AIRF RRCECE - Department of Defence · 2015. 3. 17. · AIRF RRCECE Vol. 54, No. 18, September 27,...

AIR F RCERCEVol. 54, No. 18, September 27, 2012 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force012 Th

NEW NEW HORIZONHORIZON

PLUGGING IN ON OPS: Due to operational commitments, some of the members deployed at Al Minhad Air Base had to wait a bit longer than their colleagues back home to watch the video of CAF releasing the new Air Force Values on September 14 – but that didn’t stop their enthusiasm. CPL Neal Fischer, pictured here with LACW Carolynne Poida, both of FCU7, jumped online as soon as he could to watch the video. “After working in a predominantly Army environment on deployment, it made me feel connected to Air Force,” he said. “I’m excited to welcome the new Air Force Values.” Photo: SGT Mick Davis

CAF releases updated Air Force CAF releases updated Air Force Values to members everywhereValues to members everywhere

P3Full story

2 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FFNews

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PTE Robert Poate

PTE Nathanael Galagher

LCPL Mervyn McDonald

SPR James Martin

LCPL Stjepan Milosevic

FIVE Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan in late August have been laid to rest in Australia across the country.

Friends, families, colleagues, ADF senior officers and politicians paid homage at each service.

SPR James Martin, LCPL Stjepan “Rick” Milosevic and PTE Robert Poate were serving with the 3RAR Task Group when they were killed in an insider attack at Patrol Base Wahab in the Baluchi Valley region of Uruzgan province on August 29.

Commandos PTE Nathanael Ga laghe r and LCPL Mervyn McDonald were killed in a helicop-ter crash in Helmand province in the early hours of August 30 while serv-ing with the Special Operations Task Group.

Two services were held on September 12: LCPL Milosevic was farewelled at Marist College in Ashgrove, Brisbane, and PTE Poate was farewelled at Canberra Grammar School in the ACT.

PTE Galagher’s funeral was held at St John’s Anglican Church in Pilliga in north-west NSW on September 13.

LCPL McDonald’s funeral service was held at St Benedict’s Catholic Church in Perth on September 17.

SPR Martin’s farewell was at Perth’s Karrakatta Cemetery on September 18.

There were moving eulogies at the services.

LCPL Milosevic’s CO, LTCOL Mark Welburn, spoke at his service and pledged to the fallen soldier’s two young daughters to honour his mem-ory.

“Today, the regiment grieves the loss of a highly respected and much loved soldier,” LTCOL Welburn said.

Five soldiers farewelled

I want to wake up every morning and be proud of what I do and who I am. I want to … fi ght for the civil liberties that most Australians take for granted. I want to be an Australian soldier.– An excerpt from a letter SPR James Martin wrote to his family during his basic training, retold by CO 2CER LTCOL Paul Foura who delivered his eulogy.

PTE Poate’s CO, LTCOL Mark Jennings, reflected on the soldier’s determination, commitment and mis-chievous sense of humour.

“PTE Poate’s reputation as a red-headed larrikin among his mates and his dependability was known to all around him,” LTCOL Jennings said.

“We will never forget Robert Poate for his service, mateship and courage as a warrior in the best traditions of

the Royal Australian Regiment and the Australian Army,” he said.

PTE Galagher’s CO, LTCOL B, spoke of the commando’s drive, pro-fessionalism and commitment to his mates at the regiment.

“Nate died at the top of his game and in the company of men who knew what it was to strive valiantly for a just and noble cause,” LTCOL B said.

At LCPL McDonald’s service,

LTCOL B spoke of the energy and enthusiasm LCPL McDonald brought to the unit and the high sense of duty with which he served on multiple deploy-ments during his 13-year Army career.

“Merv would have wanted to be remembered as a quiet, hardworking, likeable bloke who got the job done no matter what it was. This was an under-statement,” LTCOL B said.

SPR Martin’s CO, LTCOL Paul

Foura, delivered the soldier’s eulogy.“James was incredibly well suited

to be a sapper from day one,” LTCOLFoura said.

“His intelligence and ability to rap-idly acquire new skills, his willing-ness to participate and contribute tothe team and his infectious personalitymade him the perfect fit into Army as asoldier and, in particular, as a combatengineer.”

‘GOODBYE MATE: The congregation pays their respects to PTE Robert Poate during the funeral service at the Chapel of Christ at the Canberra Grammar School. Photo: Lauren Black

SPR James LCPL Stjepan LC TE Robert PT TE NathanaelPT LCPL Mervyn

GctfCS

LC

CPL Nick Wiseman

PEACEKEEPING over the past 65 years was commemorated at the future site of the Peacekeeping Memorial on Anzac Parade, Canberra on September 14.

More than 60 people attended, includ-ing Defence Science and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon, New Zealand High Commissioner MAJGEN Martyn Dunne (ret’d), Australian Peacekeeping Memorial Project patron Geraldine Doogue, Australian Peacekeeping Memorial Project Chair MAJGEN Tim Ford (ret’d) and National RSL Australia president Mr Gary

Brodie, as well as senior representatives of the ADF and Australian Federal Police.

The vice-chairman of the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial Project Committee, MAJGEN Ian Gordon (ret’d), said attend-ance at the service had been very encour-aging.

“The number of people that attend and support the event continue to grow each year with a strong presence from members of the Parliament,” he said.

“It’s important we recognise the work of peacekeepers not only in the past but also the present and future.”

The service is an annual commemora-

tion of the work and sacrifices of Australian peacekeepers and has been a focal point in the past few years to raise awareness and funds for the future peacekeeping memo-rial.

MAJGEN Gordon said the design and prototype stages were finished and the memorial would be built once sufficient funds had been raised .

“We plan to finish the memorial in the next few years,” he said.

For more information about the memorial online, see http://www.peacekeepingmemo-rial.org.au

65 years of peacekeeping marked in Canberra

COMMEMORATION: Australia’s Federation Guard members form a catafalque party at the service. Photo: LACW Casey Gaul

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3September 27, 2012RCEAIR FF News

FLTLT Melody Earl

AIR Force members at home and abroad downed tools on September 14 to watch CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown release the new Air Force Values via a seven-minute video message.

Some watched in large groups on big screens, while others did it by section, unit or individually, but everyone tuned in as CAF deliv-ered a clear and strong message that “things will change” as part of Air Force’s ‘New Horizon’ initiative.

Following CAF’s message, com-manders led discussions and work-shops, and activities included devel-opment of new unit code of conduct and review of personnel manage-ment processes.

Many of the members deployed at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates also watched the video that day, in groups or indi-vidually, while others had to wait a few days due to operational com-mitments.

CPL Michelle Mazins, a regis-try clerk deployed as part of Force Support Unit 6, joined about 25 of her colleagues to watch the video on September 14, after which they discussed the new values.

“I felt it was a great opportunity to restate values that I feel should be shown throughout the Air Force,” CPL Mazins said.

“They are a good guideline to reflect and guide on what direction we should strive to be going, per-sonally and as a collective.”

AC Tim Briggs, of 37SQN, believed that RAAF Base Richmond was already on the right path, but the new values were a good oppor-tunity to talk about behaviours.

“I have been in Air Force for almost four years, and most people work well together,” he said.

“After learning about the new values, we talked more about the behaviours we want from people. If we have different values it’s hard for people to share the same standards of behaviour.”

Base PTI CPL Lee Morsink agreed that the values would help steer personnel on to the right path.

“The new values give Air Force personnel clearer guidelines and directions to take as the Air Force moves forward,” CPL Morsink said.

The new values are part of Air Force’s response to Pathway to Change: Evolving Defence Culture, which resulted from the Defence culture reviews.

In his video message, CAF said Air Force was laying the founda-tions for far-reaching reform, with the values being an important part of that process.

