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AIRF RCEVol. 61, No. 14, August 8, 2019 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force
Pages 2-3, Centre
It’s a wrap for Talisman
Sabre
A C-130J Hercules air drops rations into the Shoalwater Bay Training Area during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: PTE Michael Currie
THE SKIES
HAVE ITPage 8
F-35A TRAININGPage 6
CROSS-SERVICINGPage 4
LIFE IN THE RAAF
EDITORIALDirectorDavid Edlington
Managing EditorMyles Morgan
Acting EditorJessica Deotto: (02) 6266 7612
Deputy EditorMichelle Fretwell
ReportersSGT Max BreeSGT Dave MorleyCPL Sebastian BeurichCPL Veronica O’Hara
[email protected] Editor, Air Force News, R1-GF-C037, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600
ADVERTISING AND SUBSCRIPTIONSMarketing ManagerTim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or
0459 842 551
Assistant Marketing ManagerPam Clarke: (02) 6265 2427
DISCLAIMERAir Force News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence News. It is printed under contract by Spotpress Pty Ltd. The material published is selected for its interest. The views expressed in published articles are not neces-sarily those of Defence or Air Force News. Every advertisement is subject to Directorate of Defence News approval and the Directorate of Defence News may, at its discretion, refuse to accept an advertisement. The Directorate accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear or if it appears in a form not in accordance with the instructions received by the Directorate of Defence News. Defence does not endorse the products or services published in advertisements.
AIRF RCE
Living the Air Force Values: RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORK
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2 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FExercise Talisman Sabre
Stronger together
Claire Galliford
THE fictional people of Legais are free of the invading Kamarian mili-tary, following the intervention of a multinational force striking from the sea, on land and in the air.
The “battle” raged for two weeks down the Queensland coast as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre, involv-ing 22 ships, more than 200 aircraft and 34,000 personnel.
It was Australia’s largest bilateral exercise to date, with involvement from the US, Australia, NZ, the UK, Canada and Japan.
Forces were a s s igned as Kamarians or the intervention force, both featuring similar levels of technology.
As the warring sides fought, outcomes of missions and objec-
tives were withheld to keep results realistic.
DCJOPS MAJGEN Roger Noble said partnerships with participating nations were fundamental to collec-tive security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific.
“We are stronger together, guid-ed by our shared values,” MAJGEN Noble said.
“In addition to the objectives and missions completed throughout the exercise, it has been invaluable to share and exchange different ways of working alongside our biggest defence ally.
“The real mark of success of this exercise was that it delivered a truly dynamic warfighting experience in a safe and controlled environment.
“War is never smooth and over-planning can stifle tactical creativity
– one of the things that gives us an edge over potential adversaries.”
As a result of the exercise, Australia and its allies now share an enhanced sense of interoperability and confidence in working together, while improving Air Force, Navy and Army’s combat readiness.
Talisman Sabre was also an exer-cise of firsts.
Australia’s Landing Helicopter Docks (LHDs) , HMA Ships Adelaide and Canberra, operated together for the first time when they conducted amphibious landings at Stanage Bay and Bowen. They were the largest Australian-led amphibi-ous landings since WWII.
It was also the first time the US Army’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System was live-fired in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
The exercise also saw the first collective embarkation of MRH-90 Taipan, CH-47 Chinook and ARH Tiger helicopters on Australia’s LHDs.
An Australian KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker also refuelled a US Air Force F-22 Raptor for the first time in Australian skies.
Adelaide hosted the Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty and VCDF VADM David Johnston during the exercise.
“It’s essential Australia and the US can work together in the most complex scenarios,” Mr Moriarty said.
“The strategic context in the Indo-Pacific region is always chang-ing, so our alliance and ability to work with the US and other partners must change and improve too.”
FLTLT Paul Atteridge watches as an MH60-R helicopter approaches HMAS Canberra’s flight deck during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: AB Susan Mossop
Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty, second from right, and VCDF VADM David Johnston, far right, visit personnel taking part in Exercise Talisman Sabre.
Claire Galliford
RAAF Military Working Dogs (MWDs) have successfully partici-pated in Exercise Talisman Sabre, highlighting the breadth of jobs and training that was conducted over the past couple of weeks.
MWDs had varied roles throughout the exercise, providing security and support for military aviation assets at Queensland’s Rockhampton Airport, which included US and NZ aircraft.
LACW Kate Williamson and Dutch Shepherd Afra, of No. 1 Security Forces Squadron, were just one of the teams working in Queensland as part of the exercise.
“This was my first Talisman Sabre and I enjoyed the opportu-nity to work alongside other ADF and international personnel from various nations and enhance my understanding of the contributions they make to national defence,” LACW Williamson said.
“Afra and I have been a work-ing team for three years and it’s great to work with her every day providing security for both Australian and international air-craft and personnel that took part in the exercise.”
Even the NZ Defence Force brought over two of their very best explosive detector dogs: Iris and Inky. The impressive brother-and-sister duo, together with their handlers, NZ Army SPR Sean O’Keeffe and LCPL Maylin Broderick, took part in varied simulated explosive detector train-ing throughout the exercise in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
“Iris and I have been together since the start of the year, taking part in a range of simulated train-ings in the field to detect unex-ploded ordnances. The simulation on exercise was as real as pos-sible and Iris takes her job very seriously,” LCPL Broderick said.
As part of the Australian Army’s 2nd General Health Battalion field hospital, located near where Iris and Inky did their simulated training, a fully function-al veterinary clinic was in opera-tion at Williamson airfield during the exercise.
The clinic could be deployed alongside the military field hos-pital in operations if required. If any MWDs were injured during a real-life operation, the dog could be afforded similar health and medical care provided to service personnel.
Paw-fect contribution to Talisman Sabre
LACW Kate Williamson, of No. 1 Security Forces Squadron, and Military Working Dog Afra patrol around Rockhampton Airport during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: CPL Sebastian Beurich
3August 8, 2019RCEAIR F Exercise Talisman Sabre
FLTLT Nicole Strachan
RAAF air traffic controllers enjoyed a very successful Exercise Talisman Sabre (TS19).
Control of the air during any battle or exercise is vital – intense coordina-tion and communication was required at sea during TS19 to achieve this.
On board Australia’s two larg-est ships, HMA Ships Canberra and Adelaide, the vital link between mis-sion command, aircrew and troops on the ground was provided by the air traffic controllers.
They combined under one call sign: ‘Overlord’.
On rotation, they took on the responsibility of being ‘Overlord’ and provided tight coordination and con-
trol of the airspace for both the ships and their air assets.
SQNLDR Ross Madsen, who coined the callsign for the combined force, was impressed with the out-come.
“As we would control two run-ways in airspace on the mainland, we have now successfully tested this at sea, extending our maritime opera-tions capacity in contested airspace,” SQNLDR Madsen said.
“On one occasion, we transferred control mid-shift between the vessels, allowing the helicopters from both vessels to support a real-life civilian search-and-rescue operation, while HMAS Adelaide could continue south on task – it was a defining moment of interoperability within the trial.”
SQNDLR Ross Madsen coordinates aircraft from onboard HMAS Canberra.
Overlords of the skies
VADM Johnston said it was reassuring to see Australia train alongside the other nations involved.
“By getting out into our national training areas, practis-ing interoperability in complex roles, we are able to achieve mul-ti-domain combat excellence in preparation for the challenges we may face in the future,” VADM Johnston said.
