AIR FVol. 54, No. 14, August 2, 2012 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

RCERCE2 Th

JOINING FORCES

Exercise Pitch Black takes to the skies in the Top End

P3NEW MEDAL TO RECOGNISE OP RESOLUTE SERVICE

MAKING AN ENTRANCE: 77SQN F/A-18s welcomed

Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) Sukhoi Su-30 Flanker jets

into Darwin when they arrived on July 26 to participate in

Exercise Pitch Black for the first time. Below inset, members of the TNI AU, assisted by RAAF

air load team members, unload equipment from a TNI AU C-130

after arriving at RAAF Base Darwin. Photos: SGT Shane Gidall

(main) and FSGT John Carroll

P5

2 August 2, 2012RCEAIR FNews

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EDITORIAL TEAMEditor/Deputy DirectorSimone Liebelt: (02) 6265 2253Deputy Editor John Martin: (02) 6265 7219Production Editor/Sports EditorSharon Palmer: (02) 6266 7612ReportersSGT Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304CPL Nick Wiseman: (02) 6265 4140CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 LAC Bill Solomou: (02) 6265 1355Andrew Stackpool: (02) 6266 7611

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DISCLAIMERAir Force News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence News. It is printed under contract by Capital Fine Print. 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 adver-tisement is subject to Directorate of Defence News approval and the Directorate of Defence News may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertise-ment. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence News. The fact that an advertisement is accepted for publication does not mean that the product or service is endorsed by the Department of Defence or Air Force News.

CPL Mark Doran

UNTIL November last year, SGT Andrew Kleef, of 81WG, had never donated blood.

This year, SGT Kleef is Air Force’s blood challenge ambassador and says it has provided him with an opportu-nity to help educate and encourage people to donate blood.

“I can do this by sharing my fam-ily’s story about how much it has helped us and made a difference to our lives,” he said.

“I had not even thought about donating until November last year.

“I didn’t understand how many uses blood had and how many people it helped and the lives it saved.”

SGT Kleef said when he and his wife Tracy decided to have children they discovered they would need to use in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).

“It took eight attempts to conceive our first child, Mitchell, and three for Nathan,” he said.

“Nathan was diagnosed in August 2011 with X-linked hyper IgM syn-drome which is a primary immune deficiency.

“He was only 13 months old.”X-linked hyper IgM syndrome is a

condition that affects the immune sys-tem and occurs exclusively in males, affecting one in 500,000 children.

Individuals with the syndrome begin to develop frequent infections in infancy and early childhood. Without treatment, this condition can result in death during childhood or adolescence.

People with the syndrome have abnormal levels of proteins called anti-bodies or immunoglobulin.

Antibodies help protect the body against infection by attaching to spe-cific foreign particles and germs, marking them for destruction.

SGT Kleef said Nathan’s body did not produce the immunoglobulin he needed to be able to fight bacterial infections.

“These infections include pneumo-nia, chest and ear infections. And if he drinks water containing cryptosporidi-um he can get an intestinal infection,” he said.

The t r ea tment fo r immune deficiency has come a long way. Immunoglobulin boosts the immune system and helps provide a normal balance of antibodies to fight infec-tions.

Before these procedures existed patients were like the ‘Bubble Boy’ and had to live in a sterile environment to avoid the possibility of infections.

Patients are highly prone to lung and liver damage, and even 10 years ago, life expectancy was dramati-cally reduced with a large percentage of people with an immune deficiency dying before they were 25.

SGT Kleef said before Nathan was diagnosed he suffered from chest infections and an abscess in his groin

and ulcers in his mouth and throat. “He was at a point where he stopped eating and drinking,” he said.

“We decided to take him to the John Hunter Emergency Department in Newcastle where the doctors real-ised they were dealing with a rare case history. It took them six days to iden-tify the problem.

“Initially, Tracy and I thought a solution would involve minor treat-ment then everything would be fine.

“It turned out to be a bit more com-plicated, and very serious.”

Nathan now receives a blood prod-uct called intravenous immunoglobu-lin, which is taken from whole blood or plasma donations.

Intravenous immunoglobulin con-tains the pooled, immunoglobulin antibody extracted from the plasma of more than 1000 blood donors.

Immunoglobulin is absorbed by the body, so every month Nathan requires a top up, which until recently meant regular trips to hospital.

The Kleef family have a new deliv-

ery system and are able to do the top up at home.

“Once his treatment was balanced, which took a few months, he become a typical, completely healthy kid. He’s very happy,” SGT Kleef said

“He’s a funny kid with a lot of character, a bit cheeky and has to play with whatever his brother is playing with – he actually gets sick less than Mitchell – it’s just amazing for us now.

“We can take him everywhere and don’t have to worry about him catching germs at the shops or on the swings and slides at the public play-ground. It’s been a life-changer.”

A bone marrow transplant offers a full cure for X-linked hyper IgM syndrome by essentially replacing the immune system.

SGT Kleef and Tracy were tested and found not to be donor matches though Mitchell was a 5/6 match in the first round of testing. “If Nathan stays healthy, the doctors have suggested we wait until he is around five before we attempt the transplant,” he said.

The work being done at RAAF Base Williamtown by the base blood service coordinator, Samuel Hays, has increased the base blood donation rate from 120 to 280 donors a quarter.

SGT Kleef said he would like to help other bases achieve similar suc-cess by using a comparable system to improve blood donations.

“We need base coordinators and ideally unit coordinators under them to encourage volunteers and take it to the next level,” he said.

“Statistics have shown units which have a coordinator have a donor partic-ipation rate of 9.3 per cent while units without have a rate of 1.8 per cent.

“It makes a bigger impact when people take on the role to promote the blood service and this can be done by hanging posters or distributing flyers and sharing e-mails explaining why blood donations are important.”

More information on the ADO blood drive will appear in future editions of Air Force News.

ALL BETTER NOW: Blood ambassador SGT Andrew Kleef, of 81WG, with his son Nathan who requires regular blood products to treat his rare immune deficiency disorder. Photo courtesy Australian Red Cross Blood Service

DEFENCE ORGANISATION BLOOD CHALLENGE

IT’S ALMOST TIME TO SIGN UP

Drop in and save lives

TELL US YOUR STORY

If you donate regularly or have received blood, we want to hear from you. Email the editor at: raafnews@defencenews.gov.au and share your story.

� THE 2012 Defence Organi-sation Blood Challenge will be launched this month and will run from September to November.

� The partnership between the ADO and the Austral-ian Red Cross Blood Service has produced more than 5000 donations in the last three years and potentially saved more than 6000 lives.

� Now in its fourth year, the Blood Challenge is Aus-tralia’s largest.

� Navy, Army, Air Force and Defence Public Service employees compete over a three-month period each year to make the highest number of blood dona-tions and friends and fam-ily can also donate.

3August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF News

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ALL future operations will now be recognised with the new Australian Operational Service Medal (OSM).

Defence Science and Personnel Minister Warren Snowdon and CN VADM Ray Griggs announced the new medal on July 19.

The OSM wi l l recognise Defence personnel who work as part of a declared operation or with-in other specific hazardous environ-ments and circumstances.

Retrospective recognition from 1997 will be granted for ADF per-sonnel involved with border protec-tion operations.

The OSM will replace the A u s t r a l i a n S e r v i c e M e d a l , Australian Active Service Medal or campaign medals in future opera-tions.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown said he believed the Government’s decision would pave the way for wider community recognition of Air Force people deployed on operations, in particular, Operation Resolute and the preceding Operations Relex and Relex II.

“For the last 11 years, our Air Force personnel have worked tire-lessly to protect Australia’s borders as part of the ADF’s contribution to the whole of government focus on domestic maritime security activi-ties,” he said.

“I am very proud of our mem-bers on Operation Resolute. They constantly demonstrate a level of professionalism and devotion to duty that enhances Air Force’s repu-tation.

“I am keenly aware of the sus-tained pressure that has been on the aircrew, maintenance and support staff during the current increase in operational intensity, and many areas of Air Force are working above and beyond to ensure mis-sions are accomplished, day in and day out.”

Head of People Capability MAJGEN Gerard Fogarty said the new medal would enable greater

The border protection opera-tions the OSM applies to are: Cranberry, Dirk, Stanhope, Mistral, Teebone, Celesta, Sutton, Gemsbok, Relex, Relex II and Resolute.The basic qualifying criteria for the OSM – Border Protection require members of the ADF to have been deployed or force assigned for duty as such a member of a declared operation:➤ for not less than an aggre-

gate of 30 days; or➤ completed 30 sorties from a

unit assigned to a declared operation, provided that those sorties were conducted over a period of not less than an aggregate of 30 days at a rate of one sortie a day.

