic violence are unlikely to suddenly realise the error of their ways, but others may be encouraged to step-in and apply some form of social pressure to the perpetrator.

Unfortunately, it may take some time for friends to realise the abuse is happening and longer for the risk of the offender losing their friends to prompt a change in behaviour.

I’ve often wondered how women in violent relationships feel on White Ribbon Day.

Perhaps they hope their

partner will hear the message and change their ways.

Maybe they wonder if their abusive partner’s mates understand her situation and how long it will be before he bears the brunt of a friend’s disgust.

As we hope to remedy the cause, many women can’t wait for cultural change and something to help the symptoms needs to be done in the meantime.

In conjunction with holding a morning tea this White Ribbon Day, units should take the opportunity to raise money that can help women in immediate need.

This could mean collecting donations for a local women’s refuge or organisations that provide crisis accommodation and domestic violence counselling services.

Suitable refuges and organisations are easy to contact in cities and regional centres.

Many will accept donations from the public, but a sizeable

contribution from a FEG or squadron is a great way to show our desire to truly help abused women.

It’s great working towards a culture that never accepts violence against women, but at the same time we need to help victims leave abusive situations.

Men telling men violence against women is unacceptable is one way to send a message.

A woman leaving an abusive man sends an even stronger message, but it often can’t happen without vital support services in place.

For every woman who escapes her abuser, there is potentially another victim inspired and a perpetrator given cause for reflection.

But that can’t happen without support, and that’s why we need to raise money for those vital services at this year’s White Ribbon Day morning teas.

For more information go to www.whiteribbon.org.au

Photo: CPL Guy Young

FeatureRCEAIR F November 5, 2015 19

Donations can help support victims, CPL Max Bree writes

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21November 5, 2015RCEAIR F Flightline

Above (from left), FLGOFF Brandon Warwick, Simone Lai, and CPL Kyle Beattie cut the cake for Air Movements Training and Development Unit’s 50th anniversary at RAAF Base Richmond.Photo: SGT Marshall Ryan

Left, FLTLT Russell Roser and wife Belinda with their son Kaleb after he enlisted into the RAAF on the Gold Coast.

Above, AC Trenton Harper serves the desserts while, above right, AC Lachlan Anderson prepares the salads for their graduation luncheon on completing the Initial Cooks Course 164 at Holmesglen Institute of TAFE, Glen Waverley, Victoria. Photo: ABIS James McDougall

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22 November 5, 2015RCEAIR FAir Force Improvement

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The ADF is bringing Australian mili-tary aviation into step with a regula-tion suite for safety used by about 30 other nations.

D e f e n c e Av i a t i o n S a f e t y Regulations (DASR) will be intro-duced from December 2016 to replace the Military, Operational and Technical Airworthiness Regulations.

This will align Australian military aviation with an emerging convention for aviation safety used extensively throughout Europe.

ADF aircraft have been kept safe for about 20 years thanks to a unique set of airworthiness regulations.

But, in changing times, the Directorate General Technical Airworthiness – ADF (DGTA-ADF)and the Airworthiness Co-ordination and Policy Agency have looked at options for aligning Australian mili-tary aviation with global conventions.

The result is an airworthiness suite including regulations that have already been militarised by the European Defence Agency.

An in-depth assessment process revealed many benefits, including enhanced interoperability, cost effec-tiveness, easier amendments and a stronger legal basis.

Safe bet on new rules Air worthiness system to align with global trends

DASR is expected to be more user-friendly and to provide greater clarity in roles and responsibilities.

It will ensure efficiencies and allow for risks to be managed at the lowest appropriate level.

The ADF also operates a grow-ing number of aircraft derived from civilian models.

Using a system familiar to industry

will reduce support costs and give the operational commander more flexibil-ity to deal with unscheduled events.

Greater traceability of ADF train-ing standards to national and interna-tional levels will allow more opportu-nities for “blended maintenance work-force” solutions.

The future DASR will also ben-efit regulatory staff, allowing them

to more easily keep regulations up to date.

WGCDR Jason Dean, from DGTA-ADF, said the change was timely.

“As a stand-alone set of regula-tions, our current system is embedded in a framework that has become diffi-cult to maintain, update, contemporise and defend in a court of law.

“The European model meets our

needs and offers great scope for inter operability and cost savings,” WGCDR Dean said.

