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FORCEAIRVol. 51, No. 4, March 19, 2009 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

WE FOUND ITC-130 spots missing trawler lost in Cyclone Hamish

Show Show time at time at AvalonAvalon

LOOK AT US: A 37SQN C-130 flies over Melbourne in the lead-up to the Australian International Airshow at Avalon. Two C-130s joined the Air Force contingent at the show to provide air and ground displays. Meanwhile, up north, two C-130s were busy searching for a fishing trawler lost at sea (story below). Photo: ABPH James Whittle

By John Martin and Andrew Stackpool

THE Air Force’s role as a key search and rescue asset was underlined on March 10 when a C-130 from 37SQN found a fishing trawler that capsized in wild weather off the central Queens-land coast.

Pilot SQNLDR Michael Crooks said one of the crew’s loadmasters, WOFF Johnny Coram, spotted the trawler, the MBC, about 300km north-east of Rockhampton about noon.

“At that point everyone’s spir-its were lifted. We knew that even if no one was still on board, the search coordinators would be able to concen-

trate the search into a smaller area and increase the probability of finding any survivors,” SQNLDR Crooks said.

The trawler’s position was relayed back to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), which was coor-dinating the search over about 1120 square kilometres.

SQNLDR Crooks then made a number of passes over the vessel, look-ing for any signs of survivors, includ-ing any life rafts, but nothing was seen.

“The trawler had obviously been dragged across the reef and looked like it had turned over a few times and come to rest of one of the reefs,” he said.

The drama started unfolding on March 9 when the 20m trawler took shelter at Swains Reef, about 220km north-east of Rockhampton, from six to seven metre waves generated by Cyclone Hamish.

The AMSA received a distress mes-sage at 10.30am that morning but a rescue aircraft was unable to reach the location because of the prevailing conditions.

Air Force sent the first of two Hercules from RAAF Base Richmond on the late afternoon of March 9. The crew searched all night without luck before flying back to RAAF Base Townsville about 1am. Continued Page 3

STUCK: The MBC trawler washed

up on the reef, as seen by the C-130 crew flying above. Photo: CPL Col Dadd

2 News AIR FORCE March 19, 2009

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DisclaimerAIR FORCE News is published fortnightly by the Directorate of Defence Newspapers. Printed by Capital Fine Print. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising if it is deemed inappropriate and to change the size of the ad, print type or other specifications if material is not compatible with our system. The fact an ad is accepted for publication does not mean that the product or service has the endorsement of Defence or AIR FORCE News.

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Senior ReporterAndrew Stackpool: (02) 6266 [email protected]

Reporter/PhotographerLAC Aaron Curran: (02) 6265 [email protected]

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THE invaluable service to Australia in peace and war by the Caribou over four dec-ades will live on after the type is retired.

Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon and Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced during a visit to RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook on March 9 that two of the aircraft will be provided to the Australian War Memorial (AWM) and the RAAF Museum at Point Cook after they have been retired.

Aircraft A4-140 will go to the AWM while A4-152 will go to the RAAF Museum.

Museum Director David Gardner said the Museum was looking forward to its arrival, which may occur early next year.

“It will be placed on static display only and under cover for its long-term preserva-tion,” Mr Gardner said.

“Initially, we shall dismantle it here for safe-keeping and preservation while we find hangar space big enough to display it.

“It’s an exciting acquisition for us as it is such a significant type in its own right,” he said.

A4-152 arrived in Australia on June 13, 1964. During its long career, it served with 35SQN in Vietnam and 38SQN in Sumatra, with the United Nations Military Observer Group India and Pakistan in Kashmir, and Vanuatu.

It served with Interfet in East Timor, and made several flights to Papua New Guinea.

In 2007, it achieved a major milestone when it passed the 20,000 hour flying mark; almost 120 weeks of continuous flying.

A4-140 was handed over to the Air Force on March 12, 1964, and served with 86WG and 38SQN. Later, it served in Vietnam with 35SQN before transferring to 38SQN again.

Later deployments included Portuguese Timor (now East Timor) and Bougainville.

In February 2002, the aircraft was used to celebrate 38SQN’s 38 years of service when special markings were painted on its tail.

The 13-aircraft fleet will be progressively retired during 2009, and, perhaps fittingly, A4-140 and A4-152 will be among the last to be retired.

“A chapter of Air Force’s proud histo-ry belongs to the Caribou. They have per-formed active service in Vietnam, humanitar-ian relief in Kashmir, Cambodia and Papua New Guinea and supported peacekeeping operations in East Timor and the Solomon Islands,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

“This will be a fitting way to respect and remember the Caribou and the men and women who have worked so hard to fly and support the aircraft.”

“[The RAAF Museum] is one of Australia’s premier aircraft and aeronauti-cal collections,” Ms Gillard said. “It houses the largest collection of military aircraft and artefacts in Australia. It is a very fitting last resting place for Caribou A4-152.”

By LAC Aaron Curran

IF YOU attended the Australian International Airshow 2009 (AIA 09) in Avalon, Victoria, the first thing you would see was a 38SQN Caribou.

Air Force placed one of its favour-ite and long-serving aircraft there to welcome the thousands who turned out to see the Air and Defence spectacular, which ran from March 9 to 15.

On display in the air and on the ground was a complete package of Air Force’s assets; everything from aircraft to medics.

F-111s, F/A-18s, Hawks, PC-9s, Caribous, C-130s, CT-4s, an AP-3C and the new 2SQN Wedgetail were on show.

It wasn’t just aircraft people had the opportunity to see but also Air Force’s wide variety of supporting units. Airfield Defence Guards from 1 Airfield Defence Squadron were there as well as 41 and 44WG, which set up a mobile control tower, a new Panther fire truck from the RAAF School of Fire and Security, 325 and 382ECSS firefighters, the Air Force Band, Health Services Wing with an Aero-medical Evacuation display, Military Working

Dogs, and other units which operate behind the scenes.

“Our aims were to achieve public awareness to what Air Force contrib-utes to Australian Defence [as well as] showcase our capabilities and, more importantly, our career opportunities to the public,” Head of Planning Team AIA 09, AIRCDRE David Pietsch, said.

“It went really well. Planning started about six to eight months ago and the entire team did a great job of preparing for and conducting the show.”

The USAF brought some of its best aircraft: F-15 and F-16 fighters, B1-B Lancer bombers, a C-17, a KC-135 tanker, Super Hornets and the mighty C-5 Galaxy.

Singapore, Malaysia and New Zealand also put some of their latest aircraft on show.

Aircraft and exhibitions by various Defence-related industries catered for the corporate crowd, which had trade-only days from March 9 to 13.

The show then really kicked off when the general public were allowed in from the afternoon of Friday, March 13 until the show’s conclusion on Sunday.

Caribous to find new home at RAAF Museum and AWM

On with the showw

Full coverage of Avalon in the next edition

INTERACTION: Above, from left, 11SQN’s PLTOFF Josh Brown, FLTLT Matthew Basedow and FSGT Michael Cuthbert watch proceedings from their AP-3C. Photo: ABPH Evan MurphySHOWING OFF: Left, a 3SQN Hornet taxis out for a demonstration flight over the airshow. Photo: POPH Rick Prideaux

HISTORY MADE: Above, Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon (left) discusses the handover of the two Caribous with Director of the RAAF Museum, David Gardner, and three 38SQN crew members at RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook.DRIVER’S SEAT: Below, Mr Fitzgibbon gets the feel of the Caribou from the captain’s chair.

Photos: ABPH Morgana Salabert

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DEF1433 AANN (09/08)

3NewsAIR FORCE March 19, 2009

From Page 1The second C-130, piloted by

SQNLDR Crooks, left Richmond at 4.30am the next day.

It arrived in the search area by day-break.

Aboard were 15 people – two pilots, two loadmasters, three technicians and eight observers. The observers worked in shifts, looking out from four points on the aircraft – forward right, forward left, rear right and rear left.

For the first five hours, SQNLDR Crooks said they saw nothing.

They were checking out Sweet Lip Reef from approximately 500 feet when WOFF Coram made the discovery.

From then, the focus of the search changed to looking for survivors.

Twenty-year-old crew member James Palmer was rescued after surviving in the heavy seas for more than 24 hours.

Mr Palmer, the nephew of the trawl-er’s skipper Russell Palmer, and another man, Tony Tyndall, had left the trawler aboard an inflatable life raft after putting on life jackets.

