Vol. 56, No. 22, November 20, 2014 The official newspaper ... · PDF fileAIRF RCE Vol. 56, No....

AIRF RCEVol. 56, No. 22, November 20, 2014 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

HISTORY MADE

Ceremony marks full access to

part of Woomera for

Maralinga Tjarutja

community

PAGE 5

Deputy Director Woomera Test Range WGCDR Jason McHeyzer accompanies Maralinga Tjarutja Chairman Sonny Pepper as he addresses participants at the ceremony at Maralinga Airfield in South Australia. Photo: LAC Michael Green

HAvE your sAy in our rEAdErsHiP survEyhttp://defencesurveys.com.au/anon/335.aspx

– Centrepiece

2 November 20, 2014RCEAIR FNews

AirForce.gov.au

youtube.com/AirForceHQ

facebook.com/RoyalAustralianAirForce

twitter.com/AirForceHQ

RCEAIR FDirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

EditorLauren Norton: (02) 6266 7615Email: [email protected]

Deputy Editor John Martin: (02) 6265 7219

ReportersWO2 Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614SGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Aaron Curran: (02) 6265 1355 CPL Nick Wiseman: (02) 6265 4140CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304LS Jayson Tufrey: (02) 6266 7606Michael Brooke: (02) 6265 3119

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

ADVERTISING and SUBSCRIPTIONSMarketing ManagerTim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or 0459 842 551

Assistant Marketing ManagerTrish Dillon: (02) 6266 7607

Email: [email protected] [email protected]

DISCLAIMER

Air Force News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence Newspapers 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 advertise-ment is subject to Directorate of Defence Newspapers and Multimedia approval and the Directorate of Defence Newspapers 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 Newspapers and Multimedia. Defence does not endorse the products or services pub-lished in advertisements.

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

twitter.com/DeptDefence

TesT flights with an RAAF KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport will increase the type’s already substantial capability to conduct air-to-air refuel-ling operations.

The hose-and-drogue refuelling pods on the KC-30A, mounted beneath the aircraft’s wing, were the focus of test flights in late October in the skies of south Australia.

Commander Air Mobility Group AIRCDRe Warren McDonald said ini-tial clearance for the aircraft to refuel the RAAF Hornets and super Hornets using the hose-and-drogue had been granted in early 2013.

“We’ve undergone a program of modifying the refuelling pods in 2014, improving their reliability and stabil-ity during refuelling,” AIRCDRe McDonald said.

During the trials, a KC-30A and an F/A-18B from Aircraft Research and Development Unit were equipped with flight test instrumentation designed and installed by Aerospace systems engineering squadron.

“It’s critical that the hose-and-drogue remains stable while two air-craft fly in close formation at more than 600km/h,” AIRCDRe McDonald said.

“The hose must cope with the ‘stresses’ of being connected to two aircraft, while simultaneously allowing 1600 litres of fuel a minute to flow.”

Results from the successful comple-tion of the trials will be passed on to RAAF’s Air Combat Group, as well as allied air forces, providing a clearer picture of the safety and capability for refuelling from the KC-30A.

Foreign aircraft in Iraq have been

refuelling from RAAF under a tempo-rary clearance. This successful testing will enable a permanent clearance to be issued.

“The current operational experience and exposure to other nations is giving the KC-30A a well-deserved reputa-tion as a modern and reliable tanker,” AIRCDRe McDonald said.

The KC-30A’s ability to conduct air-to-air refuelling will grow next year, with RAAF commencing trials and training with the aircraft’s Aerial Refuelling Boom system (ARBs).

successful modification and trials with the ARBs were completed by Airbus Defence and space in europe this year.

The Air Force’s five KC-30As each have a fuel capacity of more than 100 tonnes.

Tanker trial triumph

System helps ensure success

An F/A-18 Hornet takes on fuel during an air-to-air refuelling trial with a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport. Photo: FLGOFF Michael Newby

ASESQN team members involved in the trials.

Photo: CPL David Gibbs

OFFCDT Alexandra Hendry

A neW system was the unsung hero behind the success of the recent KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport trials to clear RAAF and allied aircraft for air-to-air refuelling.

Designed by the Aerospace systems engineering squadron (AsesQn) in just seven weeks, the closure rate measurement system installed in the test tanker helped the receiving air-craft’s pilot determine the rate of their approach, maximising the likelihood of test point accuracy.

AsesQn aeromechanical design engineer Jeremy sequeira said the sys-tem would help improve aircraft and pilot safety in support of developing an unrestricted clearance for RAAF and

allied aircraft to refuel from RAAF KC-30As.

“The system ensures the pilot is engaging the tanker at the planned closure rate, in a test build-up process that minimised the chance of the hose breaking, or damaging the aircraft receiving the fuel,” Mr sequeira said.

Development and Test Wing (DTWG) Task Coordinator Colin White said AsesQn’s closure rate system, combined with the Aircraft Research and Development Unit’s (ARDU) test planning and conduct process and Raytheon’s installation of an instru-mented in-flight refuelling probe on the F/A-18 Classic Hornet, ensured the tri-als were a success.

“We were able to successfully measure the probe loads at the pre-

scribed closure rates and quantify the critical hose reel response characteris-tics,” Mr White said.

“We are required to perform these tests at closure rates that are much greater than would normally be used operationally.

“Thanks to the team’s profession-alism and expertise, we were able to incrementally expand the envelope in a controlled environment that ensured both aircraft remained undamaged.”

ARDU test pilot sQnLDR Peter Tippner flew the Hornet containing AsesQn’s purpose-built flight test instrumentation during the trials out of RAAF Base edinburgh.

“I received radio calls from the flight test engineers on board the tanker advising me to speed up or slow down

the Hornet to safely connect to the hose for refuelling at prescribed test condi-tions,” sQnLDR Tippner said.

“We pushed the boundaries and tested different closure rates from 1.2 knots (slow) to 6 knots (fast) to define the limits and ensure everything worked perfectly.”

Two Us navy Air systems Command (nAVAIR) representatives attended the trials. nAVAIR senior Flight Test engineer Brion Picard said he was impressed with the KC-30A refuelling capability.

“I’ve worked on many different tanker platforms and this is the best system I’ve seen,” Mr Picard said.

“We feel confident having Us navy aircraft refuelling from RAAF KC-30As, and optimistic about extend-

ing the refuelling capability to other aircraft including super Hornets.”

The trials involved a team of almost 100 personnel – 69 from Aerospace Operational support Group, 16 from no. 33 squadron, six from no. 81 Wing, six from Air Mobility Group and two from Us nAVAIR.

eight sorties totalling more than 50 flying hours were conducted over 11 days.

OC DTWG GPCAPT Ross Bender was impressed with the team’s profes-sionalism and dedication.

“It is certainly not easy conducting a complex, high-risk flight test program on such a tight schedule, but the unwa-vering dedication and professionalism of all involved ensured the trials were a success,” GPCAPT Bender said.

FOR more on our KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport in the Middle East, see this edition’s special liftout.

3November 20, 2014RCEAIR F News

New arrangement comes into effect this month. Productivity measures

Impact on conditions of service

Extra recreation leave (ERL)

The introduction of ERL in the 1970s gave commanders the option to grant up to five days each year to rest and recu-perate after performing arduous and prolonged duty. Since the introduction of ERL, the ADF introduced field leave in 1996 and reviewed flight duties and seagoing leave – all types of leave that compensate ADF members for arduous and prolonged duty. The approval for commanders to grant ERL has been removed as it was not applied equitably across the ADF. Commanders still retain the capacity to approve other types of leave including short absence from duty for ADF members to rest and recuperate following arduous and prolonged duty.

CDF Christmas stand down day

The ADF Christmas stand down days flowed from the equivalent Australian Public Service arrangement that began in 2002/03. With the removal of one stand-down day, ADF members can use one day of accrued leave, such as recreation, seagoing, field and flight duty leave. If an ADF member is not required for duty and no other leave is avail-able, commanders retain the capacity to approve short absence. The removal of the Christmas stand down day does not occur on the days between Christmas Day to New Years Day.

Vehicle allowance When a member was authorised to use their private vehicle for travel, depending on their engine capacity, one of three rates was payable. Rationalisation of the previous three rates to a single rate of $0.63/km reduces the administration costs associated with managing three separate rates and reflects the improved fuel efficiency of modern vehicles and will simplify and reduce the cost of administration.

Daily distance travel With the improvements in the national road infrastructure and capacity of modern vehicles to travel long distances safely, the allowable daily driving distance for ADF members will increase. The allowable driving distance that an ADF member may drive in one day without a trailer will increase from 480km to 600km, and with a trailer will increase from 360km to 500km.

Replacement of food allowance with a one-off larder payment for members categorised as Member With Dependants (Unaccompanied) (MWD(U))

It is recognised that living away from dependent families (MWD(U)) incurs living expenses that members would not normally be required to meet. Food allowance was paid fortnightly to members categorised as MWD(U) who lived off base to assist with food expenses and in setting up a pantry. However, the normal need for an ADF member to provide for their own meals is not considered to be one of those living expenses as the member would be required to fund their own meals if they were living with their depend-ents. In addition, single members who live out are required to provide for their own meals. On this basis, food allowance has been ceased and replaced with a one-off larder pay-ment. This one-off larder payment recognises the expense a member faces in setting-up a second larder away from their primary residence. A range of other MWD(U) benefits remain, which include reunion travel, assistance with utility costs, separation allowance, and the waiver of rental con-tribution for members that live in off-base accommodation. ADF members categorised MWD(U) that live in on-base accommodation will retain the free meal entitlement when using mess facilities.

Higher duties allowance

Historically, less than 1 per cent of higher duties applica-tions were approved for five days or less. The increase in the qualifying period for higher duties from five to 10 days aligns with the other qualifying conditions, reduces adminis-tration costs and aligns with pay structure changes.

Details on the 2014 WRA are on the ADF Pay and Conditions website, http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac/ and People Connect website, http://intranet.defence.gov.au/people/sites/peopleconnect/ComWeb.asp?Page=110472 or simply scan the QR code with a smart phone.

Find out more

What WRA means for youT h e D e f e n c e F o r c e Remuneration Tribunal has approved the ADF Workplace Remunerat ion Arrangement ( W R A ) w i t h e ff e c t f r o m November 6.

The 2014 WRA will provide a 4.5 per cent pay increase over the three years of the arrange-ment.

The decision, announced on November 3, means more than 70,000 ADF Permanent and Reserve members will get a 1.5 per cent pay increase each November starting this year.

The across-the-board increas-es will also be applied to the 15 salary-related allowances ADF members can also receive if eli-gible.

The decision ends the final stage of the 2014 WRA process that began across the ADF in June, with 70 information ses-sions held in bases around the nation, attended by more than 3300 members from the three Services.

C A F A I R M S h L G e o ff Brown said the approval of the

2014 WRA followed extensive negotiation by Defence’s senior leadership.

“The CDF represented the servicemen and women of the ADF in the WRA negotiations,” AIRMShL Brown said.

“he advocated very strongly to preserve the conditions of ser-vice for all our members who are doing outstanding work both here in Australia and overseas.

“I acknowledge that the result is not what many were hoping for, however, I am confident that we have received the best out-come possible within the fiscal constraints.”

The implementation plan for the six productivity measures is yet to be finalised.

The changes will not be implemented before March 1, 2015.

Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

Photo: AB Tom Gibson

THE Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal (DFRT) was established in 1984.

It is an independent body responsible for the determination of military salary and allowances.

The DFRT consists of three members, of whom one must be a former member of the ADF.

The tribunal is responsible for approving Workplace Remuneration Arrangements.

In developing the 2014 WRA, the ADF and Commonwealth worked closely to ensure the arrangement was consistent with government policies relating to work-place relations and wages.

The DFRT has presided over the Graded Officer Pay Structure (GOPS) review in 2006 and the Graded Other Ranks Pay Structure (GORPS) review in 2007.

WRAs have delivered a 37.8 per cent increase to ADF pay, against a CPI increase of 28 per cent over the same period.

The ongoing Salary-Related Allowance Review has delivered reforms such as increases to Service Allowance and the new Maritime Allowances.

About the tribunal

With DHA’s easy-to-use LIA allocation and booking system you will be able to secure one of the 40,000 beds across Australia within minutes.

You can:• book your LIA• receive immediate notification of your booking• manage your accommodation bookings.

If you have any trouble with your booking, refer to our help tips and instructions. You can also contact the LIA Contact Centre support team via phone, online enquiry or email.

So, log in this morning, this afternoon or tonight.Access Online Services, 24/7.

dha.gov.au/LIA 139 342 [email protected]

Online Services

It’s so easy to use, you could book your LIA in your sleep


LS Jayson Tufrey

ONE hundred years after thousands of soldiers marched to waiting ships bound for World War I, thousands of people turned up to Albany in southern Western Australia to mark the centenary of that first departure.

The Albany Convoy Commemorative Event was held from October 31 to November 2.

About 800 Defence personnel par-ticipated in the activities, including 21 members from RAAF Base Pearce who flew the flag for Air Force as they marched through the streets. Seven of them were from No. 79 Squadron, seven from No. 2 Flying Training School (2FTS), six from No. 25 Squadron and one from No. 453 Squadron.

One of the marchers, LAC Brendan Smith, of 79SQN, said he was honoured.

“The feeling of pride as we made our way up that hill was indescribable – an amazing experience,” he said. “The men and women who sailed from here for the Great War put their lives on the line to allow us to live the life we do now.

“Many of them didn’t return, and it’s an honour to be able to commemorate the event 100 years later.”

The event was the first Australian-based activity for the centenary of Anzac and was supported with five ships and one submarine from the Royal Australian Navy, one Royal New Zealand Navy ship and one Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force ship.