“These values are not an end point for us. As words on a page they will achieve nothing. It’s up to us to bring them to life through our actions,” AIRMSHL Brown said. “I am absolutely committed to shap-

RESPECTAir Force people always respect the rights of others. Our people are just and inclusive. We recognise diversity is essential to improve our capability.

EXCELLENCE Air Force people demonstrate professionalism, mastery and continuous improvement in everything we do. Our people are motivated and encouraged to innovate. We are capability focused, operationally ready and are driven to successfully complete the missions required of us.

AGILITY Air Force people respond swiftly to challenges. Our people are resilient and quickly adapt to changes in our environment. We are flexible in how we think and act and we use resources wisely.

DEDICATION Air Force people are trusted to defend our country. Our people are courageous and serve with pride and commitment. We cherish our heritage, honour the achievements and sacrifices of those who have gone before us.

INTEGRITYAir Force people have the courage to do what is right. Our people are honest, ethical and demonstrate sound judgement. We hold ourselves and others to account.

TEAMWORKAir Force people work together to deliver precision air and space power. Our people collaborate with the Defence team and our partners. We share the responsibility to ensure a safe environment, everywhere and always.

Listening, far and wide

ing our Air Force as an organisation of people who have the courage to always do the right thing.

“We need to be honest, ethical and demonstrate sound judgement.

“It is everyone’s responsibility to live and honour our values.”

WOFF-AF Mark Pentreath said while New Horizon was a com-mand-driven initiative, the role the warrant officer played in both guid-ing junior officers and mentoring and coaching their subordinates would be “pivotal”.

“Warrant officers are to reinforce their commander’s intent while ensuring the views from the work-force are appropriately represented,” WOFF-AF Pentreath said.

“They hold a unique rank where they can link directly into the high-

est levels of command whilst also having an intimate understanding of workforce issues at the coalface.”

AIRMSHL Brown has asked that Air Force continue the con-versation and continue to question and review how it does business, including how members engage with their peers and represent the Air Force.

Air Force Adaptive Culture will conduct a cultural assessment to ascertain a baseline of where the Air Force is positioned today to assist in navigating the pathway forward.

The user-friendly online assess-ment will begin in mid-October and go through to the end of November.

More information on the cultural assess-ment will follow in the next edition.

TUNING IN: Members from Headquarters Air Lift Group watch CAF’s video at RAAF Base Richmond. Photo: CPL Amanda Campbell

SEEING POSITIVES: LACW Michelle Mazins, who joined her colleagues to watch the video at Al Minhad Air Base; inset, CPL Lee Morsink reviews the new values at RAAF Base Richmond. Photos: SGT Mick Davis and CPL Amanda Campbell

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THE Government has rein-stated recreational travel leave entitlements for all single members of the ADF.

The recreation leave travel policy had been changed on July 1 with an age restriction introduced for single ADF members over 21, with the exception of trainees.

Defence Sc i ence and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon said the entitlement had been reinstated following concerns raised by the Defence community.

“Effective immediately, the Government will reinstate one return trip each year for single ADF members to visit family,” Mr Snowdon said.

Head People Capability MAJGEN Gerard Fogarty said that Defence had applied the age limit following a review of Defence employment con-ditions policy to ensure it remained contemporary. The changes also aligned recreation

leave travel entitlements for all services.

“What community engage-ment following the introduction of the age limit for MWODs highlighted is that there is sig-nificant community support for a generous Defence employ-ment package – including sub-sidies for older ADF members’ access to extended family – parents, brothers and sisters,” MAJGEN Fogarty said.

“The Australian community places a high level of value on keeping in touch with parents and siblings, at all ages or stag-es in life.

“We’re committed to an ADF that is reflective of com-munity values and this change ensures all ADF members without dependants, regardless of their age, are able to under-take one trip a year, within Australia.”

The only MWODs who can access more than one trip a year are ADF trainees. Defence

will continue to place greater emphasis on their support and they will be able to access up to three return trips in a finan-cial/leave year, also within Australia.

“Our policies have always sought to reflect that an ADF career has implications on where our people live and the impact this can have on fami-lies,” MAJGEN Fogarty said.

“The primary focus of many Defence policies is on contact with and support for partners and dependants who are par-ticularly impacted by factors like geographic mobility, relo-cations and separation gener-ally.”

The change to remove the age limit applied in July became effective from 13 September and is not retrospec-tive. More information on rec-reation leave travel is available on Defence’s pay and condi-tions website.

Travel agelimit lifted

Tanks for dropping in

ONE of 33SQN’s new KC-30A tankers attracted lots of interest when it visited Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates late in August on a stopover as part of a trip to Britain to support the ADF band’s participation in the Queen’s Jubilee.

It was the first time the aircraft had flown to the Middle East and Europe and provided the opportunity to validate flight planning and procedures on the road to initial operating capability at the end of 2012.

Aside from Australian interest, the stopover provided an opportu-nity to engage with the United Arab Emirates Air Force, which is also purchasing the KC-30 aircraft.

FIRST LOOK: Base personnel look over the KC-30A tanker during its stopover at Al Minhad Air Base. Photos: SGT William Guthrie

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AIR Force received special thanks from the Navy for its contribution to Exercise Kakadu 2012.

At the event’s closing ceremony at RAAF Base Darwin, exercise direc-tor CAPT Heath Robertson gratefully acknowledged the contribution of an 11SQN Orion, five 79SQN Hawks and three 75SQN Hornets.

13SQN and 452SQN were also thanked for the role they played, ensuring Exercise Kakadu 2012 was a success.

“Having aircraft heavily involved adds value to the exercise program immensely,” CAPT Robertson said.

“For our members at sea, the abil-ity to track an aircraft in real time tests our ability to react to it and hones our skills in removing the threat it poses to our surface units.”

About 2000 personnel from 17 par-ticipating and observing nations took part in the exercise from August 29 to September 14.

HMA Ships Perth, Warramunga, Darwin, Huon, Gascoyne, Sirius and Dechaineux were joined in the North Australian Exercise Area by ships from Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand.

Air Force aircraft completed 56 sorties and achieved 96.3 flying hours.

SQNLDR Charlie Cordy-Hedge said the exercise provided good train-ing for pilots based out of RAAF Bases Pearce and Williamtown.

“Exercise Kakadu presented good

opportunities for the young ops flight pilots to get experience flying in the north where a lot of our strategic inter-ests are and our neighbouring allies operate,” he said.

Thanks for Kakadu help

The skies over Darwin and the Timor Sea were also busy with two Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force P-3C Orions and a Republic of Singapore Air Force Fokker-50.

Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia also conducted flying exer-cises with Seahawk, Seasprite and B-105 helicopters respectively.

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Westwind, a Raytheon Learjet 35, and Air Target Services provided contracted assistance for air warfare and gunnery serials during the at-sea phase.

AIR AND SEA: A 75SQN F/A-18 flies low in a simulated attack on ships at sea during Exercise Kakadu 2012; left, the multinational fleet sails through the North Australian Exercise Area.

Photos: LS Helen Frank

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WITH the assistance of the RAAF, the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) is well on its way to achieving its goal of zero accidents, according to Indonesian Air Force Safety and Airworthiness Project Team Leader AIRCDRE Tony Jones.

In February 2010, CAF and the Chief of the Indonesian Air Force agreed to form a Safety and Airworthiness Joint Working Group (JWG). The JWG is undertaking a series of projects designed to promote the highest standards of safety and airworthiness in the TNI-AU.

An e lec t ronic publ ica t ions (E-Pubs) system, comprising 20 lap-top computers, two workstations and printers and digitised C-130 mainte-nance publications, was handed over to the TNI-AU in Indonesia in May this year by RAAF members of the JWG.

Two members of the Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office –experts in E-Pubs – accompanied the RAAF team to Indonesia to pro-vide training on the new system. The system was designed to assist in the improvement of C-130 deeper level maintenance carried out at TNI-AU’s Depot No. 10 in Bandung.

