Serving Australia with prideServing Australia with pride

NEWSNAVYVolume 63, No. 10, June 11, 2020

ON THE FRONT LINE

Our members play vital role

during pandemicPages 3-5

LEUT Annabelle Lyon, left, LEUT Kate Desailly

and LCDR Thomas Miller, participate in the

COVID-19 pandemic relief program at Royal North Shore Hospital,

Sydney.Photo: AB Sittichai

Sakonpoonpol

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2 News June 11, 2020

SGT Max Bree

OLD ways of national defence were starting to take a back seat according to Chief Defence Scientist Tanya Monro.

Professor Monro told the National Press Club on May 27, technology and hyper-connectivity were disrupting traditional strategies such as massed warships, aircraft and soldiers.

“The deterrence that was once afforded by distance has now given way to the perils of proximity,” Professor Monro said.

“New capabilities like hypersonic weapons, high-speed and long-range missiles, and artificial intelligence is increasingly challenging traditional military capabilities.”

Professor Monro said Australia needed a modern force and this was where Defence Science and Technology (DST) and its partners came in.

One priority was addressing reliance on a single GPS framework to guide weapons, coordinate manoeuvres and synchronise computers.

“GPS doesn’t work in all environments, it typically won’t work underground, underwater or sometimes in complex, urban environments,” Professor Monro said.

DST was looking to quantum-assured position, navigation and timing to create alternatives through things such as gravity meters, accelerometers, magnetometers and precision clocks.

Five Eyes scientists and engineers planned to test various, similar capabilities on a New Zealand frigate in 2024.

“In 10 years’ time, we hope to have an alternative to the existing GPS system that will operate in contested environments and deliver that assured positioning, navigation and timing capability our nation

Science leads the

way

– Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro

Defence science will give our service men and women a capability advantage so that they can prevail

in a contested environment.

“

needs,” Professor Monro said.“There is a fabulous opportunity

to bring together world-leading capability that Australia is already developing, to apply it to a practical problem where, in time, that will likely save Australian lives.”

DST scientists also poured efforts into low-tech, additional protection for Bushmaster vehicles, by way of leveraging the hundreds of litres of water they carried on a patrol.

“Our engineers popped to Bunnings, bought some jerry cans and tested what happens in an explosion,” Professor Monro said.

“They demonstrated that if you position water in the right places, the water absorbs energy of an explosion and can help protect its crew – there’s something quintessentially Australian about that discovery.”

Their scientists partnered with a team from the University of Adelaide to develop a cryogenic sapphire clock, that only gains or loses one second over 40 million years.

“This unparalleled precision should guarantee that future upgrades to the JORN high-frequency radar system will allow us to continue to lead the world in this technology,” she said.

A DST scientist’s 1949 paper on aircraft metal fatigue had ramifications for decades. His colleagues later tested 222 Mustang fighter wings and wrote a manual on the ‘Goldilocks zone’ of metal

fatigue, meaning aircraft could be flown to the limits of wear without endangering crews.

“Since that time, we have saved the Australian taxpayer tens of billions of dollars, supporting the safe extension of life and operation of the F1-11s, the F/A-18 Hornets, Hercules, Orions and other aircraft,” Professor Monro said.

“Today, we are using these same principles to assess our latest jets, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, so that the nation gets the most from the world’s most sophisticated stealth fighter.”

DST was also putting technology in space to manage congestion by automatically manoeuvring satellites.

It had built satellites, launched one, with another coming soon.

DST has invested in Australia’s space industry via the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre, backed by universities, industry and government to the tune of more than $250 million.

“This is the largest investment in Australian space industry in our history. These resilient clouds of small, smart satellites will have wider application beyond Defence,” Professor Monro said.

The satellites are envisaged to help manage water resources and help farmers and miners control heavy machinery from hundreds or thousands of kilometres away.

Smart satellites can also support emergency services when other communications were overloaded.

Sophisticated sensors and cameras were used as part of a DST experiment to spot fires over Kangaroo Island and Gippsland, meaning crews could look through smoke and determine fire intensity and movement.

DST’s yearly influenza modelling assisted with COVID-19 pandemic modelling via the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee.

Defence engineers also worked to increase domestic stocks of invasive ventilators by designing a device to convert non-invasive ventilators to perform as invasive units, within three weeks.

“This involved fast-failing a number of prototypes and testing their safety in partnership with university researchers and medical professionals,” Professor Monro said.

“This device now stands ready to be rapidly manufactured should the need arise.”

DST engineers also designed and prototyped face-shields that Axiom Precision Manufacturing is now producing with injection moulds.

“The first batch of 600 face shields went to South Australian hospitals in April for evaluation. They’re cheaper than imported face shields and I’m told more comfortable,” Professor Monro said.

A further 4000 face shields were now being produced.

To keep innovations coming, DST partners with 37 Australian, public universities while maintaining 12 strategic industry alliances.

“Our research and development will provide our country with powerful new technologies,” Professor Monro said.

“Defence Science will give our service men and women a capability advantage so that they can prevail in a contested environment.

“Is Australia up to the challenge in this rapidly changing world full of uncertainties? Absolutely.”

Defence Chief Scientist Professor Tanya Monro addresses the National Press Club in Canberra.

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June 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 3COVID-19 pandemic

LEUT Tanalee Smith

NAVY members working in unique roles at Sydney International Airport and hotels to assist return-ing overseas passengers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic have been thanked personally by Commander Shore Force CAPT Stephen Bowater.

CAPT Bowater spoke to a group of Navy members who had concluded 37 days working on Operation COVID-19 ASSIST.

“You all have been helping keep Australia safe and I know it can be a tough gig,” CAPT Bowater said.

He encouraged the group to share their stories about this unusu-al but crucial service to the nation.

Three members were recog-nised for their outstanding service and awarded Commander Navy Shore Force commendations.

They were SMBML Steward Jack McArtney, of HMAS Watson, ABBM Carlie Briggs and LSML-SC Ayla Peacock, both from HMAS Sydney.

“I applaud these members for their devotion to duty and to Navy core values while performing these jobs,” CAPT Bowater said.

