Soldiers bring hope after disaster
THE ADF’s prompt response to Cyclone Larry’s obliteration of the far north Queensland coast and Atherton Tablelands alleviated the human suffering as Defence delivered life-saving aid to those in dire need.

Tower of strength
WHILE athletes were powerlifting for gold in Melbourne, 5 Avn Regt aircrew completed an unusual lift of their own to help the cyclone-affected north.

Efforts send a positive signal
“WHERE’S the local radio station?”
This was one of Capt Rob Kirk’s first questions when he arrived in Innisfail the day after Cyclone Larry.

51FNQ’s quick response
AS CYCLONE Larry smashed its way through the most populated towns in 51FNQR’s area of responsibility, plans were made to deploy patrols to the devastated region.


Come hell or high water
DRENCHED in pouring rain north of blacked-out Cardwell, I listened closely as an RACT corporal gave orders to convoy drivers about to cross a flooded creek in a desperate attempt to get humanitarian supplies to Innisfail.

Off-road safety training rides on
THE ADF Motorcycle Association is set to conduct various training and safety courses over the coming year and is seeking ADF members to participate.

Sim all fired up
PROJECT Land 19 Phase 2B has delivered a state-of-the-art Advanced Air Defence Simulator (AADS) to 16 AD Regt – and unit training is already under way.


War horse’s last charge
IT WAS the end of an era recently as the Townsville-based M113A1’s of B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt, deployed to the High Range Training Area on a live-fire exercise for what will be the last time at squadron strength.


AACAP ready to build a better future
A MEMORANDUM of Und-erstanding (MOU) on the continuation of the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program (AACAP) has been signed between the Army and the Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaCSIA).

Black Hawks home soon
WHILE the bulk of the ADF contingent deployed on Operation Pakistan Assist returned home last month, the mission has only just ended for 70 Australians in the aviation element.


Second arrival
THE second of two Australian Chinooks has touched down in Afghanistan, but perhaps not in the way that might be imagined.

In-country recognition
MORE than 100 members of Secdet 8 will march with pride this Anzac Day after being awarded AASMs for service in Iraq shortly before their return home.