STANDING STRONG - SPECIAL EDITION Operation Bushfire Assist: Pages 2-14 - Department of Defence
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Edition 1458 February 6, 2020 The soldiers’ newspaper SPECIAL EDITION Operation Bushfire Assist: Pages 2-14 STANDING Soldiers from 7RAR work with livestock specialist Grace Calder, Agriculture Victoria, to move a bale of animal feed within sight of STRONG a Chinook near Jackson’s Crossing and north along the Snowy River, Victoria. Photo: Pte Michael Currie
2 Operation Bushfire Assist READ US ONLINE Web: defence.gov.au/news/armynews While there, register to receive an email alert for each new digital edition OUR TEAM Director David Edlington Managing editor Richard Mihaich Editor Jessica Deotto: (02) 6266 7067 Reporters Sgt Max Bree Sgt Dave Morley Cpl Sebastian Beurich Cpl Veronica O’Hara Cpl Julia Whitwell LS Kylie Jagiello armynews@defencenews.gov.au The Editor, Army News, CO HMAS Albatross Capt Robyn Phillips RAN updates Maj-Gen Justin Ellwood on the local bushfire situation. Photo: Sgt Bill Solomou R1-GF-C039, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600 Leading by Advertising and subscriptions Marketing Manager Tim Asher: (07) 3332 7651 or 0459 842 551 example Assistant Marketing Manager Pam Clarke: (02) 6265 2427 advertising@defencenews.gov.au or subscriptions1@defencenews.gov.au DISCLAIMER Army News is published fortnightly by Maj-Gen Justin Ellwood communities. While I say thank you Maj-Gen Justin Ellwood meets workers and good luck to those forces that of the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park the Defence News Bureau. It is printed TO ALL commanders, soldiers, have left or are leaving, it is important while visiting ADF personnel on by Spotpress Pty Ltd. The material published is selected for its interest. sailors, airmen and women: as the to note the job is far from over. There Kangaroo Island, South Australia. The views expressed in published National Emergency Coordinator for is still work to be done. Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy articles are not necessarily those of ADF’s response to the bushfire crisis, This work is arduous, relentless Defence or Army News. Every adver- I want to thank Regular and Reserve and can at times be exceptionally tisement is subject to Defence News members who have supported this dangerous. Bureau approval and the Bureau may, vitally important endeavour. The environment we are working at its discretion, refuse to accept an At the start of my tenure I asked in is unforgiving. advertisement. The Bureau accepts no you all to lean forward and support We will continue to work with state responsibility or liability in relation to any our emergency management services and national emergency and recovery loss due to the failure of an advertise- and the community. agencies to finish what we started. ment to appear or if it appears in a form I asked you to act, without being While we will continue to respond not in accordance with the instructions prompted. to local emergencies as they arise, received by the Defence News Bureau. I asked you to make a difference. it is the national and state recovery Defence does not endorse the To every man and woman, you agencies that will lead the long-term products or services published in answered that call. recovery we now principally support. advertisements. I have had recounted to me and We will have Regular forces and have personally witnessed actions that volunteer reservists continuing this are too many in number to relay here. important work, although we will Actions that are extreme in their continue to respond and provide relief diversity of scale, some massive, as emergencies arise. OTHER ARMY AND such as the evacuation of Mallacoota This bushfire season is far from DEFENCE CHANNELS in Victoria, the recovery of downed over. aircraft in NSW and the provision of Our job is not done until the army.gov.au drinkable water on Kangaroo Island relevant state and national authorities in South Australia, all the way to the declare it so. smallest acts of kindness, such as Until that day, every day counts in facebook.com/ helping people gain access to their making a difference to our community. AustralianArmy properties or nursing injured koalas. I thank you again for your service Regardless of their scale, all and I personally look forward to youtube.com/ actions have been exceptionally continuing our important work AustralianArmyHQ meaningful to our community. supporting Operation Bushfire Assist. I have received nothing but praise There is no greater honour than from our Emergency Management serving our nation. Services, who have done such Let’s continue to make our fellow ISSN: 0729-5685 (Print) amazing work, and of course our Australians proud. ISSN: 2209-2218 (Online)
February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews Operation Bushfire Assist 3 Supporting the nation CA Lt-Gen Rick Burr almost 3000 Reservists commit support for as long as needed, to this national effort as a result helping our communities in AS WE begin 2020, it has of the Governor-General’s call- their time of need. already been a busy year. out on January 4. We will also review the 2020 The bushfires across our To everyone involved, I program to ensure we main- country have demanded a thank you for your personal tain momentum, achieve our commitment and the support priorities and that we provide significant response and I am and understanding of your fami- opportunities to be with family proud of the contribution of our lies and employers. I trust that Army to that effort. you are proud of your contribu- and friends. At the peak of our support to tion to this national emergency. Thank you for the work you CA Lt-Gen Rick Burr arrives on Operation Bushfire Assist, we have done; you exemplify an board HMAS Adelaide during Alongside our Defence Operation Bushfire Assist. had about 5000 Army people teammates, you have demon- Army in Motion, serving our Photo: AB Thomas Sawtell and significant equipment and strated the very best of Good nation and communities. Keep major capabilities from across Soldiering as well as what it at it. Stay focused and safe. our entire Army deployed. means to be an Army in Motion. Best wishes for 2020 and Notably, we have seen We will continue to provide Good Soldiering. CA Lt-Gen Rick Burr thanks members of the New Zealand Defence Force for their assistance to the Kangaroo Island community. Photo: LCpl Brodie Cross Soldiers assist in unloading donated goods at the Milton Showground within A Chinook from 5 Avn Regt the Shoalhaven district, NSW. about to be loaded with hay Photo: Sgt Bill Solomou bales to deliver to remote bushfire-affected farms on Kangaroo Island. Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy
