Image Gallery 2010

Merry Christmas from Al Minhad Air Base

Tarin Kot Air Load team

Navy Diver in Afghanstan
Blowing up unexploded ordnance and preparing equipment to disable IEDs may sound like unusual tasks for a Navy sailor, but for LSCD Michael Suckling, it’s just another day on the job.

MTF - 2 Mentors 3rd Kandak Heavy Weapons Coy
Mentoring Task Force - Two’s (MTF 2) Combat Team Bravo has begun training 30 enthusiastic Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers from the 3rd Kandak Heavy Weapons Coy on the M2 HB Browning .50-cal machine gun.

Helicopter Resupply to Patrol Bas Qudas
Supplying bases isn’t easy with the constant threat of Improvised Explosive Devices , But for the Afghan and Australian soldiers at Patrol Base Qudus in the Baluchi valley, Afghanistan, delivery is assured when supplies are delivered by air.

MTF - 2 work with 4th Kandak Recon Coy
Six Mentoring Task Force Two (MTF 2) soldiers are working with the Afghan National Army’s (ANA) 4th Kandak Kashp Coy (Reconnaissance Company) to improve its vehicle mounted and dismounted reconnaissance skills at Multinational Base Tarin Kot.

Sarbi Heads Home
Sarbi the Australian Special Forces Explosive Detection Dog is returning to Australia after six months in Dubai undergoing health checks.

Afghans and Australians Bond over Cricket
Afghan National Army soldiers play cricket on their newly constructed concrete cricket pitch. Captain Pat Trainor and civilian staff with Gulf Leighton provided the materials and labour to install the new pitch.

Christmas Cheer in Afghanistan
Approximately 1550 Australian Defence Force soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen are preparing to celebrate Christmas serving their country on Operation SLIPPER in Afghanistan.

ANA Language School at Tarin Kot
Captain Henderson is currently posted to Darwin's 2nd Calvary Regiment and is deployed with Combined Team Uruzgan.

HMAS MELBOURNE fights piracy
The upgraded Guided Missile Frigate HMAS MELBOURNE has been conducting maritime security operations in support of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 against illegal smuggling of weapons, drugs and human trafficking in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO).

Medic Saves US Personnel
After three months of deliberation, WO2 Greg Maher carefully unwraps the two coins he was awarded by the US Army and tells Army News about the American lives he helped save.

Aussies Mentor Afghan National Army Commanders
At Camp Hero, an Afghan base near Kandahar, 23 International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) members of the 205th Coalition Advisory Team (CAT), led by Australian Colonel John Simeoni, advise the regional headquarters staff of the Afghan National Army (ANA).

Christmas Cheer is Almost Here
EVERY time a mail bag arrives with a package with their name on it, it feels like Christmas for deployed Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and as Christmas draws closer, the amount of mail bags increases to ADF operational areas.

Sarbi Enjoys a Run in Dubai
Sarbi, the Australian Special Forces Explosive Detection dog (EDD) was on her second tour of duty in Afghanistan when she went missing for 14 months after she was separated from her handler in Afghanistan.

Kandahar Role 3 Hospital has a Healthy Australian Heartbeat
Currently based at Camp Baker, the Australian support base at Kandahar Air Field, Sergeant Bernie Rogash and Corporal Dave Cantwell volunteer their time outside their normal duties to assist the medical teams at the Role 3 Medical Facility.

Heron Reaches Milestone
The Australian Heron Remotely Piloted Vehicle (RPV) detachment arrived in Afghanistan in July 2009 to provide a high resolution intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capability in support of Australian and Coalition troops.

Joint Movement Control Office, Kandahar Afghanistan
Everyday up to three C130s arrive at Kandahar Airfield (KAF) and depending on operational tempo they shift 20 to 400 ADF personnel in and out of theatre each week.

Chief of Joint Operations Visits Tarin Kot
Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Mark Evans, AO, DSC, Chief of Joint Operations visited Australian troops and held high-level meetings with key leaders on recent tour of the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO).

Operation Sur Gurabe (Operation Boston)
Operation Sur Gurabe (Operation Boston) is an Afghan National Army led operation to clear insurgents from West Dorafshan, Uruzgan province, Afghanistan. The operation commenced on 10 Nov and will continue in different phases over the next few months.

Chief of Air Force Visits Troops in Afghanistan
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin, AO visited Australian Defence Force troops on a recent tour of the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO).

Al Minhad Air Base - Remembrance Day
About 200 ADF and coalition forces gathered to commemorate and pay tribute to the sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen, who lost their lives in service to their respective nations, at poignant Remembrance Day service at Al Minhad Air Base’s Australian Memorial.

