News Breakers - Defence Reserves Support
Transcription
News Breakers - Defence Reserves Support
March 2015 What’s inside? Leading Woman – GPCAPT Lisa Jackson Pulver, AM SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. A proud Koori woman with a family history of military Service, it took Lisa Jackson Pulver three attempts to join the ranks of the Royal Australian Air Force, before she was successful. Now the inaugural Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs – Air Force, GPCAPT Lisa Jackson Pulver’s journey is quite remarkable. From torrid family circumstances to ‘firsts’ in the field of medicine, research and philanthropic programs, this educated and energetic woman proves tenacity and hard work can overcome even the most significant obstacles. Lisa left home at the age of 14, spending much of her time ‘couch surfing’ and sleeping in cars and occasionally on the streets. ‘I was not good at school, I think as the result of a diabolically hard family life. There was alcohol, violence and abuse of every kind. It was literally a case of get out or die. It was a hard decision. Back then there was no government support for ‘runaways’ no matter what your family life was like. I saw some terrible things that I never want to see again, young people having to do horrible things or having horrible things happen to them. Photo: images.defence.gov.au/S20140538 GPCAPT Lisa Jackson Pulver, AM celebrating International Women's Day. Leading Woman – GPCAPT Lisa Jackson Pulver, AM 1 Recognising Excellence in Service … 5 Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy 8 Reservists Help the Watchers – 92WG 10 The Best of both Worlds – Air Force Gap Year Employment Opportunities now open… 14 Calling all Corporals interested in an exciting opportunity… 16 SQNLDR O'Neill Nurse Practitioner 17 Snakes, Crooks & Training Governance 19 Breakers’ Briefs 21 Employment & Training Opportunities 23 Mail Bag 25 EDITOR: SQNLDR Kate Fox SOC DGRES - AF News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Education became my life. I realised this was something that I could do for myself and something that could not be taken away from me. I went to TAFE which lead to nursing training at Lidcombe Hospital. It was a pragmatic decision on my part; I was housed, fed three square meals a day and would be paid! My nursing qualification became the springboard for all that has come since and I still consider that to be the pinnacle of my learning. Nursing training was quite strict in those days and I learnt the value of empathy, respect, doing the job well, being methodical and being on time. They taught us and taught us really, really well. While the Nursing Hospital is long gone, it instilled a thirst for knowledge. It was such a small training institution, but it instilled a thirst for knowledge. A remarkable number of graduates from Lidcombe have gone on to significant academic careers’. Lisa went on to gain her PhD in Medicine; she is an Epidemiologist, counsellor, prominent researcher and advocate in Indigenous health. She sits on many professional boards, is a tenured Professor, has given countless addresses and has even briefed the House of Commons in London. One would be forgiven to think that this was a professional life packed to the rafters. Not so for Lisa. Military service remained a long held dream. ‘My father and grand-father served in the military. I had a great Uncle die on the shores of Gallipoli. I felt the values learnt very early in my nursing days would ‘fit’ with those of the Air Force and was incredibly excited when I finally succeeded in joining the Air Force as a Specialist Reserve Epidemiologist’. Photo: images.defence.gov.au/20140325raaf8540620_0070 From left: Director, Directorate of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Affairs, GPCAPT Lisa Jackson Pulver AM, Commander CSG AIRCDRE Timothy Innes, Wardaman People Elders, Uncle Bill Harney, and Jessie Brown, SADFO RAAF Tindal, WGCDR Mark Larter and 'CO No.75 Squadron WGCDR Pete Mitchell. On March 25, Defence celebrated an Indigenous land use agreement with the Wardaman Traditional Owners of Delamere Range at the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Cultural Centre in Katherine, Northern Territory. That was nine years ago this year. In a stellar military career, GPCAPT Jackson Pulver was promoted to set-up the Directorate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs. The Directorate assists Air Force to meet Government initiatives to ‘close the gap’ and promotes Air Force as an employer of choice for First Australians. ‘We are reaching across all of Air Force. It is heartening to see traditional greetings, such as Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country become part of the everyday fabric of Air Force life. Both RAAF Base Wagga and Williamtown have collaborated with local communities and now each Base has permanent signage which acknowledges the traditional owners of the land. We have plans afoot for other bases to allow similar acknowledgement. 2 Photo: GPCAPT Jackson Pulver, AM Lisa Jackson Pulver enjoys painting and drawing in what she calls her ‘spare time’. News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 We have conducted the first specialist pathway recruitment Program at RAAF Base Wagga and I am delighted to say that we have graduates from that program completing training right now. We have a specialised Undergraduate Program and have forged all important links with Indigenous communities across the country. We are helping to create and foster an environment in Air Force where people are more and more comfortable with declaring their cultural identity. We provide specialist advice to all levels of Air Force, we have the first Indigenous Elder in the ADF, Uncle Harry Allie (WOFF R’td) and we provide Air Force with the strategic direction for future activities. We will continue to grow and all work towards the milestones that will allow Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people to be accurately represented in our Air Force’. When asked if she has achieved what she has set out to do within her Directorate, GPCAPT Jackson Pulver is quite forthright, ‘Not yet’ is her quick response. While she is very positive about the goals achieved to date, she believes there is much more to do in terms of greater engagement and practical initiatives, within the Air Force, the ADF and the wider community. Photo: GPCAPT Lisa Pulver Jackson, AM GPCAPT Lisa Pulver Jackson, AM. Proudly wears the Air Force General Purpose Uniform. GPCAPT Jackson Pulver believes the recent unveiling of the Worimi F/A-18A Hornet at the International Avalon Air Show is a significant milestone. In unveiling the aircraft, CAF told the crowd, ‘This initiative expresses Air Force’s commitment to embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and contribution. Air Force values the diversity of all our people, and this aircraft is a way to recognise Indigenous inclusion in a significant way’. Through Indigenous art, Air Force has acknowledged the past and current service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, with particular reference to the Worimi, traditional owners of the land on which RAAF Base Williamtown now sits. The aircraft also displays the pilot markings of the first known Aboriginal pilot in our service, Len Waters. A Directorate of Indigenous Affairs initiative, GPCAPT Jackson Pulver sees this very public acknowledgement as a litmus test of the Air Force commitment to inclusiveness. ’So far the response has only been overwhelmingly positive. We will continue to back this very public acknowledgement with further practical steps to prove that we mean what we say’. 