4 Operation Bushfire Assist No job too big or small Strike teams in Former beekeeper Tpr Daniel Byford, of 1 Armd Regt, checks on beehives damaged in the Kangaroo Island bushfires at the Hanson Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy the thick of it Capt Carla Armenti ALMOST 500 1 Bde soldiers have deployed to support bushfire-affected communities in the south-east of the country. The Darwin- and Adelaide-based soldiers flew in to support local authorities, volunteer agencies and other ADF personnel contributing to the effort. Commander 1 Bde Brig Ash Collingburn said there was no shortage of willing bodies within the brigade ready to support when the callout was received. “As Army’s high-readiness combat brigade we main- tain personnel over the Christmas leave period on high readiness to assist in the event of these types of short- notice emergencies,” Brig Collingburn said. “While we had people on standby ready to go when the call came, I had soldiers calling in asking to be recalled from leave so that they could join the effort. “Like all Australians, our people have been watching this crisis unfold as it has been reported in the media and they have been shocked and deeply moved by the devasta- tion caused.” Infantryman Pte Joshua Coleman, of 7RAR, wit- nessed the devastation to the bush from the window of a Singaporean Chinook. “We flew out to Combienbar and as I looked out the window it was an eerie juxtaposition between the very green lively coast and black dead forests,” Pte Coleman said. Despite the devastation, another 7RAR soldier, Cpl Todd Madden, said he was impressed by the Australian fighting spirit amid the crisis. “There was a willingness from these men and women [residents affected by fire] to not only continue to perse- vere in the face of remarkable adversity, but an insistence to help those worse off than others,” Cpl Madden said. To make the job safer, a Bushmaster is used to pull down a tree near Wonboyn Lake (top) as Spr James Denton and While the majority of the soldiers worked to deliver LCpl Stephen Bayliss, both of 5ER, cut it with a chainsaw. It was one of 2570 dangerous or fallen trees removed by the essential supplies to townships and aid in recovery efforts, regiment. Photos: Sgt Max Bree others assisted with caring and rehabilitating native ani- mals whose habitats have been affected. Sgt Max Bree two days make huge progress Some tasks came through show that the ADF and the rest Tpr Daniel Byford, who is on Kangaroo Island with on the task – he feels positive formal command channels, of the country has not forgotten 1 Armd Regt, called upon his previous beekeeping AS 5ER Task Group moved momentum and he can complete while others were suggested them.” skills to help save some of the local bees after the fires down the NSW south coast, they the job. Instead of overwhelmed by local councils. A number of The task group also spent destroyed about 800 beehives. found areas reeling from recent he feels empowered.” compassionate cases were also about $56,800 buying local bushfires, some still burning, Numbering about 350 to 400, identified by soldiers. supplies, such as food and fuel. others in danger of reigniting. the task group is believed to be Any tasks that would take less Apart from medical and ORDER NOW FOR ANZAC DAY “The community was worried, you could feel it. We needed to the first centred on an engineer than 24 hours could be assigned logistics soldiers, the task group regiment. at Lt-Col Kidson’s authority. included a number of chaplains provide immediate reassurance Sam Brownes and help trigger the natural It comprised of three company-sized response teams. “The hardest part was prioritising; there were so many who conducted 27 welfare sessions with the community. resiliency of the community,” Some featured plant equipment people who needed help,” she The task group drew heavily said task group commander while some rode in Bushmasters said. from Army reservists called out Lt-Col Renee Kidson. as chainsaw teams. “Needing to exercise for Operation Bushfire Assist, Douglas Leather Bringing with them a range of plant equipment and chainsaws, Ranks of sappers were boosted by infantry and judgement on what tasks we but as the callout comes to an Quality leather products could reasonably achieve was end on February 7, operations their task was to relieve fire- cavalrymen from 5 Bde. always a difficult thing. on the NSW south coast will affected communities and assist Soldiers conducted 174 home “Maj-Gen Ellwood told us at transition to full-time soldiers civil response from Nowra to the visits and delivered 72,000kg of the start, ‘Let no asset go idle’ – and reservists who volunteer to Victorian boarder. fodder and 600 litres of diesel. that never happened. We tried to stay. They headquartered in Bega Ta s k g r o u p b u l l d o z e r s provide the greatest good to the “It was routine for people and callsigns were tasked in the helped flatten and extinguish greatest number.” to stop us as we were walking first 48 hours, with initial patrols smouldering mulch piles at the Giant water trucks belonging down the street and thank us for entering Cobargo and Quaama on Eden woodchip mill. to the task group travelled the our contribution – you can see January 9. Some community members region delivering 286,000 litres in their eyes just how grateful ~ Military Sam Brownes and accessories Within the next 16 days they thanked soldiers on the street of non-potable and 50,000 litres they are. And kids just love to ~ Handmade and custom sizing cleared 928km of road, removed but in a more extreme case, of potable water. be shown around a Bushmaster,” ~ Parade-ready polishing service 10% OFF 2570 fallen or dangerous trees one sought refuge with sappers “I’ve heard of people using Lt-Col Kidson said. Mention this ~ 100% genuine Italian leather advertisement and repaired more than 14km of isolated by fire in Eurobodalla. their house water tank – down “A man who owns a local ~ Available in black and brown to receive a 10% fencing. “Among the evacuees a lady to the last litre – to defend their coffee van said that before we discount off all ~ Local family business orders before the “A landholder looking at walked up to our tents and said property and because of the arrived, children would draw ~ Competitive pricing end of February kilometres of damaged fencing ‘I feel safe with you, will you drought they had no water left,” pictures of smoke, flames and www.douglasleather.com.au might feel overwhelmed,” Lt-Col take care of me?’” Lt-Col Kidson Lt-Col Kidson said. fire. But now they draw Army Facebook - @douglasleatherproducts Kidson said. said. “But our water tankers have trucks and Bushmasters and say, douglasleather@gmail.com “Yet one of our strike teams “ We w r a p p e d o u r a r m s been able to go to people’s ‘Daddy, I want to be in the Army 0423 233 102 can get in there and in just around this lady.” houses, refill their tanks and when I grow up’.”