Soldiers from 13 Brigade led the troop march and four PC-9 trainers from 2FTS did two displays, flying in tight formation over the parade.

The Albany event featured a RAN

ceremonial sunset, community concerts, a triservice commemorative event, a troop march, a commemorative departure of the ships, a wreath-laying service and an Australian football match.

VIPs included Prime Minister Tony Abbott, New Zealand prime minister John Key, CDF ACM Mark Binskin, Governor-General GEN Sir Peter Cosgrove and other high ranking mem-bers of the military from Australia, New Zealand, Britain, Japan and France.

The troop march followed in the foot-steps of the Anzacs.

On November 1, 1914, the soldiers of the Australian Imperial Force and New Zealand Expeditionary Force left the tiny coastal town of Albany on RAN troop ships, escorted by warships.

Thousands of troops had made their way down the hill to the waiting ships.

They had come from all corners of the fledgling nation of less than five mil-lion.

Albany was the last Australian port these troops saw before starting their training in Egypt and, for many, ultimately taking part in landings at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915.

World War I was part of the evolution of the RAAF.

Aviators then were part of the Australian Flying Corps, which came under the Army’s umbrella.

In World War I, they heralded the entry of air power into modern warfare by dropping hand-held bombs from the cockpit, and strafing targets with rudimentary fuselage-mounted machine guns.

Most of them made the switch to the RAAF when it was formed in 1921.

Following the WWI footsteps

Defence force chiefs from Australia and New Zealand, CN VADM Tim Barrett, Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force LTGEN Timothy Keating and CDF ACM Mark Binskin, participate in the march. Photo: AB Jake Badior

Four PC-9 from RAAF Base Pearce perform a formation flyover over the troop march.Photo: AB Jake Badior

HMAS Arunta leads ships of the RAN, Royal New Zealand Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force during the symbolic departure. Photo: CPO David Connolly

Air Force members were among the marchers. Photo: courtesy WA Police

www.airforceshop.com.au/gifts02 6123 2930

Gifts for all occasionsFarewells - Promotions - Christmas

Check out our gift page


THE management of the Woomera range and its associ-ated facilities will be reorgan-ised next year and include the establishment of a new RAAF Base.

From January 2015, the entire Woomera capability will be called the Woomera Range Complex, and will comprise both the Woomera Test Range and the newly established RAAF Base Woomera.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown announced the changes on November 5.

“The reorganisation of the

Woomera Range Complex will bring the facility into line with other Defence establishments and will allow the outstand-ing work done at Woomera to continue well into the future,” AIRMSHL Brown said.

“Woomera provides a sig-nificant capability to the ADF, Australia and its strategic part-ners.”

RAAF Base Woomera will include the Woomera airfield, hangars, technical areas and Woomera village.

There will be no access changes to the Woomera village

or the Olympic Dam – Pimba Road for members of the public and private leaseholders within the village.

Nor will there be any change to non-Defence users’ access to the Woomera Prohibited Area.

Commander Aerospace Operational Support Group AIRCDRE Stephen Osborne said a range of advanced testing occurred at Woomera.

“Woomera is the recognised home of military unmanned aerial systems testing in Australia and it is fast becom-

ing the destination of choice for our partners across the full spectrum of test and evalua-tion,” AIRCDRE Osborne said.

“For example, the British Ministry of Defence project Taranis successfully flight tri-alled its advanced unmanned combat air vehicle at Woomera in August last year.”

The Woomera Range Complex will continue to be managed by Air Force in accordance with the require-ments of the Defence Act and Woomera Prohibited Area Rules.

THE Australian Government for-mally acknowledged the excision of an area of the Maralinga Tjarutja lands from Defence’s Woomera Prohibited Area on November 5.

Known as ‘Section 400’, it was the site of atomic testing and associ-ated trials conducted by the British in the 1950s and 1960s in South Australia.

D e f e n c e M i n i s t e r D av i d Johnston said the excision of Section 400 – a total of 1782sq km – will enable the Maralinga Tjarutja people to use the land without being restricted by Defence activities.

“Defence has adjusted its test-ing activities to allow the removal of Section 400 from the Woomera Prohibited Area,” he said.

Senator Johnston said Defence strongly valued the working rela-tionship with Maralinga Tjarutja and continued to test equipment and systems at Woomera to achieve national security objectives.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion said the unrestricted access to this land would improve the Maralinga Tjarutja people’s tourism opportunities.

“The Section 400 area has par-ticular significance to the Maralinga Tjarutja people and the unrestricted access to their land is important for the community, and for future gen-erations,” he said.

“The Maralinga Tjarutja people

New-look range announced for the new yearWhat’s in a range?

The Woomera Test Range includes: Woomera Prohibited Area (WPA), the large land mass weap-

ons range used for the testing of war materiel. Woomera Restricted Airspace, the restricted airspace above

the WPA. Woomera Camp Rapier, the secure garrison support and

specialised training compound within the WPA. Nurrungar Test Area, the small specialised testing area just

outside the WPA. Commonwealth test facilities and infrastructure on the WPA

outside of RAAF Base Woomera.

Land returned to community

have already developed a successful tourism enterprise conducting guid-ed tours of their traditional lands.

“This government recognises that land is the greatest econom-ic asset available to many remote Aboriginal communities. That is why we are committed to working with traditional owners to ensure that land can be used as a founda-tion for economic advancement, not as a barrier.”

The Australian Government spent $100 million rehabilitating the

land between 1993 and 2001 after the recommendation of the Royal Commission into British Nuclear Tests in Australia.

The land was formally hand-ed back to the traditional owners in December 2009 but remained subject to access restrictions until now.

Senator Johnston presented Maralinga Tjarutja with a map showing the formal excision of Section 400 from the Woomera Prohibited Area at the ceremony.

Team gets a new home at WoomeraOFFCDT Alexandra Hendry

The team responsible for safety and security at the Woomera Test Range has a new home.

The Compliance and Monitoring Team Woomera Operations Office was officially opened on October 3.

Woomera Test Range Trials Security Manager SQNLDR Darren Shorter said the former Australian Federal Police headquarters gave the team a secure facility in location from which to plan and manage compliance operations and trials support.

“The facility is now fully equipped with Defence intranet ac-cess and a secure briefing capabil-ity,” SQNLDR Shorter said.

“These capabilities are a signifi-cant leap forward for the Woomera Test Range, enhancing the team’s ability to detect, deter and discour-age non-compliance activities that

may pose a security and safety risk to Defence and non-Defence users.”

A Recognition of Country plaque was unveiled at the entrance to the building, honouring Woomera’s traditional landowners, the Kokatha people.

Kokatha Chairman Andrew Star-

key said the plaque was symbolic of the positive way in which Defence was working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to secure a strong future.

“The Kokatha people are very happy to have been recognised as the traditional landowners in this way,” Mr Starkey said.

SQNLDR Darren Shorter speaks at the opening of the new Operations Office.Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman

Maralinga Tjarutja Senior Elder and Chairperson Keith Peters accompanied by the Maralinga Tjarutja Chairman Sonny Pepper (seated), and Deputy Director Woomera Test Range WGCDR Jason McHeyzer, speaks at the Section 400 excision at Maralinga Airfield in South Australia. Photos: LAC Michael Green

Anangu School Principal Ineke Gilbert (right) and her students, Ryan Stewart and Lyndon Queama, show Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs GPCAPT Lisa Jackson-Pulver a map of the local area.

UFHS14025rj CRICOS Provider Code: 00586B Academic Ranking of World Universities 2014 †Conditions Apply

utas.edu.au/paramedicine I 13UTAS

The University of Tasmania is the first university in Australia to combine intensive care and extended care qualifications into a single degree with our new Master of Advanced Paramedicine.

As leaders in paramedicine we also enable you to upgrade your qualifications to a Bachelor degree with the Bachelor of Paramedic Practice (Conversion) – with a 50% discount on your HECS.†

Advance your practice at any stage of your career with the University of Tasmania.

Applications now open

Advance your career in Paramedicine.


‘KANDAHAR was the busiest single runway military airfield in the world with 400,000 movements a year.

Strange things happen in a place like that.”

So said FLTLT Peter Horrell, who received a Bronze Star from the US Consul-General to Perth, Cynthia Griffin, last month.

FSGT Glenn McCracken was honoured at the same ceremony, receiving a Commendation for Meritorious Service.

FLTLT Horrell served at the rank of squadron leader for a six-month posting to Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan, from September 2013 to March this year.

The citation says he “effec-tively led a multinational team of operations officers, watch keepers, airfield managers, air traffic con-trollers, meteorologists and airfield planners to achieve the complex and varied task of ensuring safe and effective combat operations”.

FLTLT Horrell, a 79SQN fly-ing instructor, is part of the Officer Aircrew Specialist Stream.

He previously served as a squadron leader flight commander at No. 2 Flying Training School during a 17-year RAAF career and reverted to flight lieutenant in his current role.

“I initially went over there as the director of the base operation cen-tre,” FLTLT Horrell said.

“I had to manage the opera-tions of Kandahar Airfield, to get the airfield up and running post-attack, security operations, anti-corruption work, vetting all the approvals for arrivals and manag-

ing the parking and resources and coordination.”

Among the challenges he over-came were:

Initiating post-attack recovery after 12 rockets halted runway operations.

Improving training and proce-dures to cut the response time after rocket attack to enable defenders to engage the enemy in the base defence zone.

Managing more than 120 air-space restrictions with illumina-tion missions, kinetic strikes, shows of force and special oper-ations in the 520sq km ground defence area.

Moving a tethered Persistent Threat Detection System over the airfield – a system he described as “a big blimp on the end of a 3500-foot cable”.

Managing a multinational team to facilitate 350 medivac flights.

Coordinating surface-to-air fire suppression corridors to ensure safe arrival and departure of 130 VIPs and 12,000 US passengers.

Overseeing nine repatriation cer-emonies for the fallen.

Coordinating responses to 230 in-flight and ground emergen-cies.

Conducting security operations and managing the risks of hav-ing a civilian airport operating within the airfield.

More than 50 inspections of aircraft to deter corruption and contraband.

Supporting more than 15,000

transient movements to ensure high priority to combat mis-sions.

“It was a single runway for all those movements, which meant if it was down it was critical,” FLTLT Horrell said.

“It was almost an emergency in itself if the runway went black. You’ve got a constant flow of jets coming back needing fuel after sup-porting the troops, UAVs, transports and civilians.

“A minor issue on the runway such as brakes or a blown tyre could then result in an F-16 not having a runway to land on after [the aircraft has] declared emer-gency fuel.”

Embedded with NATO forces working to the US Commander of Kandahar Airfield, FLTLT Horrell found himself acting as Chief of Airfield Operations as forces were drawn down to 40 per cent manning.

“It was a small team working very hard with a large responsibil-ity, 24/7,” he said.

“We did make a lot of improve-ments – things like the Persistent Threat Detection System. We man-aged to streamline procedures so that we got the airfield up and run-ning.”

The Bronze Star is the fourth-highest individual decoration awarded by the US military, and FLTLT Horrell was pleased his family was present at the ceremony in Perth.

“Most of these awards are pre-sented in-country but I was lucky in that my family got to see it and attend, and I got the chance to thank them publicly,” he said.

FSGT Glenn McCracken was commend-ed for meritorious service in supporting C-17 heavy maintenance in San Antonio, Texas, from May 2010 to December 2013.

FSGT McCracken, an aircraft techni-cian, was employed by the Heavy Air Lift Support Program Office based in Ohio, and commuted to Texas for each aircraft arrival.

The citation said this was a credit to FSGT McCracken, the RAAF and his country.

“He implemented accelerated induc-tion processes, which reduced aircraft heavy maintenance down time by one-third,” the citation reads.

“He increased acceptance procedures efficiency by forging new agreements between the contractor and the defence contract management agency, which allowed the RAAF acceptance crew and agency personnel to work side-by-side during inspections. This arrangement enabled discrepancies to be identified earlier in the acceptance process and intrinsically reduced rework.”

In addition to heavy maintenance, FSGT McCracken at the request of No. 36 Squadron would liaise with USAF for Recovery and Modification Services (RAMS) requests.

“RAMS is the Boeing rapid response team used to recover severely damaged aircraft, rectify faults and incorporate upgrades regardless of where in the world the aircraft is operating,” FSGT McCracken said.

“At times this was tricky as the per-sonnel and equipment would be drawn from differing locations right across the US.”

FSGT McCracken was often the first point of contact when a USAF C-17 operating in the region was unservice-able, liaising through 36SQN to ensure appropriate support.

“We worked alongside UK, Canada and the UN Management Agency – Heavy Lift Wing, where we could collectively drive change back through the USAF, Defence Contract Management Agency and Boeing, enhancing accountability within Boeing while reducing aircraft downtime and associated cost,” FSGT McCracken said.

He said it was special to have his family at the ceremony.

“The whole family were there for the ceremony, which was good. Trying to manage with the kids during the ceremo-ny wasn’t easy, but it was really special,” he said.

Overseas service in multinational environments has earned US awards for two No. 79 Squadron members from RAAF Base Pearce, FLTLT David Cusworth reports.

Two US awards in Perth

US Consul-General to Perth, Cynthia Griffin, presents FLTLT Peter Horrell with the Bronze Star.

Technician’s work in Texas commended

US Consul-General to Perth, Cynthia Griffin, presents FSGT Glenn McCracken with the US Air Force Commendation for Meritorious Service. Photos: LS Bradley Darvill

You don’t have an ordinary life. And when it comes to buying a home, you’re no ordinary purchaser.

