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High adventure


Volume 49, No. 03, March 08, 2007
 
KOSCI CONQUERORS: The AJAAC team from HMAS Albatross have plenty to smile about after climbing Mt Kosciuszko.
Photo courtesy of SQNLDR Ian Murray
 
MEMBERS of the Australian Joint Acoustic Analysis Centre (AJAAC) normally plumb the depths for knowledge, but instead scaled new heights recently in an adventure training expedition to Mt Kosciuszko.

Their range of bush walks included a climb to the top of Australia’s highest mountain.

AJAAC, a joint unit at the Naval Air Station at HMAS Albatross in Nowra on the NSW South Coast, comprises Navy and Air Force personnel and Defence civilians.

It is responsible for analysing acoustic emissions from submarines and ships, and distributing intelligence to its ADF and allied customers, as well as conducting acoustic analysis training courses for ADF and allied operators.

Their analysis intelligence contributes to maritime operations by providing information that aids the detection and classification of ships and submarines.

AJAAC’s CO SQNLDR Ian Murray said adventure training was important to the organisation.

“Given the unique nature of AJAAC and its staff composition, it is imperative that we all understand and respect the experience that we each bring to AJAAC and that we develop and foster a strong ‘one team’ ethic,” he said.

“The walks enabled us to get away from our normal work routines and respective comfort zones to build on existing levels of teamwork, ensuring that we continue to develop as an organisation capable of meeting our customers’ needs.”

Training was based at Navy’s ski lodge at the Thredbo alpine village.

Members worked as teams to share cooking and cleaning duties.

“The training was an outstanding success,” SQNLDR Murray said.

Different walks were conducted, with all team members reaching the top of Kosciuszko, despite their varied levels of fitness.

“This was largely due to the teamwork shown by members,” he said.

“Their spirit was extremely pleasing and they all enjoyed the experience of being away together.

“As a unit, we are now looking forward to building upon the experience in 2007.”