At Sydney International Airport, AB Daniel Sawaqed told CAPT Bowater it was rewarding to support tired families as they arrived after long overseas flights.

“Everyone has been very appre-ciative towards us,” AB Sawaqed said.

“I can’t think of a single person who hasn’t tried to thank me in one way or another as we load their bags and escort them to the bus.”

Earlier this month, CAPT Bowater visited Navy members at Sydney hotels, where passengers were taken for quarantine.

He said the Navy, along with other ADF members, had been in the public eye as representatives during the operation.

“Shouldering this work in sup-port of government has proven Navy capability and I have been proud to see the professionalism and positive attitudes of our sailors and officers as they uphold our reputation,” he said.

“We continue to stand ready to support Australia in this situation.”

Our members thanked

Commander Shore Forces, CAPT Stephen Bowater speaks with AB Lincoln Matahau, left, and AB Daniel Sawaqed, at Sydney International Airport during Operation COVID-19 Assist. Photos: POIS Justin Brown

Helping patients fight the virus

Nursing officers Cody Nash, left, LEUT Annabelle Lyon, LEUT Kate Desailly and LCDR Thomas Miller, participate in the COVID-19 pandemic relief program at the Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney. Photo: AB Sittichai Sakonpoonpol

THE first group of about 200 US marines has arrived at RAAF Base Darwin as part of the ninth Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D).

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said their arrival was the result of extensive planning and coordination to address challenges posed by COVID-19.

“MRF-D is an important initia-tive that deepens interoperability between the ADF and the US mili-tary,” Senator Reynolds said.

“Australia’s Alliance with the United States is our most important Defence relationship.

“It sends a clear signal about our commitment to the security and stability of our region.

“The fact that we were able to modify MRF-D and mitigate risks associated with COVID-19 to allow it to proceed is a strong testament of the resilience of our alliance.”

All marines were biosecurity

Darwin welcomes US Marines

screened and COVID-19 tested on arrival ahead of a 14-day quarantine at Defence facilities in Darwin.

The marines will be tested again for COVID-19 before exiting quarantine.

MRF-D will grow to 1200 personnel over the next eight

weeks and will train through to September.

The rotation will finish with the signature MRF-D/ADF bilat-eral high-end warfighting activity, Exercise Koolendong.

The marines will then return to Japan and the United States.

– LEUT Kate De Sailly Navy Mental Health Nurse

We can’t be complacent now that things are winding down and restrictions are easing.

“

A medical team from ADF and Northern Territory Health conduct pre-quarantine health screenings on the recently arrived US Marine Corps at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: POIS Peter Thompson

NAVY nurses and medics work at Royal North Shore Hospital as part of postings to HMAS Penguin, but when COVID-19 broke out, instead of stopping placements, they were increased as part of the hospi-tals pandemic program.

Navy Nurse Educator LCDR Thomas Miller facilitates learning opportunities for nurses and medics as they rotate through the hospital.

Navy Mental Health Nurse, LEUT Kate De Sailly has been part of the pro-gram since the onset and said they are now in the long-term planning phase.

“We are monitoring any hotspots as they appear and proceeding accordingly,” LEUT De Sailly said.

“We can’t be complacent now that things are winding down and restrictions easing.

Joining the Navy to help make a dif-ference, LEUT De Sailly sees it as a “full-circle” moment.

“It was good to go out and support the community; in the provision of health care and maintaining morale,” she said.

“To continue our placements at the hospital and help a health care system that was stressed from the pandemic.

“It has been an exhilarating moment to be part of a worldwide movement and play a part in it.”

“Our work doesn’t s top when Coronavirus stops. Taking the lessons learned is really important,” LEUT De Sailly said.

“Clinical continuation through place-ment at Royal North Shore Hospital is valuable and will continue, even after this pandemic has finished.”

4 COVID-19 pandemic June 11, 2020

LEUT Alex Hetherington

SINCE the end of March, Navy has been contributing to Headquarters Joint Task Force 629 (HQJTF629)as part of the contribution to the whole-of-government response to COVID-19.

Twenty-eight personnel ranging in rank from seaman to commodore, are assigned to the task force.

Their skills and experience are filling crucial roles in operations, personnel, logistics, intelligence, health and gender advice.

Deputy Commander of HQJTF629 CDRE Paul O’Grady said Navy should be proud of its people and their role in this important operation.

“They are fulfilling key positions throughout the task force headquarters and making significant contributions to the national effort fighting COVID-19,” CDRE O’Grady said.

Maritime Personnel Operator SMN Jess Gould is working in the headquarters personnel office, undertaking the processing

Committed to the cause

of incidentals, mounting and demounting forms and health declarations.

“I joined the Navy for a challenge and since working here it has shown me how different it is working in a triservice environment,” SMN Gould said.

“I feel I’m contributing towards the greater good and strongly feel that what I do here has an impact on how the joint task groups on the ground do their work, which directly affects the public - it’s a great feeling.”

LEUT Casey Green is an operational planner and was involved in the ADF’s joint response to assist Tasmanian Health.

“It is good to see how other services do things differently. I feel like I have learnt a lot from this operation,” LEUT Green said.

“In this role I focus on planning tasks that appear in the next two to seven days.

“Helping the medical team travel to and operate from the North West Regional Hospital in Burnie was a real highlight.”

Navy’s commitment to helping the community during the COVID-19 pandemic is continuing and is an example of the service’s ability to work effectively in a joint team.

Imagery is available at: images.defence.gov.au/S20201724

– SMN Jess Gould

I joined the Navy for a challenge and since working here, it has shown me how different it is working in a triservice environment.

“

AB Greg Hallet, left, and PO Jasmine Marsland unload luggage at the Sofitel Wentworth Hotel Sydney for international arrivals returning to Australia before being quarantined.Photo: POIS Justin Brown

LEUT Casey Green is part of the Navy contingent at the JTF 629 Headquarters element in Sydney, Australia.

June 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 5COVID-19 pandemic

LEUT Nick Hawkins

Navy personnel have been working alongside their Army colleagues contributing to the whole-of-government response to the COVID-19 pandemic across country Queensland - in some cases hundreds of kilometres from the ocean.