ADCU DHOAS home loans provide special features that are tailored to suit your life and commitments. Find out more from a Mobile Banker today.

adcu.com.au | 1300 23 46 27

Image courtesy of the Department of Defence. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply. Visit www.adcu.com.au/dhoas for more details. Australian Defence Credit Union Limited ABN 48 087 649 741 AFSL No. and Australian credit licence number 237 988.

Not like ordinary home loans.

ADCU-DHOAS-Tri-Services-261x190-Advertisement-Jet-09102014-REPRO.indd 1 9/10/2014 4:44 pm


FLTLT Dave Woods

The Air Force and the Airfield Defence Category lost a great man when Air fie ld Defence Guard Supervisor FSGT Richard Long, of hQ No. 95 Wing, suddenly but peacefully passed away at home on November 1.

‘Great man’ is not an expression that is used lightly but is entirely fit-ting when referring to a man who pos-sessed such an innate understanding of the human condition and ability to connect with people on a plane that few are able.

FSGT Long, or ‘Longy’ as he was affectionately known, enlisted in Air Force on March 13, 1986.

More than 400 people, including family, friends and work colleagues, gathered at the Centenary Memorial Gardens, Summer Park in Queensland on November 12 to pay their respects and provide Longy with a farewell that honoured his amazing life.

OC 95WG GPCAPT Peter Davis delivered a eulogy and said he had gained a greater appreciation for the man Longy was and how much he touched the lives of others.

“The people here today are a testament to how much Longy was universally admired and respected,” GPCAPT Davis said.

It is no easy task to encapsulate such a full life and convey the excep-

tional person FSGT Long was in so few words.

his accomplishments are too many to list but are retained, more impor-tantly, by the people who Longy meant so much to.

“Longy was so many things to so many of us: a leader, a mate, an instructor, an airman, an ADG, a supervisor, a professional, a friend, a confidant, and he was superb at them all,” GPCAPT Davis said.

During his career, Longy served in 16 units, which also included opera-tional service in the Middle east in 2005, earning him the Australian Active Service Medal with Iraq and International Coalit ion Against

Terrorism clasps, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.

he was also awarded the Defence Long Service Medal with first and second clasps, the Australian Defence Medal and the Returned from Active Service Badge.

however, his personality and friendly professional demeanour will be the enduring measure of how he is remembered.

“he was wise beyond his years, offering sage counsel and advice to peers and superiors of all ranks. Most notably, he inspired each of us to be the best we can be and saw the best in us,” GPCAPT Davis said.

Among Longy’s attributes were

his unparalleled wit and keen sense of humour that endeared him to all.

To make people laugh is a gift and one Longy mastered with unassum-ing ease, and unleashed with precise timing.

“While he was taken from us too soon, the life he did live was full,” GPCAPT Davis said.

“each interaction we had with Longy left a positive imprint in our memories and we are all better for that and privileged to have known him.”

FSGT Long will be sadly missed. he is survived by wife Kim and

children Carlie, Brent and Travis, who will always be a part of the Air Force family.

Longy fondly remembered Pallbearers slow march as Air Force personnel give a general salute during the funeral service for FSGT Richard Long. Photos: LAC Brenton Kwaterski

Novated Leasing provides significant savings to hundreds of thousands of drivers

Do you want to novate and achieve great savings on ex-fleet vehicles?Or access these savings by novating a new car?

Novated Leasing

[email protected]

1800 743 262 Don’t miss this opportunity. Contact sgfleet today to start the process of getting your new car.


DCAF AVM Leo Davies is challeng-ing Air Force’s workforce of 14,000 to hit a target of 2014 donations to the Australian Red Cross Blood Service before the end of November.

The Defence Blood Challenge, which ends on November 30, pits the Air Force, Army, Navy and Australian Public Service in a contest to see who can donate the most blood.

“Every day we accomplish extraordinary things in our duty to our nation and I ask that we continue to do extraordinary things for mem-bers of the community,” AVM Davies said.

“Every drop of blood that we can donate goes to saving many lives of ordinary Australians.

“The majority of donations go to people undergoing cancer treatment, as well as people who have suffered traumatic accidents such as burns, and those undergoing life-saving surgery.

“I challenge Air Force to reach a target of 2014 donations for this year.”

TO KEEP an eye on how Air Force is tracking visit www.donateblood.com.au/who-can-give/club-red/blood-challenge-results and select ‘Defence Blood Challenge 2014’ then ‘Air Force Group’.

Challenge for more donations

Australian Red Cross Blood Service’s community relations officer, Sally Gavin, said blood, plasma and platelet donations were turned into products that could be used for many purposes.

“We have a family of three young children who need regular transfusions just so they can lead normal, healthy lives,” Ms Gavin said.

“The generous donations made by members of Defence are an incredible boost to many such lives.”

At time of printing, Air Force’s donation numbers were 1039, which equates to 3117 lives saved.

Air Force Blood Challenge ambas-sador WGCDR Joe Medved said he was honoured to be selected in the role this year.

“My own experience is based on my son’s need for monthly blood prod-uct infusions, which he will need for his entire life,” he said.

“This has made me aware of how vital it is to make a donation to save lives, and I encourage anyone who can make a donation do so, not just for this challenge but regularly throughout the year.

“We have a great team of Blood Challenge coordinators at every base

to help members get Air Force’s dona-tion numbers up for a very worthwhile cause.”

The coordinators can assist with any questions that members have on how to donate.

“Family and friends can also take part in the challenge by ‘gifting’ their donation,” WGCDR Medved said.

“All they need to do is register as part of the Air Force group the same way that members do.”

Members can book an appointment online through www.donateblood.com.au/defence or by calling 13 14 95.

See DCAF’s challenge to Air Force at http://video.airforce.gov.au/

BLOOD CHALLENGE

DCAF AVM Leo Davies with Billy Blood Drop after his own donation, inset. Photos: SGT William Guthrie

Excuse our new Ultimate Package, it’s a little competitive.

0.80%OFF

our Standard Variable Home Loan rate

pa

Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply and are available on request. Approval subject to Defence Bank’s lending criteria. Please refer to defencebank.com.au for current rates. ^ To be eligible to receive a $1,000 card your new Defence Bank home loan must be applied for between 03 October 2014 and 30 November 2014 and be funded by 28 February 2015. Minimum loan amount of $275,000. Loan type, loan purpose and other eligibility criteria also apply. Limit of one card during the promotion. For full details refer to www.defencebank.com.au Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 234582.

Get competitiveVisit defencebank.com.au/homeloan

I’m now packing a

$1000EFTPOS Card with

all new Home Loans^


Shannon Kean and FLTLT Lucy Bree

THE first three Orions to be retired from service have provided quite a challenge for the members tasked with their disposals.

Over the past 12 months these three airframes have undergone extensive harvesting of required spares and prep-aration for final destruction.

The work has been done in a col-laboration between No. 92 Wing, Airbus Group Australia Pacific (AGAP), and Maritime Patrol Systems Program Office (MPSPO) in the lead-up to the AP-3C Planned Withdrawal Date of 2019.

This is to make way for future capabilities, including P-8A Poseidon and Triton, which are to be operated at RAAF Base Edinburgh by 92WG personnel.

Each of the three aircraft needed 1600 hours of work to remove spares, hazardous material and significant airframe structures such as the wings and empennage, and final preparation activities.

CPL Dean Halliday, a 92WG aircraft technician trade supervisor embedded with AGAP, was excited to be a part of this project.

“It was an extremely challeng-ing task to remove the empennage and wings from the fuselage,” CPL Halliday said.

“The jobs gave the members of the team a great deal of satisfac-tion as it was outside of our normal

Orions on final journey

work requirements and proved to be immensely interesting.”

The disposal of the first three Orions was approved by CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown with a view to providing the best outcome for Defence in terms of reducing critical item management, reducing future pro-curement of spares and supporting the remaining fleet.

The work was achieved through the

application of a flexible work program, and the careful planning of activities through a combined effort between AGAP and MPSPO.

This flexibility enabled optimal use of Commonwealth hangar and tarmac facilities, as well as the contractor and 92WG workforce.

Although the start of the disposal of the AP-3C fleet marks the end of an era within the RAAF maritime

community, MPSPO has engaged Air Force Heritage to ensure the P3 legacy is retained for future generations with plans for selected aircraft to be pre-served for heritage purposes.

To watch the video of the disposal of the Orion airframes, visit http://video.airforce.gov.au/

The fuselage of Orion A9-663 is loaded on to a truck for transportation to a scrap metal recycling yard; right, parts of the aircraft are broken down into small pieces so they can be put through the shredder for recycling. Photos: SGT Mick Bott


SEVERAL Air Force women were recognised for their contribution to leadership excellence in aviation at the Aerospace Awards in Melbourne.

AIRCDRE Catherine Roberts received the Aviation and Aerospace Award – Distinguished Leadership Award in recognition of her excel-lence as a stand-out leader in her field.

This award aims to promote the qualities of integrity, trust, passion, vision and inspiration.

Air Force members were well represented among the nominees for

several categories of awards at a din-ner organised by Aviation Aerospace Australia on October 17.

A number of categories within the Women in Aviation and Aerospace Awards were also picked up by Air Force members.

GPCAPT Tracey Friend was presented with the Excellence in Aviation Management Award, with WGCDR Ruth Elsley also nominat-ed as a finalist in this category.

“It’s nice to be recognised by your industry peers who are outside your own organisation, for what many of

us consider just doing our job, albeit one we love,” GPCAPT Friend said.

“The awards showcased some extremely talented and vibrant women within the aviation/aerospace sector across the country, and I am honoured to be able to be among that group.”

SQNLDR Sheena Stapleton and SGT Gail McFadzean were final-ists in the category for Outstanding Performance in Engineering and Technology Award.

The Outstanding Strategy for Gender Diversity Award was pre-sented to WGCDR Llani Kennealy

and her Gender Programs team from the Directorate of Organisational Behaviour and Culture in Personnel Branch.

WGCDR Kennealy, who is Deputy Director Air Force Gender Programs, said the finalists and award recipients also attended the Women in Aviation/Aerospace Australia National Summit, which brought together a cross-section of aviation and aero-space professionals to discuss the issues affecting gender diversity in the sector.

“The primary aim of the Women in

Aviation and Aerospace program is to promote the issue of gender diversity and the participation of women within the aviation and aerospace sector in Australia,” WGCDR Kennealy said.

“The program provides a network for women to connect with industry peers, inspire future generations to join the industry and excel in their chosen careers.”

For more information, or to become involved in the Women in Aviation and Aerospace program, email [email protected]

Aerospace award winners

AVM John Quaife marked his retire-ment from BAE Systems by explor-ing the CT4B flight envelope with an hour-long flight with his son, FLTLT Brendan Quaife, at the ADF Basic Flying Training School (BFTS) at Tamworth.

FLTLT Quaife, who is a flying instructor at BFTS, took his father, who retired from the RAAF in 2008, through a typical advanced general fly-ing routine on October 28.

AVM Quaife finished with BAE Systems on November 5 but remains an active member of the Airworthiness Coordination and Policy Agency, serv-

ing as operational member on a num-ber of airworthiness boards.

AVM Quaife completed his basic training on CT4A aircraft in 1980 so the flight allowed him to refresh skills.

“I was really interested to test Bernoulli’s theorem and its application to the lift phenomena,” AVM Quaife said after the flight.

“I was quite relieved to see that lift still works, but perhaps that whole venturi thing needs a bit of a rethink.”

AVM Quaife keeps a commercial pilot’s licence through his interest in a DH82A Tiger Moth and often travels in a PA34 Seneca.

AVM refreshes his skills at Tamworth

Your Package IncludesFinance, Fuel,

Insurance, Servicing, Tyres & Registration

Call us for an obligation free quote NOW

1300 738 601www.fleetnetwork.com.au/salary-packaging

Lease Package Save

Let the team at Fleet Network show you how to save thousands when buying your next new car. It’s all about using your pre-tax salary, and taking advantage of all the additional benefits only

Fleet Network can offer.

It’s worth a call – it’s your salary, after all.

Fleet Network Pty Ltd. To qualify for this offer you must mention this advertisement to Fleet Network prior to the completion of your initial contract. Vehicle must be new and supplied by Fleet Network.Not valid in conjunction with any other current Fleet Network offers. Employees should consult their employer’s salary packaging policy before entering into a contract. *Subject to Employer policy.Vehicle for illustration purposes only.While stocks last.

Mention this advert prior to completing your ontract and get a bonus $500 Gift Card to Bunnings Warehouse

or Toys’R’us when your new vehicle is delivered!


CPL Mark Doran

As the world’s 20 most powerful leaders prepared to meet in Brisbane from November 15-16, they were sup-ported by ADF personnel as Brisbane City went into lock-down.

In the lead-up to the Group of twenty (G20) Leader’s summit, about 2000 airmen and women, soldiers and sailors supported the Queensland Police service and other govern-ment agencies.

these force elements included F/A-18 hornets, Black hawk helicopters, clearance divers, explosive ordnance detection dogs and members of special Operations Command.

Close to 200 additional troops were also on call to sup-port in providing a safe and secure environment for the G20.

Air Force assets used in support of Air services Australia included F/A-18 hornets, the KC-30A Multi Role tanker transport and the e-7A Wedgetail.

In preparation for the summit, Air task Group also deployed a tactical air defence radar system, the AN/tPs-77, to supplement existing civilian and military air traffic control radars which provide coverage of the skies around Brisbane.

Commander G20 Air task Group WGCDR David smith said Air Force assets had been rehearsing to ensure they operated effectively in the Brisbane airspace.

“We are confident in our procedures for the security of the airspace and how the Air task Group integrates with the other government agencies,” WGCDR smith said.

