THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY — 2015 ISSUE

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CONTENTS4 FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM

5 A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT

6 1000 DAYS TO GO COUNTDOWN

7 YOFT: YEAR ONE FAMILIARISATION TRAINING

10 CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE WELCOMES FUTURE LEADERS

12 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

14 CAPABILITY AND TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT COLLEGE

15 GRADUATES RETURN: CAPT DANIEL CHEN

16 NEW FACILITY HONOURS LEGACIES OF ADF’S FINEST

57 ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE TRAINEE OFFICERS IN 2015

ACADEMY LEADERSHIP TEAM: ACM REPORT 2015

SQUADRON REPORTS

DIVING INTO THE DEEP END

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

FORMER NAVY CLEARANCE DIVER INSPIRES ACADEMY

TRADITIONS THAT MAKE AN ACADEMY

GOING GLOBAL: INTERNATIONAL TRIPS FOR TRAINEE OFFICERS

THE FINAL CHALLENGE

CEO SLEEPOUT

51 VECC’S IN 2015

52 PARTING WORDS FROM THE ACADEMY SERGEANT MAJOR

56 A TASTE OF ARMY LIFE

58 A YEAR ASHORE AT ADFA

60 TESTING YOUR BOUNDARIES: FITNESS EXCELLENCE

62 WHY WE SERVE

64 A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE: AN INTERVIEW WITH SQNLDR THOMAS

66 AUSTRALIA’S FEDERATION GUARD

70 ADFA GRADUATION PARADE

76 ADFA’S JOURNEY TOWARDS WHITE RIBBON WORKPLACE ACCREDITATION

ADFA OPENS ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS: ANZAC DAY AT ADFA

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Ladies and Gentlemen,

Welcome to the 2015 edition of The Academy magazine. This magazine predominantly contains articles that reflect the high tempo in ADFA’s ‘Trainee Officer’ program. In February this year, our Year One officer cadets and midshipmen were welcomed to the Academy by their peers at the annual Chief of the Defence Force Parade. This year’s Parade was special for ADFA, as it marked the first Parade for the Reviewing Officer, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC, as Chief of the Defence Force.

One look at the Academy program demonstrates we have had a busy year. Getting around to as many of the activities as I can is a priority for me. From sporting activities to leadership challenges, I am inspired and proud to see the camaraderie and enthusiasm of our trainee officers.

Although this magazine predominantly reflects ADFA’s trainee officer program, it does not reduce the importance of the other parts of ADFA. The tempo at the Capability and Technology Management College has also been high this year, with the College contributing to providing leaders in the Defence Force with postgraduate education. The Defence Force Chaplains College continues to deliver important training for new and existing Defence Force chaplains.

This year, ADFA underwent a Unit Establishment Review to determine how we could improve our daily operations and still work towards achieving long-term objectives. As a result of this review, I have made the decision to make significant changes at ADFA. As of Jan 16, ADFA will reintroduce the role of Deputy Commandant, who will be responsible for assisting me with day-to-day processes in the headquarters at ADFA as well as have oversight of Australia’s Federation Guard.

The Director ADFA Undergraduates position will be renamed to Director Education and Training, and will have an increased portfolio consisting of the ADFA Officer Training College, formally known as the Undergraduate body, Capability Technology Management College and the Defence Force Chaplains College. Furthermore, we have introduced a Commanding Officer position for the Officer Training College.

As of Jan 16, changes will occur in the Officer Training College with five squadrons reduced to four, to be known as: Alpha, Delta, Echo and Foxtrot. I have made the determination to disband the AGORA Committee and this will be replaced with a closely supervised group, to be called the Academy Cadet Headquarters. This group of trainee officers will be a key link between the Corp of Midshipmen and Officer Cadets, and executive staff in order to affect positive change at ADFA.

Whilst the changes to occur at ADFA may be considered significant, they are being implemented to ensure that ADFA continues to affect positive cultural change, and to ensure that the health, welfare, morale and discipline of all under the ADFA command is at the forefront.

I hope that you enjoy this edition of The Academy magazine and look forward to another fulfilling year at ADFA in 2016.

Alan Clements Air Commodore Commandant ADFA

On behalf of the ADFA Communications Team I would like to welcome you to another edition of The Academy magazine.

This year has proved to be another exciting year filled with numerous events and activities, seeing many trainee officers lead and excel in many fields. From military training and academics to engaging in various extra curricular events, officer cadets and midshipmen have much to be proud of from 2015.

This edition features the conclusion of the ADFA Redevelopment Project marked with the opening of Adams Auditorium (page 16) and the Academy’s journey to becoming a White Ribbon Accredited Workplace (page 76), including our celebration of International Women’s Day (page 12). Learn about the various international trips undertaken by trainee officers throughout the year (page 46) and absorb all guidance offered by Paul De Gelder in this year’s Petro Fedorczenko Lecture (page 36). The feature pages detailing a weekly account of Year One Familiarisation Training provide yet another point of interest and an insight into basic training at ADFA. Of note, is the feature highlighting and explaining the Academy’s Heirlooms and Traditions (page 38) that officer cadets and midshipmen identify with, not only at their time at ADFA but well into their careers in the ADF.

The Academy also features articles from Australia’s Federation Guard, Defence Force Chaplains College and Capability Management and Technology College, which form integral components of the ADFA command, in addition to postgraduate and undergraduate studies.

To provide our readers with the best insight into life at our Academy, articles are written by officer cadets and midshipmen. I would like to extend my thanks to the Commandant, Air Commodore Alan Clements for his contribution and support for The Academy. I wish to also note the hard work and dedication to make such a publication happen from Anjali Skandaraja, ADFA Communications Advisor, as well as those members of the Communications Team, who without them, this would not be possible.

I hope you enjoy reading about what our Academy achieved this year. If you have any feedback to better the quality of our annual magazine, please forward your suggestions to: ADFA.publicaffairs@defence.gov.au.

2015 ADFA Communications Coordinator OCDT Phoebe Sutherland

The Academy Editorial Team:

Communications Advisor Miss Anjali Skandaraja, ADFA

Communications Coordinator OCDT Phoebe Sutherland

Academy Marketing Coordinator MIDN Thomas Icke

OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

OCDT Lewis Mikulic

OFFCDT Zoe Corcoran

MIDN Jerome Dillon-Baker

MIDN Lachlan Vidler

OFFCDT Kate Gellini

MIDN Matthew Newman

FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM

A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT ADFA

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The “1000 Days To Go” (1000 DTG) function begins the countdown for Year One officer cadets and midshipmen until their graduation. The event, which is held at the Academy Cadets Mess (ACM) allows over 650 officer cadets and midshipmen from all three years to participate in the celebrations.

This year, the ACM committee selected a beach theme, decorating the Mess with inflatable parrots, palm trees and loud Hawaiian shirts. Additionally, an outdoor waterslide and beach themed cocktails complemented the summer atmosphere.

Bands ‘Signs and Symbols’, ‘Cop That’ and artist Jesse James performed on the night, allowing all trainee officers to celebrate in an inclusive environment.

“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate having 1000 days to go at ADFA than having a fun night socialising with the people we will get to share our time here with,” said OFFCDT Tamara Hitchins.

1000 DTG was a successful event, allowing the Year One trainee officers to integrate with the wider Academy, and socialise in an informal setting.

THE1000 DAYS TO GO COUNTDOWNBy OFFCDT Zoe Corcoran and OFFCDT John Hensman

YOFT YEAR ONE FAMILIARISATION TRAINING

Fri 23 Jan 15 was a significant day in the lives of 310 young men and women from around the country as they congregated upon the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), ready to undertake Year One Familiarisation Training (YOFT).

YOFT is five weeks of initial military training that equips officer cadets and midshipmen with basic military skills, allowing them to function as trainee officers in the Australian Defence Force. YOFT began with basic skills such as bed making and ironing, progressing through to drill and ceremony, culminating with field skills such as weapon handling and navigation.

Upon arrival from their hometowns across Australia, ADFA’s newest trainee officers went through an extensive administration process that consisted of haircuts, uniform issues and briefs of what to expect over the coming days and weeks.

Over the course of the first week the new trainee officers were immediately inducted into military life as they learnt core values such as respect for each other and the value of teamwork especially in new environments.

OCDT Mitchell Muley, who appointed from Melbourne, said that he had a new appreciation of how crucial teamwork is in the military.

“I really understood the value of teamwork when we were all given small tasks to complete in order to achieve a larger goal.”

The Year One trainee officers felt a rise in intensity on Day 5, when they were all issued with weapons for the first time. After receiving lectures on the safe handling and carriage of weapons, it was expected that they would carry them for the remainder of YOFT.

OFFCDT Tayla Nankivell described the weapon issue as a moment of huge responsibility.

“I felt nervous about physically handling a weapon for the first time but I knew that the training we had received meant that I would be able to handle the responsibility safely.”

WEEK ONETHE JOURNEY BEGINSBy MIDN Lachlan Vidler

Packmarching through the bushland

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As our Year One officer cadets and midshipmen entered their second week in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) there was an evident step up in the level of training.

The week began with the Academy Swim Test, involving a 30 metre swim in full Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniform (DPCU), followed by two minutes of treading water. This test can be very challenging for some as moving through the water in full uniform proves more difficult than simply swimming in a pool.

Following their introduction to the F88 Austeyr in week one, the officer cadets and midshipmen had the opportunity to spend a number of hours handling

and learning about the ADF’s standard individual weapon. These lessons included stripping, cleaning and assembling the weapon, as well as the theory and understanding of the Marksmanship Principles. This was a very exciting time for all as for many of them it was their first experience handling a weapon, a vital tool in the Profession of Arms that they have all joined.

OCDT Russell said “Learning about and firing the Steyr has been something I’ve been looking forward to since early on in my application process, so finally getting the chance to have some hands on time with the rifle is awesome.”

As the week continued the officer cadets and midshipmen once again found themselves in the Indoor Sports Centre for another set of testing, this time for the Initial Fitness Test. This test involves a combination of push-ups, sit-ups and the ‘beep test’, all completed to the Defence standard cadence. Drill training also progressed, now incorporating salutes and turns on the march, steadily preparing for the Chief of the Defence Force Parade.

The week also included First Aid training and competencies provided by Surf Life Saving Australia, teaching skills that are applicable in all environments, whether it be at sea, in the field, around the Academy or in the community.

The culminating week of YOFT commenced on a high with prospects of seeing family post the Chief of the Defence Force parade drawing closer after intense field training.

The majority of the final week was spent on Exercise First Field, taking the Year One officer cadets and midshipmen out of the barracks environment and into a practical setting. The exercise develops their skills in navigation, field signals and radio communications.

“The time spent outfield was the culmination of everything we had learnt over the first three weeks, and allowed us to put our newly learnt skills into practice,” said OCDT Christopher Van Dyk.

On the completion of Exercise First Field all first year divisions take part in YOFT Challenge; applying all new skills learnt throughout the enduring five weeks in a competitive environment. YOFT Challenge is designed to give officer cadets and midshipmen a sense of accomplishment and pride as they march back into the Academy and receive their ADFA unit patches, upon completion of the activity.

“The YOFT challenge provided me with many obstacles to tackle, both physically and mentally. With my mates beside me, I participated in activities I would never have believed I could have achieved before coming to ADFA,” said OFFCDT Janet Mudler.

To mark the conclusion of YOFT all Year One trainee officers attend the Napier Waller Reflection Ceremony held at the Australian War Memorial. This ceremony gives individuals the opportunity to reflect on their personal, Academy and Service values, which they are now a part of.

“Attending the Napier Waller Reflection Ceremony made me feel proud to be a member of the Australian Defence Force, as it reminds us of the legacy which we are now contributing to,”

— OCDT Christopher Van Dyk.

WEEK TWOSETTLING IN FINAL

WEEKON PARADE

By MIDN Jerome Dillon-Baker

By OFFCDT Zoe Corcoran

Taking aim during a weapons lesson Preparing for their first PT lesson

At the Majura Training Range with ADFA Commandant AIRCDRE Alan Clements

Learning about the ADF’s heritage at the Australian War Memorial

First year trainee officers at the AWM

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For the 308 Year One Army and Air Force officer cadets and Navy midshipmen at ADFA, the Chief of the Defence Force Parade on 28 Feb 15 was the culmination and celebration of five intensive weeks of training, which turned young civilians into military personnel, and well on their way to becoming the future leaders of the Australian Defence Force.

The annual Chief of the Defence Force Parade is considered to be one of the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere, and is a significant event for the Academy, as it formally welcomes new trainee officers.

Some of those in attendance included the former Assistant Minister for Defence, The Honourable Stuart Robert MP, who is a graduate of ADFA, and Service Chiefs.

As part of his welcome to the new trainee officers, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC, the Chief of the Defence Force and Reviewing Officer for the Parade, outlined what he expected of them as members of the Australian Defence Force.

“At all times, you are expected to uphold the standards and values Australians demand of their service men and women – but more importantly, you are the heirs of the ANZAC legacy; custodians of the trust built over years of service and sacrifice, and with that trust comes significant personal responsibility.”

Distinguished guests, families and friends were treated to an impressive display of drill from the Academy’s trainee officer body, as well as three separate flyovers from all services. Two flyovers were conducted by a C-17 Globemaster from the Royal Australian Air Force, which flew at an altitude of 90 metres above ground level. Guests were treated to another flyover, a combination of helicopters from the Royal Australian Navy, including the Bell 429, MRH-90 as well as the Australian Army’s S-70B Seahawk.

CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE WELCOMES FUTURE LEADERS By MIDN Jerome Dillon-Baker

“YOU ARE THE HEIRS OF THE ANZAC LEGACY; CUSTODIANS OF THE TRUST BUILT OVER YEARS OF SERVICE AND SACRIFICE, AND WITH THAT TRUST COMES SIGNIFICANT PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY.”

MIDN Fuller on parade as a Divisional Officer

The Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster flyover at the conclusion of the Parade

ADFA Commandant AIRCDRE Alan Clements and UNSW Canberra Rector Professor Michael Frater welcomed onto parade

Alpha SQN on parade

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International Women’s Day is a cause for celebration as men and women band together to commend the achievements of women both past and present. The occasion was celebrated by the Academy on 3 Mar 15.

ADFA had the opportunity to support the theme of ‘Make It Happen’ by holding an evening function with notable leaders from within our own ranks. ADFA Chief Instructor, LTCOL Michelle McGuinness, was the first of three speakers, and began by sharing her experiences of working and leading in both the garrison and deployment environment. LTCOL McGuinness also highlighted the culture

shift of women in Defence during her 21 years of service noting that the contrasting traits between men and women should be utilised as strengths, assisting to improve the overall capability of the ADF.