Op Slipper -Remembrance Day
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin joins other Australian and Coalition members of Combined Team Uruzgan and Mentoring Task Force Two to honour those killed in action at the Remembrance Day ceremony at Multi National Base Camp - Tarin Kot".

MTF-2 Hits the ground running
Commanding Officer (CO) of the Mentoring Task Force - Two (MTF-2), Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL) Darren Huxley is moving around his command area and meeting soldiers as part of his battlefield circulation tour.

MTF-2 Re-supply
Soldiers of the Logistical Support Company (LSC), Mentoring Task Force 2 (MTF-2), conduct road supply convoys to soldiers throughout Uruzgan Province, southern Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 12 November 2010 - 18 images)
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ANA live fire exercise with D30 Howitzer
Members of the Afghan National Army(ANA) 4th Cannon Battery, 4th Combat Support Kandak are honing their skills during a live fire exercise at the Multi-National Base Tarin Kot (MNB-TK)

(Date uploaded: 12 November 2010 - 04 images)
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Commodore Gregory Sammut appointed to command Combined Task Force 150

(Date uploaded: 10 November 2010 - 01 image)
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CJTF Patrolling with MTF-2
Commander of the Australian Joint Task Force 633, Major General (MAJGEN) John Cantwell travelled to Uruzgan Province recently to attend the hand over parade of the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1) to the Mentoring Task Force - Two at the Multi-National Base Tarin Kot (MNB-TK).

(Date uploaded: 10 November 2010 - 10 images)
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Uruzgan Provincial Response Company and Australian Special Forces hit insurgents hard
Soldiers from the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) and the Afghan Provincial Response Company (PRC) recently conducted partnered operations in the Shah Wali Kot Region of northern Kandahar province, Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 05 November 2010 - 24 images)
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Aussie handover completed in Tarin Kot
The rip has now been completed as incoming soldiers from Darwin’s 2nd Mentoring Task Force (MTF-2) rotate with their counterparts from Brisbane’s 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1).

(Date uploaded: 01 November 2010 - 22 images)
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Transition of Authority from MTF-1 to MTF-2
After 8 months of effective service in Uruzgan, Afghanistan, the members of Mentoring Task Force one (MTF-1) were able to go home.

(Date uploaded: 26 October 2010 - 18 images)
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ANA Gunners conduct first indirect fire mission
The Afghan National Army's (ANA) 4th Brigade artillerymen have successfully conducted their first D30 Howitzer indirect fire practice at Multinational Base Tarin Kot.

(Date uploaded: 25 October 2010 - 14 images)
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Rotary Wing Group completes seasonal rotation in Afghanistan
Fitters from Townsville based 5 Aviation Regiment begin the process of stripping down the CH-47 Chinook helicopters ready for the move back to Australia by C-17 Globemaster from Kandahar Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 24 October 2010 - 17 images)
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The Naval Role 3 Medical Facility supports the coalition troops deployed on ISAF operations
The Naval Role 3 Medical Facility at the Kandahar Air Field supports the coalition troops currently deployed on ISAF operations in the Zabul, Uruzgan and Kandahar regions.

(Date uploaded: 21 October 2010 - 25 images)
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Middle East anti-submarine warfare exercise a success
HMAS Melbourne, under the direction of Commander Mick Harris, recently took a short break from operations to participate in a multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise (ASWEX) in the Gulf of Oman.

(Date uploaded: 19 October 2010 - 02 images)
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Australian Helicopter Task Group Says Farewell to Coalition Partners
The Australian Rotary Wing Group is currently preparing to return home after eight months supporting ISAF aviation missions in Afghanistan during which time they have worked alongside Coalition soldiers supporting Task Force Destiny 101st Combat Aviation Brigade.

(Date uploaded: 18 October 2010 - 07 images)
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SOTG remove IED parts from village
A Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) is deployed to Uruzgan and is focused on conducting population-centric operations.

(Date uploaded: 14 October 2010 - 09 images)
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Maintaining the Herculean effort
The C-130 Hercules maintainers deployed to the Middle East have had their work cut out for them since arriving at Al Minhad Air Base (AMAB) in the United Arab Emirates in June.

(Date uploaded: 13 October 2010 - 11 images)
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RSO&I Training
Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (RSO&I) activities for all deployed Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel are conducted at Al Minhad Airbase in the United Arab Emirates.

(Date uploaded: 13 October 2010 - 16 images)
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C-17 Maintenance in Middle East
C-17A Globemaster maintainers conduct repairs on one of the four engines at Al Minhad Air Base (AMAB) in the United Arab Emirates.

(Date uploaded: 13 October 2010 - 04 images)
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RAAF Leads FCU in Middle East
The recent handover of Force Communications Unit (FCU) 3 to FCU 4 in the Middle East signified the first time that the Royal Australian Air Force has assumed command of the tri-service unit.