February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews Operation Bushfire Assist 5 International forces Maj Cameron Jamieson countryside from the open side door of the NH90s as they criss-crossed over south-east ROYAL New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) NSW. NH90 helicopters and their crews have Cpl Cane transferred from the Territorial provided sterling service in Australia, lift- Army to the Air Force in 2017, and his ini- ing their fair share of the load in the battle tial ideas about life as an aircrewman have against the bushfires. been surpassed. In the skies over Canberra, the NH90s of “It’s been everything and more,” Cpl RNZAF’s 3 Sqn could be seen delivering air Cane said. mobile response teams from 7RAR to bush “I wasn’t sure about what I would get clearings in the surrounding native forests, out of it, but the people I am surrounded by, where the soldiers were clearing access the jobs I’ve been able to go away and do, tracks and helicopter landing points for the and the people I have been able to help have ACT’s Emergency Services Agency. made it incredibly fulfilling.” The helicopters proved ideal for the task, Cpl Cane was notified on a Saturday capable of carrying 12 passengers or a mix- afternoon that he was needed for overseas ture of personnel and equipment. service, and on the Monday he was on his The helicopters also winched soldiers and their chainsaws into overgrown landing way to HMAS Albatross at Nowra on the points for clearance operations. NSW south coast. For 3 Sqn pilot Flt-Lt Loic Ifrah, the He said the events that unfolded from opportunity to serve in Australia was an then were very powerful. honour. “The level of devastation south of Nowra “It’s great to help out our partners across was quite intense,” he said. the Tasman,” Flt-Lt Ifrah said. “I know we are definitely doing what we The unfortunate circumstances of the can – delivering fuel and fodder to isolated aviator’s deployment brought extremely communities. challenging flying situations where every- “We’ve also been taking 7RAR infantry one’s skills have been taxed to the limit. “We’ve had conditions where visibility has been reduced to almost nothing,” he said. into the forests to create firebreaks outside of Canberra. “For me, the biggest thing has been meet- Watch video at: youtube.com/watch?v=v2fjJI6cSIU “They’re conditions we haven’t experi- ing the people. In times like these it’s really enced in New Zealand.” great to see the communities come together.” Cpl Bruce Cane, a 3 Sqn helicopter Three RNZAF multi-role helicopters RNZAF loadmaster Cpl Callum Waller, right, prepares LCpl Andrew Roberts, of 7RAR, for loadmaster, has seen plenty of Australian began arriving in Australia on January 7. winching down from an NH90 helicopter in Canberra. Photo: Sig Robert Whitmore Standing side by side in time of need Cpl Sebastian Beurich with Australia goes back a long way,” to affected communities, protection of Maj Gwaibo said. critical infrastructure and communica- MORE than 150 ADF and Papua “Our engineers have trained with tions nodes and, importantly, com- New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) the soldiers we’ll be working with, munity engagement to assist people in engineers have been active in East they’ve done exercises together, so returning to normalcy,” Maj Jankalns Gippsland during Operation Bushfire we’re very comfortable operating with said. Assist. them. With months of firefighting efforts Task Group Dingo is headed by “For many years, Australians remaining, Swift’s Creek ICC Deputy Maj Benjamin Jankalns, of 3CER, and have come to our aid in our time of Incident Controller Emma Conway Maj Gabriel Gwaibo, of the PNGDF, need, so now we’re here to help them said she was excited to have the and is based out of Omeo, Victoria. and we’re humbled and honoured to Australian and PNG soldiers ready to After travelling to Australia aboard be part of the team helping out help. two RAAF C-130J Hercules aircraft, communities.” “A lot of our secondary access Maj Gwaibo said his contingent of With the planning and com- roads are closed – hundreds of 99 soldiers was “humbled and hon- mand teams both being staffed by kilometres of roads that need to be oured” to be working with soldiers Australians and Papua New Guineans, assessed and cleared,” Ms Conway with whom they had a long-standing Maj Jankalns said previous experi- said. relationship. ences with disaster relief made for a “Task Group Dingo is also going “We have other disasters at home, capable team. to be integrated into things like but this is new for us. We know where “Our jobs include supporting the our vehicle maintenance schedules Soldiers from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force check chainsaws we’re going to be working and what incident control centre’s (ICC) road and our medical and logistics before heading to Omeo, Victoria. Photo: Pte Madhur Chitnis we’ll be doing and our relationship clearance capability to enable access capabilities.” Do you want a PHAT Tax Return? 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6 Operation Bushfire Assist Toll hits close to home Cpl Julia Whitwell AMONG the almost 600 Army Reservists called out to South Australia and Tasmania for Operation Bushfire Assist, the task was especially Watch an interview with Lt Kynan Lang at: youtube.com/watch?v=5MymcFUyXJs personal for Lt Kynan Lang, a logistics officer from 9CSSB. He had just learnt his uncle, Richard “Dick” Lang, and his cousin, Clayton “Clarrie” Lang, had been killed in the inferno on Kangaroo Island when he was called to assist there. “I had an alert on my phone saying that two people were killed in the fires, and when my father rang to tell me it was Dick and Clarrie, it all became very real,” Lt Lang said. Dick and Clarrie Lang, who Kangaroo Island residents described as “larger than life”, had been in their vehicle with a trailer and water tank, helping farmers contain the fires, when they became caught in the blaze. On Saturday night, January 4, Lt Lang was called to duty, and the next morning he was at Keswick Barracks with a reserve force, headed Lt Kynan Lang kneels beside part of the melted remains of the vehicle to Kangaroo Island. his uncle and cousin were travelling in when they died; and above, the Lt Lang said he was approached makeshift memorial he placed at the site. Photos: Cpl Tristan Kennedy by locals there as soon as they realised who he was. “They saw my name on my shirt, on the other hand she had just lost munity to restore their livelihoods. “The fire was a faceless enemy While on the island, he travelled and knowing there was another Lang everything. All I could do was hug “We had soldiers fixing tractors for that we couldn’t contain, so it was to the scene of their deaths to erect a around reduced them to tears,” Lt Lang her back.” farmers after the tyres had melted off great being able to support those makeshift memorial. said. Lt Lang coordinated personnel, the rims, and we had RAEME sol- who could.” “They were helping the communi- “A farmer’s wife hugged me at equipment and stores in support of diers refurbishing the fire trucks as Lt Lang said he was proud to be ty and they were stopped from doing the side of the road and it took me the South Australia Country Fire they came in for shift changes, so we part of Operation Bushfire Assist on what they wanted to do. It was nice by surprise. Having the uniform on, Service’s efforts to fight the could refuel them and get them fit to Kangaroo Island, to pick up where knowing I could continue the work you have to keep a stiff upper lip, but ongoing fire and assist the com- fight again,” he said. his relatives left off. they died doing,” Lt Lang said.
