HMAS Hobart tests weapons en route to namesake city … · CPL Julia Whitwell PTE Renee Breeze ......

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NEWSNAVYVolume 61, No. 2, February 22, 2018

TRIALS ON TARGET

HMAS Hobart tests weapons

en route to namesake city

Centre

ABET Paul Brook readies HMAS Hobart’s close-In weapons system ahead of live firing for the first time.Photo: ABIS Craig Walton

2 NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018

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EDITORIALDirectorDavid Edlington

EditorRichard Mihaich: (02) 6265 7219

ReportersSGT Mark DoranSGT Max Bree SGT Dave MorleyCPL Bill SolomouCPL Sebastian BeurichCPL Julia WhitwellPTE Renee BreezeSarah Collins

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NAVY NEWS

CPOB Tony Martin

TIER Bravo WOs who occupy the role of SWO will now be recog-nised as Command Warrant Officer (CWO).

WO Karen Sellars, the CWO at HMAS Harman, said the change was a positive recognition of the important role the CWO plays in supporting Command.

“The CWO provides valuable skills and experience to the whole Command team,” WO Sellars said.

“The Tier Bravo CWO is respon-sible to the CO to assist in the imple-mentation of Command orders, intent and promotion of NGN and Plan Pelorus.

“As a CWO, I am an advocate of the divisional system and play an important role as an adviser and mentor to all divisional staff.

“These responsibilities are the key link between officers and sailors and provide a vital contribution in the Navy’s ability to fight and win at sea.”

The change to CWO aligns the operational and strategic functions performed by the Tier Bravo WO

with that of the strategically focused Tier Charlie WO. Action has now been completed to amend duty statements and job titles have been changed.

The RAN Uniform Instructions have been amended to acknowledge the vital role of the Tier Bravo WO. All Tier Bravo WOs will now wear the new bronze CWO badge.

CWO HMAS Harman WO Karen Sellars proudly wears the new Bronze CWO badge. Photo: CPOB Tony Martin

CPL Sebastian Beurich

THE Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) has recognised the work of the Navy Indigenous Development Program (NIDP) at its annual awards.

The NIDP was a finalist in the Stan Grant Indigenous Employment Award, while the Navy Diversity and Inclusion Council (NDIC) was a finalist for the institute’s Inclusive Workplace Award.

OIC NIDP LCDR James Carroll said the NIDP offered a way for Indigenous Australians to become role models for their communities.

“The NIDP offers a sustain-able employment entry pathway for

young people who have previously struggled to secure lasting employ-ment,” he said.

“In the past four years, more than 100 young men and women have transitioned from civilian life to Navy careers via the NIDP.

“These young men and women are highly trained, and work across the Navy to ensure it remains trusted to defend Australia.”

The AHRI Awards are Australia’s most prestigious human resources awards, designed to recognise the value of a range of measures to develop Australian workplaces.

AHRI said the NDIC was a high-profile embodiment of Navy’s com-mitment to building a modern work-

place and valuing the contribution of every serving member.

The Inclusive Workplace award nomination recognised the contri-bution of the NDIC as a strategic decision-making body which drives diversity outcomes and brings stronger frameworks for inclusion.

Institute chairman Peter Wilson said the awards helped celebrate business leadership and excellence in human resource practice.

“It is a privilege to host this annual opportunity to highlight the work of individuals who are contrib-uting to the impact organisations are making in boosting the productivity of the nation through excellent man-agement of their people,” he said.

WO role recognised

VITAL aid has been delivered to the people of Tonga by RAAF C-17A Globemaster aircraft in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Gita.

After tearing through Samoa, Gita intensified to a category four cyclone as it struck Tonga’s capi-tal, Nuku’alofa, causing power outages and widespread devasta-tion on February 12.

The second C-17 de l iv -ery of aid was received by Tonga’s Deputy Prime Minister Semisi Sika and Director of the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) Leveni Aho at Fua’amotu International Airport.

Mr Sika said the people of Tonga were extremely appreciative and anxiously waiting to receive supplies as many were still housed in evacuation centres. He said 70 per cent of Tonga’s population had been affected by Gita.

Tonga’s Parliament House and the national radio station were badly damaged by 200km/h winds that battered the main island.

While the first Australian aid stores are being received by those affected, intermittent communica-tions, blocked roads and damage to infrastructure are proving to be a challenge.

An ADF support response team was working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs nd Trade and the NDMO to conduct damage assessments.

Tonga receives aid from ADF

Advancing diversity

Director General Navy Communication and Coordination CAPT Charlie Stephenson with members of the Diversity and Inclusion Council and graduates and staff from the Navy Indigenous Development Program after receiving the finalist awards.

THE University of Tasmania will partner with US universities to conduct research to help improve Australia’s naval capability.

Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne said the partner-ship was made possible through a $3 million grant over three years for the University of Tasmania to participate in the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative a d m i n i s t e r e d b y t h e U S Department of Defense.

“The university’s Australian Maritime College will join seven leading US universities in hydro-dynamics research, which will assist in developing Australia’s ship and submarine capability,” Mr Pyne said.

The US academic institutions involved in the hydrodynamics research include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University, the California Institute of Technology and the Universities of California, Minnesota, Iowa and Michigan. They will receive funding from the US Office of Naval Research.

The researchers will study the physics of cavitation to enhance the understanding of how it affects the performance of naval vessels.

The grant is being provid-ed under the Next Generation Technologies Fund led by the Defence Science and Technology Group.

Grant to boost capability

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3NEWSFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

Patrol boats in two rescues

Cape Fourcroy (pictured) and Cape Inscription were involved in two maritime rescues in seven days. Photo: ABIS Kayla Hayes

CMDR Fenn Kemp

A GROUP of trainee navigators are recovering after being put through one of the toughest fort-nights of their promising new careers.

The young officers have completed the sea assessment period of their Surface Combatant Navigation Course, which comprised a series of challenges in a realistic warfare environment.

There was no room for error for the five lieu-tenants embarked in HMAS Parramatta.

While there is a significant safety system in place, the students were navigating a real warship in challenging scenarios in the confined waters of the Whitsunday Islands.

To get to this final step, each had undergone a comprehensive theoretical study of navigation including astronomy, advanced navigation tech-niques, equipment and an in-depth study of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea, which requires the students to achieve 100 per cent in their final exam.

The broader Surface Combatant Navigation course runs for 12 weeks at HMAS Watson’s navigation faculty and culminates in one month of practical training.

The practical phase includes one week in the bridge simulator, one week at sea practising degraded mode navigation techniques in the navi-gation training vessel Mercator, and two weeks at sea in a frigate or destroyer (usually in company with another).

Director Training Authority Maritime Warfare joins them for the final week to oversee their final assessment.

All agreed the sea component was the most challenging.

LEUT Amy Brauns was among those to com-plete the course.

“If you thought you knew how to navigate a ship within navigation constraints, this course will push you to the limit,” she said.

“It teaches you that everything up until these two weeks has been open-water pilotage at slow speeds with an excess of navigation equipment available.”

Colleague LEUT Craig Foran said the fort-night had been an opportunity to build upon skills.

“It allowed us to use our training and come up with a plan that could be executed safely,” he said.

“All this while you maintain high speeds and pass very close to dangers.

“At the end it is a highly positive and reward-ing experience.”

On completion of the course, the students will join frigates and destroyers as navigation officers for a typical two-year posting before the Principle Warfare Officer and Advanced Navigation Course.

No room for errorA tough test to navigate

The view from the bridge of HMAS Parramatta as she manoeuvres in the confined waters of the Whitsundays.

LEUT Amy Brauns (above) uses her stopwatch while (right) one of her colleagues checks coordinates during the sea phase of the navigation course.

LEUT Todd Fitzgerald

ADV Cape Inscription has rushed to the aid of a vessel on fire in Darwin Harbour.

It was the second incident this month where a Navy-crewed Cape-class patrol boat assisted mariners in distress.

The patrol boat was in the middle of a training exercise on February 12 when crew members noticed black smoke pouring from a pleasure craft off East Point.

XO Cape Inscription LEUT William Jackman said the crew’s response was “rapid and profes-sional”.

The flames spread so quickly the three men aboard the burning boat were forced to jump into crocodile-inhabited waters.

People on another pleasure craft nearby plucked them from the water.

“The crew in Cape Inscription promptly alerted harbour authorities and then quickly launched a cor-rectly prepared and outfitted team to render assistance as required,” LEUT Jackman said.

“However, despite our aid party arriving on the scene shortly after noticing the smoke, the vessel was completely engulfed in flames. There was nothing that could be done for her.”

LEUT Jackman said continuous

training ensured Navy crews were ready to respond to any situation at sea.

It was the second time in seven days that a Navy patrol boat was involved in a maritime rescue.

ADV Cape Fourcroy rescued nine Papua New Guinea fishermen adrift without food or fuel in the Torres Strait after they were spotted by a Maritime Border Command helicopter on February 5.

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THAT medication you bought over the counter last time you had a bad headache may now be classed as a prohibited substance, and if taken, could harm your Navy career.

The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration determined that medicines containing codeine will only be available on prescrip-tion from February 1.

Defence members who con-sume medications containing codeine without prescription may be subject to sanction, including termination of their service, under the Prohibited Substance Testing Program.

LCDR David Munro, of Navy Alcohol and other Drug Services, said Fleet Command had made all shore and sea commands of the change.

