Cpl Mick Craig, A Coy 4RAR(Cdo), begins his rappell down Waranora Heights near Sydney on the battalion's roping course. Photo by Bill Cunneen

A GROUP of gutsy soldiers from 4RAR(Cdo) are well on their way to performing one of the battalion's specialised roles after recently completing a challenging roping course in Sydney.

The demanding course of instruction on a cliff face at Waranora Heights saw 19 students attempt to qualify, with successful soldiers progressing to the next stage of training.

WO2 Glen Myors, 4RAR, said that once the men had completed the seven-day roping course, they had to complete a more advanced climbing course on the way to qualify for the green beret.

"It's a prerequisite for this course that soldiers successfully complete the Special Forces barrier test and commando induction course," he said.

"Every person wishing to be a commando must do this course - what we want here is the same commitment they had on the two previous courses.

"We are also making sure the soldiers have no fear of heights."

He said an ability to work on the technical aspects of the course, including knot tying, rescue work and being able to operate on the side of a cliff, were essential skills for commandos.

"Regardless of season, weather or terrain our soldiers must be able to apply the skills taught here on operations - and at night too.

"All training is conducted in daylight initially - we have a roping tower at the battalion where we familiarise the students with the concepts taught on the course."

He said students learnt how to abseil down a rope and climb a caving ladder, as well as safety requirements.

"Basically, a cliff party establishes an anchor system, a soldier abseils down the rope and the party climbs the cliff face and the process continues."

By Pte Alisha Carr