3 Photo: CPL Melina Young. Defence Image No: 20140417 DGPERS-AF AIRCDRE Bob Rodgers is presented the Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island Affairs – Air Force medallion by participant on the Indigenous Youth Program Jasmine Ellis and GPCAPT Jackson Pulver. The RAAF Indigenous Youth Program is an important component of the Air Force commitment towards Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians coming together. News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 While GPCAPT Jackson Pulver continues to manage her Directorate, she has placed her tenured academic position with the University of New South Wales on hold, to take up an invitation to join students from Australia, Asia-Pacific region, Europe and North America at the Centre for Defence and Strategic Studies (CDSS), the senior educational institution of the Australian Defence Force. Some of her blended family was shocked by her acceptance and her continued drive and passion for education, others in her closeknit group were not at all surprised – they understand her search for knowledge and her desire to be of service. Lisa herself is excited by the opportunity to mix with what she described as ‘thousands of years worth of combined military experience’ which she believes will enhance her future contributions to Air Force. When not engaged in her many professional responsibilities, you might find Lisa busy in the kitchen or with a brush in hand. She loves cooking, painting, drawing and has recently undertaken a course in Chi running, which assists runners to change their technique to reduce and prevent the likelihood of injury. Lisa reckons her one on one training session was the best investment she has made in a long time! Photo: GPCAPT Jackson Pulver, AM GPCAPT Jackson Pulver and niece Dominique soaking up the scene at the Yarbon Festival in January. When asked if she would like a final word, Lisa explained, ‘so many people in the past few years have asked me “Why Air Force, is not being in the military contradictory to Aboriginal culture”? It is not. The ceremony, the rituals, the rules and respect in Air Force is no different from those in community. It is not contradictory, rather, complimentary – both provides opportunity for a real sense of purpose and the ultimate act of service to country, which is so important to my Air Force family and my Aboriginal community’. Photo: GPCAPT Jackson Pulver, AM Relaxing and employing Chi running skills. 4 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Recognising Excellence in Service … SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. While one is a relative newcomer, with eight years in the Specialist Reserves and the other is a veteran of 50 years service, Air Force has formally recognised two very different, but outstanding Reserve Officers. Both WGCDR Richard Bluck, AM, RFD and FLTLT Daniel Mendoza-Jones have been recognised for their significant contribution to both the Air Force team and contributing to the solid reputation Air Force Reserve members enjoy in the wider community… WGCDR Richard Bluck, AM, RFD recently was awarded a CAF Gold Commendation and FLTLT Daniel Mendoza-Jones was awarded a Commander Air Mobility Group Commendation, both for outstanding Service and commitment. Regular readers will recall an article regarding WGCDR Bluck’s long career in a past edition of News Breakers. Since joining the Air Cadets at school to his current role within DGRES-AF, Richard has made significant contribution to the development of the Reserves. Back then, he was quoted as saying, ‘I have blue in my blood’, and the blue is obviously still running! While Richard joined as an Intelligence Officer, after his Squadron ceased the ASW role, his formal Photo: SQNLDR Mendoza-Jones education (degrees in Commerce and Education and a Master of Administration) led him to change to Commander Air Mobility Group, AIRCDRE Warren McDonald, Training Systems Officer (formally Education Officer). CSC presents SQNLDR Mendoza-Jones his commendation With his skills, Richard has contributed to Service citation. education reviews, addressed gaps in policy and procedures, produced prize winning essays and revamped Commander’s Guides. He previously was awarded a Silver Commendation in 1990, for his work as Deputy Director of Reserves – Air Force. In such diverse roles as Executive Officer or Deputy Director, Richard always has promoted a common theme – the advancement of Reserve members into an integrated Air Force team of both full-time and part-time members. Richard understands that being a Reservist is not just simply about those few hours/days you might devote to your Service role, he understands the influence is much broader than that. Walking the talk, Richard also has served as an Honorary ADC to the State Governor of Victoria, over 35 years of voluntary service, serving no fewer than eight Governors in a manner stated in the citation 'which exemplified and enhanced the values and professionalism for which the Air Force is recognised and respected’. 5 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 This devotion to Service was formally recognised by CAF through the award of a Gold Commendation, recently presented by DGRES-AF, AIRCDRE John Hewitson, AM and GPCAPT Carl Schiller CSM. Richard explains that the Governors ‘seemed to like me and I regarded this as another opportunity to remind diverse stakeholders that there is an Air Force Reserve'. FLTLT Daniel Mendoza-Jones, Legal Officer, is in his eighth year in the Specialist Reserve. Working in a large corporate law firm specialising in corporate and commercial law, Daniel was attracted by an interest in being of service to the ADF and broadening his work experience. Photo: GPCAPT Schiller, CSM Initially engaged to work as a consultant for a specialist project for the Service Chiefs, now known as DGRES-AFAIRCDRE John Hewitson, AM awards a CAF Gold the ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre Daniel commendation to WGCDR Bluck in recognition of his years of voluntary service to a succession of Victorian State Governors. now works within Headquarters Air Mobility Group where he was recognised for his outstanding contribution. Daniel is clearly not about what the service can do for him. He explains, ‘My work in the Reserve has been an important part of my legal practice. Being able to become involved as a trusted adviser in such a wide range of military legal work has been very rewarding. I think that being able to be of meaningful service either to the ADF or to individual members satisfies an important aspect of being a lawyer which can sometimes be missed by just operating in the corporate environment’. Acting as legal adviser to HQ Air Mobility Group, Daniel has been involved in a range of contract negotiations relating to KC-30, C-130J, B300 platforms and supporting technology. He acts as legal adviser to Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division in the development of the Youth Policy Manual and regularly assists in a teaching role on the Corporal Promotion Course at RAAF Richmond as well as the usual roles of Inquiry Officer and providing legal advice to his unit, regardless of rank. While balancing Reserve commitments with his civilian work and personal life is a challenge, Daniel thrives in the flexibility and advantages Reserve work offers, ‘the RAAF demonstrated excellent flexibility in allowing me to continue my Reserve work remotely while I was recently living in the United States for a year. I also enjoy working closely with some of the best lawyers in Sydney who are my colleagues on the RAAFSR Sydney Legal Panel’. While the Air Force has formally recognised Daniel, he believes the benefits are two-fold. ‘My work as a RAAFSR legal officer has certainly benefited me as a civilian lawyer. My recent concentration on providing advice in ADF procurement contract negotiations has meant that I have needed to apply my essential corporate and commercial legal skills to completely different environments, such as military capability and strategy, which has only strengthened those underlying legal skills’. 