Mr Palmer told rescuers that Mr Tyndall had then removed his life jacket and swum back to the trawler. Shortly after he boarded it, a huge wave had cap-sized both the trawler and the life raft, throwing him into the water.

He had grabbed what he thought was

a stick floating past. It was an emer-gency beacon from the trawler but it was washed from his hands before he could activate it.

However, by what he described as sheer luck, it floated back to him and he activated it.

An AMSA aircraft later homed in on the beacon and located him. He was then recovered by helicopter.

After searching for more than 10 hours, SQNLDR Crooks’ C-130 flew to Rockhampton, and returned to Richmond the next day.

By then, the other C-130 had rejoined the search for the other two men.

By March 11, 10 search aircraft and a number of boats were being coordinated by AMSA.

SQNLDR Crooks said he was mind-ful that the Air Force was just one of the assets at AMSA’s disposal, but he was proud it was an important one.

“My thanks goes to all my crew members and observers whose dedica-tion and resolve, in trying conditions, ensured we played our part in the greater search operation.”

Mr Palmer was saved by a new 406MHz EPIRB. All personnel who go offshore and in any size boat are reminded that the EPIRB became compulsory in waters around all Australian territories and states from February 1 this year.

By John Martin

TRADING a self-made bed in the wet jungle for a soft one back in Towns-ville was probably a happy outcome for 33 students on 0007 Aircrew Environ-mental Survival Course – but it came at the end of a dramatic night caused by Cyclone Hamish.

The students – 22 Air Force, eight Army and three Navy personnel – were on the second night of the jungle phase of the course held in mountains about an hour’s drive from Townsville.

CO of Combat Survival Training School (CSTS), SQNLDR Colin Evers, got word late on March 6 that a cyclone warning had been declared for the area and CSTS staff accompanying the stu-dents were contacted.

“Chief Ins t ructor FLTLT Ben Kurylowicz made the call that with condi-tions getting a bit wet and windy up there

and dirt roads getting slippery, it was only going to get worse so it was time to move everyone out,” SQNLDR Evers said.

The students, in groups over a jungle area of about 3 sq km, were quickly gath-ered together in the darkness, loaded onto UNIMOGS, and driven down out of the jungle to rendezvous with CSTS HQ staff waiting with buses to transport them back to base.

The students finally got to bed about 3.30am.

When the cyclone danger had passed, the course resumed and students returned to their survival shelters in the jungle on March 9.

The suspension necessitated a one-week delay for the companion Aircrew Combat Survival Course. “The upshot is some students get to enjoy the delightful-ly tropical Townsville living for an extra week,” SQNLDR Evers said.

Trawlerspotted by C-130

Cyclone Hamish dampens course

EVER VIGILANT: CPL Tiemo Modersitzki from 1CCS keeps a look-out.

HOURS OF EFFORT: Above, observer LAC Shane Blair from 1CCS scans the ocean for signs of the trawler. The searchers saw nothing for five hours.

THE SAD SIGHT: Left, the trawler as the C-130 crew spotted her, lying on the reef. Pilot SQNLDR Michael Crooks said everyone’s spirits were lifted when she was found. The crew made a number of passes over the wreck but there were no signs of life. Photos: CPL Col Dadd

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By FLTLT Carl Lorrigan

THE scenario: flooding on a scale never seen before has hit a Pacific neighbour, destroying in-frastructure, causing outbreaks of vector-borne diseases, food short-ages and simmering tribal ten-sions.

Not for real, of course, but it raises the question: if it did really happen, how would we help?

That was answered positively when the Northern Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron (NECSS) Command Post (CP) team went to work on just that situation for four days last month as part of Exercise Night Watch.

For the purposes of the scenario, the stricken country was dubbed Stunod.

NECSS was required to establish Air Point of Departure (APOD) serv-ices at Stunod Airfield, assist with the supply of essential provisions and provide combat service support to an Expeditionary Health Flight.

Night Watch is a newly-devel-oped training activity by HQ 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing in the form of a CP exercise.

It was specifically designed to validate the online status of NECSS before going online on March 1.

WGCDR Neville Donnelly, from the HQ 396ECSW validation team, said he believed it was the first time this type of exercise had been devel-oped and executed specifically for an ECSS CP. “Exercise Control tested CP staff by generating a wide range of scenarios and communications from all command levels,” he said.

The exercise started after NECSS executives participated in lessons regarding the roles and responsi-bilities within a CP and set up of the squadron CP at RAAF Base Tindal.

While having to maintain com-mand and control of APOD services, the team was faced with a diverse range of realistic injects testing CP procedures within an uncertain envi-ronment. Scenarios included past challenges and incidents that still occur within a deployed environment.

Night Hawk was conducted suc-cessfully and all exercise objectives were achieved. The NECSS com-mand and control elements met the challenges posed by the exercise. HQ 396ECSW has also further developed a workable ECSS CP exercise model for future training applications.

Pacific alert

Joint facility openedTHE new home of the ADF’s

Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC), the GEN John Baker Complex, was officially opened by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on March 7.

The state-of-the-art facility, near Bungendore, about 30 minutes’ drive from Canberra, houses up to 750 staff and will bring together for the first time the Chief of Joint Operations; maritime, land, air and special operations staff; the joint operations intelligence cen-

tre; the Special Operations Commander Australia and other Defence command elements.

The opening featured a short parade by Australia’s Federation Guard and the unveiling of a brass bust of the former CDF, GEN Baker, whose vision for com-bined command and control operations in the 1990s led to the HQJOC concept.

As the command and control hub of the ADF, HQJOC enhances Australia’s interoperability with coalition partners.

TOP BRASS: Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and CDF ACM Angus Houston join Mrs Margaret Baker in front of a brass bust of her late husband, GEN John Baker, at the opening of HQJOC. Photo: CPL Chris Moore

LESSONS: LAC Matthew Tolcher and SGT Erin Jacobson perform routine operations in the NECSS Command Post as part of Exercise Night Watch at RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: LAC Casey Smith

By SQNLDR John Force

GOOD work from 1 Airfield Op-erations Support Squadron (1AOSS) has ensured that the town of Karumba in flooded far north Queensland again has drinking water.

Record floods had damaged the town’s water supply pipeline so even though there was water all around as far as the eye could see, the situation was dire.

Karumba was now an inland island with no road access and the Army could not reach it to provide a much-needed water purification system. This meant the only way to get clean water for the town was by air.

With nearly two metres of rain falling over two months, however, the condition of Karumba airfield was questionable.

1AOSS sent in an Airfield Survey Team consisting of Airfield Engineer FLGOFF Kenneth Edwards and Works Supervisor WOFF Tony Guterres to assess if the airfield could support a heavily laden C-130.

The team flew to Normanton before transferring to helicopter for the 100km flight west to the Karumba airfield.

The airfield survey gave the all clear, 1AOSS once again living up to its unit motto of “Strike Further”.

Within days, the Air Force had air-lifted Army’s 3 Combat Engineer Regiment equipment and personnel into Karumba and they started producing clean water.

By early March, more than five mil-lion litres of drinking water had been produced and the task will continue until the floodwaters recede.

In February, a trades team from 1AOSS was put on standby to help in flooded Ingham. The team included heavy plant operators, engineers, work supervisors, carpenters, plumbers and electricians. However, with the civil authorities requiring limited military assistance, the bulk of the team was re-tasked to assist with the Victorian bush fires [as reported in the March 5 edi-tion].

1AOSS dashes to Karumba’s rescue

MUCH-NEEDED AID: LAC Adam Wissmer from 1AOSS loads supplies into the cargo hold of a C-130 at Karumba Airfield. Photo: CPL Col Dadd

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By Andrew Stackpool

AIR Force personnel continue to demonstrate their generosity as further donations roll in to help the victims of the Victorian bushfires.

In the Middle East Area of Opera-tions, personnel from the C-130 de-tachment raised more than another $7500 to take their total tally to more than $17,000.

Also abroad, members of 324 Combat Support Squadron (324CSS) and other staff at RMAF Base Butterworth con-tributed RM3400 (about $1500) to the appeal.

FLTLT Tanya Carter, from 324CSS, said that more that 80 members of the Butterworth ADF community held a triv-ia night in Penang.