AIR Force personnel were quick to assist when a Singaporean Airlines Boeing 777 passenger jet was diverted to RAAF Learmonth in Western Australia.

The aircraft was on the final stages of a flight into Perth on July 11 but could not land because of fog.

The Singaporean jet was low on fuel, so it was diverted to Learmonth.

Air Force personnel on the base assist-ed with its landing (and departure), and provided security while the aircraft was on the ground.

Refuelling services were provided by the Shire of Exmouth.

The incident started unfolding about 9.15am.

The four Airbase Operations caretaker personnel at the base were alerted by a telephone call from Melbourne Air Traffic Control Centre to the site manager, while Singapore Airlines alerted the Exmouth Aerodrome Reporting Officer.

SQNLDR Gregory Thexton, of 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing, said after the aircraft landed, it was parked on the RAAF Air Movements hardstand.

“Air Force staff provided the air stairs so the aircraft captain could come down and conduct the refuel panel operation,” he said.

“They also helped the civil refueller to reach the underwing refuel point.”

The captain of the Singapore jet requested support for one of the pas-sengers whose medications were secured in the hold and therefore inaccessible, but there was a change of mind.

“A doctor on board had reviewed and provided a list of medication, however, as the nearest chemist was 40km away, the doctor apparently decided that the pas-senger’s health would not be impeded by the delay.”

Because there were no customs or immigration services at Learmonth, all passengers remained aboard the aircraft for the stop.

After being refuelled, the 777 took off at 12.20pm.

777 detours to Learmonth

recognition of ADF members who deployed on different operations.

“Learning from the past, it seeks to provide our people with the potential to attain more visible recognition through the prospect of attaining multiple awards of the OSM through deployments to differ-ent operations with unique ribbons,” MAJGEN Fogarty said.

“Those who undertake additional periods of qualifying service on the same operation will, where appro-priate, receive an accumulated ser-vice device, in the form of a numeral similar to those issued by the United Nations.”

MAJGEN Fogarty said it was important to note the new medal had no bearing on ADF members cur-rently deployed.

“They will continue to receive the same benefits and medals they currently do,” he said.

Separate recogni t ion for Defence civilians will now be available through a civilian vari-ant of the new medal, which will be available to those who are employed as part of a declared operation under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982.

Eligible civilian personnel will receive a medal of the same design but will receive a unique civilian service ribbon to differentiate it from the ADF variant.

The Directorate of Honours and Awards has requested that ADF personnel or Defence civil-ians who believe they might be eligible for the medal not apply for recognition until eligibility criteria and administrative processes are finalised.

Air Force will develop a con-solidated list of eligible person-nel for submission to Defence Honours and Awards. Further information will be provided as soon as it becomes available.

For updates on the OSM, visit the Defence Honours and Awards website at www.defence.gov.au/medals

Wider recognition Wider recognition with new medalwith new medal

MISSION READY: Aircrew on the job during Operation Resolute. Photo: LACW Kylie Gibson

ON OP RESOLUTE: A military working dog handler guards an Orion at RAAF Learmonth; below left, aircraft technicians monitor an Orion during start-up at RAAF Base Darwin. Photos: LAC Mark Friend (main) and CPL Glen McCarthy

Criteria for border protection ops

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TWO Orions from 10 and 11SQNs provided anti-submarine and anti-sur-face warfare and maritime surveillance missions at Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2012 (RIMPAC) in Hawaii.

Two 2SQN Wedgetail aircraft, crews and support personnel also par-ticipated.

RIMPAC, the world’s largest mar-itime exercise involving 22 nations, began on June 27 and was due to finish on August 2.

The exercise practises the skills of personnel as well as testing the aircraft in an international environment.

The Orions operated out of the Marine Corps Base at Kaneohe Bay, working alongside Patrol Squadron VP-4 (call sign Skinny Dragons) and Patrol Squadron VP-47 (call sign the Golden Swordsmen).

The Australian team, along with Canadian, Japanese, South Korean and New Zealand maritime patrol aircraft detachments, were well supported by their US counterparts.

92WG RIMPAC Detachment Commander WGCDR John Grime said it had been fantastic effort by the team of maintenance, aircrew and sup-port staff.

“The opportunity to work with our international counterparts and the Royal Australian Navy improves our high-end warfare fighting skills and in particular our anti submarine warfare skills,” WGCDR Grime said.

“We cannot achieve this level of intensity and complexity at any exer-cise other than RIMPAC.”

The maintenance crew had their work cut out for them, loading up to 84 sonobuoys for an anti-submarine warfare mission and conducting pre-flight checks to ensure the aircraft were ready for aircrew to launch on time.

In flight, the aircraft was controlled by a ship-borne aircraft control unit, and once on station, the crews were tasked to conduct anti-submarine or anti-surface warfare by one or many surface vessels taking part in the sea phase of RIMPAC.

Aircraft maintainer SGT David Anson, who worked at the coalface in ensuring the aircraft was maintained correctly and ready to go for each mis-sion, said the schedule was busy.

“There are lots of moving parts to coordinate in order to get the aircraft ready on time,” SGT Anson said.

“It is a great opportunity to see how other nations do business and to improve our practices and help other nations as well.”

The Wedgetail provided battles-pace management at RIMPAC, spe-cifically in the roles of offensive and defensive counter-air, maritime strike

and interdiction, dynamic targeting, air-to-air refuelling and joint person-nel recovery.

As well as the aircraft, 2SQN deployed 63 members, comprising aircrew, operations support, mainte-nance and Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit personnel.

LOADING UP: Aircraft maintainer CPL Chris Whyte passes sonobuoys to LAC Ben Dangerfield, both of 11SQN, in preparation for the next Orion mission at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii during RIMPAC.

BUSY SCHEDULE: Above, aircraft maintainers conduct post-flight checks on an Orion; left, aircraft on the flightline at Kaneohe Bay.

Photos: PO Ollie Garside

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FLTLT Cath Friend and Eamon Hamilton

THREE 77SQN Hornets pro-vided a fitting welcome to the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) on July 26 when they escorted four Sukhoi Su-30 Flanker jets into RAAF Base Darwin for the start of Exercise Pitch Black 2012.

It is the first time the TNI AU has participated in Pitch Black, which is the largest and most intense exercise on the RAAF calendar.

The Indonesians have joined Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, and the US in the Top End for the biennial Large Force employment exercise, which began on July 27 and will end on August 17.

Along with Indonesian Flankers, a number of new air-craft will participate in this year’s exercise, including the debut of Singapore’s F-15SG Eagle and Gulfstream G550 Conformal Airborne Early Warning aircraft.

This year’s Pitch Black will also feature the debut appearance of the RAAF’s Super Hornet, Wedgetail, and KC-30A tanker.

Welcome to Pitch Black

Elsewhere, the RAAF will operate its King Air 350, Hawk 127 Lead-in fighter, AP-3C Orion, C-130J and, for the final time in its career, the C-130H Hercules.

The Royal Thai Air Force will employ its F-16s, while the US Marine Corps has brought F/A-18s and KC-130J tankers and Singapore have also returned F-16s and KC-135 tankers to the exercise.

Up to 94 aircraft will battle it out between ‘blue’ and ‘red’ forc-es, supported by more than 2200 personnel, with crews flying mis-sions at training ranges across the Northern Territory out of RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal.

Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Anthony Grady said this year’s Pitch Black would be one of the most fast-paced exercises ever staged in Australia.

“I am confident that it will prove to be both exhilarating and professionally challenging for all those involved,” he said.

“The aim of Pitch Black is to exercise international forces in the planning and execution of large-scale offensive counter air opera-tions and counter-land operations

in a coalition environment against a capable adversary force,” he said.

Aircrew and maintenance personnel were welcomed to the exercise by GPCAPTs Michael Kitcher and Joe Iervasi on July 27, and at the time of going to print, the first missions were scheduled to launch on July 30.

Further coverage of Exercise Pitch Black will feature in coming editions.

WE’RE WITH YOU: Looking down from the cockpit of a 77SQN F/A-18, two other squadron Hornets fly alongside four TNI AU Sukhoi Su-30 Flanker jets which arrived in Darwin for Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: SGT Shane Gidall

GREETINGS: WGCDR Max Merritt, of ACG, welcomes Kolonel Agus Munandar, the commander of the TNI AU detachment, to RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: FSGT John Carroll

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DARK clouds, heavy rain and the threat of a typhoon didn’t dampen the spirits of the 10SQN Orion crew that travelled to Japan to participate in Exercise Nichi Gou Trident from June 2-11.