“Since the handover, the E-Pubs system has been rolled out to two TNI-AU C-130 flying squadrons,” AIRCDRE Jones said.

“It is used by maintenance techni-cians as well, indicating the consider-

Improving air safetyAFTER a career spanning more than three decades, retiring Commander Joint Logistics AVM Margaret Staib has been appoint-ed Chief Executive of Airservices Australia.

Airservices Australia is responsible for the management of air traffic for more than 11 per cent of the world’s airspace with the organisation proposing to deliver a five-year, $1 billion capi-tal expenditure program under AVM Staib’s leadership.

Airservices Australia chair-man, former CDF ACM Angus Houston (ret’d), said the selection panel agreed unanimously that AVM Staib had the background and experience to excel as Chief Executive.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown thanked AVM Staib for her exem-plary service.

“Logistics underpins a great deal of what an Air Force does and AVM Staib has made a sub-stantial contribution not only to Air Force but also in the joint environment to improve logistics for the ADF,” he said.

“She is an outstanding officer who has proven to be an inspira-tion to others.”

After joining Air Force in 1981, AVM Staib rose through the ranks and was appointed Commander Joint Logistics in 2010.

As Australia’s senior defence strategic logistician, she was accountable for the oversight and assurance of the Defence logistics capability.

In 2009, AVM Staib was appointed as a member in the Military Division of the Order of Australia.

Exciting role for retiring logistician

able value TNI-AU places on this new technology.

“Australia and Indonesia have a long history of defence cooperation, and it is in Australia’s interests to assist our close partner to improve its air safety performance.”

The JWG consists of RAAF reservists with expertise in flying and ground safety and technical and operational airworthiness, and their Indonesian counterparts. The JWG

held its first meeting in Indonesia in early 2011.

Since being formed, the JWG has also helped implement a new program where selected TNI-AU officers are attached to RAAF safety and airwor-thiness organisations, to observe best practice and complete projects, such as developing a Safety Management Plan for their home unit. Two attach-ments of four officers have already been completed, with two TNI-AU

officers working in the Directorate General Technical Airworthiness at RAAF Base Williams, Laverton, and two officers working at Air Lift Group and 37SQN, RAAF Base Richmond.

Further a t tachments to the Directorate of Defence Aviation and Air Force Safety and the Airworthiness Coordination and Policy Agency are planned for next year.

New Defence SecretaryOUTGOING Defence Secretary Duncan Lewis has been nominated as the Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, NATO and the European Union. Mr Lewis will leave Defence on October 10 in prep-aration for his new appointment. The cur-rent head of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and former director general of ASIO, Dennis Richardson, will take up the position of Secretary on October 18.

First Indigenous Elder‘UNCLE’ Harry Allie has been appointed as the first Air Force Indigenous Elder. A retired warrant officer who served in the RAAF from 1966 to 1989, Uncle Harry – a descendent of the Gudjul peo-ple – will represent Air Force aon official occasions, advise on ways to increase indigenous participation in Air Force, and increase Air Force’s appeal as an employ-er of Indigenous Australians. More on Uncle Harry in a coming edition.

TEAMWORK: WGCDR Jason Murray (front right), of the Joint Working Group, explains the RAAF system of aircraft tool control to the senior engineering officer of TNI-AU’s No. 32 Squadron, watched by other TNI-AU and RAAF members, including AIRCDRE Tony Jones (back centre) at Abdul Rachman Saleh Air Force Base in Malang, East Java.

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MEMORIES will pour in when 37SQN holds a reunion of past and present members of the C-130H com-munity.

As part of the reunion, a family day and hangar gathering will be held at RAAF Base Richmond on November 24, just before the aircraft’s retirement in December.

A number of smaller events for past

and present C-130H members are also being planned.

One of the chief organisers for the reunion, FLTLT Glen Nelson, said it would be an end of era in Air Force history.

“The C-130H introduced many of the tactical airlift roles which the wider ADF now count on,” FLTLT Nelson said.

“This is our last opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and great

memories that this aircraft has given us. We’re seeking out everybody who has worked on the C-130H, from the original crews to those who’ll support its final day of service.”

The C-130H entered service with 36SQN in 1978, replacing the first generation C-130A Hercules.

In 2006, they were transferred to 37SQN.

In their time, they have flown to Antarctica, supported Defence person-

nel in Iraq and Afghanistan, evacuated Australians from Cambodia, and pro-vided countless humanitarian and civil relief tasks.

“These feats would not have been possible without the work of thousands of people who have worked on and supported this aircraft,” FLTLT Nelson said.

“The H-model community has seen some fantastic trips away with this air-craft, and made tremendous sacrifices

during deployments supporting the wider Defence Force.

“The functions are an opportunity to share these memories.”

For more information, see www.hfarewell.com which includes links to a ticketing web-site, or contact Sarah Lacey on (02) 4587 2975 or [email protected], or Eamon Hamilton on 02) 4587 3844 or [email protected]

Farewelling the H-model

A WARM welcome has been extended to Australian Hercules personnel by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) for Exercise Rajawali Ausindo 12.

The contingent of RAAF and Australian Army personnel arrived on board a 37SQN C-130J Hercules at Abdul Rachman Saleh Air Force Base in Malang, East Java, on September 18.

OC 84WG GPCAPT Don Sutherland was greeted on arrival by MAJ Reza Sastranegara, of the TNI-AU (pictured left).

The exercise, which helps both air forces understand how the other oper-ates their Hercules aircraft, was held from September 17-22.

Full wrap-up in the next edition.

Welcome to East Java

Photo: Eamon Hamilton

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LACW Angela Richmond

THE Air Force Band has laid its envi-ronmental credentials on the line – and CO SQNLDR Mathew Shelley says they will save money for Air Force.

SQNLDR Shelley has established a sustainability team within the band to champion environmental, financial and social sustainability.

One of the things it looked at was travel.

“When we compared the difference in carbon emissions between trans-porting the unit by air or by road, we determined the environmentally respon-sible thing to do was to travel by coach rather than use air transport,” SQNLDR Shelley said.

Thirty-eight members of the band will travel by coach from their base at RAAF Base Williams to perform at RAAF Base Edinburgh on September 27. It’s a 1480km round trip. When they last went there, in 2010, they flew by commercial airline, which was a costly alternative.

“While not always an option due to varying factors, such as operational tempo, distance and human resources, in this instance it was deemed appropri-ate and achievable to consider the envi-ronment first,” SQNLDR Shelley said.

“This decision has reduced AFBAND’s carbon emissions by 7709kg or 76 per cent. It also saved $22,000.”

SQNLDR Shelley said savings would be reinvested into renewable energy sources.

“We are in the process of procuring a solar powered generator to power the sound and lighting rig for Air Force Band concerts,” he said.

The sustainability team would also develop programs, including encourag-ing bike transportation on base by pro-viding bicycles and bike racks, as well as procuring scanners to reduce paper wastage.

Striking a green chord

Some of their initiatives already in place include encouraging the re-use of paper, turning off lights, providing more recycling bins, procuring 100 per cent recycled paper, sourcing free trade cof-fee for the tea room and provision of a mobile phone recycling station.

“Creating value for Air Force through sustainable practices means we must develop organisational capabilities that contribute to the wellbeing of soci-ety and individuals,” SQNLDR Shelley said.

ON THAT NOTE: Above, SQNLDR Mathew Shelley, WOFF Attilio Celata and the Air Force Band at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney; left, Air Force Band members, from left, LAC Michael Potts, CPL Roxanne Moxham and LAC Barney Loveland get into the spirit. Photos: CPL Cam Scott (main) and LS Jo Dilorenzo

The carbon emissions were calculated for the Laverton to Edinburgh trip based on 38 personnel travelling 1480km (740km each way). The transport carbon com-parison tool on www.transportdirect.info was used. The coach emits 1.687 tonnes of CO2 while the aircraft emits 9.64 tonnes of CO2.