February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews Operation Bushfire Assist 7 Proud to help Spr Aemon Kelly, right, drives a wedge into a chainsaw cut for Spr Tim Daniels to continue cross-cutting a fallen tree blocking Commission Road in Wollemi National Park, NSW. Photo: Maj Cameron Jamieson Clearing the way for a safe journey through Maj Cameron Jamieson us, and I found we gelled well, we briefed well, and there was good A COMPOSITE troop of Army communication.” Pte Brodie Scott from Reserve engineers used bulldozers, Out in the devastated fire- Mallacoota, Victoria, hugs chainsaws and plenty of muscle to grounds, the engineers made fast progress, with grateful responses her parents, Kathy and help clear secondary roads in the Marty Scott, upon returning from residents. Hunter Valley, NSW. Watch video at: home as part of the ADF Based out of the Hunter Valley For Cpl Nathan Lawley, an entry trail clearance of Commission Road youtube.com/watch?v=nZIHn8jKx7g bushfire support. Fire Control Centre and under the Photo: Cpl Nicole Dorrett direction of the multi-agency Incident in Wollemi National Park led to Management Team, the 39 soldiers hearing about a narrow escape from of Composite Engineer Troop 4 an ex-soldier who stayed to defend Flg-Off Brent Moloney She transported diesel through- to come back to keep fighting, his property. out Mallacoota to run generators they did. worked on making roads and tracks “A man named Peter told us he A SOLDIER deployed on at the power station supporting the accessible to residents and emer- “They’re the reason our house had been trapped for about a week Operation Bushfire Assist had the area, as well as to fuel ADF sup- gency services alike through Yengo because of the damage to his access is still standing.” and Wollemi National Parks. chance to reunite with her fam- port vehicles and firefighting crew Pte Scott’s mother, Kathy, was track,” Cpl Lawley said. Deputy Incident Controller Phil “He had already tried to clear his ily, who had been trapped by the vehicles. excited to see her daughter return Bryant, of the National Parks and driveway but hadn’t been able to get flames in the Mallacoota inferno. The community was pleased and had the highest praise for all Wildlife Service (NSW), said the area too far. He was very happy to see us. Pte Brodie Scott, who became to see her and all the other ADF the agencies involved during the had been hit hard by the fires. “He said when the fire came a Reserve driver specialist after a personnel in town to help. bushfires. “We tasked the Army to help clear through, he could hear the roar of the gap year in Army in 2017, returned Local residents and fam- public roads and access trails so home as part of Victoria’s JTF646, “It’s been hard not having our fire through the valley. ily friends of Pte Scott, Barb and people could get to their homes in the ADF-wide support to state Drew Morland, live in one of girls [Brodie and her sister] here,” “The wind dropped just as it got the aftermath of the fire,” Mr Bryant to his house, but if it hadn’t, it would authorities. Mallacoota’s worst-affected areas. Mrs Scott said. said. have roared through and he wouldn’t Pte Scott, of 4CSSB, reflected “My son and my husband were “It’s been amazing having the “Basically, they worked to create have survived. on how great the chance was to amazing,” Mrs Morland said. emergency services around to safe passage for the people who use “He said he would never hang get out and help, especially in her “They stayed to protect our assist.” those trails. around again; next time you will find home town. “To know that mum house until it was no longer safe, Pte Scott’s father, Marty, said “They were keen to work with him at the beach.” and dad were still there during the then headed down to the beach. the family was “very proud that fires was terrifying,” Pte Scott said. “When they saw an opportunity Brodie put her hand up”. CALL US FOR A A reserve of skills FREE QUOTE Capt Cameron Jamieson ARMY Reserve infantry soldiers We really love helping create unique literally swung into action in south- east NSW, thanks to their rapid call- medallions and after so many years of up and some chainsaw training from the School of Military Engineering. working with Army organisations our The soldiers had their skill-sets designers know just how to apply the official badges to achieve outstanding results. enhanced with a one-day chainsaw course at the school in Holsworthy, which qualified them in crosscut operations before departing for the coast. This training allowed them to cut apart fallen timber so their teams could haul away bushfire debris from roads, tracks, fences and properties. Lt Aiden Frost, of 2/17RNSWR, and team leader for the 5ER’s Task Group Strike Team 3, Response Team Alpha, said the crisis instantly Pte Jake Jubelin, of 2/17RNSWR, cuts apart a fallen tree so that focused the minds of all soldiers in a new entry track can be cut on to a property. the field. Photo: Maj Cameron Jamieson “In the absence of normal coor- dination, it was amazing to see peo- erty was needed to circumvent a pleasant area but the fire erupted ple across the corps work together the destroyed house, but the path in just a matter of seconds, now to make things happen and help the was blocked by burnt-out trees. it’s hell on earth.” people affected by this tragedy,” Lt That changed when Strike Team Mr Humphries said that now Frost said. 3 arrived. he had a caravan he and his wife The dedication of the soldiers also Mr Humphries said the pres- could consider their options, as gave a sense of hope to homeowners ence of the soldiers was an unex- who had lost everything. pected godsend. with so many of his devastated For more information visit armyshop.com.au/coins Verona residents Jim and Enid “ Wi t h o u t t h e m I ’d h ave neighbours and community Humphries lost their home to the fires to be into this with a chainsaw members. north of Bega. They had been living and that wouldn’t be pretty,” Mr “We are just one of the many, in a tent, but now have a caravan. Humphries said. there’s a hell of lot in the same Army Shop at Military Shop A new access track to their prop- “Before the fire, this was quite boat, a hell of a lot,” he said. A part of BrandNet 65 Kembla Street Fyshwick Canberra 02 6123 2960
defencebank.com.au 1800 033 139 We Salute our ADF in the line of fire. Our Salute account rewards those who are on deployment, have reached 15 or 25 years of service or have transitioned with bonus interest for 12 months.* If you’ve recently been deployed as part of Operation Bushfire Assist you may be eligible for the Salute account. It’s our little way of saying ‘thank you’. Talk to us today. Or when you can. *Terms and conditions and interest rates are available at defencebank.com.au. Fees and charges may apply. No minimum deposit. Bonus interest for balances up to $100,000. To receive the Salute account, the member must deposit $1500 (minimum) into a Defence Bank Everyday Access account each month of the 12 month period. After the 12 month period the interest rate will revert to the Salute account base interest rate. Before acquiring any product please consider whether it is right for you. Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL / Australian Credit Licence 234582.