Subsequently the event’s guest speaker, Commander of the Australian Defence College MAJGEN Simone Wilkie AM, emphasised the need to realise that promotion within the Defence Force is based on merit and suitability, adding that no matter what gender, an officer may excel provided that there is constant effort towards being a military professional, citizen of virtue, and a

good leader. The night culminated with a question and answer session led by MAJGEN Wilkie and LTCOL McGuinness, involving visiting officers from all services within the ADF, as well as ADFA officer cadets and midshipmen.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAYBy OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

“THE STORY OF WOMEN’S STRUGGLE FOR EQUALITY BELONGS TO NO SINGLE FEMINIST NOR TO ANY ONE ORGANIZATION BUT TO THE COLLECTIVE EFFORTS OF ALL WHO CARE ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS”

— GLORIA STEINEM

MAJGEN Simone Wilkie imparts her wealth of knowledge and experience

of being a female in the ADF during International Women’s Night 2015

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The Capability and Technology Management College (CTMC) delivers the ADF’s 12 month program to develop select personnel to become Capability and Technical Managers (CTMs). The program, CTMP, provides graduating students with an educational qualification - a Masters of Capability Management and a professional qualification - the Capability Technical Manager qualification. CTMs are employed to apply skills and knowledge learnt from CTMP throughout the wider Defence in areas of Capability Development, Acquisition, Management and materiel sustainment. In a general sense, the CTMs role is to act as an interpreter to facilitate understanding between technical roles and command/leadership roles and to provide objective and proactive advice to capability sponsors.

CTMC has become a viable pathway for military personnel seeking technical employment and promotion opportunities. This year CTMC has students from all aspects of Defence, as well as international students from Indonesia, Thailand and New Zealand, with diverse backgrounds ranging from a ship’s Marine Engineer, Infantry Company Commanders and a Tiger Pilot to APS Project Managers and financial gurus.

The first semester of the year taught students Systems Engineering, Fundamentals of Surveillance Technology, Communication and Information Systems, Firepower and Protection Systems, and Project Management. Each of these Modules contained an academic component delivered by UNSW and a Defence component led by CTMC staff. The academic program is supported by a week of speaking to Defence

Industry in Victoria. Highlights of the week were touring the ammunition manufacturing plant in Benalla, spending time with BAE at the Williamstown ship making yard and a reviewing armoured vehicles used by the Australian Army in Puckapunyal.

After the mid-year break students returned to conduct the first electives for the year, ranging from Test and Evaluation, Weapons Engineering, Space Systems and C3I Systems to name a few. This will be followed by another two Defence Industry visit programs, Logistics IDM and a second elective.

CTMC provides one of the most challenging 12 month programs for the ADF and is not for the faint hearted. For those considering an application to CTMC, we encourage you to visit the CTMC website and speak to your career management agency.

CAPABILITY AND TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT COLLEGE (DISCLAIMER: INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCES MAY VARY)By CMDR Stuart Taylor

GRADUATES RETURN: CAPT DANIEL CHEN By MIDN Matthew Newman

CAPT Daniel Chen stepped off the Defence Force Recruiting bus at ADFA in 2004, to begin a highly rewarding and challenging career as an officer in the Australian Regular Army (ARA) Ordnance Corps. Since graduating from ADFA with a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Politics and Information Systems, CAPT Chen has been posted to various units in managerial roles and has spent time on operation in East Timor (OP ASTUTE) as a Platoon Commander and more recently in Afghanistan (OP SLIPPER) as the Interpreter Manager for Combined Team Uruzghan 3.

CAPT Chen returned to ADFA this year as a Divisional Officer with a wealth of experience, providing trainee officers with the guidance to reach

their full potential. He understands the challenges faced by officer cadets and midshipmen whilst they are adapting to military life.

“ADFA was a place where I was able to develop myself and build my character. It opened my mind to world politics and built my confidence as a leader, whilst asserting the importance of those altruistic qualities that are the foundation of the ADF.”

When asked what advice he would give to current and prospective trainee officers, CAPT Chen emphasised the need to seize every opportunity and to be involved in the many different extra-curricular activities on offer for the short period that one is at ADFA.

“Given the conveniences of living on base, not having to work part-time, having your meals cooked for you or commuting to work – there is a lot of spare time cadets and midshipmen have to engage in the ADFA community and make the most of their time here.”

I then asked about the advice he would give to Year Three cadets and midshipmen, as they posted in to their new units next year, curious as to balance between asserting one’s position as a junior officer and integrating as a member of the team. CAPT Chen remarked, “Listen more than you speak.”

“When you march in to your new unit, slow down, take stock, take time to understand and appreciate the dynamics at play before you start making any sweeping decisions. The trap a lot of junior officers fall into is that everyone wants to be a likeable boss and refrain from making decisions that are unpopular, and instead cast blame up the chain of command. It is important to find that balance of being approachable and being the one in charge.”

CAPT Chen’s recent exposure to ADFA as a trainee officer and now a staff member makes him a valuable resource to assist with the development of quality junior officers in the ADF. He is a prime example of the calibre of ADF officers that have been produced at the Academy.

The Graduates Return feature looks into the careers of officers who have graduated from ADFA, with a focus on how they have put what they learnt at ADFA into practice. The Academy will continue to feature various graduates and their stories in each edition.

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NEW FACILITY HONOURS LEGACIES OF ADF’S FINEST By The Academy Editors

The official opening of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose auditorium by the former Minister for Defence on 06 May 15 marked the completion of a $98 million ADFA redevelopment project. The project, which commenced in 2011, includes a multi-purpose auditorium, indoor sports centre, Cadet’s Mess kitchen and the refurbishment of teaching facilities and accommodation.

“The Academy opened in 1986 and since then, there has been significant change to the scope and delivery of training at ADFA,” said Air Commodore Alan Clements, Commandant of ADFA.

“The new facilities enable us to provide more efficient education and training at ADFA.”

The new Adams Auditorium, replacing Adams Hall, named after Rear Admiral Brian Adams AO, RAN (Ret’d), a former Commandant of ADFA, is located at the heart of the Academy and comprises a 1200 seat theatre, which is divisible into an 800 seat theatre and a 400 seat theatre, named after Air Chief Marshal Sir Neville McNamara KBE, AO, AFC, AE, Captain Reginald Saunders, MBE and Sister Alice Ross-King MM respectively. The auditorium also features a band centre, two large lobbies and three conference rooms dedicated to the Navy, Army and Air Force named after Lieutenant Commander Patrick Vickers, Lieutenant General Sir Henry Wells, KBE, CB, DSO and Air Vice Marshal Julie Hammer, CSC (Ret’d) respectively.

In addition to the Minister for Defence, the grand opening event was attended by the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC,

Service Chiefs, former Commandants and Deputy Commandants of ADFA, former Rectors of UNSW Canberra and the families of individuals whom facilities within the auditorium were named after.

The state-of-the-art facility has already proven very popular amongst Defence groups and services, frequently utilised as a multi-purpose venue for significant events. The auditorium is the most advanced facility of its kind in Defence and will assist the Academy in meeting the current and future academic and military training requirements to enable its officer cadets and midshipmen to become the next generation of outstanding Australian Defence Force officers.

REAR ADMIRAL BRIAN ADAMS AO, RAN (RET’D)RADM Brian Adams AO, RAN (Ret’d) joined the Royal Australian Navy as a junior recruit in 1969, serving as a seaman officer in patrol boats, landing craft and ships, and destroyers. His postings include the Australian Joint Warfare Establishment as the RAN Director, and HQADF where he worked in capital equipment programming, preparedness and resource policy development. In 2003 he was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for services to the Australian Defence Force and the Navy as Commandant of ADFA and as Deputy Chief of Navy.

RADM Adams was the Commandant of the Academy from January 1998 to early 2000. Adams Hall, which was demolished in 2013 in order to enable the construction of the new auditorium, was named after RADM Adams at the end of his tenure as Commandant ADFA in 2000. The new facility is named Adams Auditorium to maintain the link to the previous building, Adams Hall.

AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR NEVILLE MCNAMARA KBE, AO, AFC, AEAir Chief Marshal Sir Neville McNamara, KBE, AO, AFC, AE was a senior commander of the Royal Australian Air Force. He served as Chief of the Air Staff from 1979 to 1982 and as Chief of the Defence Force Staff from 1982 until 1984.

Sir Neville joined the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II and saw action in the South West Pacific, flying P-40 Kittyhawks. He also flew combat missions in Gloster Meteors during the Korean War. In 1961, he was awarded the Air Force Cross for his leadership of No. 2 Operational

ADFA NAMED A NUMBER OF FACILITIES WITHIN THE MULTI-PURPOSE AUDITORIUM AFTER MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE MADE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE, SO THAT TRAINEE OFFICERS TODAY AND IN THE FUTURE CAN LEARN FROM THEIR LEGACY.

The former Minister for Defence, The Hon Kevin Andrews MP officially opening Adams Auditorium

The ADFA values leading to the Sir Neville McNamara Theatre. Photography courtesy of Tyrone Branigan

Conversion Unit. He was the Deputy Commander Australian Forces Vietnam, in 1971–72, for which he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. As Deputy Chief of the Air Staff in 1976, he was named an Officer of the Order of Australia. Knighted while Chief of the Air Staff in 1980, he was appointed as Chief of Defence Force Staff and retired in 1984.

Sir Neville McNamara formally established the Australian Defence Force Academy as a Joint Service Unit under Section 32c of the Defence Act 1903 on 02 April 1984 in his role as Chief of the Defence Force Staff. ADFA recently celebrated 30 years since its formation and has named the 1200-seat theatre to honour and commemorate Sir Neville McNamara’s support to the Academy and contribution to the Australian Defence Force.

CAPTAIN REGINALD SAUNDERS, MBECAPT Reginald Walter Saunders, MBE was the first Aboriginal Australian to be commissioned as an officer in the Australian Army. CAPT Saunders enlisted in 1940 and experienced a challenging career as a soldier, fighting for the 2/7th battalion in the Middle East, to embarking on the ill-fated Greek campaign where he experienced his first close combat and was forced to remain hidden on the island for 12 months after the German victory. He also worked in civilian roles, but returned to the Army when the Korean War began, a testament to his commitment to serving his country.

The 800-seat theatre is named after CAPT Reginald Saunders to commemorate his service to the Australian Defence Force and the inspiration he has provided to members of the Defence Force of Indigenous heritage.

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SISTER ALICE ROSS-KING, ARRC, MMSister Alice Ross King ARRC, MM was an army nurse, enlisting in the Australian Army Nursing Service in 1914. On 17 July 1917 she was sent forward to the

2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station close to the trenches at Trois Arbres near Armentieres. On the night of 22 July, it was bombed. Sister Ross-King was following an orderly along the duckboards when fire bombs hit the hospital, the first falling directly ahead of her. In her diary she described the horror and carnage that followed it and was for her bravery during the attack that she was awarded the Military Medal.

The 400-seat theatre is named after Sister Alice Ross-King to commemorate her service to her country and the inspiring legacy she has left behind for all members of the Australian Defence Force.

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER PATRICK VICKERSLCDR Patrick Vickers was a naval officer who led an extraordinary career as a naval pilot. On 19 Dec 67, he led his platoon against a battalion of the people’s Liberation Armed Forced, flying in and out of the contact zone, landing reinforcements and recovering the wounded. For his leadership throughout engagement, he was recommended for Australian and American bravery awards.

The Chief of Navy, VADM Tim Barrett, AO, CSC, RAN chose to name the Navy room after LCDR Vickers, so that midshipmen at ADFA could learn from LCDR Vickers’ courageous examples of bravery and leadership.

The former Minister for Defence, The Hon Kevin Andrews MP and Chief of the Defence Force, ACM Mark Binskin, AC, inspect the certificate of the first ADFA graduate, David Michel, who played a key role in the construction of the Auditorium

Adams Auditorium as seen from the concourse

The former Minister for Defence, The Hon Kevin Andrews MP and Chief of the Defence Force, ACM Mark Binskin, AC, and Commandant ADFA, AIRCDRE Alan Clements with the Saunders Family

Inside the Sir Neville McNamara Theatre, Adams Auditorium. Photography courtesy of Tyrone Branigan

LIEUTENANT GENERAL SIR HENRY WELLS, KBE, CB, DSOLTGEN Sir Henry Wells KBE, CB, DSO was a senior officer in the Australian Army and served as the first Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee, the equivalent of Chief of the Defence Force today. LTGEN Wells led a distinguished career, serving in a number of campaigns as part of World War II.

The former Chief of Army, LTGEN David Morrison, AO (Ret’d) chose to honour LTGEN Wells’ legacy by naming the Army Room at ADFA’s auditorium after him.

AIR VICE MARSHAL JULIE HAMMER, CSC (RET’D)AVM Julie Hammer, CSC (Ret’d) served as the first female Commandant of ADFA from 2001-2003. She enjoyed a successful career as an engineer in the Royal Australian Air Force, which included achievements such as becoming the first woman in the Australian Defence Force to be promoted to one-star rank, first woman to be promoted to two-star rank and the first woman to command an operational unit in the RAAF.

The former Chief of Air Force, AIRMSHL Geoff Brown, AO (Ret’d) chose to name the Air Force Room in ADFA’s auditorium after AVM Hammer so that her legacy could inspire officer cadets and midshipmen at ADFA.

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On the last Saturday of August, ADFA once again held its biggest event of the year, the ADFA Open Day. Close to 12,000 visitors attended to see a wide range of displays from the Navy, Army, Air Force and ADFA. Personnel across the Academy worked together to ensure a positive experience for all visitors.

The ‘big toys’ were a hit with the crowds who were stunned by the precision of the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes aerobatic team, the performance of the Royal Australian Navy’s MRH90 utility helicopter and the raw power behind the Army’s M1A1 Abrams. Navy clearance divers surfaced to show their skills, RAAF Airfield Defence Guards put their dogs on show and ADFA’s own trainee officers demonstrated an infantry attack from a M113A Armoured Personnel Carrier.

Steel, gunpowder and diesel were not the only things on offer on the day, as there were a number of presentations by UNSW Canberra.

Throughout the day there were lectures and seminars for potential students of the world-class institution. Arts, Science, Engineering and Business were all accounted for, providing an insight into tertiary education at the Academy. The engineers opened their labs, their state of the art equipment and facilities to show all who were interested. These same facilities are where Engineering students have built drones as well as the racecar designed and constructed by the Academy Racing Team.