While the majority of Navy personnel have been providing quarantine assistance to State authorities at the Brisbane and Cairns airports, and hotels in Cairns, the Gold Coast, and Brisbane; a number of sailors have been supporting the Queensland Police Service (QPS) at control points for border control operations around the state.

Reservist AB Kirsty Waters

celebrated a milestone during her time supporting the QPS border control operations at Killarney on the Queensland and New South Wales border.

“This deployment will be one to remember as I turned 30 out here and the Army boys bought me cupcakes, while my partner organised some balloons to be sent down,” AB Waters said.

“Even the local café brought some morning tea and their puppy down to the checkpoint.”

CPO Steven McClintock is very thankful for the opportunity to work with Army in support of the QPS, stepping into a leadership role with the Warwick-based TE3, coordinating personnel and logistics for a number

of police check points.“I’m really enjoying working with

Army to ensure the smooth running of our area of operations - it is very cold at the police check points, so it is important for morale to ensure we do what we can to keep the members well fed and warm,” CPO McClintock said.

ADF personnel have been on the ground supporting the QPS since early April, and for the past few weeks Navy personnel have been working side by side with Army in various roles.

POCSS Grant Ireland was deployed to the Goondiwindi Police check point and explained how different, yet interesting, this role had been from previous Navy tasks.

He said he planned to visit the region again when restrictions eased.

“It has been a privilege to be a part of and witness how well Navy personnel are working with Army during this Operation,” PO Grant said.

“For me, it is so different to be working away from a ship at sea or port.

“I felt appreciated by the locals, QPS and Army, and believe what I have been doing really matters.

“I have great respect for country Queensland - I’ve even been talking to some of my mates about doing a two-week road trip, visiting a bunch of outback Queensland towns when things ease, maybe around a rugby league match.”

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Reservist LS Alan Williams assists Queensland Police Service at a police check point on the border of New South Wales and Queensland at Amosfield for Operation COVID-19 Assist. Photo: TPR Jonathan Goedhart

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NewsJune 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 7

LEUT Gary McHugh

GARDEN Island, Western Australia, is not only home to Navy’s largest base, HMAS Stirling, but also to a variety of unique fauna and flora.

However, visitors to Garden Island may recently have come across a variety of tree that stands out from the rest, mainly because of its bright blue paint.

Stirling Adventure Training Facilitator CPOMT Glenn Askew said the addition to the island’s flora collection was part of an Australia-wide mental health initiative called the Blue Tree Project.

“I saw my first ever blue tree some time ago on a large country property,” CPO Askew said.

“After that I saw a couple more on various golf courses and decided to investigate the reason behind them.

“Since I realised they were part of a mental health project I can’t pass a blue tree without thinking about the importance of asking people ‘Are you okay?’.”

CPO Askew decided to approach Stirling’s XO CMDR Guy Lewis about the possibility of establishing a blue tree on Garden Island.

“The XO was very positive about the idea, so I got the ball roll-ing by finding an appropriate tree to work with,” he said.

Being an A-Class Nature Reserve, introduced flora and fauna species are prohibited on Garden Island, so CPO Askew searched for

Blue trees giving hope

– CPOMT Glenn Askew

By having a tangible reminder such as this, I hope that mental health will remain at the forefront of people’s minds.

“

a suitable tree already on the island.“I was lucky to find a nine-

metre downed tree just north of the Armaments Wharf, and after obtaining the necessary permissions, CMDR Andrew Nelson, from Fleet Logistics Support Element, and I, who are both chainsaw-qualified, set about preparing the tree,” he said.

After selecting and preparing a prominent site at the southern end of Garden Island, the tree was painted, a soak-well was buried and the latest addition to the Blue Tree Project was installed.

CO Stirling CAPT Ainsley Morthorpe congratulated CPO Askew on the successful completion of the project.

“Mental health is obviously an

extremely important issue, not only for Navy but for all Australians,” CAPT Morthorpe said.

“By having a tangible reminder such as this, I hope that mental health will remain at the forefront of people’s minds, and I thank CPO Askew and CMDR Nelson for their commitment to this cause.”

The Blue Tree Project began in the Western Australian country town of Mukinbudin and has rapidly spread across Australia with the latest count indicating more than 400 trees across the country.

Imagery available at: images.navy.gov.au/S20201812.

SMNBM Alisha Matthew of Fleet Support Unit - West, paints a tree blue at HMAS Stirling. Photo: LSIS Ronnie Baltoft

CPOMT Glenn Askew assists in positioning a blue tree as part of an Australia-wide mental health initiative on Garden Island, Western Australia. Photo: LSIS Ernesto Sanchez

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8 News June 11, 2020

Recognising excellenceMIDN Maire Starkey

FAMED for his stunning victory over the combined Spanish and French Fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, ADML Horatio Nelson’s legacy remains strongly connected to today’s Navy.

Naval historian LCDR Desmond Woods noted in his speech ‘Humanity after victory’, that Nelson’s victories at sea “secured Britain’s predominance in the world and Australia’s future as a self-governing member of a largely peaceful empire”.

In homage to ADML Nelson, the Nelson Society of Australia instituted the ‘Lord Nelson Sword of Excellence’ in 2006 to encourage qualities of leadership excellence in the Navy.

The sword was first awarded to CDRE Justin Jones acknowledging his leadership while serving as XO HMAS Parramatta from 2005-2006.

“It was and remains a humbling experience, and has since given me a small platform on which to teach and mentor,” CDRE Jones said.

The sword has since been awarded annually to an officer who demonstrates outstanding leadership in a seagoing posting.

Nelson’s fleet of commanding officers, his famous ‘band of brothers’ were bonded into a winning fighting force through coordinated action, empowered common purpose and a strong national culture.

Fast forward 215 years and these tenets feature in the underpinning principles of ‘Next Generation Navy’.

Deputy Director Next Generation Navy CMDR Tina Brown said the Next Generation Navy’s culture pillar of ‘Develop leaders who value their teams’ was supported by the recognition of our people’s achievements through awards such as the Lord Nelson Sword of Excellence.