Di rec tor Genera l Technica l Airworthiness AIRCDRE James Hood, the regulator for both ADF and civilian contractors who work on Defence air-craft, said it was important to be effi-cient and cutting edge in an increas-ingly complex aerospace world.

Avionics Technician LAC Malcolm Mittra finalises a safety inspection at RAAF Base Townsville. He and his ADF colleagues will soon be working to a new set of airworthiness regulations.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

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23November 5, 2015RCEAIR F Personnel

IT IS your last chance to participate in the surveys and nominate your family members for the Transition and Wellbeing Research Program as they close on November 30.

The program is the most comprehensive study undertaken in Australia to examine the impact of military service on the mental, physical and social health of serving and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families.

Data collection is via surveys and some individuals have or will be invited to partici-pate in telephone interviews and physical tests, including neurocognitive assessments. Participation in all components of the Programme is voluntary.

Commander Joint Health RADM Robyn Walker said if you had been invited to par-ticipate, but had not yet completed the sur-vey, now was your last chance to complete the survey.

“The higher the participation rates, the stronger the findings,” RADM Walker said.

“It does not matter if you are full time or a reservist, we want you to help us under-stand your needs so please get involved.”

Participants are also reminded to nomi-nate their family members for the Family Wellbeing Study as only family members nominated by serving or former ADF mem-bers will be invited to participate.

The Centre for Traumatic Stress Studies (CTSS) is one of many organisations col-laborating with Defence and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on this Program

If you have not yet been contacted by CTSS and wish to volunteer as a participant, register your interest at https://transitionwellbeing.adelaide.edu.au/registration.html

Last chance to register for surveys

Promise on progressHolly Brambley

THE Women in Defence – Our People and Capability confer-ence on October 13-14 rein-forced Defence’s commitment to improve gender diversity across the organisation.

CDF ACM Mark Binskin and VCDF VADM Ray Griggs opened the two-day event declaring a more diverse workforce would improve our capability, pushing for more women in key leadership roles.

More than 250 guests from across Defence, other govern-ment agencies, allied militaries and Defence industry attended the two-day conference.

SQNLDR Naomi Gill said that Defence had started talking more about issues surrounding cultural change, developing a stronger under-standing of ways to move forward.

“The conference shed light on the issue of unconscious bias as something we need to be aware of,” SQNLDR Gill said.

“I agree with Liz Broderick, who moderated a panel with Service Chiefs and representatives from private industry, if we do not inten-tionally include women we unintentionally exclude them.

“We need to have the dif-ficult conversations and work

out ways to overcome these problems.”

The idea of unconscious bias was raised early and was a theme that continued to arise throughout the event – like SQNLDR Gill, many guests pledged to take the initiative to be more aware of assumptions they made based on gender.

The conference also shed light on the future of our ADF, with Service Chiefs participat-ing in a frank and informative panel discussion pushing for a workforce that is representa-tive of our 51 per cent female Australian population.

Day two was an intimate forum with leaders and diversi-ty experts from across Defence given the opportunity to delve deeper into some of the ideas and topics explored on day one, while brainstorming ways in which these ideas could become a reality.

It was the second time Thomas Hoffman, of Defence People Group, had organised the conference.

“Working on a high profile event, with strong support from Defence senior leader-ship has been very rewarding,” Mr Hoffman said. “Feedback has been extremely positive as this is an important topic for Defence and I think the event showcased the commitment to progressing these issues.”

Commandant ADFA AIRCDRE Alan Clements speaks at the Women in Defence Conference held in Canberra.Photo: Lauren Larking

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24 November 5, 2015RCEAIR FFinance

IN JUST over six months, a new era of consumer choice starts in military superannuation.

On July 1, 2016, the days of ADF members joining one compulsory superannuation fund (MSBS) will be over.

MSBS will continue unchanged for existing members who choose to con-tinue in it, but will be closed to new entrants from that date.

Chairman of the ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre AIRCDRE Robert Brown said the current com-pulsory fund would be replaced by a new military superannuation scheme in which all MSBS members – not DFRDB members – would be offered the opportunity to direct all new employer contributions, at the rate of 16.4 per cent per annum, to any legally approved superannuation fund of their choice.

“Choices will include industry, retail, self-managed superannuation funds and a new default fund called ‘ADF Super Fund’, the trustee of which will be the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation – the cur-rent trustee of MSBS and DFRDB,” he said.