February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews Operation Bushfire Assist 9 A Bushmaster ambulance is positioned within 1CHB Role One medical facility at Primary care a primary Batemans Bay evacuation centre in support of Operation Bushfire Assist. concern for soldiers Photo: Sgt Bill Solomou Cpl Sebastian Beurich which is the same recognition as doctors and nurses, which frees us TWO soldiers found themselves in a up to work with civilian patients,” Pte unique position to use their skills to Scanlon said. assist a Victorian community during “It hasn’t been possible in the past the bushfires. because I haven’t had the registra- Nursing officer Capt Phil Barber tion that allowed us to cross over. and combat paramedic Pte Rod “It’s immensely satisfying and Scanlon, both of 4CSSB, manned rewarding being here, from the the health centre in Bright after responses we get from the local nurses were ordered to evacuate due population, who have been tremen- to the looming bushfire threat. dously grateful for our presence, to “Our role was primary health care, being able to get involved and build a or just general medical assistance,” connection with the community.” Capt Barber said. Their assistance was just another example of Australians’ love of help- “This definitely wasn’t on our ing their neighbours, according to list of tasks for this deployment, but Capt Barber, who said Army had we’ve had nothing but unlimited become like the “fourth leg of a stool” Watch video at: charity and support.” to the community. youtube.com/watch?v=915SrDTbF3Q The pair, along with much of “We’re another element to support the rest of Victoria’s 4 Bde, had them, alongside the firies, the ambos been on standby to help since early and the police,” Capt Barber said. Duty of care November. “Everyone on social media says Although not normally allowed ‘what can I do to help’ and for some to treat civilians while in uniform, that’s donating money, or for oth- Pte Scanlon said the system had ers it’s dropping water off at the matured in recent years, allowing Foodbank, but we all love to give and both military and civilian health ser- help our neighbours. vices to recognise their qualifications. “For us it’s helping to staff the “Paramedics have only just been hospital, but almost everyone is offer- registered with the Australian Health ing assistance and asking what they Sgt Max Bree The detachment includes a destroyed, they were quite dis- Practitioner Regulation Agency, can do, which I find amazing.” doctor, two nurses, two medics tressed from that,” Cpl Smith said. STORIES of burnt-out homes and and an Army chaplain to provide “They just wanted to talk, then shattered lives have been shared counselling. go from there. They wanted an with Army medics, in a departure During the first day of opera- external ear rather than the hospital from the usual tales of soldiers’ tion, patients spoke to duty medic or mental health team.” illnesses and injuries. Cpl Leigh Smith. The detachment could also con- The medics are part of a nine- “I took any notes, observations duct resuscitation and stabilisation, person primary healthcare team and got their medical history,” Cpl and had a Bushmaster ambulance from Army’s 1CHB, which arrived Smith said. for evacuations or extractions from at the Batemans Bay evacuation “If they needed the doctor, I’d isolated areas if requested by state centre on January 7. send them through. If it was minor, authorities. They’ve treated a trickle of I’d give them something. patients since setting up, but “We don’t normally deal with The Army detachment worked detachment commander Capt Kaiya the elderly or young unless we do alongside an Australian medical Chen said most weren’t physically a hospital placement. It’s different assistance team, which has posi- hurt. from fit soldiers aged about 20 to tioned doctors, nurses and a field “I had a lady one morning, vir- 40, but doing placements gets you hospital at the evacuation centre. tually in tears, just wanting to have used to it.” “Any Australian would feel they a chat about the things that she’s Other than a woman with smoke want to help out,” Capt Chen said. seen after losing her home. A lot of inhalation, most of Cpl Smith’s “We all know the impact the Combat paramedic Pte Rod Scanlon, left, and nursing the people have a story to tell and cases involved mental health fires are having on our communi- officer Capt Phil Barber at the Alpine Health Bright they just want someone to tell it to,” matters. ties, so we’re all keen to come out centre, Victoria. Photo: Cpl Sebastian Beurich Capt Chen said. “Two had their houses and support.” Fingers on the pulse Maj Cameron Jamieson WHILE the machinery and muscle power of the ADF’s support for the WHO IS national bushfire emergency has received broad coverage, plenty of smaller activities are also having HELPING YOU a significant impact on devastated communities. In the NSW Snowy Valleys region, medical personnel from WITH YOUR 1CHB are offering primary medical services while public services are re-established. Pte Brenden Walker provides a complimentary check-up to Jay FINANCE GOALS Besides offering a walk-in clinic, they have a resuscitation capability Twemlow inside a Bushmaster ambulance during a health visit to and can evacuate patients to outlying Batlow, NSW. Photo: Maj Cameron Jamieson hospitals using local paramedics. IN 2020? The small detachment deployed For Army medic Pte Brenden opening up and talking. We found from Brisbane in January, with stays Walker, the opportunity to serve out there were people in need, so in Batemans Bay, Eden and Cooma the people of the region was an we got some addresses and deliv- before arriving in Tumbarumba. honour, but it came with the stark ered some water. To further their work, they are realities of the bushfire emergency. “People had lost their homes undertaking community engage- “On the first day, people were and were living out of their cars ment at the nearby town of Batlow just glad to see us,” Pte Walker and vans, and we were able to Contact us to get started today! using an ambulance-variant of the said. help them and offer medical assis- Call 1300 784 246 Credit Licence Bushmaster protected mobility vehi- “The next day we weren’t get- tance. #476980 cle, reaching out to people in need, ting many inquiries, so we visited “It’s an honour to be able to whether it be with medical assistance people at the RSL club. come down and help out. I’m glad or the delivery of water and other “We started chatting with the that I was there when the call went 1300 784 246 or visit www.spect.com.au goods. locals and they in turn started out for people to be deployed.”
