Nominations are now being sought for the 2001 Prince of Wales Awards from eligible ADF Reservists, enabling an opportunity to travel overseas for both military and civilian training through the Prince of Wales Award Scheme.

The scheme aims to increase Reservists' occupational knowledge, experience and skills through work experience with foreign military and civilian organisations complementary with their Australian employment.

Travel is to Canada, the United Kingdom or the United States of America, with a two-week military attachment, followed by a two-week civilian attachment.

The award is open to Navy, Army and Air Force Reservists of Petty Officer/Sergeant to Lieutenant Commander/Major/Squadron Leader ranks, inclusive.

Each nomination will include both a military and a civilian project proposal, with statements of support from employers that will be assessed at State and then national level. Each proposal needs to be of positive benefit to both the military unit and the civilian employer and must be realistic and achievable for the individual member.

The cost of air travel from Australia to the country of destination and return is funded by the Citizens in Support of Reserve Forces (CISORF) Trust, in conjunction with sponsorship by Qantas. Also, the CISORF Trust provides a financial grant for the visit, following donations and sponsorships from major organisations, such as DEFCOM and the RSL.

The Reservist is paid military salary and allowances during the military attachment.

To apply for an award you must submit a nomination form, which is available either from your Reserve unit or at Annex B to DI(G) PERS 09-1, to your State Defence Reserves Support Committee (DRSC) by June 30, 2001.

Further information about the Prince of Wales Awards is available from the DRSC on 1800 803 485 and at www.defence.gov.au/reserves, the ADF Reserves web site.