“the Air task Group is able to provide the task Force and the commanders with full awareness of what is happen-ing in the air, while allowing the normal airspace users to operate.”

the scale of Air Force support is similar to the sup-port provided for the security arrangements of the sydney Olympics 2000, Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006, APeC 2007 and ChOGM 2011.

the G20 was held at the Brisbane Convention and exhibition Centre in south Bank.

See next edition for full coverage of our support to the G20.

In support of G20 summit

LAC Brenton Faggotter, left, and LAC Andrew Desmet, of No. 2 Security Forces Squadron, with military working dog Ninja were part of the ADF team supporting the G20 in Brisbane. Photo: CPL David Cotton

To see the video of Air Force getting ready for G20, visit http://video.airforce.gov.au

Workplace Remuneration Arrangement 2014+Pay outcomes for members

Scan the QR code to:

- Find out about current developments - Learn more about the WRA

- Provide feedback on the WRA

http://intranet.defence.gov.au/people/sites/PeopleConnect/http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac/

COMBAT CONTROLCREATE AN IMPACT

4 SQN COMBAT CONTROL TEAMS

2015 EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

CLOSE SOON

[email protected]

HTTP://INTRANET.DEFENCE.GOV.AU

/RAAFWEB/SITES/4SQN


Military Working Dogs get new digs

FSGT Diane Rogers

THE Defence Force School of Signals (DFSS) renamed its Network Communications Wing theatrette in honour of a noteworthy Air Force mem-ber on October 28.

DFSS Air Force staff identified AVM Julie Hammer (retd) as exemplifying women in Defence, specifically Air Force.

During her 28 years in Air Force, AVM Hammer excelled in her career, was a role model for women in non-traditional professions and spoke widely on women’s contribution to the work-place.

She became the first woman to attain two-star rank in the ADF and the first female Commandant of ADFA.

CO DFSS LTCOL Kirk Johnstone said the Hammer Hall theatrette, at Simpson Barracks in Victoria, was an investment in “significant pieces of her-itage to promote single-service identity, leadership, ingenuity and professional-ism to inspire students”.

At the ceremony, AVM Hammer spoke warmly of her career experiences and interactions with Defence commu-nication and information technology systems, electronic warfare and elec-tronics.

She said the teaching taking place in the theatrette was of “critical importance to Defence’s whole core capability”.

“It really is such a great honour to have this named in my memory,” she said.

AVM Andrew Dowse represented CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown at the ceremony.

“It was a wonderful occasion to rec-ognise the achievements of one of the most respected officers produced in Air Force, who helped shape our Defence Force, and mentored and influenced all the people she worked with,” AVM Dowse said.

A portrait and plaque sponsored by Defence contractor Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Pty Ltd were unveiled at the ceremony.

Young local artist Rebecca Kettle painted the portrait.

DFSS headquarters is a triservice organisation dedicated to the delivery of electronic warfare and communication and information systems training for the ADF.

About 26 permanent Air Force per-sonnel are among the mainly Army staff.

LTCOL Johnstone said he was keen to ensure the unit represented its triserv-ice nature and the renaming of the hall was one of several initiatives to achieve this.

He also recently approved the acqui-sition and mounting of a Caribou pro-peller sourced by Air Force staff during the decommissioning process.

(L-R) Managing Director Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Pty Ltd Tony Grasso, CO DFSS LTCOL Kirk Johnstone, AVM Julie Hammer (retd) and AVM Andrew Dowse with a portrait of AVM Hammer. Photo: CPL Murray Metcalf

In honour of service

Frenzy in front of the new Military Working Dog day yards at RAAF Base Amberley. Photo: CPL Jessica de Rouw

HAPPIER days have arrived at RAAF Base Amberley for the 23 Military Working Dogs (MWDs) of No. 2 Security Forces Squadron.

SNCO of the MWD Operations Cell SGT Russel Durre said the dogs had reason to be happy.

“Our dogs now have eight new running yards where they can have some rest and recupera-tion when they’re not working,” he said.

The new 4m x 6m yards are

lined with artificial grass, are separated by walls to provide pri-vacy away from the prying eyes of other dogs and have aluminium shade cover at the ends to pro-vide shelter from environmental elements.

MWDs and their handlers form an important element of the Security Forces responsible for providing security to RAAF personnel and assets on domestic airbases.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WHEN YOU TRANSITION OUT.

experience family value

At Defence Health, we’re all about rolling up our sleeves to help wherever life takes you. If you move to the active Reserves we’ve got exclusive ADF packages.If you go straight to civilian life, we’ll give you 10% o� our civilian range for the fi rst 12 months. Great value health insurance that looks after you and your family. Call 1800 335 425 or visit defencehealth.com.au


Milestone markedSGT Dave Morley

A FLIGHT engineer from No. 10 Squadron has notched up a memo-rable milestone – 10,000 hours of flight time.

WOFF Kevin Schibrowski reached his 10,000th hour on an Operation Resolute surveillance mission in September.

“My crew wasn’t really aware that this was going to occur and I had not advertised it because I considered it to be more a personal milestone,” he said.

“While I felt somewhat euphor-ic, it really was business as usual and we were focused on the task at hand.”

WOFF Schibrowski said he had an interest in aviation as a boy when he would sit and watch air-craft all day.

“I joined the Air Training Corps, now Air Force Cadets, and had the opportunity to participate in activi-ties like gliding and flying on ser-vice aircraft, while attending cadet camps, which further cemented the idea that military aviation was for me,” he said.

“Unfortunately my scholastic achievements were not of sufficient standard to warrant enlisting as a pilot and so I joined as a trainee electrical fitter.

“In my opinion Defence is one of the most dynamic employment fields to be in.

“For most musterings there are opportunities to deploy, to change

employment streams, even in a member’s day-to-day activities there are opportunities for diver-sity.”

WOFF Kevin Schibrowski, who joined the Air Force in 1978, has 2000 hours flying time in Caribous and the remainder in Orions.

He said his first deployment to the Sinai with Multinational Force and Observers from March to December 1984, equipped with Iroquois helicopters, was a high-light of his career.

“This was the first of many deployments, but I have the best memories of my time in the Sinai,” WOFF Schibrowski said.

“Not only with respect to the operational roles and missions that were carried out, but also from the perspective of being a young man with the opportunity to travel exten-sively through Israel, Egypt and Europe.”

Crew 3 co-pilot FLGOFF Thomas Fleming said WOFF Schibrowski was a competent, friendly and knowledgeable engi-neer.

“For the time that I have been on the crew with him, he has always strived to impart his technical knowledge to all crew members and has taken to developing both pilot and co-pilot AP-3C systems and engineering knowledge,” he said.

“WOFF Schibrowski is a crucial and respected member of the crew and of 10SQN.”

Flight engineer WOFF Kevin Schibrowski conducts preflight checks in an AP-3C Orion. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd

SGT Dave Morley

AMONG the sea of white uniforms at the Australian War Memorial’s Battle of Leyte Gulf commemoration was a lone Air Force member.

SGT Eleanor Mongan was there on October 21 to remember her great-uncle, AB Geoffrey Reeve.

AB Reeve, aged 19, was a gunner in one of heavy cruiser HMAS Australia’s 8-inch turrets during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944.

He was killed in action aboard Australia at Lingayen Gulf on January 5, 1945.

SGT Mongan said it was a privilege to be involved in the commemoration and to know her family had a connection back to such a famous battle.

“My grandmother, who was his sister, was always involved in the HMAS Australia and the heavy cruisers associations and we would hear about my great-uncle from her,” she said.

SGT Mongan’s father, Kevin Mongan, was also a leading radio operator on the aircraft car-rier HMAS Melbourne in the 1960s.

“All this was an influence on me joining the ADF,” she said.

Remembering a family connection

SGT Eleanor Mongan and her father, Kevin Mongan, at the commemoration. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

WE VALUE YOUR OPINION

While i’m cognisant our workforce feel somewhat ‘sur-veyed out’ can i request you consider taking 10 minutes to complete the readership survey for Air Force News.

i, like many of you, look towards our Air Force News to provide a link to what’s happening across our Air Force. it provides a lens to see what our people and doing – either on deployments, operations or at home – and also provides important information of the various policy changes that impact us and our families.

Personally, i particularly like the human interest stories and am always amazed at how talented and diverse our workforce is. This is our newspaper and here is your op-portunity to have a say in what you would like to see in it.

– WOFF Mark PentreathWOFF – AF

Readership Survey

1) Do you consent to participate in this survey? (Note, your survey responses can not be used without your consent)

❏ Yes ❏ No

2) Are you a member/employee of?

❏ Royal Australian Navy (go to question 4) ❏ Australian Regular Army (go to question 4) ❏ Royal Australian Air Force (go to question 4) ❏ Royal Australian Naval Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ Army Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ Air Force Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ ADF Cadets (go to question 5) ❏ Defence Australian Public Service (go to question 3) ❏ industry/Contractor (go to question 3) ❏ None of the above (go to question 3)

3) if you are not an ADF member, are you a former member of? (select all that apply)

❏ Royal Australian Navy (go to question 5) ❏ Australian Regular Army (go to question 5) ❏ Royal Australian Air Force (go to question 5) ❏ Royal Australian Naval Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ Army Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ Air Force Reserve (go to question 5) ❏ None of the above (go to question 5)

4) What is your substantive rank group? (for specialist ranks such as Chaplain, please note your current relative rank)

❏ Recruit to lS/CPl/BDR ❏ PO/SGT/SSGT to WO-N/RSM-A/WOFF-AF ❏ MiDN/OCDT/SCDT/OFFCDT to lCDR/MAJ/SQNlDR ❏ CMDR/lTCOl/WGCDR or higher

5) What was your age at your last birthday?

❏ 20 or less ❏ 21-30 ❏ 31-40 ❏ 41-50 ❏ 51-60 ❏ 61 or over

6) Where are you currently located?

❏ Australian Capital Territory ❏ New South Wales ❏ Northern Territory ❏ Queensland ❏ South Australia ❏ Tasmania ❏ Victoria ❏ Western Australia ❏ Overseas

7) how often would you say you read each Service newspaper?

Newspaper every edition or most editions (fortnightly or almost fortnightly)

Around half of all editions (monthly)

Occasionally(less than monthly to five editions)

Rarely(twice ayear or less)

Never

ARMY NeWS

NAVYNeWS

AiR FORCeNeWS

8) What content is of most interest to you (select all that apply)?

❏ Operations and deployments ❏ Pay and conditions ❏ Senior leadership messages ❏ equipment and kit ❏ Awards and recognition ❏ Training ❏ Special lift-outs ❏ Photos ❏ Sport ❏ history ❏ health ❏ Finance ❏ Court Martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial results ❏ Advertising ❏ Technology ❏ Centre-page features ❏ lifestyle ❏ Other

9) how satisfied are you with the following aspects of the Service newspapers?

Very Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very Satisfied

Relevance of information

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Timeliness of information

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Quality of information

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Quality of writing ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Quality of photographs

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Sufficient information provided in articles

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Trustworthiness ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Presentation ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Relevance of advertisements

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Quantity of advertisements

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

10) Do you read the Service newspapers on: (select all that apply)

❏ Printed hard copy ❏ DRN ❏ Personal desktop computer/laptop ❏ Tablet ❏ Mobile

11) if you read the printed hard copy, do you take it home for other members of your household to read?

❏ Yes ❏ No

12) if you read the printed hard copy, where do you obtain it? (select all that apply)

❏ Defence establishment ❏ Via a paid subscription ❏ Overseas deployment unit ❏ Other

13) how would you like to access the Service newspapers in future? (select all that apply)

❏ hard copy newspaper ❏ Website ❏ Tablet application ❏ Mobile application

14) Would you prefer a single tri-service publication/news service?

❏ Yes ❏ No

2014 Service Newspapers’ Readership Survey

15) Do you have any suggestions for how the Service newspapers could be improved?

Thank you for your feedback

tear heretear here

RCEAIR F

HAVE A SAY IN THE FUTURE OF YOUR NEWSPAPERhttp://defencesurveys.com.au/anon/335.aspx

This link will only be available until December 12, 2014.

if completing the paper survey, please post your responses by December 8, 2014, to the following address using the Defence internal mail system, where possible.

Directorate of Strategic People ResearchBP33-4-15PO Box 7927Canberra BC ACT 2610

Alternatively, you can post your responses using Australia Post by adding ‘Reply Paid 7927’ at

the top of the address for free postage.

if you have any questions or complaints relating to this research, you can contact DSPR on (02) 6127 2156 or [email protected]

HOW TO PARTICIPATEThis survey can be completed online using the following link:

http://defencesurveys.com.au/anon/335.aspx

The Service Newspapers’ Readership Survey seeks information from anyone who has ever read an ADF Service newspaper – Army News, Navy News and Air Force News. The survey collects information on who is reading the Service newspapers, what is of most interest to them, how the papers could be improved and how readers would like to access the newspapers in future. This will allow the editors to better align with readers’ preferences in content and accessibility. This survey is voluntary and you do not have to complete it, however we encourage your feedback for the improvement

of the Service newspapers. if you do choose to participate, with the exception of the Consent question, you will be free to skip past any question you do not wish to answer. The survey is being run by the Directorate of Strategic People Research (DSPR) on behalf of the Directorate of Defence Newspapers and Multimedia. DSPR complies with the information Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) as well as a strict code of ethics. DSPR only reports aggregated data that can not be linked to an individual. The data collected will be stored securely in the DSPR data library and will only be used for related research purposes.

See the lateSt in gunS, opticS, hunting and outdoor gear.



