Media Room: Media Releases

Defence
MEDIA RELEASE

As part of the lead up to the Commonwealth Games, the ADF will be conducting various training exercises in and around the Melbourne area.

Of particular note, the ADF east coast counter terrorist capability - which includes elements of special forces; 4^th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment; Blackhawk helicopters; and members of the Incident Response Regiment – has been, and will continue, to conduct essential training involving the use of Blackhawk helicopters.

On Friday 24^th Feb, helicopter operations will be conducted around the Police Operations Centre in the Melbourne CBD, by day and night.

The ADF will also participate in land based exercises with Victoria Police in the metropolitan area over the next few weeks. Again increased noise and military vehicle traffic may be experienced for short periods of time in the vicinity of the metropolitan areas.

"We understand ADF training operations can cause concern for some with increased noise and the presence of military traffic. Just as the police presence in Melbourne increases in the lead up to the Games, the presence of the ADF will assist us in making sure the Games are a safe, successful and enjoyable Games in March."

Brigadier Andrew Smith, Commander of ADF Joint Task Force for the Games, says, "The ADF apologises to residents in the surrounding vicinity for any inconvenience caused by these necessary training activities. I wish to stress that this training is an important and essential part of our support to Victoria Police in making the games a safe and successful event."

"The support and understanding of the community of Melbourne is appreciated," Brigadier Smith said further.

Further information: www.defence.gov.au/opacolyte/

Media contact:

Defence Public Affairs 02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664.

Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999
Fax: 02 6265 6946
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