Event organiser Rachel Mathers, a member of the Butterworth Support Group, was overwhelmed with the sup-port shown by the ADF community and local businesses.

“I had an absolute ball doing it,” Ms Mathers said. “I would like to make spe-cial mention of Georgia Sharpe, a student from the Uplands International School in Penang, who pledged RM150 of her own money, earned through babysitting for local ADF families.”

After 10 rounds, the 92WG Det A team was declared the winner.

CO 324CSS WGCDR Ken Robinson said he applauded the Butterworth Support Group for all of its hard work in planning the evening and to the community who turned up and opened their wallets.

“The ADF community here in Penang was devastated by the recent events in Victoria and we would like to pass on that our thoughts and prayers are with all of those who have been affected by this terrible tragedy,” he said.

RAAF Base Edinburgh was also busy and by March 6 had increased its tally to almost $20,500, including $800 raised at the officers’ dining-in night.

Defcredit executive marketing man-ager Phil Elliott said this was a tremen-dous effort by the base – that represented about 30 per cent of the Air Force total provided to the credit union.

“It followed an email sent round by the base commander urging staff to sup-port the fund,” Mr Elliott said. “Our local

By March 10, $111,917.35 had been raised by ADF members across the country through the Defcredit appeal. Final figures through the Defcredit appeal at RAAF bases were: Edinburgh $19,535, Williamtown $13,084, Williams, Laverton $8192, Pearce $3704, Wagga $2698, Glenbrook $2281, East Sale $1500, Amberley $1375, Richmond $1033, Tindal $579, and Darwin $573.

manager said he had members walking in and handing over $500 to $600.”

F u r t h e r n o r t h , R A A F B a s e Williamtown forwarded $13,084 to the fund via its local office.

RAAF Base Amberley also swelled its totals with $8756 passed through the base charities fund.

A collection at the contractors’ gate raised a further $2700, comprising $1700 at the gate and the balance from the air-craft maintenance and repair company John Holland Aviation Services.

Base chaplain WGCDR Andrew Knight said that the total did not include any of the money which was donated through the Defcredit appeal.

Amberley raised $1375 that way.44WG’s FLTLT Kevin Cameron asked

the wing’s Air Traffic Control Officers and technicians if they would consider donat-ing the pay-rise they had received under the Graded Officer Pay Structure.

“The response was fantastic,” FLTLT Cameron said. “They donated approxi-mately $3600. Of this, Pearce contributed almost $1400.” 324CSS acknowledges the many locals who donated prizes for the trivia night, including the Australian All Ranks Club, the Butterworth Support Group, The ADF Tigers Cricket Club, Ned Kelly’s, Mansion 32, The Wine Shop, manager of the Hostie Michael Chuah, and contractor Terry Tat.

Tally mounts

Hearts gHearts goo out forout forvictimsvictims

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME: Above, the final cheque of $8756 raised at RAAF Base Amberley is signed by WOFF Steve Holland (right) as GPCAPT Corrie Metz signs the authorisation request form before the cheque is handed to the Australian Red Cross. Photo: LAC Dan PinhornBUT WE CARE AFAR TOO: Right, Rachel Mathers, organiser of the trivia night in Penang for Butterworth members, shows some of the money raised. In the background her helpers tally up the fundraising efforts. Photo: FLTLT Tanya Carter

BUCKETS OF UNDERSTANDING: Defcredit branch supervisor Nicole Scandura, personal assistant to the CO of Combat Support Unit Greg Crotty, and RAAF Base Edinburgh Chaplain FLTLT Darryl Mattner with the money raised in South Australia. Photo: LAC Vasilis Solomou

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By John Martin

FLTLT Steve Cutajar could be excused for feeling happy to be invited back by the US Marine Corps (USMC) to their Air Weap-ons Training School (MAWTS).

Not long ago, he completed a two-month post-graduate special-ist course at the school in Yuma, Arizona.

Now he’s been invited back next month – this time to instruct others in his specialist area.

“It will definitely be differ-ent,” he said. “As a guest instruc-tor I won’t have to study for any exams ... just pass on experience and knowledge.”

FLTLT Cutajar is on exchange to the US Navy flying E2C Hawkeyes. For the past two years he has been based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

The E2C is the Navy version of an AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System), but smaller. It is

a five-person (two pilots and three Navy flying officers) aircraft used to give early warning to US carrier groups at sea.

FLTLT Cutajar’s school teaches new Navy flying officers how to use the radar, comms, link and systems of the aircraft, and how to control aircraft such as fighters before they go to the fleet.

He was invited to the MAWTS as a student to learn about employ-ing the US Marine Corps from a command and control standpoint.

Hi s exper t i se mus t have impressed them there because now he’s been invited back.

“We use a piece of equipment called Co-operative Engagement Capability (CEC), which is used to share information between plat-forms, similar to Link systems, but better,” he said. “It is a Navy system that the Marines are purchasing.”

FLTLT Cutajar has been asked to give a one-hour brief on it as well as a brief on the capabilities

of the E2C Hawkeye and how the Navy employs it, so the Marines can gain some appreciation for joint and combined operations down the line.

When he went there as a stu-dent, the course involved 96 officer students, 57 enlisted students, 2000 support staff, $US12.4 million in ordnance and 1600 sorties by air-craft that included CH-46s, CH-53s, AH-1s, UH-1s, MV-22s, KC-130s, E-3s, F/A-18s, AV-8s, EA-6Bs, F-5s and Russian Mil Mi-24s at MAWTS.

FLTLT Cutajar joined a myriad of radar operators, pilots, air traffic controllers, E-3 controllers, JSTARS operators and even some NATO players to learn about employing the USMC in full operations.

“The course gave insight into various platforms used by not only the USMC but also NATO and other US forces.

“Everything was based around the mission and supporting the troops on the ground,” he said.

THE Repatriation Medical Authority (RMA) has decided to re-examine Gulf War Syndrome fol-lowing the release of findings from a study of US Gulf War I veterans by the US Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

The study found evidence across all cases reported that con-firmed the disease is real, and could be associated with the use of Pyridostidmine Bromide pills, a drug that was issued to the 1873 Australian personnel serving in the Gulf at the time to combat the effects of exposure to nerve agents.

The RMA previously stated it

was unable to make a statement of principles for Gulf War Syndrome, because the symptoms did not con-stitute a specific syndrome.

Australian Gulf War veterans suffering ill effects from their serv-ice, including symptoms associated with Gulf War Syndrome, have access to compensation and health care through the repatriation sys-tem.

The RMA has invited interested people and organisations to make submissions after obtaining a copy of the RMA Submission Guidelines from www.rma.gov.au. Submissions close on May 29.

Gulf War Syndrome review

School’s inFINE HUMOUR IN YUMA: FLTLT Steve Cutajar in a Russian Mil Mi-24 Hind Gunship in which he got to fly when he went to the school in Arizona as a student. Photo: FLTLT Cutajar

Iraqi PM thanksADF for its help

THE ADF’s role in the reconstruc-tion of Iraq was recognised on March 12 at the Australian War Memorial with a visit from its Prime Minister, Nouri Kamil al-Maliki.

In a moving and dignified ceremony in the Hall of Memory, where ADF per-sonnel mounted a catafalque party, Mr al-Maliki laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as those in his entourage, ADF members and the media looked on.

At an afternoon tea address in the courtyard gallery, where a representa-tive gathering was attended by some Army, Navy and Air Force personnel who had served in Iraq, Mr al-Maliki was welcomed by Chief of Army LTGEN Ken Gillespie.

Mr al-Maliki thanked Australia for its assistance in Iraq to counter terror-ism and aggression and also extended his sympathy to “the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in helping Iraq”.

SGT Nathan Lindsay, who did a tour of duty in Iraq and is now with the Directorate of Military Administration – Air Force in Canberra, said it was good to see Mr al-Maliki come to Australia to thank the people who had been to help rebuild and equip Iraq to move forward in the future.

“The acknowledgement makes the time spent away from family worth-while and you feel as though you have made a significant contribution to the growing of that nation,” SGT Lindsay said.

MARK OF RESPECT: Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki walks past the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial. Photo: SGT Rob Nyffenegger

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By LAC Aaron Curran

A 34SQN Crew Attendant (CRE-WATT) has been recognised for her quick thinking and dedication to the job, which might have averted a nasty accident on a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ).

