TD at Dowsing point
 |
| TD at 33 MP Pl Headquarters at Dowsing Pt - Hobart |
33 MP Pl
33rd Military Police Platoon
‘Defending the Southern Flank'
2006 was a busy year for the Hobart based element of the Company. Beginning with the Platoon's contribution to OP Acolyte for the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, in which nearly half of the Platoon was able to render service for the cause.
Centred around a nucleus of dedicated members, most hailing from the Tasmanian Police Force, the unit is afforded close ties to the local constabulary and neighbouring units. Parading in steady numbers throughout the year and even maintaining commendable AIRN standards without the luxury of those facilities available on the mainland.
A stir among the locals was created by the arrival of the new BMW Patrol bike, for which after some conversion training, which included a burnt out clutch plate and some unscheduled stalling, are now a regular feature of the Tasmanian landscape.
Activities for the platoon this year, in line with the Company direction, and the availability of resources on the island saw the platoon undertake Ex Alamein Test, which not only proved to be a good exercise in BCC and field MP duties, but also managed to collect information on civilian trespassers at the Stoney Head training area in the state's north.
Navigation and Driver training also featured, with the platoon given navigation tasks to every corner of the state. Along the way platoon members identified sites of military significance, such as the Port Arthur Penitentiary and the dog barrier at Eaglehawk Neck.
Sharing a building with the Australian Army Cadets - Tasmanian Battalion Headquarters allowed the forging of closer links in the form of training and assistance to camps conducted throughout the year. The opportunity taken to allow the Corporals within the unit to hone their instructor skills and show the potential next generation of soldiers the value and ability of the Military Police.
Whilst recruiting in the region has slowed in recent years, 33 MP Pl has managed to recruit one new member, CPL TAZ, who returned from one of the navigation training activities undertaken by the platoon. Whilst having not completed the Service PoliceInvestigation Module; special dispensation has been afforded the new recruit to allow him to wear the Beret and Brassard.
33 MP Pl wishes all members of the Corps a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2007.