Australia and its allies now share confidence in working together, while improving our combat readiness for the future.
Planning for Talisman Sabre in 2021 has commenced, aiming to capitalise on the interoperabil-ity and momentum created this year.
More on Talisman Sabre
CentreAAFCANS Amenities Container Kiosk supporting the Williamson Airfield Air Bridge.
Always ready to serve its membersDonna Browne
SMILES were on the menu, along with coffee, food and drinks as AAFCANS lived up to its strat-egy of ‘where you go, we go’ across Shoalwater Bay during Exercise Talisman Sabre.
Along with well-stocked main kiosks at Theatre Gateway in Rockhampton and Camp Growl, airmen and airwomen welcomed the addition of forward amenities facilities at Williamson Airfield, supporting the Williamson Air Bridge and RAAF operations in the field.
To further their support, AAFCANS deployed mobile facilities and container amenities into forward positions including
Sam Hill, the Field of Dreams FSG, central range and more.
In line with AAFCANS strategy, its services moved, deployed and flexed in size and in unison with the needs of Air Force and Army.
“Both Air Force and Army personnel greatly appreciated access to hot coffee, cold drinks, the increased range of warm and welcoming food, personal hygiene and grocery products,” AAFCANS Managing Director Stewart McGrow said.
“Air Force and Army internal communications helped to direct our ground crew to send the facil-ities where it was most needed.”
RAAF Base Townsville’s AAFCANS opened its doors to
visiting squadrons, extending trading hours during the exercise and trading on the weekend to increase access.
“Planners should consider including the significant morale and welfare enhancing capabili-ties that AAFCANS is now able to deploy to the field to such bases as Tindal and Darwin for exercises like Pitch Black,” Air Force AAFCANS Board mem-ber AIRCDRE Ian Pearson said.
Do you have an interest in Defence Youth Safety?The Defence annual Youth Safety Forum is being held on
6 September 2019
The Defence Youth Safety Forum is open to all personnel and will be particularly informative for:• Defence Senior Leadership Group;• Defence Force Recruiting;• Defence Training Authorities;• instructional staff at initial training establishments;• Defence Youth Program staff;• supervisors/managers/commanders of employees
under the age of 18;• and other Defence staff such as contractors and
youth program practitioners who regularly engage with young people under the age of 18.
Personnel wishing to attend the Defence Youth Safety Forum are encouraged to provide their name, position and email, via email to [email protected] by 23 August 2019.
Further information on Defence Youth Safety can be found on the Defence Youth website: www.defenceyouth.gov.au
DPS:JUL019-19
4 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FNews
Eamon Hamilton
FOR the first time, 36SQN has worked to get US Air Force C-17A Globemasters back into the air through a new cross-servicing arrangement.
The work came following an agreement between both countries for a C-17A Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Service – Implementing Arrangement (ARMS-IA), which allows RAAF and USAF technicians to work on each other’s C-17As.
On July 4, the arrangement was enacted to help support a USAF C-17A at RAAF Base Richmond.
WOFF Pete Ranson, of 36SQN, said the request for assistance came via the Boeing Defence Australia rep-resentatives at RAAF Base Amberley.
“We supplied a co-pilot, multi-function control panel for the cockpit, fitted it and carried out the associ-ated operational checks to verify the replacement,” WOFF Ranson said.
“After that rectification, another unserviceability appeared and was successfully rectified.”
The issue related to a secondary flight control computer – 36SQN engaged fellow RAAF technicians at 37SQN for tooling and consumables.
Throughout the repair on the USAF C-17A, Australian and US technicians worked side by side.
“The issues with the affected air-craft were outside the expertise of the USAF maintenance personnel on that task,” WOFF Ranson said.
On the tools together
“The USAF aviation technician trades are more specialised than the RAAF, where we stream to [become] either aircraft technicians or avionics technicians.
“We carry a broader experience in a range of tasks, and 36SQN maintenance personnel were able to guide the USAF counterparts in rectifying the jet.”
The fix at Richmond came just days after 36SQN technicians assisted another USAF C-17A with a suspected fuel leak fault at Rockhampton, Queensland.
“On that occasion, we sent maintenance personnel to trouble-shoot the problem,” WOFF Ranson said.
“We found it was a faulty valve
and not a fuel leak from the tank, which gave confidence to the USAF crew that they could carry on to an appropriate location to replace the valve.”
OC 86WG GPCAPT Steve Pesce said the work of 36SQN technicians had immediately vali-dated the ARMS-IA.
“The ARMS-IA recognised the close relationship between RAAF and USAF C-17A communities and the reality that we operate this aircraft a long way from home,” GPCAPT Pesce said.
“Both of these examples wit-nessed a C-17A getting back on a task much sooner than would have been otherwise possible, which is invaluable support.”
LAC Aaron Kouyoumtzoglou and SSGT Dustin Sheffield lock wire a fuel filter during the maintenance of the C-17. Photo: CPL Brenton Kwaterski
FLTLT Jessica Aldred
GOOD behaviours start with good training and that’s what Air Force Training Group (AFTG) is focused on for family and domestic violence prevention.
Following the release of the Air Force Implementation Plan for the Defence Family and Domestic Violence Strategy 2017-2022, CDR
AFTG AIRCDRE Glen Braz has been committed to ensuring the workforce understands this is not just a new fad but an example of how our values are linked to our overall behaviours.
“Prevention is always better than cure as we can solve issues before they occur, prevent harm and reduce phys-ical and emotional stress generated through poor behaviour,” AIRCDRE Braz said.
“The link to Air Force values is vital to ensure the workforce under-stands this an example of how our val-ues translate to leadership and behav-iour at all levels, including taking an important leadership role in society.”
AFTG conducts regular education and awareness activities throughout its units, including initial training.
CDR AFTG fosters inclusive lead-ership through his commander’s intent
so that all commanders provide a safe and respectful workplace.
“Maintaining a healthy, balanced workplace is vital for the wellbeing of our people, which enables our capabil-ity,” AIRCDRE Braz said.
“Without these elements we will erode trust in our service, hamper attraction of the best talent our coun-try has available and reduce retention of those we have invested in already
through training and experience. Our people are our most valuable asset.”
This implementation plan has three objectives: to prevent family and domestic violence against or by Air Force personnel, to respond and to provide support.
For more information, visit the Personnel Branch – Air Force Family and Domestic Violence page on the intranet
Prevention from the start
Officers’ Training School Directing Staff FLTLT Jacob Crack, left, engages with officer cadets during a classroom lesson at Officers’ Training School in East Sale, Victoria. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett
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BEFORE joining Air Force, ACW Jenny Phan visited a number of military trade career days but already knew that Air Force was
where she wanted to be.“I am passionate about aircraft and
was seeking a challenging and interest-ing career, so I did a lot of research, went to a lot of open days and attended Air Force’s Young Women’s Technical Camp at RAAF Base Wagga in 2016,” ACW Phan said.
Exactly a year later, ACW Phan enlisted and achieved dux of her initial employment training course and then posted to 6SQN at RAAF Base Amberley as an aircraft technician.
“I am 10 months into my first posting at 6SQN and am one of about 11 women in technical roles,” she said.
“I remember walking down the flight-line for the first time, knowing that my hard work had paid off.