CPL Lisa Hockings, based at Defence Establishment Fairbairn, was recently presented with a Good Show Award by Commander Air Lift Group AIRCDRE John Oddie.

On February 18 last year, CPL Hockings noticed during the aircraft shut-down procedures that something was not right, and alerted the cabin supervisor.

34SQN BBJ Flight Commander SQNLDR Peter Geddes, speak-ing after the presentation, explained the significance of CPL Hocking’s actions.

As an aircraft taxis into its parking position, a command is made by the pilot at the appropriate time to disarm the doors.

A girt bar at the bottom of the door is attached to the floor and once in that position it is armed.

To disarm the door the girt bar is then re-attached to the door itself.

In flight, the doors and escape slides are armed and the instant the

doors are opened in an emergency, an explosive charge fires the escape slides out from the door at great speed.

“In this particular instance, the pilots got distracted, the call to disarm was not made and the cabin supervi-sor went to open the door,” SQNLDR Geddes said.

If ground crew bring an airbridge or stairs up to the door and it is opened while armed, the slide will fire straight out.

If a member of the ground crew happens to be on the stairs at the time, serious injury or death could result.

“In this instance, the ground crew were driving the stairs up to the door and someone then went to the top of the stairs,” he said.

“CPL Hockings alerted the cabin supervisor to the problem with the door, which was then passed on to the pilots.

“She potentially saved that ground crew member from serious injury or death and the aircraft from significant damage.”

The award citation said CPL Hockings’s excellent understanding of the correct procedures and a willing-ness to speak up saved the day.

Her attention to detail during the aircraft’s arrival and subsequent

actions displayed a level of situational awareness and capability beyond that expected of a CREWATT of her expe-rience level.

“It was an excellent example of the Crew Resource Management that we teach all aircrew to encourage people to work as a team,” SQNLDR Geddes said.

“Also, another good example of attention to detail, which is important to what we do.”

He said CPL Hockings is very pro-fessional and dedicated with a great sense of humour, and everybody at 34SQN gets on well with her.

“We also only have two of these aircraft, so to have one off-line due to damage would not be a good out-come.”

AIRCDRE John Oddie spoke at the presentation on the importance of safety in aviation.

“I believe of all the awards we hand out, aviation safety speaks of the underlying notion of what our profes-sion in aviation is – our attention to detail and commitment to profession-alism,” AIRCDRE Oddie said.

“Looking around, observing, see-ing and acting.

“That is what aviation is all about.”

Lisa on the ball on BBJ

RECOGNISED: CPL Lisa Hockings earned a Good Show Award for her actions in averting a potential accident on a BBJ aircraft. Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

INTELLIGENCE ON BOARDwww.thalesgroup.com.au

Photograph © Dominique Gonod.

Aerospace. Defence. Security.


By FLGOFF Eamon Hamilton

DESPITE a 66-year absence, William “Maxie” Hillis didn’t miss a beat when he returned to RAAF Base Richmond on his 100th birthday.

Born January 16, 1909, the cen-tenarian appeared in his element when he toured the flightline and hangars that were his home during the early years of World War II.

Mr Hillis served as a flight rig-ger when he joined the RAAF in 1940, and later served at Richmond as a fitter before he discharged as LAC in 1943.

Richmond in the early 1940s was home to a burgeoning war effort; training airmen at No. 2 Recruit Depot as well as honing the fighting skills for 6, 22 and 30SQNs.

Walking through the hangars which once housed the Wirraway trainers and Boston bombers that he worked on, Mr Hillis said simply, “this is my place”.

Those same hangars now house airframe hulks for C-130 and Caribou airframes to train the next batch of airlift crews and air move-ments personnel.

On the basis of camaraderie and

anecdotes shared by Mr Hillis with the current crop of LACs at 37SQN, little appears to have changed at Richmond.

Mr Hillis was presented with several letters of congratulation for his centenary, including Governor-General Quentin Bryce, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, and the Queen.

To mark his visit, Mr Hillis also received presentations from CO 285SQN WGCDR Michael Rosenthal, and CO 22 (City of Sydney) Squadron SQNLDR Ivan Benitez-Aguirre.

Just like old times again

CENTENARIAN RETURNS: LAC Nicholas Hayes

shows William “Maxie” Hillis

around RAAF Base Richmond.

When Mr Hillis reported for duty

at the base in the early 1940s, it was

abuzz with the war effort, training

airmen at No. 2 Recruit Depot and honing the fighting skills for 6, 22 and

30SQNs.Photo: LACW Amanda

Campbell

By FLGOFF Eamon Hamilton

THE red flag has gone up at RAAF Base Richmond with the opening of a new shooting range.

The 25m range will allow the Ground Defence Training Section at 325 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron to conduct all aspects of weapons currency on base.

Anticipation at the range opening on February 18 was evident, with a ‘ribbon shooting’ ceremony followed immediately by the live-fire qualifica-tion of 50 personnel on the first day.

Present for the shooting of the rib-bon at the range’s inauguration were Commander Air Lift Group AIRCDRE John Oddie, CO 325ECSS WGCDR Chris Phelan, and the Richmond Manager Base Services, Chris Young.

WGCDR Phelan said the delivery of the range was a testament to the efforts of many.

“I would particularly like to thank Defence Support Group for their efforts in overcoming some significant site preparation and weather challeng-es,” he said.

“The commissioning of this range represents a direct contribution to enhancing our preparedness capability.

“I expect the range to significant-ly increase efficiency for the Ground Defence Training Section in qualifying members in their weapons handling and live fire certifications.

“I’m sure that all personnel here will appreciate the implications of improved access in having a range at Richmond.”

Previously, personnel at Richmond were required to conduct their weap-ons handling test at the base’s Ground Defence Training Section, and then lat-er travel to the ranges at Holsworthy Barracks to do their shoot.

That meant a day lost to travel-ling through Sydney to Holsworthy and wai t ing to conduct the i r shoot, and many extra hours worked by the members of Ground Defence Training Section.

“The commissioning of the range has occurred just in time,” WGCDR Phelan said.

“Access to the ranges at Holsworthy

Barracks has been becoming more dif-ficult and we’ve got people coming from all over Air Force to use our new Ground Defence Training Section.”

Shoots are required biannually as part of each Air Force member’s Individual Readiness, although mem-bers undertaking Middle East Area of Operations Force Preparation are also required to undertake a shoot.

“There’s a large volume of person-nel at Richmond who regularly need to complete Force Preparation Training and who will appreciate the convenience of this new shooting range,” WGCDR Phelan said.

“Especially at units such as 37SQN, 1 Combat Communication Squadron and 3 Combat Support Hospital.”

At homee on the range

SHOOTING SUCCESS: CO 325ECSS WGCDR Chris Phelan fires the first rounds at the official opening of the RAAF Base Richmond firing range. Photo: LACW Amanda Campbell

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By John Martin

IT WAS probably fitting that the Queen looked over the ceremo-ny when Bill Allardyce was pro-moted to WGCDR at RAAF Base Amberley.

Not in person, of course – her portrait hung on the wall at Combat Support Group headquarters.

But her presence was extra spe-cial because she was one of the many VIPs that WGCDR Allardyce carried when he was posted to 33SQN at RAAF Base Richmond from the late ’80s. He has fond memories of travelling to London to pick up the Queen and her entou-rage.

These days WGCDR Allardyce is back at 33SQN, which is now based at Amberley.

He does not fly anymore because he’s had a long-running battle with cancer and works remotely from

home via computer, only visiting the base every couple of weeks. Physio has helped him graduate from a wheelchair to a walking stick and he is now able to drive a modified vehicle.

“Although it has been a hard slog to handle the recovery from this dis-ease, it is clear that both the treat-ment and on-going review of my condition is constantly improving,” he said.

WGCDR Allardyce remembers when he was a boy going to see his grandfather who worked as an engi-neer at the Ansett depot in Eagle Farm in Brisbane. The seeds to his future career might have been sown then.

He joined the Air Force in 1977 at 17. He started as an engine fit-ter and was posted to 9SQN. The present CDF, ACM Angus Houston was there too – as a FLTLT pilot.

As part of the job, he got to go

on test flights around the base or on longer deployments, sometimes fly-ing next to the pilot, and he decided he liked the look of the job.

In 1982, he was accepted into 122 Pilots Course and began fly-ing Hercules – a far cry from the Iroquois helicopters he was used to working on but a fine entrée to fly-ing.