“While the award recognises leadership excellence, it also inspires all officers to enhance our fighting force through mentoring, investment and empowerment,” CMDR Brown said.

Reflecting on Nelson’s famous signal ‘England expects every man will do his duty’, 2009 recipient CMDR Kerry

Rohrsheim, believes the best outcomes are obtained by creating an environment where the team feels empowered to contribute to successful outcomes.

“Our people require guidance and encouragement, not micro-management,” CMDR Rohrsheim said.

While Nelson’s sentiment has been contemporised, his personal example of courage, inclusivity and trust of subordinates are traditions of his leadership that guide the values and culture of naval oficers to this day.

Nominations for the 2020 award of the ADM Nelson Sword of Excellence are from June 1-28.

Lord Nelson Sword of Excellence 2019 recipient LCDR Adrian Eddy.

Lord Nelson Sword of Excellence 2018 recipient, LCDR Calvin Timms, with CN VADM Mike Noonan.

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NewsJune 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 9

LSIS Kylie Jagiello

DESIRING a career where he was part of something global, SBLT Liam Whitfeld joined the Navy aged 19 in 2016.

Fast forward three years and after his outstanding performance during Maritime Warfare Officer course 03, he received the 2019 Queen’s Gold Medal early this year.

“I found out about the award two hours before the signal was released. It came as a total sur-prise,” SBLT Whitfeld said.

“I had no idea I had been nominated let alone selected as the recipient.

“I was proud but at the same time I was pretty keen to keep my reaction and responses low key.”

The Queen’s Gold Medal is one of the oldest and most prestigious awards in the RAN, first presented in 1916.

It is awarded each year to the officer who exhibits the most exem-plary conduct, performance of duty and level of achievement while undergoing officer initial and appli-

cation training.CN VADM Mike Noonan said

SBLT Whitfeld’s drive and enthu-siasm was evident throughout training and his outstanding perfor-mance was recognised.

“His professionalism and con-duct on course was exemplary,” VADM Noonan said.

“I commend him for attaining his Bridge Warfare Certificate and posting to sea for consolidation more than seven weeks ahead of his cohort.”

Growing up with family and friends who served in Navy, SBLT Whitfeld was provided with many nautical brochures and books.

“My grandfather served in the RAAF, which brought into light the whole notion of life in the defence force,” SBLT Whitfeld said.

“My mum was a nurse and as such I grew up with the desire to help others.

“I thought a career in the Navy was something that would help me achieve both.”

SBLT Whilfeld has spent a large portion of his career at sea,

including postings to HMA Ships Parramatta, Gascoyne, Diamantina and currently HMAS Hobart.

“During the last four years I have been lucky for the career I’ve had to date,” he said.

SBLT Whitfeld said one of his favourite parts of the Navy was the people.

“I’ve been fortunate to have met some truly incredible people throughout my postings, both with-in Australia and overseas,” he said.

“People who have regaled me with their stories or imparted words of wisdom over the years truly helped shape my training and career.”

He was involved in a memorial for the 77th anniversary of the loss of HMAS Perth I, spreading ashes of the last survivor David Manning and giving an Australian White Ensign to his daughter.

“The stories she provided about her father and his career I found to be incredibly inspiring.”

SBLT Whitfeld will receive a specially minted gold medallion from Buckingham Palace.

HISTORY OF THE QUEEN’S GOLD MEDAL

THE King’s Gold Medal to Australian naval cadets was instituted at the Royal Australian Naval College, Jervis Bay, as an incentive to young naval officers.

The medal was awarded annually to the cadet midshipman who, in the opinion of the captain of the college, was most deserving of the honour and displayed “gentlemanly bearing, character, good influence among his fellows and officer-like qualities”.

The first to receive the honour was Winn Lockyer Reilly in 1916.

Each recipient of the award had their name enrolled on a board at the Jervis Bay gym. Later, when the college relocated to Flinders Naval Depot, it was displayed in the cadet’s Gunroom.

As a mark of prestige the letters KM appeared following a recipients name in the Navy List.

Produced by the UK’s Royal Mint, the medal depicted the effigy of King George V surrounded by a legend in Latin.

The medal a lso depic ted a backdrop of a sprig of wattle and oak leaves with the central shield of the Australian coat of arms.

After the death of King George V in 1936 the medal was altered to reflect the bust and legend of King George VI.

Following the ascension of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne in 1952 the award was retitled the Queen’s Medal, with her effigy added.

Provisions of the award changed and today the medal is presented to the officer who has exhibited “exemplary conduct, performance of duty and a high level of achievement” during initial training and application courses.

Exemplary conduct

Queen’s Gold Medal 2019 recipient SBLT Liam Whitfeld at HMAS Kuttabul. Photo: ABIS Thomas Sawtell

HMAS Albatross personnel usually host and participate in community events throughout the Shoalhaven during National Reconciliation Week but distancing requirements forced them to reconsider how to embrace the 2020 theme, In This Together, while physically staying apart.

Albatross Community Engagement Officer CPOCSM Linda Eddington said this year was the 20th anniversary of the Reconciliation Walks of 2000, “when people came together to walk on bridges and roads across the nation and show their support for a more reconciled Australia”.

“So we looked for ways we could abide by the restrictions but still build

bridges and connections with the wider community,” CPO Eddington said.

“In the end, we didn’t need to look far. Just down the road from HMAS Albatross is Boori Preschool, which caters for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

“So, we decided to have a book drive for Boori and asked personnel to bring in books suitable for three- to six-year-olds,” she said.

Boori encourages children to deepen their connection with their culture and strengthen their sense of belonging.

The target was to collect at least one book for each of the preschool’s 28 children and CPO Eddington said her office became “a bit of a library”

as people dropped off their book donations.

“We received classics and ever popular titles such as Dr Seuss and Hairy Maclary, but we also received some amazing books from contemporary Indigenous authors and illustrators,” she said.

“Personnel loved reconnecting with some of their childhood favourites but they also really enjoyed discovering authors they’d never encountered, such as Ambelin Kwaymullina.

