april - may 10 - 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment Association

Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 1
TIGER TALES
END OF ERA FOR ARMY
APCs
Tiger Tales up
coming events
Binh Ba Day
The 5th Battalion is commemorating its biggest
battle of battles. The event will be on Sunday
the 6th of June 2010 for all members past and
present and their families and friends.
Proceedings commence at 10 o’clock and will
include lunch, children activities and
entertainment.
Tiger Sports
Captain Ruben Omaji wins his first
Official fight in Darwin.
Continued Page 11
Tiger of the Month
The 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment’s Delta Company deployed
from Robertson Barracks on exercise Southern Reach on the 6th of April
2010. The training was held in the Cultana training area in South Australia,
incorporated 10 and 11 Platoon to complete the final exercise using the
M113A1 (A1) armoured personnel carriers. Delta Company culminated
This months Tiger of the Month is
Corporal Dakin from Charlie
Company.
Continued Page 3
Tiger Cubs
This month we have two members
bring new tiger cubs to the
Battalion.
Continued Page10
their training with the Quintas Cup, a military competition testing basic
skills and drills of Infantry Soldiers. Exercise Southern Reach would
historically be the last exercise to operate the A1 carrier, in order to make
“We Are the Tiger Battalion”
room for the new variant M113AS4.
The A1 carrier has a long and proud history in the Australian Army since they were first introduced in 1965. After 45 years of service
to the nation and serving in theatres like Vietnam, Somalia, and East Timor. 5 RAR saw battle with these very carriers during the
battle of Binh Ba and again on operation’s in East Timor. It was thereby appropriate that 5 RAR was given the opportunity to exercise
these machines last before they return to Bandiana in Victoria for refit. Delta Company trained extensively on snap Vehicle Check
Point, Counter Improvised Explosive Device (IED) drills, Convoy, and Vital Point drills with the carriers in preparation for their
deployment to Afghanistan.
Continued Page 2
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 2
END OF ERA FOR ARMY APCs
The Section Commanders on the ground elaborated that “most drills were conducted successfully however; basic drills let some
individuals down, especially searching techniques in VP drills”. Over all, the Soldiers of Delta Company adapted well to their Mech
training and performed exceedingly well with their basic Infantry Minor Tactics.
Quintas Cup, held on the 13th to the 14th April consisted of a total 48 hours of dismounted and mounted vehicle operations which lead
into a 15 km Combat Fitness Assessment pack march. The Quintas Cup would also hold a live fire battle run serial as the final test for
the soldiers of Delta Company.
The live fire battle run would implement skills of soldiers operating their individual weapon system in a live fire environment. Crews
of the A1 carrier would operate the main armament of the Carriers, the 50 calibre quick change barrel machine gun. The Platoons were
individually tested on their basic Infantry minor tactics and mounted vehicle drills, and also ran through different serials of snap
vehicle checkpoints, vital point drills, IED drills and casualty evacuations.
Delta Company ended Quintas Cup and exercise Southern Reach late on the afternoon on the 14th of April, the day that marked the last
use of the in-service A1 Carriers. From the accumulated performances of both 10 Platoon and 11 Platoon it was a hard decision to
choose which platoon came on top for the Quintas Cup, thus was a tie.
Throughout exercise Southern Reach and the Quintas Cup, Delta Company established a variance of training experiences. The
Company learned valuable lessons from vehicle drills using the A1 carriers, and what individual soldiers learned from being on the
ground. The 15th of April 2010 would end the final exercise that A1 carriers would be operated and proudly leaving 5 RAR Delta
Company as the last Company to utilise the M113A1 Carrier.
5 RAR SNIPER STAND ON SHOW
On the 14th of May 2010 the 1st Brigade put on a rare public display of it’s most prised weapons and specialist equipment as a
demonstration for Defence’s most recent graduates into the Defence Materials (DMO) program.
On show upon the Brigade Parade Grounds, this event was aimed to display each combat unit’s specialised equipment for the new
DMO employees to review in a practical setting what they had previously learned in theory. The local Palmerston High School was
also given the opportunity to attend and given an insight on the different jobs available within the Defence Force.
5 RAR’s Support Company utilised the highly skilled and trained Sniper Cell to display the modern mechanised Sniper capability
whereby members from DMO and the local Palmerston High School could get an insight into the weapon systems and tactics of the
illusive sniper. Corporal Burley, Private Halsey, Private Bickerton, and Private Robbins were the sniper team sent down to display the
capability of the 5 RAR Sniper Cell. The Sniper team displayed a variety of weapon systems such as the Sniper Rifle 98, 50 calibre
Anti-Material Rifle, pistols, surveillance equipment and the soldier’s individual “Yowie” suits.
Students from the Local Palmerston High School were ecstatic to handle the Sniper Rifles that were on display. Corporal Burley gave
the high school a presentation on the capabilities of all the weapon systems and an introduction on what it takes to be a sniper in the
Australian Army.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 3
60 SECONDS WITH BIKO – OC CHARLIE
Shortly after boozer parade one afternoon I hung around a little longer in order to speak to Major
French, to ask him some questions for this very article. The interview would have begun slightly
sooner if it weren’t for a python which decided to make a home beneath one of the wheelie bins. It was
here where I witnessed first hand Major French in his role as Officer Commanding, overseeing the
umm . . . careful removal of this unwelcome intruder. Sure enough the snake was dealt with in a way
only befitting an infantry battalion. Major French or Frenchy to those who are not required to address
him as Sir is 31 years of age. Married to Liz from whom has given him two young boys, his eldest of 3
years new born.