In 1986 he was posted to 33SQN, flying VIP jets.

The Queen wasn’t the only one of his special passengers.

Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Prince Philip, UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali, prime min-isters Bob Hawke, Paul Keating and John Howard, and several gov-ernors-general have also been on board.

Flying has taken WGCDR Allardyce to the four corners of the world. “South America is the only box I haven’t ticked,” he said.

By WOFF Brenden Clarke

AFTER one of its own was diag-nosed with cancer last year, the School of Postgraduate Studies (SPS) at RAAF Base Wagga was especially happy to donate $3250 to Riverina Cancer Care.

And, fittingly, it was that member, FSGT Paul Abela, and his wife Karen who handed over the cheque on behalf of SPS.

The money for the local centre was raised from student training dining-in nights and donations from staff, guests and promotion courses held throughout the year.

SPS CO WGCDR Callum Brown said the fundraising effort was a great example of the Air Force family com-ing together to help a very worthy cause.

He said the fundraiser was close to everyone’s heart because of FSGT Abela’s experience.

“Riverina Cancer Care Centre pro-vided him and his family with excel-lent support and treatment and this was our way of showing our appreciation and gratitude for their efforts,” WGCDR Brown said.

“It was truly inspiring to see staff and students throughout the year across all courses so willing to dig deep when they heard of the fundraiser.”

Look at him now, Ma’am

SPS students and staff give generously after mate’s cancer treatment

FSGT Abela said he was “absolutely amazed and extremely grateful to every-one who has helped me and my family throughout an extremely tough year.

“To everyone from the staff at the Cancer Care Centre and National Capital Hospital, Canberra Surgi-centre, Health Services Flight Wagga, the Defence Community Organisation (DCO), my work mates and all of the students that donated money and offered their sup-port, I just want to say a big thank you,” he said.

“You made a tough time a little easier to cope with.”

FSGT Abela’s treatment is continuing but he is back at work and doing well.

BIG COMMITMENT: From left, Riverina Cancer Care Practice Nurses Dianne White and Meredith Cummins, Karen Abela, FSGT Paul Abela and SPS CO, WGCDR Callum Brown. Photo: Lynne McMahon

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT: WGCDR Bill Allardyce, flanked by his wife Nicki and GPCAPT Paul Hislop at his promotion ceremony which was attended by friends, family and colleagues. Photo: CPL Melina Mancuso

10 AIR FORCE March 19, 2009 11 Centrepiece

Touch of TindalAIR FORCE News

takes a pictorial look at our people up north

PERFECT FIT: Above, 75SQN pilot FLGOFF Daniel Truitt tries a Super Hornet out for size during the recent visit of two US Navy Super Hornets to RAAF Base Tindal for trials. Photo: SGT Pete GammieSLOW DOWN: Left, Security Police members LACs Karl Ruprecht and Joel Nicholls conduct speed checks in the married quarter patch at Tindal.AT YOUR SERVICE: Right, LACW Sheree Deane assists a member at the base clothing store. Photos: LAC Casey Smith

SHINING LIGHT: SGT Christian Mingay performs a magnetic particle inspection of a Hornet armament extractor housing under an ultraviolet light. Photo: LAC Casey Smith

ROOM WITH A VIEW: Above, SGT Robert Bramham tests the F400-404 Hornet engine from the soundproofed sealed control room at 75SQN. Photo: FSGT Mark McIntyre I’M HAPPY TO HELP: Left, ACW Kellie Gill assists a squadron member with an administrative task as one of the clerks who works at the RAAF Base Tindal 322ECSS Orderly Room. Photo: LAC Casey Smith

NEW SKID ON THE BLOCK: Above, SGT Darren Evans looks into the Panther fire truck and left, puts it through its paces on the tarmac. The Panther fire trucks are at RAAF Base Tindal to provide conversion for fire crews before their introduction into service on the base. Photos: SGT Pete GammieMAINTENANCE: Right, CPL Shannon Molloy services the remote rocket initator of the Martin Baker ejection seat used in the Hornet. Photo: LAC Casey Smith

WHAT’S IN STORE: Above, LACW Rebecca Lavis checks the stock against the report in the 322ECSS warehouse. PAINT JOB: Left, LAC Tom Bayliss masks up an F/A-18 component in preparation for a total respray. Photos: LAC Casey Smith

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13 FeatureAIR FORCE March 19, 2009

A ONCE-in-a-lifetime opportu-nity came up for a 36SQN mem-ber while on Exercise Long Look in Britain last year.

FSGT Scott Biddell, an avionics technician at RAAF Base Amberley, took part in the rebuilding of a hut made famous in the Great Escape during World War II when 76 allied airmen escaped from German POW camp Stalag Luft III in Zagan, Poland.

Of the 73 that were recaptured, 50, including five Australians, were murdered by the Gestapo.

FSGT Biddell took part in a charity event known as Project 104, the building of a replica of Hut 104, the hut used to conceal the escapees’ tunnel, ‘Harry’. It now serves as a memorial education centre to the Allied Service personnel who were involved in the Great Escape.

“I took part in a Royal Air Force ‘Staff Ride’,” FSGT Biddell said.

“It can be a day trip to a mili-tary museum or a five-day on-site examination of a historical military campaign.”

The Staff Ride and building project took place from August 3 to 17, and took in visits to a variety of locations in Germany and Poland. The hut build took place simultane-ously with the staff ride elements, enabling two 17 member teams to alternate between building and staff riding on a three-day turnaround.

“The building of the hut, a few kilometres from the original site of Stalag Luft III, enhanced our leader-ship qualities, team working skills and inter-Service and international relations.”

Rebuilding the Great Escape hut

By John Martin

IT GLADDENS Simon Van Balle-kom’s heart to see that children both small and tall get the same buzz out of his red and white drag ute as he does.

The ute is painted in the same livery as one of the Roulette Pilatus PC-9/A aircraft. Heck, it even has some familiar Air Force markings, like some tape at the front that says: REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT.

Not that this car can actually fly – well, not in the same aeronautical loop-the-loop style that the Roulettes achieve – but it is the prize exhibit when Mr Van Ballekom, until recently an LAC with the Security Police at East Sale, takes it to local schools and charity shows.

“Kids especially like to sit in the car and play with all the switches and pre-tend to drive,” Mr Van Ballekom said.

The car is a 1999 Ford AU ute shell on a full chassis, tubbed and with a 10-point roll cage. Its engine is a 393ci Stroker running on aviation turbine fuel (AVGAS).

The most common misconception

is that the car is partially funded by Defence but it’s not. It is run, funded and displayed by Mr Van Ballekom, though he does hand out promotional Air Force merchandise when it is available.

Mr Van Ballekom started displaying the car about five years ago. When he bought it, it had 40,000kms on the clock and was painted metallic blue.

Last year he decided to change the colour. “I wanted a paint scheme that would grab attention and was something different. The paint scheme was going to originally be a 2OCU F/A-18 scheme,” he said.

When he settled on the Roulette tem-plate, he signed a contract with Air Force Brand Management to ensure he did not breach copyright.

Since the livery change, he has only taken it to a handful of shows, and he has not raced it in drag races since it was blue.

He’s waiting on some new parts.When the car is ready, it will be inter-

esting to see if it goes any faster now it’s painted like a Roulette.

IN DRAG: Simon Van Ballekom’s ute in its red and white glory.

Beaut ute puts new spin on Roulettes

The 25m x 15m hut was built under the guidance of the British Army Royal Engineers and project officers to original specifications but with today’s standards applied.

“It was a challenge to all of us given that none were trained build-ers, carpenters, glaziers or construc-tion workers and there was a limited amount of mechanised support avail-able.

“The building took place in per-fect conditions for me, with sunny days in the low-to-mid 30s, which most of the Poms moaned about, while I barely broke a sweat.”

The team only had two weeks to complete the project, whereas pro-fessional builders would normally take three weeks. The team man-aged to complete it and make the opening ceremony.

The ceremony was attended by former POWs, a Polish military cer-emonial guard, numerous VIPs, the Australian Ambassador to Poland and the Air Force Air Adviser – London, GPCAPT Peter Norford, who also assisted on the final day of building.

The Staff Ride met the objectives of enhancing participant’s knowl-edge of RAF/RAAF military history, development of its ethos and under-standing the accomplishments of the officers and airmen who escaped from POW camps and evaded cap-ture during WWII.