6 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 While Daniel was proud to receive his commendation, he is enthusiastic about the opportunities available, ‘I recently became involved in a protracted contract negotiation between Defence and an overseas aerospace industry supplier. It was fantastic to be able to assist in ultimately reaching a point where both parties were pleased with the proposed arrangement and that it complied with local laws and Defence policy. In particular, the Air Force was very happy with being able to secure the extra capability. It was great to have played a small role’. It is not just the buzz of contract negotiations that interest Daniel, he was also very proud to represent Air Force as guest speaker at a local High School Speech Day. Daniel’s interests in Air Force and his versatility no doubt contributed to the recognition of his ability to provide superior legal advice for ‘many and varied legal matters’ as cited in his commendation. Congratulations WGCDR Bluck and FLTLT Mendoza-Jones! 7 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Award of the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy - Recognising Excellence at No 23 (City of Brisbane) Squadron… SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor with assistance from LAC Raddie 23SQN Unit Historian and Mr Dave Dodds and Mr George Hatchman, 23SQN Association. Ron Newitt worked at 23 (City of Brisbane) Squadron way back in the fifties. He left such a legacy in the Engineering world that the Squadron’s Association paid tribute to Ron through the establishment of the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy and a library of Ron’s technical books donated by family and housed in the Sergeants Mess. Originally confined to Engine Fitters, the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy is now a contemporary award which recognises excellence within any mustering across the Squadron. Enter FSGT Tracey Geissmann. Personnel Capability Specialist, FSGT Tracey Geissmann has clocked up 29 years of Service in the Air Force in a mix of permanent service, full time contracts and Reserve service. Tracey has worked in many diverse roles throughout her career. She has been a Senior Operations Officer, Visits Coordinator, Orderly Room SNCO during the transition to the Super Hornet and a HR specialist providing support to a Health Services. She provided the inaugural administrative support to the Heron aircraft and is home on a weapons range, qualified and experienced as both a Weapons Instructor and Range Safety Supervisor. Photo: WGCDR Simon Nickson, 23SQN It is no surprise then, that this woman of many talents has recently been recognised for her current role; Deployment Co-ordinator, Prohibited Substance and Alcohol Tester, Physical Fitness Testing Liaison Officer and Unit Training Co-ordinator through the award of the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy. Former CO 23SQN, WGCDR Simon Nickson, presents FSGT Tracey Geissmann with the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy. Tracey is a real example of the flexibility of an Air Force career. She originally transferred to the Reserves to allow her two adult children, Jake and Jayde stability in education. That achieved, she served in a full-time capacity once again, until the birth of her youngest child, two year old Kapri. Tracey explains, ‘Being a Reservist gives the flexibility required for a healthy work/life balance and to be part of the ADF in an integrated work environment of both permanent and Reserve members. I have the ability to meet the needs of my family and yet be part of the ADF family’. Asked about her career highlights to date, it is obvious that the ‘human element’ is what stands out for Tracey. Tracey explains, ‘While I was posted to Amberley I received a letter from an elderly man, a former Royal New Zealand Air Force pilot. 8 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 He had “knowingly purloined/stolen” a khaki slouch hat – in 1957 while on his way through Amberley on his way to Singapore to fly Venoms during the Malaysian confrontation. Some 50 years later he wanted to return it to its rightful owner. After some research, I located the owner from a service number inside the hat and was able to have the hat returned to its delighted owner. I was also close at hand during the F-111 incident when the wheel came off, gaining a front row seat as I escorted the media to cover the extraordinary aircraft landing. Working as a Senior Operations Officer also gave me the opportunity to meet so many different people and organisations. A stand-out for me will always be a visit by the Endeavour Foundation members and their carers, I will never forget the look on the kids faces as they enjoyed a disco at the Airmens Club! I met Parliamentarians, Attaché staff, foreign nationals, VIPs to the Base and people from local schools, Probus and Rotary clubs’. Not confining her skills to primary tasks, Tracey is also a committed volunteer who has served on Mess Committees for over a decade and has been heavily involved in the coordination of Air Force Week and Christmas Treat celebrations. Equally at home handling a weapon to handling a party – this previously recognised Flight Sergeant is a worthy recipient of the Ron Newitt Memorial Trophy. Photo: 23SQN Reserve Association Mr Dave Dodds, 23SQN Associate, Nicole McCosker (Ron Newitt’s daughter) his son in law Darryl McCosker, the PMC of the time, Mr Snide President of 23SQN Association and Ron’s grandchildren at the presentation of Ron’s technical publications to the library collection. 