“My parents came to Australia as refugees, so to be the first in my family to join the ADF and be recognised for my achievements so early in my career is something I’m really proud of.”
Earlier this year, ACW Phan accom-panied ACG WOFF Rudolf Vitasz to the Australian International Airshow as a professional development opportunity.
“WOFF Vitasz and I discussed Plan Jericho, the future of Air Force and how impressive it was to see ASTROSTEM and Jasper come to life,” ACW Phan said.
‘... to be the first in my family to join the ADF and be
recognised for my achievements ... is
something I’m really proud of.
– ACW Jenny Phan
Wanted
ADF Reservists with COMSARM qualifications
The Defence Single Disposal Organisation is currently concentrating on the disposal of Explosive Ordnance (EO) and is seeking members experienced in Computer System Armaments (COMSARM).
Members must hold a Negative Vetting 1 clearance and have extensive knowledge in COMSARM to assist with the transactions required during the disposal of EO.
Position commences from September 2019 at Canberra, ACT and/or Orchard Hills, NSW.
• You will assist with the planning and conduct associated with disposal of EO.
• You will assist with analysing data in COMSARM and finalising transactions after the disposal of EO.
• Position available for any service/rank for between 50 and 200 days per FY.
• Must have experience within the last 5 years and be a current reservist.
• Travel will be required between Canberra, Orchard Hills and other locations on a semi regular basis.
Submit your resume to the MLDS Reserves mailbox:
6 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FNews
Looking to the futureThe future of Air Force looks bright with young achievers like this 6SQN aircraft technician, writes FLTLT Kate Davis.
Aircraft Technician ACW Jenny Phan inspects the undercarriage of a 6SQN EA-18G Growler. Photo: CPL Jesse Kane
DEFENCE equity advisers will now be known as workplace behaviour advisers following a recent review into the equity adviser network.
The review noted equity advisers’ roles related more to workplace behaviour, not just equity and diversity.
Adviser numbers will also be standardised, with ratios supporting bases rather than individual units.
Those with less than 1000 personnel will have a minimum of four and a standard ratio of 1:100.
Bases with more than 1000 personnel will have a ratio of 1:150 and training units will have a ratio of 1:75. Individual assessment and coordination with the Directorate of Complaints and Resolution will occur of non-Air Force deployed units.
For further information visit the complaints and resolution webpage: http://drnet/People/ComplaintResolution/Pages/Complaints.aspx Local dispute resolution practitioners can be found here: http://drnet/People/ComplaintResolution/Pages/Alternative-Dispute-Resolution.aspx
Name change for equity advisers
All-in-one manualINFORMATION about the discipline officer (DO) scheme was collated into a single stand-alone document, the DO Manual, on July 1.
The manual updates policy and procedures previously contained in the Discipline Law Manual in a docu-ment which should be the only point of reference for most users.
VCDF VADM David Johnston said the changes would provide clear-er guidance for quick, fair and sim-ple procedures in dealing with minor infringements.
“The manual is intended to make the DO scheme easier to understand for commanders, users and those sub-ject to it,” VADM Johnston said.
“We are committed to ensuring the system is easy to use – particu-larly by junior ranks and especially on deployments.
“The updates do not alter infringe-ments or the range of punishments, but will improve the conduct and administration of the DO scheme.
“The changes are intended to strengthen governance, provide clar-ity and ensure more complete advice is given to commanders.
“Defence’s primary concern is to ensure the system is fair for all per-sonnel involved in the process.”
Updates include a revised infringement notice (C1), which requires DOs to note where addi-tional support or intervention may be required, as well as providing guid-ance for the relevant officer’s deci-sion record.
How do the changes affect me as an ADF member?ADF members who are dealt with under the DO scheme will see no change. DOs and relevant officers (RO) are required to complete the revised training packages that include information on the updated Discipline Officer Manual 2019.Where are the new training packages?The revised training pack-ages for DOs and ROs can be accessed via the Military Law Centre: http:/drnet.defence.gov.au/AssociateSecretary/DLD/DGADF/Directorates/Pages/Military%20Law%20Centre.aspxWill the changes affect my career if I am subject to an infringement?There are no changes to the current arrangements. The circumstances that gave rise to an infringement may be recorded in your PPR, but will not include the detail of the outcome.
The new manual comes into effect on September 1 and is available on the Defence Manual Website: intranet.defence.gov.au/home/documents/ departmental/mdepartm.htm
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
LIFE IN THE RAAF
“We shared the sentiments that Air Force is going through an exciting evolu-tion with inclusivity and diversity at the forefront of our people capability.
“It made me reflect on how incredible it is to continuously meet people who share your vision, not just for the future of your unit, but of your organisation as a whole.”
Balancing hard work with her hobbies, ACW Phan shares more than just her pro-fessional aspirations with her peers, incor-
porating her Vietnamese heritage and love of food into the workplace.
“Food was always such a huge deal for my family. I have taken up baking since coming to 6SQN and have started an initiative called ‘Morale Mondays’ where I bring in home-baked treats for my sec-tion,” she said.
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8 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FNews
‘The credit for today’s milestone goes to all those who have worked
tirelessly to ensure the F-35A had a
smooth introduction to service.– WGCDR Darren Clare,
CO 3SQN
Ready, set, take-off
FLTLT Alyssa Vickridge
AIR Force’s first pilots to complete a RAAF F-35A transition course in Australia have flown the aircraft for the first time.
Two pilots conducted their first training mission on the F-35A at RAAF Base Williamtown on July 15 after undertaking an intensive two-month academic and simulator train-ing program at the base’s Integrated Training Centre.
SQNLDR William Grady said the transition course had been tailored to
leverage previous fighter experience. “The F-35A training is unique in
that there is no two-seat variant to aid airborne instruction,” SQNLDR Grady said.
“As a result, we do comparatively more simulator training before flying for the first time.
“It has been an intensive few months, but I’m happy to say the train-ing is first class.”
CO 3SQN WGCDR Darren Clare said the flights marked a milestone in the F-35A’s introduction to service.
“Being able to watch the launch
SQNLDR David Bell talks with SQNLDR William Grady over the radio as SQNLDR Grady conducts his first flight on the F-35A following transition training at RAAF Base Williamtown. Photo: SGT Guy Young
of the first two Australian-trained pilots on their first flight was a proud moment,” WGCDR Clare said.
“Although we currently still send pilots to the US for training, this shows Australia is quickly becoming self-sufficient and it all contributes to our F-35A squadrons reaching combat readiness as planned.
“The introduction of a fifth-gener-ation aircraft and all its new systems has been highly complex.”
WGCDR Clare sa id tes t ing how the F-35A integrated with the Australian logistics, base support and
local training systems only started in January.
“The credit for today’s milestone goes to all those who have worked tirelessly to ensure the F-35A had a smooth introduction to service,” he said.
Australia’s fleet of 10 F-35A air-craft based at Luke Air Force Base, US, and Williamtown have collectively achieved more than 2900 hours across more than 1750 sorties since 2014.
The F-35A Initial Operating Capabi l i ty is on schedule for December 2020.
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Better breathing
FLTLT Dion Isaacson
BREATHING is traditionally thought of as an automatic pro-cess driven by the brain stem.
However, new research involving recordings made directly from within the brains of humans undergoing neurosurgery, showed breathing can change your brain.
