Special Forces Barrier Test
Testing pushes personal limits
June 21, 2001
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| Candidates push themselves to the limit in a test that assess mental as well as physical toughness during a barrier test for army special forces entry. Photo by Bill Cunneen |
The new-look barrier tests assessed candidates physical and mental toughness, their mental and mechanical aptitude, navigation skills, and physical endurance and strength.
One successful candidate, who will now advance to SASR selection, said the barrier test was an excellent opportunity to see people you wanted to work with and offered a little bit of what it felt like to belong to an special forces unit.
"The course was run in a very relaxed mode -- there was no shouting and no surprises," he said.
"I particularly liked the challenge put forward during the initial course brief when Maj Turkington [OC Selection Wing SFTC] said "It is neither our responsibility nor our wish to test you. You are here to test yourselves. If you fail it's down to your own performance."
The candidate also said that preparation for the test was very important.
As if to prove his point he went on to not only complete the 3.2km Battle Run in cams, boots, rifle and webbing in well under the required 16 minutes 30 seconds and the 4-hour Endurance March (marching order with 28 kg and rifle), but finish first in both activities in near record time.
Another candidate said that simply attempting the test was highly rewarding.
"If anyone displays even the slightest interest in joining the special forces they should attempt this barrier test - essentially, you will always miss 100 per cent of the shots you don't take," he said.
SFTC will run two more SFBTs this year. You can find course details and dates through http//defweb.cbr.defence.gov.au/armysftc/ or by calling (02) 6570 3150.
By Capt Matthew Richarsdon