“Her book, The Lost Girl, is such a beautiful book and she’s dedicated it to all the Aboriginal girls, stating ‘may you walk tall, stay strong and always be able to find your way home’.”

CPO Eddington said her own favourite books were Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy, “which has some absolutely stunning illustrations by Lisa Kennedy”, and Tell ’Em, written by Katrina Germein and Rosemary Sullivan with the children of Manyallaluk School.

Manyallaluk is in Eva Valley in the Northern Territory and describes itself as “a small school with a big heart”.

“So, while Albatross wanted to connect with the children at Boori, we also hope the students find connections through the books with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and the wider world,” CPO Eddington said.

A pandemic might have kept us at a physical distance but Navy people embraced the challenge of finding different ways to create connections with our Indigenous community.

June 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews 10

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

New chapter in the story of connecting

Touching tribute to a shared journey

From left, HMAS Albatross Command WO Gary Fuss, CPOCSM Linda Eddington, POMLSO Megan Cahill, Dallas McMaugh and LSCIS Kara Knezevic with books donated for the Boori Preschool.Photo: CPOIS Cameron Martin

CN VADM Mike Noonan leaves his mark on the canvas at Russell Offices. Photo: Kym Smith

LEUT Anthony Martin

AS AN instructor in the Navy Indigenous Development Program, from which he graduated 10 years ago, LSBM Kyh Mye has come full circle.

The program, run by RAN Recruit School instructors in Cairns, helps Indigenous Australians to reach the required standard to permanently enlist in the ADF.

LS Mye joined the Navy through the program in 2010 and is now enjoy-ing his role as an instructor after post-ings to HMA Ships Tobruk, Newcastle and Adelaide.

“It’s great to be in a position to give back to the program,” he said.

As he pursues a career as an officer, LS Mye wants to bring his

experience of the program to a bigger audience and to promote Indigenous culture in the Navy and the wider community.

“I am looking forward to influ-encing the current generation of Indigenous sailors and working as a mentor to guide them through their respective careers,” he said.

Fellow program instructor LSCSO Breanna Jacobs-Rochford is keen to hone her skills.

“I joined the instructional team earlier this year and I have already learnt so much more about Indigenous culture and my own heritage,” LS Jacobs-Rochford said.

“I am especially proud to work with and support the Indigenous women joining the program.”

One of the newest members of

the instructing team is LSATA Jerry Dibella, who said he enjoyed working with the Indigenous community.

“This is a great job with plenty of rewards and I have learnt so much in a short time,” LS Dibella said.

The program prepares participants for life in the Navy by developing cultural awareness, physical fitness, military knowledge, personal values and reflective behaviours and provides nationally recognised training.

At the end of the training, partici-pants have the option of continuing with an ADF career or returning to civilian life and their communities with new workplace skills.

A key aspect of the training is vis-iting Navy establishments and ships.

SGT Sebastian Beurich

CN VADM Mike Noonan was among the Defence staff in Canberra who took the National Reconciliation Week message to the next level, add-ing fingerprints to a communal canvas at Russell Offices.

The concept was devel-oped by the Directorate of Indigenous Affairs, with the directorate’s Kate Weber com-pleting the background artwork.

D e f e n c e I n d i g e n o u s C h a m p i o n a n d D e p u t y S e c r e t a r y E s t a t e a n d I n f r a s t r u c t u r e S t e v e Grzeskowiak said the activity encapsulated this year’s theme ‘In this together’, in a COVID-19 affected world.

“This artwork symbolises the shared and personal jour-ney of reconciliation that we are all on,” Mr Grzeskowiak said.

“Its four pathways represent the three services and the APS and our fingerprints will reflect all of us coming together on the journey together.

“I’m immensely proud to be involved in this activity and humbled to see how many dif-ferent approaches are being taken to celebrate National Reconciliation Week.”

The activity started with CDF Gen Angus Campbell and Secretary Greg Moriarty plac-ing a finger print on the canvas, followed by other senior lead-ers and staff.

This year’s theme, “In This Together”, is “resonating in a way that couldn’t have been foreseen”, Mr Grzeskowiak said.

“It’s a reminder that whether in a crisis or in reconciliation, we’re in this together.”

When completed, the can-vas will be hung in the CDF and Secretary’s office area.

A pandemic might have kept us at a physical distance but Navy people embraced the challenge of finding different ways to create connections with our Indigenous community.

June 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews

11National Reconciliation Week

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

Instructor happy to be back where he started

Touching tribute to a shared journey

CN VADM Mike Noonan leaves his mark on the canvas at Russell Offices. Photo: Kym Smith

LSBM Kyh Mye has come full circle, from participating to instructing, in the Navy Indigenous Development Program. Photo: LEUT Dave Devlin

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RECRUITMENT into the ADF con-tinues with Defence Force Recruiting introducing virtual processes and initial meetings with candidates online.

Virtual YOU Sessions are providing candidates insight into the roles most suited to them, based on their skills and interests.

YOU Sessions (Your Opportunities Unlimited), traditionally the first step in recruitment, include an aptitude test, interview with a careers coach and a check of documents these are now delivered online and by phone.

Deputy Director Recruiting Delivery LTCOL James Matchett said this made the recruitment process more accessible.

More than 7500 Australians have completed online aptitude testing ses-sions since DFR transitioned to the pro-cess in mid-April.

“Some applicants use to travel nine hours or more from remote parts of the country to get into a DFR centre and would have to do it all again for their assessment day,” LTCOL Matchett said.

“Now they can take that initial step online to find out what roles are avail-able to them.”

After a successful YOU Session, applicants progress to assessment day – including a psychological interview, medical examination and Defence inter-view.

Candidates attend the medical and psychological assessments in person, though their interview is now conducted by phone.

“We’re minimising contact where we can to observe appropriate social distancing measures,” LTCOL Matchett said.

“Once restrictions are lifted, the in-person interviews will resume so candidates can connect more and build a rapport with their interviewers.”

The move to online recruitment avenues was scheduled for later this year but was brought forward because of COVID19.