The heavy weather on arrival also didn’t overshadow the warm wel-come provided by host squadron VP-5 (fixed wing maritime patrol) of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

The Orion, operated by Crew Five and supported by 11SQN maintenance personnel and elements of 92WG, joined US and Japanese forces at Naha in Okinawa for the exercise.

For eight days, the 10SQN crew participated in a series of anti-subma-rine warfare (ASW) exercises with JMSDF Orions, and Japanese and United States Navy (USN) submarines.

Despite the threat posed by Typhoon Mawar throughout the exercise, the JMSDF cancelled only one mission.

CO 10SQN WGCDR Mick Jansen was delighted with the outcomes achieved.

“For both 10SQN and 92WG, Nichi Gou Trident has been an extremely successful deployment,” WGCDR Jansen said.

“All the other missions resulted in excellent ASW training for the crews in waters not often visited by our AP-3Cs.

“The experience we gained will assist in maintaining our core capabili-ties and consolidate our already strong working relationships with both the JMSDF and USN.

“The exercise also provided 92WG members with a rare opportunity to experience first-hand the similarities and differences of a foreign maritime patrol aircraft squadron.”

WGCDR Jansen said the success of Nichi Gou Trident was largely due to the enthusiastic and helpful support provided by the members of VP-5.

“JMSDF personnel were willing to pass on their wealth of local knowl-edge to ensure safe and effective opera-

GREETINGS: JMSDF members of the host squadron, VP-5, wait to welcome the 92WG crew to Naha, Japan, after landing at the base. Photo: WGCDR Michael Jansen

Sub hunting Sub hunting in Japanin Japan

SKY VIEW: This submarine, with its periscopes raised, was sighted by a 10SQN AP-3C Orion during Exercise Nichi Gou Trident. Below right, a JMSDF Orion in flight during a combined ASW mission off Japan.

Photos: WOFF Mark Koschenow

tions in the Japanese operating areas,” he said.

The Orion and its crew also paid a visit to the US Marine Corps base Futenma on Okinawa on June 7.

The visit was made to exercise a United Nations right of freedom of movement through US establishments

on the Japanese islands. The US per-sonnel who welcomed the Australians were enthusiastic hosts.

“Every effort was made to make the crew comfortable and aware of the rarity of a visit from an aircraft exer-cising the UN freedom of movement,” WGCDR Jansen said.

For both 10SQN and 92WG, Nichi Gou Trident has been an extremely successful deployment.

– CO 10SQN WGCDR Mick Jansen

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THE pilot at the controls of the Hawk 127 Lead-in fighter when it clocked 78WG’s 75,000th flying hour has two reasons to celebrate.

FLTLT Daniel Truitt has also been endorsed as the new Hawk 127 Lead-In-Fighter low level aerobatics and dis-play pilot at 76SQN at RAAF Base Williamtown.

The 75,000th flying hour came in late June at Williamtown during a flying display and FLTLT Truitt was understandably thrilled to be involved in the historical moment.

“In addition to the 75,000-hour mark, it was also the 4000th flying hour for 76SQN for the financial year,” FLTLT Daniel Truitt said.

“I was very proud to be part of such a wonderful milestone for the Hawk fleet and all the personnel that keep them in the air.”

76SQN CO WGCDR Chris Hake added his congratulations.

“Four thousand flying hours this year has been a remarkable team effort from 76SQN and is testament to the hard work and quality of the squadron maintainers,” WGCDR Hake said.

On July 10, 78WG, Tactical Fighter Support Project Office Lead in Fighter Logistics Management Unit and BAE Systems recognised the achievement of the Hawk 127 fleet at a function.

OC 78WG GPCAPT Bernard Grealy said the achievement represent-ed the collaborative efforts of the Air Force, Defence Materiel Organisation and BAE Systems personnel in sup-porting the aircraft.

The Air Force ordered 33 Hawks in June 1997, 12 of which were produced in Britain and 21 in Australia.

They were divided between 76SQN

Hawk pilot’s double joy

at Williamtown and 79SQN at RAAF Base Pearce.

The Hawk is used as a fast-jet conversion aircraft for pilots going

on to the Classic Hornet or the Super Hornet.

It also provides vital maritime strike, air defence and close air support training to the Army and Navy.

The Hawk also has a through-life support program that has been designed for 25 years service.

Its design allows for system upgrades to be incorporated, reflecting evolving training requirements.

On July 10, Defence Minister Stephen Smith and Defence Materiel Minister Jason Clare announced the signing of a $25 million contract with BAE Systems in Britain to upgrade the Hawk 127.

Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Anthony Grady said: “The upgrade of the Hawk 127 systems will also allow Operational Conversion stu-dents to successfully convert not just into our current platforms but also into our future platforms including the F-35A.”

FLTLT Truitt can probably expect to take the Hawk 127 to about 10 events, such as the Avalon air show, in his new role.

He joined the Air Force in 2003 and graduated from 2 Flying Training School at RAAF Base Pearce in 2005.

He flew F/A-18s for 75SQN at RAAF Base Tindal before completing his instructor’s course last year.

FINEST HOUR: FLTLT Daniel Truitt who was at the controls when the Hawk’s 75,000 flying hour was brought up.

Photo: CPL Mark McConnell

MILESTONE: GPCAPT Bernie Grealy signs the commemorative certificate, pictured left, in recognition of the completion of 75,000 flying hours by the BAE Systems Hawk 127, flanked by General Manager Fast Jet Support Andrew Gresham, left, and Director Lead-In-fighter Logistic Management Unit Richard Weston. Photos: CPL Mark McConnell

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9August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF News

Simone Liebelt

MINDY Woods may not have become Australia’s next MasterChef, but she was certainly a winner to proud dad, WOFF Gary Woods, of RAAF Base Tindal.

The Air Force cook of 37 years was thrilled that Mindy, a physiotherapist from Queensland, had made it into the top four on Network Ten’s MasterChef Australia program.

And he wasn’t the only one.“Knowing Mindy was a RAAFie’s

daughter sparked a lot of interest within the Air Force community,” WOFF Woods said. “She had a big following while on MasterChef.”

Mindy was chosen as one of the top 24 amateur chefs among 7000 hopefuls who auditioned for the show, which ran over 12 weeks.

When the program began, WOFF Woods was deployed at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates as part of Combat Support Unit 6.

“I would always update the execs at the morning brief on Mindy’s progress on the show,” he said. “When I returned to Australia, current and former Air Force friends that we have made over the many years would make comments on Facebook supporting Mindy, and I also received heaps of emails and phone calls.

“We were really thankful for all the support.”

Mindy was the last contestant to be eliminated from the show before the finale, which aired on July 24.

“We knew Mindy would do well as she had the personality, attitude and determination to do as well as she did,” WOFF Woods said.

“When she was eliminated, we were disappointed but happy for her at the same time. For her to come fourth out of 7000 people who auditioned was a great achievement.

“My wife and I and all of our fam-ily and friends are extremely proud of

Mindy, and even though she didn’t win, in our eyes she is still a winner and can only go forward from here.”

In the lead-up to the final week of competition, WOFF Woods made a sur-prise visit to the MasterChef kitchen as a special family guest.

He said taking part in the episode, which aired on July 19, was an excit-ing experience, especially when Mindy cooked the dish of the day in his honour.

“Mindy cooked Crispy Skin Duck with Lychees and Red Curry Sauce, and when I tasted it (along with the judges) on the set, I thought to myself ‘the fla-vours in this dish are amazing’,” he said.

“Then standing in front of the judges at the end of the day waiting on their decision was a nerve-racking experience; you could cut the air with a knife. When Mindy was given the dish of the day and put into the top six, I was the proudest dad. My wife Brenda, who in the back-ground, was the proudest mum as well.”

WOFF Woods said a family posting to RAAF Base Butterworth in 1991-92 influenced Mindy’s love of Asian cui-sine, which featured prominently in her cooking on the show.

“Living in Butterworth made us aware of the fantastic food available in Malaysia and Thailand and we all fell in love with it,” he said. “Whenever we are together we always cook up curry with Rotis and Char Keow Teow, which is one of our favourites.”

He said they had always loved cook-ing as a family.