Open Day showcased more than the extraordinary; visitors were impressed by the displays put on by ADFA’s clubs. Every club was out in force to show visitors what they do every week. From the abseiling of the Adventure Training club, to the competitions of the Rowing Team, the duels of the Fencing Club, and the earth shattering 250kg dead lift from the Strength and Conditioning Club, there was something on display for everyone at the ADFA Open Day.

ADFA OPENS ITS DOORS

TO THE PUBLICBy OCDT Lewis Mikulic

Army officer cadets demonstrate an infantry attack at the ADFA Open Day

A treat every year, the RAAF Roulettes fly with precision The Red Beret paratrooper demonstration draws a large crowd

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MIDN Hush guides a member of the public as they try their hand

on the Navy Helicopter Simulator

ADFA’s Precision Drill Team at the ADFA Open Day

An Officer Cadet demonstrates the overwater obstacle course

The Royal Australian Air Force Military Working Dogs showcase their talents at the ADFA Open Day

An Army OCDT demonstrating the infantry tactics learned at ADFA to an excited crowd

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CELEBRATING 100 YEARS: ANZAC DAY AT ADFABy OCDT Lewis Mikulic

On 25 Apr 15 the sun rose onto the faces of over 600 officer cadets, midshipmen and their families. The Dawn Service at ADFA was held to observe and remember the sacrifices made by the men and women of ANZAC.

The defining feature of the memorial service was the Roll of Honour; a silent, respectful and moving interlude where the names of each ADFA graduate who had lost their life in service of Australia was announced. Each name was followed by a pause; those present filled each pause with reflections on their own future or past service and the gravitas of the sacrifices made before them. The service was accompanied with traditional music from the ADFA band and bugling from the Academy Bandmaster, Warrant Officer Class Two Graeme Reynolds.

AIRCDRE Alan Clements, Commandant ADFA, made the morning’s speech, reminding all there not only of the pride and respect they should have for their respective service, but also of the roles that must not be forgotten in celebration of ANZAC. He noted that whilst brave men fought gallantly on the battlefields overseas, the contributions of women and Indigenous members are yet another element in the great legacy that is ANZAC.

Following the service, officer cadets and midshipmen dispersed across Canberra to assist the community in their remembrance of the ANZAC legacy.

ADFA officer cadets and midshipmen providing the Honour Guard at the Australian War Memorial

Poppies on the Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour

Wreaths laid at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Anzac Day dawn service 2013

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On 17 Apr 15, OCDT Harry Wagner, OFFCDT Harrison Dawes and MIDN Kylea Jones embarked on a two-week representational duty to Turkey for the Centenary of the ANZAC Gallipoli landings. During this trip they acted as an attachment to Australia’s Federation Guard and were privileged enough to experience various battlefield tours on the Gallipoli Shores and immerse themselves in the Turkish culture leading up to ANZAC Day itself.

As a part of the Australian representational contingent at Gallipoli for ANZAC Day, they acted as wreath bearers for the Gallipoli dawn service and the Lone Pine National Service. This honour saw them deliver wreaths to dignitaries such as Prince Charles, the Prime Minister of Australia and other international representatives. The trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity for the ADFA trainee officers who were not only fortunate to attend the 100-year anniversary at Gallipoli but participated in all of the formal ceremonies.

The Academy Cadet’s Mess (ACM) is a place for all officer cadets and midshipmen to feel at home, relax, and socialise. The ACM is a state of the art facility and is unique in the size and breadth of its membership. As such membership of the Mess is an integral part of Academy life for all trainee officers.

The ACM Committee oversees the running of the ACM, and is responsible for numerous events and activities conducted throughout the year. This year the ACM Committee has focused on facilitating the development of our mess members into junior officers, and strengthening our mess customs and culture. The ACM Committee has also served to fulfil a leadership function within the Academy, and provided a communication link between trainee officers and Academy staff.

This year the ACM has strived to make a Mess that is welcoming to all, providing regular events to celebrate trainee officers’ achievements, as well as commemorate those who have gone before us. The Customs and Traditions member, OCDT Nicholas Broadbridge, has worked tirelessly to ensure memorials have been held for each trainee officer who has passed at the Academy, as well as honour graduates who died on deployments. Additionally, the ACM has introduced a reading room whereby cadets and midshipmen are encouraged to converse with each other.

There have been a number of successful functions held at the Mess this year, including Squadron Dining-In Nights, the third year Port Night, pay-day chill outs, International Women’s Day, a number of charity functions and more.

2015 ACADEMY LEADERSHIP TEAMPresident of the Mess Committee: OCDT George Lynn

Deputy President of the Mess Committee: OCDT Peta Ker

Secretary: OFFCDT Kaitlin Flynn

Treasurer: OCDT Kai Wang

Customs and Traditions Member: OCDT Nicholas Broadbridge

Messing Member: MIDN Katie Scicluna

Bar and Alcohol Awareness Member: OCDT Victoria Flockhart

Mess Shop Member: MIDN Natasha Pataki

Technical Member: OFFCDT Jacob Morrison

Property Member: MIDN Peter Hunter

Entertainment Member: OFFCDT John Hensman

Graduation Member: OCDT Kiaran Plunkett-Gregory

Half-Graduation Member: OCDT Christian Tsiamis

Divisional Representative Coordinator: OFFCDT Pierce Dilettoso

ACADEMY LEADERSHIP TEAM: ACM REPORT 2015By OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

ANZAC Day Ceremony at Gallipoli

Presentation of wreaths on ANZAC Day

OCDT Harry Wagner, OFFCDT Harrison Dawes and MIDN Kylea Jones on representational duty to Turkey

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In 2015 Alpha Squadron was involved in a diverse range of activities, events and tournaments within the Academy. This included involvement in Academy-wide events such as the Glasgow Debating Tournament, squadron specific initiatives involving community service accomplishments, adventure training activities and social events.

This year in the Glasgow Debating Tournament, Alpha Squadron performed tremendously and was undefeated after the completion of the preliminary rounds. Unfortunately they narrowly missed out on taking the trophy, losing by just six points to Echo Squadron in the Grand Final. Regardless, the 16 members who represented Alpha Squadron in the debates displayed talent and exemplified the Squadron proudly. Congratulations must go to the debaters and to the large number of members that supported them.

Community Service InitiativesAlpha Squadron was also involved in many community service initiatives throughout the year. In April more than 50 members of Alpha Squadron joined with the local branch of Queanbeyan Landcare and the Molonglo Catchment Group to plant more than 1100 native trees and shrubs in the Fernleigh Park area. This activity was organised by the Alpha Squadron Community Service Representative, OCDT Bradley Storm.

“Through the planting of these trees, a habitat of ten hectares was revitalised that would serve to effectively reduce the decline of native bird populations in the region”, he said.

Staff, officer cadets and midshipmen of Alpha Squadron spent the morning digging holes, planting trees and erecting tree-guards under the direction of the Queanbeyan Landcare volunteers, before concluding with a BBQ lunch. It was a fantastic opportunity for Alpha Squadron to contribute to the local community and engage with a diverse range of people. The attitudes displayed and the teamwork shown ensured that many hands made light work.

Squadron EventEach year, the Alpha Squadron Trainee Officer Leadership Team plans a major event that includes a series of activities designed to build teamwork, foster inter-year level bonding and to facilitate a fun and social atmosphere within the Squadron.

On the final weekend of May 15, Alpha Squadron spent a hard-earned weekend away from academic studies. Beginning with a very early wakeup on a crisp Saturday morning, the Squadron departed for Sydney. Upon arrival, Alpha Squadron members commenced both a kayaking activity on the harbour as well as a fast-paced scavenger hunt throughout the Sydney CBD. Incorporating sightseeing, military education and mentally challenging scenarios, these activities proved to be an effective method of developing teamwork and leadership, and strengthened ties between divisions and year levels.

THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY IS PRESENTLY DIVIDED INTO FIVE SQUADRONS: ALPHA, BRAVO, CHARLIE, DELTA AND ECHO. EACH SQUADRON HOUSES APPROXIMATELY 160 OFFICER CADETS AND MIDSHIPMEN FROM EACH SERVICE AND YEAR LEVEL. THIS YEAR HAS BEEN A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR EACH SQUADRON IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS, ALL WITH A COMMON THEME OF CAMARADERIE, ENTHUSIASM AND DEDICATION.

SQUADRON REPORTS

ALPHA

OFFCDT Sally Smith prepares to plant the next tree during the Alpha Squadron tree planting activity

OCDT Jordan Graney prepares to duck dive for his next clue during kayaking at the Alpha Squadron Major Event

Alpha Squadron members approach their next clue location during kayaking at the Alpha Squadron Major Event

Officer cadets and midshipmen planting trees for a good cause

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Bravo Squadron had an excellent start to 2015 with the successful welcome for Year One trainee officers and staff. Early on Chief of the Defence Force Parade morning, Year Two and Three officer cadets and midshipmen waited for the incoming trainees and staff at the AFL Oval Stand, where they were to be presented with their Squadron colours of maroon and given the opportunity to take a seat in the ranks of Bravo. After this short presentation and welcoming of all, Bravo was officially formed for 2015 and ready for what lay ahead.

Community Service InitativesCommunity Service was a strong point for Bravo in 2015, where all community service events have had a strong maroon representation. This includes, but is not limited to, the World’s Greatest Shave, Relay for Life, White Ribbon Walk in support of Tara Costigan and blood donations to the Australian Red Cross Blood Donation Service. Overall Bravo has raised almost $3000 for various charities but more importantly has given their time in support of many great causes.

Bravo proved to be a strong squadron in 2015 and has been working hard to improve all aspects of squadron life.

Squadron EventIn the last weekend of May, Bravo Squadron staff and trainee officers travelled to Lake Conjola on the East Coast where they took part in a weekend of fun activities with the aim of building squadron cohesion. The event also provided an opportunity to reveal the Squadron’s new mascot which contributed to developing further espirit de corps within Bravo. The event was hailed a success and should be attributed to the hard work of OCDT Sarah Coghlan and her team who spent a great deal of time making sure every aspect of the event ran smoothly.

Fitness FirstBravo has arguably maintained its status as the ‘lifting squadron’ again this year and this was proven at the recent Staff Gone Bad charity event where Bravo Squadron was known for the most repetitions across the very physically demanding workouts. Fitness proved to be an integral component of the Squadron in the Tug-of-War competition where we proved to be yet again a success.

2015 started with a bang for Charlie Squadron, with our two Year One divisions being inducted into military training during their Year One Familiarisation Training (YOFT). The performance of the first years in the YOFT Challenge greatly assisted the Squadron in the Lancaster Shield competition, with 11 and 12 divisions gaining 3rd and 2nd place respectively.

Student Leadership GroupThe newly structured Student Leadership Group (SLG), comprised of Year Two and Three trainee officers, began planning the various competitions and activities that the Squadron would be involved in throughout the year. It was important to the SLG that the Squadron set strong values from the outset and encouraged a safe environment for both professional and personal development. The goal since the beginning of the year has been to create a self-reliant, professional and inclusive community throughout all divisions.

This was achieved primarily through the use of mentor groups. The mentor groups consist of first, second and third year trainee officers who share a common Service or job specification and meet regularly in an informal setting. The push towards integration of all divisions towards a common goal has brought Charlie Squadron members closer together.

Squadron EventThe first event on the Charlie Squadron social calendar was a Squadron-wide barbeque that allowed the Year One trainee officers to integrate into the Squadron and set the scene for the coming year, being strong participation in all Lancaster Shield competitions.

Charlie Squadron has consistently risen to the challenge of each Lancaster competition and provided an unbreakable spirit along with keen volunteers. The Charlie Squadron cheer squad has dominated both the debating and swimming competitions.

Community Service InitiativesThough not stars in the sporting arena, the Squadron’s involvement in community service activities has been commendable, with officer cadets and midshipmen rallying behind the 2015 Staff Gone Bad competition.

The Charlie Squadron planning conference brought 40 members of the Charlie community together to set objectives for Semester 2. Participants were split into working groups of both staff and trainee officers to create a sales pitch for their new initiatives.

Squadron Dining In NightThe Charlie Squadron Dining-In Night (DIN) was a huge success, and functioned as somewhat of a training DIN for the partners of Charlie Squadron members, whilst demonstrating Charlie’s unique brand of spirit.

Overall, Charlie had a successful and enjoyable 2015 - Go Chargers!

BRAVOCHARLIE

Bravo Squadron 2015

Officer Commanding BSQN inspects officer cadets and midshipmen

Officer Commanding Bravo Squadron, SQNLDR Thomas, is welcomed on to the parade

CSQN triumphs in the Bayonet Assault Course

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Delta Squadron (D SQN), also the Chief of Defence Force SQN, had a strong 2015, building upon the strengths developed in 2014. With two new first divisions, the SQN had a strong start to the year with 16 Division winning the annual Year One Familiarisation Training Challenge. CDF SQN also started the year off with a new Cadet Leadership team, who were eager to maintain the momentum that had been established in the latter half of 2014. The newly structured Student Leadership Group (SLG), comprised of Year Two and Three trainee officers, began planning the various competitions and activities that the Squadron would be involved in throughout the year. It was important to the SLG that the Squadron set strong values from the outset and encouraged a safe environment for both professional and personal development. The goal since the beginning of the year has been to create a self-reliant, professional and inclusive community throughout all divisions.

Community Service InitiativesDelta SQN participated in the 2015 Relay for Life, helping to raise money and awareness for the Cancer Council. All Delta Squadron trainee officers participated in the event; the relay afforded the opportunity for the newer members of the SQN to spend time with the more senior members in an informal setting. This allowed for a greater level of morale and cohesion to develop within the Squadron. Not only did the strong attendance at the event promote Delta and its involvement within the wider community, but the Squadron represented the Academy as a whole to a very high standard.

Lancaster Shield CompetitionThe Squadron started the year off strongly, performing well in Lancaster Shield events. We proved to be a formidable force in the pool at the swimming carnival, continuing on from the successes of the 2014 carnival. The Squadron placed consistently in all of the events, resulting in a second place overall by the smallest of margins. We also performed well during the Lancaster Debating Competition, maintaining strong arguments and Squadron support in all rounds, achieve third place overall. The Squadron should be proud of its achievements and all speakers are congratulated on their achievements.

Social EventsLater on in the year, Delta Squadron held its Dining-Out Night at the Australian War Memorial (AWM). With 2015 being the 100th year since Gallipoli, the evening was made the even more special by having the event at the AWM, the event allowing members of the SQN to share with partners, friends and family military customs and traditions whilst dining under the famous Lancaster Bomber in ANZAC Hall.