Major French joined the Army back in 1996 some 14 years ago straight out of high school. The army is
simply something he had always wanted to do and having known other officers before signing up he
was more inclined to go for his commission as opposed to going down the Kapooka path.
I asked Major French if he had ever been infringed during his career, he said “Never been charged,
never been caught.” Major French said that he’s currently in his dream job, newly appointed OC of
Charlie Company, and is quite content in his position, but given that he intends to stay in the army as
long as they’ll have him, I’m sure he’ll be keen to climb that ladder again with time.
Even though Major French intends on staying in the green machine I posed to him if he did
hypothetically leave the Army what would be his preferred line of work. With that he simply said
“Sports Management,” preferably rugby union.
Like everyone in the army there are certain things about it which cause great annoyance. For Major
French it is paper work and the having too much of it and unrealistic directives from desk warriors.
And if I could throw in my two cents I’ve noticed that he’s none too fond of dirty fridge seals during
room inspections. Major French is an avid sports fan following rugby union, cricket and skiing, having
participated in them all at some point and in his words “very poorly.”
In his spare time he’s tending to the needs of a newly born baby with his wife Liz, but if he had time
for other things it would be spent cycling and to the study of military history. His favourite drink is
Rum & Coke which he may possibly drink while watching his favourite movie ‘The Usual Suspects.’
When asked weather he prefers RM Williams or Country road (Fashion Labels) he replied
“Billabong.”
Major French says that he loves Darwin and the relaxed lifestyle it offers and the lack of pretentious
individuals who are so abundant in the big cities. I gave Major French the opportunity to send a
message out to all his diggers in Charlie Company and this is what he had to say, “Do more than is
asked, more than is necessary, you’ll get better at it and enjoy everything more.”
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 4
CO 5 RAR Reports
The 5th Battalion has commenced the New Year with eagerness and enthusiasm for the opportunities that await us in 2010.
This anticipation comes on the back of a successful 2009 that saw elements of the Battalion deployed across three separate
operational environments and a complete domination of the 1st Brigade Commander’s Trophy and sporting competition.
The Battalion is almost fully manned with over 750 soldiers, making us the largest Battalion in the Regiment. With the
recent march in of MTF personnel from across the Brigade our numbers have swelled to over 1000. So far this year, I have
observed training conducted by all companies and have generally been pleased with the standard I have observed. The
Battalion team won the Brigade military skills competition and our AASAM team won the RAR trophy with some
excellent shooting.
As we prepare for deployment to Afghanistan later this year, I ask you all to remain mission focussed and remember that
the quality of the training you are conducting now may be the difference between life and death for you or one of your
mates. It is vitally important that we prepare ourselves as well as possible. Train hard and make the time you spend with
your families count.
DUTY FIRST
Corporal John Dakin is the Tiger of the Month
His loyalty to the Coy and Battalion is unquestioned and he has
given and received that same loyalty to his soldiers, and lifted
their collective efforts.
He is a determined, combat focused and strong young JNCO
who has made all efforts to train his soldiers to the highest
standards. At short notice he assumed command of the C Coy
MSS after his SECT COMD was deployed to assist RMC, and
his confident approach and job knowledge ensured that this
was a seamless transition.
CPL Dakin developed and ran an excellent training program
designed to test the individual and collective skills of his
section.
CPL Dakin is nominated as 'Tiger of the month' for his work as
A/SECT COMD MSS and training of other soldiers. CPL
Dakin has exemplified the "Traits of the Tiger" and the spirit of
C Coy. He is a keenly focused individual, determined to
prepare his soldiers for operations in combat conditions and
ensuring their skills are constantly tested and developed.
He is an extremely fit JNCO who provides an excellent
example for all members of the Coy to follow in his approach
to his work, his personal readiness.
He was intimately aware of all issues regarding the welfare of
his soldiers and was able to provide excellent advice to the
CHQ on MSS issues and guidance to the more junior members
of the section as required.
His skills and dedication to his duty resulted in his early
promotion to CPL within C Coy and command of a rifle
section.
CPL Dakin is a fitting recipient of the title of 'Tiger of the
Month' and should be commended for his efforts
Tiger Tales
THE WONDER MONTHS
Issued, April – May Page 5
NOTICE TO TIGER
MEMBERS
Delta Company came back for the New Year riled up and ready to go. All eyes
were on Afghanistan as the Digger net kept everyone informed as to what we
would be doing throughout the year. The Company took on a new look with
plenty of Digs from Singo and a new CHQ in the form of OC MAJ Roy Henry
and 2IC CAPT Omaji.
It was quickly established with the meshing of CHQ and the soldiers the focus of
the year would be on realistic graduated training designed to train us for the
likelihood of combat before the year is out.
February saw the mustering and administration of the platoons into units with a
strong identity. The focus was on the NCO’s who provided a solid IMT platform
and battle fitness to prepare the lads to step up for March. Towards the end of
February we saw many depart on courses, most heading south to conduct M113,
PMV and SIO-S courses. Closer to home Sniper Cell plucked a handful to
participate in Pre Course assessment for the Sniper course, of which Delta fielded
two successful candidates.
The beginning of March saw the focus on Range Week. The order of the day was
rounds down range and the boys certainly did that, achieving excellent groupings
from standing, kneeling and prone positions and at alternating ranges. LF4 was
shot again and again on the GZR and 200m was drilled concurrently from the
MTR. The results were excellent and set us up for success for the remainder of
the week
Gunners got their day out too and with plenty of link they improved their
collective skills firing at alternate ranges on snap and deliberate serials from all
positions. By the end of the day the Gunners had brought their F89’s under
control and were missing low flying aircraft and hitting rabbits at 200m.