“In addition, there will be a new death and invalidity scheme called ‘ADF Cover’ for eligible members who choose to transfer to the new superannuation scheme.”

The level of death and invalidity

cover in ADF Cover will be consistent with that provided by MSBS.

“Of course, there’s more to it than this brief summary of key facts. Therefore, whatever you decide, you should do so in an informed manner, not by guess work or based on what well-intentioned, but ill-informed col-leagues might tell you,” AIRCDRE Brown said.

To assist ADF members in mak-ing an informed decision, educational material is available in the ‘Guides’ section at www.adfconsumer.gov.au. This website also contains a film about choosing a financial adviser, which is recommend to all ADF members thinking about seeking financial advice before deciding on a preferred super-annuation option.

The film is called Financial Advisers – The Facts and the Fiction and outlines key issues to consider and questions to ask before appointing an adviser.

The ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre has also established a list of licensed financial advisers who have undertaken to provide pro-fessional advice, including superan-nuation advice, on a genuine fee-for-service basis.

These advisers are members of the ADF Financial Advice Referral Program, developed as a result of members wanting access to trusted financial advice, but not knowing how

Assess your options New military super legislation offers more options to secure your retirement.

Seek financial advice to find out what super option is best for your retirement plan. Photo: CPL Matthew Bickerton

to source it. The advisers listed in the program have given a written under-taking to Defence that they do not receive any form of conflicted remu-neration, such as commissions, prod-uct bonuses and asset fees, that may cause their advice to be biased against ADF members’ best interests.

The list of advisers is at www.adfconsumer.gov.au.

“Before you settle on an adviser, make sure you understand the scope of the services on offer – limited or

comprehensive – and the fees you are likely to be paying for that advice.

“Consider talking with a number of advisers before appointing one.

“The important point is that excel-lent resources, both educational and professional, are available to assist you in your superannuation choices.”

He said these resources would be expanded as July 1 approached.

“ADF members are strongly encour-aged, before making a decision, to read about and understand the new superan-

nuation arrangements and to consider seeking professional advice,” he said.

“Having gone through that process, you should feel satisfied you’ve per-formed a comprehensive due diligence and have made a choice that is in your and your family’s best interests.”

AIRCDRE Brown is a chartered accountant, chairman of the ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre, and a member of the Financial Literacy Board and Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s Consumer Advisory Panel.

25November 5, 2015RCEAIR F Health & Fitness

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The Australian Services Rugby Union men’s team during a training session at Bulford Camp, Salisbury. Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

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TRAINING DAY REGIME

THE Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) men’s team adopted the latest rugby-specific strength and conditioning

(S&C) approach employed by the ACT Brumbies Rugby, to prepare for the International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) held last month in the UK.

ASRU’s experience with the 2011 IDRC identified the importance of an S&C program.

This year, Brumbies S&C coach Ben Norcott came on board to assist ASRU coaching staff with implementing and monitoring a 14-week program.

ASRU S&C coach Army SGT Chris Wilkinson, of 1 Close Health Support Battalion, said the program was an ongo-ing development over the past four years.

“We changed the program when we came together back in June for a long weekend camp so we would be in peak condition for the IDRC,” he said.

“Physical training is complex and specific to the individual – you can’t give someone a generic program and expect the results to flow across the board. You need to tweak things to suit their style, playing position and psychological state.”

SGT Wilkinson advised the ASRU players on how to start the program at the beginning and work up to higher intensity training to avoid injury.

“It’s better to underestimate strength, aerobic and anaerobic endurance as it will assist in developing the quality of fitness and more importantly reduce the risk of sustaining an injury,” he said.

“It is also important to listen to your body – if you feel tired or unmotivated address why and don’t train through it.”

SGT Wilkinson said good quality sleep, nutrition and hydration were key to performing well.

“Do your best to get at least 10-12 hours of quality sleep each night and fuel your body appropriately by eating roughly five to six meals a day and by drinking plenty of water,” he said.

“Do not get sucked into the habit of missing meals and replacing them with supplements – you need to eat food, not drink protein powder.

“Supplements should not replace food; if you eat right you will get all you need from real food.

“The same goes for pre-workouts, if you are not mentally fired up to train don’t rely on or waste your money on that stuff. Eat more, sleep more, train right. It’s qual-ity not quantity.”