Delta Squadron has thoroughly enjoyed building on the strengths developed in 2014, and with a strong cohort to lead the SQN in 2016; the SQN looks to continue the setting of the example for other SQNs in the Academy to strive towards.

Echo SQN had a very successful year. Following the completion of Year One Familiarisation Training, a series of social events kicked off the year in order to foster camaraderie amongst the members. A trivia night was held in March to further build upon the professional relationships within the Squadron. The event was a great opportunity for the Squadron to come together and formally welcome the Year One trainee officers. The camaraderie was maintained throughout the semester through Squadron BBQs and outings with the Mentor Groups when time permitted.

Healthy CompetitionEcho Squadron proceeded to prosper in the preliminary rounds of debating, making it to the final and battling it out with Alpha SQN, coming away victorious. The team consisted of MIDN Simon Brown, MIDN Max Whiticker OCDT Tom Eadie and OCDT Alex Whitehead. The close of April saw the Eagles additionally become victorious in the swimming carnival. The night saw excellent athletic performances from our very own OFFCDT Aimee Parsons and OCDT Teagan Raines to name a few, as well as some exceptional cheering and support from the rest of the Squadron on the sidelines. Echo clearly set the standard, supporting our teams with drums, bugles and speakers, making us the loudest and proudest supporters at the carnival.

Community Service InitiativesThe members of Echo Squadron showed their generosity at the close of the first Semester, raising over $7000 for Legacy in the annual ‘Staff Gone Bad’ competition. The event saw the Echo staff and Cadet Captain, OCDT Shaun Gill, sweat out as many reps as possible in a CrossFit-based circuit to earn donations from the members, who would donate on a per rep basis. Echo had raised the most of all Squadrons for this event.

Squadron EventEXERCISE EAGLE STRIKE was the first military skills based activity of the year for most members of the Squadron, in which Sections were arranged loosely based on the established mentor groups and sent into the Majura Training area to conduct navigation, first aid and basic team based exercises. The Exercise provided an opportunity for the Squadron to learn from one another and practice basic team and leadership skills in a field environment.

DELTAECHO

Walking for a cause at Relay4Life

On parade led by OCDT Nicholas Pullinen with the Army helicopter flyover

Delta Squadron enjoying its Dining-Out Night underneath the iconic ‘G

for George’ WWII Lancaster Bomber

OFFCDT Danielle Austin and OCDT Matthew Sanderson accept the Lancaster Swimming Shield

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The annual ADFA Swimming Carnival held on Thurs 23 Apr saw officer cadets and midshipmen participating in various swimming strokes, medleys, and relays, representing their respective squadrons in a bid to achieve the most winning competitors by the end of the night.

The Indoor Sports Centre (ISC) was overflowing with spectators, trainee officers and staff alike, ready to cheer on the competitors. A blur of squadron colours and flags surrounded the pool as competitors walked up to take their positions for their respective races. Cheers, chants and friendly competition quickly echoed throughout the ISC. The roars of banter and laughter intensified as the most entertaining of all the races began, the mascots of each squadron going head to head in the pool, proudly utilising their very own squadron made makeshift rafts, some more waterproof than others.

The night concluded with the victory of Echo Squadron on 106 points, only narrowly beating Alpha Squadron in second place by 10 points. The victory for Echo Squadron not only consolidates their position as having some of the best swimmers in the Academy, but also contributes to the highly coveted Lancaster Shield Competition.

The night saw officer cadets and midshipmen displaying fine camaraderie, a sense of pride and belonging, and determination to achieve outstanding results for their respective Squadrons, culminating in both an enjoyable and most enthusing night for all attendees.

DIVING INTO THE DEEP END By OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

The ADFA Community Service VECC (CSV) was established to provide an opportunity for staff and trainee officers to make a difference in the local and international community. 2015 has seen the CSV involved in a record number of community events and activities within the local Canberra region. The support that ADFA’s officer cadets and midshipmen have provided highlights the commitment and importance that is placed on giving back to the community.

In March, over 100 officer cadets and midshipmen participated in a Relay for Life event in support of the Cancer Council, raising over $9000.

The CSV also coordinated ADFA’s participation in this year’s World’s Greatest Shave, in support of the Leukemia Foundation. A total of $5500 was raised, with many brave members choosing to shave their heads and beards for a worthy cause.

A new initiative for 2015, involved the CSV presenting Youth Care Canberra with donations sourced from ADFA personnel and the wider Defence community. Donations that were presented included warm clothes, blankets and heaters, which aim to assist the local youth community in staying warm throughout Canberra’s cold winter.

A small group from the Community Service VECC participated in the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Door Knock Appeal. The Red Shield Appeal enables The Salvation Army to not only provide for the ‘Sally-man’ support to military units around Australia, but also to provide an array of social support centres for those in the broader community. The ADFA volunteers collected a total of $1275 for this year’s appeal.

In August, members from the Community Service VECC and the wider Academy participated in the Sydney City2Surf. Officer cadets and midshipmen pack marched the 14km event in order to raise funds for The Podmore Foundation. A total of $500 was raised for this great organisation.

The last event was scheduled for late September; an inaugural White Ribbon Charity Clothes Swap party, aimed at women in the wider Defence community to raise money for Zonta, a women’s refuge organisation. It involved clothing donations to be auctioned off, whilst discussing relevant and important issues regarding the prevalence of domestic violence in Australia.

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY By OFFCDT Emily Wilson

OFFCDT Danielle Austin and OCDT Matthew Sanderson accept the Lancaster Swimming Shield

Officer cadets and midshipmen donating to St Johns Care

Officer cadets and midshipmen ready to swim

Delta Squadron cheering on their swimmers

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FORMER NAVY CLEARANCE DIVER INSPIRES ACADEMYBy OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

The Petro Fedorczenko Memorial Lecture is an annual event at ADFA that has been held since 1990. Petro Fedorczenko was born in the city of Lubeck, situated in North Germany. Mr. Fedorczenko was captured and held inside a prison camp in Poland during WWII, where he remained separated from his wife and sons for many years. Post war and after being unsuccessful in finding his family, Mr Fedorczenko migrated to Australia where he fell in love with his adopted country.

Before his death, Mr Fedorczenko instructed that all his remaining assets be passed onto the Federal Government for ‘the defence of Australia’. As a result of this bequest, the trust has for 25 years been used to fund the annual lecture on themes of leadership and character development, to inspire the officer cadets and midshipmen at the Academy.

On 11 Jun 15, former Paratrooper, Navy Clearance Diver and current top motivational speaker Paul De Gelder delivered the annual Petro Fedorczenko Memorial Lecture.

Mr de Gelder began his speech with tales of his youth, describing himself as a rebel and was involved with friends that misguided him and therefore his life choices. Upon considering his future career path, he became heavily involved with adventure training and fitness, ultimately leading to his time in the Australian Defence Force.

He began his time as a soldier in the Australian Army before transferring to the Royal Australian Navy in the role of Clearance Diver. It was in this role that Mr de Gelder became the victim of a shark attack whilst on an exercise in Sydney. Mr de Gelder spoke of the importance to remain courageous in the face of adversity, and described the hardship he experienced with his physical recovery. He shared with the Academy his story of recovery and how he has returned to surfing, diving, running and training in the gym with the help of prosthetics.

Another example of his courage and commitment to recovery was when he dived with sharks in the ocean and his ability to share his story globally as a motivational speaker.

Mr de Gelder has been a role model for many globally, displaying and discussing the ways life continues after tragedy, reinforcing the message that there are no limitations for someone should they desire. The presentation identified that the Australian Defence Force provides a world of opportunities and support for its members, regardless of their situation. He also stated the importance of camaraderie, for without his brothers in arms, his journey to recovery would not have been so easy. He encouraged the audience to live the Academy values of courage, respect, service, integrity and professionalism, in conjunction with the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force service values. Members of the ADFA community in attendance valued the opportunity to interact with Paul and learn from his experiences and as a result were inspired and motivated in their own lives.

Paul De Gelder during his presentation

Paul De Gelder delivered a very engaging and motivational presentation at the Petro Fedorczenko Lecture

Staff and the trainee officer body at the Petro Fedorczenko Lecture3736

TRADITIONS THAT MAKE AN ACADEMYBy OCDT Phoebe Sutherland and OFFCDT Kate Gellini

ADFA HAS ACQUIRED MANY TRADITIONS AND HEIRLOOMS OVER ITS 31-YEAR STANDING THAT HAS MADE THE ACADEMY, AUSTRALIA’S ONLY TRI-SERVICE TRAINING INSTITUTION, SO UNIQUE. THE TRADITIONS AND HEIRLOOMS ARE ALL DERIVED FROM HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT MOMENTS SPECIFIC TO EACH SERVICE.

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i FLAG LOWERING AND RAISING

The raising and lowering of flags symbolise the start and end of the working day. During the raising and lowering, those within the vicinity are called to attention, and are to salute the flag as it is raised on the flag mast. Within the Navy, this tradition is known as ‘colours’.

A row of international flags at ADFA are raised and lowered every day. The flags are reflective of the countries that comprise the International trainee body at ADFA.

i THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE

Shortly after the completion of construction work at ADFA, a fountain was installed opposite the Administration Building at ADFA. Several years later the fountain was replaced with a tree and is now known as the ‘Tree of Knowledge’. Today, it is one of the most popular landmarks at ADFA. This year, Aunty Agnes Shea, AM, a Ngunnawal Elder and MAJGEN Fergus MacLachlan unveiled an acknowledgement of country plaque at the Tree of Knowledge

i MAGNETIC COMPASS BINNACLE

Its traditional purpose was to hold the ship’s magnetic compass, mounted in gimbals to keep it level while the ship pitched and rolled. A binnacle may be subdivided into sections and its contents typically include one or more compasses and an oil lamp or other light source. Other devices such as a sand timer for estimating speed may have been stored in the binnacle as well. Like the ship’s wheel, this binnacle is from HMAS KIMBLA and carries with it a prominent showcase of the history of the ADF and those that have served before us.

g SHIP’S WHEELWalkers Ltd of Maryborough, Queensland, built HMAS KIMBLA as a boom Defence vessel. Laid down on 4 Nov 1953 she commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) on 26 Mar 1956 under the command of Lieutenant Commander Arthur R. Pearson, RANVR. During her long career, KIMBLA steamed 363,038 nautical miles at an average speed of just seven knots. At the time of her decommissioning

on 15 Feb 1985, KIMBLA held the distinction of being the longest serving commissioned ship in the RAN and the last to use a reciprocating steam engine as a form of propulsion. The ship’s wheel from HMAS KIMBLA was presented to and is now showcased in the Academy Cadets’ Mess and since, ADFA’s trainee officers have been accompanied by the rich history that this heirloom carries.

TRADITIONS AROUND THE ACADEMY

i HISTORY OF MILITARY SWORDS

The swords used by today’s Australian officers are not dissimilar to those used by officers of days gone by. It remains a symbol of status within militaries.

i LANCASTER SHIELDThe Lancaster Shield is an annual competition that crowns the highest performing squadron within the Academy. Since 1986, squadrons have competed in a multitude of events for the title; these events include academics, military skills, cross-country, swimming, athletics and drill.

i GOVERNOR GENERAL’S BANNER

The Governor General’s banner was presented to ADFA as a reminder of the servitude and alliances of officers in the Australian Defence Force to the people of Australia, the Commonwealth and the Crown.

i MILITARY RINGSMilitary Signet Rings have been in use since the days of the Roman Army. Historically, they were awarded as a device of office, and used as a formal seal when sending vital documents between officials. These days, they are awarded as a symbol of graduation from military academies. ADFA has awarded its own ring since the opening of ADFA in 1986.

i DRILL ADFA uniquely integrates the three services in respect to drill. The Academy recognises the Navy as the senior service through the practice of Naval sword drill. Furthermore, throughout the Academy, Army words of command are united with Air Force foot drill to further the respect and celebration of a tri-service environment.

i THE GUN ON THE CONCOURSE

The Gun facing outwards of the Parade Ground stands to defend the base. The LS Pack Howitzer, the gun on the right edge of the Academy Parade Ground was introduced into service in 1963, and withdrawn in 2000, and was used in Malaysia and Vietnam. It weighs 2226kg with a 105mm calibre, shooting at distances up to 10,000m.

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h DRUM MAJOR MACEA Drum Major or Field Commander is the leader of a marching band, drum and bugle corps, or pipe band, usually positioned at the head of the band or corps. The drum major, who is often dressed in more ornate clothing than the rest of the band or corps, is responsible for providing commands to the ensemble, leads them while marching, and directs what they play, when to play, and what time to keep. The commands are given with a mace. The drum major mace kept in the Academy Cadets’ Mess showcases the rich culture and history of the Australian Defence Force and the customs and traditions associated with it.

g THE ADFA TARTANIntroduced to the Academy in 2013, the ADFA Tartan is worn by the Pipes and Drums element of the ADFA Band. The ADFA tartan, which was designed in Canberra and is registered on the International Scottish Register of Tartans (Number 10,856), comprises of the ADF and Australia’s national colours, reflective of the tri-service nature of the Band. The tartan is worn on formal occasions such as ceremonial events that take place at ADFA, and the local area. The Tartan will also be showcased on the international stage in Feb 16, when the massed Pipes and Drums of the ADF will wear this Tartan as the ADF Tartan in Melbourne for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

TRADITIONS OF THE ADFA BAND h ACM COMMITTEE CUSTOMS AND

TRADITIONS MEMBERThe Customs and Traditions Member of the Academy Cadet’s Mess is responsible for the maintenance of all ceremonial items within the responsibility of the mess, as well as administrating Dining In Nights and the commemoration of our fallen graduates and trainee officers. It is through this role that the customs and traditions, which the ACM has adopted throughout its history, are promoted and protected.

h DINING IN NIGHTS AND TABLE OF THE FALLENThe Dining In Nights at ADFA, due to the tri-service nature of the events, serve as a platform for many different traditions and customs to be displayed which date all the way back to the Duke of Wellington in the early 1800s. For example, the passing of the port is done differently in each service, with the Navy not letting it leave the table, whereas the Air Force must keep the port in the air at all times. Of particular importance and interest is the tradition for the ‘Table for the Fallen’, which has a very unique and specific set up. Every item and procedure, right down to the colour of the ribbon and candle and the sprinkling of salt grains on the plate has a specific symbolic meaning.

h FALLEN TRAINEE OFFICER AND GRADUATE COMMEMORATION AND CEREMONIES

One of the most important and meaningful regular events held in the mess is the memorial services for fallen graduates – both Australian service members and internationals. These ceremonies provide the trainee officer body and staff with the opportunity to remember the sacrifices of those whom have walked where we walk and then died on active service for Australia or for their respective home nations, in the case of foreign cadets. They are held in front of the Roll of Honour in the Cadet’s Mess on the anniversary of the member’s passing, and involve the reading of the service member’s biography and the placing of a wreath.