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10 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FAir Force Improvement

WHEN F/A-18A aircraft from 75SQN experienced a spate of apparent ‘hot brakes’ incidents on landing, a simple solution was found.

It was all thanks to 75SQN Maintenance Flight at RAAF Base Tindal, which is embracing continuous improvement.

The senior engineering officer at 75SQN, SQNLDR John Phillips, said smoking brakes were always treated as ‘hot brakes’ incidents.

This required a quick response from flightline members and the

attendance of the Tindal Base Fire Section to guard against a wheel fire.

“The occurrences reduced air-craft availability while the aircraft was physically isolated, in most cases ruling out the aircraft for the next important sortie, or delaying the next wave of aircraft,” SQNLDR Phillips said.

75SQN maintenance person-nel analysed the issue and found that the main cause of the incidents was hydraulic oil that had leaked on to the main landing gear brake unit.

The hydraulic connection point on the F/A-18A is near to the main wheel assembly, and occasionally small quantities of hydraulic oil can leak on to the main wheel brake assemblies.

This can occur when the ground hydraulic units are disconnected from the aircraft after maintenance.

CPL Shannan Nichols, of 75SQN’s hydraulic bay, designed a cover for the main wheel to protect the brake assem-bly from hydraulic oil spillage.

“75SQN Aircraft Life Support Section then took my design and

made the covers, at minimal cost to Defence,” CPL Nichols said.

This simple solution has signifi-cantly reduced the occurrence rate of ‘hot brakes’ incidents experienced by 75SQN aircraft, reduced the resource burden for both the fire section and 75SQN maintenance personnel, and more importantly, increased aircraft availability.

SQNLDR Phillips said 75SQN maintenance personnel were always looking at ways to improve how they conduct business.

Simple solution for a hot issue

THE WHEEL DEAL: The cover developed to protect the jet’s brake assembly from spillage.

KEEPING THEM FLYING: A 75SQN Hornet in flight. Photo: CPL Casey Smith

SeSeSeSeSeSeeptptptptptptptemememememememmbebebebebebebeberrr rrrr r 272727272727272727,,,,,, 20202020200202020001212121212121212121212RCEAAIR F

KEEPING THEM FLYING: A 75SQN Hornet in flight.Photo: CPL Casey Smith


WHAT started out as a discussion between two officers about a book at RAAF Base East Sale turned in to a show of strength, endurance, intelligence and, most importantly, compassion.

The CO of the School of Air Traffic Control, WGCDR Pat Cooper, and 30SQN chaplain SQNLDR Bruce Grey had both read the book, Half the Sky: Turning Oppress ion into Opportuni ty for Women Worldwide, written by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, which details the extraor-dinary stories of struggling women in Asia and Africa.

With a shared desire to raise awareness of these struggles and somehow organise an effort to con-tribute, they initiated the “Half the Sky” campaign.

The campaign culminated in a day of physical challenges on July 20 to determine the strongest, fastest and smartest members at East Sale.

More than $5500 has been raised for Care Australia since that day, with $1100 of that coming from the efforts of one woman.

FLTLT Alice Paton, of the Training Aircraft Systems Program Office, used the opportunity to chal-lenge herself and execute the perfect heave.

FLTLT Paton trained tirelessly to achieve her goal – a mammoth task as her starting score was zero.

As word spread about her train-ing, so did the pledges.

Inspired to limits

SWEATING FOR CHARITY: SQNLDR Sarah Wheal, left, and CPL Bridget Jones put a lot of effort into the push-ups in their event; right, FLTLT Alice Paton tries the chin-ups for the “Half the Sky” challenge. Photos: CPL Steve Duncan

By the day of the challenge FLTLT Paton had donations totalling close to $200 a heave, in addition to some sizable lump sum payments.

Under the watchful eye of 30SQN PTIs, FSGT Pat Lynch and SGT Wes Rampling, FLTLT Paton performed four heaves.

Other challenges included push-ups, bench presses, the beep test and a quiz about the book, which started the outpouring of compassion.

In the men’s category, OFFCDT Jeremiah John achieved 14.5 on the beep test, PLTOFF Rob McMullan topped the heaves and FLTLT Saj

Ramasundara did the most push-ups. For the women, 30SQN’s CPL Bridget Jones was best at the heaves and the push-ups and SQNLDR Sarah Wheal won the beep test. Defence Support East Sale’s Heather Provan displayed her intellectual prowess by winning the quiz.

IN BRIEFFunding for researchDCAF AVM Leo Davies and former CAF AIRMSHL Errol McCormack (ret’d) have co-signed a funding deed to provide the Sir Richards William Foundation Inc with $50,000 to fund independent research and analysis on issues facing Defence in today’s complex security environment. AIRMSHL McCormack is chairman of the Sir Richards Foundation Inc, which will deliver reports that can be published in the public domain to educate, invite dis-cussion and invoke debate as well as help inform Air Force strategic planning.

More blood neededTHE Defence Organisation Blood Challenge is well under way, but Air Force has some work to do to catch up to its rivals. In the first three weeks of the chal-lenge, which started on September 1, Air Force recorded 68 donations, Army racked up 120 donations, followed by Navy with 81 and Defence APS with 78. Visit www.donateblood.com.au/who-can-give/club-red and register your intent to donate.

Legacy golf driveCDF GEN David Hurley got the ball roll-ing at the Royal Canberra Golf Club on August 4 when he launched the Remembrance Golf Day fundraising initiative. Golf clubs around Australia are being invited to participate in Remembrance Golf Day by asking each player to contribute an extra dollar on their green fees to support Legacy in the week leading up to Remembrance Day, November 4-11. GEN Hurley paid his gold coin donation before sinking the first putt of Remembrance Golf Day at the launch. For more information about the event, see www.remembrancegolf.com.au.

12 13RCEAIR FFPictorial Centrepiece September 27, 2012

LIKE CLOCKWORK: Above, Security Policeman LAC Lee Crowell who provides Force Protection services at Al Minhad Air Base.

KEEPING THINGS MOVING: Right, LAC Jason Cullen, a communication electronic technician on duty at the communications tower, and far right, co-pilot FLTLT Joshua Williams in front of an Orion on the Al MInhad Air Base flightline.

HELPING OUT: Left, LACW Amy Jennings stamps outgoing mail in the mail room; right, aeronautical engineer FLTLT Amanda Gosling and C-130 technician CPL Sam Laverty in the hangar; below, LAC Brian Dick on the flightline with the vehicle he uses as driver for Commander JTF633 MAJGEN Stuart Smith.

MAINTENANCE DUTY: Above, AP-3C technician LACW Aimee Spowart on the flightline.

Security Policeman

HEALTH FIRST: Medical assistant LACW Sarah Ngo checks her medical kit at Al Minhad Air Base.

Photos: SGT Mick Davis

ve,deas

veLIKE CLOCKWORK: AbovLAC Lee Crowell who proviservices at Al Minhad Air B

CLOCKWORK: Abov

HEALTH FIRST:Medical assistantLACW Sarah Ngo checks hermedical kitat Al Minhad Air Base.

Photos: SGTMick Davis

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CPL Mark Doran

CPL Brooke Shaw really knows how to handle the new Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon – but then it is her job, after all.

As a driver testing officer at the Land 121 Operator Training Facility at RAAF Base Amberley, CPL Shaw instructs Army and Air Force person-nel on Defence’s newest fleet vehicle.

The t ra in ing fac i l i ty holds G-Wagon conversion courses weekly, with an average of 18 students, for Defence personnel who already hold the Land Rover (C2) licence.

The course consists of theory and capability as well as learning the skills involved in tyre changing, crossing difficult terrain and driving on black-out lighting.