Simply put, changes in breath-ing, for example, breathing at different paces or paying careful attention to your breaths, were shown to engage different parts of the brain.
AFHQ Physical Training Instructor CPL Joel Munro said understanding breathing may lead
to greater focus, calmness and emotional control.
“Many studies have shown various breathing techniques to increase energy levels, mood and athletic performance, and decrease stress and anxiety,” CPL Munro said.
The AFHQ PTI section teach-es breathing techniques as part of the Healthy Headspace program. The program aims to educate members in workplace health and wellness practices.
For more information on the Healthy Headspace program, contact the AFHQ PTI section [email protected] and keep an eye out for upcoming editions of Air Force News to see more Healthy Headspace information.
Healthy Headspace
CONTROLLED BREATHING BENEFITS
1. Boosted energy levels2. Lowered stress levels3. Stronger immune system4. Quicker recovery after workouts5. Improved focus and concentration6. Improved sleep quality7. It’s a natural mood booster8. Better blood circulation
WGCDR Ina Schultz practises controlled breathing.
THE largest Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is marching into the harbour city at Stadium Australia, Sydney Olympic Park, from October 17 to 19.
Australia’s military heritage will parade alongside more than 1500 per-formers from around the world, includ-ing the UK, Switzerland, France, New Zealand and India.
The Tattoo will also be joined by neighbouring countries, including Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa and the Cook Islands.
Set against a full-size replica of Edinburgh Castle, the Combined Bands of the ADF, Australia’s Federation Guard and the pipes and drums of the ADF will take part in the Australian staging of the Tattoo.
LACW Ruby Lulham, who will be playing clarinet in the Tattoo, said she was looking forward to the event.
“It’s great to see different nations
coming together in a celebration of mili-tary service,” she said.
“Music is the common interest for all those involved so it will be exciting to be able to perform alongside everyone in such an iconic event.
“Everyone will be wanting to give it their absolute best to make the event as successful and memorable as possible; it will be brilliant to be part of.”
The ADF will provide a range of ceremonial and logistical support to the Tattoo including more than 200 cast members, transport and coordination for participating nations.
From a modest event in a park, the Tattoo has become a phenomenon, with a remarkable live audience of 220,000 at Edinburgh Castle each August and a global TV audience of 100 million.
ADF personnel are eligible for a 20 per cent discount on gold and silver tickets. Tickets can now be purchased online through Ticketek, visit: edinburghtattoosydney.com.au
Military Tattoo in Sydney
Community welcomed at WilliamtownFLTLT Bettina Mears
RAAF Base Williamtown hosted an F-35A community day on July 5 for Hunter Region community members, leaders, organisational representatives and Defence community partners.
Attendees viewed the F-35A pre-cinct and facility, including state-of-the-art maintenance and training areas developed for the aircraft.
The F-35A community day show-cased the value and economic benefit of the project to the Hunter economy and helped to maintain the community connection – to foster greater under-standing and awareness of the base and its operations.
GPCAPT Peter Cluff, of RAAF Base Williamtown, said the F-35A
community day was an important event.“Williamtown has a long association
with the regional community and this close relationship is something we truly value,” he said.
“The opportunity to provide our friends and neighbours with an insight into the F-35A and its facility as Air Force’s newest capability is a great privilege; it is the ongoing support of the community that has been instru-mental to the successful delivery and sustainment of the project.
“The F-35A community day has allowed guests to meet the highly trained, highly skilled professional Air Force personnel that maintain and fly the aircraft – without whom, none of this would be possible.”
Commander Air Combat Group AIRCDRE Anthony Grady talks to participants at the F-35A precinct during a community day at RAAF Base Williamtown. Photo: SGT Guy Young
9August 8, 2019RCEAIR F News
10 11RCEAIR FEXERCISE TALISMAN SABRE August 8, 2019
Talisman Sabre showed strength in interoperability and tactical operations, Jaimie Abbott reports.
CAPT AnnMarie Anni-celli, USAF, and FLGOFF Clarice Hurren
IN THE fight for air superiority during Exercise Talisman Sabre, the US Air Force and RAAF met a major milestone in the airspace off the Queensland coast.
For the first time in the Indo-Pacific region and during a com-bined exercise, a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft, from 33SQN, success-fully conducted an air-to-air
refuelling mission with a USAF 90th Fighter Squadron aircraft.
COL Brian Baldwin, USAF 13th Air Expeditionary Group Commander, said it was a momentous achievement as both forces collectively furthered capability and assisted in the security of the region.
GPCAPT Stephen Chappell, Talisman Sabre Amberley Task Unit Commander, agreed with COL Baldwin, noting that this was a major achievement for the ADF.
“This successful mission enhances Air Force agility to em-ploy air power in the interest of regional stability and security,” GPCAPT Chappell said.
“It has been an invaluable opportunity for 33SQN to train alongside the USAF and to access US fighter aircraft fuel receiver expertise.
“Australia looks forward to continued interoperability with the USAF and the 90th Fighter Squadron in the future.”
Australia fuels history with US in Indo-Pacific
Left: A Multi-Role Tanker Transport KC-30A from 33SQN takes off from RAAF Base Amberley during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: CPL Jesse Kane
FLGOFF Clarice Hurren
MORE than 90 personnel from a US Air Force aircraft main-tenance unit were stationed at RAAF Base Amberley for Exer-cise Talisman Sabre (TS19).
Weapons, avionics, environ-mental, mechanical and produc-tion specialists assisted the 90th Fighter Squadron with fighter jet operations in Australia.
Lead production superinten-dent MSGT Fredrick Cook Jr said his team received the task-ing months before the exercise began and supported up to 14 aircraft sorties a day.
“The goal of TS19, for us, was to learn to operate away from home,” MSGT Cook said.
“We worked closely with the RAAF maintenance operations
centre on base regarding the de-livery of equipment and engine repairs.
“We deployed to Amberley millions of dollars in parts for our aircraft – so it was a massive undertaking.”
Parked near the 36SQN hangar, deployable debriefing fa-cilities and combat communica-tions centres were also installed by USAF personnel.
MSGT Cook said the interna-tional airlift effort and prepara-tion involved multiple aircraft.
“When we first arrived, there were kangaroos hopping all over the taxiway – such a unique thing for our team to see,” he said.
OIC Amberley TS19 Mainte-nance Operations Centre (MOC) FLTLT Sam Stockdale said it had
been stood up as a conduit.“The MOC assisted MSGT
Cook and his team with the coordination of resources, such as fuel, and acted as a liaison for the prioritisation of other local base services – even aircraft parking,” FLTLT Stockdale said.
“Essentially, the MOC was a centralised maintenance cell act-ing as a host for our visitors.”
FLTLT Stockdale said USAF personnel were embedded in the MOC on an ad-hoc basis to as-sist with the humorous language differences that arose.
“The main one was calling aircraft fuel ‘gas’ and tow motors ‘tugs’,” FLTLT Stockdale said.
“These things were easy to get around. I also had to clarify that a ‘skip’ was just a big trash can.”
No turbulence in Queensland
Movements Aircraft Refueller LAC Craig Stewart, of 3SQN, left, teams up with US Air Force Aircraft Refueller Airman First Class Paul Bonham to refuel aircraft on the flightline at RAAF Base Amberley during the exercise. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd
COMBAT READY
Crew 5 from 11SQN in front of a P-8A Poseidon on the flightline of RAAF Base Williamtown during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett
THE P-8A Poseidon played a starring role in Talisman Sabre, operating out of RAAF Base Williamtown for the
duration of the exercise.More than 140 personnel from
both Australia and the US made up the P-8A detachment.