SGT Wilkinson said the program was a success.

“The performance standard of the guys has really improved since baseline meas-urements were taken at the beginning of the program,” he said.

ASRU coach WO Doc Doherty said player commitment and accountability was fundamental to the team’s performance during the IDRC.

“Based on experience, coaching staff knew all players needed to step up to the next level of S&C in order to successfully execute the game plan required to chal-lenge, and ideally beat the best defence rugby teams in the world.

“We needed to ensure players were capable of giving 100 per cent for up to 80 minutes. Near enough would not be good enough,” he said.

“We engaged the Brumbies because they have a solid reputation of delivering superior results through a rugby-tailored S&C program.

“We used Facebook as our forum to disseminate the training plan and instruc-tional video clips, and to answer questions and share tips. We conducted baseline test-ing in early June, then follow-up testing at four-week intervals across the 14-week program, concluding with final testing on the first day of the tour.

“To compete alongside the best defence rugby teams in the world, tailored and robust S&C is critical.”

For more information on ASRU’s S&C program, contact SGT Chris Wilkinson on [email protected]

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26 November 5, 2015RCEAIR FSp rt

ADF WOMEN will be competing for the first time in the six-nation International Defence Cricket Challenge 2015 (IDCC15) to be held in Canberra from November 16-29.

Six service-level teams of the Australian Services Cricket Association (ASCA) will com-pete against the defence forces of Malaysia, New Zealand, Great Britain, Fiji and Pakistan to both renew and enhance their partnerships through cricket.

All men’s teams will compete in Twenty20 and one-day matches while the women’s teams will compete in T20 matches.

ASCA head coach WO Gary Fuss said he was looking forward to seeing the women compete.

“After trying to get [women’s cricket] into Defence for many years, and working with ASCA Manager of Cricket Operations MAJ Darren Mattison, we achieved this. To see it feature in IDCC15 is fantastic and great that we are align-ing with modern times,” he said.

“Having so many countries coming here to embrace the spirit of the game is also great. It is important to mix in this setting as we work with these countries on a professional level as well – it’s great to see the Fijian Army field a side for the first time too.”

During the past decade, the ASCA has con-ceived, developed and grown the IDCC concept to become the pre-eminent global defence cricket tournament. It aims to foster a spirit of goodwill and healthy competition within the international defence environment.

“A competition like this is not held anywhere else in the world,” WO Fuss said.

New spin on cricket comp

Above left, ADF cricketers lay wreaths at the Australian War Memorial during a last post ceremony. From left, PO Luke Grimmond, LS Natasha Wilson, SGT Corey Baker, TPR Rachel Martin, SGT Dan Amiet, CPL Ingrid Svilans. Above right, CPL Ingrid Svilans pulls a ball in front of Alyssa Healy in an ASCA T20 match against the Southern Stars. Photos: Steve Burton and LAC Brenton Kwaterski

As in previous years, the tournament will cul-minate in a selected World Defence XI playing an Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) team, comprising former big-name test cricketers.

For the first time, an ACA women’s team will be formed to compete against the inaugural women’s World Defence XI team.

Visiting teams will also have the opportunity to experience Australian culture and to gain an understanding of the ADF.

ASCA personnel rubbed shoulders with Prime Minister’s XI captain Mike Hussey and New Zealand captain Tim Southee on the eve of the PM’s XI match at a special Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial on October 22.

It recognised the links between cricket and the defence forces of Australia and New Zealand in the 100th year since the Gallipoli landings.

The ceremony featured the life and sacrifice of TPR Albert “Tibby” Cotter, the only Australian international cricketer to be killed during WWI.

Vice President ASCA and IDCC Tournament Director LTCOL James Brownlie said the cer-emony recognised the sacrifice of all cricketers who had died in the service of Australia and New Zealand.

CPL Janine Fabre

RECEIVING immediate medical care on the ground is essential to ensure players recover quickly and are able return to the field as soon as possible.

Team physiotherapist SQNLDR Anna Lewis and medical officer LCDR Commander Chloe Ryan are working with Australian Services Rugby Union during the International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) in the UK.

“Having the corporate knowledge about the team and personal knowledge about the players is invaluable when you are responsible for their health care both on and off the field,” LCDR Ryan said.

“It is especially important in dealing with concussion and head injuries.