10 Operation Bushfire Assist New life marks new beginning Army medic Cpl Kristie Connell, of 8CSSB, holds baby Ivy Tyrrell. Sgt Max Bree house for three days from New Year’s but she did not think it was the onset Photo: Eve, but the home was spared thanks of the birth. Sgt Max Bree A WOMAN tore into the Cobargo to lucky winds and the efforts of her “All of a sudden it hit, but the con- relief centre on January 21, grabbing husband Byron, who defended the tractions were fairly distant. Then they towels and saying her daughter was in property with a water pump. were two minutes apart. I was getting labour. “We found Sarah sitting on a beach nervous that it was going to be a home LCpl Archibald Fallon called an chair. She was calm and we got her on birth.” ambulance, but he knew it wouldn’t to the couch,” Pte Brimmer said. Police arrived, but there was no be able to reach the mum-to-be at “It was good knowing she wasn’t sign of an ambulance. Upper Brogo on the NSW south coast crowning, but being the sixth child, it Because of patchy phone reception, in time. could come very quickly, going from troop signaller Pte Murray Richey set “I got on our radio to call up Army zero to 100.” up satellite communications equip- medics, knowing the ambos coming Pte Brimmer tried to remember the ment. After about 30 minutes, an from Bega would take a lot longer to emergency birth checklist normally on ambulance appeared. get there than we would,” LCpl Fallon his desk. On the way to hospital, Pte said. “You get the pregnant woman on Brimmer rode in the front passenger A nearby medic, Cpl Kristie her back or in a position that’s most seat, while Cpl Connell assisted the Connell, was called in to respond to comfortable,” he said. paramedic in the rear of the ambu- the situation. “If she gets the urge to push, just lance. “I was told to grab my kit, jump push, don’t try and fight because that “Sarah felt pressure on her pelvis, a fence and wait by the highway for can hurt the baby. and because of previous quick deliver- pick-up because there was a lady in “You also think about alternative ies, it was lights and sirens on,” Cpl labour,” Cpl Connell said. positions in case there are any breech Connell said. Despite more than eight years as problems or the umbilical cord is Midwives took Ms Tyrrell from the an intensive care nurse, Cpl Connell showing.” ambulance when they arrived at Bega had only limited experience with Ms Tyrrell was on a couch with hospital and about five minutes later, births. She was joined by Pte Nicholas towels tucked around her, contractions baby Ivy was born. Brimmer, who had helped deliver five were timed and an off-site medical “I’ll definitely enjoy telling this babies – but only over the phone as an officer prepared for a video call if the story. It’s not every day you have ambulance dispatcher. baby came suddenly. the Army turn up to make sure your They formed part of a team that The medical officer also advised [baby’s] arrival is safe,” Ms Tyrrell took a winding dirt road through fire- Cpl Connell in the event of imminent said. ravaged hills to the home of soon-to-be labour. “They made sure everything ran mum-of-six Sarah Tyrrell. Ms Tyrrell said she woke that day smoothly. I couldn’t have asked for Fire burned around Ms Tyrrell’s “with a couple of little niggling pains”, better help.” 3.1kms a day for 31 days Walk 96kms, the distance of the Kokoda Trail, in March 2020. Sign up on your own or with a team, to raise awareness and help prevent veteran suicide. get FIT . RAISE FUNDS . HELP prevent veteran suicide For more information scan the QR code, or visit www.soldieron.org.au/march-on/
February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews Operation Bushfire Assist 11 Pte Jake Jubelin, of 2/17RNSWR, cuts up a fire-damaged tree on the road to the dairy farm of Tim Salway, near Cobargo, NSW. Relief during tragedy Sgt Max Bree Strike teams, such as those commanded by Lt Frost, are working to assist communi- A RAGING inferno killed Tim Salway’s ties in south-east NSW in the wake of the brother and father when bushfires tore bushfires. through the family dairy farm near Cobargo, His team has 26 soldiers from Army’s NSW, on New Year’s Eve. 5 Bde, mostly infantrymen and combat engi- As Mr Salway returned to their ravaged neers, supported by a medic and signaller. 240ha property, milking came first. Four of the infantrymen completed an “I knew my old man and brother were Army chainsaw course while the team was lying there just over the hill, but we had to staging at Holsworthy. get the cows in,” Mr Salway said. “One minute we’re helping fix fences to “You can’t afford to miss it, because they stop cattle getting on the road and the next start getting udder issues. minute we’re out doing engineer tasks such “That was the hardest milking I’ve ever as inspecting culverts and bridges, or felling had to do, but you couldn’t just stop and say and cutting up trees,” Lt Frost said. ‘that was a bad fire’.” “Even if it is just basic, manual labour, About 170 of the Salways’ 350 cows were the team is really glad to be able to help.” lost in the blaze. The Salways’ farm provides milk to Help arrived in the fire’s wake, including Bega Cheese, the same company that makes an Army strike team to clear and pile up fall- canned cheese for Army ration packs. en trees from the paddocks, saving the family Above: Lt Aiden Frost with dairy farmer Tim Salway and his wife Leanne. Below: Cows The company couldn’t process the an estimated month’s work. singed by fire at the Salways’ dairy farm. Photos: Sgt Max Bree Salways’ milk for 10 days after the fires, “They ripped in with chainsaws, they smashed through, their bosses kept asking me meaning it had to be dumped, but Bega ‘what next?’,” Mr Salway said. Cheese still paid for it. The company also “We’re able to get back in these paddocks, provided the family with generators to keep we’re able to work the land again. In time things running until power was restored. we’ll be able to burn these heaps [of wood]. “We take for granted where everything “They cleared our driveway and just driv- comes from,” Lt Frost said. ing in makes you feel better. Things like this “Guys like these farmers provide milk to keep you going, as tough as it is for our make cheese for ration packs or the super- family.” market; everyone knows the struggles they’ve Lt Aiden Frost, of 2/17RNSWR, com- had. manded the strike team that arrived for two “Then to have a fire devastate your farm days of work on January 14. and lose family members is the last thing any They also brought water and an Army of these people needed. At least we can show chaplain to counsel the Salways. them that the people of Australia and the “The intensity of the fire basically ripped Army care about them.” all of the trees out of the ground and created When the team finished at the Salways’ huge amounts of debris, which rendered the property, Tim’s family had worked for 15 paddocks sort of unusable,” Lt Frost said. days straight to recover, with no end in sight. “The farmers have been overwhelmed. “It wasn’t a fire, it was a monster, like a We can’t solve the whole problem, but in a tornado. It’s something I don’t want to see couple of days our guys were able to clear again,” Mr Salway said. significant amounts of the property, which “I’ve been trying to say it’s not that bad, will eventually allow their cattle numbers to but when the Army turns up to help you it recover.” must be pretty bad.”