“We are also conducting information sessions online, where applicants can ask ADF members about career paths and ADF life,” LTCOL Matchett said.

For more information, phone: 13 19 01 or visit: defencejobs.gov.au/joining/how-to-join/recruit-ment-process

Putting the call out for recruits

Members of GE375 Rogers Division participate in their Unit Readiness Evaluation held at HMAS Cerberus, Victoria. Photo: ABIS Bonny Gassner

Sons follow in footstepsLEUT Dave Devlin

THE Navy Recruit Training School recently farewelled 137 graduates from General Entry Intake 380 Shipp Division, after 11 weeks of initial entry training, at HMAS Cerberus in Victoria.

Recruit School provides future sail-ors with the foundation skills they will need to shape their Navy careers.

Shipp Division was named in honour of LSA Noel Ervin Shipp, who served in Vietnam with the Second Contingent of the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight in September 1968 and died while engaging the enemy under heavy fire.

The graduating class of 101 men and 36 women will now begin their category training either at Cerberus or at one of the many Defence training facilities throughout Australia.

CO Recruit Training School CMDR Cindy Jenkins said there were many challenges the graduating class faced as a result of COVID-19.

“The Recruit School has been able to maintain its responsibility in preparing and developing the future force for the Navy,” CMDR Jenkins said.

“We have had to adjust how some of the training was delivered, particularly surrounding physical distancing, noting we have over 400 recruits spread across three intake divisions.

“Most importantly, we have been

able to deliver each of the required training outcomes and deliver them safely.

“I am very proud of the staff and the recruits in particular for the way they have adjusted to the changing environment and in getting the job done.”

For one graduate, SMN* George Oram, from Adelaide, the occasion was made very special with his older brother, SMN* Jack Oram attending the parade.

Jack graduated from Recruit School in December 2019 and has been undertaking his category training at Cerberus.

“It’s a very proud moment for me to watch George graduate today and also a very proud moment for our family,” SMN* Jack Oram said.

“The COVID-19 restrictions have prevented families from travelling and attending graduations, so I feel very fortunate that I can attend and support my brother today.”

SMN* George Oram said joining the Navy was not about following his brother’s footsteps, but their father’s.

“Dad served in the British Army as part of the Intelligence Corps and served with the British Special Forces,” SMN* George Oram said.

“He has always been a big role model to us both.

“His many stories of service and the friendships he made is what drove me to consider joining.”

“He would be immensely proud

today, not just of my graduation, but to have two sons in uniform, serving and representing the country and starting their military careers, similar to what he did many years ago.”

The brothers’ period of serving

together will be short-lived for the time being as SMN* George Oram, will complete his avionics category training at Wagga.

His brother, SMN* Jack Oram, will continue his electronics training

at Cerberus, before posting to Western Australia to become a submariner.

Imagery is available at: images.defence.gov.au/S20201809.

SMN* George Oram and brother SMN* Jack Oram

at HMAS Cerberus Recruit School.

Photo: ABIS Bonny Gassner

13TrainingJune 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews

LEUT Jessica Craig

LIKE many things this year, the ADF Imagery Specialist Initial Employment Training program looked a little different.

Just over half way through their course, the six trainees from Navy and Army are learning how to find opportunities to capture great images, despite the changes of the world around them.

Full-time training would usually be more hands on, however, because of COVID-19 restrictions, fleet activities that trainees would normally practise photographing were put on hold.

Course instructor POIS Andrew Dakin said it has been an interesting challenge to ensure the trainees get the same opportunities and experience as others who have gone through the program.

“We have separated classrooms and minimised the learning environment footprint to ensure training adheres to physical distancing rules,” PO Daikin said.

“I have noticed a high spirit and positive response from students in light of restrictions and interruptions.

“They are all proactive and work hard at learning and building their skills, and taking in every opportunity we can safely find for them to innovate and adapt their imagery to these unique times.”

As imagery specialists play an important role within Defence’s capability framework, it has been important for PO Daikin and his team to ensure the program continues to run and evolve.

“Our imagery specialists bring a niche skillset to the Australian

Government, the ADF and its military commanders by capturing and processing visual information for dissemination,” PO Daikin said.

“The quality of training has improved over the years and has shifted from Navy-centric to ADF enterprise training, honing the skills of all imagery specialists.”

PO Dakin said there was a certain level of satisfaction in being involved in training the next generation of imagery specialists.

“It’s a rewarding experience seeing students graduate and contribute to the professional image of the ADF,” PO Daikin said.

“It’s satisfying to observe esprit de corps among students, regardless of the uniforms they wear, with them having spent the past five-and-a-half-months training together.”

Imagery specialist trainee ABBM Daniel Goodman said after two years of preparing to transfer category, becoming an imagery specialist is something he won’t take for granted.

“Knowing I will be part of capturing spectacular images for the ADF is a great feeling,” AB Goodman said.

“It has been rewarding and challenging to hone these new skills with everything going on.

“Our team had the privilege of capturing some really exciting things such as NUSHIP Sydney sailing into Sydney Harbour for the first time.”

Transferring to the imagery specialist category can be highly competitive, but PO Daikin encourages any ADF member to consider the benefits of the career and weigh up their own motivations and abilities.

Taking the shot

ABBM Daniel Goodman captures images at sunrise while conducting imagery specialist initial employment training at Fleet Base East, Sydney. Photo: AB Sittichai Sakonpoonpol

ADF imagery specialist students conduct their initial employment training at Fleet Base East, Sydney. Photo: PTE Olivia Cameron

14 Training June 11, 2020

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16 Features June 11, 2020

The night war hit homeThe sinking of HMAS Kuttabul in 1942 was remembered 78 years on, writes LEUT Anthony Martin.

CAPT Matthew Shand looks on as ABBM Jessica

Whelan speaks at the HMAS Kuttabul Memorial ceremony on Garden Island in Sydney.Photos: LSIS Leo Baumgartner

LSMUSN Cameron McAllister

sounds The Last Post

during the memorial

service.Photo: LSIS Leo

Baumgartner

ALONG the northern sea wall of Garden Island in Sydney, a small and solemn ceremony was conducted on

June 1 to remember those lost during the sinking of HMAS Kuttabul I in the early hours of June 1, 1942.