“My wife and I taught all three of our children at a young age to cook vari-ous types of food, with Asian being our favourite.

“Now I guess it’s our turn to get a few cooking lessons from Mindy. We’ve already received some great tips and recipes from her since she’s been on MasterChef, and we can’t wait to see where her culinary skills will take her in the future.”

Tindal cook proud of daughter’s MasterChef journey

GUEST CELEBRITY: WOFF Gary Woods with his daughter Mindy on the set of Network Ten’s MasterChef Australia, where he made a surprise appearance during one of the shows. Photo courtesy Network TenIN SERVICE: Left inset, WOFF Woods (far left) enjoying a meal with colleagues at Al Minhad Air Base while deployed there late last year. Photo: CPO Damian Pawlenko

You’re still ill a winner, Mindy

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10 August 2, 2012RCEAIR FPacific Partnership

FLGOFF Jessica Dagger took the idea of ‘wellbeing’ to a new level by seeking to find out what is wrong with local water wells while deployed on Pacific Partnership 2012.

On the remote Indonesian island of Talaud, in North Sulawesi, FLGOFF Dagger and her team investigated why the local well water had become undrinkable.

“Currently there are a number of wells on the island which the local residents do not drink, and so they are only drinking bottled water,” she said.

“As this is not a sustainable water source, our team of US Air Force and non-government organisation special-ists and I have been doing sanitary surveys and water quality analysis on

these wells to try to determine what the problem is.”

FLGOFF Dagger, of 1 Expeditionary Health Squadron’s Townsville Detachment, is among the 41-strong ADF contingent serving aboard the US Navy hos-pital ship USNS Mercy as part Pacific Partnership 2012.

After collecting samples, FLGOFF Dagger took them back to the ship’s laboratory to study to try and determine the causes. In the meantime, Pacific Partnership engi-neers installed sand filtration water treatment systems for the wells near the hospital and police station so the effectiveness of the treatment sys-tems could be further assessed.

SURGEON SQNLDR David Stoney joined the reserve eight years ago. At 67 now, he wishes he had joined long ago.

“The military do things very well,” he said. “The infrastructure they set up on deployment is very good and they also provide care beyond just medical care.

“You see different kinds of injuries in war zones, and on peacekeeping and humanitarian relief operations you deal with local populations where things go untreated and are far more progressed than you would see in Australia.

“As a result you can make a real dif-ference to the lives of people beyond your own community.”

SQNLDR Stoney has been serv-ing in Vietnam as a member of Pacific Partnership 2012.

Back in Australia he is the surgical

director for Maroondah Hospital in east-ern Melbourne and the director for breast and endocrine surgery for Eastern Health (Melbourne).

“I was welcomed into the Air Force and I’ve had the opportunity to serve in Afghanistan, East Timor and the Solomon Islands,” he said.

“One of the great things about my military service has been its impact on how I approach emergency surgery man-agement back home.

“After managing trauma in Afghanistan it becomes easier to manage it in Australia.

“It helps you to organise your mind, so when you come to deal with severe cases back in Australia the processes become automatic.”

DENTIST FLTLT Kate Aitken has been working at free regional dental clinics as part of Pacific Partnership 2012’s rolling Medical Civic Aid Project sched-ule around the city of Vinh in northern Vietnam.

“When we first arrived at a vil-lage for a five-day clinic the people we saw were hesitant to have their teeth extracted,” FLTLT Aitken, of 3 Expeditionary Health Squadron, RAAF Base Richmond, said.

“However, after a couple of days we got more and more people turning up and willing to accept treatment.

“It seemed that news spreads around each community by word of mouth that we are providing pain-free dentistry.”

FLTLT Aitken said the Pacific Partnership experience had allowed her to vastly broaden her dental experience through the access to a different group of patients.

“It’s good to work with the locals

and to do some oral surgery that we don’t get to do much of at home,” she said.

“There we do more preventative dentistry because everyone has annual dental checkups, so their teeth don’t get to the level of decay we are seeing here.

“Here we’re seeing extremely decayed teeth that have broken down to the gums and are unable to be restored.

“We are also seeing a high preva-lence of gum disease.

“Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of opportunities within these communi-ties to see a dentist, and there are some dietary issues caused by high levels of sugar in their food.

“There’s also a general lack of oral hygiene awareness, so we provide all our patients a teeth-care pack [tooth-brush, toothpaste and dental floss] and oral hygiene instructions plus encour-agement to see a dentist more regularly in the future.”

Checking health of water too

AIR FORCE HELP: Top, FLTLT Katherine Aitken examines a Vietnamese boy’s teeth; far left, FLGOFF Jessica Dagger; and SQNLDR David Stoney. Photos: FSGT Craig Sharp

Dentists benefit from word-of-mouth effect

Surgeon, 67, sees benefits

MAJ Cameron Jamieson talks to some of the Air Force contributors on board USNS Mercy.

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11August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF Air Force Improvement

Eamon Hamilton

AIR Lift Group’s (ALG’s) Air Mobility Control Centre (AMCC) is maximising the use of its platforms by transitioning from a ‘platform-based’ scheduling approach to an ‘effects-based’ outcome for meeting tasking requirements.

Ac t ing Di rec to r o f AMCC WGCDR James Hogg said instead of customers requesting a specific aircraft type, a request for an effect would be made to the AMCC.

“We will then, in turn, determine the most effective and efficient means to satisfy the user’s requirement,” he said.

WGCDR Ken Roberts, of the Air Mobility Improvement Program, said his team was working closely with the AMCC on how it would coordinate the ALG fleet into the future.

“AMCC is akin to advanced problem solving, where there is finite amount of aircraft and capac-ity to meet a customer’s requirement to reach their destination by a certain date,” WGCDR Roberts said.

“We’re aiming to achieve a force multiplier effect so that we can better utilise our assets.

“AMCC staff have been engaged and are actively committed to this reform – they will see the results played out before them as this organi-sation owns this process.”

With the introduction of C-17A, KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, and C-27J Spartan aircraft, the ongo-

ing success of AMCC will require improvements within its own organi-sation and planning to meet tasking requirements.

“When the KC-30A declares initial operational capability later this year, the AMCC is expecting a 50 per cent increase in its tasking capacity alone for that platform,” WGCDR Roberts said.

He said to meet future demands, AMCC was process-mapping its busi-ness and consulting with its primary customers to determine user require-ments.

That includes the Air and Space Operations Centre, Joint Movements Group, Army and Headquarters Air Command.

“Educating AMCC’s customers will lead to improvements,” WGCDR Roberts said. “If a customer books a C-17A and only 50 per cent of people show up to be moved, then this task could have been met with a C-130 air-craft.

“We will place more emphasis on the Air Load Coordination section in the early planning phases instead of in the final planning phases to help accomplish this.”

Straightforward fixes, like review-ing standing instructions and rational-ising of forms used by AMCC to book services to request air mobility, are also being carried out.

The result will be the streamlining of AMCC’s work processes so it can sup-port aircraft which are larger and more capable than their predecessors.

Finding right fit for job

EFFECTIVE PLATFORM: Under a new scheduling approach, the AMCC will determine what aircraft type customers need based on their requirements. For example, if a C-17A was booked to transfer troops to an exercise, but only half the troops showed up on the day, a C-130 would have been the more appropriate choice of transport. Pictured above are Army troops being loaded on to a C-17A at RAAF Base Townsville, and left, members working in the Air Mobility Control Centre at RAAF Base Richmond. Above photo: LAC Michael Green

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12 13RCEAIR FFCentrepiece August 2, 2012

Exercise Precision Support took Townsville by storm through air-land integration, FLTLT Dave Wood and FLTLT Nicholas O’Connor report.

M ORE than 350 Air Force members and months of planning came together to ensure the suc-

cess of Combat Support Group’s (CSG) Exercise Precision Support 12-1.

Held from July 3-28 in Townsville, the focus of the exer-

cise was to provide airbase opera-tions support for Precision Red, a

deployment preparation exercise for C-130J Hercules crews.

Airbase and air operations elements worked together

to provide support, while also highlighting the essential requirements

for air-land integration.Combat Support ele-

ments under the exercise title of Air Operations Task Unit 006 established airbases at three airfields – Benning, Samuel Hill and Williamson – to enable C-130J aircraft to conduct mission rehearsal and aircrew validation activi-ties.

Task unit commander SQNLDR Gary Mott said an enormous team effort was required by all personnel to raise the airbase to an operational standard capable of receiving C-130 aircraft.