Drivers are instructed in theory at a new purpose-built facility at Amberley then continue with their practical driv-ing lessons at the nearby Janowen 4WD Park.

CPL Shaw was part of the Land 121 training team that demonstrated the G-Wagon’s capabilities at a media day at the Janowen 4WD park near Amberley on September 4.

The media day was the first opportunity for guests to see the G-Wagon being put through its paces since the main roll-out of new vehi-cles began in July as part of Project Land 121.

So far, 41 vehicles and 16 trailers have been delivered to Air Force units under the project, which will deliver a

➤ Engine: V6 turbo producing 135kW/400Nm.

➤ Transmission: Five-speed tip-tronic gearbox.

➤ Fuel use (claimed): 10L/100km combined.

➤ RRP: From about $220,000 depending on variant and options.

➤ All G-Wagons are hard-wired with communication cabling for anten-na mounts and power supplies, and when delivered are fitted with radio mounting brackets which allow the operators to install their radios and connect their cables.

➤ The G-Wagon provides current-generation technology and improved safety for drivers and passengers as a result of mod-ern design features including enhanced roll-over protection and handling.

➤ Other features include electronic data-control units which help the vehicle operate to its optimum potential and on-board data col-lectors which store the fleet man-agement data.

➤ The vehicle is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction.

➤ G is for Geländewagen, which is German for cross-country vehicle.

total of 2146 G-Wagons and trailers to the ADF, replacing about two-thirds of the current Land Rover fleet over the next four years.

CPL Shaw said it was “very excit-ing introducing a new capability to Defence”.

“The G-Wagon has state-of-the-art design technology, it gives the crew a comfortable ride which helps with fatigue management and is Euro 5-compliant, which means it’s an

Gearing up the G-Wagon

environmentally friendly vehicle,” she said. “I really enjoy driving it – it is a very capable vehicle. It is smarter and, with its automatic trans-mission and air conditioning, is a fantastic new asset to Defence and a huge improvement on the Land Rover.”

CPL Shaw said part of the G-Wagon training involved obstacle crossings – but the secret was to go slow.

“Water crossings are a lot easier because there is less preparation need-ed as the fording switch cuts power to the alternators and the vehicle can cross 750mm of fresh or 600mm of salt water,” she said.

“Once low-range is selected, all electronic systems and ABS are rema-pped for better off-road performance.”

More than 10,000 students will be trained on the G-Wagon over the next 10 years.

FEATURESG-WAGON TRAIN: Driver testing officer CPL Brooke Shaw who said it was very exciting introducing a new capability to Defence. Photos: CPL Mark Doran

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16 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FFNews

FLTLT Nick O’Connor

TO THE applause of the crowd, officers and airmen marched through the streets of Brisbane in true Air Force tradition on August 25.

More than 90 members of RAAF Base Amberley’s No. 23 (City of Brisbane) Squadron exercised their Freedom of Entry into the city.

CO WGCDR Simon Nickson said the occasion was an important component of the squadron’s 75th anniversary

celebrations this year. “It was with great pride and distinc-tion that I accepted, on behalf of all the men and women of 23SQN, the ceremonial scroll that re-confirmed our Freedom of Entry to the City of Brisbane,” he said.

“As our name suggests, the squadron has a close and unbreakable tie with this mar-vellous city.”

Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk paid tribute to the professionalism of the men and women of 23SQN.

“Freedom of Entry is an age-old tradition granting military personnel the privilege to march through the city and we are proud to roll out the official welcome to the City of Brisbane Squadron;” Cr Quirk said.

“This ceremony is one of the highest civic honours that a city can bestow and demonstrates trust, loyalty and a sense of community.”

23SQN’s last Freedom of Entry march in Brisbane was exercised in April 2005.

AN HONOUR: Left, 23SQN CO WGCDR Simon Nickson seeks permission from Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk to exercise 23SQN’s Freedom of Entry to the City of Brisbane.

Photos: LACW Shannon McCarthy

PROUD MOMENT: Colours escort WOFF Mick Norton unveils 23SQN Colours.

Brisbane cheers Brisbane cheers for 23SQNfor 23SQN

17.9.1992 – 12.8. 2012

AUSTRALIAN Air Force Cadets at 712 Squadron at South Guildford in Western Australia are mourning the death of LCDT Rozanna Gavey.

LCDT Gavey, pictured right, served for four years in 712SQN, and was also a drummer in the No 7 Wing Drum Corps, which reg-ularly performs at large public events, including the Anzac Day March in Perth, at Government House and the Perth Royal Show.

712SQN CO FLTLT (AAFC) Nev Kent said regardless of circumstances, LCDT Gavey was always one of the first to arrive every Wednesday night.

“I remember one night she had hurt her back, and told me that while diving she had hit the boardwalk,” he said.

“My response that you are meant to dive off them, not on to them, resulted in a cheeky grin from her, a memory which will remain with me forever.

“We will always remember LCDT Gavey’s generosity to others and her service to family, community and the Australian Air Force Cadets,” FLTLT Kent said.

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17September 27, 2012RCEAIR FF Flightline

MAKING FRIENDS: Above, movements operator AC Kevin Ewart, of 1AOSS, talks to members of the Royal Thai Air Force at RAAF Base Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: LACW Shannon McCarthyBUG’S LIFE: Left, environmental health officer FLTLT Danielle Burrows examines a Rhinoceros Beetle aboard hospital ship USNS Mercy during Pacific Partnership 2012. Photo: FSGT Craig Sharp

COMMS CHECK: Above, LAC Adrian Domaschenz, of 3CRU, checks a communications unit at Delamere Range during Ex Pitch Black. Photo: SGT Shane Gidall

SPECIAL DETOUR: Air Force AFG member CPL Jason Jones at the Port Moresby end of the Kokoda Track in

Papua New Guinea. While in the country supporting 70th

anniversary commemorations for the Battle of Milne Bay,

AFG members took the opportunity to walk a portion

of the track. Photo: SGT Brent Tero

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18 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FPersonnel

Security tool box

AFTER hours medical support is set for a boost with the re-launch of the 1800 IMSICK service on October 1.

The enhanced 24-hour hot-line service will now be provided by Medibank Health Solutions (MHS) under the new ADF health services contract.

Commander Joint Health Command RADM Robyn Walker said she was pleased to be able to provide the world-class tel-ehealth capability through MHS.

“This is part of the new ADF health services contract which aims to provide a national, integrated health care services solution and assist Defence to streamline and optimise health care services with innovation and technology,” she said.

When calling the service ADF members can expect to talk

with a registered nurse who will require personal identification and geographical information to be able to assist them.

Depending on the nature of the illness or injury, entitled personnel will be appropriately triaged, with potential outcomes including: ➤ provision of advice on self-

care;➤ referral to an on-base or off-

base health facility; or➤ transfer to an emergency ser-

vice or all-hours support line (for mental health issues).The 1800 IMSICK number

should be used if a member becomes ill or injured after hours or is not close to a Defence health facility. In an emergency always dial 000.

Karlee Holland

UNDERSTANDING the new Australian Government Security Classification System (AGSCS) has just become easier thanks to a new desktop reference tool.

The tool, in the form of a pencil box, is designed to increase the awareness of changes to the national security classifications.

The head of Defence Security Authority’s Security Policy and Plans, Pat Burke, said the tool would assist staff to apply Defence’s tran-sitional classification system, effective from last month.

“While most government agencies were required to implement the AGSCS with a 2012 deadline, Defence has been given an extension until August 2013. This is due to the scale of Defence operations and the considerable amount of work required aligning Defence’s ICT sys-tems,” Mr Burke said.

“However, to cater for these differing imple-mentation timelines, a transitional classification system will operate until the department can adopt the AGSCS in full.”