History RCEAIR F November 20, 201416

NOVATE YOUR CAR WITH SELECTUS AND BE IN THE DRAW TO

© Selectus Employee Benefits Pty Ltd 2014 | Authorised Representative of Selectus Financial Services Pty Ltd, AFSL/ACL No. 337020* Selectus WIN A CAR Terms: Please visit www.selectus.com.au/winacarconditions for full terms and conditions.

When you obtain a SelectusVehicle Package through theSelectus procurement service,during the promotional periodfrom 1 October until 31 December2014, you will go into the draw towin, the choice of one of three carsshown every month untilDecember 2014.

BE REWARDED FOR YOUR SERVICE

SCAN FOR DIRECTLINK TO SELECTUS

Special offer for ADF Personnel courtesy of

fr2014, you will go into the draw towin, the choice of one of three carsshown every month untilDecember 2014.

HistoryRCEAIR F November 20, 2014 17

THE author of a book that will tell of the deeds of the airmen of No. 59 Advanced Operational Refuelling Airbase on Milingimbi Island during World War II is seeking input from new sources.

The book, by Bob Baker, is called Milingimbi: the Mission, Japanese Attacks and Intervention.

Milingimbi lies off the coast of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, about 440km east of Darwin.

In May 1943, No. 59 Advanced Operational Refuelling Airbase repelled three Japanese attacks, inflict-ing heavy casualties on the enemy.

Mr Baker has been a resi-dent of the island since 1968, and was motivated by war remnants into gathering stories from veterans in their 90s and local Aboriginal people, and researching mission and other public records.

One of the notable figures in the book is the Aboriginal headman at that time, Harry Makarrwala, who assisted the three armed services on the island and in the sea.

If you can help with information, contact Bob Baker at [email protected]

Book will delve into WWII links

EvEN before the last Mirages entered service, the Air Force was looking ahead to the next generation of fighter aircraft.

By November 1978, the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 was one of four options being considered for the Air Force’s next fighter.

The other contenders were the General Dynamics F-16, AMD’s Mirage 2000 and the land-based McDonnell Douglas F-18L.

Developed as a multi-role aircraft, the F/A-18’s all-weather air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, combined with state-of-the-art navigation and weapons training systems, gave it unparalleled flexibility.

When it was announced on October 19, 1981, the F/A-18 was the choice

for the RAAF’s new fighter, few people were surprised.

As an effective replacement for the Mirage, and with a proven track record and ability to meet changing demands, the F/A-18 Hornet was a quantum leap in capability and performance over its predecessor.

On November 16, 1984, the first Australian-assembled F/A-18B Hornet went on public display at Avalon.

This was a major achievement under the Next Tactical Fighter program, introducing to Australian industry new technologies and capabilities which not only manufactured but also supported the new aircraft.

The ability to conduct within Australia the final assembly and tests

of the F/A-18, the manufacture of a range of airframe sub-assemblies, engine components and equipment for co-production and export, enhanced industry’s capability to support the ADF and provided a degree of self-reliance.

On May 16, 1985, Air Force’s first two operating F/A-18 Hornets embarked on what is still the longest flight ever made by the F/A-18 – a non-stop delivery flight of the two jets, which began at Lemoore Naval Air Station in California and was completed at RAAF Base Williamtown.

Assigned to Nos. 3, 77 and 75 Squadrons, the F/A-18 Hornets have provided combat air power to Australian and coalition forces through

NICKNAMED Tiny because he was such a big man, SGT A.C. Cameron had WGCDR Peter Jeffrey to thank for his amazing rescue in World War II.

WGCDR Jeffrey, the CO at No. 3 Squadron, which was then part of the Desert Air Force in North Africa, was later awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his courageous deed.

It happened on November 30, 1941, when No. 2 Wing of the Desert Air Force, including 3SQN, were conducting a morning sweep in support of Operation Crusader,

and were intercepted by about 50 enemy. During the brisk running fight which resulted, SGT Cameron was shot down by a Messerschmitt Bf.109 and crash-landed.

Escaping his machine before it was set on fire by another 109, SGT Cameron attracted the attention of two Tomahawks.

WGCDR Jeffrey landed, and, by discarding his parachute, managed to cram Cameron into the single-seat cockpit.

He took off again and returned them both safely to the squadron’s landing ground.

Above, there wasn’t much room in a P40 Tomahawk cockpit.

Right, SGT A.C. Cameron talks to his rescuer, WGCDR Peter Jeffrey. Photos: Air Force History Unit

Rescue goes from one tight squeeze to another

Hornets come out stinging

offensive counter-air and defensive counter air-operations.

The aircraft also provided the nucleus of No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit, which has converted RAAF pilots to the aircraft since mid-1985.

One of the main attributes of the classic Hornet has been its ability to play a key role in Australia’s

contribution to coalition efforts in the war in Iraq.

During Operation Slipper, F/A-18 aircraft and personnel from 77SQN were deployed to Diego Garcia to provide combat air patrol coverage for coalition assets based there.

In 2003, a detachment of F/A-18A Hornets was forward-deployed to the

Middle East during Operation Bastille, to support the coalition build-up in the area and to familiarise themselves with the region.

When combat operations started under Operation Falconer, RAAF Hornets immediately undertook defensive counter-air protection of high-value aircraft. This was also the

first time RAAF fighters had seen combat since the Korean War.

Continuing the legacy of the F/A-18 Hornet, the development of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet incorporates many enhancements into a renewed design, and ensures the Hornet name will continue in service for many years to come.

Thirty years ago the first Australian-assembled F/A-18B Hornet went on public display, Senior Historical Officer at the Office of Air Force History Roz Turner reports.

A formation of F/A-18s from 3SQN, 75SQN, 77SQN and 2OCU fly from RAAF Base Tindal on Aces North in 2004. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

One call does it all.

One call and we’ll find, insure and salary package your ideal car. It’s that easy.

DISCLAIMER: For full terms and conditions please visit our website.

Call 1300 116 846 | www.airforceleasing.com.au

2013

State

Discover Fernvale

honeywoodfernvale.com.au 07 5427 0511

1462 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale

* Price correct at time of printing FE

R52

4

600m2 homesites

from$139000*

House & Land from $295000*

Discover a New Lifestyle

FeatureRCEAIR F November 20, 2014 19

WGCDR Chris Pozzi is getting used to turning heads when he rides his World War II dispatch

motorbike to work in Canberra.The motorbike, a 1942

Birmingham Small Arms (BSA) War Department M20 500cc single-pot Army dispatch rider’s machine, is in pristine condition.

“It attracts a lot of admiring looks and thumbs up in traffic, especially from other riders,” he says.

WGCDR Pozzi is Deputy Director Aerospace Interoperability at Air Force Headquarters.

Although he bought the bike in 2002, he says he hadn’t ridden it in 10 years.

That changed with the intro-duction of paid parking at Russell Offices on October 1, when many Defence members starting riding motorcycles to work to avoid the fees.

WGCDR Pozzi bought the bike for $500 at the Hawkesbury Swap Meet.

“I had been interested in World War II bikes for a long time and thought it better to buy one when I saw it than to wait for a perfect example,” he says.

“There were about 123,000 of them made by the BSA factory and they were in use by Australian forces

in the Middle East, UK and Pacific theatre.”

WGCDR Pozzi says he does not know much about the history of his bike.

“It’s highly likely that it served in the Pacific theatre given its age and the likelihood that bikes in the Middle East were probably left behind or transferred to other Allied units who remained,” he says.

“Most likely it was an Army bike as the number of dispatch riders in the Air Force was limited. We did have them but the Army employed far greater numbers of dispatch rid-ers.”

He intends to configure the bike along the lines of an Australian War Memorial photograph of a bike of No. 8 Airfield Construction Squadron (ACS) during the Tarakan campaign in 1945.

“1ACS and 8ACS did some out-standing work in restoring an airfield to operational order while under fire from Japanese forces,” he says.

“I am an airfield engineer and our airfield engineering capability is directly descended from the ACS of World War II.

“So I think it entirely appropriate that a modern-day airfield engineer has a bike that reflects my own and my category’s history.”

While the bike is slow away from

Chances are this dispatch motorbike was used in the Pacific theatre. Now it’s part of the Canberra traffic flow, SGT Dave Morley reports.

Special delivery

Right, WGCDR Chris Pozzi on his 1942 dispatch motorbike.

Above, the WWII No. 8 Airfield Construction Squadron

motorbike he plans to base his restoration on. Photos: LAC Michael

Green and Australian War Memorial

the lights, WGCDR Pozzi said other drivers on the road hadn’t been too concerned.

“Mostly they are interested or mildly amused at seeing a vintage bike on the road in traffic,” he says.

“It can hold 90km/h relatively easily, but I do lose speed going up hills on the way home in the after-noon.

“As it has drum brakes, I’m glad that so far I haven’t had to perform any emergency braking.”

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

When completing your AFR you will be requested to enter a preferred uplift date. You need to understand that under the Whole of Relocation Cost (WORC) methodology adopted by Defence, your move may occur within the week of that nominated date. Toll determines the best value for money uplift day within the week of your preferred date and confirms the date with you.

It is necessary to answer all relevant questions in your AFR, and to provide essential documents where requested to do so. You can save the information you have entered online at any time by clicking save at the bottom of each page. If you don’t yet have a preferred uplift date or the required documentation, save your partially completed AFR and submit it when you do have this information.

If you have operational or extenuating personal circumstances that require you to move on a particular date, you will need unit approval prior to submitting your AFR online. The form is available at www.tolltransitions.com/defence under the WORC subheading or contact Toll Transitions on 1800 819 167.

Once your AFR is submitted you will be assigned a Toll Transitions Case Manager who will be in contact with you to discuss your relocation and commence booking the specific services required.

Remember • Determine a preferred uplift date you can commit to

• Your move may take place within the week of your preferred date

• If you must move on a particular date you need unit sign-off prior to submitting your AFR

• Complete your AFR, attaching required documentation, as soon as possible

• The earlier you submit your AFR to Toll the more likely you are to move on your preferred date

• You will be assigned a Toll Transitions Case Manager once your AFR has been submitted

• Difficulty completing your AFR? Contact Toll’s Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167

For more information Freecall: 1800 819 167 www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence

Have you received a posting order but are yet to submit your AFR?

20 November 20, 2014RCEAIR FPersonnel

You can use the PSS Home Portal to: View payslips and payment summaries Update personal particulars Check leave balances Apply for leave Amend deductions Submit Reserve attendance and allowance claims

AIR Force members can apply for leave and view pay slips online during Christmas stand-down thanks to PMKeyS Self Service (PSS) Home Portal.

The portal provides Defence members and employees with secure internet access to PSS without logging into the Defence Restricted Network or using the Defence Remote Electronic Access Mobility Service.

Access to the PSS Home Portal is via a secure gateway – the Defence Online Services Domain (DOSD) – between PSS and the internet that allows secure informa-tion exchange.

Members must have a mobile phone num-ber and personal email address recorded in PMKeyS to access the Home Portal through DOSD. Once active, personal information can be accessed via PC, laptop and most tablets and mobile devices.

The portal can be accessed until 10 o’clock most nights to update personal details, check leave balances, edit discretion-ary deductions and for reservists to submit attendance and allowance claims.

To access PSS Home Portal, contact your orderly room to ensure your PMKeyS record has a correctly formatted current mobile number and personal email account.

When this data is correct you can log on through http://osd.defence.gov.au

The FAQ on the DOSD site will guide you through initial setup of your account and then ongoing access.

More information and help desk support is available from the Defence Service Centre (1800 DEFENCE, [email protected]), the PMKeyS intranet site or scan the QR Code below.

SGT Dave Morley

TASMANIAN members had their service to their coun-try recognised when they were presented with Department of Veterans’ Affairs Certificates of Appreciation.

The certificates were pre-sented to 12 Air Force and two Navy members in Hobart on October 16.

CO No. 29 Squadron WGCDR Deborah Phillips seized the opportunity to have the cer-tificates presented at Anglesea Barracks because she thought it would be a “fantastic opportunity

to acknowledge those personnel at 29SQN who had previously deployed”.

She said the DVA initiative was important because it not only recognised those presently serv-ing their country but those who had done so since World War II.

One of the recipients was SNCO Logistics Support SGT Ron Taylor, who received his certificate for contributing to Australia’s effort on peace keep-ing operations.

He said the presentation gave him a sense of honour and appre-ciation of what he had achieved.

“I was proud to serve my

country and receiving the certifi-cate in the presence of family and friends only made the moment all the more special,” he said.

The presentation ceremony was attended by members of 29SQN, NHQ-Tas, Anglesea Barracks and the recipients’ fam-ily and friends.

Peter Tucker, chief of staff for Federal Member for Denison Andrew Wilkie, presented the certificates.

For further information about the certificates, visit www.dva.gov.au/commems_oawg/commemorations/honours_medals_awards

Personnel from No. 29 Squadron with their certificates which were presented to them by Peter Tucker, third from left.

Tasmanian personnel recognised

Self-service from home

WHAT YOU CAN DO

OCTOBER TRIAL RESULTSNote: All Court Martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial

results are subject to command-review and appeal. The results indicated are of trials across the ADF.

NCODefence Force MagistrateTwo counts of prejudicial conduct – DFDA s 60(1)The member was accused of interfering with the conduct of a disciplinary investigation. The member pleaded not guilty to the charges but was found guilty of the charges. The member was sentenced to reduction in rank.