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5 RAR Upcoming Leave Period
Mid week LF6 was shot and some excellent results were achieved. More than 15
people qualified to shoot the AMP and across the board second and first class
shots were the norm. Although shooting by day provided great results shooting
by night presented new considerations. Working with NFE to engage at extended
ranges was challenging and provided a great lesson in the art of night fighting.
5 RAR Reduce activity Leave
period is beginning on the 12th
of June 2010 and ending on the
27th of June 2010.
Soldiers who qualified for the AMP shoot were bussed out the next day and
although many cursed coming in close to miss out by 1 or 2 shots, 5 earned their
Cross Rifles. You’ll know who they are on ANZAC Day because they’ll have big
grins.
Throughout the week concurrent training had focussed on AACFF, First Aid and
battle PT. The components of concurrent training and shooting were assessed in a
culminating activity that encompassed stretcher carrying, battle shooting from
alternating positions, AACFF, First Aid, LZ marking and IMT’s. The soldiers
performed excellently under stress and in the heat of the day. In the end, 41A
dominated and set the standard for what we can achieve with a well trained
motivated Infantry Section.
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Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 6
5 RAR COIN COURSE
While many departed on a well earned holiday in January 2010, several individuals from 5 RAR deployed to Afghanistan to attend the
Counter-Insurgency Leaders Course. The following members; CAPT R. Omaji, LT T. Butcher, LT T. Friend, WO2 B. Tully and SGT
C. Gilchrist were fortunate enough to attended the course which was run by our American counterparts during the period of 23-28 Jan
2010. En route to the course, this assorted group of SNCO and Officers transited through Kandahar, Tarin Kowt and Kabul.
During their travels the group had the privilege of discussing the current operating environment with members of Australia’s MRTF 4
as well as the Initial Incident Response team operating in Tarin Kowt. Many of those that the team spoke to from the 1 RAR Battle
Group were soon to return home after their 8 month tour and were longing to take some well deserved leave. Interestingly, these
members that we spoke to all drew on their common frustration with the prevalence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) within the
Uruzgun Province.
Many further commented that they believed that the increase in IED finds and strikes was increasingly becoming linked to the volatile
economic climate of the region. As such, with the median payment of US$40 to place an IED, it becomes a promising means of
supporting families throughout periods of hardship especially leading up to winter.
The Counter-Insurgency Course is a relatively new initiative instated by ISAF Commander, General McChrystal. As such the COIN
Academy is the leading institution which is teaching ISAF personnel the fundamentals of how to successfully engage in counterinsurgency warfare. As expected the Academy is supported largely by the United States Military however there is a respectable
contribution of Australian Instructors and affiliated personal that support the Academy’s work.
The course itself was structured in such a way that guest speakers would drive the subject matter and as such there was a significant
emphasis placed on the quality and diversity of the presenters. The spectrum ranged from Non Governmental Organisations such as
USAID, to Government Ministries such as the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD), to interpreters as well as
representatives from the Afghan National Army, Police and Commandos.
Throughout the course two of the most defining presentations were delivered by a United States representative who discussed the
National Campaign Strategy for both ISAF and OEF forces for 2010 and secondly by a representative from the Afghan Commando
Brigade who talked about the Afghan perceptions of foreign forces in their country and the development of their national defence
force.
Interestingly, both speakers presented a common concept, in which they urged the students to go forward and employ the practices
taught at the academy but to always do so in conjunction with co-ordinated military action. As a result of all the product and
presentations delivered at the Academy it soon became evident that the core principle of counter-insurgency warfare was that our
actions need to be civilian rather than enemy driven.
Consequently the soldier on the ground needs to be conscious of the possible second and third order effects which may both directly
and indirectly result from his actions. An example of this is presented in the scenario below. For instance, let’s take the sighting of an
LZ for a routine resupply whilst out on patrol. The commander initially determines a suitable LZ not far from his current location
amongst farming lands. After arriving at the selected site he realises that crops are being farmed on the intended LZ. Thus the
dilemma, should the commander still utilise this LZ or reconsider his options even though the next suitable ground may be 30 minutes
away?
Consider this, you conduct the resupply but in the process a large portion of the crops are squashed and torn from the ground due to
the recent drought. What impact does this have on the farmer? Does this now mean the farmer now can’t support his family for the
coming winter? Will the farmer now have to turn to other means to earn money until the next farming season? And finally, what does
the farmer now think of Coalition forces?
Continued Page 6
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 7
5 RAR COIN COURSE
Now in hindsight, there is no disputing the fact that our own security and that of
those we are sworn to protect most come foremost, however sometimes the
practicality of it must be tweaked. Thus is it not more successful if we can still
conduct this task without generating bad sentiments against coalition forces even
though the timings of the task had to subsequently be extended.
In conclusion the opportunity to have attended the COIN Academy was second to
none. The course not only served as an effective medium for teaching the principles
behind counter-insurgency warfare, but also facilitated forming contacts with various
other militaries.
Additionally, those who attended were able to gain a sound understanding of the
theatre to which 5 RAR will shortly be deploying into. As such, it would only serve
the unit well to continue to send individuals to attend the course in the lead up the
unit’s deployment to Afghanistan as part of MTF2 in late 2010.
Left to Right: L.T BUTCHER, WO2 TULLY,
SGT GILCHRIST, CAPT OMAJI, L.T FRIEND
5 RAR SNIPERS
Only a few hours after first light and already the humidity in the thick overgrown
training area makes sweat bead off their green painted faces. The ragged, shaggy
“yowies” move slowly and silently, bolt action rifle in hand, pausing regularly to
observe their surroundings.
