IN A little more than 12 months after joining the Australian Army, Private (PTE) Robert Slorach is already making a difference as an infantryman with the Overwatch Battle Group (West)-Two in the southern Iraqi province of Dhi Qar.

Operating from the Ali Air Base at Tallil, the 22-year-old former Ballarat boy is one of more than 500 Diggers supporting the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) in Dhi Qar and the neighbouring Al Muthanna province.

The Iraqi Government has overall responsibility for security in these two provinces, which are the first to achieve this milestone. The Battle Group's mission is to train and mentor the local security forces and to provide assistance to the ISF if requested.

Private Slorach was deployed to Iraq eight months after joining the Army and said he has enjoyed his first deployment as a rear gunner in the Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicle.

“I protect the rear of vehicles and make sure spacing between our vehicles is correct during convoys. I also keep civilian vehicles at a safe distance, or if they are allowed through the convoy, I wave them past,” PTE Slorach said.

“A task may run for one day, sometimes five days. We come back to base then sometimes go straight back out again, but it has its rewarding points. We've just taken some supplies to local schools.”

Upon his return to Australia, PTE Slorach plans to catch up with family and friends in Ballarat before rejoining his posting to the 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in Darwin.

Private Slorach is one of 1400 members of the Australian Defence Force serving in the Middle East as part of Operation Catalyst, the Australian Government's contribution to help build the capability of the Iraq Security Force.

The Australian Battle Group is also assisting with the redevelopment of water and irrigation projects, rural projects to enhance animal production, health clinics and power supply initiatives.

Training in Iraq - Operation Catalyst fact sheet