Four aircraft – two from each na-tion – were based out of the Mobile Tactical Operations Centre (MTOC).
Detachment Commander SQN-LDR Melissa Houston said Talisman Sabre presented an invaluable oppor-tunity to exercise our interoperability with the US Navy.
“Operating from a combined MTOC forged synergies, from mission planning and execution right through to analysis,” SQNLDR Houston said.
“Working closely with our US Navy partners enabled us to jointly ex-plore emerging P-8A capabilities, op-timise tactics, techniques and proce-
dures and share warfare development.”For three weeks, 11SQN and VP-5
(known as the Mad Foxes) flew a va-riety of sorties and were put through different scenarios including anti-sub-marine warfare (ASW) missions.
OC 92WG GPCAPT John Grime flew on one of the ASW missions and
said conducting ASW in support of a Carrier Strike Group was a challeng-ing and complex role that was only fully exercised during large exercises like Talisman Sabre.
“To do it in concert with the Mad Foxes only added to the fun,” GPCAPT Grime said.
This was the first time the Australian P-8A has participated solo in Talisman Sabre. The missions flown during the exercise by the five P-8A crews included theatre ASW, force ASW, strike group ASW, opposed refuel at sea, large force employment and war at sea.
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13August 8, 2019RCEAIR F News
Decades of dedication
FLTLT Tracey Li
CELEBRATING 92 years of ser-vice between them, David Gardner and Monica Walsh from the RAAF Museum were recently presented with certificates for their long and proud commitment to Defence.
On July 8, Acting Commander AFTG GPCAPT Dennis Tan presented a 40-year APS certificate to Ms Walsh and a 20-year APS Certificate to Mr Gardner in front of RAAF Museum staff and volunteers, and thanked them for their service.
Mr Gardner, now Director of the
RAAF Museum, previously served in Air Force for 30 years before enjoying a 22-year APS career.
“I joined Air Force as an aircraft technician in 1967. I was 18 years old and decided to follow in the footsteps of my great uncle, who was killed-in-action in WWI, and my father, an Air Force aircraft technician who served in WWII and with RAAF for 20 years following the war,” Mr Gardner said.
“The highlight of my military career was definitely with 2SQN. I served with that unit from 1971-1982 and have the fondest memories from
tours to Singapore, New Guinea, Indonesia, Biak, Malaysia and all over Australia.”
Mr Gardner was appointed as the first civilian director of RAAF Museum in 2000.
“I am extremely passionate about military aircraft and RAAF history. I am honoured to take on this role,” he said.
“In the past 22 years, my team and I managed to take the museum from a dusty collection of artefacts to a world-class aviation museum, showcasing the rich and proud history of RAAF.
“At the RAAF Museum, we are committed to the preservation of AFC and RAAF memorabilia and the res-toration, maintenance and operating of our own Sopwith Pup, Tiger Moth, CT-4A, Winjeel, Harvard, Mustang, RE8 and other static aircraft.”
The other certificate recipient, Ms Walsh, commenced her Defence career as a clerical assistant in 1978.
“I worked for the Defence Signals Directorate on and off for 11 years and then became a research curator at the RAAF Museum in 1993,” Ms Walsh said.
“I manage the museum’s photo-graph collection, technical manual and response to research requests, and I am so impressed by the progress of tech-nology and how advanced Air Force has become.”
Ms Walsh said when she joined Defence, she did not expect her career to last 40 years.
“The secret to my lasting career is definitely good people,” she said.
“I cannot speak highly enough of the RAAF Museum team – they are professional, wonderful and have truly become my family.”
David Gardner, left, and Monica Walsh from the RAAF Museum celebrated 92 years’ combined service to Defence at a function at Werribee Park Mansion. Photo: FLTLT Tracey Li
FLGOFF Clarice Hurren
A C-27J Spartan from 35SQN was the sole Australian aircraft assigned to Operation Solania, working with foreign fisheries and law enforce-ment agencies across the South-West Pacific.
Fifteen 35SQN members trav-elled from RAAF Base Amberley to Tonga, Samoa and Tuvalu, contribut-ing to the ongoing maritime surveil-lance of the region.
Operation Solania Detachment Commander FLTLT Daniel Braid said aircraft static displays were conducted for members of the pub-lic and school children in Honiara, Solomon Islands and Funafuti, Tuvalu.
“Our team consisted of aircrew, maintenance, logistics and life-sup-port personnel,” FLTLT Braid said.
“We also conducted two school visits in Funafuti, Tuvalu, at the Seventh-Day Adventist Primary
School and Nauti Primary School. Students and teachers alike loved asking us all about life in the Air Force.”
XO 35SQN SQNLDR Mark Seery said the squadron will be conducting more flights and opera-tions north of Amberley as the year goes on.
“For Operation Solania we were
tasked to patrol the water within international exclusion zones moni-toring for and flagging illegal fish-ing activities,” SQNLDR Seery said. “We will have a continued presence in the South West Pacific into 2020 and these interactions are imperative to the building of strong relationships throughout the region.”
Stronger Pacific relationships
FLTLT Henry Ellis, of 35SQN, with a Tuvaluan school student.
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National Science Week RCEAIR F August 8, 201914
STUDENTS from Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School have seen how Air Force works with Boeing Defence Austral-
ia to keep some of its most advanced aircraft flying.
With a deliberate focus on STEM, the school holiday work experience program was held at RAAF Base Amberley from June 24 to 28.
It allowed eight students between Years 7 and 10 to see engineering units for the Super Hornet, Growler and Globemaster.
Students also visited the 36SQN and 1SQN flightlines, engineering and logistics facilities, and Super Hornet and Growler Technical Training Flights, along with an opportunity to see the C-17A Cargo Compartment Trainer – a massive training facil-ity used for instructing loadmasters and developing new load-carrying techniques.
To consolidate their learning and reinforce the cross-section of skill sets they had observed, the students’ expe-rience culminated in a practical design project.
WGCDR Derek Reinhardt, Chief Engineer for Air Combat Electronic Attack Systems Program Office (ACEASPO), said the program was a joint activity with Boeing Defence Australia.
“The program emphasised the strength of collaboration between Defence and Boeing Defence Australia
on the Super Hornet and Growler. All the students came to us with an interest in technical and engineering fields, providing us with the opportu-nity to showcase our talented people from both organisations,” WGCDR Reinhardt said.
Boeing Program Manager Chris Gray said this was the first time the program had been undertaken with
an all-girls school and the first time Boeing and Defence had partnered on a STEM event for young women at Amberley.
“Our past experience shows that practical involvement engages young people with STEM and inspires those who otherwise hadn’t considered a career in aerospace,” Mr Gray said.
Jennine Holliday, Boeing Defence
Australia’s coordinator for the STEM program, said the students enjoyed seeing the different elements of the base including the technical training facilities, aircraft and Heritage Centre.
“The students have been encour-aged to cont inue thei r STEM studies to allow them to participate in the engineering and project manage-ment fields, having shared career expe-
It’s full STEM aheadStudents experience STEM outside of the classroom at RAAF Base Amberley, Eamon Hamilton reports.