Today, they would stalk their way to an enemy observation post where they would
greet the occupant with one life-taking shot. But it was at that position where the
Sniper's greatest challenge resided. Upon the enemy post sat one of their own Team
Leaders, seasoned in the art of sniping.
Carefully poised with a set of binoculars, this “Enemy” slowly searched the area
before him for the slightest sign of an intruder. Neither side takes their role lightheartedly; there is no medal for second place in this environment.
This is a typical training scenario for the soldiers currently conducting on the Sniper
Course run at 5 RAR during March and April 2010. The trainees will endure a lot of
fatigue, both physically and mentally, and have to be able to remain proficient
throughout.
If you don't love living in the field, getting dirty, cut up, crawling hundreds of metres
at a time, getting in fistfights with mosquitoes, and staying cold for days at a time
then this isn't the job for you. Field skills are just as important as being able to shoot
well.
The ability to remain undetected and engage a hostile target with precision fire from
a distance beyond normal infantry weapon systems has always been a significant
advantage during conflict. On completion of the course the newest members will
become an integral part of the Sniper Cell, providing 5RAR with a critical capability
that can be utilised in all phases of war.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 8
5 RAR RECON SURVIVAL COURSE
Soldiers from Support Company 5 RAR along with members from Norforce joined together to embark on a 2 week survival course.
The course entailed how an individual or group can use their environmental surrounding to sustain them with food, water and shelter
for basic survival. The local indigenous community of Daly River assisted in the teaching of survival to the infantry soldiers of 5 RAR
and the Norforce patrolmen having a wealth of local knowledge and experience in living in the Top End.
Recon Platoon from 5 RAR’s Support Company was the main body of the course but was also assisted with members from Signals
Platoon. Soldiers Pte Geyer, Pte Poulter, Pte Ognew, Pte Clarke, Pte Robertson, and Pte Klarner were selected to attend the survival
course, learning extensively from the McTaggart family; the indigenous community of Daly River.
Above Soldiers from Support Company and Norforce with the McTaggart Family
The McTaggart family taught many skills including providing the course with freshly caught turtles, a kangaroo, bush yams and
damper. They also went on to explain their hunting and gathering techniques. By giving their knowledge on Australian bush tucker it
aided the soldiers on the techniques on surviving in this hostile environment.
Daly River indigenous resident Patricia McTaggart gave the soldiers of 5 RAR and Norforce a complete demonstration on the
preparation on how to make a hot coal oven in the Northern Territory bushlands. The community’s broad understanding of the land
and local knowledge is a great learning asset for the soldiers and their understanding of this unique.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 9
I 42 BUSY SCHEDULE
I42 has had a busy yet successful start to 2010. In between the
tires of leave apps and security upgrade paperwork, members
departing on courses and the tasteless humour of several
JNCO’s the Platoon has achieved some commendable results
across the board.
During the conduct of D COY’s range week the platoon
revisited the traditional live fire competencies for small arms.
After some successful shooting the platoon then commenced a
series of several unorthodox but challenging F88 and F89
shoots which tested them both physically and mentality.
Fortunately though, between the ‘wholesome’ a-lar-carte
gourmet cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner provided by the
Company 2IC, CAPT Omaji, the boys managed to stay
focussed and maintain some commendable shooting results. In
line with this achievement, the platoon also achieved a very
good result in the section level competition at the end of the
week. The competition saw all sections participate in a march
and shoot scenario which involved a pack march, stores carry,
section defence shoot as well as a medical casualty and
AACFF stand. Hats go off to both CPL Herbert and CPL Solis
who respectively achieved 1st and 2nd place within the
Company.
There was no rest for the wicked as the following week the
Company then deployed into the Close Training Area to
revisit section level IMT’s. Having deployed several weeks
prior for a pre-shake out CPL Solis, CPL Herbert and CPL
Monkhouse hit the ground running and lead there sections
through a series of test of objectives. In between avoiding
spotlighting shooters, snake bites and the local 3m salt water
crocodile, all three section commanders achieved some good
training and were subsequently able to identify several areas
for improvement. Similar to the week before, the CTA activity
was shaped to identify the best performing sections within the
Company and as such each section was assessed on three
deliberate attacks. The results were once again heavily skewed
in favour of I42 with CPL Herbert securing 1st, CPL Solis 2nd
and CPL Monkhouse 4th. Following several days out bush the
Platoon returned to the hangers with one final hurdle, a 10km
pack march followed by a water obstacle crossing. Whilst
some might argue that the water crossing was conducted prior
to the North pool, due to the previous nights rain flooding the
perimeter fence, the event was a great success which was
undoubtedly felt by all the next day.
Whilst all that is green may appear to be the emphasis of this
article there are two other notable events that have occurred
recently. Firstly, for those outside of the Rugby mafia, CPL
Solis has achieved some respectable results whilst
representing 5RAR in the 1 Brigade Rugby Union team, most
notably at the recent Kapooka 10’s competition. And finally,
we would like to congratulate PTE Flynn on the birth of his
first child Ruby Jade Flynn, who was born on the 28 Feb 10.
Binh Ba Platoon was formed earlier this year to administer the
injured soldiers, the new march ins and any one else in
between. Over the past two weeks Binh Ba has administered
over 50 new soldiers. When the new soldiers arrive, they are
picked up from the airport by army transport and then dropped
of at the 5 RAR guard room.
The RPs are responsible for the first bit of admin which
includes sorting out their accommodation and and conduct
records. From there the soldiers are marched to Binh Ba PL
wear they undergo acclimatisation PT, march in paper work,
and given briefs about Robertson barracks and the Darwin
area. They idea is to march them into a company after two
weeks with all their administration completed.