The pencil box illustrates how the protec-tive markings for the transitional classification system map to both the previous classification system and the AGSCS, with each classification system displayed on a separate panel.

The reference tool is now available at select-ed Customer Service Centres, Defence Support Group Regions, and through the DSA regional offices. Copies can be ordered online at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/security/resourcesAp-plications/publications.html

For more information including a frequently asked ques-tions fact sheet, visit the Transition Management Portal at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/dsa/dsm/index.html

HANDY: A pencil box tool (pictured below inset) will make changes to security classifications easier. Photo: CPL Mark Doran After hours help is still

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19September 27, 2012RCEAIR FF Promotions feature

CHANGES to promotions approved by CAF will take effect from next year.

While you need to know these changes, it is also

important to understand that the underlying principles of the promo-tion system remains the same and improvement and adjustments must continue while we reshape the Air Force to deliver the best outcomes for future leadership.

Changes to the conduct of the 2013 Promotion Boards (PBs) will improve upon our ability to accu-rately report on our members and better utilise PARs as professional development tools, while command-ers will need to monitor and be held accountable for the PAR submission rates of their units.

It is vital that commanders and individuals place strong and ongo-ing emphasis on the professional development of not only themselves but that of their subordinates.

New PARs New PARs (AD647 and AD649)

are now available and assessors must update their templates on web-forms rather than use a previously saved version.

Key changes to the PAR include the introduction of an additional assessment within each performance dimension, moving to a new seven-level grading system.

This change means each tick box has been re-worded to include the seventh assessment.

The letters relating to each employment recommendation now follow a logical sequence and senior assessors are required to provide a recommendation on suitability for commissioning.

There are also new PRPs avail-able on webforms for all personnel to begin using for goal setting and mid-term reviews.

PAR submissionThe designated cut-off date for

submission of PARs to DP-AF is December 10. DI(AF)PERS 4-29 Performance Appraisal Reporting – Air Force details the reporting and submission timelines, with exten-sions to submission deadlines to be granted by OIC Promotions Cell.

The importance of timely PAR submissions has been communicat-ed to all commanders to ensure no member is disadvantaged as PARs received after December 10 may not be presented to the 2013 PBs.

Eligibility criteriaAs of next year, the eligibility

criteria for presentation to a PB has been extended to three years senior-ity from January 1 of the year of the promotion board.

This change is extended to the main target group (officers, FSGT, SGT and CPL) to allow greater time to demonstrate potential and techni-cal mastery in rank.

Eligibility criteria for LAC/W remains unchanged – two years sen-

Director of Personnel – Air Force GPCAPT Andrew Elfverson outlines what you need to know for the 2013 promotion cycle.

Changes that that affect you

LOOKING FORWARD: The underlying principles of the promotion system are unchanged. Photo: SGT Ricky Fuller

Other important forms

Supplementary Reports (SRs)SRs (AC833-30) are normally raised when the minimum four-month obser-vation period cannot be met, the mem-ber is attached from their parent unit or employed outside their normal chain of command, or a member performs sig-nificant secondary duties not observed by the part 2 assessor.

If this is the only report you have for the reporting period, ensure your asses-sor annotates a promotion recommen-dation. This will assist the PB in deter-mining your suitability for promotion.

Member’s Statement (MS)Introduced for the 2008 PBs, the MS (AD718) is your voice at the annual PBs.

Only the current year’s MS will be presented to the boards and it must be submitted by December 10.

This is an opportunity for you to raise anything you consider relevant to your promotability that has not been covered in your PAR, for example, per-sonal circumstances, tertiary qualifica-tions.

More information on these forms can be found on the DP-AF website.

iority. The 2013 PBs will be the first PB series where all members must have met their PMET requirements to be eligible. All members should be fully informed of their PMET liability and responsibilities and the implication for promotion if they are not met.

To ensure consistency is applied across all PB processes, a five-year reporting history will now be included for presentation to PBs for SGT, CPL and LAC/W, as appropri-ate.

Reservists will be required to have completed a minimum of 60 days over the preceding three reporting periods with a minimum of 20 days in the last reporting period to be eligible.

Promotion Board Codes Feedback from the 2012 PB

series highlighted that the PB codes are open to misinterpretation and that new codes should be imple-mented that are simple, clear and focused on reflecting the result of the PB and not be a prediction of how current PB performance might affect future PB deliberations.

In addition, to avoid any confu-sion with the current alphabetical PB codes and the alphabetical pro-motion recommendation codes con-tained in the new PAR formats, the 2013 PB codes will be as follows: ➤ a) recommended for promotion➤ b) competitive – performance and

experience of a standard sufficient to be considered for promotion;

➤ c) continued development required – performance and experience sat-isfactory but not sufficient to gain a promotion recommendation when compared to peers; and

➤ d) not promotable – performance and/or behaviour unsatisfactory as a result of an administrative sanction, civil conviction, DFDA conviction, ‘Not Recommended for Promotion’ recommendation supported by the narrative, no PARs, supplemen-tary reports or equivalent reports at current or higher substantive rank, or compulsory termination pending with all avenues of appeal exhausted.

PAR writingThe 2012 PBs resulted in an

overall increase in promotion tar-

gets for both officers and airmen. However, the effect is not consistent across all specialisations and mus-terings and, while low separation rates allow us to increase experi-ence levels, it also naturally leads to lower promotion opportunities in the short term.

The quality of the candidates presented to the 2012 PBs was extremely high, emphasising the need for members and their asses-sors to ensure that PARs are well-written and detailed.

The word picture is vital and should be used to provide specific instances of performance to sup-port the assessment made under each criterion. It should not simply regurgitate the essence of the ratings description.

All members should endeavour to familiarise themselves with the 2013 CAF PB guidance which will be available on the DP-AF website shortly.

Active Reserve PBsThe active reserve merit-based

promotion system is an ‘opt-in’ sys-tem intended to maximise informed choice of promotion opportunities.

Where promotion targets exist, DP-AF will call for active reservists to opt-in to be considered for pro-motion and subsequent posting to a nominated position at the next rank for their mustering/category.

When opting-in, eligible active reservists will be able to decide whether their personal circumstanc-es will suit consideration for promo-tion at that time.

Reservists should note that pro-motion positions will alter from year to year as vacancies dictate.

This is no different to the limited promotion opportunities in many PAF employment groups and simply reflects high retention rates in all parts of the Air Force.

In October, DP-AF staff will advise which active reserve posi-tions have been identified as promo-tion positions for 2013, and how individual reservists can opt-in for consideration for promotion to these positions. This information will be distributed via the Commanders Net and Air Force Connect. Importantly, promotion boards will again only be conducted where targets exist.

Photo: LAC Bill

Solomou

20 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FPersonnel

RoulettesSeptember 28: Deni Ute Muster, Deniliquin, Victoria.October 5-7: Supercheap Bathurst 1000, NSW.

Air Force BandSeptember 27: 29SQN Governor-General’s Banner presentation, RAAF Base Edinburgh.

Air Force events THE Women’s Integrated

Networking Groups (WINGs) pro-gram is now in full flight with the program being rolled out to all bases across Australia.

A range of high profile guest speakers have addressed recent meetings.

They include representatives from Queensland Police, Rio Tinto Iron Ore and Victoria Police, talking to Air Force women about leader-ship and careers.

AmberleyInspector Charysse Pond, from

Queensland Police, had some words of advice when she spoke at RAAF Base Amberley’s first WINGs ses-sion on August 29.

“Be yourself, don’t be one of the blokes and be consistent,” she said. “All of you are leaders, regardless of rank.”

Inspector Pond was accom-panied by four other Queensland police officers and they were given an opportunity to view a Super Hornet up close and learn about the unique experience of operating a fast-jet.

82WG air combat officer FLTLT Kathryn Grealy and pilot FLTLT Anna Lovatt also gave their per-spectives of working with cutting-edge technology and planning for operations.