The inscription above the Roll of Honour reads: “Guardians of the Country: In death they know new life” and was dedicated in August 2011. Additionally, the Memorial Wall adjacent to the Parade Ground commemorates those members who died whilst at the Academy. The inscription above the wall reads: “Their past speaking to our present” and was dedicated in May 2011.

TRADITIONS OF THE ACADEMY CADETS MESS

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TRADITIONS OF PARADES AT ADFA

i CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE PARADE

Since its inception, ADFA has held a Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) Parade. The CDF Parade is a milestone event in an individual’s time at ADFA as it marks the successful competition of Year One Familiarisation Training. Year One trainee officers are officially welcomed to ADFA by their peers at the Parade. The Reviewing Officer is the Chief of the Defence Force and the parade is held in his name.

g GRADUATION AWARDS

A number of prestigious awards are presented to Year Three officer cadets and midshipmen at the annual Graduation Parade. The Commander-in-Chief medal, presented by the Governor-General, the Chief of the Defence Force Sword of Honour for Leadership, and the Returned and Services League Sword of Honour for Service, presented by the Vice Chief of the Defence Force. The Chief of Navy, Army and Air Force prizes are presented by the respective Service Chiefs. The Awards are a testament to ADFA’s tri-service environment.

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GOING GLOBAL: INTERNATIONAL TRIPS FOR TRAINEE OFFICERSBy OFFCDT Zoe Corcoran

Throughout the year many trainee officers had the opportunity to travel overseas for various activities. This has ranged from visiting foreign military academies to representative duties for ANZAC Day and military study tours.

Military academy visits were undertaken in countries including Singapore, Japan, China, the United States of America, Indonesia and South Korea.

“Singapore was a great experience that offered me a chance to learn and work in a foreign military environment. The networks created and knowledge gained will last with me throughout my career,” said OFFCDT John Hensman who visited the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute.

In addition, OCDT Adam Gregg took part in the third McDonald Cadet Leadership Conference; an annual leadership conference sponsored by the U.S. Secretary of Veterans’ Affairs, at the United States Military

Academy, West Point. This gave OCDT Gregg the opportunity to participate in team-based, experiential and analytical exercises that bolster leadership skills, foster critical thinking and develop potential strategies for addressing pressing global issues.

For ANZAC Day, the Academy’s Precision Drill Team travelled to the Solomon Islands to conduct representational duties by providing a Catafalque party for the Dawn Service. This gave the members exposure to the history and culture of the Solomon Islands by seeing key battle spaces where the U.S.A and Japanese engaged in conflict throughout World War II.

Officer cadets and midshipmen also had the opportunity to embark on overseas trips to complement their studies through UNSW Canberra. This year’s Battlefield Study Tour travelled to Europe, through Poland, Germany and Austria, in order to retrace the Nazi regime’s legacy. Similarly, the UNSW

Canberra Indonesian Studies Language Tour (ISLST) toured Yogjakarta, Indonesia for a week to engage in study at Universitas Gadjah Mada. This trip allowed the students to experience Indonesian culture, as well as learn and use their Indonesian skills on a day-to-day basis.

Overall, the experiences offered by international trips have proven to be invaluable to the development of the officer cadets and midshipmen, benefiting them in both aspects of their military and academic development.

OFFCDT Brian Duane at the Japan National Defence Academy CAPT Erem, MIDN Hunter and OFFCDT Hensman visiting The Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute 46 47

Throughout their military training at ADFA, officer cadets and midshipmen undertake leadership challenges in order to test the leadership skills acquired through military training, in a practical setting.

Leadership Challenge III (LCIII) saw two six day rotations of Year Three officer cadets and midshipmen deploy to the Captains Flat Training Area during May in order to afford trainee officers the opportunity to practice leadership, followership and teamwork in a politically and ethically complex environment.

The individual’s assessment on LCIII equates to 50 percent of their final leadership mark at the Academy. Each trainee officer was assessed on the demonstration of the ADFA values (Courage, Respect, Integrity, Service and Professionalism) during their lead, in

which they were required to deal with demands from hypothetical opposing political and indigenous groups.

Throughout the scenario, staff would create extra challenges and requirements to place greater strain on decision makers. Overall the activity taught several important lessons of leadership and ethics that are invaluable in an ever-growing operationally complex environment, one that the role of the strategic soldier is becoming increasingly prominent.

Overall, the leadership challenges held annually are an important part of ADFA’s training continuum as it tests the accumulated leadership skill of each officer cadet and midshipmen, gradually increasing the complexity and difficulty each year.

THE FINAL CHALLENGE

By OCDT Shaun Gill and OCDT Allison Wilson

OFFCDT Alex Cavanagh and OFFCDT Amy Princehorn discussing their plans

Officer cadets and midshipmen patrolling their boundaries

Trainee officers during Leadership Challenge IIIOCDT Zac Evans delivers his orders

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Homelessness in Australia is not a well known or a well discussed issue. Yet each night in Australia approximately 110,000 people do not have a home to sleep in. The St Vincent De Paul Society has been raising awareness for this issue through a campaign known as the

‘CEO Sleep out’. This year a number of high-ranking Australian Defence Force (ADF) members participated in the CEO sleep-out, including the Commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy, Air Commodore Alan Clements.

To show our support and assist in fundraising, a number of ADFA staff and trainee officers also slept out in the cold. Together we assisted the Commandant and other CEO’s with generating $325,000, which will be used to support those who don’t always have a roof over their heads each night.

OCDT Zac Hucker, the Cadet-In-Charge of the event, said,

“It was an eye-opening experience. I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to assist with the running of such a significant event.”

CEO SLEEPOUTBy OCDT Zac Hucker VECC’S IN 2015

By OFFCDT Danielle Jorgensen

What a year it was for Vocational Extra Curricular Clubs (VECCs) within the Academy. The formation of new clubs allowed for greater opportunities for all to become part of ADFA culture. With some clubs disbanding, and others reclassified into sports, 2015 certainly experienced change on the VECC front.

Notably, the birth of the ADFA Titans, ADFA Gaming and Simulation VECC and the 4WD VECC have found there place within the Academy, offering those the chance to partake in activities of similar interest. The ADFA Titans – Strength and Conditioning VECC exists alongside its ‘rival’ ADFA Crossfit, in providing a social structure for the thriving Olympic power-lifting community within ADFA. Having already hosted a number of internal competitions, the ADFA Titans have been able to challenge its members to determine who is the biggest and strongest amongst officer cadets and midshipmen.

It isn’t often the Academy adds to its extensive sporting club collection. However, due to the recent recognition of Ultimate Frisbee as an Olympic sport, ADFA has followed suit allowing for it to join amongst the prestige of ADFA sports clubs. While the ADFA Sloths Ultimate Frisbee team may not be setting any records in

the Olympic Games any time soon, their reclassification has brought the fledgling club great pride.

In 2015, the Academy’s VECCs went above and beyond, representing ADFA within the wider community. The Community Service VECC raised awareness and money for causes important to Defence through participation at the City to Surf, the Australian Mardi Gras and Relay for Life. Of course, there are a number of other activities and events that add to the significant work undertaken by CSV in building rapport and reputation within the community.

Important to note is the efforts of the Adventure Training VECC, offering incredible opportunities to their members that regular university students could only dream of. This year alone club members have been able to rock climb the Blue Mountains of Victoria, recreate the steps of their forbearers on the Kokoda trail, SCUBA dive in Fiji, and learn snow survival tools essential for mountaineering at Mount Kosciusko.

This isn’t to say that other VECCs within the Academy haven’t had their limelight. The Performing Arts Company put on a show unlike any other in previous years, displaying their

musical prowess in their rendition of FAME! defying all expectations. The Debating Team represented ADFA in Sydney, completing at the Australasian Inter-University Debating Competition against a number of international teams. The Academy’s Precision Drill Team too performed a number of demonstrations within the community, namely at the UNSW Australia Open Day in Sydney, displaying to all where the better UNSW campus lies. Most remarkably, whilst new and still finding their feet as a VECC within the Academy, the ADFA Board Riders have held a vast array of activities. From snow trips to wakeboarding and surfing, this VECC has established itself well within the Academy’s collection.

The VECCs within the Academy have offered its members a vast array of unique experiences. If 2015 is anything to go by, it can be expected that VECC’s and their contribution to ADFA’s culture will continue to offer opportunities unlike any other.

Representing Defence senior leadership at the CEO Sleepout, Deputy Chief of Army, MAJGEN Rick Burr, Commandant ADFA, AIRCDRE Alan Clements and Head Joint Enablers, MAJGEN Simone Wilkie

MIDN Richardson mid skydive with the Adventure Training Club

Officer cadets and midshipmen participate in an ADFA version of the CEO Sleepout

ADFA trainee officers with the Deputy Chief of Army, MAJGEN Rick Burr and Head Joint Enablers, MAJGEN Simone Wilkie

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Warrant Officer Class One William Maher, OAM is the Academy Sergeant Major (ASM) at ADFA. WO1 Maher joined the ADF in 1981 and was allocated to the Royal Australian Infantry Corps (RAINF). After serving in the 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment and then as an Infantry Instructor at the School of Infantry, he later went on to successfully complete selection for the Special Air Service Regiment and was subsequently posted there in 1988.

He has enjoyed a wonderful career that has included many exchanges and postings, which culminated in his appointment as the Special Operations Headquarters Command Sergeant Major in 2010. Following his role at Special Operations Headquarters, WO1 Maher was posted to his current position at ADFA in late 2013. He has seen the remarkable transition that ADFA has undergone over the last three years. WO1 Maher has been a prominent supporter of many causes throughout his tenure, but none more so than White Ribbon.

WO1 Maher reflects on his current role, some of the unique and defining experiences of his career as well as advice for junior leaders of the ADF.

PARTING WORDS FROM THE ACADEMY SERGEANT MAJORBy MIDN Lachlan Vidler

What is the role of the ADFA Academy Sergeant Major?

The ASM is the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer here at ADFA. They have gone through the ranks as a non-commissioned officer and the position is tri-service, rotating every three years. My duty statement comes directly from the Commandant (COMDT) and is very broad. It allows me to really try and concentrate on the health, welfare, morale and discipline of not only the trainee officers, but also across the whole staff body. To be effective at my job I really have to be engaged with as many people across the Academy as I can, whether that is trainee officers, postgraduates or staff, just so I can get a feel of how everything is going. I am then able to advise the COMDT, even if that means that I have to be the bearer of good

or bad news. It is definitely a very privileged position and it is something that I am very grateful to be in.

As somebody who has risen through the enlisted ranks, what do you think is the key to success as a junior officer in the ADF?

I believe that one of the key successes is to be yourself and do what you believe is right. This is especially true for the young officers who come through ADFA, who are very smart people and have been hand selected to be here, they often have the knowledge but have doubts on how to apply it. You need to listen to advice, take it in, and be prepared to make decisions, but know that sometimes those decisions won’t be popular. I also think that as a junior leader you need to take every opportunity that you have to be in a

leadership role and learn from them. You also need understand that you will make mistakes, but the important thing is that you learn from them and not do them again. It definitely is a balance though. Another really big key to success is keeping your subordinates informed. They will do almost anything you ask of them but they just need to understand why they are doing it. My final tip would be to really get to know your subordinates. Getting to know as much as possible about them will be a huge help in monitoring their welfare, but also getting to know their strengths and weaknesses.

ASMs OF ADFAWO1 W.J BURNS, OAM 04 Feb 85 – 10 Dec 87

WOFF M.J. FENWICK11 Dec 87 – 13 Dec 90

WOQMG G.A. MUSTOW14 Dec 90 – 17 Dec 93

WO1 P.J. ROSEMOND, OAM18 Dec 93 – 05 Dec 96

WOFF R.J. ELEY06 Dec 96 – 09 Dec 99

WONPC M.J.P WILSON 09 Dec 99 – 12 Dec 02

WO1 K.J. WOODS, OAM 13 Dec 02 – 17 Dec 03

WO1 S. GRIFFITHS, OAM18 Dec 03 – 15 Dec 06

WOFF R.J. CHAVASSE, CSM16 Dec 06 – 18 Jan 08

WOFF P.H. EVANS19 Jan 08 – 11 Jan 09

WOFF M. LAWRENCE12 Jan 09 – 10 Dec 10

WO D. DEVLIN13 Dec 10 – 13 Jan 13

WO1 W. MAHER, OAM14 Jan 13 – Current

The final Parade, WO1 Bill Maher ends his career with the ADF on a high note at the ADFA Graduation Parade.

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Joining the Defence Force at 19 is a huge step in any young adults life, what has motivated you to remain in the Australian Army for over 30 years?

I never thought I would be in the Army for thirty years. When I joined, there were two out of my entire platoon that opted to sign on for six years instead of three. The recruiting Warrant Officer tried to convince me into signing on for six years, but I refused, I just wanted to do the three years to get away from the Cootamundra country area and I thought, “I want to do three years and then I’ll get out.” So I’m really quite surprised that I’m still here after thirty-four years. The motivation has definitely been the camaraderie of the job. I’ve had personal and professional challenges along the way, but your family support helps you to maintain the work and life balance and for that I have been incredibly lucky.

What tips could you give the younger servicemen and women on maintaining a work and life balance?

One of the important things is to be able to leave work at work as much as you can. My background in Special Forces meant that a lot of the time you just couldn’t talk about some of the things outside of work, which made

it easier when I went home. I’ve been really fortunate that for most of my life, my wife and I have had many civilian friends and defence people who didn’t work in the same areas that I did. This really helped me in not needing to think about work when I went home as much. My biggest tip is that if you’re going out with friends and family and you’re constantly talking about work, it can be pretty draining on them too, so as much as possible try and leave work at work.

You’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in a number of foreign exchanges including to 22 SAS in the UK and 1st Special Forces Group in the US, can you tell me about some of the highlights while on these exchanges.

The 22 SAS, UK exchange was more luck than merit. We had just come back from a training exercise for six weeks and I was late leaving work one day when I ran into my Officer Commanding (OC). He told me that he had just received a request for a four man patrol to go to 22 SAS in 10 days time and the OC said, “We’re not going to send guys away in 10 days time when they’ve just come back from six weeks away” and I told him that my patrol was ready to go! So we ended

up going across for about four and a half months to the UK. We spent a few weeks training in the UK before we were sent to Belize in Central America for further training in Jungle Warfare and Water Training.