9 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Reservists Help the Watchers – 92WG by Wing Commander Richard Bluck, Reserve Branch. No 92 Wing is part of the Surveillance and Response Group (SRG) and is responsible for a suite of capabilities – anti-submarine, ship strike, Fleet support, Maritime/Overland ISR, as well as search and rescue operations across Australia’s large area of responsibility. A range of Reserve members contribute to fulfilling 92WG’s motto of ‘Watch and Ward’. GPCAPT Phil Champion, OC 92WG says ‘we don't distinguish our Reserves as Reserves, as they are so integrated into our daily business that they are just part of our capability. They also are the key part of our capability transition team who are managing the introduction into service of the P8 aircraft being delivered under project Air 7000. We rely on our Reserve workforce heavily and they never fail to deliver in many critical areas’. In this article we meet a sample of three of 92WG’s Reservists and hear something of their stories and how they assist the people who operate one of the hardest working aircraft in the Air Force – the AP-3C Orion - through their activities in safety, engineering and administration. SQNLDR Peter (‘Bong’) Nelson Peter joined the RAN as an Observer in 1977 and flew in the Grumman ‘Tracker’ aboard the aircraft carrier HMAS MELBOURNE, which he describes as a ‘hoot! (strange sense of humour!!). He then re-trained as a Pilot and flew rotary wing aircraft, including the venerable ‘Huey’, Wessex and Sea King. After 20 years in the Navy he flew four years as a civilian offshore, then as an EMS chopper pilot before joining the RAAF in 2000, to fly the Orion for 12 years before moving to the Active Reserve in November 2012. Over the years he was involved in regular deployments to Butterworth (OP GATEWAY), Gulf War 1 (with RN Commando SQN), Gulf War 2, the UN-led Combined Maritime Force based in Bahrain to counter piracy in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Oman, which he describes ‘as very interesting during the period of the ‘Arab Spring’! For Peter’s last five years in the PAF he was Wing Aviation Safety Officer (WASO) managing an effective Aviation Safety Management System (ASMS) and travelling wherever the Orion was deployed, on exercise or operations, to conduct aviation safety assessments. This included returning to the MEAO to assist with audits in 2010 and 2011. Peter was attracted to the Reserve ‘to maintain contact with the Wing; to continue my passion for aviation safety and, after decades of service, to maintain the sense that I’m doing something useful for the country’. Photo: SQNLDR Nelson SQNLDR Nelson alongside a HS816 SQN Seahawk during a FAA safety management review. 10 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Since being in the Reserve Peter has continued to contribute – assisting the current 92 WG WASO across a range of tasks and monitoring trends; assisting with an HQAC safety audits at 34SQN, conducted aviation safety culture assessments for two RAN FAA squadrons and being a facilitator for the joint Airservices/ADF air traffic control safety forum and for the DDAAFS Aviation Safety Facilitator Courses regularly held in Canberra. ‘I really enjoy facilitating for the new breed of aviation safety practitioners. As I’ve been around the block a few times and have had an incredibly diverse and interesting aviation career, students like to have a dig at me as being the resident ‘old fart!’ Peter’s passion and enthusiasm flow through to his community engagements as a volunteer across a diverse range of organisations – AFL, cricket, animal welfare and various community-centred charities. ‘I get a real kick out of feeding the homeless during my “Fred’s Van” program participation. I volunteered to be Team Leader for the Christmas Eve and New Years Eve meals and also the Adelaide “CEO Sleepout Meals”. He recently has applied to become an Assistant Team Leader for the OPERATION FLINDERS charity that was started by an Army officer and seeks to point wayward teenagers in the right direction with a bit of teambased tough love - and outback trekking! He also gives motivational and goal-setting presentations to secondary school students in Adelaide as part of a State Government program. Photo: SQNLDR Nelson One of these characters is ‘Bong’ Nelson during a DDAAFS Safety Facilitator Course! ‘Both my military and civil activities seem to compliment each other in some way. I didn’t expect this to be the case though. My Reserve work allows me to keep in touch with current aviation safety practices, which I can use in my public speaking. Because my volunteering duties are so different to my Reserve work, I enjoy switching between the two as I feel refreshed for each when I do’ Peter says. Peter’s supervisor SQNLDR Adam Robinson, WASO, 92WG comments ‘SQNLDR Nelson's Reservist capacity and contribution are a valued part of the 92WG Aviation Safety Management System. Having the previous incumbent's experience to draw upon can help prevent “reinventing the wheel”, or implementing strategies that may have been tried and discounted in the past. 92WG has achieved a remarkably stable WASO incumbency over many years; this is aided by Peter's continuation as a Reservist. Also, Peter's broader experience in both Navy and DDAAFS safety facilitation steadies the ship, so to speak, and his capacity to turn work around frees me up for other tasking, not that the inbox is ever empty! 11 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 SQNLDR Mark Ingham SQNLDR Mark Ingham is the Reserve Senior Engineering Officer (Reserve SENGO) with No 10 Squadron, having spent the past three decades immersed in the world of P3 Orion maritime operations he now works alongside the PAF SENGO as a technical resource. Originally a RADTECH (Air) he worked on Mirages at Williamtown and Butterworth and on P-3Cs at Edinburgh. Commissioned in 1988 he returned to Edinburgh in 1992. In 1999 he discharged from the PAF after 24 years of service and moved to the Standby Reserve, returning four years later to the Active Reserve. He came back ‘for the fantastic camaraderie and mateship of Service life, to keep up- to-date and to have past training and experience well used. I get a kick out of mentoring.’ The constant travel and challenges inherent in maritime operations continued into his Reserve activities. He does at least one deployment a year, sometimes two (OP RESOLUTE) and a tour in the MEAO in 2009. Mark relishes the ‘good challenge of maintaining his required endorsements and authorities as a SENGO to sustain usefulness to the Wing.’ Photo: SQNLDR Mark Ingham SQNLDR Mark Ingham at work in SENGO’s MEAO office. His full-time employment with Airbus Group Australia Pacific also involves P3 support. Mark explains, ‘I get to enjoy the engineering and maintenance challenges in two complimentary cultures. Thankfully Airbus is a very Reserve supportive employer’. Mark’s other challenge ’is balancing civil and military time allocations as there are many PAF requests for potential involvements.’ He regards himself ‘as very fortunate having the best of both worlds, which is professionally and personally very rewarding.’ WGCDR Russell Barton, Mark’s former supervisor at 92WG, said ‘SQNLDR Mark Ingham brings a wealth of experience to the 92WG AMO and he is able to make a significant leadership contribution within the AMO to maximise AP-3C capability. Executives in the 92WG AMO are often deployed, whilst a significant maintenance tempo remains at home base and away. Mark's contribution at home base or to a deployed environment allows the 92WG AMO to maximise productivity safely. The knowledge that Mark brings form his day job in industry supporting the AP-3C is extremely useful as a reservist SENGO’. 