Boeing representatives, left, Tom Wright, Jim Gover and Louisa Lee explain the function of an F/A-18F Super Hornet’s F414 Turbofan engine to Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School students during their STEM tour of Boeing Defence Australia’s facilities. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd
riences with Defence and Boeing staff they met at Amberley,” Ms Holliday said.
FLTLT Shannan Nichols, an engi-neering officer with ACEASPO, was one of those who facilitated the pro-gram and said it was a rewarding expe-rience.
“It was great seeing the students’ eyes light up when they saw the tech-nology we operate and maintain,” FLTLT Nichols said.
“From our conversations and expo-sure to them during the week, it was obvious they have a thirst for knowl-edge and were excited to have such an opportunity.
“I believe it’s in Defence’s best interests to maximise opportunities like this, both to build a positive con-nection with these students and also inspire their enthusiasm to be involved with STEM careers.”
Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School Deputy Principal Jayne Acutt said the program was an exciting step in cre-ating a long-term pathway for more women to pursue technical careers.
“Initially the opportunity was pre-sented for a cohort of six students who were asked to apply in writing detail-ing why they would like to take up the opportunity,” Ms Acutt said.
“However, the calibre of submis-sions and enthusiasm resulted in the selection of eight participants – an increase that Boeing and Defence will-ingly accommodated.”
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WHEN SGT Chris Hodg-etts joined Air Force as a communications information system
controller almost 20 years ago, he never dreamed that one day his role would help capture imaginative ways of doing business using digital innovation tools.
His current posting to the Air Warfare Centre (AWC) Digital Innovation (DI) Lab at RAAF Base Edinburgh provides personnel the ability to experience, play and innovate with new and emerging technology such as augmented and virtual reality.
“I was drawn to this role by the critical nature that effective commu-nications play in modern warfare,” SGT Hodgetts said.
“I know how much the systems we operate and maintain contribute to enabling the ADF to perform its duties.”
SGT Hodgetts said that allowing members to experience the technol-ogy first hand would help to identify areas where such technologies may have application for in-service capability.
“This experience will get peo-ple thinking about how it may be utilised now or in the future, to enhance or re-imagine their areas of capability,” he said.
“This will be achieved by pro-viding demonstrations throughout Air Force and asking users to develop their concepts and ideas
to a proof-of-concept stage. The intent is to accelerate innovation in extended reality in order to ‘Ready the Warfighter’.”
Projects the DI Lab have worked on include enhanced communica-tion and collaboration with the Canadian Forces Aerospace Warfare Centre, using augmented reality for real-time holographic model manipulation, as well as commenc-ing trials with high-end 360-degree video for use in immersive virtual reality education and simulation experiences.
SGT Hodgetts’ initial employ-ment training consisted of eight months’ extensive communications information systems training in the Defence Force School of Signals at Simpson Barracks in Melbourne. This included tactical radio net-works, deployable information sys-tems and strategic communications.
“I’ve done many different jobs across Defence but this one has pushed me outside my comfort zone into a new and exciting world of possibilities,” SGT Hodgetts said.
“Having this experience under my belt has been beneficial to my professional development and pro-vided me tangible skills that are transferable to a civilian role.
“To anyone who is driven, adapt-able and looking for a challenge, I absolutely recommend a career in communications as Air Force moves forward into the fifth generation.”
National Science WeekRCEAIR F August 8, 2019 15
Reality tech National Science Week kicks off on August 10, so to celebrate, FLTLT Bel Scott talks to an Air Force member who is relishing his innovative role.
SGT Christopher Hodgetts from the Air Warfare Centre’s Digital Innovation Lab putting on a Microsoft Hololens headset. Photo: CPL Bill Solomou
Supporting the next generation
Right: AIRCDRE Sue McGready and PROF Graham Durant signing a memorandum of understanding, which will see Defence and Questacon work together to deliver Engineering is Elementary.
DEFENCE and Questacon have joined forces to grow the next generation of STEM-capable innovators and leaders.
Director-General Defence Force Recruiting AIRCDRE Sue McGready joined Director Questacon PROF Graham Durant on July 25 to sign a memorandum of understanding, which will see Defence and Questacon work together to deliver Engineering is Elementary.
The Engineering is Elementary
program equips Australian teachers to deliver exciting and engaging content for students aged 10 to 13 years, across Years 5-7.
Defence will support the roll-out of the program from late 2019.
Defence shares a stake in build-ing the national STEM talent pool, which must grow in order to deliver the number of STEM-capable Australians required to meet future workforce demands.
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Eamon Hamilton
HERCULES aircraft are a familiar sight in the skies over the central NSW town of Lake Cargelligo but rarely do crews get to meet the locals.
So the excitement was obvious when the people of Lake Cargelligo had a chance to tour a 37SQN C-130J.
As with the visit to the rural NSW town of Gilgandra in early June, it was the first chance for Air Force personnel to engage with local Indigenous com-munities during a Hercules visit.
This inc luded a t radi t ional Welcome to Country and a chance to speak to Air Force Indigenous Liaison Officers.
Students from local pre-schools, a primary school and a high school also checked out the aircraft.
FLTLT Tjapukai Shaw, the
Indigenous Liaison Officer for 22SQN, said Lake Cargelligo had received the visitors warmly.
“The local Aboriginal Land Council wants to know if we can do it annually,” FLTLT Shaw said.
“There are many in the commu-nity who might not understand what it is we do, why it’s important or even whether it’s a pathway that’s open to them.”
Joining him on the flight to Lake Cargelligo were fellow Indigenous Liaison Officers from RAAF Bases Williamtown and Wagga, and from the Canberra region.
All four posted into their current roles in January.
“Having the four of us with the Hercules in Lake Cargelligo allowed us to share that experience across our network,” FLTLT Shaw said.
“Seeing how other units and bases forge relationships with communities allows each of us to bring that experi-ence to our bases and apply it across the RAAF.
“All of the Indigenous Liaison Officers are bringing a variety of experiences to their role and there are things one of us might be aware of that others haven’t seen.”
Lake Cargelligo’s 4000ft unsur-faced runway is one of several across rural NSW that have been used for decades to train Hercules aircrew.
These communities are accustomed to Hercules flying around the airfield at low level, by day and night, con-ducting numerous touch-and-go land-ings from the unsurfaced airstrip.
CO 37SQN WGCDR Ben Christie said experience translated into support to real-world operations.
FLTLT Tracey Li
TEN proud student pilots completed the first phase of Air Force ab initio flying training at RAAF Base East Sale on July 12.
Each student had undergone five months of pilot training, including about 250 hours of theory instruc-tion, 30 hours of simulator instruc-tion and 40 hours of flying in the Pilatus PC-21.
They were also the first students to march out from the newly recom-missioned 1FTS and the first Air Force pilots to conduct ab initio training in the PC-21 – the world’s most advanced pilot training aircraft.
CO 1FTS WGCDR Chris Pouncey congratulated the students for completing one of the most chal-lenging courses in Air Force.
“You are another step closer to becoming qualified pilots – men and
PC-21’s first graduates
women who play key roles in gen-erating Australia’s air power for the defence of our national interests,” he said.
The students will proceed to the next phase of their pilot training at 2FTS at RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia.
The second 1FTS ab initio pilot course commenced training in April and is scheduled to be completed later this year.