Aside from the new soldiers, Binh Ba is responsible for Rehabilitating the injured soldiers of 5RAR. Lcpl Bettes is
responsible for the MEC-3 members who are not injured and
are able to participate in PT, his job is to get them to a fitness
standard that is acceptable in the rifle companies.
Time in Binh Ba is spent either at PT, admin work, or
following a training program to maintain soldier skills. This
includes nav lessons, all arms call for fire, studying the MAF,
and weapons lessons. At the moment there are seven soldiers
from Binh Ba in Cultana playing enemy for C coy.
So far Binh Ba PL has not had any major disciplinary issues,
and what little ones that have occurred have been dealt with
quickly and appropriately, with no soldiers having proved
themselves as admin nightmares.
Binh Ba PL is becoming more efficient every day, and the
speed at which administration is being conducted will only get
faster.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 10
ANZAC TRADITIONS SHARED WITH WULAGI PRIMARY
SCHOOL
On Friday the 23rd of April
2010, PTE Joshua De Backer
departed Binh Ba Lines for
Wulagi Primary School to
educate and inspire students
with the ANZAC spirit from
recounting battle honours and
bravery from young
Australians that have shaped
this great nation.
PTE De Backer was given the
opportunity to share with early
childhood classes from
Transition to Grade 5 on the
traditions of being an ANZAC
and the experiences of being a
soldier in the Australian Army.
Mrs Susanne Fisher, Principal
of Wulagi Primary, welcomed
the opportunity of having a
soldier go from class to class
and individually speaking with
the students on the customs
and traditions of the ANZACs.
PTE De Backer said, “It was a
great pleasure to go to the local
school and talk to the kids
about ANZAC Day and
teaching them about what it’s
like to be a soldier”.
PTE De Backer was
amazed that the majority
of children in early
childhood had a good
understanding of ANZAC
Day and the history of the
Australian Army.
The school of 200-odd
students held a Service at
lunchtime to finish the
day’s commemoration to
the ANZACs.
The special guest for the
ceremony was Mr Robert
Johnston, a veteran of the
Vietnam War and
President of the NT
Association. An
introduction was also
given by the local MLA
representative; Mr. Peter
Styles, who showed his
grandfather’s and father’s
war medals.
The “Ode” was given by both
school captains Marnie Hake
and Zackary Derksen. The NT
News was also present
recording and taking photos of
the whole ceremony.
The school conducted a
beautiful ceremony and
captured exactly what the
ANZAC spirit is all about.
Upper Primary grades 5/6 have
been studying the ANZAC
traditions and the battles that
the ANZACs fought.
Asked to provide an
impromptu military training
experience, PTE De Backer
provided a demonstration
on camouflage and
concealment for the
students who were
practiced in the application
of camouflage paint (and
it’s delicate removal).
The face painting proved a
hit with the little-ones and
certainly left the students
with a lasting impression of
ANZAC Day and the
Australian Army.
Wulagi Primary was very
welcoming to the traditions of
ANZAC Day, all the classes
having made their own wreaths
to present at the ceremony of
flag-raising in honour of the
ANZAC soldiers.
Private De Backer, Teacher Mrs Cheryl Burnett and grade 2/3 of Wulagi Primary School
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 11
MORTAR PLATOON
5 RAR RAP
Well it’s been another busy start to the year of training in 2010
with the majority of the Platoon away on course, including
SIOS, JLC, Officer/ NCO Mortars, Languages,
PMV/Commander Driver courses and lets not forget to
mention the odd couple of soldiers sent to Cultana to support
the other Coys.
The RAP, to say the least, had a hectic start to the year
attempting to achieve medical readiness for the close to 800
soldiers and officers of the Battalion. We have been kept on
our toes completing annual health assessments, vaccinations
and sick parades. This is in addition to the never ending chain
of medical administration.
As far as training within the Mortar Pl is going, most of the
members are either on course with the remainder of SPT COY
forming into training Pl. Activities conducted so far include
line drills, Urban training with Delta Coy, a strict PT program
and also a week long range phase which incorporated pack
marching from SPT Coy to the range in the morning followed
by a return in the evening.
We currently have two members deployed to Malaysia on
RCB, CPL Schofield and LCPL Rivadillo. PTE Dovey is
currently attending the Advanced Medical Assistant Course
(AMAC) at the Army School of Health. The RAP welcomed
several new members this year: LT Van Ash RN, SGT Lees,
CPL Cantwell, PTE’s: Gulliver, Gardiner and McInnes;
joining the RMO CAPT Heathcote, WOMED WO2 Brooks
and Carol Perry our civilian RN.
Congratulations to PTE WALL who had a baby girl born this
month and PTE Martin from Mortars who had a baby boy.
PTE Martin could not decide a name for his new born, so to
solve this dilemma names were put into a hat from Mortar Pl
and PTE Martin drew out the name of his child. The wait was
finally put to an end when he withdrew the new name of his
first born boy. Some of the names put forward were; Ray,
Akhmed and Slumdog. After much debate with his partner
they decided to name his child Alex after LT Alex Davidson
our faithful Pl commander.
TECH SUPPORT PLATOON
Well, it’s a new year in the Tigers’ workshop which brings a
new dynamic to the workshop floor. Over the Christmas break
we said goodbye to a number hard working faces and hello
and welcome to the new faces and their families that have
joined Tiger family.
This year was marked to be a busy year and has already
proven to be just that. With the preparation of the vehicles for
‘Exercise Southern Reach Around’ being given to the
workshop at the last minute, the workshop had to burn the
candle at both ends to get the vehicles ready, and did so
without reproach. Due to the introduction of the new M113
AS4 later this year, a whole new range of challenges are sure
to arise which we are sure to find interesting and confusing,
but are sure to adapt and over come.
