Corporal Roger Gleeson from 386ECSS gets a helping hand to clean up and repaint the entrance sign to the international airport at Comoro Airfield as part of Clean-Up Comoro. Photo by SGT Greg Lloyd

An Australia Day parade commemorating the Centenary of Federation, medal presentation, surf carnival and Clean-Up Comoro event were among the highlights of 386 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron (ECSS)'s Australia Day celebrations in East Timor.

In recognition of their efforts in Timor, all personnel from 386ECSS were presented with an Australian Active Service Medal ribbon and certificate by Commanding Officer of CASG, Wing Commander Mark Gower.

While, in the tradition of Ian Kiernan's Clean Up Australia Day, 386ECSS personnel conducted a clean up in the local Comoro community, including East Timor's only International Airport and local beaches.

After a productive morning the catering staff were tasked to gratify some big appetites - and what better way than a great Australian pie eating competition. The pie, an icon and delicacy missed by many, especially SGT Lloyd from the S3 cell, who managed to consume six.

The Australia Day celebrations continued at the rocky Comoro beach where a traditional surf carnival was held without the golden sands. The carnival was contested in sections and included events such as esky lid relays, thong throwing, flag races, tug-of-war, bin frisbee and an iron gut relay. No one winner could be determined, however the afternoon of sport and recreation was enjoyed by all.

To complete the hectic yet fulfilling day, CASG and 86 Wing members retired to the Mess Tent to participate in a traditional Dining-In Night. For many of the younger CASG members this would be their first introduction to another great tradition and it certainly capped off a great 2001 Australia Day.

By FLTLT Shane Hellmann