“Deploying 350 airbase operators to three locations and establishing a headquarters element at RAAF Base Townsville required detailed planning,” SQNLDR Mott said.

“The weather presented significant challenges for our members in the field and back at the base. However, I was impressed with how everyone handled themselves in the trying exercise condi-tions.”

Before the tactical air insertions into Benning airfield, 1 Airfield Defence Squadron (1AFDS) and 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron (ECSS) deployed personnel to Townsville and conducted reception, staging, on-forwarding and induction training.

Behind the scenes at Townsville

CPL Mia Wolley, of 1EHS, a medical assistant who is studying for her Bachelor of Nursing degree, provided assistance at the base medical section during Exercise Precision Support.

FLGOFF Hannah Taino, a supply officer with 1AFDS, provided equipment support, such as transporting supplies with a forklift during the exercise.

AC Martin Hannelly, of 27SQN, repaired a wide variety of equipment during the exercise. He works at the Mechanical Equipment Operational Maintenance Squadron on base.

LACW Donna Hayes, of 1EHS, used her dental hygienist skills to assess members’ dental health during Precision Support.

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PERSONNEL from the US Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force joined their RAAF Ex-peditionary Combat Support counterparts for Exercise Precision Support 12–1.

The international guests were present to observe, and in some cases partici-pate, in CSG’s critical exercise, which focused on providing airbase operations for the successful and efficient conduct of Precision Red, C-130J Hercules Air Operations.

Airbase Operations Support Task Unit Commander SQNLDR Gary Mott hailed said the exercise’s international flavour added another dimension to the exercise.

“Sharing ideas and experiences with our international colleagues presented some great opportunities,” SQNLDR Mott said.

1AFDS inserted personnel first and cleared Benning Airfield. Three days later, 381ECSS took control of the secured location and started establish-ing a minor airbase.

“To ensure exercise authenticity, Benning airfield was under a non-permissive environment with an opposi-tion force in place, making the task of establishing the airbase more complex,” SQNLDR Mott said.

To the south of Benning airfield in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area, 322ECSS and 382ECSS activated Williamson and Samuel Hill airfields, completing the three operational air-bases.

SQNLDR Mott said airbase opera-tions consisted of 10 functions, each having specific areas of responsibility.

“In the early stages of establish-ment, airfield engineering tempo is the highest, ensuring electrical reticulation, plumbing and plant operating require-

ments for the establishment of working and living accommodation facilities are provided,” he said.

“Individually, each CSG employ-ment group performed an important role in achieving overall airbase opera-tions.”

He said establishing the airbase was only one step in the exercise.

“Sustaining the airbase operational capability consistently to maintain the air operations requires ongoing air land integration,” he said.

“Air land integration was one of the main focuses of the exercise and work-ing seamlessly with the air operations personnel ensures we mutually comple-ment each other’s efforts resulting in effective air power generation.”

Before starting full air operations, aircrew conducted familiarisation flights into each location to ensure all airbase operations were functional and ready to receive aircraft.

STRATEGIC HELP: Clockwise from top, members of 1AFDS at Benning airfield; Operations HQ for Exercise Precision Support; medical staff at the Expeditionary Health Services tent; military working dogs and their handlers conduct a survey of the hardstand and static aircraft. Photos: CPLs Casey Smith and Glen McCarthy

ALLIES: Royal Canadian Air Force SGT Gregory Juste with SGT Eddie Westney, of 1AFDS. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

FOCUSED: From top, LACW Abigail Murray, of 23SQN, updates the vehicle board; intelligence Officer FLTLT Robbie Harlon, of 87SQN, guards Benning airfield; LAC Shamus Marson, of 1AFDS, moves to a defensive position. Photos: CPL Casey Smith and LAC Glynn Jones

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14 August 2, 2012RCEAIR FNews

SQNLDR James Badgery

THE latest air combat officer (ACO)fast-jet graduates were exposed to a range of conditions when 76SQN conducted an around-Australia navigation exercise over four days in May.

FLGOFF Jono Wilson and FLTLT Will Powell completed their final preparations for ACO conver-sion on to the Super Hornet by plan-

ning and navigating two Hawk 127 Lead-In fighters across a range of bases around Australia.

The pilots conducting the mission were RAF exchange pilot FLTLT Glyn Williams and 76SQN CO WGCDR Chris Hake.

Extensive planning was under-taken by the maintenance, logistics and administrative teams before the deployment.

This included the decision to provide a small maintenance team at RAAF Base Darwin to mitigate against potential unserviceabilities.

The mission flew from RAAF Base Williamtown to RAAF Bases Amberley, Townsville, Tindal, Darwin, and Edinburgh – via Uluru – before transiting back to Williamtown.

Despite meeting the odd chal-

lenge along the way, the aircraft arrived back safely within the time allocated and showcased the reliabil-ity and overall serviceability of the Hawk 127. The ACO graduates flew nearly 16 hours on each aircraft, over the four days of flying.

FLTLT Williams said it was a memorable experience.

“It was a great opportunity to see one of the most amazing coun-

tries in the world, and some of the most rugged terrain you want to be flying a single engine jet aircraft over,” he said.

The ACOs now look forward to greater confidence with conversion to the Super Hornet at 6SQN, but know nothing comes easy.

“It’s been very tough for previous courses and we know it is no differ-ent for us,” FLGOFF Wilson said.

Touching Touching base base across across nationnation WHERE TO NEXT? The sun sets on one

of the Hawk-127s at RAAF Base Tindal as the ACOs from 76SQN prepare for another mission. Photo: FLGOFF Jono Wilson

Charity runnersSUNNYFIELD, a not-for-profit char-ity which supports more than 1700 people with a disability across NSW, is looking for volunteers to run the City2Surf fun run in Sydney on August 12. Sunnyfield has secured 10 gold charity runner places for the race. Secure your entry for a minimum donation of $250 and then pledge to raise at least $750. Former CDF ACM Angus Houston is a patron of Sunnyfield. For more information, contact Julieri De Florio on (02) 9412 8653 or j.deflorio@sunnyfield.org.au

Motorcyclists’ callCANBERRA Defence Riders are prepared to coordinate a combined Defence group interested in par-ticipating in an annual NSW and Victorian Police National Wall2Wall

remembrance motorcycle ride to the National Police Memorial in Canberra on September 15. The ride is a char-ity event, intended to highlight the ultimate sacrifice of police in seeking to protect the community since the earliest days of the colony of NSW. Interested personnel can email Paul Brealey, Canberra Defence Riders Coordinator, at paul.brealey@defence.gov.au. Further details and registra-tion information can be found at www.walltowallride.com

Reunion for 2SDTHE No. 2 Stores Depot reunion will be held at Rosnay Golf Club in Auburn, Sydney, on November 10. Cost will be $25 a person. Anyone previously involved in the unit is invited to attend. Full details, including the payment procedure, is outlined at www.facebook.com/groups/Ex2SD/. For more information, contact Bill Murray, Secretary of the DFWA (ACT Branch) at wrmurray@tpg.com.au

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15August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF News

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CPL Mark Doran

EIGHTEEN members of the Air Force Band will perform as part of the ADF Band at the 2012 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

They have joined forces with members of the Navy Band and Army Band Corps to form a 54-member strong ADF Band.

As part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II, the ADF musicians will take their places among more than 1000 musi-cians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers from four continents at the 62nd Tattoo at Edinburgh from August 3-25.

The invitation to Scotland will be the first time a permanent forces ADF Band has performed overseas at this event.

The musicians will have a six minute and 40 second spot, during which time they will sing, play and dance to music iconic to Australia – from colonial times through to pop songs and rock and roll by Kylie Minogue and AC/DC.

Contingent Commander LTCOL Gordon Lambie, Director of Music–Army, said music celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Man from Snowy River would also feature.

“This is a major contribution from the ADF for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in one of the world’s most rec-ognised public arenas,” he said.

“Performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is the pin-nacle of a Defence musician’s career and something we all strive and hope for.”

LACW Sandra Gudze, who plays the clarinet, said there was definitely a culture difference between the bands.

“Even with the way some people speak and especially with some of the terms the sailors use,” she said.

“I have enjoyed training with the other bands preparing for this event as everyone is prepared to put in their best effort.

“My favourite part of the perfor-mance is near the end where we get all these intricate moves happening together.”

SGT Ian Hodgson, who plays the French horn, said the Tattoo was his hat-trick as an ADF musician perform-ing overseas as he had played for the Changing of the Guard in London and at Gallipoli for Anzac Day cer-emonies.