The 1st Special Forces Group or as they are more commonly known as, the Green Berets was a two year exchange and it was incredibly competitive so I feel quite lucky to have gotten it. I was able to take my wife, my daughter who was nine, and my son who was six for the whole posting. I was in a water team with the Green Berets based out of Fort Lewis and it was an amazing experience. There are 38,000 troops there, so it was a huge base that had shopping centres, 10 fuel stations and a seven storey hospital, just the scale of it was enormous.

I was in a water team at the time, for two years, and each person had a specific role and my speciality in that team was weapons. I was lucky enough to go to quite a few places including Thailand, Mexico and Panama but the highlight was definitely Laos. We went there to teach de-mining to the Laotians and it was all civilian clothing because of the sensitivity of the Americans teaching them de-mining.

“LEADERS BECOME GREAT, NOT BECAUSE OF THEIR POWER, BUT BECAUSE OF THEIR ABILITY TO EMPOWER OTHERS” JOHN MAXWELL

That was an amazing experience for the few months we were there, as well as being the last military team teaching them what we were, when now days its all civilianised.

Have you had a favourite deployment during your time in the military?

For a long time in the late 80’s and 90’s we had an amazing period of peace. We did a lot of exercises, we trained really hard, and that set an amazing foundation for the ADF, and particularly the Australian Army. As funny as it sounds, my favourite deployment would have to be East Timor. After having that amazing period of peace and training so hard, we finally got to deploy into a theatre where we were actually on operations again.

What advice do you have for the Army officer cadets who will be moving onto RMC after ADFA?

I hear all the time about how officer cadets are almost afraid to go across to RMC, and my advice would be; don’t be afraid. This is your final piece of training before you go out into the Army as future leaders, so look at it as that. Physical fitness is hugely important, not just at RMC but also as a junior officer. You also need to accept that you will get

some things wrong. Learn from it; admit you made a mistake and that you could have done things better. I suppose my last piece of advice is to learn as much as you can and get as much out of it. Also look at it as the last opportunity before you have the responsibility of being a junior commander.

This is your 34th year of service, what has been your proudest moment in uniform?

I did six or seven years in the regular Army at 1RAR up in Townsville, before going to the School of Infantry for 12 months. I realised that I was progressing up through the ranks quite quickly and I would probably be a Sergeant in six or seven years and I didn’t want to do that. In 1 RAR I served in the Reconnaissance Platoon who had a similar make up and role, on smaller scale, based on SASR tactics. I enjoyed working in small groups and being independent, so I thought I would have a go at completing the SASR selection course.

I trained for three and a half months for that selection course and the whole time I knew that it was going to be a life changing moment in my career if I passed. To then get through the selection course, eventually go on and

complete the reinforcement cycle and then finally be awarded the SASR beret was definitely the highlight of my career.

On behalf of the Academy, we would like to wish Warrant Officer Class 1 Maher all the best as he departs from his role at ADFA at the conclusion of 2015. We thank him for his courage, dedication and professionalism over his long and distinguished career, an inspiration for us all.

“YOU ALSO NEED TO ACCEPT THAT YOU WILL GET SOME THINGS WRONG. LEARN FROM IT; ADMIT YOU MADE A MISTAKE AND THAT YOU COULD HAVE DONE THINGS BETTER”

WO1 Bill Maher addresses the audience at ADFA’s White Ribbon Night event

ANZAC DAY 2002 “Rod & Bill M” WO1 Bill Maher on deployment

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A TASTE OF ARMY LIFEBy OCDT Benjamin May, OCDT Malcolm Cloete and OCDT Luke Hughes

This year the Australian Regular Army (ARA) Officer Cadets (OCDTs) at ADFA have been very busy. Across all three years they have learned new skill sets through the Single Service Training (SST’s) blocks and continued to improve on their existing skills.

For the Year One OCDTs, they passed their initial training in the form of Year One Familiarisation Training and continued on to SST 1A in July and SST 1B in November. SST 1A aims to further skills already learnt in the form of a weapons system package, navigation training, and field craft training, with a culmination field exercise. SST 1B similarly continues to develop OCDT’s in this training, however with a more specific focus on the introduction of infantry minor tactics. Whilst in barracks at ADFA, pre SST training is delivered by Year Two and Three mentors of respective squadrons to ease the transition into the SST continuum with ease.

Year Two OCDT’s have the ability to participate in a number of activities to help develop their individual leadership

and military skills. The SST continuum educates and trains OCDT’s on Army leadership skills and the various equipment and capabilities available to section, platoon and company level exercises. Additionally, Exercise ANZAC allows Year Two OCDT’s to participate in group problem solving activities with an Army focus, but also experience a variety of corps briefs, which helps decide potential future career paths. Later in the year OCDT’s participate in ‘Military Self Defence’, a course that teaches and practices safe and reliable protection techniques with and against a variety of weapons. Subsequently to this, the officer cadets travel to Puckapunyal to gain an exposure to the Royal Australian Armoured Corps and the Royal Australian Artillery Corps through briefs and demonstrations, before visiting the Army Logistics Training Centre in Bandiana.

For Year Three OCDTs, they started the year completing their fifth SST, which is considered the Army’s last preparatory training exercise in the lead up to their summative assessment prior to attending the Royal Military

College – Duntroon. This assessment assesses OCDT’s against all the training learnt over their three years at the Academy, including navigation techniques and infantry minor tactics. Year Three OCDT’s also have the opportunity to participate in another motivational exercise and are paired with a Lieutenant from a range of corps at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville.

The Army Regimental Dining-In Night (DIN) was yet another opportunity to develop cohesiveness and enthusiasm towards the service. This year’s event was held at the Australian War Memorial to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War 1.

“It was really great to have all the ADFA Army members come together for the night and celebrate our service and heritage that we are all so eager to learn more about,” said OCDT Smart.

Overall the ADFA ARA OCDT’s had another highly successful and progressive year all-round and look forward to continuing training at ADFA or RMC next year.

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE TRAINEE OFFICERS IN 2015By OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

2015 has been an exciting year for Royal Australian Air Force Officer Cadets (OFFCDT) at the Academy. During the Centenary of Military Aviation Air Show at RAAF Williams – Point Cook on 1 Mar 14, it was with great excitement and pride that the RAAF launched its new, service wide, dark blue and metal grey General Purpose Uniform (GPU), specifically designed for RAAF personnel – replacing the familiar green and brown Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniform, generally attributed to the Australian Army.

“The purpose of the GPU is to provide a unique and easily identifiable Air Force presence to the Australian Defence and civilian communities, consistent with the Air Force’s distinctive identity and still effective in meeting our service requirements,” said AIRMSHL Geoff Brown, former Chief of Air Force.

The excitement and newfound pride in the new uniform extended to the current RAAF officer cadets at the Academy, all of whom quickly grew accustomed to their new appearance.

“It really is great to finally see the RAAF launch its own unique uniform, which gives us a unique identity that will stand us apart from Army and Navy, as well as within civilian communities during humanitarian tasks and Defence assistance,” said OFFCDT Seymour upon receiving his first set of GPUs.

Apart from the launch of the new GPU, RAAF officer cadets across the Academy participated in several Air Force related activities throughout the year. One of these events was the RAAF Ground Defence Training, in which Year Three officer cadets learned basic tactics and theories behind the defence of ground based RAAF assets in theatres of operation, such as airstrips. Essential skills involved in ground defence that was covered during the training included gas mask drills, sandbagging, and basic fire and movement with the F-88 Austeyr.

In July, Year Two officer cadets undertook Motivational Training and travelled around Australia to visit major RAAF Bases such as Richmond and Williamtown. This trip provided the

opportunity to learn more about the roles of different Squadrons and Groups within the RAAF, as well as gaining a first-hand experience in their specific specialisations, with some prospective pilots lucky enough to have the opportunity to ride in a F/A 18 Hornet.

RAAF Dining-in Night was a great success this year, OFFCDT Bell recounted the good food and atmosphere on the night.

“It was great to see all the RAAF personnel come together, get to know more about each other and have a good time. It is definitely an ADFA tradition to maintain in the future.”

2015 has been an exciting year for RAAF officer cadets within the Academy, with many more experiences awaiting them in their future careers within the RAAF.

OFFCDT’s Krippner and Hensman on RAAF Single Service Training

OFFCDT’s Mitchelle and Poole on RAAF Single Service Training OFFCDT Sidonio outside an Air Force hanger

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The midshipmen of ADFA were involved in a wide range of activities and training opportunities throughout 2015. The opportunities and events contributed to single service pride and enhanced desire to return to the Fleet upon completion of their studies at ADFA. This summary provides a snapshot of all the activities that ADFA midshipmen were involved in throughout 2015.

Single Service Training In Jan and Feb 15, approximately 30 Year Three Maritime Warfare Officers (MWOs) joined HMAS Canberra for their Single Service Training (SST) period. The MWOs spent five weeks in HMAS Canberra at sea and alongside, completing the ADFA Mariner Skill Journal. This journal is a training aid developed by HMAS Watson to ensure ADFA MWOs maintain their seamanship skills learnt during Phase One and Two of the Junior Warfare Officers Application Course.

Throughout the same period, 12 Year Three Navy Pilots, Aviation Warfare Officers and Maritime Logistics Officers posted to HMAS Albatross for the SST period. These members gained valuable refresher training from Training Authority Aviation (TA-AVN) and Fleet Logistics Support Element–Aviation. Some of the activities included flights in both the ADF’s Multi Role Helicopter 90 Taipan (MRH-90) and different fixed wing aircraft.

The Year Two midshipmen were not disappointed in their own SST Period, which saw 35 of them return to HMAS Creswell. This six-week period was a trial leadership, self-development and adventure training program specifically designed for ADFA midshipmen. The highlights of the course included 10 days of sailing on Jervis Bay, tours of HMAS Canberra and general immersion back into the Navy.

The final activity conducted throughout the January and February SST period was the inaugural New Entry Officer Course (NEOC) Initial Training Period (ITP) mentoring program (NMP). The ITP NMP saw five Year Three midshipmen return to HMAS Creswell to fulfill the role of an Assistant Divisional Officer throughout the NEOC ITP; which is the first four weeks of training for all new entry officers. The five members all gained a wealth of experience from conducting assistant divisional officer duties whilst on the NMP and there has been considerable interest for 2016.

ANZAC CentenaryADFA midshipmen represented the Academy at local, national and international events throughout the ANZAC Centenary commemoration. A large contingent of midshipmen attended the National Dawn service at the Australian War Memorial along with over 120,000 people, before marching down ANZAC Parade in the National March. Others attended marches and services in regional towns throughout the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales. Most notably, however, was MIDN Kylea Jones, who along with two other Year Three trainee officers attended the ANZAC Day Centenary Commemorations in Turkey.

“I could not have felt more proud to be a member of the Australian Defence Force… Today we remember the sacrifice of those who came before us and never forget the importance of building peace and friendship. Lest we forget,” said MIDN Jones.

A YEAR ASHORE AT ADFA By MIDN Jedd Goggin

Australian Naval Institute Vernon Parker OrationOn 26 May 15, Dr Brendan Nelson delivered the Australian Naval Institute’s annual Vernon Parker Oration to a crowd of over 130 people that included 15 midshipmen from ADFA. The midshipmen who attended were all moved by Dr Nelson’s speech and seized the opportunity to talk to such a respected and distinguished Australian. It was also a fantastic opportunity to speak with Commanding Officers and former shipmates who were in attendance.

Indonesia language exchange Between January and July, MIDN’s Scott Percival and Teiah McKee, who are majoring in Indonesian studies, had the opportunity of an exchange posting to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) School of Languages in Jakarta, Indonesia. The opportunity provided a unique experience to study, learn about the culture and interact regularly with members of the TNI. Whilst in Jakarta, the two members were involved in events such as the commemoration of the loss of HMAS Perth and USS Houston during the battle of the Sunda Strait. Additionally, the members were able to travel around Indonesia and experience the similarities and differences across the archipelago.

Exercise Talisman Saber 15 Between 06 and 15 Jul 15, MIDN Dean Gilbert embarked HMAS Perth to take part in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Operating closely with the United States Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy, MIDN Gilbert was able to consolidate prior training and further develop his mariner skills as an Officer of the Watch during a high tempo period of naval warfare exercises. The highlights of Talisman Sabre were operating in a multinational and tri-service exercise conducting air

warfare serials as well as a 5-inch live fire exercise. MIDN Gilbert reflected on the experience stating that it certainly re-ignited the ambition to re-join the Fleet in 2016 upon graduating ADFA at the end of 2015.

Submarine Selection Course and Submarine Familiarisation CourseBetween 06 and 10 Jul 15, nine MIDN traveled to HMAS Stirling to participate in the Submarine Familiarisation Course (SFC), whilst four members undertook the Submarine Selection Course (SSC). The SSC is a prerequisite for employment within the submarine service as a submariner. Both SSC and SFC members toured the submarine escape and rescue training center, submarine control room simulators, HMAS Sheean, as well as undertaking briefs on living in Western Australia and life within submarines. The SSC members continued on to undertake oral, written and social assessments as well as psychological, physical and medical tests. The four members undertaking the SSC were all successful.

School of Ship Survivability and SafetyBetween 13 and 17 Jul 15, six members travelled to HMAS Cerberus to undertake the Basic Combat Survivability Course. The training included firefighting, leak, stop and repair and chemical, nuclear and biological warfare countermeasures. The opportunity to refresh the skills that are trained daily on all HMA ships was invaluable for all members who attended the course. In addition to refreshing skills, the course also provided an opportunity for the midshipmen to interact with a class of recruits from HMAS Cerberus who were undertaking their Initial Military Training.

Navy Mess Dinner The annual ADFA Trafalgar Mess Dinner was held on Fri 16 Oct 15 and was a resounding success. The guest of honour was the Chief of Joint Operations, Vice-Admiral David Johnston AM, RAN who spoke about the pace of current operations the ADF is involved in around the world, and the exciting new capabilities that are being built, delivered, and developed. In addition to this, he also spoke about what the RAN will be operating in Australia and around the world upon graduation from ADFA. Prior to the Trafalgar Mess Dinner, midshipmen performed a traditional ceremonial sunset and the ADFA band, pipes and drums performed a beat to quarters.

Last Post CeremoniesThroughout 2015, four midshipmen from Years One and Three volunteered as readers and observers for the Australian War Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony. The Last Post Ceremony marks the daily closing of the Australia War Memorial. The ceremony includes the national anthem, laying of wreaths and floral tributes, and the reading of one story from the Roll of Honour by an ADF member. The reader then recites the Ode and the Last Post is sounded. The ceremony is regularly attended by a number of visitors, local schools, veterans and current serving members. From the midshipmen who have read at the Last Post Ceremony, all have reflected on the significance of reading the story of a fallen Australian sailor, soldier or airman or woman, as well as reciting the Ode on the stairs above the Pool of Reflection.