“It was an incredible eye-open-er to the activities and hardships endured by civilians, prisoners, escapees and their leaders during the war,” FSGT Biddell said. “It was an amazing opportunity to be part of such a project, sharing in the incred-ible spirit and camaraderie among the team members. It is something that will never be forgotten and it’s hard to find the words to describe it.”

He said the project also stood as a memorial to the five Australians and would serve as a reminder to future generations from many nationalities of their endurance and sacrifice.

“I stood at the opening ceremo-ny representing the pride that every member of the Air Force has in those who served before us, and what they engendered into what our Air Force stands for and values today.”

FSGT Biddell strongly recom-mends any junior officer or SNCO to seriously consider what they could achieve by taking an opportunity that could be one of the highlights of their service careers. “It certainly was for me.”

Exercise Long Look this year will run from March 23 to July 24.

For more information, history and pictures of the build and Staff Ride sites, visit www.raf.mod.uk/project104

WILD ABOUT HARRY: FSGT Scott Biddell, putting his energy into helping to replicate the 25m x 15m hut made famous in the Great Escape during World War II under the guidance of the British Army Royal Engineers and project officers and, right, pictured at the right on parade at the opening. “It was an incredible eye-opener to the activities and hardships endured by civilians, prisoners, escapees and their leaders during the war,” he said. Pictures: CPL Scott Robertson

LASTING MEMORIAL: It was hot work for many of the Britons, but not for FSGT Scott Biddell.

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By LAC Aaron Curran

TEN years’ experience in the military, a two-for-one offer and an accent that can at times leave people bewildered.

This is the description of two of Air Force’s latest overseas additions – FLTLTs Lizelle and Nico Fourie. The Fouries spent 10 years in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) as Army officers specialising in human resources. It was while they were in the SANDF they met, got married and had two children – Ian and Linice.

After Linice was born in 2007, they decided it was time to search for greener pastures to secure a brighter future for their family. After lots of research and influence from friends, they decided that the greener pastures were in Australia with the RAAF.

“We chose the RAAF because of the income and security that it afforded us,” Lizelle said.

“We were in the Army, but also worked in Air Force units and there was no comparison. We found in South Africa, and then in Australia, that the Air Force is people-orien-tated and looks after its members.”

With that information in mind they chose to join the RAAF.

After due process, they signed all the relevant documents on May 5, 2008, in front of a witness at the Australian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa.

“We’re a two-for-one deal,” she said. “We are both Administration Officers and have brought to the RAAF 10 years of general human resource experience combined with management skills and other unique attributes and perspectives on a lot of matters. But in saying that, we are both learning lots of new things and enjoy those challenges.”

When they arrived in Australia, they were welcomed at the airport by a group of RAAF members, which Lizelle said “made us feel really spe-cial and important”.

Two members then escorted them around Canberra for a week to assist them in getting their affairs in order.

“There was often the ‘sorry, please repeat what you just said’ expression on certain faces, but peo-ple are slowly getting used to the way we speak,” Lizelle said.

To add icing on the immigration cake, they all became Australian Citizens on December 5 in a ceremo-

ny in Canberra, attended by seven of their new workmates.

“Our dog was released from quar-antine on October 24, which is the date I suppose he became a citizen too,” she said.

“We appreciated our workmates attending, considering we have no relatives at all in Australia that could witness it and celebrate this achieve-ment with us.”

Lizelle’s supervisor, SQNLDR Paul McLeod from the Directorate of Personnel – Air Force, said Lizelle had adapted quickly to her new work-ing environment.

“She has an engaging personality and a very positive attitude,” he said.

“All the staff cannot wait to sam-ple some South African cuisine, par-ticularly a good feed of potjiekos fol-lowed by some ystervarkies.”

Lizelle said after preparing them-selves mentally for the move, Ian and Linice had adjusted well.

“We all appreciate the freedom to be able to take strolls and sit outside just enjoying each others’ company,” she said.

“We also appreciate a lot of things that Australians born here take for granted, and we love every minute of every new experience.”

Fouries out of Africa

WE’RE HOME: Ian, 8, jumps for joy on the family’s backyard trampoline as parents FLTLTs Nico and Lizelle Fourie, and sister Linice, 18 months, look on. The FLTLTs served in the South African National Defence Force before joining the RAAF as Administration Officers. The Fourie family received their Australian citizenship in Canberra last December, supported by their new colleagues and friends from DP-AF. Photo: LAC Aaron Curran

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15 FlightlineAIR FORCE March 19, 2009

PHYSICAL SECURITY: Above, LACW Zara Smith, a member of SECPOL at work in the Middle East Area of Operations. Photo: SGT Brent TeroVEHICLE CHECK: Left, LAC Scott Woodward checks underneath a vehicle at the AP-3C detachment in the Middle East while on security detail. Photos: SGT Brent TeroIN HIS OFFICE: Right, 11SQN air combat officer FLGOFF Matthew Coombes mans his station on an AP-3C patrol task during Operation Resolute. Photo: CPL Chris Moore

WELL DONE: Above, newly promoted SGT Craig Read from 38SQN with CAF AIRMSHL Mark Binskin at RAAF Base Townsville. Photo: FLTLT Derryn HarvieTIED DOWN: Below, LAC Alan Stanton from 1AOSS secures the rations before the journey north from RAAF Base Townsville to flooded Ingham. Photo: CAPT Al Green

GETTING READY: FLTLT Sue Withers, a nurse from 2ATHS, gets to work preparing the medical facility at RAAF Learmonth during Operation Resolute. Photo: AC Mark Friend

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16 History AIR FORCE March 19, 2009

BULLETIN BOARDAir Force BandMarch 21: The Low Brass Ensemble will perform at the Pakenham Annual Show at the Pakenham Race Course.March 23: Air Power Brass will perform at Xavier College as part of the Xavier Brass Festival from 1pm.March 25: The Ceremonial Band will support the 1RTU graduation parade at RAAF Base Wagga from 11am.March 26: The Ceremonial Band will support the 2FTS pilots’ graduation at RAAF Base Pearce from 10.30am.March 29: The Ceremonial Band will lead the annual Weerama Procession at Werribee, Victoria, from 11am.March 31: Catalina Wind Quintet will provide background music for the RAAF Association meeting at Saxon House, Ballarat.March 31: The Ceremonial Band will support the RAAF birthday celebrations in Martin Place, Sydney, from 11am.March 31: The Air Force Wind Quintet will per-form as part of the RAAF anniversary celebra-tions at the Officers’ Mess at RAAF Base Wagga.March 31: Air Power Brass will support the RAAF anniversary commemoration service in Canberra from 11am.

Anzac Legacy concertThe annual Legacy Anzac concert will be held in Canberra on Sunday, April 5. As in previous years, hundreds of Legacy Widows from the ACT, Queanbeyan and surrounding areas will be spe-cial guests at the concert. The Band of the Royal Military College will present the first half of the concert, with the second half featuring songs from the Rogers and Hammerstein musical South Pacific and Beach Boys tribute band, the Beach Brothers. The concert will be held at the Royal Theatre, National Convention Centre, starting at 2pm. Tickets are now available through Ticketek on 6219 6666. Adults $20, concessions $10, and children $5.

Clarifi cation

By Andrew Stackpool

THE service of 11 RAAF squadrons in WWII and the sacri-fice of hundreds of their members will be remembered on March 26 at Saint Clement Danes Church (the RAF Chapel) in London when their squadron badges are dedicated.

The squadrons to be honoured are: (fighter) 3, 450, 451, 452, 454 and 457; (bomber) 462, 464 and 466; and (maritime) 458 and 459.

SQNLDR Kylie Green from the Australian High Commission said the badges, which are hand-carved in slate, were installed in the floor of the church in late February.

They represent the end of a long project that stretches back more than five decades when the first badges were laid.

“Organising these last badg-es has taken approximately two years because they are all made by hand,” SQNLDR Green said.

“However, it was important that we get them dedicated to the church while original members are still available to attend.”

The badges join those of the

In the “Air Force phishing for answers in the US” story on page 16 of the February 19 edition, it said that SQNLDR Darren Jones belonged to the Aeronautical Operational Support Group. This should have read the Aerospace Operational Support Group.