(Date uploaded: 11 October 2010 - 01 image)
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Opposition Leader Visits Troops in Afghanistan
Opposition Leader, the Hon. Tony Abbott, visited Australian troops in Afghanistan yesterday. Mr Abbott shared lunch with the troops, toured the Trade Training School and received briefs from senior military personnel and regional Afghan leaders on the situation in country.

(Date uploaded: 10 October 2010 - 11 images)
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Afghan Kids get PJs from Aussies
An initiative of the Force Support Unit in Kandahar in collecting unwanted Tazo’s from people leaving theatre in a charity drive appropriately named “Tazo’s for Children” has raised enough money to present a meaningful gift to children who have been injured as a result of the conflict in Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 08 October 2010 - 01 image)
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The First Afghan School of Artillery Opens in Kabul
The Afghan National Army (ANA) together with their Australian Army mentors and instructors achieved a historic milestone on 26 September 2010 following the successful indirect live-firing of D-30 Howitzer artillery guns at the heavy weapons range at the School of Artillery in Kabul, Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 08 October 2010 - 14 images)
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Australian and Afghan Soldiers Mentoring Milestone
The Afghan National Army (ANA) together with their Australian Army mentors and instructors achieved a historic milestone on 26 September 2010 following the successful indirect live firing of D-30 Howitzer artillery guns at the heavy weapons range at the School of Artillery in Kabul, Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 08 October 2010 - 15 images)
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Family Members of Locally Employed Contractors enjoy Lunch
SOTG invited family members of LECs to a lunch at Camp Russell on 13 September.

(Date uploaded: 06 October 2010 - 12 images)
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Soldiers Watch NRL Grand Final in Afghanistan
For soldiers not on duty the televising of the NRL Grand Final between St. George Illawarra and Sydney provided a welcome respite from the dust and heat of their normal daily activities.

(Date uploaded: 05 October 2010 - 02 images)
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Soldiers watching AFL Grand Final Replay at Tarin Kot
The last Saturday in September became the first Saturday in October with the replay of the AFL Grand Final.

(Date uploaded: 05 October 2010 - 04 images)
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Prime Minister Visits Troops in Afghanistan
In her first visit to Afghanistan as Prime Minister, the Hon Julia Gillard MP met with Australian troops as well as military and political officials in Tarin Kot and Kabul yesterday.

(Date uploaded: 03 October 2010 - 20 images)
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Strengthened presence in Mirabad Valley
The 1st Mentoring Task Force has commenced construction on a new patrol base in Mirabad Valley region of Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 01 October 2010 - 13 images)
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Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen Play a Dusty Game of Touch Footy at Al Minhad Airbase
Soldiers, sailors and airmen play a dusty game of touch footy at Al Minhad Airbase in the United Arab Emirates ahead of the highly-anticipated National Rugby League Grand Final weekend in Australia.

(Date uploaded: 30 September 2010 - 08 images)
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CDF and SEC - Visit troops in the Middle East
The Chief of Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, and the Secretary of Defence, Dr Ian Watt, visited Australian troops deployed to the Middle East today.

(Date uploaded: 28 September 2010 - 09 images)
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Soldiers watching AFL Grand Final at Tarin Kot
The last Saturday in September lived up to the hype with those who could gathering at Poppy's relaxation area at Tarin Kot, Afghanistan, to watch the AFL Grand Final.

(Date uploaded: 28 September 2010 - 04 images)
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MINDEF visits our troops in Afghanistan
Whilst conducting his first overseas tour as the Defence Minister, Stephen Smith MP visited Australian troops in Afghanistan to gain a better understanding of conditions on the ground and to thank the troops for their enormous efforts.

(Date uploaded: 25 September 2010 - 06 images)
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MINDEF meets with officials in Kabul - Afghanistan
The Minister for Defence, Stephen Smith MP, was in Afghanistan today on his first overseas visit since assuming the Defence portfolio.

(Date uploaded: 25 September 2010 - 03 images)
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AFL Fever Ramps up in the Middle East
Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen joined in a friendly game of AFL at Al Minhad Air base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

(Date uploaded: 23 September 2010 - 08 images)
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Concrete is poured for the new reinforced accommodation buildings being built at the Multi National Base at Tarin Kot, Afghanistan
New accommodation facilities are rapidly taking shape at the Multi-National Base, Tarin Kot for soldiers of the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1) in Uruzgan Province.

(Date uploaded: 23 September 2010 - 02 images)
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New Cenotaph Dedication In The MEAO
Conducted by Padre Peter Friend, Padre Isaac Kahn and the Commander of Joint Task Force 633, Major General John Cantwell AO officially dedicated a place of remembrance at the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates.