Clearance divers fast rope onto the ADFA Main Parade Ground from an MRH-90 during ADFA Open Day 2015

HMAS Perth leading warships USS Bonhomme Richard, USS Ashland, HMAS Arunta and USS Preble during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2015

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TESTING YOUR BOUNDARIES: FITNESS EXCELLENCE By OFFCDT Ramon Mojica

14 Sep 15 marked the start of the Fitness Excellence Challenge; an intensive battle PT course that acts as the culmination of a year’s worth of PT at the Academy. The Fitness Excellence Challenge is an individual event, and tests the mental and physical capacity of each and every trainee officer in his or her competency in battle PT.

The course consisted of multiple components that were to be performed consecutively – tyre flips, jerry can carry, leopard crawling, two vertical rope climbs, an extensive pack march up and down Mount Pleasant, one round of the RMC obstacle course and a 50m swim. To add to the already challenging course, officer cadets and midshipmen are timed, with the results accumulated

at the end of the event. The male and female winners of the event are then eternalised in ADFA history, their names added to the Fitness Excellence Plaque, which currently hangs in the Indoor Sports Centre.

OCDT Ian Russell commented on this year’s Fitness Excellence challenge, noting that this year was especially tough, with the course redesigned to be longer, and more physically demanding than previous years. Indeed, this year’s Fitness Excellence Challenge brought out the best in every trainee officer, providing all who participated with a sense of great achievement, whilst simultaneously reinforcing the ADFA values of courage and professionalism.

OCDT Cloete en route to Mount PleasantMIDN Rushford completing the monkey run

OFFCDT Church, MIDN Roberts and CAPT Chen leopard crawling

Officer cadets and Midshipmen completing

the barbed wire obstacleOCDT Storm and OFFCDT Colaco begin the pack march

CPL Horder discusses the course with 23 Division

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h MIDN JOSH GORRIE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY

I grew up in the Shoalhaven region close to both HMAS Albatross and HMAS Creswell, which exposed me to the Navy and aviation from a very young age. Throughout my schooling, my passion grew, and eventually translated into me wanting to join the small, specialised team that is the Royal Australian Navy Fleet Air Arm as a pilot. The dynamic flying environment offered only in the navy developed my

aspirations, and I can’t wait to learn how to land on a bobbing cork in the middle of the ocean. It is humbling to know that all the skills and training that I acquire will contribute to an end goal that is much bigger than myself.

g OCDT MICHELLE PRIOR AUSTRALIAN ARMY

It has been an interest of mine since seeing advertisements of the Australian Defence Force to join. After completing a year at a civilian university, I felt as though I was not challenging myself in the ways that I had hoped. I joined the Australian Army in 2014 because I believe that the work environment and disciplined lifestyle, along with the

team orientated drive associated with the Army, will allow me to improve and create skills that would benefit me as a person and more importantly contribute toward this respected profession.

WHY WE SERVE By MIDN Matthew Newman and OFFCDT Kate Gellini

h A/CDT TEERANAN CHAROENSOOK ROYAL THAI AIR FORCE

It’s been more than five years since I joined the Armed Forced Academy Preparatory School in the service of Royal Thai Air Force. It is an honour to serve my country, regardless of how difficult it could become. By spending time here in ADFA, I will bring

back every point I find effective and beneficial to apply in my future career where possible. Our nations have done a great deal for us and it is time we returned the favour.

h OFFCDT BAYLEY AMOS ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE

Ever since I can remember I have dreamed of one day becoming a pilot. I discovered early on that the Air Force would offer me the most exciting and rewarding method of doing so and would expose me to experiences and insights that I couldn’t enjoy in civil aviation. I am proud of the opportunity I have been given to lead and defend my

country and hope to honour the legacy of those who have served previously. Having no family members involved in the military, so far it has been a unique experience for me, but one that I have thoroughly enjoyed.

g OCDT JOSHUA MORETE NEW ZEALAND ARMY

I decided to join the New Zealand Army because of a couple of personal goals and the lifestyle the military offered. I wanted to be active whilst pushing myself physically and mentally, so joining the Army seemed like a logical choice. Whilst studying at ADFA, I am constantly challenged to be my best academically and militarily. I

recognise that the opportunity to come to Australia to complete my training is the product of the connections forged between our ANZAC nations on the shores of Gallipoli and that something that I will carry with me throughout my career and personal life.

g MIDN JILLIAN OMAC PHILIPPINE NAVY

When I was young I used to see members of the Armed Forces conducting campaigns against insurgencies and helping the community through its Civil Military Operations in my hometown. Since then, I was inspired and was encouraged to join the Armed Forces of the Philippines hoping to serve the people and protect the country from the different threats we face. Later on,

I realised that my service can be of a greater help if I choose the Philippine Navy as my Branch of Service, since the Philippines is an archipelagic nation. Moreover, the Navy offers a lot of opportunities as it consists of different components including the Philippine Fleet, the Naval Air Group, and the Philippine Marine Corps.

Tree of Knowledge

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A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE: AN INTERVIEW WITH SQNLDR THOMAS By MIDN Jerome Dillon-Baker

Having joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in 1993, SQNLDR Thomas served 11 years as an airman before becoming a commissioned officer. He is currently the Officer Commanding of Bravo Squadron. He has experienced a variety of postings and deployments during his 22 years of service in the ADF and I had the opportunity to speak to SQNLDR Thomas and find out more about his career in the RAAF and his views on leadership.

Why did you decide to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF)?I had a couple of reasons for joining the ADF. My grandfather was a navigator in World War II and my grandmother was in the Army. As I grew up I would be told stories of their time during the war, such as when my grandfather was shot down and subsequently evaded the Japanese in the jungles of New Guinea and my Nan driving supply trucks for the war effort. This obviously inspired me to join the forces in some capacity.

I don’t know what prompted it but one day at school I decided I wanted to join the Air Force. I was in the Air Training Corp at the time, now known

as Air Force Cadets, and I enjoyed the discipline, camaraderie and history of the Air Force. I specifically enjoyed the field aspects of the training and weapons handling which is why I chose my career path as an Airfield Defence Guard (ADG).

What were some of the challenges you faced during initial training in the Air Force as well as your training as an Airfield Defence Guard?I went through Number 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) in 1993. Our course was made up solely of ADG trainee’s and we had an ADG instructor,

so we were pushed pretty hard though it was enjoyable and a unique experience. I think it is the same with any initial training, whether it be Year One Familiarisation Training here at ADFA, 1RTU or the RAAF’s Officer Training School, it is just that ‘in your face’, full on training which everyone goes through when they initially join the ADF. That initial training plays an important role in not only educating new members in the nuances of the organisation but also in making people earn and respect their position. It needs to be challenging and I feel I definitely earnt my position. A significant challenge was that I had to adapt to the fact that my standards were no longer dictated by myself but

instead by the whole group, which can be hard coming from school where it is all about you. All of a sudden you are working as part of a flight or a patrol and you have to work as a team in a high-pressure environment, it can be quite a change.

What led you to change over from airmen to officer and what are the differences in mentality between the two?It was not an immediate decision. I had reached the rank of Sergeant (SGT) as an ADG and was lucky enough to have some amazing postings. I had done all the operational stuff and participated in some spectacular training and events and following that I had a posting as an instructor at the Security and Fire School (RAAFSFS). That was very tough period but I got a lot out of it and learnt a huge amount about leadership and training. I subsequently spent some time working at Defence Force Recruiting (DFR), which allowed me to have a say in the type of people that

were joining the organisation that I was so passionate about. By that point I had been in for 11 years and I knew that the postings that were available to me in the near future were not what I was looking for.

I knew I wanted to study at university and wanted to try my hand at management type work, and having spent that time at DFR I finally saw all the options that I had available to me. I heard about the outstanding advanced student program available at ADFA, so I applied for that and luckily enough I got approval for the change over.

On the idea of difference in mentality between officers and airman, I feel that it is much easier to comment on the similarities between the two fields as opposed to the differences. In my experience, regardless of rank, everyone in the ADF has a knuckle down, hard working attitude; they just crack on and tackle the job at hand.

The only difference is the way you approach a task. As an airman and even as a junior officer my approach was very hands on, I would just get the job done myself. However in my current role I have to take a step back and look at the task with the bigger picture in mind, allowing others to look after the hands on aspect. You become that interface between senior command.

Is your role as a leader at ADFA different to other leadership roles?ADFA is a very high profile institution and we are looking after the health, welfare, morale and discipline, as well as training of young men and women ranging from 17 to 23 years

old. They are paid generously and live in a communal environment which, coming straight from school for most, is a big change. As a 41-year-old father of two teenage daughters sometimes it is a challenge relating to the group of people that I am responsible for but I have learnt a lot about adjusting my style of leadership to suit different situations.

Having said that, the fundamental ways you lead and manage people don’t change regardless of the situation. My number one principle is to understand your people, by knowing what motivates them and what they value. I am a big fan of values based leadership. If you understand your people and know what motivates them you can work out why they display the behaviours and attributes they do, and once you understand that, you can start to lead them in the right direction. I spend a lot of time trying to create an environment that allows the trainee officers to thrive, which includes allowing them to study to achieve the best grades they can, and allowing them to participate in sports and vocational extra curricular clubs, which plays a big part in their personal development.

“IF YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR PEOPLE AND KNOW WHAT MOTIVATES THEM YOU CAN WORK OUT WHY THEY DISPLAY THE BEHAVIOURS AND ATTRIBUTES THEY DO, AND ONCE YOU UNDERSTAND THAT, YOU CAN START TO LEAD THEM IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.”

SQNLDR Thomas in Adams Auditoriium

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AUSTRALIA’S FEDERATION GUARDBy The Academy Editors

Australia’s Federation Guard (AFG) was established in 2000 to provide the Australian Defence Force with a permanent ceremonial capability.

AFG participated in ceremonial activities on a grand scale in 2014, and celebrated its 15th birthday. A number of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and women returned from overseas trips to Gallipoli and Villers-Bretonnueux representing AFG, the Defence Force and Australia in honourable style.

AFG continue to keep busy preparing for further Centenary of ANZAC activities, which will see them undertake commitments across Australia and around the world.

Able Seaman Drummers, Alyse Macpherson (left) and Leah Aitken (right) partake in a Federation Guard precision drill demonstration at the ADF Careers Expo 2015, Tasmania

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Australia’s Federation Guard’s Precision Drill Team provides a display at the Australian Defence Force Academy’s White Ribbon Day event, where the Chief Executive Officer of White Ribbon Australia, Ms Libby Davies, announced ADFA as an accredited White Ribbon Workplace

The Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia His Excellency, General The Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, MC and Head Joint Enablers, MAJGEN Simone Wilkie celebrate Australia’s Federation Guard’s 15th birthday with Guard members

His Excellency Lieutenant General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae GNZM, QSO Governor General of New Zealand has a jovial exchange with the Officer Commanding, Australia’s Federation Guard, Major Francois Nozaic and Leading Aircraftwoman Tegan Brown during the inspection of the Guard at Government House, Canberra

Australia’s Federation Guardsman, Corporal Daniel Mayo, throws her rifle to Corporal Ricky Charaman as the Honour Guard prepares for a ceremony with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon Julie Bishop at the Tyne Cot Cemetery in Belgium

Australia’s Federation Guardsmen, Trooper David Nicolson at the ‘rest on arms’ position as part of a catafalque party on the Tyne Cot Cenotaph during the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day ceremony in Belgium

His Excellency, General, The Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove, AK MC (Retd), Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Her Excellency Lady Lynne Cosgrove lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded by Able Seaman Kerri-Anne Bradshaw of Australia’s Federation Guard at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra for ANZAC Day 2015

Australia’s Federation Guard on parade at the 2015 Remembrance Day National Ceremony

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The capstone event celebrating the completion of three years of military education and training and tertiary education for all Year Three officer cadets and midshipmen at ADFA was finally in sight with their participation in the Graduation Parade.

Alongside Year One and Year Two officer cadets and midshipmen, the members of ADFA’s graduating class celebrated their achievements with proud friends, family and ADFA staff as they marched on the parade ground for their final time. This year’s parade was reviewed by the Governor-General of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, MC.

Major awards were presented during the parade. OFFCDT Brian Duane was awarded the Commander in Chief’s Medal; the Chief of the Defence Force Sword of Honour for Leadership went to OCDT George Lynn and the RSL Sword of Honour was awarded to

OCDT Phoebe Sutherland. The three Chief of Service Prizes for Navy, Army and Air Force were awarded to MIDN Dean Glibert, OCDT Harry Wagner and OFFCDT Danielle Jorgsensen respectively for their outstanding performance in military and academic studies over three years.

The members of the graduating class of 2015 marked the end of their time at ADFA by throwing their caps in to air at the end of the parade, excitedly anticipating their futures ahead of them as leaders in the Australian Defence Force and international Defence Forces.