This year the workshop has more people than last year and
with the influx and promotion of rank we should be able to
conquer the manning issues we faced last year. This should
mean we all get to spend more time at home with our families
before some of us depart for 8 months overseas on
deployment.
We will have several members of the RAP attending different
courses this year including AMAC, Acute Mental Health On
Operations and Rotary Wing Aero Medical Evacuation course.
In addition to these courses, members will also take part in
various other promotion and subject courses as well as
specialised pre-deployment medical training.
The RAP will remain committed to our mission in securing
medical readiness and care for 5RAR. Whilst our work load is
massive and shows no signs of abating, morale remains high
and we are looking forward to the future challenges of the
year.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 12
5 RAR CATERING
Well the year has started with catering platoon hitting the
ground running with a flurry of the usual activities to start the
year off.
First we had everyone’s favourite, the start of year induction
training where most just managed to stay awake. Then the
new members of the unit started to familiarise themselves with
the Battalion and the who’s who in the zoo.
This year’s new march-in’s for Catering Platoon are WO2
Warren Twaddle (Caterer) who has come across from 2 Cav
Regiment, Darwin, SGT Jason Bateup from 7 Signal
Regiment (EW), CPL Andrew (Cowboy) Cowen from B SQN
3/4 Cav Regiment Townsville, and CPL Daryl (Freeo)
Freeman from 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment, Townsville
and CPL Brendon Mc Donald from 2 Cav Regiment.
So far this year we have seen the Caterer and PTE Darcy
deploy to Cultana on EX Southern Reach for three months and
SGT Mick Kearney head off to complete his Sub 1 for
Warrant Officer, leaving Cpl Cowen as the acting Caterer over
this time.
SGT Jason Bateup is currently on deployment with the Rifle
Coy Butterworth and is due back in the not too distance future.
The first function that the platoon supported this year was the
Battalion Birthday which due to a heavy storm was cancelled
at the last moment and re-scheduled for the following
weekend.
We have also been very busy with the normal day to day
support to all of the messes within the Brigade which has seen
the boys perform well with the heavy work load.
At present we are preparing to support the snipers course at
KFTA as well as EX Nui Dat, Ex Rapid Tiger , and ANZAC
day just to name a few. We are looking forward to the
challenges that lay ahead and hope to make this year the best
year for 5 RAR Catering as this will be our last year in the
Battalion before we are all posted to 1 CSSB and the new
Catering Coy at the end of the Year.
5 RAR TIGER CUBS
Alexandra Loftus
Jack Archibald Peasley
Daughter of CPL G.
Loftus
Son of Kurt Peasley
5 RAR Support
Company
Born 25 Mar 2010
Delivered at home by
“Lofty”
In a birthing pool
8 Lbs 16 oz/3.7kg
5 RAR Support
Company
Born 16 APR 2010
At Royal Darwin
Hospital
5 Lbs 9 oz/ 2.695 kg
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 13
5 RAR SPORTS ZONE
RUGBY PLAYER MOVES TO
BOXING SENSATION
5 RAR’s Captain Reuben Ute Omaji contented his first official
amateur fight against Sam Swalding on 17 April 2010,
whereby he triumphantly won the Northern Territory Boxing
Association Super heavyweight division fight.
Omaji is well known to 5 RAR as one of the Tiger rugby
players, whom early this year participated in the 1st Brigade
rugby team. Captain Omaji, who first enlisted to the
Australian Defence Force on 09 Jul 2002, has been deployed
to East Timor and Solomon Islands on Operations ANODE
and ASTUTE.
Omaji has always been passionate about his sports, and
throughout the last year has been juggling his rugby with his
boxing training. After participating 5 RAR win of the BDE
Rugby tournament last year, he came to the decision to bring
his rugby playing to a close and become more serious about
his boxing training.
Omaji delivering a swift blow to Swalding
Although, Omaji still would have won the fight regardless of this
injury as he was leading by seven or so points. Omaji said “It was
a tough fight and a good experience. I learned much from my fight,
especially to keep my left guard up and to keep my chin tucked
in”. Omaji is continuing his training and aspiring to participate in
more official fights, and if work permits, will one day turn
professional.
Omaji commits most days of the week for his boxing training
and also dedicates himself to extensive explosive and dynamic
strength trainnig. His training consists of a cardio based
workout and a gym based circuit.
BRENDEN BETTESS IS
TEAFA’s 3RD BEST & FAIREST
Despite recently being deployed to Cultana on exercise before
his fight, Omaji still made time for his exercise program in the
field. Omaji has always enjoyed the art of boxing since
childhood, he says “its old fashion prehistoric fun, two men
enter and one man leaves”. All of Omaji’s dedication to
training assisted him to victory in his fight against Sam
Swalding.
Last year’s 5 RAR Aussie Rules ‘best and fairest’ winner LCPL
Brenden Bettess has now left his mark on the local AFL
competition. TEAFA (Top End Australian Football Association)
tallied up all the votes from the last footy season on Monday 23rd
of February and placed Brenden in at 3rd place for best and fairest.
This was no mean feat as the tallied votes came from a pool of
over 150 players who all could have potentially won votes.
Originally Omaji was not meant to contend against Swalding
for the official fight, who was a last minute fill-in due to the
original contender being injured. On the 17 April 2010
Reuben Omaji weighed in at 91.7kg against Sam Swalding
weighing in at 119 kg. Victory aside, Reuben said “I could
definitely feel the weight difference”.
