By Maj John Liston
TRAINING for the Reserve Response Force (RRF) is now in full swing following the completion of the initial course by soldiers from 8 Bde.

The CATC-sponsored mobile training team conducted the six-day course, followed by a three-day command phase, at Timor Barracks in the western Sydney-suburb of Dundas.

Course Senior Instructor Capt Scott Raymond said the training package was the first step in RRF training and focused on defensive tactics, searches (personnel, vehicle, building and area) and vehicle check points.

“Those who have successfully completed this course will go back to their units and expand on the skills they have learnt and maintain their proficiency through further collective training,” he said.

The RRF within 8 Bde is to reach operational status by December 1.

The 156-strong organisation based on an infantry rifle company will be able to support domestic security and anti-terrorist operations for tasks such as low-risk search, static protection, traffic control and support to cordon operations.

The force will have organic first line logistic support including transport, medical and catering.

Capt Raymond’s training team is drawn from instructors at the School of Infantry, Defence Police Training Centre and the School of Military Engineering.

It is one of two teams who travel throughout the country to conduct the training course.

“Our team is a great example of the ability of the Army’s NCO instructors to adapt to the changing training requirements.

“They have shown they are experts in their field.”

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