“After 31 years as an Air Force musician it will be a good finish,” he said.

“Strangely enough, I am enjoying the audience par-ticipation part of the show where we will be going into the crowd and getting them involved.”

Scotland, here we comeMusicians combine for Tattoo

AUSSIE FLAVOUR: Above, LACW Sandra Gudze gets into the groove at rehearsal.

PART OF LARGE CAST: Left, WOFF Attilio Celata.

CASTLE ROCK: The ADF Band gave two performances at Russell Offices in Canberra on July 20, above, shortly before leaving for Scotland. Spectators were asked to imagine one building as Edinburgh castle, which will be the backdrop for the Tattoo. For those who just couldn’t imagine it, here’s the real thing at right. Band photos: CPL Mark Doran

FINAL BOW SGT Ian Hodgson.

16 August 2, 2012RCEAIR FFNews

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INSTEAD of chilling out on their school holidays, a bunch of teenag-ers spent 10 days in Darwin last month preparing to become cadet leaders.

Their tuition covered leadership, drill, fieldcraft skills and instruc-tional technique.

On July 7, their hard work became worthwhile when the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) welcomed the graduation of 21 cadets in the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Course at RAAF Base Darwin.

The cadets, from 8WG and 6WG, are from the Northern Territory and South Australia.

Aged between 14 and 18 years, they will now be eligible for promo-tion to the rank of cadet corporal once they return to their home squadrons.

Detachment Commander SQNLDR (AAFC) Heath Fulton said the course was the first step in the leadership ladder for cadets.

“These young Australians have been presented with many challeng-es throughout the last 10 days, build-ing their self-discipline, resilience, and initiative,” SQNLDR (AAFC) Fulton said. “They now have the foundation skills in leading junior cadets when they return to their squadrons.”

Casuarina Senior College student LCDT Natalie Jones, who hopes to one day fly Super Hornets, said the graduation ceremony was awesome.

“We learnt various team-building

and leadership skills; these are opportunities we wouldn’t get any-where else. The week really built my confidence and it was loads of fun,” Natalie said.

Course dux LCDT Michael Ninneman originally from a town

near Johannesburg, South Africa, moved to Australia just over a year ago and is aspiring to join the Air Force as an airfield engineer, once he gains his citizenship in a few years.

“The Corporals’ course devel-

Cadets answer call

FUTURE LEADERS: Above, course dux LCDT Michael Ninneman cuts the cake in celebration with his fellow course mates after their graduation parade, right, at RAAF Base Darwin.

THREE teenagers became the first Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) to participate in the Schools Aerospace Challenge in the United Kingdom from July 17-30.

CSGT Eden Maynard, of Brisbane, CSGT Tiffany Chapman, of Melbourne, and LCDT Dillon McGrath, of Canberra, were selected for the challenge during a rigorous training program held at RAAF Base Amberley in April. The cadets were assessed on their performance in a week of training, Defence industry visits and team presentations to a panel of senior officers.

During the challenge, which is run by the RAF and Cranfield University, partici-pating teams had to develop and present alternative solutions to the task of train-ing pilots to operate a remote piloted aerospace system, culminating in the presentation of their results to a panel of academics.

LCDT McGrath said it was an “amaz-ing opportunity to view companies and aerospace projects that very few people in the world get to see and to establish an interest in the aerospace industry”.

The program is supported by Defence Materiel Organisation's Industry Division, as part of their Skilling Australian Defence Industry Youth Engagement Program.

More on the AAFC’s involvement in the Schools Aerospace Challenge, including the results, will be published in a future edition.

Aussie trio challenged in UK comp

oped my confidence in teaching and leading younger cadets and also my initiative,” Michael said.

“We also had the opportunity to fire the F88 Austeyr at the indoor simulator range, so it wasn’t all just work.”

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17August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF News

Andrew Stackpool

TWELVE Aboriginal students aged between 16 and 18 received a greater appreciation of a possible future life and career in Air Force after attending a special four-day familiarisation pro-gram at RAAF Base Richmond from July 2-5.

The program was the inaugu-ral Indigenous Student Military Familiarisation Camp, a joint initiative between Air Force and the Booroowa Aviation project.

Booroowa Aviation is managed by the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation, an organisation which provides employment pathways for Aboriginal youth who are interested in aviation careers.

The students came from regional communities around NSW and flew to Richmond in a Booroowa Aviation air-craft, along with two indigenous men-tors.

Program leader WGCDR Barb Wells, of Air Force Workforce Diversity, said the program exposed the students to military aviation careers as well as life on an operational air base.

“The students participated in a wide range of activities, including a dem-

Simulating Simulating experienceexperience

onstration of military working dogs, a tour of the base fire section and a visit to the 22SQN ground defence training section,” WGCDR Wells said.

The students visited 37SQN and Aircraft Maintenance Flight where they joined maintenance crews work-ing on C-130 aircraft, as well as climb-ing aboard a Hercules during engine testing on the flightline.

Program sponsor DGPERS-AF AIRCDRE Bob Rodgers accompanied the students for the day at 37SQN, and Commander Air Lift Group AIRCDRE Gary Martin joined them for lunch at the Airmens’ Mess.

WGCDR Wells said day three proved most popular with the students.

“They visited 285SQN, where they spent time in the C-130H flight simula-tor,” she said.

“They rated the opportunity to ‘fly’ and ‘land’ the aircraft at a range of locations under different weather con-ditions as Number 1 on their course evaluation forms.”

During the evenings, the students were kept busy with a series of cultural activities led by Aboriginal elders who were specially invited for the purpose.

“The evening sessions provided the students an opportunity to reflect on how a career in military aviation, and

the requirement to work at a range of posting locations, could work in the context of their cultural obligations,” WGCDR Wells said.

The program concluded with a pres-entation by Defence Force Recruiting about the range of entry pathways and career opportunities available.

Student Cristie Donovan, of Dapto High School, said the program “really

opened my eyes about possible jobs and a future in the Air Force”.

CLARIFICATION: On page 10 of the July 19 edition, it was incorrectly reported that indigenous students visited RAAF Base Richmond as part of the Defence Work Experience Program. They were actually part of the inaugural Indigenous Student Military Familiarisation Camp.

LOOKING AND LEARNING: Above, FLTLT Robert De Brito, a pilot from 285SQN, talks about the C-130H simulator while indigenous mentor Adam Brady takes to the controls and Nikitah Wilson watches. Right inset, AC Daniel Gomes, of 22SQN, supervises as students play with 12-week-old puppy Avanti. Photos: CPL Amanda Campbell

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TINDAL CHEER: Above, RAAF Base Tindal won the Northern Territory Defence/Government award for their efforts in raising $5,800 for the Leukaemia Foundation as part of the World’s Greatest Shave event. Tindal families cheer as the Leukaemia Foundation’s Community Relationships Manager, Roxy Morton-Owen (right), presents a certificate and trophy to Network Tindal Chairperson Amy Martin, who was instrumental in coordinating the event. Photo: SGT Shane GidallTOP ASOP: Left, LAC Andrew Gleave with an Airman of the Quarter award for his efforts as an ASOP with 1RSU. Photo: LACW Nicci Freeman

MEAO MECHANICS: Above, CPL Luke Boulton, who is with Combat Support Unit 7’s MEOMS section, works on an air-conditioning unit at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

Photo: CPL Mark Doran

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19August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF Personnel

DEPARTMENT of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) clients can now do business online with the launch of a new self-service portal.

MyAccount offers DVA clients a more immediate way of interacting with the department. With a regis-tration number, a computer and an internet connection, members can update contact details, view pay-ments and card information, view claims, apply for entitlements, book transport to medical appointments, lodge claims for travelling expenses on DVA medical visits, request replacement cards, and request forms, fact sheets and publications.

For more information, contact DVA on 1800 173 858 or go to www.myac-count.dva.gov.au

DVA services go online

Deanna Nott

APPROACHING the signing of the 600th “Supportive Employer” has given the Reserve and Employer Support Division (CRESD) reason to celebrate.

The successful campaign – that encourages Australian employers to publicly declare their support for the nation’s reservists – was adapted by CRESD in 2009 from a similar pro-gram in the UK.

The UK program, coordinated by the Ministry of Defence’s Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers (SaBRE) organisation, has attracted almost 1500 supportive employers. Australia is rapidly catching up, with more than 550 featured on the new Defence Reserves Support website.

Head of CRESD MAJGEN Paul Brereton said it was a case of “why reinvent the wheel?”