Inspector Pond discussed her experiences of leading in a male-dominated environment, raising a family, moving locations and build-ing a career while “building resil-ience” in order to deal with the chal-lenges a career in policing brings.

Local WINGs coordinator SQNLDR September Clare said Inspector Pond had outlined some excellent strategies and programs the Queensland Police Service had

implemented to improve the reten-tion of their talent.

PearceLucy Stocker, from Rio Tinto

Iron Ore, knows first-hand about trying to implement flexible work arrangements.

She is one-half of General Manager Business Improvement, a role she is now job sharing, after returning to work part-time follow-ing having children.

Ms Stocker shared her insights and experiences with women at RAAF Base Pearce during their inaugural WINGs session on August 27.

Ms Stocker emphasised the importance for people to build their case for flexibility so that manage-ment and the chain of command could see the benefit of approving flexible working arrangements.

“People wanting flexible employment not only need to show how it will benefit them but also how the company/ADF will ben-efit,” Ms Stocker said.

She also discussed the impor-tance of building strong relation-ships within the workplace and with other women, emphasising the importance of embracing diversity within the workplace.

“Know each other and try to understand the different strengths that each of us have – in relation to race, religion, culture and, most importantly, diversity of thought,” she said.

Pearce WINGs coordinator FLTLT Linda Figgins said the ses-sion was a great success and she looked forward to Commander Michelle Fyfe, from Western Australia Police, speaking at the next scheduled session on November 14.

MelbourneDeputy Commissioner Lucinda

Nolan, from Victoria Police, spoke at the first RAAF Base Williams WINGs session on August 29.

Deputy Commissioner Nolan spoke about her career highlights and challenges.

WINGs Coordinator Williams WGCDR Jude McCann said the women were inspired to hear about her career journey and her insights as a female leader.

“It was great to have a chance to talk to such a high profile woman who has been there and succeeded,” WGCDR Jude McCann said.

CanberraCanberra held its first meet-

ing on August 28, coordinated by WGCDR Barbara Courtney, FLTLT Gina Kimmins and their team.

The direction of future Canberra sessions will be guided by a mem-bers’ survey.

“We are busy collating the responses to produce the program for the rest of 2012,” WGCDR Courtney said.

In attendance was GPCAPT Fiona Dowse who said that “this type of program is exactly what we need to enable senior women to share their knowledge and experi-ences with other Air Force women and it is pleasing to see the wide range of experience in the room”.

The next meeting on October 17 will cover flexible working arrangements. For details, contact FLTLT Kimmins at [email protected]

For more information on WINGs, con-tact SQNLDR Jade Deveney at [email protected]

IN BRIEF

ADF health surveyADF health services transitioned in January from single services to being the responsibility of Joint Health Command (JHC), which now has joint health units. If ADF members attend one of these services, JHC wants to hear their thoughts about how clinics could be improved. JHC and the Strategic Personnel Policy and Research Directorate have a customer satisfaction survey running until November 16 to understand per-ceptions of the quality of services and identify gaps for improvement. ADF members who access JHC health ser-vices from September until November might receive an email to participate in the private and confidential 10-min-ute survey. For further information, contact [email protected]

CIS conferenceTHE annual Air Force Communications and Information Systems Conference will be held in the R1 Theatrette at Russell Offices in Canberra on October 22 and 23. The conference will be based on “The future Air Force CIS Workforce – trained, structured and responsive for the future Networked Air Force”. For information, see http://caas/TeamWeb2010/RAAF/cis/AFCIS_Conferences/2012/SitePages/Home.aspx

WINGS takes WINGS takes flightflight

BE YOURSELF: Guest speaker Inspector Charysse Pond addresses the first Women’s Integrated Networking Group session held at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: LACW Shannon McCarthy

PERSPECTIVE: 82WG air combat officer FLTLT Kathryn Grealy discusses her experiences in the Air Force with members of the Queensland Police in the 82WG hangar.

Photo: LACW Shannon McCarthy

PEARCE: Lucy Stocker, from Rio Tinto Iron Ore, centre left, who spoke about flexible work arrangements.

WILLIAMS: WGCDR Jude McCann, right, with guest speaker Deputy Commissioner Lucinda Nolan.

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21September 27, 2012RCEAIR FF History

Sara Tennant

SQNLDR Bob Cowper (ret’d) was joined by his wife Kay and their extended family for the unveiling of the Bob Cowper Display at the RAAF Base Edinburgh Officers’ Mess on September 11.

Also present were ACAUST AVM Hupfeld, Commander Aerospace Operational Support Group AIRCDRE Noel Derwort and a large number of Air Force members.

The display, which includes items from Bob’s military career, including his uniform and photographs, also represents 456 Night Fighter Squadron.

Bob delivered an emotional speech and presented the original artwork for the 456SQN badge to AVM Hupfeld.

“I hope this display represents not just me, but all those WWII men and women who gave their service and lives to win-ning this war that I was lucky to survive,” Bob said.

“Sadly there are few of us left … but with the blessing of those who remain, and on behalf of my 456SQN members in the air and on the ground, I would like to donate this original painting of our squad-ron badge to the Mess.”

Bob also made special mention of his wife Kay, one of the last remaining WAAF plotters who served in the opera-tion room at Kenley, south of London, during the Battle of Britain.

“That’s why I try to look after her so well, she’s a bit of an icon,” he said.

ACAUST highlighted the many simi-larities between he and Bob, saying they were both fighter pilots and both hail from

Broken Hill, also mentioning his surname is German.

“Although that’s not exactly a direct link to Bob’s military history,” AVM Hupfeld said.

“It is very special for today’s Air Force members to be able to see Bob’s items to remind us of the deeds of those who served in WWII and the sacrifices they made.”

Bob was a junior draftsman and an apprentice fitter and turner before joining the RAAF in 1940 on his 18th birthday.

He spent five years in the RAAF as a night fighter pilot, being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1944 and Bar to DFC in 1945. On June 6, 2004, he was awarded the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (France).

Bob was acting CO of 456SQN at the end of WWII and continues to be president of the 456 RAAF Night Fighter Association.

456SQN was the RAAF’s only Night Fighter Unit of WWII and saw service over Britain and Europe. Formed on June 30, 1941, at RAF Valley in Wales, foun-dation members of the squadron were a mixture of British and Australian personnel.

456SQN finished the war with a total of 42 enemy aircraft destroyed, as well as 29 V1 flying bombs, many locomo-tives and other ground targets.

Opening the memories

MOVING MOMENT: AVM Mel Hupfeld shakes hands with SQNLDR Bob Cowper (ret’d) in appreciation of the historical display made available in the RAAF Base Edinburgh Officers’ Mess; left, Bob Cowper with his wife Kay and extended family at the unveiling. Photos: LAC Brenton Kwaterski

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22 September 27, 2012RCEAIR FHealth

ALMOST everyone will experi-ence back pain at some stage. Most will recover rapidly, how-ever, for some the agony is long

term – but there is help available and it all started with a fellow named Jo.

Joseph Pilates developed the system we know today as Pilates in the early 20th century in Germany. He combined natural movement with minimal equip-ment concentrating on posture, core sta-bility, balance, strength, flexibility and breathing.

Although most people have heard of pilates some still tend to think of it as a dance class.

Clinical Pilates uses the principles developed by Joseph Pilates and incor-porates current medical research to bring together an effective way to control and treat back pain.

Duntroon physiotherapist Diana Bonner said her classes were about building a resistance to recurring back pain by working on restoring a strong and flexible body.

“Rather than building a strong inflex-ible outer shell of muscle, you are build-ing something flexible that can absorb movement without causing pain,” she said.

“We look at core stability and the tiny muscles holding onto the joints and how they all interact with normal move-ment patterns.”