12 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 SQNLDR Jonathan Miller Barrister Jonathan Miller migrated from Scotland to Australia in 2002 and enlisted in the Specialist Reserve in 2008. He acted in his civilian capacity for a serving member charged with an offence and the solicitor was the Legal Panel Leader in South Australia who encouraged Jonathan to apply – ‘it didn’t take too much encouragement’, he says. ‘From the legal perspective I look after member’s interests – the challenges are many and varied. Working at unit and wing levels with legal issues that have a real practical impact at both AOSG and 92WG has been very rewarding, as have two Inquiries for CDF’. ‘I have been very struck by the immense lengths commanders go to “to do the right thing” especially when it comes to members under their command,’ Jonathan comments. In his civil role at the Bar he likes ‘being able to assist people and their families through some very dark times (and occasionally some happy ones), keeping people out of prison or bankruptcy or obtaining just compensation’. After completing the Specialist Reserve Familiarisation Course, Jonathan volunteered to complete the full Officer Training School Active Reserve Initial Officer Course to be better prepared for his duties. This commitment has paid off as in some periods he has been working in almost a full time capacity. Currently he is studying for his Masters Degree with ANU and also is involved with the Red Cross Committee for International Humanitarian Law. Photo: SQNLDR Jonathan Miller SQNLDR Jonathan Miller – a very active SR lawyer. He enjoys the flexibility of Reserve service which dovetails neatly with his work in the courts. ‘I really enjoy the camaraderie of the ADF and also being part of perhaps the most advanced military in the world, in terms of compliance with International Humanitarian Law’. 92WG’s Legal Officer FLTLT Anthony Erman says ‘SQNLDR Miller's contribution to the 92WG legal capability has been invaluable. Through his civil and military legal experience, he has been able to provide robust support to the 92WG command legal officer, the Adelaide legal reserve panel and to the RAAF more generally’. These Reservists are but three of the rich mix to be found in 92WG. They reflect the great benefits to Air Force of being able access the fantastic diversity of past training and experience (both military and civil) though proactive and effective use of the Reserve workforce component. Photo: SQNLDR Jonathan Miller Photo: SQNLDR Jonathan Miller A happy Active Reserve JOIC graduation – spot the Scottish lawyer! 13 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 The Best of both worlds – Air Force Gap Year Employment Opportunities now open… SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. A small, but enthusiastic team, headed by SQNLDR Caroline Godfrey, is hard at work in response to a current Government commitment to reintroduce ADF Gap Year opportunities for young Australians from 17 to 24 years of age. SQNLDR Godfrey explains, ‘in response to this commitment, Air Force has introduced a revitalised Gap Year Program. We have 55 young people currently undertaking recruit training at Wagga. Once they graduate from Wagga, they will move to RAAF Base Amberley to undertake a further 12 weeks of training at RAAFSFS. This will be followed by a five month posting to a SECFOR unit where they will be employed in force protection duties’. While the first round of opportunities was confined to the Air Base Protection mustering, the 2016 program has 120 positions available and will expand to also include Personnel Capability Specialists, Supply and Crew Attendant. Photo: images.defence.gov.au/20150217raaf8157095_113. A Gap Year recruit participates in a Camouflage and Concealment training lesson at RAAF Base Wagga. SQNLDR Godfrey believes Gap Year offers the best of both worlds, ‘Gap Year provides a really good insight into our Air Force, our people, the job roles and the life style. The training is structured. A Gap Year participant undertakes exactly the same training as a permanent member, which means if they elect to join the PAF they only have to undertake the training applicable to their chosen career. There is no repetition as there has been in previous Gap Year programs. If they decide to move on, they have had an incredible opportunity to learn new skills which will benefit them in their civilian employment or they have the opportunity to stay on as a Reserve member with a guaranteed position and allocation of days for a five year period. I imagine this will be particularly attractive to those who decide to undertake tertiary studies, knowing they have a reliable source of income throughout the period of their tertiary studies’. 14 Photo: Cut-above Productions A Gap Year recruit abseils from the tower at RAAF Base Wagga. News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 As Officer in Charge of Air Force Gap Year, SQNLDR Godfrey is supported by a Ground Defence Officer, one full time and one Reserve Personnel Capability Specialist. The role of the Air Force Gap Year Flight is to manage and facilitate the integration of the Air Force program and provide support to both Gap Year participants and their relevant unit Commander. In a recent visit to RAAF Base Wagga, Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert said he was delighted to announce the ADF Gap Year program will return in 2016 with more places being made available in the Army and Air Force. He explained, ‘The expansion of the ADF Gap Year means more young Australians will be able to experience life in the ADF where they will gain important professional and life skills, all while being paid a salary and serving our great country. The program provides a positive experience for young people who might be considering a career in the ADF but are uncertain about a long term commitment. It has also proven to be very popular with young women, who represent almost a quarter of all the current ADF Gap Year members.' Photo: images.defence.gov.au/S20150362 On the 17th of February 2015 the Assistant Minister for Defence, The Hon Stuart Robert MP, met with Gap Year recruits at No 1 Recruit Training Unit (RAAF Base Wagga). He was accompanied on his visit by the Federal Member for Riverina, The Hon Michael McCormack MP. Those interested in learning about future Gap Year opportunities can do so by visiting www.defencejobs.gov.au, by phoning 13 19 01 or by visiting their local Defence Force Recruiting Centre Photo: Cut-above Productions Air Force Gap Year trainees receiving Physical Training Instruction. Photo: Cut-above Productions Going through their paces – trainees grimace as their physical fitness is tested. 