Other rankRestricted Court MartialOne count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm – DFDA s 61(3) and Crimes Act (ACT) s 24(1)The member was accused of striking another member in the face. The member pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge. The member was sentenced to 21 days’ detention (partially suspended) and fined $1500 (paid by instalments).

www.vvcs.gov.auVeterans and Veterans FamiliesCounselling Service

Australian Government

21November 20, 2014RCEAIR F Personnel

NameSQNLDR Wayne WillisSQNLDR Kenneth ThomasFLTLT Bruce PrestonGPCAPT Tracey FriendSGT Michael FiedlerWOFF Quentin PaskeWGCDR Hans LeylandFSGT John MorrisSQNLDR Jamie Stirling SGT Robert McLeodWOFF Simon NortonSGT Paul VerrallFSGT Robin PriceSGT Shane RiggsSGT Darren TimmingsFSGT Stephen Clark

Must/SpecELECTRACOACOABMSUPARMTECHLEGALARMTECH ACO CISCONAVTECHASTECHATECHATECHAVTECHAVTECH

Last day Nov 19Nov 30July 28Nov 24Oct 12Oct 20Nov 18Oct 31Nov 24 Nov 9Nov 2Oct 6Nov 30Nov 16Nov 2Oct 5

Years40373028282826262625252524222120

Departure LoungeWho’s leaving after 20+ years’ service

Leanne Blackmore

PERSONNEL are reminded to cease non-BSB discretionary allot-ments and make new arrangements before the Christmas stand-down period.

The implementation of the first phase of Defence One in 2015 will involve the removal of non-BSB discretionary allotments (also known as voluntary allotments) from PMKeyS.

As a result, ADF members were advised in July 2014 to cease all non-BSB discretionary allotments and to make new arrangements before the deadline of January 29, 2015.

Non-BSB allotments are volun-tary payments made via the payroll system to institutions such as char-ities, clubs, insurance companies and health funds.

These do not include compulso-ry payments such as child support contributions, living-in accommo-dation charges, judgement orders, or other net pay distributions to bank accounts with BSB numbers.

While flexible remuneration salary sacrifice deductions might be considered ‘discretionary’ they will continue to be processed automatically through the Defence payroll system.

Although statistics show a decline in the number of members with allotments, with only two months to ago until the deadline, thousands of members are yet to

cease non-BSB discretionary allot-ments.

The Assistant Secretary of Personnel Systems Modernisation, Brenton Searle, said with the post-ing cycle about to commence and the long break over Christmas, it was better to make the change now.

“The last thing we would want is for members to come back from leave, or get caught up with march-ing into a new post and then find out that payments are not going to their chosen charities or health fund,” he said.

“Members need to make arrangements before the dead-line of January 29, because from payday February 12 all remain-ing discretionary allotments will be ceased as the functionality is removed from PMKeyS Self Service.”

To cease deductions, members should log onto PMKeyS Self Service or complete an AD577 webform, available on the Defence intranet.

Members wishing to continue to pay their deductions can do this via BPAY or direct debit through personal internet banking.

For assistance with setting up deductions, members are encour-aged to contact their financial insti-tution or receiving organisation.

For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions tab at http://ciogintranet.defence.gov.au/organisation/HRDD/PSMB/DefenceOne

Time’s running out

Be sure to cease any non-BSB discretionary allotments before the deadline of January 29. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

“Skilled, knowledgeable, honest, friendly...”Free property investor training - get the knowledge to succeed

What’s Included:

Property Investment Tip:

Learn how one investor made 260K in one year on top of his salary while still serving full time in the ADFADF housing entitlements Investor psychology - How the most successful investors thinkHistorical price data and future price expectationsWhat to buy, when to buy, where to buyThe latest strategies to build a portfolio quickly and safelyThe latest strategies for best cash flowHow to manage risk

To Reserve a Seat:

[email protected]

1300 372 677

http://propertyinvestmentmentor.com.au/free-training/property-investment-adf-members/

Limited seats available

Getting wealthy isn’t about paying off your mortgages. Pay interest only while

you are building your portfolio and use the extra money to get more assets. When property values go up, you will make more money. Debt is not always bad. Good debt is debt used to buy an asset that goes up in value (houses).

Bad debt is debt that is used to buy an asset that goes down in value (cars and

boats).

What People Are Saying: Dates: “I found the training to be really

informative and covered all the relevant topics in property investment. It was

aimed at the right level so that everyone was able to understand, no matter what

their financial knowledge.” - Megan, Wagga Wagga

“These gentlemen are well skilled and knowledgeable on Australian Property

Market. Their presentation is honest and friendly” - Jacob, Canberra

“I liked how the day was structured and broken up in bite sized learning. It was

great to go through basic fundamentals of investment properties and how it comes

together.” - Chantel, Perth

NewcastleThu. 27th November, 6pm-9pm

SydneySat. 29th November, 9am-4pm

“I found it really interesting and learnt a lot about investing in properties. I really

enjoyed the training. I also enjoyed listening to Daimien and Stephen.” -

Joshua, Perth

AdelaideSun. 30th November, 9am-4pm

Wed. 14th January, 9am-4pmCrowne Plaza Newcastle Hotel

Tues. 13th January, 9am-4pmSydney Boulevard Hotel

Mon. 12th January, 9am-4pmHilton AdelaideBrisbaneSun. 5th January, 9am-4pmEatons Hill Hotel

Australian Veteran Owned

Business

AlburyWed. 8th January, 9am-4pmCommercial Club

MelbourneFri. 10th January, 9am-4pmAdina Hotel Queen StPerthFri. 10th January, 9am-4pmTravelodgeDarwinMon. 12th January, 9am-4pmCrowne PlazaTownsvilleThur. 15th January, 9am-4pmRydges Hotel

CanberraMon. 6th January, 9am-4pmCrowne PlazaIpswich

Wagga WaggaTues. 7th January, 9am-4pmInternational HotelToowoombaTues. 7th January, 9am-4pmBurke & Wills Hotel

Mon. 6th January, 9am-4pmIpswich Golf Course

22 November 20, 2014RCEAIR FAir Force Improvement

A QUESTION I’ve asked myself many times over the past two years is: “Why didn’t I apply for this job sooner?”

I had considered applying for a position within Air Force Improvement years ago, but I made the mistake of assuming the position required project management experi-ence.

An encounter with an AFI team during an improvement activity at my unit renewed my enthusiasm and I applied soon after.

I realise now that my original concerns were unfounded and there is no such thing as a ‘typi-cal’ consultant.

Each team member brings a unique set of skills and experience with them. We receive formal training at the start and there is an excellent team to mentor you through your first projects.

There are also no typical days for a consult-ant.

Air Force is undergoing huge changes, both professionally and culturally, so there are oppor-tunities for improvement in every area and every process we do.

In the past two years I have been involved in everything from improving a warehouse layout to sitting in a room of wing commanders and group captains discussing how to implement ini-tiatives to shape the future technical workforce.

As part of the AFI team, I have gained man-agement expertise that few other positions could

provide, including strategic planning, change management and facilitation skills.

The satisfaction that comes from helping people turn an inadequate or poor process into one that meets their needs is enormous.

Streamlining the logistics supply processes across Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group and Air Combat Group, reducing the delays in producing aircrew publications in No. 81 Wing and improving fuel delivery to aircraft are just some of the projects our team have been involved in recently.

The sphere of influence an AFI consultant has is also remarkable.

We have presented the success of reducing maintenance-induced damage at the Senior Maintenance Manager conference and have facilitated business planning for OC’s confer-ences.

The past two years have opened my eyes to the wider Air Force like few other jobs could.

I now have an appreciation of how different Defence departments interact and depend on each other, as well as how one inefficient part of Air Force can significantly impact other areas that depend on it to achieve their own goals.

I absolutely recommend that anyone inter-ested in becoming a consultant seek out your local AFI team.

For more information on the AFI team, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/sites/AFI

The satisfaction that comes from helping people turn an inadequate or poor process into one that meets their needs is enormous, says AFI consultant SGT Andrew Miller.

Eye-opening job

SGT Andrew Miller, of the Williamtown AFI team, loves the scope of his work.

A health fund that’s differentUnlimited general dental + Up to $2,000 major dental + Full ambulance cover

Navy + Army + Air Force10% discount for serving families and active reservists. Conditions apply.

navyhealth.com.au 1300 306 289

23November 20, 2014RCEAIR F New Horizon

WOFF Vicki Chapman

PERSONNEL at RAAF Base Richmond attended a Women’s Integrated Networking Group (WINGs) session to hear Human Services Minister Marise Payne give a “non-political view of women in politics”.

Senator Payne talked about her career and how she dealt with being in the minority.

The two-hour session was held on October 15 over lunch to minimise the impact on units.

WINGs coordinator SQNLDR Del Gaudry said some of the key takeaways from the session included find-ing strength in your networks, asking questions, self-belief and reinforcing your views.

“We also covered topics of having children, childcare, male change agents, self-confidence and helping other women,” SQNLDR Gaudry said.

WINGs was initiated to provide Air Force women with broader mentoring and net-working opportunities.

Guest speakers from within

Defence and external organi-sations are invited to discuss issues affecting women and their careers, with a dedicated theme for each session.

Deputy Director Air Force Gender Programs WGCDR Llani Kennealy said the WINGs program was an important step toward empowering women within Air Force.

“It enables them to build the support and mentoring networks required to sustain a long-term career with Air Force,” she said.

“It also provides us with valuable feedback from the workforce to test and evaluate initiatives and workforce issues, with a direct flow to senior Air Force leadership.”

Throughout the year, WINGs coordinators schedule sessions where men who are interested in understanding gender issues in the workplace are welcome to participate.

For further information about WINGs in your local area, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/sites/DWD/

Air Force and APS women take time to pose with Senator Marise Payne (centre third row) at the Women’s Integrated Network Group’s session. Photo: CPL Veronica McKenna

Senator shares insights

LEARN HOW TO:

• Pay off your home loan in half the time!• Save thousands in bank interest• Build wealth and plan for earlier retirement• Plan better for your children’s future• Take more control of your financial future

If your goals involve securing your family’s financial future and reducing your taxable income - we are here for you.

2nd-generation family company providing services to all Australians at home and abroad with a proud history of service and tradition.

“With over 40 years experience we are your wealth management experts”

We are offering a FREE consultation toall Australian Defence Force Employees

CALL TODAY 1800 671 100

GET YOUR OWN INVESTMENTPROPERTY

ORBRAND NEW

FAMILYHOME

24 November 20, 2014RCEAIR FFinance

IF YOU decide you need a credit card, it is important to choose one that matches the way you want to pay off the debt. You should also make sure you

shop around to compare interest rates, features and fees.

Credit cards have different features to suit different types of spenders.

Interest-free periodsIf you always pay off your

credit card in full each month, look for one that offers interest-free days.

This means you pay no interest for a certain number of days after making a purchase.

These cards may charge higher interest rates and annual fees – but if you pay off your debt within the interest-free period, you will avoid paying interest altogether so the higher annual fee may be worth it.

No interest-free periodIf you know you won’t be

paying your debt in full straight away, consider a card with no interest-free days.

You’ll usually pay lower annual fees and less interest, either from the day of purchase or the day your monthly statement is issued.

Be wary of specialsCheck the terms and conditions

of the credit contract carefully before you sign up for a card with a low introductory rate.

If the card issuer offers a ‘honeymoon rate’, check what level the interest rate will rise to after the introductory or honeymoon period ends and what fees and charges come with the offer.

A card with higher fees might wipe out your savings from the honeymoon period before long.

Smart ways to use your credit card Pay more than the minimum

repayment each month, to pay off your balance more quickly and save on interest.

If you can only make the minimum monthly repayment, switch to a card with a low

interest rate and pay off more when you can.

Keep track of spending on your credit card so you stay within your limit. Use ASIC’s MoneySmart TrackMySPEND app to help manage your spending.

Consider setting up a direct debit to pay a fixed amount off the balance owing each pay day.

Do not take cash advances because they usually attract higher interest.

Use ASIC’s MoneySmart credit card calculator to work out the fastest way to pay off your credit card.Avoid getting a credit card if you

are using it to pay off other debts.The higher interest rate and

other fees and charges may cost you more in the long run. If you can’t meet loan repayments, talk with your credit provider and let them know you are experiencing financial hardship.

ASIC’s MoneySmart TrackMySPEND app and credit card calculator can be found at www.moneysmart.gov.au

Choosing a credit card that’s best for you requires thought, Australian Securities and Investment Commission chairman Greg Medcraft says.

The cold, card facts

USE the key facts sheet available from credit card issuers to compare cards. Key facts sheets contain information on: minimum repayments purchase and cash advance rates promotional interest rate (if any) length of the interest-free period (if any) annual and late payment fees (if any)

How to compare cards

Photo: CPL Nick Wiseman

Roll up your sleeves and give blood together.Call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au/defence

DEFENCE BLOOD CHALLENGE 1 SEPT – 30 NOV

WHO WILL SAVE THE MOST LIVES?

With over 30 years

experiencein assisting

Defence ForcePersonnel,

Spectrum will:

Provide education onallfinancial & investment areas

Develop a personalised long term investment strategy

Implement and regularly review

CALLNOW!1300 784 246

or visit www.spect.com.au

Spectrum is a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Registered Tax Agent & Accredited Mortgage Consultant.

Properties•Loans•Tax•DefenceEntitlements

AREYOULOOKINGTOINVESTINPROPERTY?Contact us to discussyour investment needs.

ACTNOWTOAVOIDANYPOSSIBLEFUTURELENDINGRESTRAINTS!

SPECTRUMCANHELPYOUWITH:• Investing in growth areas• Finding the right loan• Considering fixed v variable interest rates• Own home v investment property• Negative gearing

• Utilising Defence entitlements (DHOAS, HPSEA etc.)

CONTACTUSTOFINDOUTMORE!