Clinical Pilates teaches patients to

retake control of their body to control and protect elements such as the spine.

It does this by identifying and reduc-ing any additional movements that have been developed to compensate for pain when people initially hurt their back.

Techniques taught in Ms Bonner’s classes do not need fancy equipment and use easily accessible items such as elas-tic bands, balls, free weights, as well as using the wall and the floor for referenc-ing.

“The body is naturally curvy, so we use the floor and walls to find these curves, in an attempt to become more aware of what is ‘normal’ and how to quickly assess and restore and maintain it,” Ms Bonner said.

“You can take these exercises from the class and use them anywhere to underpin any and all that keeps you fit for your lifestyle.

“It’s like an insurance policy that is going to keep your back working well.”

Ms Bonner said once patients com-pleted the program they would be able to take the principles learnt from the class and use them in normal training.

“The aim is to give you confidence to do normal activities again, comfortably, safely and without the fear of hurting your back.”

If you suffer from back pain it is important to be examined properly by medical personnel to ensure you get the correct treatment.

A pain of a problemWhen back pain strikes, Clinical Pilates could deliver a solution to keep it at bay for good, CPL Nick Wiseman reports.

JUST LIKE JO: Diana Bonner takes CPL Nick Wiseman through a Pilates exercise called a four point kneeling position. It is a good starting position to gain control through the lumbar spine and to start to recruit the deep abdominal muscles. Photo: LAC Bill Solomou

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From Back PageLACW MacPherson’s best week-

end of training so far came just after we talked to her on September 11. She ran 30km on the previous Saturday and rode her bike 200km on the Sunday.

“I have had a few niggling problems with my hip which has been annoying but hasn’t altered the training much, so all seems to be going to plan and hope-fully I am on track for my goal time,” she said.

“I have been going to a doctor who uses Chinese alternate remedies and that seems to be working with the hip injury.”

She has also turned her attention to her dietary needs for the race.

23September 27, 2012RCEAIR F Sp rt

Timing her run for Hawaii

“I have been eating on the weekends exactly what I want to eat on race day. So, when I do my long ride, I take out all of the food and electrolyte that I plan to use on race day and train on that.

“I haven’t done that in the past – usu-ally I just took whatever nutrition I have in the cupboard.”

TRIATHLON FOCUS: LACW Grace MacPherson who has targeted her training.

THE Air Force was front and cen-tre – literally – when FSGT Garry Browning rode his motorcycle 3140km through the outback in the Black Dog Ride to raise awareness and money for depression support ser-vices.

Mounted on his handbars was one of the Air Force teddy bears.

And his wife, Carolyn, who drove the support pickup truck, had three Air Force bears – a big one flanked by two small ones – mounted on her bonnet.

“He was good company for me,” FSGT Browning, a PTI at 24SQN RAAF Base Edinburgh, said of his travelling companion, who did the whole trip without complaint.

FSGT Browning was one of 15 South Australian riders who started their trek in Adelaide on August 18 and rode for six days to Alice Springs via Mt Gambier, Mildura, Port Augusta and Coober Pedy, joining up with riders from other states and ter-ritories along the way.

By the time they reached the Red Centre, there were more than 200 of them and they rode and roared togeth-er through Todd Mall.

FSGT Browning, who has depres-sion, says that his goal is to raise

awareness of the condition within the Defence Force and the general public, especially among young people.

“You don’t need to be alone and suffer in silence. There are avenues of help out there,” he said.

This was the second time FSGT Browning had participated in the ride, once again on his Suzuki Boulevard

M109R 1800cc motorcycle which, he said, handled beautifully.

Last year he was a newbie though, recovering from a recent bout of depression.

This year he was in much better mental shape and took on the added role of South Australian coordinator. This gave him a different insight. Most of the other South Australian riders were riding from the first time, some of them sufferers themselves, others who knew someone suffering from depres-sion or someone who had committed suicide because of it.

At last count, the Black Dog Ride had raised about $250,000 nationwide for the Black Dog Institute, which will go towards awareness, education and research.

FSGT Browning is grateful for Air Force’s and 24SQN management’s sup-port.

The issue is not lost on CO 24SQN WGCDR Breck Tonkin.

“How we treat our people during times of personal challenge is a meas-ure of how valued they feel,” WGCDR Tonkin said.

“It was very important to Garry to be part of this and the squadron was happy to support him.”

Rev-up for a causeRev-up for a cause

READY, TEDDY, GO: FSGT Garry Browning sits on his motorcycle with some of his travelling companions Photo: LAC David Cotton

3140km Black Dog ride raises awareness

FRONT-ROW SEATS: The Air Force Bears on the bonnet of the support vehicle.

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Homing in on Hawaii Ironman timeJohn Martin

TRIATHLETE LACW Grace MacPherson hopes an adjustment to her training schedule will help her when she competes in the Hawaii Ironman on October 13.

Aside from increasing the inten-sity of her training in recent weeks, LACW MacPherson changed her reg-

ular 12km track session from Tuesday morning to Tuesday afternoon so she could get used to the timeslot for Hawaii.

“It will be around 1.30pm when I get off the bike so I have been trying to get used to this,” she said.

LACW MacPherson, a reservist with 381 Expeditionary Squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown, leaves for

Honolulu on September 30 which will give her two weeks to acclima-tise to the climate and six-hour time difference.

She qualified for the world-famous triathlon last December when she was part of an Australian Defence Sports Triathlon team which went to Phuket in Thailand and she won the women’s 20-24

age group in the Asia-Pacific 70.3 half-mar-athon.

Since then, her main triathlon focus has been on the gruelling Hawaiian Ironman, which will consist of a 3.8km swim, 180km ride and 42km run.

Continued on

Howzat at Al Minhad

DON’T expect master blaster Dave Warner to stride to the wicket wearing combat body armour at the Twenty20 cricket World Cup in Sri Lanka – but Warner and his Australian teammates will carry some ADF know-how with them.

The 16-man Australian Twenty20 team visited Joint Task Force 633 personnel at Al Minhad Air Base on September 8.

The team was in the United Arab Emirates to play a series of 50-over and 20-over games against Afghanistan and Pakistan ahead of the World Cup in Sri Lanka from September 18-October 7.

The team was given a tour of the Al Minhad facilities and given a dem-onstration of the induction training undertaken by deployed personnel, including care of battle casualties,

counter improvised explosive device training and combat body armour fitting.

The CO of Force Support Unit, LTCOL Phillip McMaster, said it was a humbling experience.

“We’ve been incredibly privileged that an elite sporting team would take the time out of their hectic timetable to visit us,” LTCOL McMaster said.

“Everyone was absolutely rapt.”

In turn, he said, the cricketers told them that the training provided at Al Minhad Air Base had provided them with an insight into how ADF person-nel made decisions under pressure.

While at the base, the team, including captain George Bailey and vice-captain Shane Watson, paid their respects to the five diggers who lost their lives in recent weeks, and laid a wreath in tribute to the 38 men who

have lost their lives while serving in Afghanistan.

“It gives us great perspective to be here at a time like this,” Bailey said.

“It’s a really sobering experience and the respect that we have for the soldiers, sailors and airmen and everything they’re doing was really brought home, so we really appreciat-ed having the opportunity to express our condolences.”

EYES ON THE CLOCK: LACW Grace MacPherson.

WORLD CUP BOUND: Left, Dave Warner tries body armour for size; right, Brad Hogg and Mike Hussey in the cockpit of a C-130J Hercules; below, Shane Watson signs a shirt for FLTLT Matthew Doherty.

Photos: SGT Rob Mitchell

BEARING UP WELL ON A MOTORBIKE TO RAISE AWARENESS OF DEPRESSION – PAGE 23

AIRF RRCECE - Department of Defence · 2015. 3. 17. · AIRF RRCECE Vol. 54, No. 18, September 27,...

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