Policy could spell the end for some

By CPL Alisha Carr
The response to the ADF Sports Council’s (ADFSC) release of the Inappropriate Sports Listing has been mixed, however, a large number of Defence members are angry and frustrated.

One association that will be adversely affected by the Inappropriate Sports Listing is the Australian Army Alpine Skiing Association and President, MAJ Christopher Harrison, expressed his concern.

“I believe to call alpine skiing dangerous is a gross exaggeration,” he said.

“I also predict that this year will be the last year we are able to hold the ADF National Alpine Skiing Titles because if COs are unable to release people to compete in the event, we obviously cannot run the competition.

“One of the great advantages of service life is being encouraged to keep fit, be a team player and face fears as part of your normal job.”

He said the Inappropriate Sports Listing signalled the death of alpine skiing within Defence.

One member who will be directly affected by the list is CAPT Robert Wilton from RTC-SQ. As a paraglider pilot, his sport has been listed as ‘inappropriate’ and will no longer be recognised by the ADF.

“This surprises me, as I have found over the six years that I have been involved in this sport that there are relatively few people who know what a paraglider is and even fewer who realise the capabilities of this particular aircraft,” he said.

.