“Witnessing the mechanism of injury is really valuable in helping manage that injury. People often think that to be con-cussed you have to hit your head on something but that is not the case.

“It can happen in a high-speed tackle and a player might say they don’t have a headache, but in fact they do have a concussion.”

LCDR Ryan does medical assess-ments on each player when they arrive on tour so she knows their baseline.

“But knowing personally someone’s character and what they are normally like can be incredibly helpful in deciding whether someone has a brain injury or not,” she said.

SQNLDR Anna Lewis agrees.“The doctor and I will often see an injury hap-pen so we can immediately manage it appropriately,” she said.

“We can do an immediate assess-ment and get on top of it straight away and have better results than if there is a 24-36 hour delay.”

SQNLDR Lewis uses various physi-otherapy techniques, such as dry-nee-dling, joint mobilisation, soft tissue mas-sage and pilates, depending on individu-al requirements.

With a strong background in clinical pilates and a doctorate in clinical physi-otherapy, SQNLDR Lewis understands the importance of core stability work, specifically with rugby players, and how that can enhance performance.

“We have had soft-tissue injuries, such as shoulder, groin or calf inju-ries, where we have used pilates, pool recovery sessions, and cold compres-sion therapy to then be able to return some back to play within days,” SQNLDR Lewis said.

Both LCDR Ryan and SQNLDR Lewis have worked and toured with ASRU men’s and women’s teams since 2010 so they both understand the requirements of individuals and the team as a whole.

Although they don’t play rugby them-selves, both get very involved in the excitement of the matches and take per-sonal pride in the games.

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Medical officer LCDR Chloe Ryan, left, and physiotherapist and SQNLDR Anna Lewis on duty during the IRDC in the UK.Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

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27November 5, 2015RCEAIR F Sp rt

LTCOL Adam Boyd and CPL Janine Fabre

AUSTRALIA’S International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) campaign came to an abrupt but gallant end in the quarter final at Porstmouth on October 19, when the team faced the top-ranked Republic of Fiji Military Forces team.

Fiji’s speed, agility and ball han-dling was impressive from start to finish. It was relentless in the tight contest in the forwards and its outside backs attacked with flair. Its 62-8 vic-tory reinforced its favouritism to go all the way in this year’s IDRC.

The scoreline might suggest a one-sided contest as the fleet-footed Fijians ran in a decent bagful of tries, but the Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) team had Fiji on the back foot, deep into the attacking zone, on many occasions.

ASRU’s ball retention was not at its best, however, and it crossed the line for only one try, scored by lock SBLT Josh Friend.

ASRU’s best player was flanker PTE Siaka King, who was constantly in the thick of action and matched the Fijians for pace out wide, defending and attacking.

PTE King thrives on brutal, fast-paced contests and kept the ASRU

doctor busy, adding another eight stitches to his IDRC war-wound tally.

Rugby journeyman LAC Shaun Connolly received his first ASRU cap. It was a long time coming for LAC Connolly, who has been striving for ASRU selection since 2011.

He received the coveted ASRU XV representative tie in the middle of the post-match ASRU and Fijian huddle.

LAC Connolly said the team was mentally prepared for a tough game against Fiji.

“We knew we were going to have to really put the pressure on to beat them,” he said.

“There were a couple of things in the game that didn’t go our way, a couple of bounces that went in Fiji’s favour, and really that is all they need-ed to get the upper hand and from that point we were playing catch-up rugby.

“Even when they were a couple of men down, it didn’t slow them down. They are a predominantly sev-ens rugby nation so I don’t think they really even noticed they were down one or two men.”

Before this match ASRU and Fiji had played only three times in ASRU’s 52-year history – in 1984, 1996 and 2006. The ledger was 2-1 in favour of Fiji. ASRU’s only win was in 1984 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, when the score was 18-14.

LTCOL Adam Boyd and CPL Janine Fabre

DESPITE bowing out of the International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) in the quarter finals, the Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) team did the ADF proud by winning four out of their six games in the UK.

The only two teams ASRU lost to were the grand finalists, British Army and Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

After losing their quarter finals, Australia, South Africa and Tonga agreed to compete in a couple of friendly matches.

ASRU head coach WOFF Tony “Doc” Doherty said it was important to take these opportunities to play on the international stage.