(Date uploaded: 22 September 2010 - 09 images)
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Commander of Australia’s Force in the Middle East Visits Troops in Afghanistan
As Australia’s commitment to coalition activities in the Middle East Area of Operations continues, Commander Joint Task Force 633, Major General (MAJGEN) John Cantwell AO took time to visit Australian personnel deployed on operations in Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 22 September 2010 - 27 images)
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4th brigade ANA Gunners
The Afghan National Army's 4th Brigade achieved another milestone on 26 July 2010 following the successful firing of D30 Howitzer artillery guns at the heavy weapons range inside the Multi-National Base in Tarin Kowt.

(Date uploaded: 20 September 2010 - 20 images)
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Afghan National Security Forces Conduct Election Security Training
Afghan and Australian forces in Uruzgan Province are putting the finishing touches on preparations for this weekend’s historic lower house or “Wolesi Jirga” elections, the first parliamentary elections run by the Afghans.

(Date uploaded: 16 September 2010 - 17 images)
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HMAS Parramatta Returns from MEAO
HMAS PARRAMATTA returned to her homeport of Garden Island, Sydney. Carrying 192 men and women, she has returned from a six month deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations, where she contributed to the international campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden and maritime security.

(Date uploaded: 15 September 2010 - 24 images)
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File Imagery - HMAS Melbourne
HMAS Melbourne in the Hauraki Gulf off the coast of New Zealand

(Date uploaded: 08 September 2010 - 07 images)
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Aussie Soldiers teaching Afghans the art of marksmanship
Soldiers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force have run a 16 day course to teach ANA soldiers the art of marksmanship.

(Date uploaded: 07 September 2010 - 09 images)
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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Visit to the Middle East Area of Operations
Australian Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Mr Ric Smith, met Australian troops at Multi-National Base Tarin Kowt (MNBTK) on 18 July as part of a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) visit to the Middle East Area of Operations.

(Date uploaded: 02 September 2010 - 25 images)
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Afghanistan soldiers run to raise money for Autism QLD
The Bridge to Brisbane fun run at Multi-National Base Tarin Kot drew 115 competitor's entries for either the 5km or 10km events.

(Date uploaded: 01 September 2010 - 07 images)
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Repatriation Ceremony of Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney
Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney returned home today to be met by his family, loved ones and mates from Brisbane based 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in a solemn and dignified ceremony at RAAF Base Amberley.

(Date uploaded: 30 August 2010 - 10 images)
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Memorial Service at AMAB for Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney
A Memorial Service was held at the Australian Support Base, UAE for Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney. He was deployed on operations in the Middle East Area of Operations as a member of the First Mentoring Task Force, LCPL MacKinney was killed in action on Tuesday 24th of August 2010.

(Date uploaded: 30 August 2010 - 06 images)
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Ramp Ceremony in Tarin Kot for Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney
Moving tributes marked the farewell ceremony for Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney at a remembrance service at Multi National Base Tarin Kot on Friday, 27 Aug 10.

(Date uploaded: 28 August 2010 - 22 images)
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Fallen soldiers return home
Private Grant Kirby and Private Tomas Dale returned home today to be met by their families, loved ones and mates from Brisbane based 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) in a solemn and dignified ceremony at RAAF Base Amberley.

(Date uploaded: 27 August 2010 - 08 images)
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Memorial Service in the UAE for PTE Tomas James Dale and PTE Grant Walter Kirby
A Memorial Service was held at the Australian Defence Force's support base in the United Arab Emirates for Private (PTE) Tomas James Dale and Private Grant Walter Kirby.

Ramp Ceremony in Tarin Kot for Private's Dale & Kirby
Mentor Team - Charlie and members of Australia's 1st Mentoring Task Force conducted an emotional and fitting farewell for two of their mates killed in an improvised explosive device strike on 20 AUG 10.

Private Tomas Dale

Private Grant Kirby

Patrol in the Mirabad Valley region locates and destroys an IED
During a routine patrol through a village in the lower Mirabad Valley region, soldiers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force discovered an improvised explosive device (IED).

Checkpoint in the Mirabad Valley
Members of Mentor Team Alpha, within the 1st Mentoring Task Force, have successfully established an un-partnered Afghan National Army (ANA) vehicle checkpoint (VCP) in the lower Mirabad Valley region of Uruzgan Province, southern Afghanistan.

Ramp Ceremony held at Royal Australian Air Force Base Pearce, WA, for Trooper Jason Brown
Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) Trooper Jason Brown, who was Killed In Action in Afghanistan on 14 August, was repatriated in a sombre Ramp Ceremony at RAAF Base Pearce, Western Australia on 18 August.