15 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Calling all Corporals interested in an exciting opportunity… SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. Do you like a challenge? Do you like new experiences involving travel? You could be the ideal candidate for the Tasman Scheme – a two-week fully funded secondment with the Royal New Zealand Air Force. If this sounds like you, read on… Nominations are being called for the Tasman Scheme, a two-week, fully funded secondment with the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). If you are a Reserve member of corporal rank, with a minimum of three years in service, you are eligible to apply. The Tasman Scheme is a Bilateral Personnel Activity between the ADF and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). The Scheme is a joint initiative of Defence, through Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division (CRESD), and the Defence Reserves Association (DRA). The Scheme seeks to reward selected ADF Reserve JNCOs for their overall performance, dedication and commitment to Reserve service and to promote interoperability between the ADF and NZDF. Within the Tasman Scheme, JNCOs of the ADF Reserves are seconded to a NZDF unit with travel costs (between New Zealand and Australia) and Reserve Service Day (RSD) salaries funded by Defence. As host, the NZDF will provide Service accommodation, meals and internal domestic travel during the 14-day secondment. In a similar manner, JNCOs of the NZDF Reserves are seconded to an ADF unit. This strengthens the ties between the two countries and, in turn, enhances the capability the ADF and NZDF derive from their Reserves. MAJGEN Iain Spence, Head CRESD, enthusiastically prompts individuals to come forward and Commanding Officers to progress applications. He explains: ‘The Tasman Scheme offers its participants a unique and rewarding experience. As we commemorate the centenary of ANZAC, deserving JNCO’s will gain a deeper understanding of our shared history through working alongside our Tasman neighbours.’ Applications close on 31 March 2015 Defence Form AE 350—Tasman Scheme Nomination. Further details of the scheme can be found in DEFGRAM 633/2014 (Issue Date 11 November 2014) or Military Personnel Manual Chapter 2, Part 8—Tasman Scheme, or www.defencereservessupport.gov.au 16 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 From Emergency Department to Aero Medical Evacuation… SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. You may ask what the common ground is between the Emergency Department at the sizeable regional hospital of Gympie, Queensland and a military exercise in Malaysia and Singapore. The common ground is SQNLDR Danny O’Neill, Emergency Nurse Practitioner and Specialist Reserve member of No 3 Aero medical Evacuation Squadron DET Amberley… A former British Army Nursing Officer, Danny O’Neill and his wife were attracted to the lifestyle changes a move to Australia could provide. With a military nursing history it was natural Danny would be attracted to a similar role in Australia. Nine years ago Danny joined our ranks as a Specialist Reserve Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, Danny’s higher level training authorises him to function autonomously and collaboratively in an advanced and extended clinical role. He is qualified to conduct assessments and manage patients using nursing knowledge and skills, including the direct referral of patients to other health care professionals, prescribing medications and ordering diagnostic investigations. Danny loves the symmetry between his civilian role as an Emergency Department Senior Nurse Practitioner at Gympie hospital and his role with Air Force at RAAF Base Amberley. Danny explains, ’My skills and experience in the civilian world compliment my role in the Air Force and vice versa. I have the ability to use my advance practice skills and knowledge in the military setting further adding to RAAF health capability on Aero Medical Evacuations (AMEs) and other health officer roles. My military medical experience for example helps within my civilian practice using my military aeromedical knowledge to assist patients for transfer from our facility for definitive care ‘. Photo: Air Force Image Gallery 20141016raaf8526964_0054 SQNLDR Daniel O'Neill, No. 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron Nursing Officer, provides support to a deployed ADF member on Exercise Bersama Lima 2014. Late last year, Danny took part in Exercise BERSAMA LIMA 2014, a Headquarters Integrated Area Defence System (HQIADS) led, regional multilateral exercise held in Malaysian and Singaporean airspace. Operating under the direction of the Five Power Defence Arrangements composed of representatives from each of the five member nations; Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom, Exercise BERSAMA LIMA, was an exciting platform for SQNLDR O’Neill to utilise his civilian and military qualifications. ‘I provided medical support in the health centre to the combined exercise at RMAF Butterworth. This included liaising with the Royal Air Force and Malaysian Air Force medical services. I also liaised with the local Malaysian hospital to support ongoing care of patients and helped to advise and support current health planning during the Exercise. I was also called upon to undertake an AME from a neighbouring country and conducted the AME of a ADF post-operative trauma patient which 17 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 required the extensive use of my specialist knowledge and experience to facilitate and undertake the evacuation’. My Reserve role and my civilian role provide me with a diversity of experiences and challenges, but at the same time allow me to draw on my experiences from the civilian and military sector’. When Danny is not filling his busy role at Gympie hospital or practising as a Specialist Reserve officer, you may find him bush walking or running and spending time with his wife and two young daughters. Danny believes his civilian and military roles give him the best of both worlds! At the time of going to print, SQNLDR O'Neill has deployed on Operation Pacific Assist, the ADF whole of government response to the devastation in Vanuatu following Tropical Cyclone Pam. Photo: Air Force Image Gallery 20100625ran8106603_044 Danny O’Neill assists a patient at Andong Thma school medical clinic during Pacific Partnership. Photo: SQNLDR Danny O'Neill SQNLDR Danny O'Neill poses with a RAF Typhoon of Number 1(Fighter) Squadron on Exercise Bersama Shield 2013. Photo: Air Force Image Gallery 20150318raaf8540638_0141 Aero-Medical Evacuation Squadron personnel monitor a patient being evacuated on board a C-130J Hercules during Operation Pacific Assist. SQNLDR O’Neill is currently on Operation Pacific Assist. 18 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Training for Capability Snakes, Crooks & Training Governance by WGCDR Richard Bluck, Reserve Branch The delivery of efficient and effective learning and development for both operational and capability support environments is critical for achieving Air Force goals. Training Systems Officers (TSOs) manage the Air Force Training System applying education and training system expertise to ensure the quality, governance and compliance of the system is maintained, within a culture of continuous improvement. TSOs are engaged across all employment groups, and in all cross-FEG and intra-FEG training. One of the Reserve TSOs contributing to this process is FLTLT Rachel Waters who is posted to Combat Survival Training School (CSTS) in Townsville. Rachel also contributes to the Training Governance Team for the Director General Technical Airworthiness Branch-ADF (DGTAADF) in Melbourne. CSTS provides training to prepare ADF aircrew for isolating incidents in permissive and non-permissive settings. Reflecting the key elements of Survive-Evade-Resist-Escape, a suite of courses encompass: survival principles and priorities, personal skills and adapting to diverse environments such as sea, sea coast, desert, jungle and cold weather. Photo: FLTLT Rachel Waters SQNLDR Ashley Hill, Commanding Officer, notes ‘CSTS is a Reserve heavy Slippery police work but not yet CSTS unit with some 60% of staff RAAFAR and it has robust Reserve management ‘bush tucker’! planning to maximise the Reservist’s contribution to unit productivity. CSTS’s pool of Reservists includes experienced aircrew, communications and survival members, from both Air Force and Army. We operate as a fully integrated workforce. Students would not know who is a Reservist and who is PAF.’ Rachel Waters has served in both the NSW and Queensland Police Forces, her current role being a Police Prosecutor in Townsville. She enjoys ‘the dynamic and challenging nature of the police role, making a difference for the community as well as getting on top of the intricacies of our legislation’. Her original qualification was a BA in Languages – mainly Japanese, which she admits is now a bit rusty. Afterwards she completed a Diploma in Education and then finished a Masters in Education whilst completing her Police Academy studies. Still learning, Rachel currently is studying for a Law degree. Since joining the Reserve in 2006, seeking ‘further personal and professional growth’, Rachel has been involved in a range of activities including the provision of training support for CSTS and a secondary strand contributing to the evolution of training governance and instructions for the Training Management System within DGTA-ADF. She likes ‘the contrast from her civilian world and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines…always learning and gaining new experiences… the intellectual challenges of the TSO category and the esprit de corps in the ADF’. She is less keen about the flood of Defence acronyms! 19 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Rachael says ’my civil and military roles compliment each other. My outlook has been broadened by both roles and I am able to approach situations with a wider perspective on people, their roles, responsibilities, expectations and professional integrity’. Attitude and handling of stress are absolutely vital elements for successful combat survival and Rachel’s police experience has prepared her well for understanding this aspect of CSTS’s activities. ‘One of the main challenges of policing can be protecting oneself against the negative emotions that can develop though constant contact with victims, violent offenders and traumatic/significant incidents. It’s a role which requires a regime to maintain both physical and mental health. We often talk about our stories and how we become inured to the extreme nature of many situations…including the use of dark humour to deal with these challenges’. Another crossover in roles is the exposure to reptiles and rodents which seem to appear frequently in frontline policing (not the courtroom!) and as potential fodder at CSTS. Queensland Police are very supportive of Rachel’s Reserve involvement. Photo: FLTLT Rachel Waters FLTLT Rachel Waters TSO at CSTS. SQNLDR Hill said ‘FLTLT Waters tasks predominately are in the creation of documents in TSO language. Recently she has supported development of PMKeyS reportable proficiencies and creation of the TMP for the new Aircrew Combat SERE C course. Rachel is unique compared to the other Reservists here because she was never in the PAF’. Rachel's work with Training Management Services within DGTA-ADF started when she was living in Melbourne. The first TSO in the Directorate, she commenced the somewhat daunting task of setting up a framework for the governance of their many education and training activities. Returning to Queensland, Rachel continued doing governance-related work from far-off Townsville. She currently is updating material relating to the Diploma of Quality Auditing which is an activity ideally suited to remote work at which she is most adept. Rachel’s specialist TSO knowledge is invaluable to the Training Governance team within DGTA-ADF and is enabling the team to implement some significant improvements. SQNLDR Darrell Robinson, Training Governance Manager, DGTAADF, DAVREG (TMS), says ‘Having a Reservist with education expertise in the Training Governance cell is enabling the cell to meet its obligations to its customers in a timely and efficient manner. Rachel is able to take on specific tasks that otherwise could not be done by the on-site personnel. Her willingness and positive attitude towards the education and training function, together with her expertise are proving to be a great asset to DGTA-ADF’. Rachel represents yet another example of a talented person with diverse experience adding to Air Force capability as a Direct Entry member via the Active Reserve. Photo: FLTLT Rachel Waters TSO Rachel Waters on the job. 20 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Breakers' Briefs CAF Symposium and Australian International Air Show In conjunction with the Air Show the Chief of the Air Force hosted a Symposium which was attended by delegations from some 25 international Air Forces. The theme of the Symposium was Strategic Perspectives of an Integrated Air Environment, with senior speakers from Australia and overseas. The Australian International Air Show 2015 again was a major gathering of Australian and foreign industry exhibitors and interest groups, together with diverse static displays and some impressive flying displays of historical aircraft, military and civil, as well as many current military aircraft demonstrating their roles. The theme this show was ‘Heroes of the Air’ marking the centenary of Gallipoli and World War One. In both these significant aviation activities Reservists were heavily involved at all levels. If you were working at these events News Breakers would like to hear from you about your contribution, for possible use in future stories. Just contact the Editor at [email protected]. Interested in Joining the News Breakers Team? The News Breakers team is looking for some additional talent for both Editorial work (sourcing and writing stories) and also to assist with compilation and distribution aspects. This will enable the team capacity to handle peak loads and other duty commitments. If you have appropriate skill sets and experience and would like to be on our list of talent for use – then send an email to the Editor with a brief outline of your background and current Reserve involvement. Supplementary Employment Group (SEG) If you are a member serving in the SEG you should have seen, late in 2014, a CAF Message about some changes to improve management of the SEG which came into effect from 01 Dec 14. The main change dealt with the Reserve Service Day (RSD) Obligation for SEG members. CAF Message 51/14 SEG Management (Intranet only) Reserve Pay Slips Online Reserve members will no longer receive paper pay slips from pay day 23 April. Members without regular access to the DRN PSS can use the PSS Home Portal which provides secure internet access to view pay records and submit attendance diary claims. Similarly members can check and update personal details and emergency or next of kin contact details, via the PSS Home Portal. For more info contact your orderly room or the Defence Service Centre on 1 800 333 362 or email [email protected] 21 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Good Employer? Do you have a civil employer who is supportive of your Reserve activity? They may have amended rosters, given extra time for courses, released you at short notice for an urgent need, or just been very helpful over a long period. If so, consider getting the ADF to say ‘Thank You’ with an Employer Award, either plaque or Certificate of Appreciation. There are presentation events once a year in all States. For more information go to the CRESD website (Intranet only) or call your State DRSC office. 