“The opportunity to tour to South Africa is very limited for ASRU, so to play international matches in a short timeframe is great for services rugby and also international defence rugby.

“We’ve played Tonga a few times now but we still like to take the oppor-tunity to play them whenever we can.

“Even though these are ‘friendly’ games, the fact is every country that turns up at these competitions wants to win,” he said.

Australia played South Africa at RAF Halton on October 23, winning a close one, 35-31.

“Whether or not ASRU ever gets another opportunity to play South Africa, at least they’ll know that they were the first team to play, and win, that game,” WOFF Doherty said.

“It is always nice to have that in the history books. And it is a credit to the players they were able to overlook the quarter final loss and still come out and play good football.”

LAC Shaun Connolly grew up in South Africa and said the game was the highlight of his trip.

“For me that was an emotional game. I could actually understand the boys on the field and then got to have a chat with them and swap jumpers afterwards,” he said.

ASRU then played a friendly against Tonga at Maidenhead Rugby Union Club on October 27. As expect-ed, it was a physical encounter but Australia still won 27-24.

ASRU’s backline showed plenty of attacking flair and pace, scoring three of ASRU’s four tries.

There has never been more than eight points between the teams, who have played seven times in 10 years, so WOFF Doherty was relieved to win.

Gallant till the end A relentless Fiji brings Australia’s run to a halt in the International Defence Rugby Competition

And friendlies make it four

The Australian Services Rugby Union and the Republic of Fiji Military Force rugby teams after their IDRC quarter final, which Fiji won 62-8. Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

LAC Shaun Connolly in action in the friendly against the South African National Defence Force rugby team. Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

“We won, but it wasn’t as convinc-ing as we would have liked, noting that we dominated possession of the ball. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t hold on to the football,” he said.

LAC Shaun Connolly said it was a very physical contest.

“The Tongans played quite a tight structure but I felt we had more skill out wide so when they made mistakes we capitalised on them,” he said.

“We knew they would come in and give it a fair go. They are big physical boys so what they came in and showed us is what we really expected.”

WOFF Doherty said it was good on finish the tournament on a high note.

“Having four wins against notable teams is a pretty good effort.”

He believed a bit more time together, would have helped the overall performance.

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SP RTNovember 5, 2015

BLOWBY

BLOWIDRC gig tops off a

whistle-stop adventure for an Air Force ref

PAGES 26-27

FLTLT James Hagan referees the IDRC

quarter final between Royal Air Force and the French National

Military Rugby Team at RAF Halton.

Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

Women compete in

six-nation Cricket

Challenge P26

CPL Janine Fabre

THE CHANCE to referee rugby union on the world stage is something FLTLT James Hagan has been working towards for the past four years.

A flight test systems specialist at the Aircraft Research and Development Unit in Edinburgh, South Australia, FLTLT Hagan was selected to referee in the International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) in the UK.

He said the highlight was being appointed to referee the semi-final at the Harlequins’ home ground, the Stoop in Twickenham.

“I’ve been working hard to put myself in the best possible position for this trip,” he said.

“As well as a great capstone to the 2015 sea-son, this has been a brilliant trip and a fantastic experience. It’s great to be involved with other allied nations in a competition such as this.”

FLTLT Hagan has been refereeing for the ADF since 2005, a role that has taken him to New Zealand, the US and Tonga.

After a series of deployments and injuries forced him to cut back his rugby union playing time, he took up refereeing.

He relished this aspect of the game and found he even became a better player for it.

“I enjoyed learning more about rugby and I found that my playing got better once I learnt more about the laws and how to apply them,” FLT LT Hagan said.

He said he was grateful for the opportuni-ties the Australian Services Rugby Referees Association (ASRRA) had given him.

“The units I have been posted to and the Air Force have all been very supportive,” he said.

About 80 referees from the three ser-vices referee on weekends and from there are selected for inter-service carnivals, intra-brigade competitions and the annual Australian Services Rugby Union Championships.

But the pinnacle is to be selected for inter-national tours such as the IDRC.

“ASRRA looks at all the referees that are of the appropriate standard for the level of com-petition and then they look at availability to be released from work,” FLTLT Hagan said.

“We are always looking for referees. By becoming a referee in my local association and then becoming a part of ASRRA has allowed me opportunities that I would never been able to imagine or pursue.”

For more information about becoming a referee with ASRRA, email [email protected]

Rugby wrap-up

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