Reformed in July 1940, 3SQN served in the Middle East and Italy. Disbanded in July 1946, it reformed in March 1956. Formed in February 1941, 450SQN served in the Middle East and disbanded in August 1945. Formed in February 1941, 451SQN served in the Middle East then in the UK from December 1944. It disbanded in January 1946. Formed in April 1941, 452SQN served in the Mediterranean until June 1942 when it returned to Australia to meet the Japanese threat. It dis-banded in October 1945. Reformed in September 1942, 454SQN served in the Middle East. It disbanded in August 1945. Formed in June 1941, 457SQN served in the UK until September 1942 when it returned to Australia. It disbanded in November 1945. Formed in September 1942, 462SQN served in the Mediterranean and then in the UK from August 1944. It disbanded in September 1945 but reformed on September 25, 2005. Formed in September 1942, 464SQN served in the UK and disbanded in September 1945. Formed in October 1942, 466SQN served in the UK and disbanded in October 1945. Formed in July 1941, 458SQN served in the UK and then the Middle East from February 1942. It disbanded in June 1945. Formed in February 1942, 459SQN served in the Mediterranean and disbanded in April 1945.

Roll of honour

other Australian squadrons that flew in the European, Middle East and African theatres.

On completion of the dedica-tion service, the squadrons of most Commonwealth countries that served alongside the RAF in those theatres during WWII will be rep-resented in the floor of the church.

DCAF AVM Geoff Brown and Head of the Australian Defence Staff and Australian Defence Adviser to the UK, AIRCDRE Steve Martin, will represent the RAAF, while RAF CHAP Adrian Gattrill will conduct the service.

Also present will be the 20 RAAF personnel currently serving in the UK.

Squadron veterans or their fam-ily members from Australia and the UK will join them.

SQNLDR Green said they were anticipating up to 160 people based on the RSVPs they had received, but the figure could grow.

It includes at least 20 of the original squadron members.

“The response to the planned ceremony has been fantastic, with significantly more people making the journey from Australia than

I anticipated,” SQNLDR Green said. “So we should have repre-sentatives attending from all of the squadrons.

“We have a large number of family members attending to rep-resent their fathers who are unable to make the service.

“We also have several of the original squadron members able to make the trip for the ceremony. All of them are in their late 80s or early 90s so it is a great effort on their part.

“We also have several VIPs from the UK attending, includ-

ing the Assistant Chief of the Air Staff, AVM Tim Anderson, and the former Marshal of the Royal Air Force, Sir Michael Beetham, so the event is getting the recognition it deserves from the UK as well.

“And, of course, former RAAF members now living in the UK will also be attending,” she said.

The dedication service will commence at 11am local time and will include a roll of honour in which the names of all veterans attending will be read out.

The service will be followed by refreshments in Australia House.

SLATED FOR GLORY: 3SQN’s hand-made slate badge, which, along with 10 other RAAF squadron badges, will be laid in the RAF Chapel. Photos: SQNLDR Kylie Green

A wing and a prayer

BADGES OF HONOUR: Some of the existing squadron badges on the floor or the RAF Chapel (Saint Clement Danes Church) in London. The badges of the final 11 RAAF squadrons will be dedicated shortly.

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17 LifestyleAIR FORCE March 19, 2009

FINANCE

Look out for scamsPUMP and dump scams have

been around for decades in one form or another. These scams are a way of artificially inflating share prices.

The scammers usually own large parcels of shares in small publicly list-ed companies. They attempt to drive up the share price by spruiking false statements to unsuspecting victims.

If the scammers succeed in con-vincing enough people to buy shares, the share price will inevitably increase beyond its real worth.

Once this happens (i.e. the ‘pump’) the scammers sell (i.e. ‘dump’) their shares at the peak of the price spike.

When the scammers sell their shares, the price decreases, liquidity in the shares falls and victims are left holding shares at their deflated value.

Typically, pump and dump scams take advantage of shares that are of extremely low value, often referred to as ‘penny stocks’. This makes it easier for the scammers to pump up the price. These scams often involve companies that are likely to have unexpected price spikes anyway, for example, emerging mining companies.

Pump and dump scams are ille-gal. The operators of pump and dump scams can be charged with a varie-ty of offences, including misleading

investors with false rumours relating to stock exchange-listed companies. If found guilty, the operators of pump and dump scams can be jailed and heavily fined.

Keep a look outPump and dump scams can sur-

face in many different ways including online, by phone, by text message or in person. It’s important that if someone does make contact ‘out of the blue’, people do their research and consider getting professional financial advice before making an investment decision.

OnlineRealistic and professional websites

that claim to give ‘share tips’ or offer ‘investment opportunities’ are aplen-ty. These websites sometimes try to get people to subscribe to their serv-ices and often quote alleged industry experts. People need to look beyond the slick presentation to find the real information.

The internet is a great way to share information. However, with this free-dom also comes the ability to easi-ly mislead people. There are lots of investment and finance forums, chat rooms and blogs out there.

While most of the information may be legitimate, there will always be

Share scams that catch people look realistic and are often presented professionally. ASIC Chairman Tony D’Aloisio explains what to look for so you don’t get caught out.

some people who are trying to push their own agenda.

Watch out for comments from peo-ple who are supposedly giving ‘inside knowledge’ or a ‘heads up’. These tips could be people trying to serve their own interest with a pump and dump scam.

By phoneSometimes scammers operate out

of call centres and have teams of peo-ple working the phones to pump up a share’s price. Sometimes these are based overseas, sometimes within Australia.

If someone rings out of the blue, it’s best just to hang up.

Sometimes the people calling claim to be from a legitimate business and say they got your name from a data-

base. In other cases, they claim to be trying to contact someone else and then ‘mistakenly’ give away the hot tip. Don’t fall for this – they’re just trying to make you feel like you have some inside knowledge. Ask the fol-lowing questions:➤ What is your name, address and

phone number? ➤ Do you hold an Australian financial

services licence?➤ What is the name of the company

holding the licence?➤ What is the licence number?➤ What is the l icence holder’s

address?This information can then be

checked to see if they are a legitimate business on ASIC’s consumer website.

Be wary of anyone who claims they don’t need a licence, or who won’t

answer questions. And never agree to anything over the phone.

By text messageThere have been situations where

people have received text messages from unknown senders with what appears to be investment tips.

Often these are written as though it wasn’t intended for the receiver, mak-ing them believe that they’ve stumbled onto a hot tip that was sent acciden-tally.

The safest thing to do is delete the message straight away.

In personThe scammer might have an office,

run seminars, hand out flyers, and even offer to visit people at home to try and persuade them to buy the shares. People must be sure to check the cre-dentials of anyone offering to deal with their finances.

What to do?If you think you’ve been targeted

for a pump and dump scam, the best response is to ignore it and say that you’re not interested.

Always do your own research on shares and consider seeking profes-sional financial advice.

Ask FIDO For more information, including how to obtain financial advice, visit ASIC’s consumer website, FIDO at www.fido.gov.au or call 1300 300 630. Email ASIC with topics that interest you to [email protected]

EXERCISE CAUTION: Protect your money. Don’t be taken in by scammers and seek professional advice. Photo: LSPH Paul McCallum

For a FREE � nancial � tness assessment

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18 Lifestyle AIR FORCE March 19, 2009

HEALTH

A bad brewMANY people enjoy a drink or

two on a night out, but if you are not careful you may become the victim of drink-spiking, regardless of whether you are male or female.

History shows that during the party season there is a greater likelihood of members being exposed to, or involved with, prohibited substances. But it can happen any time of the year.

There are some basic things you can do to protect yourself and your mates from drink-spiking incidents.

What drugs can be used?� Extra alcohol� Sedatives� Rohypnol� GHB (Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate)� Ketamine� Stimulants (less common)� Ecstasy� Speed

What are the symptoms?Most people feel sudden and unmis-

takable symptoms following a spiking incident. However, some people feel few symptoms from a drink-spiking incident, usually because they were extremely drunk in the first place – this is another reason to drink responsibly.

Some of the symptoms may include:� Feeling dizzy or faint, especially if

the feeling comes on suddenly.� Feeling nauseous or sleepy.� Feeling “more drunk” than you

would expect, given how much you have had to drink.

� Losing consciousness.� Waking up with memory blanks.