Brendan plays for the Pint Football Club (Pint Green Ants) who
are currently undefeated this season. This is only Brenden’s first
season with the team but has already made an impression in what
is an A grade league.
The fight between Omaji and Swalding was booked for three
by two minute rounds. The fight ended just short of the last
round by 20 seconds due to Swalding receiving an injury to
his elbow.
After demolishing their opposition in the preliminary finals
Brenden and the rest of the Pint Green Ants are set to play the
Banks Bulldogs on Sunday 7th March for the Grand Final. The
Green Ants are especially keen to take home the trophy to finish
off their perfect season.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 14
5 RAR PLAYER LEAD 1ST BDE RUGBY TEAM TO WIN
TENS
The 1st Brigade rugby team, the Spartans, won their first 10’s
tournament for the season on Saturday 27th of February. The
newly formed team, captained by LT Alex Davidson, is made
up of a majority of 5 RAR players with the rest coming from
other units around 1st Brigade.
Rugby 10’s is a variant form of rugby union in which teams
are made up of ten players, instead of the usual 15, with
shorter matches. This allows for a single team to play several
games in a day. Of the eight teams that competed in the South
Darwin 10’s the Spartans played three of them.
The first match was against the Palmerston Crocs. The
Spartans had scored 3 tries and 2 conversions against the
Crocs 1 try, the Spartans coming out the victors 19-5.
In the second match the Spartans came up against the
Casuarina Cougars, who incidentally were ranked number one
and tipped to win the tournament. The first half resulted in a
stalemate with neither side making a try.
Then late into the second half the Spartans scored a try. With
only minutes to go the Cougars managed to make it pass the
Spartans defence and scored a try, but missed their conversion
which would have won them the match. Because the Spartans
scored first, victory was given to them placing them into the
Grand Final.
The Grand Final was played against the Darwin Dragons. The
Spartans made 3 tries against the Dragons 2 tries. With that
the 1st Brigade Spartans claimed the trophy and the $1000
prize.
When Captain of the Spartans, PTE John Cannons, was asked
about the day, he had this to say, “The boys pulled together
with a last minute team and everyone played well. You can
expect big things from this team.”
The Spartans next game is on Saturday 6th of March, the
Jabaroo 10’s. These will be the last games they play before the
Kapooka 10’s.
Front Row: PTE David INGRHAM, PTE Mitch JUDD, CAPT Reuben OMAJI, PTE Josh GRAY, MAJ Sean KEARNS – (Captain / Coach), CAPT
Dave JENSEN, CPL Tim GLOVER, PTE Marshall FOWLE, PTE Shaun KOBER, PTE Bart ZAMMITT .
Back Row: PTE BJ Lawrence, PTE James BOUCHER, PTE George ALLEN, PTE Paul MOEONO, PTE Chris COOPER, PTE Marty EAGLE,
CPL Chris DONOVAN, PTE John CANNONS, LT Alex DAVIDSON.
Absent: CAPT Michael O'DONNELL, LPL Matt SOLIS, LCPL Josh POMEROY, PTE Tommy BOOLE, PTE Rees NICHOLLS, PTE Howard
AWESSA, PTE Aiden ALLT, PTE Jeremy HENDERSON, PTE Jake BOON, CFN Jake BYRT, LT Jake FISHER, PTE Cole RADNEDGE.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 15
BROCK MILLARD NARROWLY MISSES
NATIONAL QUALIFICATION
PTE Brock Millard, our resident unit swimmer has
narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Telstra
National Swimming Championships by only 0.13
seconds. This meet would have given him the
opportunity to compete for Commonwealth Games
selection.
It was at the ‘Power in the Water’ swimming meet on the
13th of February where Brock swum his premier stroke,
50m breast stroke, clocking in at 32.63 seconds. There
was only one Territorian who ended up qualifying for
the championships.
Brock joined the Army back in June 2006 and since then
he’s been deployed to both Iraq (OBGW-3) and Timor
Leste (TLGB-5), having served most of his time in Delta
Coy. On the 12th of March, Brock will be shaving his
head to help raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation
in
the
‘World’s
Greatest
Shave.’
When asked if the shaved head would help him achieve
faster times in the pool he replied, “probably not.” For
the future Brock has set the bar high. He’s hoping to
train for a full year with the intention of hitting next
year’s nationals hard, clearing a way for the 2012
Olympic qualifications.
Private Brock Millard
With that Brock said “If you aim for the stars and you
reach the tree tops you’ve done pretty well.”
Lately Brock’s training regime has been pretty intensive
with two pool sessions a day Monday to Friday and a
single session on Saturday, totaling in over 25 hours of
swim time a week.
The next swim meet on Brock’s schedule is the NT Open
and Age Championships from the 11th to 14th of March.
Brock will be competing in the 50m, 100m and
200m freestyle as well as the 50m, 100m and
200m breaststroke.
TIGERS STAR IN TEAFA GRAND FINAL WIN
After an outstanding season with the
Pints football club, 5 RAR’s Aussie
Rules 'Best and fairest' winner LCPL
Brenden Bettess (pictured right of LCPL
Sid Dutton) and PTE Chris Demaine
starred for the Pints Football Club as
they took the 2010 Top End Australia
Football Association (TEAFA) grand
final. The grand final was played at the
Gardens Park Oval in Darwin on the 7th
of March 2010, and for the second
season in a row The Pints took the
match against The Banks.