STAY INFORMED!Visit our Facebook page spectrumfinancialsolutions

25November 20, 2014RCEAIR F Health

Smart about weight lossBeing wise about diet and exercise can help keep muscle mass, while shedding fat and staying healthy.

WHILE most people talk about losing weight, what they actually want to achieve is a loss of body fat. According

to the Australian Institute of Sport nutrition experts the ultimate goal is to change the balance between daily energy intake and energy expenditure.

For successful long-term weight loss, the goal is to lose body fat while preserv-ing muscle mass. In sports, a loss of body fat may be desired for several reasons related to performance: so people can be transported around

more easily, especially over long dis-tances (e.g. marathon running)

for appearance reasons (e.g. gymnas-tics)

to improve the power-to-weight ratio (e.g. sprinting)

to make the weigh-in requirements in sports with weight divisions (e.g. light-weight rowing, boxing, judo).

Dietary fatToo much fat in the diet increases the risk of becoming overweight. Fats are energy dense (37kJ/g) compared to pro-tein (17kJ/g) and carbohydrate (16kJ/g). Alcohol is also quite energy dense at 29kJ/g. Reducing dietary fat is an easy way to reduce energy intake and promote fat loss. Registers of people who have successfully lost weight and managed to keep it off for at least one year show that the most common factors for success are increased activity and low-fat eating.

Energy densityTo achieve the real goal of reducing energy intake, we need to replace high-fat foods with low-energy density choices such as fruit and vegetables. Adequate carbohydrate intake is still an important principle of healthy eating. These strategies should be underpinned by meeting our fluid needs with low-energy choices, especially water.

ExerciseA substantial increase in physical activity is an essential factor in staying leaner. The best type of exercise for weight loss is anything that can be undertaken at a mod-erate to high intensity for 30-60 minutes or longer. Aerobic activities such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling and swimming are effective. Also, look for ways to incor-porate active living into your daily routine – for example, walk instead of drive, take the stairs and cycle to get around. With this activity providing a baseline, it may be easier to add extra exercise, such as a brisk walk 2-3 times a week.

Food quantitiesMuch of our eating is done for reasons other than hunger. In these situations it is difficult to identify why someone might be eating. Common reasons include the clock says it’s meal time, the food tastes great, eating as a reward and eating out of habit. Rather than eating on ‘automatic pilot’, take time-out before meals to ask how hungry you really are, what type of foods would be enjoyed and what other stressors are pushing you to eat. The message is to eat smart.

Article courtesy of the Australian Institute of Sport

Rather than eating on ‘automatic pilot’, take time-out before meals to ask how hungry you really are, what type of foods would be enjoyed and what other stressors are pushing you to eat. Photo: SGT Dave Morley

AT A GLANCE Focus on overall health, not low

body weight. Choose a balanced diet, empha-

sising a variety of nutrient-dense foods.

Investigate reasons for eating when not hungry.

Include aerobic training into your lifestyle, by using stairs, walking or riding instead of driving.

Approach weight loss as a long-term change in lifestyle.

New TAE LLN Unit Special $110

TAELLN411 Address adult language, literacy & numeracy skills Go to website for details on this RPL special & all qualification fees

BSB51312 Diploma of Work Health & Safety BSB41412 Certificate IV in Work Health & Safety BSB60407 Advanced Diploma of Management* BSB51107 Diploma of Management BSB50207 Diploma of Business BSB51413 Diploma of Project Management BSB51607 Diploma of Quality Auditing* CPP50611 Diploma of Security & Risk Management TAE50111 Diploma of Vocational Education & Training* TAE40110 Certificate IV in Training & Assessment

* contracted to Tafe Qld 0418 to deliver these qualifications

www.hamel.edu.au1300 7 999 14

[email protected] Institute - Registered Training Organisation 32399

Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a great tax return every year!

Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment

One Tax agent - We are not limited to localityso you and your family dont ever have tolook for another tax agent again

Do you want a PHAT Tax Return?

Call our 24/7 bookings hotline 1300 763 575or visit us online at www.phatreturns.com.au

Defence Force tax specialists - We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities, including:

• Members with investment properties• Members who have served overseas

• Members who have fallen behind on lodging their tax returns

26 November 20, 2014RCEAIR FSp rt

CPL Nick Wiseman

NO ONE was more surprised than FLGOFF Megan Coppins when she won the Ms Figure Novice at the Defence and Emergency Services bodybuilding titles.

It was her first day of competitive bodybuilding.She had already finished second in the Figure

International competition.“I was definitely pleased but did not expect to

place first in this event,” she said. “My goal was simply to get on stage.”

FLGOFF Coppins (pictured above) was one of several Air Force achievers at the Sleeman’s Centre in Brisbane on September 14.

The competition attracted 26 competitors from across the ADF and emergency services.

This was the first year the titles had been opened up to emergency services personnel.

LAC Brendan Purvis won the men’s fitness cat-egory, CPL Michelle Mazins was second in the fit-ness model category, and former Air Force member Tania Grech was second in Ms Figure Masters +40s and third in Ms Figure Open.

FLGOFF Coppins said she had always been heav-ily involved in sport of all kinds and said she had decided to focus on the weights room because it was something she previously found exceptionally difficult.

“I need tangible goals to suit my training, so this year I decided to enter the bodybuilding competi-tion,” she said.

“I love bodybuilding because it’s about pushing yourself to your physical and mental limits, consist-ently, every day.

“Applying the principles that I have learned and seeing results from that is extremely rewarding.”

First-up success for bodybuilder

CPL Mark Doran

ADF hockey players warmed up for the Pan Pacific Championships with games against the touring British Army Adjutant General’s Corps (AGC) hockey team in Sydney and Melbourne.

AGC played the com-bined NSW/ACT ADF hockey men’s and women’s teams in Sydney on October 27–28 then competed against the ADF’s Victorian teams in Melbourne on November 1-2.

The ADF NSW teams proved their worth against the Brits with a 5-4 win in the men’s and a 2-2 draw in the women’s on October 27, followed by a 2-2 draw and a 2-1 victory on the following day.

LAC Michael Anderson, of No. 3 Controlling and Reporting Unit at RAAF Base Williamtown, said it was great to have a hit and become mates with the hockey players from the AGC team.

“The Brits were excellent

sports and we played some decent hockey,” LAC Anderson said.

The AGC is one of the larg-est corps in the British Army and provides support in the form of combat human resources special-ists, military police and provost staff, educational, training and army legal services.

ADF International Tour Coordinator WO William McConnell said ADF Hockey was hosted by the British Army during its tour of Britain in 2013 and reciprocated by hosting the AGC tour of Australia.

“Usually theses tours are hosted in Sydney or Brisbane, but this tour allowed us to engage the Victorian and South Australian players to play against an interna-tional team,” he said.

“The AGC tour was a fantastic way to continue ADF Hockey’s relationships with teams around the world and play a higher stand-ard of hockey, especially during the off-season.”

Michael Brooke

ACW Eve Tremblay made the switch from ice hockey to field hockey to help the ADF women’s over-30s team win the gold medal at the Pan Pacific Masters’ Games on the Gold Coast from November 2-8.

The ADF Princess Warriors beat Sass-Fit Australia 2-0 in the grand final.

And in a double celebration, the ADF men’s over-30s team net-ted silver, losing 4-2 to Brisbane’s Universals.

ACW Tremblay, of RAAF Base Amberley, was playing field hockey for the first time.

“I was more of an ice hockey play-er with the Canadian Defence Forces,” she said.

“It was so very different with-out ice skates and I learnt new tricks every game.”

ACW Tremblay, who played as a left winger, said teamwork was a key.

“I believe that being in Defence gave us the advantage to work as a strong team straight away and to adapt to any situation and finish strongly.”

A D F I n t e r n a t i o n a l To u r

Coordinator WO William McConnell was ecstatic with the ADF results in a competition that featured 10,000 ath-letes in 40 sports.

WO McConnell said the Princess Warriors emerged undefeated from the championship after six games.

“The opposition team featured several very classy players including ex-Hockeyroos captain and Olympic gold medallist Nicki Hudson,” he said.

“ACW Tremblay was a star throughout the tournament. It was just incredible to see her transition from ice hockey to field hockey.”

WO McConnell said the ADF men played well but lacked the strike power of their opponents.

“The men had a very success-ful campaign but lost their way in defence at crucial times in the grand final,” he said.

SGT Shane Thruston, of RAAF Base Amberley, slotted the first goal of the grand final to give his team a great start.

SGT Thruston was busy in attack and only bad luck or great saves by the goalkeeper prevented him from adding to his tally.

From rink to field

ACW Eve Tremblay who was playing field hockey for the first time.

Visiting British provide hard match practice

LACW Megan MacAuslan takes on a player from the British Army Adjutant General’s Corps in Sydney. Photo: AB Sarah Ebsworth

Have you ceased your ADF pay allotment yet?

From 12 February 2015 members’ non-BSB discretionary allotments (deductions) will be ceased. Members must undertake the following steps:

For more information visit the FAQs on the Defence One website

To do list

1: Check your discretionary allotments under PMKeyS Self Service or Home Portal

2: Contact your recipient organisation to identify alternate payment methods

3: Complete new payment paperwork

4: Cease current discretionary allotments

5: Next pay cycle confirm allotment has ceased

6: Confirm your recipient organisation has received your first new payment and that any gap in payment is managed.

Cease your deductions... time is ticking

http://ciogintranet/organisation/HRDD/PSMB/DefenceOne

AU

G01

3-14

Programs in Aviation ManagementPostgraduate courses offered bydistance education.

Bachelor of AviationA three year degree with flyingand management options.

Find out more:www.aviation.unsw.edu.auCall: (02) 9385-6767

School of Aviation

Take yourcareer to anew height

NeverStand Still

Facultyof Science

Upgrade your professionalqualification @ UNSW Aviation:

CRICOSProviderCode:00098G

ContactDr Steve Holding Ph: 042 303 7474

PILOT, ATC, ACO Remuster

SELECTION TEST& YEAR 12 Bridging

Mathematics & Physics

www.aeroscience.com.au

27November 20, 2014RCEAIR F Sp rt

Read AIRFORCE Newsanywhere, anytime

GO ONLINEwww.defence.gov.au/

news/raafnews

Michael Brooke

ELEVEN Air Force players helped three ADF soccer teams to stunning triumphs over the Emergency Services representa-tive sides at Sydney’s Cromer Park on November 7.

ADF won the men’s open, women’s open and the men’s over-35s matches with an aggregate score of 16-3.

The Air Force players were selected after their strong perfor-mances in the Australian Defence Football Federation (ADFF) National Carnival at Sydney’s Cromer Park f rom October 31-November 5.

About 60 players in three Air Force teams competed in the ADFF championships.

Air Force, the defending open men’s champion, lost 1-0 to Navy and 2-1 to Army and 2-0 to the UK Royal Marines, which won the carnival.

Coach FLTLT Ben Cowan praised his players.

“Although we did not win, I am very pleased with the team’s endeavour and playing structure,” he said.

“Some years games go your way and others don’t.

“Such results provide a key source of motivation to return in 2015 and win back the title.”

Air Force had four players selected in the ADF men’s open team, which pipped the Emergency Services 2-1 on November 7.

A i r Fo r c e ’s r e p r e s e n t a -tives were LAC Hassen Arnaout, FLGOFF Terence Taye, SGT Craig Gallard and OFFCDT Miles Lindberg, who were impressive for the ADF in both attack and defence.

Air Force beat Army 3-0 in the men’s over-35s at the ADFF National Carnival but lost 4-0 to Navy in the decider.

All three services were equal on one win each but the interser-vice trophy was awarded to Navy on goal difference.

LAC Danny Penfold was awarded the Players’ Player award.

LAC Penfold, FSGT Geoff Gil lard, FLTLT Cowan and SGT Nathan King played in the ADF over-35s team, which beat Emergency Services 8-1.

The women’s open team was out-gunned in all four games against Army and Navy.

CPL Michelle Drennan was outstanding as a defender and was rewarded with the Players’ Player award.

LACW Hannah Graham, CPL Ashlie Rennie and LACW Jaimi-Lee Wykes were selected in the ADF team that beat the Emergency Services 6-1.

ADF soccer teams in top form

LAC Hassen Arnaout, right, takes on an Army player during the Defence carnival.

CPL Aaron Curran

NSW men and Queensland women emerged as ADF volleyball cham-pions, despite both succumbing to New Zealand Army in their grand finals at Nowra.

Teams from NZ Army and the Royal Navy participated as guests in the tournament, which attracted ADF teams from all three services and a number of states to HMAS Creswell and HMAS Albatross from October 25 to November 1.

The NSW men’s team, which was mainly made up of Air Force players, reached the final by beating South Australia in a playoff.

But that game took its toll as fatigue set in and NZ Army won, three sets to two.

It was a similar story for the Queensland women who lost three sets to one.

Queensland was made up of Army and Air Force players and reached the final by beating NSW in a playoff.

Women’s coach PTE Matthew Millard said the final was a tough battle with lots of close calls and immense rallies.

“Finals are always tough, not just physical but mental,” he said.

“The girls had to be mentally on top of the opposition at crucial points in the game.”

He said they gave everything they had in the grand final.

“The only weakness in their

QUEENSLAND captain CPL Katie Sharpe was a happy player at the end of the tournament.

Aside from her team winning the ADF title, she also racked up some personal accolades.

CPL Sharpe was awarded overall best player, made the All-Star Six – Best Server and was chosen in the ADF women’s team.

CPL Sharpe, of No. 2 Security Forces Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley, was playing in the tournament for the fifth year in a row.

“I have never played at a Navy base before, only Army or Air Force bases,” she said.

