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LEGENDS AND IDOLS ENTERTAIN AUSSIE TROOPS

After performing a series of music and comedy gigs for Aussie Troops, Australian music legends and comedians have returned from one of the most successful Forces Entertainment Tours to East Timor.  

The tour group included Australia’s guitar and singing legend Ian Moss and his band; Australian Idol judge and Vega 91.5fm breakfast host Ian ‘Dicko’ Dickson; 2008 Australian Idol contestant Mark Spano; and comedians Jeff Green and Lawrence Mooney.  

“My reason to participate was partly because of the location, East Timor sounded so exciting.  I also loved the idea of playing for the Troops,” said Ian Moss.

Tour de Force 16 was the 16th Forces Entertainment Tour to visit East Timor and was designed to entertain and boost the morale of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF), comprising of both Australian and New Zealand Defence Force personnel. 

“I’ve been a long time admirer of the Australian Defence Force and therefore was thrilled to be part of the team to entertain and support those men and women serving in Timor,” said Ian ‘Dicko’ Dickson.  

In between shows, the entertainers got to experience the military life including travelling in military vehicles and flying in an Army Blackhawk Helicopter.  

“Everyday was a new experience.  I did many things that I never thought I’d do,” said Mark Spano.  “I feel extremely honoured and privileged to be involved in something so special.”

The enthusiasm and performances of the entertainers, and the opportunity to mingle with ADF members have been a major factor in maintaining the morale of men and women who are far from home.

“My experience performing to the Troops in Timor was completely different to the atmosphere I am used to playing at a regular pub gig.  It was so much more relaxed, which tends to relax me and therefore I play better”, said Ian Moss.  “I would definitely come back to Timor if given the opportunity.”

In a tradition that pre-dates the Vietnam War, the entertainers donated their time free of charge to bring cheer and laughter to the Troops.

“I originally decided to participate in the Tour to get away from the wife, said Comedian Jeff Green.  “But the experience was infinitely better, richer, and more humbling than I had expected.”

“I never expected to have the profound experience I had and this level of joy. It was very grouse!” said Melbourne-based Comedian Lawrence Mooney.   

Media note: Still imagery is available at http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download

Media contact: Julie Akmacic (Defence Media Liaison):  0439 629 446