22 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Employment & Training Opportunities SQNLDR Kate Fox, Active Reserve, Editor. Air Force is offering two separate training and employment opportunities in Leadership Coaching and Conflict Coaching. Read on for details… Conflict Coaching Conflict is inevitable and has the potential to undermine our capability, diminish team cohesion, can lead to safety incidents and destroy relationships. Air Force recognises the importance of proactive early intervention in workplace behaviour issues to prevent escalation and to encourage low level resolution of issues, appropriate support to personnel and effective management of conflict. As a result Air Force is increasing its support to the whole of Defence dispute resolution program. Air Force is seeking expressions of interest to fill nine new Reserve positions in the dispute resolution program. The nine positions will complement the Air Force New Horizon program and Pathway to Change by improving organisational culture through improved management and early resolution of workplace conflict. Successful candidates will be trained as Conflict Coaches and will provide coaching support to Command and Defence personnel. The process to select the nine new Conflict Coach positions is: - Applicant to email [email protected]. Applicant will then be contacted by a staff member from Alternative Resolutions and Equity Technical Authority (ARE TA) to discuss their application. - Complete an application form at Alternative Resolutions and Equity Technical Authority (Panel Members): - Successful candidates panelled on a 5 day Conflict Management Coaching course. - Coaches undertake a minimum of four hours professional development with a Dispute Resolution Practitioner prior to a video assessment to meet Defence accreditation standards. To be eligible for selection candidates will be an Air Force Reserve member with a minimum rank of CPL, have the respect and trust of peers and command, a well developed sense of empathy, respect for confidentiality, patience, have respect for and be visibly committed to workplace behaviour principles, and have management approval to be released for training and conflict coaching work as required. They will also need to have a period of service remaining so that they can build experience and skill to deliver a high quality professional service within the program. The Defence dispute resolution program is jointly managed by the Directorate of Alternative Resolutions and Equity Technical Authority and the Directorate of Complaint Resolution. For more information: http://intranet.defence.gov.au/people/sites/ARE. For more information email [email protected] with the subject heading: Air Force Conflict Coaching. DO NOT DELAY - Applications are due at ARE TA no later than 31 Mar 15. 23 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Leadership Coaching Course Expressions of interest (EOI) are sought from both PAF and Reserve Members are sought for a Leadership Coaching Course that will take place at RAAF Glenbrook between 18 -22 May 15. The course is designed to support Leadership Development at all levels in Air Force. The course linked to the RAAF Core Values will not only focus leadership development but will aim to produce coaches who in turn assist other Air Force personnel be more effective and self aware. The Coaching Course will aim to directly support reform programs such as New Horizon and Project JERICHO. The course will be run by Open Door Coaching in consultation with Air Force Adaptive Culture and for successful candidates lead to a Cert IV in Workplace and Business Coaching. Once qualified, it is expected that PAF Members will provide 15 – 20 days coaching to other Air Force members per year. Reserve Members will be expected to provide in the region of 30 days coaching. While coaching may be offered to any Air Force Members the initial primary target for recipients of coaching will be GPCAPTs, regardless of placement in the ADO, EL2s in the Air Force Group, all COs and Administrative COs, Executive Warrant Officers and WGCDRs/SNCO in positions to influence the major Air Force Reform Programs. Therefore those applying for the RAAF Leadership Coaching Course should have outstanding interpersonal skills and be comfortable working with and able to assist high performing individuals become even better. Opportunities for further study may be available. Priority will be given to candidates (GPCAPT and below) who already hold coaching, mentoring, or facilitation skills accreditations or can demonstrate that they have over a period of time successfully coached others through a major change initiative. The selection process for any Senior Leadership Team Members wishing to be considered will be through the Star-Planning Process in consultation with DGPERS-AF. The closing date for EOIs is 13 Apr 15. Candidates should provide comment on any experience they have had either as a coach or receiving coaching and clearly state what they believe that they can bring to the role of an Air Force Coach. All EOIs must have comments from supervisors that include a candidate’s suitability and also comment on a candidate’s ability to meet the minimum number of coaching days each year (15-20 days for PAF and a minimum of 30 days for Reserve Members). Contact [email protected]/ or for those with access to intranet, the following link: RAAF Leadership Coaching 24 News Breakers – Air Force Reserve – March 2015 Breakers’ Mailbag Send Air Force Reserve News Breakers comments to the Editor: [email protected] I read with deep sadness the obituary for Group Captain Monty Smith. He is an indelible part of my many happy memories of my time in the RAAF PAF. As a Lateral Recruit (AERO) from the Canadian Forces and on my first parade at RAAF Base Richmond at Christmas 1996, the Inspecting Officer alighted from the car in full Santa Claus garb complete with roller blades and a bag of candy to hand out to the troops. One of the Flight Lieutenants behind me whispered “Struth, that’s Monty, that’s the bloody OC!” In Canada I had never learned to march with melting chocolate in my hand and to salute Santa Claus on the Dias! Monty was a true character who engendered loyalty and exuded friendship and I am proud to have shared a few pints with him. For an EQUIPO, Monty was alright! My condolences to his family and his many, many friends. Jim Kightley Canada AERO - Retired Russell et al, Once again, a terrific read, I knew Monty well from my time as STO at 27SQN and I’m sorry to hear of his death. As I prepare to retire from the RAAF Reserve (I’m told an extension to my CRA is unlikely) after 40 odd (and some were very odd) years I will miss the camaraderie and challenges. However a small compensation is the excellent News Breakers keeping us all in touch. I must say 99% of the reservists and PAF I worked with were marvellous and friendly people regardless of rank. The other one % is irrelevant. I heartily espouse the advantages of the RAAF Reserve to the young people I meet and hopefully you will continue to gain another generation of readers. Cheers Mel Dundas-Taylor SQNLDR INTEL P.S. Bring back the caption competition! Air Force Reserve News Breakers back issues visit DGRES-AF or Defence Reserve Support 25