LCDR Munro’s advice to all Navy personnel is to not take medi-cation unless they have been pre-scribed by a health professional for a current condition.

“If a Navy member has a health concern they should attend their local health centre for assistance and follow the advice given,” he said.

Don’t let pain relief hurt your career

He said for Navy members there was no change to requirements, as they had always required health products to be prescribed or dis-pensed by a health professional.

“If a Navy member attends an external health provider and is pre-

scribed health products they are required to provide all documenta-tion to their health centre.”

More information can be found at https://[email protected] or chchangeDefgram 031/2018

Personnel need to be aware they cannot consume drugs containing codeine without a prescription.

LCDR Jocelyn Blowfield

THE ship’s company of HMAS Creswell has taken up the chal-lenge to be fit to fight by embracing increased physical and adventure training opportunities.

With a bigger focus on adventure training, members of the ship’s com-pany have participated in two recent challenges. One was a 10-hour, 12km, 1560m climb of The Castle in Morton National Park, and the other was a three-day 51km kayak trek through the upper Shoalhaven River.

The motto for the activities was ‘it’s not meant to be easy’, and LEUT Shane Wallace said the treks delivered.

While Navy training courses include a physical element in their program it can be difficult for staff at training establishments to take time out to focus on physical and mental resilience.

The introduction of Command-led staff physical training three days a week has increased attendance and improved overall fitness standards.

Head Training Systems Creswell LCDR Justin Mangan said staff found the program beneficial.

“For those unable to attend the morning session due to work com-

Creswell explores fitness options

mitments, there is an increased acceptance of taking time out any time during the day to attend the gym,” LCDR Mangan said.

The base’s 10-week fitness chal-lenge, led by LEUT Sally Casey and LSPTI Jake Garrick, has also been included in the fit-to-fight program and focuses on increasing individual fitness levels.

CPOPTI Brad Walsh said attend-ance at sessions had been steadily increasing throughout the program.

“As a PTI, it gives me profes-sional and personal pride that my team mates are enjoying exercise and working together as a team,” he said.

Below: Personnel take part in the kayak leg of the HMAS Creswell Command Challenge in Jervis Bay.

Participants who climbed The Castle in Morton National Park were rewarded with spectacular views.

One of the sections during the three-day kayaking trek on the Shoalhaven River.

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THE ADF used International Day for Women and Girls in Science – February 11 – to highlight the world class train-ing opportunities for women and girls interested in science, technology, engi-neering and mathematics (STEM).

In 2017, 41 per cent of female stu-dents at ADFA studied science, engi-neering, technology, computing and cyber security degrees.

Senior Military Recruiting Officer CMDR Cath Hayes graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) with a Bachelor of Science, majoring in oceanography.

CMDR Hayes, a Maritime Warfare Officer, was the first female to com-mand a warship in the Middle East region.

Her advice to young women is to study and pursue a career in STEM because it opens doors to exciting careers in the ADF.

“Having a foundation in science and mathematics will give you opportuni-ties to work with some of the most advanced and exciting technology and systems in the world,” CMDR Hayes said.

“So much of what a MWO does has a mathematical element to it. You need to be able to think quickly and make calculated decisions at a moment’s notice.

“To drive a warship you need to understand the engineering of the ship, understand how the ship works both mechanically and electronically. It’s what enables you to employ the weap-

ons systems and keep the ship and the crew safe at all times.”

ADFA graduate Specialist Recruiter for Women FLTLT Belinda Pavlovic completed a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering to become an aeronautical engineer in the RAAF.

It’s a day job which involves main-taining and managing aircraft struc-tures, propulsion systems, ancillary equipment and related ground support systems, working at the leading edge of aircraft technology.

It wasn’t her first role in the Air Force. FLTLT Pavlovic joined in 2004 as an aircraft technician, a role which also involves maintaining and repairing state-of-the art aircraft, before deciding to pursue a career as an officer.

“Trainee officers studying at ADFA through the University of NSW in Canberra benefit from the best univer-sity teacher-to-student ratio in the coun-try,” FLTLT Pavlovic said.

“Right now I’m focused on attract-ing the best and most talented candi-dates Australia has to offer to consider ADF careers.

“I feel lucky that mathematics and science appealed to me. I hope we can spark an interest in the next generation of girls by sharing where science and maths could take them.”

For more information, go to www.defence-jobs.gov.au/students-and-education/australi-an-defence-force-academy

Women STEM the tide

CMDR Cath Hayes was the first female to command a warship in the Middle East region as CO of HMAS Toowoomba in 2014. Photo: LSIS James Whittle

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IN BRIEF

Promoting law enforcementPERSONNEL from CTF150 and HMAS Warramunga participated in Exercise Cutlass Express in the first week of February.

Sponsored by US Africa Command and conducted by US Naval Forces Africa, the annual exercise is designed to improve maritime law enforcement capacity and promote regional security in the Western Indian Ocean.

Commander CTF150 CDRE Mal Wise said this year’s Cutlass Express – held in Victoria, Seychelles – involved mentor-ing and instruction to assess and improve regional maritime law enforcement practices and build regional capacity.

“The instruction provided by combined mentor teams in the past has shown very positive results,” CDRE Wise said.

“This approach to training allows participating nations to benefit from mentor experiences, building an enduring capability in the region.”

Commander of ADF personnel in the Middle East RADM Jaimie Hatcher said it was important to mentor regional navies in maritime safety and security.

“Working alongside participat-ing nations in this exercise dem-onstrates Australia’s commitment

to maritime security and stability in the Middle East and Western Indian Ocean,” RADM Hatcher said.

“Ensuring we continue to fos-ter naval partnerships will further enhance the free flow of commerce in some of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.”

The seventh iteration of the

exercise involved warships from regional nations and included training both ashore and at sea.

Participating nations included Canada, Comoros, Denmark, Djibouti, France, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Netherlands, Seychelles, Somalia, Turkey and the United States.

CTF150 legal officer LCDR Jacqueline Swinton takes a law class during the exercise. Photo: Ford Williams


THE return of a rescued green sea turtle to the ocean by HMAS Childers has capped a successful few months for patrol boats in the Top End on their mission to protect Australia’s natural resources.

As part of Maritime Border Command, a multi-agency taskforce within the Australian Border Force, and in partnership with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority, the patrol boats apprehended four Indonesian fishing vessels suspected of illegally fishing in Australian waters.

Our crews removed almost six tonnes of ghost nets from the ocean, and rescued and released ‘Franklin’ the turtle.

XO Childers LEUT Danielle Couch said involvement in Franklin’s release was a fitting reward for the crew’s hard work.

“It showed we are making a dif-ference to Australian waterways,” LEUT Couch said.

The crew of Childers found Franklin floating in the ocean just off Darwin with a puncture wound to her shell late last year.

They transferred her to Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Service, which along with Charles Darwin University, AusTurtle and Animal Ark Veterinary Clinic, rehabilitated the reptile.

Green sea turtles are an endan-gered species and Franklin would have died without the intervention of the Childers crew.

Other marine species have not been so lucky. Six dolphins, two turtles, nine blacktip reef sharks, one crab and a number of small reef fish were found dead in ghost nets recent-ly retrieved by HMAS Arunta.

Commander Maritime Border Command RADM Peter Laver said protecting Australia’s vast maritime domain from pollution and illegal

Guarding our seas

fishing was one of his command’s primary objectives.

“These nets are incredibly dam-aging to our unique maritime envi-ronment and it’s an important part of our operations to locate and remove them,” RADM Laver said.

He said cooperation between Australian Fisheries Management Authority and Maritime Border Command had resulted in a sig-nificant reduction in illegal fishing vessels entering Australian waters in recent years, “but as these latest

detections show we must remain vig-ilant. Anyone attempting to exploit our precious natural resources, even in the vast expanse of Australian waters, should expect to be inter-cepted by one of our vessels and will face penalties.”

HMAS Childers crew members prepare to release Franklin.

Destroyer milestoneTHE Air Warfare Destroyer project has been removed from the list of projects of concern following improvements in shipbuilding per-formance. The project was placed on the list in June 2014 owing to commercial, schedule and cost risks. Defence Minister Marise Payne said the recent commission-ing of HMAS Hobart demonstrated the program was now capable of producing highly potent Air Warfare Destroyers. “The two destroyers Brisbane and Sydney are both on track to be delivered against the reformed schedule and set to add to Navy’s capabilities,” Senator Payne said.

Games securityDEFENCE is working with partner agencies to ensure a safe and successful 2018 Commonwealth Games in Queensland from April 4-15. The ADF, Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force will support Queensland Police, the lead agency for Games security.

Singers wantedTHE Australian Military Wives Choir is looking for volunteers to join their choirs across Australia and now Penang, Malaysia. Wives, girlfriends, sisters and mothers of ADF personnel are welcome to join as well as serving female ADF members. The choir will host ‘come and try’ nights throughout February and March. For further information visit www.amwchoir.com

Veterans invitedFORMER RAN, RN and Merchant Navy members and their families are invited to attend monthly meet-ings of NAA Dandenong at the Noble Park RSL, and the HMAS Bataan Veterans Association of Australia invites former crew mem-bers and their families to bi-monthly meetings at the Dandenong RSL. Contact National Secretary John Laughton on (03) 5904 9457, 0417 336 423 or [email protected]

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Pup Elliott

A LAST Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial on February 5 provided a poignant reminder of the close bond between Australia and France.

