Tobruk locked and loaded
Navy work horse takes task group overseas

 

STEADY: HMAS Tobruk, loads equipment for the Australian Army’s 1st Brigade who are deploying as the Al Muthanna Task Group. The loading took place in Darwin.

Photo: CAPT Al Green

STATELY: The last remaining elements of the Army’s Al Muthanna Task Group are loaded onto Tobruk.

Photo: SGT John Carroll

HMAS Tobruk is playing a vital role in providing the sealift to the Middle East for the Australian Army deploying as the Al Muthanna Task Group (AMTG).

The loading of the task group’s heavy equipment took place at Fort Hill Wharf in Darwin recently. The deployment supports Operation Catalyst, the Australian Defence Force’s contribution to the rehabilitation and stabilisation of Iraq.

The Australian contingent will be providing support to the Japanese Reconstruction and Support Group as well as the Australian Army Training Team - Iraq. The task group was formally farewelled by members of the Army’s 1 Bde in a short but impressive parade at Robertson Barracks.

Family members and the national media were on hand to witness the display of strength as the soldiers paraded in the uniforms and weapons they will carry on active service, while behind them were the lines of vehicles that will provide the task group’s mobile might.

Commander 1 Bde BRIG John Cantwell told the assembled crowd that work had begun to prepare the task force within hours of the Prime Minister’s announcement to send the group.

“Then, with the training under way we were well positioned to receive the flow of new equipment, new protection for our armoured vehicles, new protection for our soldiers, new radios and a whole range of enhancements to our already-excellent equipment set,” BRIG Cantwell said.

“In the last week we’ve been able to culminate the very busy training schedule with a solid week of replication of the mission in Iraq.”

He said he was delighted to see the tough and determined way the task group took on the challenges of the mission rehearsal exercise that the soldiers had just completed, and added that they were ready for their task. “You have the right equipment, excellent training and first-class leadership,” he said.

“You have the innate skills, toughness, compassion and competence that have marked Australian soldiers wherever they have served.

We wish you well. We know you will do us proud.” In response, CO AMTG LTCOL Roger Noble thanked those who had helped the task group prepare for its mission.

In particular he thanked the families of the deploying soldiers for their patience and understanding as their loved ones worked long and frustrating hours to prepare for the mission.

LTCOL Noble also had words of comfort for those who were worried about what lay ahead for the AMTG.

“Take a look out there,” he said as he pointed to the assembled soldiers and their armoured vehicles.

“There is a powerful and capable Australian task group. So when you get worried and you’re anxious, just remember what you can see.”

.