“Given the SaBRE program was helping encourage widespread sup-port for reserve service in the UK, it was clear that Australia should follow suit,” MAJGEN Brereton said.

“We regularly share ideas and ini-tiatives with our international coun-terparts and this is a perfect example of how this liaison benefits us.”

RAAF Museum August 8: Battle of Amiens commemorative service, Melbourne Shrine.

RoulettesAugust 9: RAAF Museum interactive flying day, Point Cook.

Air Force BandJuly 15-August 26: Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scotland.

Air Force events

He said the program had come a long way since it began three years ago.

“Through the hard work of our State and Territory Defence Reserves support staff, the Defence Reserves Support Council and its committees, as well as a dedicated communication campaign, we have moved from 90 supportive employers to almost 600,” he said.

“As a reservist of 37 years stand-ing, I know that the support that I have enjoyed from my employers, and the understanding of my family, has been critical to my ability to serve in the reserves.”

Jill Woods, Chief Executive Officer of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, is one of Australia’s most vocal business leaders in encouraging organisations to sign up as a Supportive Employer.

Chair of the Defence Reserves Support Council Western Sydney Committee, Ms Woods said she would use every opportunity within the business and wider communities to encourage employers to sign on to the program.

“I am totally committed to the cause of promoting the Supportive Employer concept at every opportu-

nity to business people because the benefits are enormous to both par-ties,” she said.

“It only takes a very short time when talking with and observing reservists in action to realise the potential their continuing Defence program of training and upskilling can offer their employers back in the

workplace. They are focused and dis-ciplined thinkers and leaders. They know teamwork is critical.”

For more information on the program, or the benefits of reserve service, call 1800 803 485, or to view the list of Supportive Employers, visit defencereservessupport.gov.au

Nearly 600 Nearly 600 in support in support

AMBASSADORS: Chief Executive Officer of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, Jill Woods, with Defence Reserves Support Regional Manager Western Sydney, SQNLDR Del Gaudry.

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ADF members may no longer be covered in all the circumstances that they once were under their personal insurance policies.

The ADF Financial Services Consumer Council has reminded personnel to check that their poli-cies are the best for them and their families and has outlined some important points.

What cover does Defence provide if I am injured or die?

Defence covers ADF mem-bers and their families through the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme (MRCS). The military superannuation scheme also provides spouse benefits on the death of a member and there are invalidity benefits that are payable to members who satisfy the requirements set out in the rules that apply to the military superannuation schemes.

How can personal insurance cover me?

A good way of working out

whether you need extra personal insurance is to have a look at what you would be entitled to under the MRCS and your superannuation scheme, and then work out what your dependants would need, each year, to maintain their current lifestyle.

What should I look out for with personal insurance?

You should make sure you understand the policy’s validity in a war zone or in war-like activity. These are called “war exclusions”, but they can apply more widely than just in war. Even if you are applying for a new insurance policy that does not contain these exclusions, the insurance company might not agree to accept you or might place conditions on you because of the nature of your ADF duties, so ask questions about these issues before buying a policy.

According to the Australian Government Actuary, Asteron offers a life insurance policy called

Term Life that does not contain war exclusions or other related acceptance restrictions. However, the policy must be purchased before formal notice of deploy-ment. For more information, call Defence Health on 1800 335 425.

The actuary says Chartis (for-merly AIG) has released a new per-sonal injury and accidental death policy called D-Pax under which an option exists for ADF members to purchase limited “high-risk loca-tion cover”. Call Chartis on 1800 650 224 for more information.

If you own (or are propos-ing to buy) a different policy, the insurance company of your choice may cover you even if your policy contains conditions relat-ing to war, war-like or hazardous activities. But tell the insurer about your ADF duties and ask for writ-ten confirmation that you will be covered while on duty. Otherwise the insurer may deny cover to you and your family when you need it most.

What changes do I need to be aware of?

Last year, Chartis made a com-mercial decision to discontinue the Services Security Policy, the Injury and Accident Insurance, the Services Accident Insurance and On Guard policy, but allowed policyholders to keep their policies until August 2012. If this applies to you, consider alternative insurance.

Zurich’s Ezicover Term Life policy on life insurance, which was available through Navy Health, is no longer available to ADF mem-bers. However, if you are already a policyholder, coverage will con-tinue as long as you continue to pay the premium.

The above information should not be treated as personal advice. Members should carefully consider their specific needs and think about consulting an insurance company or a licensed financial adviser before making any decisions.

Changes to some commercial personal insurance policies may affect your cover

NOMINATIONS are now being sought for the 2012 Air Force Safety Awards (AFSA), which are designed to recognise the units and individuals that display an outstanding level of innovation and excellence in safety management.

The awards are applicable to all Air Force pro-gram personnel, including Defence civilians and Australian Air Force Cadets, and consist of the fol-lowing categories:➤ Category 1 – Best workplace health and wellbe-

ing program.➤ Category 2 – Leadership award for injury pre-

vention and management.➤ Category 3 – Best workplace health and safety

management system.➤ Category 4 – Best solution to an identified

workplace health and safety Issue.➤ Category 5A – Best individual contribution to

health and safety for an employee who does not have full-time OHS responsibilities.

➤ Category 5B – Best individual contribution to health and safety for an OHS practitioner.

➤ Category 6A – Rehabilitation and return to work award for an organisation.

➤ Category 6B – Rehabilitation and return to work award for an individual. CO-endorsed nominations are to reach the

respective wing headquarters safety adviser by August 31, wing-endorsed nominations are to reach the respective FEG Safety Adviser by September 14 and FEG-endorsed nominations are to reach the Air Command Safety Adviser for ACAUST (or DCOORD-AF for AFHQ nomination) by September 28.

All nominations must be completed and sub-mitted to the AFSA Selection Panel by October 19.

For further details and entry forms, see the Air Force Safety Website, or contact WOFF Rob Swanwick at DDAAFS on (02) 6128 7492 or robert.swanwick@defence.gov.au

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Help Air Force recognise its best in safety

CHANGES: If you have an insurance policy covering war-like service, make sure you’re still covered as some insurers have cancelled their policies covering military service. Photo: LS Paul Berry

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21August 2, 2012RCEAIR FF Health

HEALTHY teeth make you look and feel good, and excel-lent oral hygiene is one way of keeping a bright smile. It

means your teeth are clean, your gums are pink and you do not suffer from bad breath.

ADF members should also be vigilant with their dental health to ensure their operational readiness.

Personnel who are not dentally fit when they deploy are more likely to become non-battle casualties as a result of dental disease, which may require emergency treatment or evacuation.

Sioban Blaney-Brown, of the Russell Health Centre, recommends some simple steps that can make a big difference to oral health and overall well-being.

“Firstly, make sure you have regular dental check-ups,” Dr Blaney-Brown said.

“Secondly, have a good oral hygiene regime, brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and help prevent dental decay.

“Thirdly, eat a well-balanced diet limiting high sugar foods and soft drinks.

“There is no doubt that preventive care can help stop problems develop-ing and stop minor problems devel-oping into major ones. Taking good care of your oral health can be seen as a long term investment.”

Flossing daily is an integral part of good oral hygiene practice.

It is the only way to remove debris from between the teeth where toothbrushes cannot reach.

Without brushing and flossing the plaque left on the teeth can produce toxins that ultimately cause decay and gum disease.

Left untreated, gum disease can lead to more severe problems. Untreated decay can lead to root fill-ings or even extraction of teeth.

If your gums hurt or bleed while brushing or flossing, or you are expe-riencing persistent bad breath, see your dentist.

Early treatment is less painful, expensive and worrying than treating conditions that have been allowed to progress.

Dental hygienist Sarah Musial said she was an advocate of electric toothbrushes.

“Electric brushes have a smaller,

round head that you can manoeuvre to clean more effectively in those hard to reach areas,” Ms Musial said.

“They also encourage you to brush one tooth at a time without missing too many areas. Teeth should feel very smooth after brushing for at least two minutes.

“They really do make a huge dif-ference to the oral health of patients I see who are using them properly.”

If you experience sensitivity with your teeth, try toothpaste for sensi-tive teeth.

If the problem persists, see your dentist, as it may be an indication of a more serious condition, such as a cavity or a cracked tooth.

Ms Musial said she also recom-mended using toothpastes containing fluoride.

“It’s just a matter of finding a type of toothpaste which works for you and meets your requirements,” she said.

“Just check with your dentist to find out which is most appropriate for you.”