Air Force is transitioning to the PC-21 trainer as part of the most significant technological upgrade in its 98-year history.
Rare chance to touch base
“The Lake Cargelligo community may not realise it but their continued support ensures we’re ready to deploy during times of need,” WGCDR Christie said.
“A crew f ly ing f rom Lake Cargelligo or Gilgandra one week might find themselves deployed to the
Middle East Region the next week, or supporting humanitarian operations in the immediate region.
“We don’t often have an opportu-nity to stop and talk to the community, but when we do we’re overwhelmed by the positivity. It’s a very special experience for the crews.”
Indigenous Liaison Officer FLTLT Judy Bell meets Tniqua Wilson, right, and Lillyanna Fell during a community engagement visit to Lake Cargelligo. Photos: SGT Christopher Dickson
Loadmaster SGT Sam Bax introduces Alex Templeton and Lacey Munro, from Lake Cargelligo Early Learning Centre, to the Hercules.
The first Air Force student pilots to conduct initial training in the PC-21 have graduated from 1FTS.
16 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FNews
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17August 8, 2019RCEAIR F Training
FLTLT Tracey Li
FOURTEEN graduates from No. 155 Pilot Course returned to No. 2 Flying Training School to celebrate their cen-turion – the unit’s completion of 100 courses since their graduation in June, 1991.
The centurions also witnessed the graduation of No. 255 Advanced Pilot Course and celebrated with 2FTS staff and students.
Commander Air Force Training Group AIRCDRE Glen Braz, a centu-rion of 155 course, said the 255 course
graduation ceremony was an emotional event for all the centurions.
“I remember the day we marched out from 2FTS like it was yesterday,” AIRCDRE Braz said.
“I also remember the moment I received my wings at graduation – it remains one of the proudest moments of my life.
“It was a fantastic course and I truly enjoyed the bond and camarade-rie we created. I am so glad we main-tained contact over the past 28 years.”
After completing advanced pilot training, the graduates from 155 course
went on to have exciting careers in the ADF – some continued with their mili-tary service and many have excelled in their civilian roles.
AIRCDRE Braz said he was proud of the 1FTS (formerly Basic Flying Training School) and 2FTS teams for providing the highest standard of train-ing to its students.
“Thank you to all the staff for your professionalism and commitment; you have brought out the best in our stu-dents and well done for helping them across the finish line,” he said.
“Congratulations to all the students
for achieving this impressive mile-stone. You are about to embark upon a big journey that’s full of great chal-lenges, fun and adventure.”
Andrew Ellis, 155 course centurion and a former C-130 pilot now fly-ing B777s with Cathay Pacific, said he enjoyed attending the 255 course graduation.
“Seeing the young graduates from 255 course was a great thrill,” Mr Ellis said.
“Like our course, the students are educated, talented and have created a strong bond amongst them. I also
noticed another similarity – our course said farewell to the Macchi aircraft and welcomed the PC-9 trainer, whereas the 255 course is one of the last cours-es flying the PC-9 as Air Force transi-tions to the PC-21.
“I am really excited for the 255 course graduates as they will get to experience the latest technology and capabilities in their careers.
“I am also happy for them, as the students will have a lifetime of sharing memories and reunions with their pilot course mates.”
Thundering to the finish linePeta Magorian
SENSATIONAL thunderstorms were the backdrop for the No. 255 Advanced Pilot Course graduation, with the latest graduates recognised for their newly acquired precision piloting techniques.
Celebrations with family and friends took place at No. 2 Flying Training School, RAAF Base Pearce, where graduates received their ‘wings’ from reviewing officer AIRCDRE Glen Braz.
“Your hard work so far has set the foundation for your continued achieve-ment as officers and aviators in a diverse and highly skilled team that generates airpower – often behind the scenes,” AIRCDRE Braz said.
Four graduates were presented tro-phies in recognition of achieving the highest scores against the course’s seven awarded categories.
PLTOFF William Toy was award-ed the Government Aircraft Factories and DJ Friedrichs ‘Aerobatics’ Trophy and PLTOFF Jason Clark was award-ed the BP (Australia) Ltd Trophy for the ‘Highest Aggregate of Academic Marks’.
PLTOFF Angus Williams received two awards: the RAAF Association (WA Division) trophy for ‘Most Improved’ and the Returned Services League Trophy for ‘Leadership’.
PLTOFF Nicholas Thompson received four awards: the SJ Goble Memorial Trophy for the ‘Most Proficient Pilot’, the G. Scutt/E. Davey
Memorial Trophy for ‘Instrument Flying’, Defence’s Welfare Association Prize for ‘Navigation’ and the Pilatus Trophy for Dux of No. 255 Advanced Pilot Course.
AIRCDRE Braz’s address acknowl-edged the role and achievements of the graduates, as well as the proud family and friends who assisted them in achiev-ing their goal.
“Embrace the opportunity to enjoy heartfelt celebration with family and friends by your side. We are proud, as you should be, of your achievements. Your family, friends and colleagues have been there for you and will con-tinue to do so,” AIRCDRE Braz said.
The pilots have now moved onto dif-ferent flying platforms across the coun-try to build their skills and inspire the next generation of RAAF recruits.
‘Your hard work
so far has set the foundation for your continued achievement
as officers and aviators.– AIRCDRE Glen Braz
Century celebration
Members of No. 155 Pilot Course, from left, Martin West, Greg Taylor, Stephen Ryan, GPCAPT Brendan Rogers, Simon Roberts, Dave Glasson, AIRCDRE Glen Braz, CAPT Paul Mogagh RAN, Chris Huet, Dave Holt, Mick Aspinall, Paul Hoskinson and Andrew Ellis celebrate their course centurion at RAAF Base Pearce.
PLTOFF Nicholas Thompson receives the Pilatus Trophy for Dux of No. 255 Advanced Pilot Course.
Ph: 07 5495 8259www.spitpolished.com.au
• Unit Plaques
• Desk Name Bars • Canes & Stands
• Challenge Coins
• Sculptures
• History Plaques & BoxesSPIT POLISHED PRESENTATIONS
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18 August 8, 2019RCEAIR FFlightline
Below: Members of teams playing in the Don McSweeny Aboriginal Land Cup test their skills at an Indigenous Leadership Day held at RAAF Base Edinburgh on July 17. Photo: CPL Brenton Kwaterski
Above: Janelle Hartnett feels the weight of the Tiered Body Armour System (TBAS) during a visit to the Role 2 Medical Facility at Shoalwater Bay Training Area during Exercise Boss Lift from July 12-14. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman
Above: A dinner and night of celebration was held to embrace the new shared home of the RAAF Base Wagga Officers’ Mess and the Sergeants’ Mess, now named the ‘Beaufighter Mess’. Attendees included current President of the Mess Committee of the Officers’ Mess (PMC) SQNLDR Robert Dias, far right, with fomer PMCs, from left, AIRCDRE Bob Rodgers, GPCAPT Andrew Ratz, GPCAPT Peter Gibb, WGCDR Anthony Wennerbom, GPCAPT Chris Ellison and WGCDR Peter Hall.