DCN RADM Mike Noonan and his French counterpart VADM Denis Béraud interrupted their offi-cial meetings to lay wreaths at the ceremony.

The opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice of service men and women from both nations came as scheduled Navy-to-Navy talks were being conducted in Canberra.

VADM Béraud is no stranger to working with Australians. He was CO FNS Charles de Gaulle (2005-2007), an aircraft carrier participat-ing in operational missions in the Indian Ocean in support of coalition forces engaged in Afghanistan.

RADM Noonan said the RAN

Taking time to remember

regularly participated in training and operations with the French Navy.

“The opportunity for French and Australian warships to train togeth-er presents a valuable opportunity for the region, improving security and further enhancing our level

of interoperability and maritime awareness in our region,” VADM Noonan said.

“This Navy-to-Navy engage-ment is part of our routine regional activities in both North and South- East Asia and supports regional security.”

DCN RADM Mike Noonan and his French counterpart VADM Denis Béraud at the Last Post ceremony.Photo: POIS Paul Berry

PTE Renee Breeze

BEING mobbed by kids want-ing photo opportunities in rural Australia isn’t a typical sailor’s experience, but for ABATA Theo Honing-Wassenburg it’s a highlight of life at Australia’s Federation Guard (AFG).

“My favourite ceremonies are catafalque parties for small towns,” AB Honing-Wassenburg said.

“Because they don’t get much military exposure they really put a lot of effort into making it a great day for everyone.

“Having kids want to take photos with you, and Vietnam veterans shake your hand to say ‘thank you’ is something really special to me.”

AB Honing-Wassenburg said although the core of his job involved a lot of drill practice, he appreciated the experiences it allowed him to have.

“The highlight of my posting to the AFG so far was a trip to Gallipoli last year,” he said.

“It was phenomenal.“Although I wasn’t part of the

dawn service, I got to do the Lone Pine catafalque party.”

Finding the NZDF contin-gent short-staffed, AB Honing-Wassenburg said he and another AFG member volunteered to join their ceremonies to create a full detail.

“The Kiwis didn’t have wreath orderlies so we were able to help out,” he said.

“Seeing their take on the cata-falque party was interesting. They have similar drill movements so we showed them ours and they showed us theirs.

“We adjusted the timings so we could perform all of the moves together.”

AB Honing-Wassenburg said the chance to be a part of the AFG team was rewarding and important.

“It’s a rare opportunity to show respect for those who have come before us,” he said.

“It also informs the next genera-tion about our history.

“We learn a lot about the his-torical context of ceremonies from guys who’ve participated before.

“I feel a lot more connected to it.”

SGT Dave Morley

AUSTRALIA’S Federation Guard is looking for a few good men and women from across the three services.

AFG XO CAPT Simon Sheridan said the AFG offered an excellent opportunity for ADF members to work in a triservice environment, and an opportunity to represent their country.

“The AFG performs all ceremo-nial duties on behalf of the Governor-General and the Prime Minister and Cabinet for visiting dignitaries, and memorial services for our fallen ADF members,” CAPT Sheridan said.

“Here, officers have an opportunity to work with some of the best from across the three services.”

CAPT Sheridan, who has travelled around Australia and overseas in his role, said it had been great to see plac-es where our soldiers had fought and died on Australia’s behalf.

“This year is the final year of the Centenary of Anzac and we’ve got a number of commemorations hap-pening, starting with the Anzac Day Western Front visits to Belgium and France, but also Gallipoli,” he said.

“After that we’ll be visiting Le Hamel, then there’ll be services in Mont St Quentin and Amiens, fol-lowed by the Armistice commemo-ration on Remembrance Day. I’ll be attending Anzac Day in Villers-Bretonneux this year.”

CAPT Sheridan said once the Centenary of Anzac was finished in 2019, DVA intended to continue the Anzac Day Western Front visits, as well as Gallipoli.

“There are a number of smaller trips, including Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste, with Malaysia on the cards,” he said.

Guard SGTMAJ WO2 Chris Grant encouraged ADF members to consider a posting to AFG.

“If you want to try something new, if you want a break from your old job, if you’re at a crossroads in your job, this might be a good avenue for you,” he said.

“If you’re into fitness, we’re big on that – we do PT every day and sport twice a week.”

WO2 Grant said a posting to AFG was also great for members with fami-lies because they work from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

“A lot of people who come from units and regiments where they spent a lot of time in the field doing hard things now find they can take their

Join a guard of honour

kids to school and attend their sporting events, things they miss when they’re in a unit,” he said.

“We do a lot of drill early in the postings to get people up to speed in

the first couple of weeks.“You’ll do a couple of hours of drill

from 10am to midday every day, but once the standards of drill are met we can relax a little bit and continue to

train for what’s coming up next.”WO2 Grant said there were about

40 drill movements which AFG mem-bers trained for.

“We train with the self-loading rifle

(SLR), so unless you’re really old, you wouldn’t have seen one of these,” he said.

“Depending on a person’s ability, we’ve taught people in two days how to do the drill to a good standard.

“We teach Army drill, with Navy sword drill for the officers, and we use RAAF commands, so it’s a mixture, but most times it’s the Army drill.”

WO2 Grant said historical research was also a part of the job.

“I’ve been in the Army 21 years and I didn’t know some of the history of the places we go to,” he said.

“I went to Belgium and was over-whelmed by the number of people who died over there.

“Before we go to these places we do our research and we get AFG mem-bers to do presentations on the battle we’re going to commemorate, so we’ll hear stories and really get a feel for what we’re going over there to do.

“While we’re over there we get days where we go and visit the cem-eteries and actually see the sacrifices that were made.”

Navy members who may have aspi-rations of becoming a gun number on a 105mm howitzer can have that opportunity at AFG.

WO2 Grant said AFG’s gun crews were triservice and were given the opportunity to take part in a five-day course at the unit.

“Once an AFG member has com-pleted a year’s service with the SLR, they can move over to the guns,” he said.

‘‘– AFG XO CAPT Simon Sheridan

Officers have an opportunity to work with some of the best from across the three services.

Relishing rare opportunity

ABATA Theo Honing-Wassenburg, left, and ABBM Jarrod Macumber, of Australia’s Federation Guard, during the HMAS Armidale I 75th anniversary commemorative service in Armidale in December. Photo: LSIS Kayla Hayes

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NAVY provided a helicopter and rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) on February 5 to trans-port the Queen’s Baton, which is travelling around Australia in readiness for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

CO HMAS Albatross CAPT Fiona Sneath was responsible for the baton’s journey from Kiama to Nowra, arriving at a Kiama commu-nity celebration in an MH-60R to collect the baton.

CAPT Sneath and the baton were then flown to Nowra where the helicopter landed on the banks of the Shoalhaven River. She was ferried across the river in a RHIB before handing the baton on for its journey through Nowra.

CAPT Sneath said her participation in the baton relay was a career highlight.

“The relay is a significant national and international event, but it was also a won-derful opportunity for the local Shoalhaven community to be involved in the Games and showcase the region,” CAPT Sneath said.

“I’m honoured to have been selected.

“My nomination as a baton bearer was encouraged by COMFAA CDRE Chris Smallhorn and supported by the Shoalhaven City Council. It is a tangible example of the integration and respect that Navy and Albatross have in the local community, as well

Baton role an honour

New home for HQLEUT Todd Fitzgerald

HMAS Coonawarra Command Headquarters has been relocated to the entrance of the joint Defence base at Larrakeyah Defence Precinct in Darwin.

The move aims to improve Coonawarra’s ability to support operations in the north by placing it under the same roof as other mili-tary and civilian assets tasked with the same mission.

It also gives Defence contractors better access for maintenance works to our Armidale-class patrol boats by relocating them to the former headquarters on the waterfront.

At the opening on January 15, CO Coonawarra CMDR Viktor Pilicic said the changes would help Coonawarra take greater leadership in providing a maritime effect at Larrakeyah and in Darwin.

“Coonawarra will also be bet-ter placed to provide a launch pad for our ships to fight and win at sea through opening infrastructure on the waterfront that will enable the efficient support of Armidale-class patrol boats as they continue to sail on operations and assist in the tran-sition to offshore patrol vessels,” CMDR Pilicic said.

Coonawarra’s mission is to pro-vide logistic and administrative sup-

port to the 12 boats and crews based in Darwin and to visiting naval ves-sels that patrol Australia’s maritime domain.

Opening the new headquarters in one of his last official functions as COMAUSFLT, RADM Stuart Mayer said the changes would ensure Navy could meet future chal-lenges.

“When people come through the front gate of Larrakeyah Defence Precinct they see Coonawarra front and centre and side-by-side with public service and the other Services. It really is a great mes-sage,” he said.

CO HMAS Albatross CAPT Fiona Sneath (above) waves to crowds of people lining the banks of the Shoalhaven River during a leg of the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay in Nowra, and PO Liam Carruthers (left) with the baton during his leg of the relay through Coffs Harbour. Photos: LSIS Justin Brown

‘‘– LS Jan Gilmour, participant in the

Queen’s Baton relay for the Commonwealth

Games

An event like the Games is a unifying one and connects hearts and souls.

as demonstrating the unity and support that exists between the Navy elements in the region.

“While I personally carried the baton, I was supported by many staff, both visible and behind the scenes.”

Other Albatross person-nel chosen to carry the baton were sensor operator PO Liam Carruthers and community

engagement coordinator LS Jan Gilmour.

