Defence

Cover story

Restoring calm and stability

Speedy response to assist Timor-Leste

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) mission to assist in restoring calm and stability in Timor-Leste is progressing positively and ahead of schedule, thanks to the efforts of the approximately 2500 ADF personnel, led by Brigadier Michael Slater, deployed on Operation Astute. Corporal Andrew Hetherington reports from Dili.

The Hon. Dr Brendan Nelson, MP, Minister for Defence, talks to troops in Dili.
Photo by LAC Rodney Welch

Many of those personnel who have deployed to Timor-Leste were gathering for a major training exercise prior to the deployment. In early May, the Townsville-based 3rd Brigade, along with Air Force and Navy elements, were preparing for a six-week Combined Arms Training Activity (CATA), at the High Range Training Area in Townsville.

According to the Commander of forces on Operation Astute, Brigadier Michael Slater, the preparation provided the participating ADF elements with a good basis for their deployment to Timor-Leste. 'Navy, Army and Air Force elements were all preparing for the CATA. This further enhanced their readiness for deployment and the degree of interoperability between all elements. Everyone was very focused,' said the Brigadier.

Private Neil Geddes from the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) Battalion Group shares lollies with local children at a small village near Gleno.
Photo by LAC Rodney Welch

When the decision to deploy forces was made, the ADF was able to respond quickly. In fact, the first elements arrived in Timor-Leste the day after the official request was received from the Government of Timor-Leste. The speed with which the ADF deployed has drawn national and international praise. Brigadier Slater said this couldn't have been achieved without the professionalism, dedication and hard work of all those involved.

Since arriving in Dili, the force has made significant steps forward to curb the violence. Brigadier Slater said from the moment the force arrived in Dili things on the ground had progressed quickly. 'ADF personnel made an immediate difference as soon as they arrived. The locals were very welcoming and eager for us to help them,' he said.

Gunner Justin Matangi from Golf Company, 3RAR Battalion Group, talks to local children in Dili.
Photo by LAC Rodney Welch

It's not just the ADF and other military elements that are making a real difference to the people of Timor-Leste. There is a significant police presence involved in the operation. Brigadier Slater noted that cooperation between the police and the military was an important step in returning peace and security to the nation. 'It is very pleasing to see the outcomes of the joint police–military patrols. These patrols are improving Dili's security every day,' Brigadier Slater said. 'As more police arrive, we expect they will take more responsibility from the military forces that have done a magnificent job thus far.'

The operation in Timor-Leste is a complex one that has required the ADF to undertake a wide range of tasks. Soldiers from 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment are providing protection for the firefighters of Dili while they are out fighting fires. A Civil and Military Cooperation (CIMIC) team has been formed and is currently providing an interface with the United Nations, all of the non-government organisations (NGOs) and government departments. The CIMIC team enhances the force's interaction with the local community. Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-130s have transported a number of Australian and foreign nationals, and have undertaken aero-medical evacuation for locals injured in Timor-Leste. Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ships and RAAF aircraft have been transporting personnel and equipment to and from Timor-Leste.

Locals watch as Australian soldiers and Armoured Personnel Carriers from the 3RAR Battalion Group arrive in a small village near Geno.
Photo supplied by Public Affairs

While he has been pleased with the performance of the ADF in Timor-Leste, Brigadier Slater said he appreciates the support the force has received from the Australian public. 'It makes a difference to the ADF personnel in Timor-Leste knowing that they have the support of the Australian public. In particular, the support of families and friends has been overwhelming. Families don't always get the recognition they deserve, but Defence families are a vital part of the success of any mission,' he noted.

The operation in Timor-Leste is truly an international effort. The ADF is working with forces from New Zealand, Malaysia and Portugal to create a stable and secure environment for the people of Timor-Leste. Brigadier Slater said he was impressed by the professionalism of the forces from other countries. 'They have come to help the people of Timor-Leste and, like us, they have been warmly welcomed by the locals. The cooperation between the forces has been excellent. It is important that the international community works together to support Timor-Leste's long-term stability.

An Australian Army Armoured Personnel Carrier patrols around the Gleno area. Photo supplied by Public Affairs

PTE Nathan Wood from the 3RAR Battalion Group talks to locals during a security patrol at a village near Gleno. Photo supplied by Public Affairs

The ship's rigid-hull inflatable boat departs HMAS Tobruk for a run into Dili Wharf during Operation Astute. Photo supplied by Public Affairs

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