Eating a well-balanced diet gives your gums and teeth the important nutrients and minerals they need to stay strong and resist infections.

Dr Blaney-Brown advised limit-ing snacks between meals to reduce the frequency of acid attack on tooth structure.

EXPERT CARE: As dental professionals, dentist Sioban Blaney-Brown, left, and hygienist Sarah Musial, of the Russell Health Centre in Canberra, are well qualified to offer advice about oral health. Photo: CPL Mark Doran

CPL Mark Doran gets advice on taking care of those pearly whites.

Look after that smile

‘Taking good care of your oral health can be seen as a long term investment.

– Dr Sioban Blaney-Brown

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22 August 2, 2012RCEAIR FSp rt

Down time Down time in the USin the USSQNLDR Sean Walsh and FLTLT Barry Calver were among 56 skydiv-ers who jumped from three aircraft and joined up in midair over the Perris Valley in California.

The two RAAFies were among world-class skydivers invited to par-ticipate in an invitational event called Power Play from June 28 to July 2.

“The satisfaction of participat-ing in such high-class events is immense,” SQNLDR Walsh said.

“Formations like this one are very

technical because the openness of the centre makes them very fragile while flying.

“Events like this are great for us personally and for the Australian Defence Parachute Association as we are representing Australian sky-diving on a world stage.”

He said that as a result of events at Perris Valley, where the event is held each year, the quality of large formation Australian skydiving had improved considerably.

ALL TOGETHER NOW: SQNLDR Sean Walsh, above and encircled top in the 56-person formation high in the Californian sky, and FLTLT Barry Calver, encircled bottom.

Photo: George Kastoulis

23August 2, 2012RCEAIR F Sp rt

From Back PageThe Malaysians will be hosted

at RAAF Base Glenbrook, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) will be based at RAAF Base Richmond. The RAAF teams will also be based at Richmond from November 6-11 for trials and team selection.

On November 9, RAAF, RMAF and RNZAF will hold an air forces round-robin competition in Sydney, followed by a function that evening.

IDCC12 will start in Canberra on November 12 with a series of Twenty20 games and 50-over one-day games, culminating in the IDCC grand final at Manuka Oval on November 23.

A World Defence XI will then be selected to play against former Test and first class cricketers from the Australian Cricketers Association (ACA) Masters at Manuka on November 24 in a Twenty20 game to be known as the International Challenge Shield. The match will coincide with the launch of the Stand Tall (for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) awareness cam-paign.

PTSD Limited is headed by Vietnam veteran Tony Dell, who was the ADF’s last serviceman to play Test cricket (he was a bowler who played two Tests in the early 70s).

Mr Dell has suffered for more than 40 years with PTSD and this campaign aims to put the focus back on this battle so that others do not have to wait that long to find help.

Army won the first IDCC in 2007 but lost to RMAF by 65 runs in the final the last time it was held in 2009.

The IDCC will be conducted under the direction of the Australian Services Cricket Association (ASCA) president, RADM Mark Campbell.

CDF GEN David Hurley is the ASCA patron.

At the time of going to print, the participation of the Pakistan Defence team was still awaiting approval from the Pakistan Defence Minister.

“It promises to be a great couple of weeks of Defence sport play-ing against cricketers from New Zealand, Malaysia and Pakistan,” WGCDR Pinder said.

For more information, email ASCA.cricket@defence.gov.au or ASCA.cricket@defence.gov.au, or contact RAAFCA vice-president FLTLT Justin van Beuningen on (02) 4588 1140.

THE Air Force Football Association (AFFA) is calling for nominations for players, coaches and team manag-ers to represent the Air Force at the open men’s, over 35 men’s and open women’s sides for the interservice soccer tournament in Sydney from November 2 to 6.

Air Force won the open men’s title last year.

Expressions of interest for play-ers close on October 12.

Air Force will hold a training camp at RAAF Base Richmond from October 27 to November 1.

For more information, contact FLTLT Ben Cowan, ben.cowan@defence.gov.au

Calling on the soccer crowd

November return for Defence cricket

FLTLT Erin Rinaldi

NUMBER 4 Squadron raised more than $5000 for the Commando Welfare Trust Fund through a warrior workout on June 29.

The workout was a team event, in which groups of four competed in combat or open heats.

Members who participated in the combat division had to add a 10kg vest for the 800m run, 20 pull-ups, 30 push-ups and 50 squats. It was all for a good cause, though.

The trust fund supports the families of personnel killed or wounded in action while on operations with 2nd Commando Regiment (2CDO), and 4SQN started its charity workouts last year.

4SQN B Flight personnel have been deployed continu-ously on operations since 2008 in support of Army Force Elements. As a result, 4SQN now shares a close working rela-tionship with 2CDO and its soldiers. This year the workout was held in memory of commando SGT Todd Langley who was killed in action in July last year.

Teams from all units across RAAF Base Williamtown, as well as a contingent from 2CDO, donated money to participate in the event. Money was also raised through gate collection and donations from deployed combat controllers.

CO 4SQN WGCDR Stuart Bellingham said: “We really value our relationship with 2CDO Regiment, and this event is an important part of our annual calendar that is gaining more and more support each year.

“This year we again received outstanding support from the Williamtown PTIs, and I would like to pass on my sincere gratitude to those who came and participated or donated to the event. It was a great success and we are looking forward to an even bigger and better event next year,” he said.

FLTLT Cath Friend

THERE was no lazy Saturday morn-ing for some eager members of 82WG – instead they pushed their bodies to the limit in a CrossFit challenge to raise money for Legacy.

The event happened on July 7 when about 100 people, compris-ing civilian visitors from a CrossFit gymnasium in Brisbane and 82WG personnel, challenged themselves with a massive CrossFit at RAAF Base Amberley, and raised about $1500 for Legacy.

CO 6SQN WGCDR Terence Deeth was pleased with the results.

“The Charity Challenge was a great opportunity for the civilian attendees to enjoy a guided tour of a Super Hornet and an F-111 as well as view a military working dog display,” he said.

“The event itself was very well

VESTED INTERESTS: Warrior workout participants started off the challenge with an 800m sprint, wearing 10kg vests just to make the race a tad harder. Photos: LAC Mark Friend

FEEL THE EFFORT: SGT Mick Derricott, left, and FLTLT Adam Grinyer take on chin-ups.

It ain’t heavy, they are our brothers

HOW MANY TO GO?: FLTLT Joel Stitt on his push-up quest in the warrior workout.

Hard yakka for another good causereceived by all participants but the highlight for me was to see the mili-tary personnel experience a fitness session that few (especially those new to CrossFit) will forget in a hurry.

“To end the event the 6SQN Social Club put on a hearty barbecue for the hungry participants,” he said.

GET READY: 82WG members warm up under the supervision of Doug Armstrong, owner and principle trainer of Crossfit Rocks, before their intense workout. Photos: LAC Dan Pinhorn

PREPARING FOR PAIN: FLTLT Brendan Preston warms up.

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RTRTA

THE Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) will return to the scene of an unlikely victory when it comes to Canberra in November for the Australian Services Cricket Association’s third International Defence Cricket Challenge (IDCC12).

Malaysia does not figure in the upper

echelon of senior international cricket – but in 2009 it was a convincing winner in the IDCC.

This year it will be back to defend its title and will be up against the ADF, Royal New Zealand Air Force, New Zealand Army, Pakistan Defence team and a

Barbarian team which will comprise Army players from Australia and New Zealand.

The RAAF, which won the inter-service 50-over title in 2010 and the Twenty20 title last year, aims to do well again, according to the president of the RAAF Cricket Association, WGCDR Grant Pinder.

“The RAAFCA wants to once again field a strong team that will compete against tough competition and proudly represent Air Force,” WGCDR Pinder said.

The Air Force team will play host to two of the visitors as part of the lead-up to the tournament. Continued Page 23

Cricketers back againback again

HOWZAT FLASHBACK: Air Force players appeal in unison against Royal New Zealand Air Force in 2009 – from left, LAC Michael Rutherford, CPL Adam Bosworth, FLGOFF Mitchell Dockett and FLTLT Jarrod Moxey. Inset, if you thought you had seen the back of the Malaysians when they applauded their supporters after winning the title at Manuka Oval in 2009, think again. They plan to return this year. Photos: LS Phillip CullinanPhotos: LS Phillip Cullin

Down time in the US

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FLEXING THEIR MUSCLES AND DOING THEIR BIT FOR CHARITY – PAGE 23

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