Major General John Cantwell Visit to HMAS Parramatta
Land, air and sea, the Middle East Area of Operations encompasses a vast area of responsibility for Australian and coalition forces to manage.

Memorial service for Trooper Jason Brown
Australian Service men and women deployed to the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates pause in their duties to pay their respects at a memorial service held for Special Air Service Trooper Jason Brown recently killed in Afghanistan.

Trooper Jason Brown - Farewelled from Afghanistan
Trooper Jason Brown departed Afghanistan yesterday (16 APRIL) after a memorial service and ramp ceremony at the Multi National Base, Tarin Kowt.

Voting begins in the Middle East
You don’t have to be in Australia to vote in the up coming elections. With four teams of Australian Electoral Commission appointed Assistant Returning Officers deploying to all parts of the Middle East Area of Operations, even the most isolated Australian Service Personnel will have their chance to vote.

Patrolling in the Deh Rawood region
Mentoring Team Delta (MT-D), part of the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1), began operations in the Deh Rawood area, west of Tarin Kowt in early July 2010.

First patrol in the Deh Rawood region
Mentoring Team Delta (MT-D), part of the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1), began operations in the Deh Rawood area, west of Tarin Kowt in early July 2010.

1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1), commences operations in the Deh Rawood area
Mentoring Team Delta (MT-D), part of the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1), began operations in the Deh Rawood area, west of Tarin Kowt in early July 2010.

The Australian Special Operations Task Group facilitated the arrival of six up-armoured HummerThe Australian Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) recently facilitated the arrival of six Hummer up-armoured vehicles for the Afghan Provincial Police Reserve Company (PPRC) in Tarin Kowt.

Aussie Gunners deployed with British troops in Afghanistan
Fourteen Australian artillery gunners from 4 Field Regiment are working and living with British artillery unit 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, out of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Budwan, Helmand Province Afghanistan.

Aussie Gunners at Work in Afghanistan
Fourteen Australian artillery gunners from 4 Field Regiment are working and living with British artillery unit 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, out of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Budwan in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Force Communications Unit Christmas in July function at the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates
Force Communications Unit 3 held a Christmas in July function for all their personnel at all locations in the Middle-East Area of Operations.

Air Force Heron Detachment deployed to Afghanistan assisting Australian soldiers on the ground
The Australian Heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicle is a key asset in the conduct of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions in the Afghanistan theatre of operations.

ISAF-led multinational effort in Uruzgan
The ISAF-led multinational Combined Team-Uruzgan took command of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops in Uruzgan Province on Sunday 1 August, after four years of Dutch command.

Maintaining our Chinooks serving in Afghanistan
The Australian Rotary Wing Group is a detachment from Australian Army Aviation and is deployed to the coalition airbase in Kandahar, flying Chinook CH-47s in support of coalition forces in Afghanistan.

Major General Cantwell spends time with Sarbi
After a fourteen month absence in the wilds of Afghanistan, Sarbi the Australian Army Explosive Detection Dog is starting to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle as she waits out her quarantine time in the United Arab Emirates before her return to Australia.

HMAS Parramatta Fault finding drill
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta toxic hazard drill
Just like the ship herself the crew of HMAS Parramatta operate like a well oiled machine as they work through a toxic hazard drill as part of their daily routine during their tour of duty in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO).

HMAS Parramatta Approach, Assist and Visit (AAV)
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta takes on fresh produce
Resembling a country farmers' market for a little while, the Quarter Deck of HMAS Parramatta was transformed in the middle of her tour of duty in the Middle East Area of Operations with the arrival of fresh produce in a dhow off the northern coast of Somalia.

HMAS Parramatta Stokers serve up dinner
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta staying alert
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta resupply at sea
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta maintenance never stops
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

HMAS Parramatta boarding party
HMAS Parramatta is deployed for six months to the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper, The Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the International campaign against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.

Operation Care Fun Run in the UAE
Operation Care Australian Defence Force Deployed personnel in the United Arab Emirates - 10km Fun Run.

Patrol Base Transfer of Authority in Chorah Valley
"Having worked closely with Australian forces during the past four years, the Netherlands’ officially passed command of a patrol base in the Chorah Valley, Uruzgan Province, to the Afghan National Army (ANA) and Combined Team-Uruzgan (CT-U) last week.

His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi visits the Australian facilities at Al Minhad Airbase UAE
His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces visited the Australian National Headquarters at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

Private Bewes commences final journey home
Around 1500 ISAF and Afghan National Army personnel lined the road to the Multinational Base Tarin Kot Airfield on 12 July 2010 to farewell Australian soldier Private Nathan Bewes who was killed in an Improvised Explosive Device blast in Chorah on 9 July.