PO Carruthers, accom-panied by an honour guard from 725SQN, carried the baton through the squadron’s adopted city of Coffs Harbour. He said he was privileged and thankful for the opportunity.

“For me personally to be entrusted to carry the Queen’s

message on its journey was a proud achievement,” PO Carruthers said.

LS Jan Gilmour is known in the Shoalhaven community for her tireless work coordinat-ing community engagement events.

LS Gilmour said her involvement in the relay was something she would still be talking about when she was old and grey and in a nursing home.

“I remember when I was in primary school starting each day with my hand over my heart enthusiastically singing God Save the Queen. She is such an amazing woman and a real inspiration to me, and I still having trouble believ-ing that I was responsible for carrying the Queen’s message as part of the Commonwealth Games,” LS Gilmour said.

“I have represented Defence in competitive sport, and that personal experience allows me to see that the Games are not just about the sport, not just the people par-ticipating in it or the people watching it.

“An event like the Games is a unifying one and connects hearts and souls. I am very excited to have played a part in that and now have my own little place in history.”

More imagery can be seen on the Navy Image Library at http://images.navy.gov.au/S20180148.

Then COMAUSFLT RADM Stuart Mayer and CO HMAS Coonawarra CMDR Viktor Pilicic in front of the new headquarters with members of the command team. Photo: LSIS James Whittle


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THE ship’s company of HMAS Creswell celebrated the 60th anniversary of the base’s commissioning on January 19.

Home of the Royal Australian Naval College, Creswell was named in recognition of VADM Sir William Creswell, considered the “father of the RAN”.

CO Creswell CAPT Charles Huxtable cut the anni-versary cake with the youngest member of the ship’s company, SMN Jayden Stynes. After spending time at Creswell as part of his gap year, SMN Stynes became part of officer training tradition when he started new entry officer training on Australia Day.

CAPT Huxtable said it was a privilege and honour to command Creswell.

“My own naval career started here 27 years ago,” CAPT Huxtable said.

“While the training has changed, the clock tower, the white sands of Captain’s Beach, and the kangaroos on the quarterdeck are all features of Creswell life that never change.

“They are a constant reminder of shared experienc-es, and of Creswell’s heritage and, on a day like today, a reminder of what a great place it is to be posted.”

The Captains Point site was selected by Parliament for the college in 1911.

The first training began in 1915. Among the first graduation class a year later were Midshipmen John Collins and Harold Farncomb, who would go on to serve Australia with distinction, both attaining Flag rank.

In 1930, the college was relocated to Flinders Naval Depot, HMAS Cerberus. The Captains Point site was then leased as a hotel and guesthouse. The ‘Navy Lodge Hotel’ signage on doors to the Warrant Officers and Senior Sailors Mess remains as a link to this period.

In 1958, the college returned to Jervis Bay, and the site was commissioned as HMAS Creswell.

Creswell takes the cake

CO HMAS Creswell CAPT Charles Huxtable and the youngest member of ship’s company SMN Jayden Stynes cut the anniversary cake. Photo: LCDR Jocelyn Blowfield


LEUT Troy Boswell

3D printers are modernising engineering aboard HMAS Warramunga with the ship establishing its own deployed innovation workshop.

The workshop comprises a 3D printer, new electronic kits and various civilian software tools.

Warramunga took full advan-tage of the new equipment in November last year when the ship suffered a pressure sensor problem.

ABET Luke Pozzi used the new equipment to design, print and fit a temporary replacement

part at sea, restoring full func-tionality.

“We looked out our options and thought ‘why not just print a fix’, and within 24 hours we were able to print and fit the part,” AB Pozzi said.

“Initially we were unsure that it would work, so it was quite a buzz when the system came up to the correct pressure.”

On-board tutorials for the new equipment were devel-oped and tailored by the ship’s engineers, who conduct weekly workshops on computer aid design, 3D printing and soft-ware development.

As the ship progresses

into more complex tutorials it is hoped skills will be applied beyond the technical depart-ments to design, develop and enact solutions ship-wide.

The equipment and tutorials enable the ship’s company to meet CN’s Innovation Statement by enhancing technical resil-ience in the deployed environ-ment.

The deployed innovation workshop, an FFG Enterprise, was established and coordi-nated by the Fleet Base East Centre for Innovation and Warramunga during preparation for the ship’s deployment on Operation Manitou.

The Centre for Innovation inspires personnel to make ideas become reality, CPL Sebastian Beurich reports.

Giving sailors the power to innovateNESTLED in an unassuming

building within the Garden Island Defence Precinct is the Fleet Base East Centre

for Innovation – a splash of colour alongside the grey of Navy’s ships.

Decorated with a kraken motif, the centre consists of just three rooms – an open-plan meeting room, a computer lab and a workshop.

Although it’s only a small space, Directorate of Navy Continuous Innovation Project Manager CMDR Steve Thompson said FBE’s officers and sailors had made good use of the facilities.

“When we opened up, all of a sudden young sailors had a place they could come with their ideas or problems, and find a solution in an environment with no boundaries on innovation,” CMDR Thompson said.

“Our job at the centre is to grab those people and their ideas, and take them as far as they can go.

“It’s about helping those sail-ors who have an idea and taking it through to fruition, whether that means it’s something they can fix immediately on their ship or some-thing which involves more than one ship.”

While CMDR Thompson is used to dealing with strategic-level prob-lems, Centre for Innovation Manager Don Moloney, who helped create the centre, said its main aim was to help individuals fix problems – big or small.

“One person – after learning computer-aided design and holding the physical representation of an idea in their hand – told me it felt like they had a new superpower,” Mr Moloney said.

“It really stuck in my head – the person was so excited, but they’d also cleared the fuzz between an idea in their head and having a phys-ical, functional prototype.”

The centre’s use of 3D printing

MIDN Jack Burrows tests an electronic circuit prototype that was produced at the centre and (right) designs a ship using a computer-aided design program.

Capability to problem-solve at sea

A new pressure sensing adaptor (the red component) in one of HMAS Warramunga’s electronic systems after being produced by the ship’s 3D printer.

– Centre for Innovation Manager Don Moloney

allows for rapid design and pro-totyping of objects without using metal, but it also has the facilities to produce textile, electronic and vir-tual prototypes.

“When we do a tour of the cen-tre, we usually do a virtual reality demonstration using an HTC Vive, but we also take visitors through our textile workstation,” Mr Moloney said.

“Innovation doesn’t have to be sexy. It can be about very conven-tional fabrication tools, or even just helping someone with an idea.”

One person who has had a lot of help with his ideas is HMAS Darwin’s POET Matt Perry, who used the centre’s 3D printing facilities for the Fleet Engineering Challenge last year.

“The first time I took part in the engineering challenge, we had

nowhere else to go other than the ship, so we were very limited in what we could achieve,” PO Perry said.

“Using the centre is a totally dif-ferent world for us. We’re able to set ourselves up, and walk away if we need to go to sea, then come straight back to it with all of the support which is offered here.

“I love this sort of stuff – 3D printing – it’s one of my hobbies at home, so I’d definitely like to see it keep going.

“At the end of the day, the centre and the mindset it brings is some-thing that will change everything – from attitude to policy, top to bot-tom.”

For more information about the centre, search for Navy Innovation on the DRN, or email [email protected]

‘‘Innovation doesn’t have to be sexy. It can be about very conventional fabrication tools, or even just helping someone with an idea.

POET Matt Perry uses a virtual reality program at the Fleet Base East Centre for Innovation. Photos: CPL Sebastian Beurich

ABET Luke Pozzi with HMAS Warramunga’s 3D printer. Photos: LSIS Tom Gibson


Bedding down a good idea

The Centre for Innovation inspires personnel to make ideas become reality, CPL Sebastian Beurich reports.

Andrew Bujdegan

A GROUP of submariners have developed an innovative solution for temporary accommodation in submarines.

Seeing the need to replace the outdated wooden accommo-dation beds used in the Collins-class submarines, sailors at Fleet Support Unit - West at HMAS Stirling developed the subma-rine accommodation capsule.

The capsule was designed to be durable, practical and inter-face with existing infrastructure, requiring no additional support equipment or modifications to be installed within the subma-rine.

A Collins-class submarine usually goes to sea with an additional 12 trainees, ensuring every minute of sea time is used productively.

The extra personnel are accommodated in the subma-rines’ weapons storage com-partment, where they sleep in a makeshift wooden rack system. These racks are mounted on the weapons-handling system and are bulky and awkward to store.

The new capsules are the same size and shape as the Mark 48 torpedo used in the submarine, and are designed to be mounted and secured using existing componentry.

If needed, the capsules can be easily moved and stowed in the existing torpedo racking, offering practicality, flexibility and seamless integration into current practices.

The team used the special-ist manufacturing and welding skills of POMT Adam Crich

One of the old wooden beds in the foreground and the new accommodation capsule to the right. The capsule can be lifted vertically and locked into the torpedo racks when not required.

and LSMT Adrian Vorwerk to improve the initial Submarine Force prototype design.

The ability to “think outside the box” enabled additional fea-tures to be incorporated as the project developed. One example is the locking band, which is designed to hold the two halves of the capsule together during transportation and storage.

Other practical additions were the inclusion of detach-able “wings” for the capsule, which provide a wider, more generous sleeping area for the crew, and “headboards”, which define a person’s space and prevent excessive movement of mattresses and pillows.