CO HMAS Kuttabul CAPT Matthew Shand led the event to pay tribute to the 27 sailors from Australia, Great Britain and Japan who lost their lives that night.

“Many memorial events com-memorate Australia’s military service in distant lands, but the Kuttabul Memorial is significant as it acknowl-

edges the night that war came to Australia’s east coast 78 years ago,” CAPT Shand said.

On the night of the May 31, 1942 three Japanese midget submarines were sent to attack targets in Sydney Harbour.

One of the midget submarines - the M24 - was in position off Bradleys Head and fired a torpedo aimed at the Cruiser USS Chicago, which was secured at the Man of War buoy near Garden Island.

The torpedo went directly under-neath the Chicago and hit the sea wall at Garden Island, sinking the

Depot Ship Kuttabul I. Sailors from Australia, New Zealand, Holland and Great Britain were on board Kuttabul at the time.

Nineteen Australian and two British sailors lost their lives when Kuttabul was sunk.

The three midget submarines did not escape Sydney and six Japanese sailors were also lost.

During the commemorative service at the memorial at Garden Island, staff from Kuttabul read the roll of honour of the 27 personnel from all nations that perished that night in 1942.

Fleet Commander RADM Jonathan

Mead joined the Consul General of Japan, Mr Kiya Masahiko, to lay a wreath honouring the fallen.

They were followed with wreath-laying by the Consul General of New Zealand, Bill Dobbie, and the Consul General of the United States, Sharon Hudson-Dean.

CAPT Shand and CWO Mark Cooper laid wreaths on behalf of the officers and ship’s company of Kuttabul.

RADM Mead said he was proud to be able to commemorate the event dur-ing the current period of social distancing.

He noted there were parallels between those dark days in Sydney in 1942 and today when Australians drew strength from the experience and strived to overcome the difficulties encountered.

“In times of crisis, all Australians come together as one to step up and deal with the challenges they face,” RADM Mead said.

“It’s important to note that Australia and Japan honour the brave sailors from each nation and recognise the reconciliation and partnership we share today.”

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Passion for the craftLEUT Ryan Zerbe

ONE thousand hours, 41.6 days or 60,000 minutes; however you add it up, that’s a lot of time in warfight-ing aircraft.

Maritime Aviation Warfare Officer LCDR Damian Liberale recently celebrated this impres-sive feat by achieving 1000 hours of flying time in Sikorsky Seahawk while deployed in HMAS Parramatta.

LCDR Liberale, of 816 SQN’s Flight 4, racked up his 1000th hour during a night-time sortie in Parramatta’s embarked helicopter - dubbed ‘Medusa’.

He returned to Parramatta to an honour guard and the applause of his shipmates.

While it took seven years for LCDR Liberale to achieve 1000 hours flying Sikorsky S70-B-2s and their successor, the MH-60R, his relationship with them goes much further back.

“I was a Seahawk maintainer for 15 years before I was an avia-tion warfare officer, so I have had a close relationship with S70B-2s and MH-60Rs,” LCDR Liberale said.

His time as a naval aviator has provided the opportunity to fly counter-narcotic operations in the Middle East and United Nations operations in north Asia and he has many fond memories of his time in the air.

“A favourite memory would be conducting the first joint Australia-

United States MH-60R live hellfire missile firing during Exercise Pacific Vanguard in May last year,” LCDR Liberale said.

“It was great confirmation that the training pilots, aircrew and maintenance team had undergone was sufficient to get a missile on target and doing that with a coali-tion partner felt like a real collec-tive accomplishment.”

While some elements of flying have changed, LCDR Liberale still feels the excitement of being in the air.

“Things like regulation and governance have continuously evolved and personnel involved in maritime aviation must review and remain abreast of these contempo-rary requirements, but the thrill and enjoyment of flying remains the same,” LCDR Liberale said.

“I’ve loved the opportunity to fly over locations like Ashmore Reef, the Great Barrier Reef, Djibouti and other remote locations most people never get the opportu-nity to see from the airborne per-spective. It’s a great privilege.”

Maritime aviation warfare officers like LCDR Liberale act as mission commanders for Navy helicopters, managing weapon and sensor systems and directing opera-tions from the air.

Navy has 24 MH-60Rs assigned to 816 and 725 SQNs at Nowra, providing submarine hunting, anti-surface warfare and search-and-rescue capabilities.

Flight Commander LCDR Damien Liberale with the Collins Trophy on board HMAS Parramatta alongside Fleet Base East. Photo: LSIS Leo Baumgartner

– LCDR Damian Liberale

I’ve loved the opportunity to fly over locations like Ashmore Reef, the Great Barrier Reef, Djibouti and other remote locations.

“

17PersonnelJune 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews

18 Sport June 11, 2020

Push for mental health

LSIS Kylie Jagiello

UNTIL LSEW Vanessa Broughill started training for the Invictus Games she struggled with life’s basic things.

“Filling up the car at the petrol station got to be too much,” LS Broughill said.

“I would run it so close to empty and then tell my husband I hadn’t had an opportunity to fill it up.

“I would avoid grocery shopping like the plague.”

A series of small steps in the Invictus process made change possible.

“Firstly I had to rock up to the selection camp,” LS Broughill said.

“The doubt started to set in. ‘What am I thinking’, ‘I’m not good enough’, ‘I’m going to embarrass myself’.

“But then the military side of me came out and I told myself I have to go.”

The postponement of the Games brought on mixed emotions for LS Broughill.

“You knew something was going to change with the Games this year,” she said.

“Whether they would still hold them without spectators, postpone or cancel completely and go to the 2022 games in Germany.

“It was disappointing but there was

relief as well to know what the plan moving forward was.”

With an extra 12 months of training under everyone’s belt, LS Broughill believes it will set the stage for a high-er quality competition.

With current restrictions, LS Broughill kept training with the help of University of South Australia’s Invictus Pathway Program.