Service for Private Timothy James Aplin
Private Timothy James Aplin was laid to rest today (Mon 5 Jul 10) after a service in Brisbane.

Battlefield Circulation Tour
MTF-1 Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Jennings is moving around his command and meeting the soldiers a part of his battlefield circulation tour of the Australian Mentoring Task Force area of operation.

Mentoring Being Conducted on Combined Patrols
All across the First Mentoring Task Force (MTF1) area of operations, partnered mentoring is being conducted on mounted and dismounted combined patrols.

Funeral service for Private Benjamin Chuck
Hundreds of friends, family and colleagues have farewelled Private Benjamin Chuck in a moving funeral service held in his hometown of Yungaburra.

(Date uploaded: 01 July 2010 - 16 images)
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Herbie finally home to rest in peace
Around 100 engineers and soldiers from the 1st Mentoring Task Force attended the commemorative service for Herbie, the explosive detection dog killed in an IED blast that claimed the lives of two Australian soldiers in the Mirabad Valley Region on 7 June 2010.

Snowy & Smithy Tribute Raises Funds for Families of Fallen
A deep sense of patriotism has spurred an Australian Government civilian working alongside Australian and ISAF soldiers at the Multi-National Base in Tarin Kot to capture the sentiment of Australian soldiers towards their fallen comrades by writing and producing tributes to the Australian soldiers that have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

ADF Medical Personnel Contribute to Operation Voodoo
As part of Operation Voodoo, the Australian Special Operations Task Group contributes a number doctors, nurses and medics to a U.S. Aero-Medical Evacuation (AME) team based in Tarin Kot, southern Afghanistan.

The Australian Memorial at Multinational Base Tarin Kot in Afghanistan
The First Mentoring Task Force (MTF1) have gathered to dedicate memorial plaques for Sappers Jacob "Snowy" Moerland and Darren Smith.

MTF-1 Commander meets his Soldiers
MTF-1 Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Jennings is moving around his command and meeting the soldiers as part of his battlefield circulation tour of the Australian Mentoring Task Force area of operation.

Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain Farewell
The Commanding Officer of the 1st Mentoring Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain visited MTF1 soldiers throughout Uruzgan recently as part of his farewell Battlefield Circulation.

Australian Special Operations Task Group soldiers mentor Afghan Provincial Police
The Australian Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) Afghan Task Force (ATF) is responsible for training and mentoring members of the Afghan Provincial Police Response Company (PPRC) in Tarin Kot.

Shura to discuss recent events
Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) partnered with Australian Special Forces from the Special Operations Task Group conducted a deliberate operation to clear a Taliban insurgent stronghold in the Shah Wali Kot region of northern Kandahar province.

Memorial Service in UAE
Australian Service men and women deployed to the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates pause in their duties to pay their respects at a Memorial service held for Private Tim Aplin, Private Ben Chuck and Private Scott Palmer recently killed in Afghanistan.

Change of command at the First Mentoring Task Force
The First Mentoring Task Force has welcomed its new commanding officer during a Commanding Officer (CO) and Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) transfer of authority at Multinational Base Tarin Kot, Afghanistan.

Parramatta Promotes Pakistan Engagement
HMAS Parramatta (CMDR Heath Robertson) recently conducted an operational port visit to Karachi in Pakistan.

Memorial Service to Farewell Three SOTG Commandos
Mourners gather to farewell Pte Benjamin Adam Chuck, Pte Timothy James Aplin and Pte Scott Travis Palmer at a Ramp Ceremony held in Tarin Kot, Afghanistan, to repatriate their remains to Australia 24 June 2010.

ADF Air Component Task Group Change Of Command
Change of command. Personnel gathered at the C-130 flightline on the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates to see outgoing Commander of Task Group 633.2

Parramatta Supports Karachi Deaf Reach School
During HMAS Parramatta’s recent visit to Karachi in Pakistan, the crew had the opportunity to continue the good work of previous Royal Australian Navy ship visits by hosting the children from the local “Deaf Reach School”.

Troops entertained at Tarin Kot
Australian troops based in Afghanistan were treated to great music and plenty of laughs recently thanks to the efforts of Australian entertainers and the Forces Advisory Committee for Entertainment.

Shah Wali Kot Offensive
Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) partnered with Australian Special Forces from the Special Operations Task Group conducted a deliberate operation to clear a Taliban insurgent stronghold in the Shah Wali Kot region of northern Kandahar province.

MINDEF vists HMAS Parramatta in Karachi - India
Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, accompanied by the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston AC, AFC and the Secretary of Defence, Dr Ian Watt, recently completed a visit to HMAS Parramatta (CMDR Heath Robertson, RAN) at the Karachi Naval base in Pakistan.