LACW Ash Horsburgh, of 37SQN, assists Matilda with her seat belt while touring a C-130J Hercules during an Air Force community engagement visit to Lake Cargelligo on July 24. Photo: SGT Christopher Dickson
Working Dog Handler CPL Mitchell Anderson, left, introduces foster program puppy Marvin to Carl Natta and his son Harrison during the Century Batteries Ipswich SuperSprint held at the Queensland Raceway at Willowbank, July 26-28. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd
FLTLT Anna Lovatt chats to student Tamasina Johnson-Bonner during a flight in a 33SQN KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport for NAIDOC Week. Photo: CPL Jesse Kane
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19August 8, 2019RCEAIR F Sp rt
SGT Dave Morley
HISTORY was made in Adelaide when, for the first time, all officials in an ice hockey competition were not only Air Force mem-bers but all FLTLTs.
The Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) match, between the Sydney Ice Dogs and Adelaide Adrenaline, was officiated by ADF Ice Hockey Association members FLTLTs Mitchell Brown, Christopher Parks and Pete Cunningham.
The FLTLTs are all maritime patrol and response officers serving at 292SQN, 11SQN and Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU) at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
ADF Ice Hockey Association secretary FLTLT Cunningham said the game was high-ly physical, giving the crowd plenty to cheer about and the officials no shortage of work.
“The speed and skill demonstrated by both teams highlighted the exciting level of ice hockey on show in Australia,” he said.
“Due to the high deployment rate and fre-
quency of 92WG, the unlikely occurrence of having all three officials being available and rostered on, only occurred in this match.”
P-8A Poseidon tactical coordinator at 11SQN and game referee FLTLT Parks said it was always a great time officiating at the top level of Australian ice hockey.
“It wasn’t until after the game we realised we had just been the first all-Defence offi-cials team for the AIHL and making it even more unique was that we are all maritime patrol and response officers,” he said.
“While it isn’t impossible, it is unlikely to happen again in the near future.”
FLTLTs Parks and Cunningham have been AIHL officials for more than 10 years, while FLTLT Brown is in his third year.
All three officers look forward to the upcoming ADF Ice Hockey triservice carni-val at RAAF Base Richmond from November 17 to 23.
If you want to know more about ADF Ice Hockey, or would like to get involved in the November carnival, contact [email protected]
The first all-Defence officials team, from left, FLTLT Mitchell Brown, of 292SQN, FLTLT Chris Parks, of 11SQN, and FLTLT Pete Cunningham, of ARDU.
Keeping their cool
“Then, in the week before the 2005 AFL grand final, I was in Melbourne helping at the MCG with Air Force and also sought a second opinion.
“This cardiologist said, ‘Why can’t you play? Go and play football and be happy’. ”
CPL Purdon had a guard made to protect the pacemaker and, the day after the grand final, he started training again.
“In 2006 I made my comeback playing for the Air Force national team, ADF AFL team and finished off the season as captain of the Cerberus football team,” he said.
“I’d achieved more than I wanted to and thought, ‘That’s enough, I can retire now, pretty happy’. After that, I started running with my wife, Jodie.”
CPL Purdon enjoys running races from 800m to marathon length, including masters athletics, having previously achieved three Australian championships in the 5km, 10km and 8km cross-country at the Australian Masters Athletics Championships.
“In the meantime, I will concentrate on doing different running races in and around Canberra, Sydney and also a half-marathon in Honolulu while on holiday,” he said.
“I am also getting into cycling and starting road and criterium racing this year to bolster my cycling.”
He is a member of the ADF Triathlon Club and ADF Running and Athletics Club, and will join the ADF Cycling Club this year.
CPL Purdon said his inspiration comes from two people.
“I’ve met former Australian marathon run-ner Lee Troop a number of times. He ran three
Finding the heart for the hard yards
Olympic marathons and I’ve found him to be pret-ty inspirational. I showed him the article on me by Running 4 Your Life and he said he was inspired by my story. We still keep in contact and he’ll often congratulate me after significant races,” he said.
“My wife is also my inspiration, knowing how dedicated she is to her training.”
Continued from back page
CPL Lance Purdon warms
up for the duathlon in
Berry.
SP RTAugust 8, 2019
Page 19
CPL Lance Purdon on his bike before a duathlon in Berry, which he hopes is a precursor to a spot in the Ironman World Championship.
A PACEMAKER didn’t stop CPL Lance Purdon from achieving his dream of play-ing AFL for Air Force. Now
his focus is making the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii.
CPL Purdon’s latest race was a duathlon in Berry, NSW, on July 27, where he placed fifth in his age group and 48th out of 149 competitors.
He is not new to duathlons, having represented Australia in the sport in 2008.
“I’m not as fit as I’d like to be but I did okay. I think it’s the post-ironman blues, because I’d done a couple of massive races close together,” CPL Purdon said.
“I always look forward to a race; to competing and being among like-minded people.”
CPL Purdon completed the iron-man triathlon at Lake Taupo, New
Zealand, in March, followed by the Ironman Port Macquarie in May. He aims to finish 12 ironmans in suc-cessive years to open a door to the Ironman World Championship.
“Doing 12 ironman triathlons with no years skipped qualifies someone to put their name down to be selected for the legacy program,” CPL Purdon said.
“I may get to do the world champi-onships in 2022 or even later.
“The wait is OK though, as I will have gone up an age group by then.”
CPL Purdon started triathlons because he tired of watching his wife, Jodie, do ironmans while he was bored for 10 to 14 hours.
“She’s much better than me. She’s already done seven Hawaiian iron-mans,” he said.
“I’m probably more a runner. When it comes to swimming, she beats me every time.”
Pushing the limits of his body and challenging his mental capacity also appealed to CPL Purdon.
“I am not looking to finish first in my age group, which would be out of reach anyway, but to challenge myself to finish such a gruelling race, which takes more mental capacity than phys-ical,” he said.
“I could do much better if I did train more. However, I take pride in my work and I like to spend time with my family, so training comes last and can be very sporadic or almost non-ex-istent at times.
“The day I know I’ll be competing in the Ironman World Championship I’ll be dedicating myself to a full six months’ training.
“I also have a cardiac pacemaker, which makes things a little more interesting.”
In his late 20s, CPL Purdon was
diagnosed with sick sinus syndrome (SSS), a condition where the heart’s natural pacemaker, the sinus node, doesn’t work properly.
The effect was a slowing of the heart rate, which increased the risk of cardiac arrest, stroke or heart failure.
In 2003, he received a pacemaker to maintain a regular heart rate, which also has a separate programmer kept at his health clinic and monitored by a nurse or doctor.
CPL Purdon didn’t know how much of a hindrance it might be.
“It wasn’t until a couple of days after that I realised how big it was,” he said.
“To have something put inside you and two leads going into your heart, it was pretty big and I was very con-scious of it for quite some time.
“I just had to learn to deal with it. Now it doesn’t bother me whatsoever.
RACING HEART
More sport: Referees make
history on the ice
A dodgy ticker has not stopped this athlete from chasing his dreams, CPL Veronica O’Hara writes.
Continued on page 19
But I was tentative for nearly two years as I got used to it. It has made me look at life in a better light and not take things for granted.
“That’s a big reason why I am not so focused on coming first and because I am a people person. It’s great to meet people from all around the world and race alongside others who all have their own stories.”
CPL Purdon loved playing Aussie Rules but was initially told not to play contact sports as a result of his implant.
“I was captain of the RAAF Aussie Rules team and living life. Football was like my religion,” he said.
“After that was taken away, I didn’t do a great deal until I got into coach-ing for the Tindal Magpies and Air Force team.