ADFA GRADUATION PARADEBy The Academy Editors

Officer cadets and midshipmen conduct a march past

The Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia His Excellency, General The Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, MC inspects the Parade

Army and Air Force helicopters conduct a fly past

International students in the ceremonial attire of their respective countries amongst Australian officer cadets and midshipmen

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The Graduating Class of 2015

The Chief of Air Force, AIRMSHL Gavin ‘Leo’ Davies presents OFFCDT Danielle Jorgensen with the Chief of Air Force prize

OCDT George Lynn and the graduating class at the 2015 Graduation Parade

The handover of the Governor-General’s Banner

Officer cadets and midshipmen at the 2015 Graduation Parade

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ATIOLA Paula TDS

AUSTIN Danielle Caitlin RAAF

BAADE Brenden Keith ARA

BAULD Edward RAN

BELL Matthew RAAF

BELTON James RAN

BEVAN Matt RAN

BRADY-WELSH Ruby RAAF

BRAYSHAW William John ARA

BROADBRIDGE Nicholas John ARA

BRONGER Jake Matthew ARA

BROWN Simon RAN

BROWN Tom ARA

BRUCKNER Zacharia ARA

BRUTON Matthew RAAF

BUDD Thomas ARA

BUXTON Shaun ARA

CAVANAGH Alexander William RAAF

CHALMERS Andrew RAAF

CHEE Sebastian RAN

CHHON Borey CAM A

CHITTHARAPHONG Kittinut RTAF

CHURCH Corey RAAF

CLARK Sam RAAF

CLOETE Malcolm Charles ARA

COGHLAN Sarah Louise ARA

COLACO Ariadne RAAF

COLMER James ARA

CROSS Rachel RAN

CROSSLEY Thomas RAN

CROWHURST Benjamin James ARA

DAVIES Jackson ARA

DAWES Harrison Conrad RAAF

DAWSON Thomas Henry ARA

DICKINSON William Henry RAN

DILETTOSO Pierce Vincent RAAF

DODDS Matthew James RAN

DONOHOE Liam Jaidan RAAF

DORNEY Jordan RAAF

DOWNEY John RAAF

DUANE Brian RAAF

DUNK Israel Whelan RAAF

DUNN-LOBBAN Andrew ARA

DZAFARULLAH Muhammad RMAF

ELLICK Daniel Douglas RAAF

ENDACOTT Alec Desmond ARA

ESTRELLA Iceal RPN

EVANS Zachary Matthew ARA

FIDELE-WEST Joshua David RAAF

FLYNN Kaitlin RAAF

FRENCH Xavier Robert RAAF

FRIEND Tyler James Baker RAAF

FULLER Caitlin RAN

GADD Luke David ARA

GALLAGHER Seamus ARA

GARNER Daniel Charles RAAF

GERVASONI Benjamin Grant RAAF

GILBERT Dean RAN

GILFEDDER Jack Douglas ARA

GILL Shaun Anthony ARA

GLASSON Dylan Beau ARA

GOGGIN Jedd RAN

GRANT Michael Beau RAN

GREEN Sebastian Gerard ARA

GREGG Adam ARA

GREY Joshua RAN

GRIFFITHS Callum David ARA

GUILMARTIN Leigh RAN

HA Andrew RAAF

HALES Tyson RAN

HANKIN Zack Taylor ARA

HARDEN Oran David Roland RAAF

HAYES James Daniel RAAF

HENDERSON Natasha Marie RAAF

HIGGINS Katherine Fiona ARA

HOOD Nicholas James ARA

HOWARD Daniel Thomas ARA

HUCKER Zachary ARA

HUGHES Luke ARA

HUMPHRIES Scott RAN

HUSH Dylan RAN

HUYNH John Huy Hoang ARA

ICKE Thomas Ralph RAN

IMODA Coen David RAAF

IRELAND Timothy Daniel RAAF

JAMES Declan Jack ARA

JAMES Natasha Ismailia ARA

JAN Mudassir PAFOR

JEFFERY Corey Keith ARA

JOHNSON Matthew Dallas ARA

JOHNSON Zachary St Clair RAN

JONES Alan Thomas RAN

JONES Kylea RAN

JONES Nicola RAAF

JORDAN Djena RAN

JORGENSEN Danielle Maree RAAF

KANE Patrick Adam RAAF

KER Peta Maree ARA

KERR Harrison RAAF

KING Katherine ARA

LADEWIG Jonathon ARA

LAIDLAW Jake RAN

LANCASTER Blake RAAF

LANGHAM Brent Maxwell ARA

LAWLER Ryan Alan RAAF

LAWRENCE Joshua Thomas ARA

LEVICK James Robert ARA

LEWIS Brendan RAN

LEWTHWAITE Jared ARA

LISZKA Jonathan Mathew RAN

LLOYD Dominic Evan ARA

LO Allen ARA

LOCH Jared Andrew ARA

LOWE Jonathon ARA

LUO Zhenlun Eugene RSAF

LYNN George Francis ARA

MAAT Jonathan ARA

MABARRACK Anthony Michael RAAF

MACDADE Bianca Monique RAAF

MACLEOD Jack Donald ARA

MAK Jesse Kai-Yu RAAF

MARAIS Nicolas John RAN

MAY Benjamin John ARA

MCDERMID Caitlin Jayne ARA

MCDERMOTT Mitchell Rhys ARA

MCEVEY Peter Anthony ARA

MCGEE Marc John RAAF

MCGRATH Andrew ARA

MCKEE Teiah Chantalle RAN

MCNIFF Ryan John RAAF

MEDEIRA Aaron RAAF

MEHTA Karan ARA

MEXTED Harrison RAAF

MILLARD Jaymee Zac ARA

MILNE Cameron ARA

MILOWSKI Jason Ryan RAAF

MINA Emily Jean RAAF

MITCHELL-FULLER Thomas RAAF

MORIARTY Erin Joy ARA

MORIARTY Sarah RAN

MORRISON Jacob Craig RAAF

MURPHY Hayden Kenneth ARA

MURPHY Jacob Joseph RAAF

NAK Matthew Ryan ARA

NANCE David RAAF

NASH Lloyd Adam Robin RAN

NEWBY Naithan Brent RAAF

NGUYEN Thien Kien RVA

NGUYEN Van Long RVA

NORTHEND Liam RAN

NUMDEE Piyanat RTA

O’HARA Bryce RAN

OLSON Luke RAN

O’ROURKE Jordan Talbot RAAF

OTHER-GEE Adam James ARA

OWEN Nathan RAAF

PARK Eshiyu RAAF

PATAKI Natasha RAN

PATON Mark RAAF

PEARCE Jacob RAAF

PERCIVAL Scott RAN

PETERS Thomas RAAF

PETERSEN Emma Louise RAAF

PHELPS Tobias RAN

PHILLIPS Richard RAN

PLUNKETT-GREGORY Kiaran ARA

PODGER Joseph William RAAF

PORTER Alexandra Victoria RAAF

PORTLOCK Christopher David ARA

PRATT Shaun Andrew ARA

PRINCEHORN Amy RAAF

PULLINEN Nicholas ARA

RAMSBOTHAM Nicholas James RAAF

REED Georgia Katherine ARA

RICHARDSON Kristopher RAN

RICHES Thomas Gordon RAAF

RILEY Tyrone Cordian ARA

ROBERTS Kai Bryn RAAF

ROBERTS Matthew RAN

ROBERTS-THOMSON Iain RAAF

ROBINSON Michael Josiah ARA

ROGERS Adam Nathan RAAF

RUSHFORD Grant RAN

RYALL Hannah Louise ARA

SANDERSON Matthew Stephen ARA

SCOUGALL Laura Kaitlin RAAF

SCRIMGEOUR Teagan RAAF

SEARLE Luke RAN

SERTORI Zachary Ryan RAAF

SHANKS George Lane ARA

SHAW Jack RAN

SHORTLAND Nicholas ARA

SIMPSON Michael Andrew RAAF

SKENE Michael Alexander RAAF

SMART Jack Walter George ARA

SMYTH Anthea Emmaline ARA

SOLOMON Brent RAN

SPENCER Aaron RAAF

STEVENS Chloe RAN

STILL Matthew James RAAF

STORM Bradley James ARA

STOTT Alexander John ARA

SUPIT Oscar John Toar ARA

SUTHERLAND Phoebe Grace ARA

SUWAN Rattanasin RTN

SWINDON Henry James ARA

TAYLOR Brandan RAN

TAYLOR Connor RAAF

TAYLOR Dylan ARA

TERZIMAN Anastassia ARA

THOMAS Tahali ARA

THOMPSON Danica RAN

THOMSON Daniel Gordon RAAF

THOMSON Ian ARA

THRELFALL Haiden ARA

TREWEEK Marcus James ARA

TURNER Lachlan Andrew RAN

TURNER Ryan James ARA

TURRILL Aaron Grant RAAF

UL ISLAM Zia PAFOR

VAN DEN BERG Michael James RAN

VASTA Xavier ARA

VINSON Matthew RAN

WADOOD Aamir PAFOR

WAGNER Harry Benjamin ARA

WALKER Mathew Ryan RAAF

WALTERS Bronson Slade ARA

WANG Jj ARA

WANG Kai ARA

WEBB Stewart Fredrick RAAF

WILBRAHAM John RAN

WILLCOX Claye Lindsay ARA

WILSON Alison ARA

WILSON Connor Stephan RAAF

WILSON Emily Sarah RAAF

WONG Kevin Cheon Hsiung RAAF

WOOD Ryan Matthew ARA

WOODWARD Daniel RAAF

WORSLEY Nicola Michelle ARA

WRIGHT Phillip John RAAF

XANTHOPOULO Michael ARA

ZHANG Thomas RAAF

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ADFA’S JOURNEY TOWARDS WHITE RIBBON WORKPLACE ACCREDITATION By OCDT Selwyn Hagan

MIDN Maggie Twyford, OFFCDT Amy Princehorn, OCDT Selwyn Hagan, Executive Officer ADFA CMDR Douglas Griffiths, OCDT Ryan Turner, ADFA Commandant AIRCDRE Alan Clements and ADFA Senior Instructor LCDR Lorrae Blunden

What is White Ribbon?The White Ribbon Foundation is Australia’s only male led campaign to end male domestic violence against women and whose vision is to see all women live in safety from all forms of male inflicted violence. The prevention of violence against women is currently the world’s second biggest movement of its type, battling the issue through a variety of programs in workplaces, schools and across the broader community.

As an institution that has very high morals and values, Commandant ADFA determined that the Academy has an obligation to help put a stop to this issue and to lead by example in not only the local community but also across the Australian Defence Force. It was decided that as a result of this point, ADFA would aim to support this organisation through attaining White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation.

ADFA’s ProcessADFA commenced the process in 2014, a process that spanned over 18 months. The accreditation process for ADFA came in three parts and would be a long and fulfilling one joining other organizations such as the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Football League, National Rugby League and the Australian Federal Police.

The first part of the accreditation process was a survey of ADFA that had the aim of gaining an insight into the Academy’s perception of violence. This was coupled with the formal announcement of the intention to become accredited and two events: the Academy forming a White Ribbon on the ADFA parade ground and swearing the White Ribbon oath, and a breakfast attended by the Academy’s and executive leaders of the Australian Defence Force.

The second phase was to fulfill the criteria required by the White Ribbon Foundation in order to achieve workplace accreditation. A few key points of the accreditation criteria were cultural change in the Academy, ensuring that the crux of White Ribbon’s message was embedded into ADFA’s training programs for staff and trainee officers, and overall to promote a strength in the participants of the cause to stand against all forms of violence and make a commitment towards change regarding women’s safety.

The third phase was when the Academy was formally accredited as a White Ribbon workplace, after all the information was submitted and assessed by the White Ribbon organisation.

ADFA staff and trainee officers at the Tara Costigan Foundation walk

A Trainee Officer supporting White Ribbon

White Ribbon CEO Libby Davies presents Commandant ADFA AIRCDRE Alan Clements with the White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation Certificate

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ADFA in 20152015 was a breakthrough year at ADFA in not only our campaign but in demonstrating a great deal of support at local events, which exemplifies the ADFA values and what White Ribbon stands for. An example of this was when over 250 staff and students at the Academy turned out to show support for the Tara Costigan Foundation’s first walk to show support against tackling domestic violence. On top of the walk, the Academy also raised over $9000 internally to give to the charity set up for three children that were left behind. As well as this cause the trainee officer body was invited to swear the White Ribbon Oath again this year to re-affirm their commitment to the cause.

There were also numerous functions held as well throughout the year in support of the accreditation

process. The first was a morning tea which was dedicated to White Ribbon with keynote speaker Tanya who discussed her organisation, the Wesley Mission and her personal experiences of domestic violence and how we together and stop this problem plaguing society. In addition to this ADFA launched the White Ribbon Advocates campaign signing up over 300 people to become advocates for the prevention of violence against women in our community.

In June the White Ribbon Committee hosted the ADFA/ANU Mixer where university students had the opportunity to come together and discuss the issues of violence against women with peer groups across the Canberra community. The objective for the night was networking, spreading the message of White Ribbon and aligning our vision across the universities. Guest speakers

included Station Sergeant Harry Haines of the AFP and Professor Richard Baker, the Pro-Vice Chancellor of ANU. The two speakers talked about the issue of male instigated domestic violence in both university campuses and the ACT in general and both speeches engaged the crowd on many levels.

In July the Academy held White Ribbon Night which was a relatively similar function to the White Ribbon breakfast where everyone including staff, trainee officers, Australian Federation Guard members, external civilians, ambassadors and alike came together once again to discuss the issue and share thoughts, ideas and opinions.

Where To from Now?ADFA was announced as a White Ribbon Workplace on White Ribbon Day, 25 Nov 15 by the CEO of White Ribbon Australia, Ms Libby Davies. The event saw the Chief of the Defence Force, Vice Chief of the Defence Force and Service Chiefs in attendance, in support of ADFA. The event was also attended by ADFA staff, Year Two trainee officers and Australia’s Federation Guard.

Although ADFA has completed a large body of work to help support this cause, there is still much work to do. The battle to end domestic violence against women is still an ongoing issue that we must continue to help end, not only in out local community but also in the wider region and the ADF.

ADFA encourages its graduates and staff posting out to continue to spread the message into their new respective units, so that the lessons learned at ADFA can be shared across the

Australian Defence Force.

Staff and trainee officers of ADFA stand in solidarity to form a White Ribbon

Left to right: Commander of the Australian Defence College MAJGEN Simone Wilkie AM, Commandant ADFA, AIRCDRE Alan Clements, White Ribbon CEO Libby Davies Vice Chief of the Defence Force, VADM Raymond Griggs AO, CSC, RAN at the presentation of the White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation event

The ceremony was honoured with a Royal Australian Air Force C17 Globemaster flypast

Australian of the Year Rosie Batty being interviewed by the media

Members of Australia’s Federation Guard Precision Drill Team forming the ribbon shape

Members of Australia’s Federation Guard Precision Drill Team at the ceremony

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“USING WHITE RIBBON, WE ARE FOCUSED ON CONTINUING TO MAKE CULTURAL CHANGE AT ADFA, THROUGH ENHANCING OUR EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS TO IMPLEMENTING NEW PROCEDURES IN SQUADRONS. WE ARE COMMITTED TO DEVELOPING THE FUTURE OFFICERS OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE, IMBIBING IN THEM OUR FOUR ATTRIBUTES – PRINCIPLED LEADER, MILITARY PROFESSIONAL, STUDENT OF LIFE AND A CITIZEN OF VIRTUE.”

— OCDT RYAN TURNER, WHITE RIBBON UNDERGRADUATE COORDINATOR

COURAGERESPECTINTEGRITYSERVICEPROFESSIONALISMAustralian Defence Force AcademyWebsite: www.defence.gov.au/adfa Facebook: facebook.com/AustralianDefenceForceAcademy

UNSW CanberraTelephone: (02) 6268 6000 Email: sas@adfa.edu.au Website: www.unsw.adfa.edu.au

Defence Force Recruiting Telephone: 13 19 01 Website: www.defencejobs.gov.au