Project oversight was pro-vided by WOMTSM Paul Ross, who was pleased with the way personnel worked together and evolved the original concept. WO Ross originally approached CPO Matthew Philp with the

concept and a rough plan, which evolved into the ingen-ious solution that exists today.

“The inclusion of personal equipment storage and ease of transport of the final product has displayed the amount of rigour and thought that has gone into the design,” WO Ross said.

COMSUBFOR CAPT Geoff Wadley said he was proud of the end result.

“The team identified a need, took the initiative in proposing a solution and got on with the job,” CAPT Wadley said.

“They produced a simple yet effective way of making life a bit easier for our submariners.”

The capsules, currently deployed in HMAS Rankin, are undergoing evaluation to ensure the design meets the stringent requirements for use on board our submarines.‘‘– COMSUBFOR CAPT Geoff Wadley

The team identified a need, took the initiative in proposing a solution and got on with the job.

The new submarine accommodation capsules with the mattresses removed, showing the personal storage compartments.

Two sections lock together for easy transportation and storage.

www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018 1312 CENTREHISTORIC HOBART VISIT

HMAS Hobart had a busy few weeks going through its evolutions ahead of visiting her namesake

city.It was the first time in 18 years a

ship carrying the name Hobart has visited the city, where the guided missile destroyer featured as the flagship in the Royal Hobart Re-gatta, which began on February 10.

CO Hobart CAPT John Stavridis said the ship’s company was excited to strengthen ties with Hobart and Tasmania.

“Hobart has always been a friend of Navy and we are proud to bring our newest ship into this spe-cial city for the first time,” CAPT Stavridis said.

“It’s an honour to show our capabilities and welcome the local community on board, just as they’ve welcomed us into their city.

“Hobart is a world-class warship and we appreciate the opportunity to visit our namesake and see the support we have from this community before we embark on a busy year at sea proving what we can do.”

While in Hobart, the ship’s company exercised its right to Freedom of Entry and hosted a public open day.

The new destroyer achieved a number of firsts for her class en route to Hobart.

She successfully tested her 20mm close-in weapons system (CIWS) against an inflatable sur-face target, marking the first time an Australian warship has fired a CIWS capable of striking air and surface targets.

The ship’s five-inch main gun was tested against a towed target from varying distances and direc-

tions in an early morning naval gunfire exercise.

Two practice delivery torpe-does were also fired from the port and starboard tubes with both torpedoes recovered for analysis by Surface Forces Branch.

Test Director LCDR David Small, who oversaw the program of firing serials, said they would help prove the true capabilities of Australia’s newest warships.

“First-of-class trials set a base-line for the performance of a new class of ship,” LCDR Small said.

“The next key aim is to validate our standard operating procedures as two more guided-missile de-stroyers come online.”

“Surface Forces will now pre-pare a trial report of observations and recommendations, including changes to procedure or potential physical changes to the ship itself.”

Hobart completed a number of other evolutions for the first time during her trial period, including a replenishment at sea with HMAS Anzac and a deepwater anchor in the waters off Jervis Bay.

CAPT John Stavridis said the ship had shown its capability in a number of war-like scenarios.

“Hobart is an outstanding war-ship that is up to the rigours that come with a busy tempo,” CAPT Stavridis said.

“Many of the things we have achieved for the first time these past several weeks will be daily requirements of this ship over decades to come and we’ve shown we are a DDG with a ruthlessly professional crew that gets the job done.”

Hobart will conduct further trials throughout the year culmi-nating with an evaluation period in the United States.

SIX Tasmanians made a life-changing commitment when they enlisted in the Navy in a ceremony aboard HMAS Hobart on February 12.

Navy’s newest recruits stood beneath the Austral-ian White Ensign on the ship’s flight deck as they swore allegiance to Queen and country.

CO Hobart CAPT John Stavridis personally wel-comed the recruits and thanked their families for their support.

“I couldn’t be prouder of my crew and I’m proud of these six Tasmanians joining our ranks today,” CAPT Stavridis said.

“Without a crew, a ship is just a hunk of metal, and it is the support of families that help our people complete their training and eventually go to sea.”

Jessie Donald, of Launceston, said joining the

Navy was something she had always wanted to do.“I’ve always been interested in working on a ship

and travelling the world,” Ms Donald said.“The nerves kicked in at Anglesea Barracks this

morning before the ceremony but the Navy will be a hands-on job and I’m really excited.

“I like that it’s an active job that needs me to be fit and I’m really looking forward to the high rope course at Recruit School.”

Ms Donald is joining as a boatswains mate and, although nervous, she said she was excited about the challenge Recruit School was about to bring.

All six recruits will start 11 weeks of training at HMAS Cerberus before starting their specific job training.

EVOLUTIONS ON TARGETHMAS Hobart was hard at work ahead of a warm reception in her namesake city, writes LEUT Ryan Zerbe

Proud day for recruits

CO HMAS Hobart CAPT John Stavridis watches on as Jessie Donald swears allegiance to Queen and coun-try during an enlistment ceremony on board Hobart. Photo: ABIS Craig Walton

HMAS Hobart fires a round from her Mark 45 5-inch gun during test firing off the east coast of Australia.Photos: ABIS Craig Walton

An inflatable target is hit by 20mm rounds from HMAS Hobart’s close-in weapons system.

CO HMAS Hobart CAPT John Stavridis leads his ship’s company through the streets of Hobart while exercising their Freedom of Entry.

SMNBM Katrina Allan fires a gun line to HMAS Anzac to com-mence HMAS Hobart’s first RAS.

Video of the trials can be seen at video.defence.gov.au/play/5538

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DEFENCE FORCE

INVESTMENT SPECIALISTS

Terminated from ADFAN ALLEGATION was made that an ADF member was using a Defence-issued mobile phone excessively for personal use. The matter was investigated, and it was found the member did not have a justifiable reason for a Defence mobile phone in their current posi-tion, and that inappropriate conduct had occurred over a two-year peri-od. The allegations were substanti-ated, the member was ordered to repay the value of all phone calls and texts over the two-year period and was terminated from the ADF.

False claimsOVER a 17-month period, an ADF member received $12,031 in rental allowance they were not entitled to. The member was clas-sified as Member with Dependants (Unaccompanied), but a change in their personal circumstances meant they should have been reclassified as Member without Dependants. The matter was investigated after an internal report identified irregularities. The mem-ber was found guilty of offences under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982, and ordered to pay more than $6000 in fines in addition to reparation to the Commonwealth.

Stock, cash stolenAN ADF member was alleged to have falsified entries in stock-take and receipt books they were responsible for in their role as a canteen manager. The member had stolen stock and cash valued at $1040 and stored it in their live-in accommodation. The matter was

THERE are times during the year when the Directorate of Fraud Control has an increase in ethical queries relating to

gifts, hospitality and sponsorship. This is viewed positively as it

shows personnel are comfortable seeking advice and assistance with ethically difficult situations, and that they know the appropriate area within Defence to contact.

It is important to remember that Defence Instruction (General) PERS 25-7: Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship provides guidance should you find yourself in a situation where you are not sure what to do.

Sometimes people ask why accepting a gift, enjoying hospital-ity or soliciting sponsorship needs to be the subject of specific policy guidance in Defence. The answer is the Australian public needs to be confident that ADF personnel carry out their duties fairly, impartially and professionally.

Defence officials must be able to

Beware those with gifts

Photo: SGT Mark Doran

Personnel need to be aware of the rules governing gifts, hospitality and sponsorship.

investigated when irregularities arose in an internal report. During the investigation, the member admitted to the offences. The mem-ber was found guilty of offences under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982, and was issued with a severe reprimand including 28 days’ detention. The member is in the process of repaying the funds and the value of the stock.

Travel card anomaliesA CMS supervisor was reviewing a subordinate’s Defence Travel Card (DTC) transactions and noticed anomalies. An ADF member had used their DTC to pay for $406 in taxi fares without authorisation. The member claimed the transac-tions were accidental, however, they occurred over a two-month period and had been acquitted by the member. The member was found guilty of offences under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 and was fined $1350. The member was also required to repay the mis-appropriated funds.

RECENT CASE STUDIES

15FEATURESFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

IF YOU accept or provide gifts, hospitality or sponsorship during the year, it is important to register the details in the gifts, hospitality and sponsorship register managed by the Chief Finance Officer Group on SharePoint at http://legacy/TeamWeb2010/CORP/find/dfc/GHS/default.aspx.

REGISTER DETAILS

demonstrate they are not improper-ly influenced in the performance of their duties by offers of gifts or other inducements.

The acceptance of gifts, hospitality and sponsorship can give rise to actu-al, potential or perceived conflicts of interest which can damage our reputa-tion with the Australian public.

Registering a gift, hospitality or sponsorship item supports open and transparent conduct within the department.

First Assistant Secretary Financial Services David Spouse said it was

important everything was seen to be above board.

“Not only is it important to gain the proper approvals for the acceptance and provision of gifts and hospitality, it is extremely important to ensure that the official acceptance and provision of gifts and hospitality is recorded on SharePoint,” Mr Spouse said.

“Putt ing the information on SharePoint enhances Defence’s ability to properly report on the acceptance and provision of gifts and hospitality.”

Whether preventing or resolving a situation, the Chief Finance Officer Group is ready to help. It is better to seek advice than act in ignorance.

