Acts of charity by PMG

Peace Monitoring Group members enjoy a brew as part of Australia ’s Biggest Morning Tea in aid of Cancer Council Australia.

Lest We Forget Run winners Sergeant Jamie Elliott and Captain Vincent Braniff.

RAISE your cuppa to the members of the Peace Monitoring Group (PMG) in Bougainville who have been putting their best foot forward for charity.

They have raised funds for the RSL and Cancer Council Australia by participating in the Lest We Forget Run and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.

The run of charity events began with the Lest We Forget Run on April 26.

Thirty-three Australians, New Zealanders, Ni Vans and Fijians rose with the sun to participate.

Starting and finishing at PMG headquarters, the 8km circuit was run along the road, surrounded by lush tropical jungle. A number of locals sat along the roadside to cheer on the runners.

Air Force personnel dominated the women’s placings. Sergeant Jamie Elliott, of No. 323 Combat Support Squadron at RAAF Base Townsville, finished first in 37min 53sec. She was inspired to organise the event because of the sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand airmen and soldiers in Bougainville during World War II.

Flight Lieutenant Natalie Sands, of No. 321 Combat Support Squadron at RAAF Base Darwin, placed third in her first fun run. Normally a swimmer but lacking access to a pool, she decided to take up running to keep fit.
Apart from organising the run, SGT Elliott also helped organise the PMG’s involvement in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea on May 22.

SGT Elliott said that after the successful fund-raising effort of the run, members on Op Bel Isi found it easier to drink tea and coffee than to run 8km.

PMG Commander Brigadier Ian Lillie said the event was a great opportunity to contribute to a worthwhile cause and added a touch of normality in a unique workplace.

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