Sapper Jacob Moerland and Sapper Darren Smith, Return Home
Sapper Jacob Moerland and Sapper Darren Smith, from the Brisbane-based 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment return home.

Memorial Service held at HQJTF633 for Sappers Moerland and Smith
Australian Service men and women deployed to the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates pause in their duties to pay their respects at a Memorial service held for Sapper Darren Smith and Sapper Jacob Moerland recently killed in Afghanistan.

Fallen Soldiers arrive in the UAE
In a sombre and respectful ceremony held on the hot tarmac at the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates, fellow Australian Service Men and Women paid their respects to fallen soldiers Sapper Darren Smith and Sapper Jacob Moerland.

Fallen Mates Farewelled from Tarin Kot
More than 1500 ISAF and Afghan National Army troops based at the Multinational Base in Tarin Kot bid farewell on the 9th of June to Sapper Darren Smith and Sapper Jacob Moerland who were killed in action on the 7th of June.

Operational Mentoring Liaison Team - Hand Over
An official ceremony helped mark May 25 as an important milestone for the 4th Afghan National Army Brigade and the 1st Mentoring Task Force as key mentoring responsibilities transferred from the Dutch to the Australians.

Aussie C-17 delivers the goods in Afghanistan
Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft are used by Australian forces in the Middle East Area of Operations for heavy lift capability including the movement of combat vehicles in and out of theatres of operation as well as large freight items.

Red Shield Appeal at Tarin Kot
On the 28th of May deployed personnel from the 1st Mentoring Task Force and crew from the Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster passed a helmet around to raise money for the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal at Multinational Base Tarin Kot

Red Shield Appeal at SOTG
Members of the Special Operations Task Group donate money to the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal at their base in Tarin Kot, Southern Afghanistan.

HMAS PARRAMATTA'S boarding party Intercepts Pirates
During a routine anti-piracy patrol of the Gulf of Aden, Parramatta located a suspect vessel, a small skiff, loitering with intent in the vicinity of the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor, a route heavily trafficked by merchant shipping vulnerable to pirate attack.

Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal in the MEAO
Defence Personnel deployed on operations overseas including the Middle East Area of Operations had an opportunity to take part in the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal occuring over the last weekend in May (29 and 30 May).

Operation Tor Ghar IV
Operation Tor Ghar IV, a major resupply mission between Tarin Kot and Kandahar that involved more than 200 Australian and Afghan soldiers, was recently completed.

Troops in Afghanistan raise funds for Legacy
Approximately 200 members of the Australian Defence Force, Australian Federal Police, and other Australian Government organisations gathered at Camp Baker, Kandahar, to commemorate ANZAC Day and to raise money for Legacy.

Eleven Young Afghan Men Graduated from the Trade Training School Basic Tiling Course
The Trade Training School (TTS), established in 2006 by the First Reconstruction Task Force (RTF1), has graduated another round of young Afghan men from the three week tiling course.

Chief of Army visits the Special Operations Task Group
The Chief of Army Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Ken Gillespie visited the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) during his recent visit to Tarin Kot in Afghanistan.

Chief of Army visits Troops in Afghanistan
Chief of Army Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Ken Gillespie visited the Middle East Area of Operations with the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer, Stephen Ward.

Victorian Premier visits Middle East
In a visit to Headquarters Joint Task Force 633 (HQJTF633) in the Unites Arab Emirates, Victorian Premier John Brumby met with Australian Service men and women at the Australian Support Base located in the UAE.

MTF1 Partner for success
All across the MTF1 area of operations partnered mentoring is being conducted on mounted and dismounted combined patrols with ever increasing security presence being experienced by local communities from the Southern Baluchi Valley to the Northern Chorah reaches as well as east through the Mirabad.

Weapons Cache
AK-47 rifle, ammunition and weapon magazine.

Warrant Officer of the Navy Visits the MEAO
In a visit to the Middle East Area of Operations Warrant Officer of the Navy, Warrant Officer Mark Tandy met with deployed sailors at the Australian Support Base in the United Arab Emirates.

New Boys' School Opens in Tarin Kot
Commanding Officer of the 1st Mentoring Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain attended the official opening of the Tarin Kot Boys' School on Tuesday 11 May 2010.

Shura in the Baluchi Valley
Within ten days of the close of Operation Jenub Fayda in the Mirabad Valley Region, Australian representatives from the 1st Mentoring Task Force (MTF1), AusAid and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade joined with Afghan government officials, Afghan Army and Police representatives as well as Dutch representatives and community leaders for a Shura to discuss security and development issues in the area.

Mothers Day in the MEAO
Even in the Middle East, the mum’s of the Australian Defence Force were spoilt on their special day.