It was a close match between the two
teams, but The Pints always kept ahead
in each quarter. It was 5 RAR’s very
own LCPL Bettess who played
exceptionally well, scoring two goals in
a hard fought game. The game ended in
the final quarter with Pints winning 11784 and, although LCPL Bettess didn’t
score all the goals, he was definitely best
on the ground. On the 17th of April
2010 The Pints football club held their
awards ceremony for the club to merit
players of exceptional performance
throughout the season. It was no
surprise to the audience or players, that
Bettess was awarded the golden boot
award for being the most consistent
player throughout the season.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 16
MILLARD DARWIN RECORD HOLDER
Private Brock Millard has again successfully smashed Northern Territory swim records in a championship swimming event.
Previously in March, Millard contested in the Mens Open 4 x 100m medley relay where he broke the “NT All-Comers Record”.
Millard also set the new record at 4m 15s 24ms whilst competing at the “Vorgee NT open & age championship” at Casuarina pool.
This month was a significant stepping stone towards Millard’s achievements in competitive swimming, motivating Millard to train
harder towards competitions held in May. On the 1st of May 2010 Private Millard attended the “Power in the Water Final”, a
competition held in Darwin at the local Casuarina Pool. Millard set another record at this event on the Mens Open 400m freestyle,
making it across the finish line at 4 m 28 s stating that “winning the event and breaking the record was a great start to the month”.
A successful month for Private Millard which has seen him continue breaking more Darwin swim records at numerous events. During
the Darwin swimming club championship held at the Parap pool on the 14th of May 2010, Millard made an outstanding achievement
by breaking two Darwin swimming records in the same day.
Millard broke the Men’s open 400 m freestyle which saw him set the new Darwin best time at 4m 26s and 16ms. Only a short time
later Millard recorded 5m 6s 18ms on the Men’s open 400m individual medley. A quiet achiever, Private Millard has let his results
speak for themselves, a testimony to the arduous hours and intense training and self discipline required of such a champion. Whilst he
may be known to shy away from the lime light, there is no escaping the fact that Brock Millard has become a household name in Top
End swimming circles.
5 RAR AFL & VOLLEYBALL CHAMPION
The 5th Battalion orderly room Sergeant Lisa Roberts has been aspiring to be quite the diverse sports contender. Lisa
enlisted in the Australian Defence Force on the 10th of November 1999, and has since enlistment been deployed twice on
Operation Astute in 2006 and 2009.
Since 2002 Sergeant Lisa Roberts has been playing Indoor volley ball for the ADF, eventually lead her to play for
Australian Defence Volleyball Association. She has been selected for the “All Star Six” awards and nationals teams, which
would have gave her the opportunity to play against the USA and New Zealand.
Apart from contending in Volleyball Lisa has also been playing women’s AFL in her spare time as a civilian sport. She
currently plays for the Women’s Waratah team, contested in the grand final last season coming runners up to Saint Mary
Women’s team.
During that season Lisa was awarded Best and Fairest Player for 2009/2010 season and cam runners up in the Women’s
League best player for the season. Most recently Lisa played in a game for the 5 RAR Tigers in an AFL scratch match
against 7 RAR.
Besides Lisa’s passion for AFL and Volleyball she also enjoys running, though she doesn’t run competitively she did
participate and won the 1st Brigade Cross-country in 2005 and 2009. Lisa is well known for winning the Annual
Lighthouse to Lighthouse Marathon which she ran 1st place in 2002 and 2003 on her posting at SCMA.
Sergeant Lisa Roberts plans to play AFL and Volleyball as much as her duty allows her to and is aiming to selection for
Australian Teams. When ever Lisa is lacking on motivation for her sports training she refers to a quote he training partner
gave her once “Train hard, race easy”, which has stuck with her over the year to always give an extra boost of motivation.
Tiger Tales
Issued, April – May Page 17
THOMAS MURRAY MAKES THE GRADE
PTE Tom Murray has been riding motor bikes for over 8 years. Last year he
decided to take his passion for riding to the next level.
In mid July 2009 PTE Murray became a member of TERRA (Top End Road
Racing Association) and started riding in B grade with lap times of 1min
20sec on his Yamaha R1.
By the end of 2009 he was winning B grade, and in 2010 became an A grade
rider lapping at 1min 16sec. “The fastest guys in the club are lapping at 1min
12sec, and the superbikes are doing 1min 8sec”.
Murray enlisted in 2006 and deployed to Iraq in 2008 with Secdet 14.
He currently works as an INT Dutyman in the 5 RAR Intelligence cell. With
continued practice, Murray hopes to improve his lap times and move up the
ranks to eventually win the TERRA A grade championship.
He is a firm believer in using riding skills on the race track rather than on the
road.
“Sure it’s faster on the track, but it’s still safer. It’s controlled. You can push
without worrying about oncoming traffic” he says.
His motivation to take to the track was a serious accident that left him unable
to ride for 6 months.
5 RAR Sports
Training
Area Notices
Rugby
TUE 0730 at the Jackson Field
POC Maj Kearns – OC Spt
AFL
TUE 0730 at the Graham Oval
POC Capt Leckie – RSO Spt
Touch
TUE 0730 at the Wier Sports
Grounds
POC Sgt Jones – Mortar PL Sgt
He wanted to be able to improve his skills without the dangers of riding on
the road.
“With the amount of riders getting hurt on sports bikes, I’d recommend
everyone invest in a track day to improve their ability.”
Soccer
TUE 0730 at the 2 Cav Parade
Grounds
POC WO2 Tully–CSM Spt Coy
Netball
TUE 0730 at YMCA Centre
POC TBC
Volleyball
TUE 0730 at Nth Gym Pool
POC WO2 St Clair – CSM C
Coy
For more information about track days go to www.terra.org.au
“Sports Representatives still
needed for other sports please
contact 5 RAR Sports Officer
Captain Trembath for Details”