For information regarding conflicts of interest, please refer to Defence Instruction (General) PERS 25-6: Conflicts of Interest and Declarations of Interests.

For more information visit the Directorate of Fraud Control website at www.defence.gov.au/AFC/FraudControlInvestigations.asp. If you have an ethical query, email [email protected].

NCO

Defence Force Magistrate

2 x Assault in a Public Place – DFDA s 33(a)Member was accused of assault-ing another person in a public place. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. Member was rep-rimanded.

2 x Destroying a Service Document – DFDA s 55(1)(d)

2 x Making a False Entry in a Service Document –

DFDA s 55 (1)(b)Member was accused of destroy-ing a service document that was the member’s duty to preserve. Member was also accused of making a false entry in a service document with intent to deceive. Member pleaded not guilty to the charges but was found guilty of the charges. Member forfeited seniority in rank and was fined $2000 (with $1000 suspended).

2 x Common Assault–

DFDA s 61(3) and Crimes Act 1900 (ACT) S 26.

2 x Act of Indecency Without

Consent – DFDA s 61 (3)

1x Prejudicial Conduct DFDA s 60(1) Member was accused of assault-ing a person. Member was also accused of committing acts of indecency on a person by inap-propriately touching that person. Member was also accused of prejudicing discipline by mak-ing an offensive statement to a person. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of all the charges. Member was reduced in rank, severely reprimanded and fined a total of $1500.

OR

Defence Force Magistrate

1 x Prejudicial Conduct – DFDA s 60(1)Member was accused of prejudic-ing discipline by participating in a social media message group by posting inappropriate responses about another member. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. Member was fined the sum of $500 (with $250 suspended).

1 x Prejudicial Conduct – DFDA s 60(1)

Member was accused of prejudic-ing discipline by participating in a social media message group by posting inappropriate responses about another member. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. Member was fined the sum of $500 (with $250 suspended).

1 x Prejudicial Conduct – DFDA s 60(1)Member was accused of prejudic-ing discipline by participating in a social media message group by posting inappropriate responses about another member. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. Member was fined the sum of $500 (with $250 suspended).

3 x Intimate Observations or Capturing Visual Data– DFDA s 61(3) and Crimes Act 1900 (ACT) s 61B(1)Member was accused of inap-propriately capturing visual data of another member. Member pleaded guilty to the charges and was found guilty of the charges. Member was sentenced to 56 days detention (with 21 days sus-pended).

All Court Martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial results are subject to command review and appeal. The results indicated are of trials across the ADF.

DECEMBER AND JANUARY TRIAL RESULTS

16 FEATURES www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018

SECURING YOUR DEVICES Set passwords on your devices

and download security updates when they are available.

Turn off GPS and location servic-es, as well as wi-fi and bluetooth when you aren’t using them.

Source your applications from reputable companies.

Avoid storing detailed personal information on your devices.

Lock down your social media profiles so they aren’t publicly accessible.

Consider whether you need to upload personally identifying data to apps.

Personal electronic devices are effectively small computers – they can be affected by malware just the same as your PC at home.

IN LATE January, the world lit up with reports that heat maps pub-lished by fitness tracking applica-tion Strava were revealing the

movements of personnel exercising on military bases.

The implication for military per-sonnel deployed to secret, or unde-clared, bases was that it would reveal the location of those bases when using their fitness trackers.

Personnel who wore their fitness trackers on patrols or during vehicle movements may have also been reveal-ing routes or patterns of life which could be exploited by enemy forces.

It’s easy to believe this isn’t a big deal, but Deputy Chief Information Warfare MAJGEN Marcus Thompson said it could create the “perfect storm” of conditions for a threat actor to target sailors, their families or colleagues.

“For the individual, the bottom line is once data is shared on the internet, whether it’s on Strava or any other app, it’s out there forever. You’ve lost control of that data,” he said.

“One of my biggest concerns is the aggregation of data over time. The data collected by apps like Strava, com-bined with other freely available data like your uploads to social media, can help others understand patterns of life for both individuals and ADF units.

“If you use a device while running

Taking the heat off

around a military base, then use the same device while running around a restricted area, it has the potential to tie the two locations together and build a picture of the individual and their unit.”

None of this is to say Navy person-

nel shouldn’t use fitness trackers – they are a great tool to make sure you are keeping your fitness on track.

First Assistant Secretary Security and Vetting Service Celia Perkins said it was important sailors were aware of the potential security risks posed by

personal electronic devices such as fit-ness trackers.

“It’s important to ask yourself where the data goes, who has access to it and what it’s being used for,” Ms Perkins said.

“The best mitigation strategy is to

actively and regularly review the pri-vacy settings of both your devices and application, and limit how much of your personal data is being collected by an app.

“The same goes for your social media accounts, internet browsers and even your smart TV.”

A lot of the personal security principles applied to fitness track-ers are the same as those applied to smartphones – especially because fit-ness trackers generally take their GPS signals from linked devices.

While it’s difficult to avoid technol-ogy which stores data about our lives, MAJGEN Thompson said the main thing was not to be complacent.

“Some of the measures you can take to minimise your personal data footprint include restricting use of personal communications devices in foreign countries and disabling public sharing options on apps,” he said.

“With technology changing so quickly, the best thing you can do is be aware of the threat and stay informed about the technology you are using.”

For further information on how to secure your devices, type “Personal Security Campaign” into the DRN search bar or talk to your Unit Security Officer.

Fitness tracking devices might be putting you and your base at risk, CPL Sebastian Beurich reports.

Activity through fitness devices can be tracked by more than just the user.

17FEATURESFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

JANUARY 15 heralded a major step forward for next-generation military helicop-ter training.

It was the first day of a 26-week course for our future Navy and Army pilots, aircrew and avia-tion warfare officers at the Joint Helicopter School (JHS) at HMAS Albatross.

CO 723SQN CMDR Bruce Willington said the program would provide the students with the best training available.

“Navy and Army aviators oper-ate some of the most advanced equipment in the world, which is now matched by the JHS state-of-the-art training facilities at 723SQN,” CMDR Willington said.

“The focus for the first few weeks has been ensuring the stu-dents’ experience was as seamless as possible from joining instruc-tions, inductions, issuing of flying clothing, through to undertaking external courses such as helicopter underwater escape training.”

The arrival of 36 students from the two services spread across three different training courses required coordination across many base ser-vices and supporting organisations.

“Seeing their enthusiasm has made the last few years of prepara-tion well worth the effort,” CMDR Willington said.

“The Navy, Army, Boeing and Thales instructors are equally enthu-siastic to put their preparation into practice.”

WOA Craig Daniel agreed that the behind-the-scenes efforts had paid off.

“Every staff member at 723SQN – both Defence and contractor – is a vital link in the chain for the pro-gramming to work,” WO Daniel said.

“The instructors are working well and the students are enjoying the great facilities that we have. They are all enjoying being here and seem to be very excited about their new career in aviation.”

The aircrewman students bring a diverse range of experience. The Navy trainees include Aviation Technician Avionics, Submariner Acoustic Warfare Analyst, Combat Systems Operator Above Water and Electronic Technician, and the Army trainees come from arms and sup-port corps.

The JHS, delivered under Joint Project 9000 Phase 7 – Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS), has been designed to evolve over the next 25 years to remain relevant to the needs of both Navy and Army.

During that time it will train up to 116 students each year.

CMDR Willington said the HATS approach had widespread benefits.

“It’s obviously great for the students as it provides them with world-class training,” CMDR Willington said.

“It’s also great for the Navy and the Army because it’s better prepar-ing those students for the future challenges ahead on the opera-tional helicopters, and it’s great for the community because it brings an additional 60 Army aircrew and about 80 Boeing and Thales Australia employees into our local community.”

LS Claire Hassam, previously an Avionics Trade Supervisor at 725SQN, is relishing new challenges as a student at the Joint Helicopter School (JHS).

“I’m now required to take on a different perspective, learning to be part of the flight crew instead of the maintenance crew,” LS Hassam said.

“The JHS establishment is an incredible place to work, the new EC 135 helicopters are amazing and the training approach and learning material surpass any I have previ-ously encountered.”

LS Hassam’s long-term career goal is to complete aircrewman train-ing at 723SQN and SENSO opera-tional flying training back at 725SQN on the Romeo and get posted to a flight as the junior aircrewman, but for now she is enjoying the fact there is much to look forward to.

“We start our first flying sorties in the next couple of weeks, so I’m really excited about getting hands-on experience with what has been theory so far,” she said.

“I feel so fortunate to be a little part of history being part of the first JHS intake.

“I was lucky enough to be on the first Romeo flight to the Middle East

The enthusiasm was palpable when Dallas McMaugh spoke with some of the first intake at the Joint Helicopter School at HMAS Albatross.

The next generation

United in their training quest

‘‘ – AB Liam Sulley, trainee at the Joint Helicopter Training School

With all the joint operations happening at the moment ... it will be great to have that common knowledge between Navy and Army.

Joint Helicopter School trainees LS Clare Hassam, CPL James Merkel and AB Liam Sulley with a new EC 135. Photo: LSIS Justin Brown

region of operations and now this. It’s going to be an exciting year.”

Fellow trainee AB Liam Sulley also transferred from maintenance to aircrew.

“I was previously an ATV on the MH-60R platform and while there have been challenges in the transi-tion, I feel my aviation background has given me a good platform to build on as I progress through the course,” AB Sulley said.