What should I do?You are in danger if you believe

that you or a friend may have been a drink-spiking victim. Drink spiking is a form of poisoning, and you can never be sure what the impact of the drug will be, especially when com-bined with alcohol. Quick action may save a life or prevent a rape.� Don’t leave the victim alone, under

any circumstances.� Make sure your whole group knows

straight away.� Let the bar staff know immediately.� If the victim loses consciousness,

call an ambulance.� Get the victim away from the venue

and therefore away from potential offenders.

� Notify your MO and CO/OC or, after hours, the base duty officer.

� Report to your nearest medical cen-

tre for testing, even if you are start-ing to feel better.

� Report the incident to the police – drink spiking is a crime.

� Get everyone who was present when the spiking incident occurred to write down everything they can remember about the events leading up to the incident.

Will it affect my career?If you follow the procedures

above, and report the suspected spik-ing incident immediately through your chain of command or, after hours to the duty officer, then DI(G) PERS 15-2, Involvement by Members of the Australian Defence Force with a Prohibited Substance, states that no adverse action will be taken against a member reporting accidental prohib-ited substance use. However, members who report accidental prohibited sub-stance use after being identified for prohibited substance testing should not expect immunity if they test positive to a prohibited susbstance.

So, if you or a mate have had your drink spiked, your first priority is to ensure the victim’s safety, and your immediate second priority is to report it.

Drink spiking is a dangerous offence. Drugs added to victims’ drinks leave them vulnerable. FLTLT Anthony Marinac explains how not to become a victim and what to do if you believe your drink has been spiked.

� Don’t get drunk. A person who is drinking responsibly may still be spiked, but has a better chance of realising it and taking action.

� Never leave your drink unattended or even out of your sight. It takes only a second for someone to spike your drink.

� Don’t get involved in shouts with people you don’t know and trust. Buy your own drinks. Don’t drink anything you didn’t see poured or opened.

� Where possible, buy bottled drinks and keep the lid on. For females, this can easily be slipped into your handbag when danc-

ing. Alternatively, a straw in the bottle may make it harder for an offender to slip a tab-let or powder into your bottle.

� If your drink tastes strange, bitter or salty, throw it away.

� If your drink has bits floating in it, throw it away. Drugs like ecstasy do not fully dis-solve.

� If you’re on a date with someone you don’t know, buy your own drinks and arrange for a friend to call you periodically through the evening.

� Stick together as a group. A drink spiker may try to separate you from your friends after the drug has started taking effect.

STAYING SAFE WHEN OUT AND ABOUT

LETHAL COCKTAIL: Make sure to always watch your drink when you are out socialising.

It is important you respond to this review. Failure to respond by

the due date may cause the payment of your Rent Allowance to

be stopped.

Annual Rent Allowance review

Defence Housing Australia (DHA) wish to advise you that the

annual Rent Allowance review will commence in April 2009.

The review is to establish if there have been any changes

to your domestic circumstances that would affect your Rent

Allowance.

If you are currently in receipt of Rent Allowance, you might

receive a statement, letter and reply paid envelope. If you

receive a letter from DHA you will need to respond by the

advised cut-off date.

You will need to complete the statement with details about your

current rental situation and provide a current rent receipt.

Apply Online at www.adcu.com.au - Phone-a-loan 1300 13 23 28 - Visit your local branchTerms and conditions, fees and charges apply and are available on application. Australian Defence Credit Union Ltd ABN 48 087 649 741 AFSL 237 988.

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19 SportAIR FORCE March 19, 2009

GAME PLANRoad championship� The Australian Defence Running and Athletic

Association (ADRAA) will conduct the 2009 Defence 10km road championship at Empire Park, Newcastle, on March 9.

� Enter at www.hilltoharbour.net and email SQNLDR Richard Gardiner. For more information, visit www.adf.coolrunning.com.au or email [email protected]

Football titles� The 2009 Services Australian Football

Association (ASAFA) Championships will return to Melbourne from April 15 to 19.

� Matches will be played at Whitten and TEAC Ovals, with Army defending both men’s and women’s titles.

Rugby� The Air Force over-35 rugby union team

will play a charity fundraising game

against the ACT Veterans’ Rugby Union Club at Portsea Field, Royal Military College, Duntroon, on March 22.

� Contact GPCAPT Craig Heap on (02) 6265 2859, 0418 481 719 or email [email protected]

Netball� The ADFA Netball Club is seeking a coach. � For further information, contact MAJ

Carla Watts on 6268 8535 or email [email protected]

Tenpin� The ACT and Southern NSW inter-Service

Tenpin Bowling Championships will be held at Canberra International Bowl in Tuggeranong on March 20.

� For more information, contact SGT Keiran Wyllie on (02) 6266 1632 or email [email protected]

Looking for silver lining

By Sharon Palmer and Monique Ndario

AFTER taking a silver medal at the 12th Australian Masters Games in Geelong, captain SGT Geoff Gillard says the ADF men’s 35+ soccer team is aiming for gold at the World Masters later this year.

Unbeaten leading into the gold medal playoff against Barwon, the ADF lost 2-0.

SGT Gillard said the team failed to capitalise on its opportunities.

“We were disappointed because I think we played the better football but they converted their chances and we didn’t,” he said.

SGT Gillard said the team now

Call goes out for hockey players

AIR Force hockey players are looking forward to locking horns and hockey sticks at the upcoming Aus-tralian Defence Hockey Champion-ships in Sydney.

The championships will be held from May 30 to June 5 at Homebush, with Defence representative teams being selected at Homebush to contest the Australian Country Championships at Tamworth from August 1 to 8.

In the lead-up to the champion-ships, ACT and Wagga players will vie for representative honours in Canberra on April 2.

ACT hockey representative WOFF Vicki Chapman said she hoped mem-bers from the permanent and reserve Navy, Army and Air Force, along with Defence APS personnel (DEFGRAM 483/2007), could field full teams to ensure ACT had a competitive inter-Service competition.

All personnel need to be at the

National Hockey Centre in Lyneham by 1pm for pre-game briefings. Players need to bring light and dark coloured shirts and socks, their own sticks, shin and mouth guards.

Nominations are sought for play-ers, coaches and team managers. Those interested should provide their ACT representatives with completed personal details proforma and authori-sation forms by March 27.

For further information, con-tact WOFF Chapman on (02) 6128 7049, fax (02) 6128 7053 or email v i ck i . ch a p m a n 1 @ d e f e n c e . g ov.au; or assistant ACT representative Shayne Borger on 0400 774 763 or email [email protected] or [email protected] For more information on upcoming events or points of contact in your state, visit: http://intranet.defence.gov.au/armyweb/Sites/Hockey/ or contact LEUT Stuart Cayzer on 0411 107 865.

ADF players: WO2 Eddie Balarezo, WO2 Kevan Naughton, WO2 Mark Ninnes, WO2 John Plackett, SQNLDR Alec Tattersall, CAPT Ian Rainbow, FSGT Paul Bonnar, FSGT Brett Chapman, SGT Nelson Aceituno, SGT Geoff Gillard, SGT Scott Hanson, SGT Matt Stacey, SGT Damian Vincent, CPL Colin Dean, CPL Jason Jones, CPL Bradley Moore.Results: ADF 2 beat Barwon 1. ADF 4 beat Surfside 1. ADF 3 beat Pressure 1. Semi-Final, ADF 3 beat Pressure 0. Final, Barwon 2 beat ADF 0.

had its sights set on the World Masters in Sydney in October.

“We are all keen to do another Australian Masters and take home the gold next time but we have also registered for the Worlds and should have an even stronger team as a cou-ple of the guys who couldn’t make it to Geelong will be back and another couple will have turned 35 by then.”

Team manager SGT Andrew Webb said the team performed well all week. “These guys are the best of the best,” he said.

He also said while they brought a high level of military fitness to the park, there was an underlying sense of fun among the players.

SO CLOSE: SGT Geoff Gillard chases down the ball. Photo: Chloe Brian

February 19, 2009

SPORT Inside: ■ Soccer and more hockeyMarch 19, 2009

LET’S STICK TOGETHER

Air Force players to lock horns for representative honours

See P19

RED HOT PLAY: FLTLT James Norman from 28 (City of Canberra) Squadron

controls the ball as a NZDF opponent prepares to block the pass during the

men’s final in the Westgate Trophy hockey series in New Zealand last

November. ADF won both the men’s and women’s series. Photo: CPL Paul Firth, NZDF

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