Strike force
FLGOFF Peter Tonkes and photographer CPL Kirk Peacock highlight No. 1 Combat Logistic Squadron’s annual induction challenge

Corporal David Clews applies camouflage paint to prepare for ground defence duties.

Corporal Natalie Payne and Leading Aircraftwoman Kristina Filippi prepare to load up their weapons as they head for home after the deployment.

Airfield Engineer Flight Lieutenant Paul McCullagh uses an inclination instrument to conduct a tactical airfield survey at the field training range.

Corporal Robert Richardson and Leading Aircraftman Justin Preece deliver stores around the training area in a mule.

Leading Aircraftman Justen Bailey makes a splash as he drives a Mac semi-trailer onto the range.

Ground Support Engineering Fitter Aircraftman Justin Lorrimer cleans a fuel filter on a unimog.

Leading Aircraftman Chris Dickson pulls a cover off a deployable water tank.

Flight Lieutenant Danny Cusack helps move some wood for construction off the back of truck.

Members of No. 1 Combat Logistics Squadron (1CLS) battled torrential rain and a fictitious enemy while participating in Exercise Woomera Strike recently.

The annual induction training deployment was held for new members recently posted into the unit.

The first phase of the exercise involved a week of training sessions at RAAF Base Townsville in weapon handling, fitness testing, fire fighting, first aid, fraud awareness, security and OH&S.

More than 90 personnel from 1CLS and support units around the base then deployed in a convoy of 30 vehicles to the Townsville Field Training Area to set up camp for the ground defence phase.

On arrival, the area became a fictitious island nation where rebels had damaged an airfield that was required for use by the local authorities.

The exercise scenario started with a low level threat, escalating to increased enemy activity over the week.

Squadron members, consisting of airfield engineers, plant operators, carpenters, electricians, plumbers and various support personnel, established camp amenities, including a unit headquarters, maintenance, supply and medical flight, before beginning battle damage assessment and repairs of the training area.

Craters placed on the runway to simulate the effect of 500 pound bombs were repaired, a buried command post was trialled, and a nearby Star airfield was cleared and equipped with approach lighting to prepare for the impending arrival of a Caribou.

Weapon pits were dug, wire barricades were erected and ground combat training was conducted as the rebels taunted their enemy beyond the lines during the exercise scenario.

In the meantime, Cyclone Fritz began brewing up north, with heavy rainfall turning the camp into a muddy wash-out.

After two days of downfall, the exercise was cut short when reports of the rising water level threatened the only exit road out of the training area.

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