“The facility and resources avail-able here at the JHS are second to none and it’s been great integrating with the other students from both the Navy and Army.

“Everyone brings something dif-ferent.”

CPL Daniel Merkel joined the JHS from the Australian Army Aviation Corps where he was a member of Ground Crewman-Mission Support.

“Because the aviation world is not new to me this background has been beneficial as it has allowed me more time to return to the learning mindset required as a student,” CPL Merkel said.

“Considering our working life is roughly 40 years, you definitely want job satisfaction. I feel that I am in a satisfying role and I think becoming

a competent member of an airborne team will be highly rewarding.”

All three students are enthusi-astic about the JHS concept of an integrated training system.

“It makes complete sense that both Navy and Army should have the same basic aircrewman training,” CPL Merkel said.

“This is the type of streamlining that should occur further between ADF services and trades.”

LS Hassam sees both immediate and long-term benefits.

“The integrated training with Army allows everyone to share a vast range of experiences from very differing career streams prior to JHS,” LS Hassam said.

“I think in the long term this will be very beneficial for when we graduate and may work alongside our Army classmates at sea, particu-larly as our Defence Force becomes such an integrated triservice envi-ronment.”

AB Sulley agreed.“With all the joint operations hap-

pening at the moment, especially with the LHDs and Hobart-class ships coming online, it will be great to have that common knowledge between Navy and Army,” he said.

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18 PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018

LEUT Robert McRae and WO Jason McGraw

HMAS Newcastle is under new com-mand after farewelling CMDR Mark Sirois and welcoming CMDR Anita Sellick.

CMDR Sirois addressed the ship’s company at a clear lower deck ceremony at the Fleet Base East gymnasium to mark the change of command.

“I am extremely proud of each and every one of you. I could not have achieved what I did without your support,” CMDR Sirois said.

“It has been a real honour work-ing with everybody. Throughout the past two years, Newcastle has been my family.”

CMDR Sirois’ tenure as CO began in December 2015 and by his departure last month Newcastle had circumnavigated Australia and served in Exercise Kakadu and Operations Kragle and Manitou. Under his command, the ship sailed 38,453nm.

Further achievements included the first ScanEagle flight trials for Navy and subsequently the first ScanEagle operational deployment. ScanEagle is a fixed-wing unmanned aircraft system, which sends video and telemetry to a control station in

near real time to fulfil primary roles of surveillance and reconnaissance.

Newcastle’s deployment to Operation Manitou also involved the first Stingray operations during boardings, which allowed live foot-age to be relayed back to the ship, and the introduction of Bluetooth wireless headsets.

On her welcome to Newcastle as the new CO, CMDR Anita Sellick said she intended to get down to business.

“I am extremely pleased to take command of such a highly regarded ship and crew. Returning to guided missile frigates feels like coming home,” CMDR Sellick said.

“I very much look forward to completing the post-maintenance tri-als and work-up period so we can once again focus on our scheduled activities.”

CMDR Sellick brings extensive experience to Newcastle, having served in frigates, amphibious units and patrol boats.

The proud Novacastrian, origi-nally from Merewether south of Newcastle, was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal in 2013 for her meritorious devotion to duty as staff officer Navigation and Seamanship and as CMDR Policy, at the Australian Maritime Warfare Centre.

Ship’s ‘family’ farewelled


LCDR Kate Woodall has taken over as XO HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin style, ‘taking the weight’ in the form of a baby crocodile from her predecessor LCDR Phillipa Hay.

LCDR Hay said much like the croc-odile, Coonawarra was small in size but packed a big bite in terms of activity.

“As the hub of Navy’s contribution to Operation Resolute and a gateway to our northern neighbours, it is the busi-est naval port in Australia,” LCDR Hay said.

“There are more than 35 boat move-ments each week, 100 Australian and foreign warships that visit each year and only a small team of dedicated officers and sailors to support the activities.”

New XO LCDR Woodall is no stran-ger to challenges.

The maritime warfare officer spe-cialising in meteorology and oceanog-raphy has previously spent three months deployed to Antarctica to support the Australian Antarctic Division’s resupply of Showa Station.

She has deployed various times on border integrity operations in the north and to the Middle East region. She also has a master’s degree in science.

LCDR Woodall said Coonawarra had done a commendable job support-ing the Fleet.

“This is evidenced by the success of the men and women in the patrol boats consistently delivering on government- directed operations,” she said.

LCDR Hay leaves Coonawarra after almost three years as XO. She takes up the role of Planning Officer at Fleet Battle Staff in Brisbane.

Outgoing CO HMAS Newcastle CMDR Mark Sirois departs the ship.

New role a snap for XO

LCDR Kate Woodall ‘takes the weight’ as XO HMAS Coonawarra from LCDR Phillipa Hay. Photo: ABML-P Leah Croker

19GANGWAYFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

AB Melissa Maconachie paints the face of Charlie during the HMAS Stirling Families Day. Photo: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko

CPOML-C Scott Oram in the galley of HMAS Hobart. Photo: ABIS Craig Walton

LSMUSN Nigel Barrett plays the Last Post during the HMAS Nizam 73rd anniversary memorial service at Cape Leeuwin, Western Australia. Photo: LSIS Bradley Darvill

Outgoing CO HMAS Sheean LCDR Peter Ashen, left, hands over command to incoming CO CMDR Darren White in front of the crew outside the Submarine Force Headquarters at HMAS Stirling. Photo: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko

Defence members and families get into the spirit of a Defence Community Organisation welcome event at Latitude, Heidelberg, Victoria. Photo: LSIS Nina Fogliani

Navy Headquarters South Australia Command staff march with Marilyn Monroe lookalikes at the Brighton Jetty Classic. The Navy Band led more than 100 Monroe lookalikes in a parade to the foreshore for the Marilyn Jetty Swim in support of the Cancer Council charity. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

Look forward

10795271_DHA_x4_Half_Page_FA.indd 1 10/08/2017 12:49 pm

20 PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018

SLt S. Mairi Anderson RCN

AN Australian sailor has been award-ed Sailor of the Month while posted to Bahrain as part of the CMF.

LSCIS Matthew Read was recog-nised by Deputy Commander CMF CDRE Steve Dainton, of the Royal Navy, and Senior Enlisted Leader CMF Command Master Chief Lateef Compton, of the United States Navy, at a small ceremony.

LS Read received the award for his outstanding effort and perfor-mance at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. He was instrumental in the initial set-up and configuration of all CTF150 information systems.

“I am really proud to have pro-vided support to smooth Australia’s transition into command of the task force,” LS Read said.

“Getting communications up and running right away meant CTF150 was able to quickly get to work and direct HMAS Warramunga’s early success in interdicting a significant amount of narcotics. I am definitely

enjoying the operational tempo of the CTF150 environment and being at the forefront of anti-smuggling operations in the Middle East.”

LS Read was born in Christchurch, New Zealand, but made Sydney his home before joining Navy and deploying to the Middle East region.

“It’s a great experience to be out here in Bahrain having a real impact on improving regional maritime secu-rity and helping to eliminate criminal activity at sea,” LS Read said.

His work ethic and attention to detail ensured a seamless transition with minimal interruption to ser-vices so that the CTF150 team was equipped to assume command and progress the mission goals.

In addition to accounts manage-ment, LS Read has used his expert knowledge in network administration to streamline business practices asso-ciated with the Australian National systems deployed to support the Maritime Operations Support Group in Bahrain.

Bahrain honour for sailor

LSCIS Matthew Read was recognised for work ethic and attention to detail.

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21HEALTHFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

Be alert to skin lesions

There is more to protecting your skin than

slip, slop, slap, writes CPL Sebastian Beurich

Moles should be regularly checked for

changes in shape, colour or a poorly

defined border.

PROTECT YOURSELF

Seek shade Wear sun-protective

clothing Wear a broad-brimmed hat Use broad-spectrum sun-

screen with an SPF of at least 50+ and reapply every two hours and after swimming

Wear wrap-around sunglasses Consider using sundicators

(stickers which change colour to remind you when sunscreen needs to be reapplied)

VISUAL CHECKS

Keep an eye out for any moles, freckles or other lesions you have not seen before – particularly on the face, head or neck.

Look for changes in existing lesions such as:

asymmetry irregular borders colour variations large lesions (bigger than

6mm across) growing, itchy or raised

lesions bleeding or crusting lesions don’t forget to check your

fingernails

ABIDING by the mantra of ‘slip, slop, slap’ alone does not mean people are protected from contracting skin cancers.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates that this year more than 14,000 Australians will be diagnosed with melanomas – the type of skin cancer that causes the most deaths.

Joint Health Command’s Dorothy Coote says if you notice a suspicious lump or mole, it’s best to see a health professional.

“Doctors use instruments such as dermatoscopes to check skin lesions, which allow them to examine lesions beyond what can be seen by the naked eye,” Dr Coote says.

“Having a professional check your skin also allows for examination of hard-to-get-at areas, such as your scalp, the soles of your feet, or your retinas.”

Dr Coote says there are a number of things which should be taken into account when looking after skin.

“When you see a health profession-al, they’ll talk to you about your family history of skin cancers, but they’ll also review other risk factors,” she says.

“If you have a fair complexion – blonde or red hair, light-coloured eyes, fair skin and freckles – you may be at greater risk than a person with darker colouring.

“Previous exposure to the sun, use of sunbeds and episodes of sunburn are also risk factors.”