“We work with exercise physiology and exercise science students during their degree as part of their clinical hours,” she said.

“We are doing online sessions using Zoom twice a week. Going through activities like a one-on-one session at the gym, except you’re at home.

“My trainer worked my program around what I had available.”

LS Broughill first competed in the Invictus Games in 2018, and with each athlete only eligible to participate in two, the next Games will be her last.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my 2018 journey and felt it was about getting me out of the house and back into a physical training routine,” she said.

“Getting my mindset back into the ‘I can’ rather than the ‘I can’t’ thinking.

“Applying for the next games, I could focus on my performance and being the best I can in each of my events.”

LS Broughill still recalls her previous Games fondly.

“It was just after the 100m sprint heat. Myself and an athlete from the UK team helped a limping Dutch competitor from the track,” LS Broughill said.

“She had rolled her ankle during the race and could barely walk.

“There was a photo taken of us from behind and you can clearly see the two of us helping her.

“To me it shows the spirit of the games. We don’t have to know each other or each other’s stories. As mili-tary personnel we are all connected by an unspoken bond.”

LS Broughill was later presented a silver medal for discus by David Beckham.

After first starting in the camps, LS Broughill would only tell people about her shoulder injury, not her mental health issue.

“I would think I was the only one going through it and would try and hide it,” she said.

“Coming back for a second time, it is important for me to make sure the new athletes know that they are not alone.

“There is nothing to be ashamed of with mental health problems and we all go through it.”

Invictus Games gives athlete a purpose

ADF personnel participate in the Push-Up Challenge at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane. Photo: CPL Colin Dadd

Tina Turner

COVID-19 restrictions didn’t stop ADF personnel from bases across south-east Queensland taking part in the Push-Up Challenge to raise awareness about mental health during May.

Members from HMAS Moreton, Gallipoli Barracks and RAAF Base Amberley participated in the challenge completing 3046 push-ups. CAPT Luke Le Grand and CPL Lucy Lockhart organised the triservice activity at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane.

“The Push-Up Challenge is a

mental health charity raising money on behalf of the Australian Government-funded Headspace network,” CPL Lockhart said.

“Doing this challenge not only increased my fitness, it also motivated me and my colleagues to speak openly about mental health and check in with our mates.”

CAPT Le Grand oversaw the planning and conduct of the activity.

He said the ADF was recognised as a leader in promoting health among its people, aiming to achieve the highest levels of physical strength, endurance, mental health and resilience.

“The Push-Up Challenge was a

natural fit for us but we had to ensure it complied with social distancing guidelines,” CAPT Le Grand said.

Nine personnel – three from each service – conducted push-ups in allocated positions at a distance of no less than 1.5 metres apart.

LEUT Anthea Baczkowski, of Moreton, said she heard about the challenge and thought it was a great activity to be part of.

“Mental health is linked to physical health and this activity gets everyone outdoors doing something physical,” LEUT Baczkowski said.

“In these times, it’s good to be part of a team and have a sense of

belonging, which is an important part of mental health.”

Air Force members from RAAF Amberley in Ipswich travelled to Brisbane to be involved.

FSGT Michael Godfrey, of HQ96WING, organised Air Force’s team.

“I put the feelers out and my fellow Air Force colleagues came forward to help out,” FSGT Godfrey said.

“It was rewarding to see everyone come together to be involved.

“I wanted to take part in the Push-Up Challenge to show my support and break-down the stigma that surrounds mental health.”

The Push-Up Challenge aims to reduce the number of Australian lives lost to suicide by increasing awareness of mental health in the community.

The 3046 push-ups completed in the challenge represent the number of lives lost in Australia to suicide in 2018.

Defence has long recognised the mental health and wellbeing of its workforce is critical to overall capability.

The ADF health and wellbeing portal has information on ADF physical and mental health.

Invictus Games team member LS Vanessa Broughill competes in the shot put as part of the north Queensland Athletics Championships in Townsville. Photo: Jayson Tufrey

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19SportJune 11, 2020 defence.gov.au/news/navynews

CPL Julia Whitwell

IT WAS love at first fire when SBLT Paul Adams’ grandfather taught him how to shoot, at the age of 10, on their family property in Kilcoy, Queensland.

That set the nursing officer on a path to the Olympic Games.

“At first I didn’t really think I wanted to. But then I took one shot and thought, ‘Yeah, this is for me,’ ” SBLT Adams said.

He took up the sport, competing in the Australian shooting team at 18, following his love of travelling and shooting in more than 30 countries.

SBLT Adams competed in skeet shooting events at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, 2016 Rio Olympic Games, 2018 Shooting World Cup and 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

“It’s amazing to be around other professional athletes,” he said.

“It’s crazy to think I’m in that league. I’m just a guy who shoots a gun. I feel really lucky to represent Australia.”

SBLT Adams said shooting was all about head space.

“When you’re driving a car down the highway, not really thinking about it, and then 10 minutes just passes by – that’s the head space I try get into,” he said.

“It’s in that mindset that you won’t miss a shot. You’re not overthinking it and you’re not underthinking it.”

Getting into that head space is harder than it sounds.

At the 2018 Commonwealth Games SBLT Adams finished seventh and missed the finals just two weeks after winning silver in the World Cup.

“I was a bit annoyed and disheart-ened,” he said.

“I didn’t really expect to make the finals but I had hope and some con-fidence and I let that overshadow my focus.”

As he completes his Reserve Entry Officer Course, SBLT Adams is await-ing the 2021 Olympic Games, for which he qualified before they were deferred from this year.

“Last time my first goal was to not to come last and my second goal was to win,” he said.

“For 2021 I guess I just have to make my first goal to win.”

This time winning’s the target

SBLT Paul Adams at work as a reservist and, inset, with his ‘ticket’ to Tokyo.

Volume 63, No. 10, June 11, 2020

SPORT

PUSHING FOR CHANGE

Push-up challenge raises awareness of mental health

Page 18

Dental Officer LEUT Anthea

Baczkowski, from HMAS Moreton, participates in The Push-Up Challenge at

Gallipoli Barracks.Photo: CPL Colin Dadd