12 February 6, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/armynews OPERATION BUSHFIRE ASSIST 13 A Chinook from 5 Avn Regt supports Victorian CFS with evacuations of people and animals from the Omeo and Mt Hotham areas of Victoria who were under threat from the Bruthen bushfire. Soldiers from 5ER assist in unloading donated goods Chinooks from 5 Avn Regt deliver hay bales to remote at the Milton bushfire-affected farms on Kangaroo Island, South Showground within Australia, during Operation Bushfire Assist. the Shoalhaven Photo: Cpl Tristan Kennedy district of NSW. Photo: Sgt Bill Solomou Soldiers and medics unload Red Cross food parcels and supplies from a Republic of Singapore Air Force Chinook to the fire-isolated community of Chandlers Creek, Victoria. Photo: Pte Michael Currie Pte Jaya Delaterre, of 2/17RNSWR, breaks up a burning log as part of an effort to prevent spot fires in Jerangle, NSW. Photo: LCpl Brodie Cross Soldiers from 16RAR Emergency Support Force, help feed Koala joeys at Cleland Wildlife Cpl Jaaziel Robertson, of 12/40RTR, breaks Park in the Adelaide Hills, apart roofing from a home on Kangaroo Island South Australia. that burnt down in the bushfires. Photo: Nicole Mankowski Photo: LCpl Brodie Cross
14 Operation Bushfire Assist Building bridges Sgt Max Bree they are 20 to 30-plus years old. They handled the fires pretty well with MOST motorists won’t pay much some minor or moderate maintenance attention to a bridge as they drive required.” over it. The pair report their findings But a pair of combat engineers to local councils, which prioritise from 5ER have become familiar with repairs or further inspections. dozens of bridge undersides in south- Despite a background in concrete east NSW following bushfires that bridges, Cpl Lorenz said there was swept the region. some crossover with the wooden One is LCpl Rick Williams, a civil structures. engineer and surveyor when not serv- “There are some idiosyncrasies in ing with the Army Reserve. wooden bridges,” he said “We’re looking to see how deep “But our work is about knowing fire has burned into the hardwood, to what aspects of the bridge accomplish see if there’s any structural issues,” and how much load is going through LCpl Williams said. them. Then we assess how much “It’s amazing to see how fire gets into a structure. A lot of ember damage they can sustain while still attacks got into termite-eaten wood being functional.” and just burnt through it. Despite most of the region’s “With steel, we’re looking to see bridges being made of wood and if the fire has been hot enough to steel, the sappers did get to inspect twist or warp the steel members.” one concrete structure, which was out For the most part, bridges in the of the fire zone but slightly stressed region held up well, according to Cpl due to a heavier route being closed. Ross Lorenz, a civil engineer whose “We were inspecting it for over- resume includes bridge-building load damage. It held up quite well, Cpl Ross Lorenz, left, and LCpl Rick projects on the Pacific Highway and but it did have some maintenance Williams, of 5ER, inspect a fire- Hunter Expressway. issues,” Cpl Lorenz said. damaged bridge in Cobargo, NSW. “One extreme example was Although there is scope for 5ER Photo: Sgt Max Bree charred remains at the bottom of a sappers to make temporary fixes for gully, but overall the bridges are look- some bridges, major repairs will be ing good,” Cpl Lorenz said. done by local council specialist “A lot of the bridges look like contractors. George Walters, of the South Coast Rural Relief charity, checks a load of fodder with Sgt Mathew Maynard, left, prior to their departure from Cooma, NSW, in support of Operation Bushfire Assist. Photo: Sgt Brett Sherriff Ged Gross delivers the coffee while his Kelpie pup Tuna delivers the smiles for Capt Alisha Reeves, of 5ER Task Group, in Bega. Photo: Maj Cameron Jamieson Coffee fuels positivity Maj Cameron Jamieson “That’s important, because there is a lot of anxiety among businesses.” Watch video at: MOST soldiers would jump at the chance to replace ration- Things also changed when youtube.com/watch?v=sdsWD1-y7CQ Mr Gross and his wife took their pack coffee with the freshly brewed variety. children to an Army kids’ day In Bega, NSW, it’s one exam- event. Hayday for communities ple of how troops are contribut- “After playing with the Army ing to local businesses following for a day, they changed from nearby bushfires. ‘playing fighting fires’ to ‘playing For Ged Gross, who runs Army’,” he said. mobile coffee business More “The children’s change shift- Sgt Dave Morley assistance of the Army has been a mas- Gin, up past Bundaberg, so I know ed everyone else’s attitude back Than Beans, troops are helping sive boost,” Mr Walters said. towards what’s going on now.” how tough farmers are doing it,” Pte reverse financial losses caused But the soldier/coffee-vendor WHILE people and native wildlife left “Some sheep, cattle and horses Whitehurst said. by the fires. relationship is not all one-way. devastated by the bushfires are increas- haven’t had anything for days. “It’s a privilege to be able to get out “Their presence means there Mr Gross brings his Kelpie ingly being cared for, livestock on “We are now reaching farms and and help – being here makes me proud is a fair bit of hope,” Mr Gross pup “Tuna” with him. farms haven’t necessarily been receiv- properties that desperately need assis- to wear the uniform.” said. “The pup has been a hit with ing the same attention. tance.” “We’ve lost a considerable the soldiers, with all the chaos A convoy of road trains loaded with number of contracts and jobs Local Cooma farmer George Pte Shaun Whitehurst, a that went on and not knowing Walters has gone all out to fix this by Rheinmetall HX77 driver from hay from Western Australia arrived in over the summer, however, the what they would be doing next,” forming South Coast Rural Relief, an Brisbane-based 7CSSB, took on a load Cooma on January 22. soldiers bring positivity to the he said. organisation that aims to get fodder to of hay in Cooma on January 15. Army vehicles will continue to whole area, because it shows “They would play with her farmers who need it most. He said people were doing it tough assist in distributing this much-needed that there is going to be an and walk her when we pulled “The whole community has gotten after the fires. fodder to farms across the NSW south injection to keep the economy up. It’s good for them and good behind the relief efforts, but to have the “I’m from off the land at Gin coast. going. for her too.”