“There was great scenery and it was amaz-ing to have the overseas teams there.

“The highlight of the tournament was see-ing the team come together and give the grand final everything they had.”

Champions fight fatigue

game came through exhaustion,” PTE Millard said.

“With a long tournament came a lot of mental strain as physical fatigue kicked in.”

NSW coach CPL Trevor Connell also won the Most Valuable Player

(MVP) award in the men’s grand final and player AC Scott Roberts finished as MVP of the tournament.

“NSW setter PLTOFF Josh Suh took out the All-Star award for best server and played a great tournament all week,” CPL Connell said.

CPL Connell said the highlight of the tournament for him was play-ing the grand final against the NZ Army.

“They always bring a strong team to Australia and it was an intense match,” he said.

Adding to the list of honours

CPL Byron Helfrich spikes the ball surrounded by NSW teammates, (L-R) PTE Gurpreet Singh Badwal, FLGOFF Matthew Holecek, AC Scott Roberts, PLTOFF Joshua Suh and CPL Trevor Connell.

CPL Katie Sharpe goes for a winner in the final. Photos: AB Sarah Williams

SP RTNovember 20, 2014

SERVE IT UPOur players help NSW men’s and Queensland women’s teams to victory at ADF Volleyball

Championships

CPL Trevor Connell prepares to hit the ball set up by PLTOFF Joshua Suh (No 2) in the grand final against the NZ Army. CPL Connell won the award for the Most Valuable Player in the grand final and PLTOFF Suh took out the All-Star award for best server. Photo: AB Sarah Williams

ADF women’s over-30s team wins gold at the Pan Pacific Masters’

–

PAGE 27

RCEAIR F November 20, 2014 1

SPECIAL LIFTOUT

AWAY FROM HOME

Our people and aircraft hard at work on Operations Okra, Slipper and Accordion

MIDDLE EAST OPS

An Air Force KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport and the launch crew chief at dusk, moments before another mission refuelling coalition aircraft over Iraq. Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

2 RCEAIR F November 20, 2014MIDDLE EAST OPS 3

‘FLYING on a tanker, on a sortie over Baghdad on combat operations was just surreal and amazing,”

Deputy Commander Joint Task Force 633 AIRCDRE Noel Derwort said.

AIRCDRE Derwort deployed to the Middle East from April 29 to November 5 and was responsible for the management and command of personnel deployed on Operations Accordion, Manitou, Slipper and Okra.

AIRCDRE Derwort and Air Force’s KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) have shared a common bond over the past eight years.

“I was the director of the KC-30A MRTT Transition Team from 2007 to 2011,” AIRCDRE Derwort said.

“I was heavily involved in getting the KC-30A MRTT into service.”

AIRCDRE Derwort also com-manded Aerospace Operational Support Group (AOSG), which was involved in conducting operational flight tests for the KC-30A.

During his time on the KC-30A project and as Commander AOSG, AIRCDRE Derwort never had the opportunity to fly on the aircraft itself.

“The first time I was able to fly in the aircraft was on a combat mission over Iraq,” he said.

“It was amazing to experience and see the product of everything we have done over all these years.

“Watching how the crew operated and just seeing their professional-

ism, working with other aircraft, was remarkable.”

As Deputy Commander JTF 633, AIRCDRE Derwort was privileged to be on operations and be part of the build-up of air power in the Middle East.

“It was phenomenal to be able to see what Australia could achieve in such a short period of time,” he said.

“I was told that it was going to be relatively quiet but little did we know when I started just how much would happen over my tenure.”

The KC-30A MRTT is a highly modified Airbus A330 airliner used for air-to-air refuelling and strategic transport and is a comparatively new aircraft for Defence.

“The guys have done an excep-tional job to make sure the aircraft is effective, which is demonstrated by it being here,” he said.

“The team has a clear focus on getting the job done and we will con-tinue to do so, at the same time refin-ing the capability.”

AIRCDRE Derwort said a lot of challenges identified in the KC-30A program had been overcome.

“It is professionally rewarding knowing we could accurately identify a problem and, while frustrating that we have not been able to resolve all of them, the crews have been able to deliver an incredible capability,” he said.

“I feel very proud of what we have been able to achieve in that time frame, and I am very comfortable knowing we did all the things we could do.”

SQNLDR September Clare

AuSTRALIA’S Air Task Group KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport is quite the departure from its beginnings as an Airbus A330 airliner.

It operates over war zones with its heavy modifications enabling it to refuel combat aircraft which go on to attack ISIL targets in between ‘top ups’.

Megan, the Senior Engineering Officer for the KC-30A in the Middle East, is on her first opera-tional deployment and leads a skilled maintenance crew which works late into the night and often into the early hours of the morning to keep the air-craft ready for its next mission.

“Working in the Middle East is very different to working in Australia,” she said.

“We have to conduct our mainte-nance a little differently.

“It’s very hot and very dusty, so we need to make considerations for that and work around it.”

Inside, the KC-30A looks like any long-haul airliner and is capable of carrying 270 personnel and up to 34,000kg of cargo.

However, this Airbus is fitted with air-to-air refuelling systems which you will not find on any civilian airliner.

The military-specific modifica-tions have implications for post-flight servicing.

“In addition to the usual inspec-tions and maintenance, we pull out the refuelling hoses and inspect the ‘drogue’, which is the name of the basket the fighter jets ‘plug’ into when they refuel,” Megan said.

The ability for fighter aircraft to refuel mid-air without returning to base means they can remain over ISIL-controlled territory for longer.

This means maintaining the refuelling equipment on board the KC-30A is incredibly important.

Megan said deploying as part of Australia’s Air Task Group’s contri-bution to the multinational coalition targeting ISIL meant a lot to her team.

“Our tanker is refuelling both Australian and coalition aircraft,” she said.

“We are aware of the bigger pic-ture and I am extremely proud of my team’s place in it.”

Three members of the maintenance crew of a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport inspect the refuelling drogue for possible damage after a mission over Iraq. Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

REWARDING ROLEDeputy Commander Joint Task Force 633 has a special connection with the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport, CAPT Bradley Richardson reports.

Tanker adds fuel to the fight

SGT Dave Morley

T H E e x c e p t i o n a l s k i l l a n d professionalism of our Air Task Group was recognised when it was given responsibility to lead a large multinational force over northern Iraq in late October, according to Director-General Air Operations AIRCDRE Joe Iervasi.

“The mission was a great success: every weapon was on time and on target,” he said.

“Key ISIL facilities used to mount attacks on the people of Iraq were destroyed.

“I remain confident in the skill and professionalism of the whole team. Australia should be proud of its Air Force personnel.”

CJOPS VADM David Johnston said as of November 2, the ATG F/A-18F Super Hornets had flown 89 sorties and accrued 663 flying hours, “which is a long time in an ejection seat”.

“They’ve employed 27 laser- or GPS-guided 500-pound bombs, striking a number of ISIL targets,” he said.

“Of 14 targets we’ve hit, 11 have

been confirmed as destroyed and three assessed as damaged.”

VADM Johnston said the task group’s KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport had flown 33 sorties and provided more than 2.5 million pounds of fuel to coalition aircraft.

“The total number of aircraft we are refuelling is increasing,” he said.

“We previously refuelled our own aircraft and French Rafale fighters but now we’re also refuelling American Super Hornets and Marine Harrier aircraft on a much more routine basis.”

He also said our E-7A Wedgetail had been performing particularly well and had conducted 24 missions.

A I R C D R E I e r va s i s a i d t h e Wedgetail provided a command, control and coordination capability back to the central command’s combined Air and Space Operations Centre, which has overall control of all air operations over Iraq.

“This includes the passing of detailed directions that come from the Air and Space Operations Centre, including targeting details,” AIRCDE Iervasi said.

Deputy Commander of Joint Task Force 633 AIRCDRE Noel Derwort inside the headquarters at Camp Baird in the Middle East. Photo: SGT Hamish PatersonFrom strength

to strength

A French Air Force Dassault Rafale F1 fighter jet receives fuel from our KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport over Iraq. Photo: SGT Mick Davis

An F/A-18F Super Hornet refuels from our KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport over Iraq. Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

“These targeting details work in a virtual network, which includes information passed back to the uS in a live timeframe and back to the Middle East for correlation.

“So when a target arises, or is seen as a target of opportunity, it can bounce three-quarters of the way across the globe and we could be striking that target within about 15 minutes.”

VADM Johnston said the Iraqi

Security Forces’ military campaign continued to disrupt ISIL.

“We are providing time for the Iraqi Government to build an inclusive government and regenerate its own forces,” he said.

“We’ve recently welcomed the appointment of a defence minister and a minister of the interior and the swearing in to parliament of a number of Kurdish representatives.

“ISIL continues to exploit fear and intimidation; it doesn’t offer hope, it doesn’t provide safety, prosperity or tolerance.”

He said the air campaign was continuing to deny ISIL freedom of movement, the ability to mass its forces and the ability to conduct resupply of fighters in the field.

“We’ve continued to target their means of transportation, their heavy

equipment, their command and control nodes and their logistic supply centres in order to degrade and disrupt them,” VADM Johnston said.

“ISIL has tactical influence but the coalition maintains the strategic momentum, with the 60 nations continuing to work closely together.”

These countries include the uS, uK, France, Canada, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands

Aircraft technician Samantha supervises the flightline as an F/A-18F Super Hornet taxis in preparation for a combat mission. Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

Ground crew tow an airconditioning unit from an E-7A Wedgetail before a mission. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

To see a video of our Air Task Group on operation okra, visit http://video.airforce.gov.au

RCEAIR FNovember 20, 20144 MIDDLE EAST OPS

NATO’s Command HQ at Kandahar Air Field (COMKAF) marked the completion of its mission with a ceremony in Afghanistan on October 14.

Members of Joint Task Force 633, coalition members and Afghan personnel gathered in the Kandahar Airfield air movements hangar to mark the end of the NATO mission that provided base defence, support services and airfield operations.

Among them was WGCDR Steve Cutajar, former COMKAF

chief planner and operations officer. “COMKAF was designed to run the airfield in terms of all the services on the base and also to integrate all the nations together, along with being NATO’s representative here,” he said.

At the end of COMKAF’s mission, six ADF personnel were serving in the headquarters.

During the mission the number peaked at 20 or more.

Numerous Australians served during the mission, which was established in 2007, and WGCDR

Cutajar said Australians had provided essential support from the beginning.

“We had our wing commanders that ran the entire logistics for COMKAF and we’ve had flightline security for the airfield,” he said.

“We also have some airfield operation personnel and they run it in terms of coordinating aircraft movements.

“COMKAF also helped Australians ensure we got our air-side ramp spaces correct, ensure we got in and out on time and they

provided general support for our airfield operations.”

Airfield functions will now be taken on by the US Air Force’s 451st Air Expeditionary Group and base operating functions will go to the Regional Support Group.

“As the airfield downsizes some of those combat air support elements go away and you’ll see the NATO community is shrinking,” WGCDR Cutajar said.

“The Afghans are starting to take on more responsibility with the assistance of the coalition forces.”

IF YOU need intensive care at Kandahar’s Role 3 hospital, you might find yourself in the capable hands of FLTLT Bernard Clarke.FLTLT Clarke works alongside

US Navy personnel as an intensive-care nurse in the 12-bed ward of the Role 3 facility where he’s picked up a few skills from his American mates.

“We’ve learned how to be more efficient when we deliver care to patients,” he said. “That could be anything from how we look after a

ventilator patient or management of a patient with a head injury.

“We also have training on a regu-lar basis and we have an opportunity to compare notes.”

Seven other ADF “damage control” trauma specialists work at Role 3, with FLTLT Clarke treating coalition and Afghan soldiers.

Rather than engage in the long process of recovery and convales-cence, seriously wounded soldiers go through the trauma ward, into the operating room then to intensive

care before being flown out of the country.

Despite their best efforts, staff at Role 3 recently could not save a coa-lition soldier with a gunshot wound but FLTLT Clarke said they made sure the family could say their final goodbye.

“We saw the whole hospital come together to get this patient to Germany,” he said. “Here the family were able to meet him, however, the member unfortunately passed away.

“A lot of the efforts in Kandahar

could be attributed to the goal being achieved, his family seeing him one last time.”

FLTLT Clarke is posted to the Health Operational Conversion Unit at RAAF Base Amberley and has seven years of intensive care nursing experience with a sub-specialty in burns.

“We thankfully haven’t seen many burns patients while we’ve been here but with the management of skin conditions or large wounds I can apply those skills,” he said. “And

with our coalition partners I can say ‘this is how we manage similar cases back in Australia and the outcomes we’ve had with them’.”

As the only Air Force serviceman on a staff of more than 90, FLTLT Clarke noticed some “quirks” at the US Navy-run facility.

“They have a ‘quarterdeck’ that’s the administration office and when they say they’re going to the head they’re going to the bathroom,” he said. “So a few of those quirky things make it a little bit interesting.”

Sole Air Force member amid sea of Navy medical workers at Kandahar hospital, CPL Max Bree reports.

FLTLT Bernard Clarke moves an intravenous stand during a mass casualty exercise at the Role 3 medical facility at Kandahar Airfield; inset, in the trauma bay. Photos: CPL Max Bree

Caring and sharing

ADF members have had a strong input into NATO HQ, CPL Max Bree reports.

NATO marks end of mission

Coalition personnel salute at the COMKAF end of mission ceremony in Kandahar. Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

Vol. 56, No. 22, November 20, 2014 The official newspaper ... · PDF fileAIRF RCE Vol. 56, No....

Documents

Transcript of Vol. 56, No. 22, November 20, 2014 The official newspaper ... · PDF fileAIRF RCE Vol. 56, No....