The frequency of skin checks depends on a number of different things, but if you notice a mole you haven’t seen before, it’s best to sched-ule an appointment with your Defence health professional.

“If you’re unsure about how often to get your skin checked, ask your local health practitioner,” Dr Coote said.

“Their advice will take into account your age, history of sun exposure, skin type and other factors which affect your risk of skin cancers. You may be able to align a skin check with your readiness health examination.

“Most importantly, if you find a suspicious lesion don’t delay in getting your skin checked.”

Further information about skin cancers can be found at www.cancer.org.au

22 SPORT www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS February 22, 2018

LSIS Jayson Tufrey

THE OLD stomping ground of Sydney’s Academy of Sport and Recreation was used by the Invictus Games training squad last month for the first time this year.

Thirty-six hopefuls from all three services, as well as former serving RSL veterans, vied for a spot in the wheelchair sports of rugby and basket-ball, as well as sitting volleyball, from February 9-12.

ABMT Mark Daniels, of HMAS Cerberus, who was trying out for wheelchair rugby and powerlifting, was among a handful of hopefuls from the senior service attending the North Narrabeen camp.

He suffered serious injuries as a result of a motorcycle accident.

“I applied for Invictus to have the chance to show the world I am more than my disability,” AB Daniels said.

“Just because I have lost a leg doesn’t really mean that much, and I want to show people your life doesn’t have to end when you go through something like this.”

AB Daniels said the power of recovery through sport had a lot of sig-nificance for him.

“I was initially in a pretty dark place and I turned to other coping mechanisms, which weren’t as healthy as sport,” he said.

“Then I discovered fitness, which pulled me out of it all. It pulled me out

of the PTSD and the depression and now I have used it to shape my life. It’s made me who I am now.”

AB Daniels has just submitted his paperwork to transfer his category to PTI and said as far as he knew he will be the first Defence member to be rated in the category who has entered as an above-knee amputee – as long as he passes the course.

“Now I have re-found my love for fitness, which is stronger than ever, I am all about being able to help others achieve their fitness goals,” he said.

“It’s about getting them to question their own excuses based on what they see me being able to do. I can achieve some pretty amazing things despite my disability.

“Everyone thinks they are alone and I want to show them they are not alone, that there are a lot of people who live with disabilities and who get out there and live life to the fullest.”

AB Daniels said if he was fortunate enough to make the Australian team it would be an honour to put the uniform on in front of Australia.

“The chance to show our country what current serving members and vet-erans are capable of achieving would be fantastic,” he said.

A final team of 72 will be selected mid-year and will take on 500 compet-itors from 18 nations in Sydney from October 20-27.

FOR THE 29 swimmers competing for a spot on the Australian Invictus Games 2018 team, swimming was as much about personal development as ‘making the grade’.

From February 2 to 4, the training squad members met at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre in Albert Park to take part in competitor screen-ing, time trials and technique work-shops.

As well as the coaching and sup-port staff, the swimmers were support-ed by 1992 Olympian breaststroker Linley Frame who provided much-needed administrative support and mentoring to the budding competitors.

“I will work closely with swim-ming coach Paul Schindler to provide advice and guidance for the training squad members,” Frame said.

“I spoke to participants on the importance of recovery and goal-set-ting.

“It didn’t have to be a big goal, just something they can do on a daily basis. Support in someone’s rehabilita-tion and recovery is huge, especially swimming, which supports the body and allows movement.”

Frame said being involved in the camp was very special.

“I heard some unique stories and met some amazing individuals,” she said.

“Hearing highlights of their lives and what brought them there was moti-vating. They don’t realise how inspir-ing they are.”

Schindler said focusing on tech-nique was his number one priority.

“I wanted to bring them up to a competition level,” Schindler said.

“They arrived as a beginner and left with acknowledge of how to race. There were major improvements for all involved.”

Schindler, who has 20 years of ADF and swimming experience, said they did well to take it all in.

“On a personal level it was a fan-tastic opportunity,” he said.

“They responded in a positive man-

ner, took what I gave and put it in place. It was a fantastic weekend and I am looking forward to Sydney in October.”

POML-SC Ian McCracken, who competed in Toronto last year, said he enjoyed being involved again this year.

“The camp was fantastic, especial-ly seeing all the new people and the smiles on their faces,” he said.

“I got as much as I could out of it and will hopefully make the team for Sydney.”

PO McCracken said he agreed with Frame about the benefits of water-based recovery.

“If I didn’t have water therapy for my condition I would never be as good as I am now, both physically and men-tally,” he said.

“It keeps me going every day.”PO McCracken said his favourite

discipline was breaststroke, whereas freestyle was a bit of a challenge.

“I didn’t expect to swallow a gallon of water in the 50m freestyle,” he said.

“Linley told me that even now she sometimes takes in water when swim-ming, but apart from that I loved every minute of it. It would be an honour and a privilege to represent Australia again.

“It’s very stimulating and good for my recovery.”

Olympian gives swimmers some tips

Hopefuls vie for places on squad

Former Olympian Linley Frame instructs training squad members during the technique and feedback session.

ABMT Mark Daniels participating in wheelchair basketball drills during the first training squad camp in Sydney earlier this month. Photos: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

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23SPORTFebruary 22, 2018 www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS

THE main event of the 10th SGT Matthew Locke MG charity event will be a rugby league match between the Army Thunder and the Bellingen Magpies.

The Navy Tridents will also take part in this year’s clash in Bellingen, which will feature three days of entertainment from February 23-25.

NSW Governor GEN (retd) David Hurley and Mrs Linda Hurley will attend the event and there will be performances by the Australian Army Band, a golf competition, raffles and auctions.

Sgt Locke, of SASR, was killed in Afghanistan in 2007 and since 2008 his family and community have rallied in his name to see the Army rugby league team play the Bellingen Magpies

The annual event continues SGT Locke’s legacy through the work of his family, who have raised more than $120,000 for charities including Soldier On, the Grub Club and Mates4Mates.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/1975626219316750/

Charity match

CPO Anthony Martin

LSATA Scott Tunnard will be Navy’s sole representative in the ADF ice hockey team tour of Canada.

LS Tunnard, of HMAS Albatross, is one of the founders of the ADF Ice Hockey Association and a key player in the triservice team, the Strike.

He has represented Australia, the ADF and Navy at home and abroad.

A trade supervisor at 725SQN, LS Tunnard said his unit was very supportive.

“My unit allows me to attend events and organise ‘come and try’

days for beginners at Albatross,” he said.

“We recently stood up the first unit ice hockey team, the Albatross Warbirds.”

LS Tunnard started playing ice hockey 10 years ago while serving in the Royal Navy. He transferred to the RAN in 2013 and worked diligently to help establish the asso-ciation.

This achievement culminated in the team embarking on the first overseas trip to compete in the Armed Services Ice Hockey Tournament in Las Vegas.

This year’s tour to Canada from March 3-21 will see the team

compete in many games and events throughout the tour, stopping in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal.

“The level of competition will be the highest the ADF has faced in the four years of its existence,” LS Tunnard said.

“This tour promises to be a great learning experience for all players on the team.”

The ADF Ice Hockey Association is always looking for more players.

Service members interested should con-tact ADFIHA at [email protected].

LSATA Scott Tunnard holds the Adelaide Challenge Cup (B division), which the ADF Strike won at the Adelaide Ice Arena earlier this month. Photo: CPL Anthony Kunda

Picked for Canada tour

CPL Sebastian Beurich

AFTER playing a bit of club football through the off-season, Adelaide Crows player LSEW Rhiannon Metcalfe has her head back in the game for her second AFLW season.

The Crows are preparing for their third game of the season, facing off against the Western Bulldogs, after playing against the Brisbane Lions in round one and the Melbourne Demons in round two.

“I was really excited to get back on the field and see what season two had in store for us,” LS Metcalfe said.

“Our game against the Brisbane Lions was the grand final rematch from season one.

“Unfortunately we didn’t get the result we were after, but we reviewed the game and took the lessons from it.

“We’ve done some good recruiting this year, so we’re excited to get the new players on the field and see what they can do.”

Although the team was split up during the off-season, they were often seeing other Crows players on the opposite side of the field during club footy games in Adelaide.

“Playing against the other women during the off-season was fun and interesting,” LS Metcalfe said.

“It was a good way to keep our hands on a footy, but it was also good to speak to the club-level players and offer advice to the ones who are aspiring to come up to the AFLW.

“We’ll be doing a few player appearances throughout the season this year – running camps, offering skills and just giving them exposure to football to help build those path-ways.

“It’s fantastic – the younger girls and boys are really excited to meet us, and I think they get a bit star struck. It’s great to get involved with the kids and have a laugh and kick a footy around.”

Metcalfe back to business

LSEW Rhiannon Metcalfe tackles Kate McCarthy, of the Lions, during the 2018 AFLW round 1 at Norwood Oval on February 3 in Adelaide. Photo: AFL Photos

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Volume 61, No. 2, February 22, 2018

SPORT

MAKING THE GRADE

Athletes vie for places on

Invictus Games squad

Page 22

Australian Invictus Games training squad member ABMT Mark Daniels performs wheelchair basketball drills during the first training squad camp on February 11 at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation. Photo: LSIS Jayson Tufrey

HMAS Hobart tests weapons en route to namesake city … · CPL Julia Whitwell PTE Renee Breeze ......

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