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16 Australia Day honours Going above and beyond Personnel awarded Australia Day honours for their distinguished service and outstanding devotion to duty. OFFICER (AO) IN THE MILITARY and leadership and significantly in personnel management, instruc- General Train Advise Assist Brig Wade Stothart DIVISION enhancing the operational effects tional leadership, executive events Command – South in Afghanistan For distinguished performance and capabilities of the ADF. coordination and ceremonial event from September 2017 to February of duties in warlike operations Lt-Gen Gregory Bilton management in the ADF. Col Andrew McBaron 2019. as Director Joint Plans and For distinguished service in For exceptional service as WO1 Roger Read Assessment, HQ Combined Joint the appointments of Deputy DISTINGUISHED SERVICE the Director of Officer Career For meritorious service as the Task Force – Operation Inherent Commanding General of the US CROSS (DSC) Management – Army, Career Information Systems Engineer, Force Resolve from December 2017 to Army in the Pacific, Deputy Chief of Joint Operations and Commander Adviser for General Service Officer Installation Team 31 from 2017 to Col Michael Say December 2018. ForComd. Lieutenant Colonels and Staff Officer 2019. For distinguished command and Col B Grade One Establishments. WO1 Andrew Shore leadership in warlike operations For distinguished performance MEMBER (AM) IN THE MILITARY Lt-Col Alyson Auliff For meritorious service as the while deployed as Commander of of duties in warlike operations as DIVISION Regimental Sergeant Major TGT-7 in Iraq during 2018. Director Strategy and Plans, HQ For exceptional service to the ADF in Maj-Gen Andrew Freeman malaria research. 3RAR and Royal Military Lt-Col R Combined JTF – Operation Inherent College – Duntroon, and Career Resolve from January to September For exceptional service to the ADF For distinguished command and 2018. as Commander 17 Bde, Director MEDAL (OAM) IN THE MILITARY Adviser in the Directorate of Soldier leadership in warlike operations as General Land Operations and DIVISION Career Management – Army. Commander of a Special Operations Col Stephen Gliddon Director Logistics – Army. Capt John Land WO1 Julie Whittaker Task Group in Iraq from June to For distinguished performance Brig Michael Ashleigh For meritorious service as the December 2018. of duties in warlike operations as For meritorious service as the Army Chief of Future Operations, North Conservator Australian Army History Senior Technical Trade WO and For exceptional service as Director DISTINGUISHED SERVICE Atlantic Treaty Organisation Resolute Unit in support of the protection of Career Adviser for Army Ammunition Logistics – Army, Director General MEDAL (DSM) Support Mission, Afghanistan, from Strategic Logistics and Commander Army’s heritage. Technicians. November 2017 to January 2019. Australian Army Cadets. Col Stuart Kenny WO1 Joshua Andrews BAR TO THE DISTINGUISHED Col Gavin Stanford Brig Stephen Jobson For distinguished leadership in For meritorious service in achieve- SERVICE CROSS (DSC and Bar) warlike operations as Chief of For distinguished performance For exceptional service as ment and exceptional commitment Brig John Shanahan Plans for Train, Advise, Assist of duties in warlike operations Commandant Army Recruit Training to the continuous advancement of Command – South Operation as Chief of Future Operations Centre, Commander 16th Avn Bde Army’s Geospatial Intelligence For distinguished command and Resolute Support Afghanistan from within Operations Directorate and Commander JTF646. capability. leadership in warlike operations as January 2018 to January 2019. of HQ Combined Joint Task North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Col Nicholas Foxall WO1 Brian Moore Force – Operation Inherent Resolve Resolute Support HQ Chief of Bdr Michael Cobb from November 2017 to November For exceptional service in command For meritorious performance of duty Operations and as Commanding For distinguished leadership in 2018. warlike operations as Australian Maj Joshua Higgins Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems Detachment Commander, HQ For distinguished performance of JTF633, while deployed to the duties in warlike operations as the Middle East Region from October OC Training Team Victor, TGT-7 in 2017 to June 2018. Iraq from May to November 2018. Capt D COMMENDATION FOR For distinguished performance DISTINGUISHED SERVICE of duties in warlike operations as Brig Peter Connor the XO and OPSO for a Special Operations Task Group while For distinguished performance deployed to Iraq on Operation Okra of duties in warlike operations as in 2018. the Commander of Task Group Afghanistan while deployed on Cpl Daniel Flynn Operation Highroad from November For distinguished performance 2017 to September 2018. of duties in warlike operations as Out of the ordinary LS Kylie Jagiello WHAT some people might see as just doing their job is actually going above and beyond for someone else. This was the case for Cpl Lachlan Mitchell who received a Commendation for Distinguished Service in the Australia Day Honours. “I didn’t feel that I did anything out of the ordinary Posting soon or just posted to a new location? while I was deployed, however am honoured for the nomination,” Cpl Mitchell said. Is your partner looking for work? “I didn’t really have a measure to go by so I just did the best job that I could and I guess someone noticed.” Help is available through the Partner Employment Assistance Program. While deployed to Operation Highroad from February to August 2018, Cpl Mitchell was a force In each posting location, partners of ADF members can apply for up to protection section commander for Train Advise Assist $1500 funding to contribute towards employment-related initiatives such as Command – Air. As section commander, Cpl Mitchell distinguished resume preparation, job search and job interview techniques, as well as job himself through his performance, leadership and pro- placement advice. It can also assist with professional re-registration costs fessionalism and was an instrumental member to his when moving from one state or territory to another. team. “We were working 24/7 over there and I just tried to use every moment I could to help out,” he said. Instead of relaxing in his spare time, Cpl Mitchell prefers to help train others in combat shooting tech- niques, both inside the security of the base and outside Want more information? at range. Visit www.defence.gov.au/dco, call 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au Commendation for Distinguished Service recipient Cpl Lachlan Mitchell, right, is presented with the OSCMAR trophy for best endurance by DCA Maj-Gen Anthony Rawlins during the Gloucester DCO 073-2018 Cup at Singleton, NSW, in 2019. Photo: Cpl Sebastian Beurich 073-2018 ADV PEAP.indd 1 12/12/2018 11:25:52 AM
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