An ETDF soldier checks weapons in the new force's armoury.

A JOINT international effort continues in Metinaro near Dili to ready the first group of East Timorese citizens to man that nation's newly formed defence force, before a gradual withdrawal process begins for UNTAET soldiers.

Along with personnel from Portugal, Korea and New Zealand, a small group of Australian instructors is helping to convert a group consisting predominantly of former guerrilla fighters into an effective national defence force.

About 20 Aussies make up the team, with ranks ranging from private to major and comprising both regular and reserve members.

OC Maj Greg Hansen said the ETDF Training School's role was to prepare East Timorese infantry battalions that were tailor made for the unique and specific requirements of their mission.

Maj Hansen said a number of ETDF training staff had travelled to Australia to undertake a study tour, visiting ARTC Kapooka, RMC Duntroon and CATC Singleton to broaden their understanding of the intangibles that make a traditional army work.

"When they come back, they're going to do some train-the-trainer training with us where they'll learn methods of instruction, range qualifications and small-arms coaching," he said.

"Beyond that we are going to supervise them in training their own soldiers."

Maj Hansen said the Australian-developed training school was well equipped with a 300m range, a grenade range, a gym, armouries and living-in accommodation.

The new defence force is armed with M16 rifles, including 40mm M203 attachments.

The project, spanning five years, is a part of Australia's extensive regional Defence Co-operation Program.

Maj Hansen said there was a great deal of competition among candidates to be selected for training and induction into the ETDF.

"The ETDF is well into the process of recruiting its second battalion, with a 260-strong intake in January and another 260 in June.

"For those 520 vacancies, the ETDF received about 7000 applications."

By Cpl Wade Laube