Chief of Army Visits AMAB
The Australian Chief of Army, Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Ken Gillespie, Visited the main Australian Defence Force staging base for Middle Eastern operations located at Al-Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

Pirate Capture Assistance
An Australian Air Force AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft has assisted in the rescue of 23 crew members of a civilian oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden.

Gizab’s Taliban Commander Captured
Australian Special Forces soldiers and their Afghan partner force, the Provincial Police Reserve (PPR), captured the commander of the Taliban forces at Gizab on 30 April.

Aussie training of Afghans boosts Uruzgan security
Another 12 members of Uruzgan’s Provincial Police Reserve (PPR) have graduated from an Australian Special Response training course in Tarin Kot.

Afghan and Australian Troops help improve Afghan lives in Southern Baluchi Valley Region
Set against the picturesque rugged mountains and lush green valley of the Southern Baluchi, soldiers of the First Mentoring Task Force and their Afghan National Army counterparts swept the laneways, qualas and fields of villages in Southern Baluchi Valley in surge operations that delivered increased security presence in the area.

Minister for Defence visits troops in Kandahar
The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon John Faulkner, commemorated Anzac Day at a dawn service with Australian troops in Tarin Kot, Southern Afghanistan.

1st Mentoring Task Force and Afghan National Army find weapon cache
A large cache was discovered by a partnered 1st Mentoring Task Force and Afghan National Army dismounted patrol in the Mirabad Valley region on Anzac Day.

Commander of Joint Task Force 633 visits troops in Chorah and Baluchi valleys
MAJGEN John Cantwell, AO, Commander of Joint Task Force 633 took time to visit with Australian Service personnel based in the Chorah and Baluchi valleys in Uruzgan province.

Gunfire to Governance at Gizab
The Taliban has been ousted from a northern Uruzgan town and local government has been restored thanks to a community uprising supported by Australian Special Forces soldiers and their Afghan partner force, the Provincial Police Reserve (PPR).

Artillery mentors from the First Mentoring Task Force - Train an Artillery Battery of Afghan Gunners
As Infantry and Engineer soldiers of the Afghan National Army patrol across the Uruzgan Province of Afghanistan, Artillery mentors from the First Mentoring Task Force are training an Artillery Battery of Afghan gunners equipped with the D-30 122mm Howziter at Multinational Base - Tarin Kot.

ANZAC Day activities at Camp Holland
Following the Dawn Service at Camp Holland the men and women of MTF1 joined in games of Two-up and Crown & Anchor with Coalition partners.

Special Operations Task Group - Dawn Service Afghanistan
The Special Operations Task Group is comprised of soldiers from the Perth based Special Air Services Regiment and Commandos from Sydney's 2nd Commando Regiment.

Minister for Defence Visits the troops in Afghanistan for Anzac Day
The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon John Faulkner arrives in Tarin Kot.

Dawn Service - Tarin Kot Afghanistan
The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon John Faulkner, today commemorated Anzac Day at a dawn service with Australian troops in Tarin Kot, Southern Afghanistan.

Sabi spends ANZAC Day in Afghanistan
The Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, yesterday paid a surprise visit to Australian Troops deployed to Tarin Kot and Kandahar Airfield in Southern Afghanistan.

HMAS Stuart Maintains Pressure On The High Seas
On 13 February, Australian Ambassador in Kabul, Paul Foley, accompanied Canadian Ambassador, William Crosbie, on a visit to multi-national Base – Tarin Kot.

(Date uploaded: 19 February 2010 - 13 images)
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Australian Ambassador to Afghanistan Visits the Troops
On 13 February, Australian Ambassador in Kabul, Paul Foley, accompanied Canadian Ambassador, William Crosbie, on a visit to multi-national Base – Tarin Kot.

(Date uploaded: 18 February 2010 - 12 images)
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Changing of guard for Australian soldiers – mission continues
Mentoring Task Force - 1 (MTF1) was formally granted authority from the outgoing Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force two (MRTF2) in a handover parade at the Multinational Base in Tarin Kot, southern Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 17 February 2010 - 18 images)
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Commander Joint Task Force visits Aussie gunners in Helmand Province Afghanistan
Commander Joint Task Force 633, Major General John Cantwell, visits the Australian Gunners from the 8/12 Medium Regiment serving on Operation Herrick in the Helmand province southern Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 12 February 2010 - 29 images)
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Heron UAV
Royal Australian Air Force is operating Heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in close collaboration with Canadian Defence forces.

(Date uploaded: 12 February 2010 - 03 images)
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Special Operations Task Group discuss future with Afghan elders
The Australian Special Operations Task Group with their Afghan partner force have facilitated a major gathering (shura) of village elders and religious leaders in Chenartu, north-east of Tarin Kot, as part of their current focus on reaching out to Afghan communities across Uruzgan.

(Date uploaded: 09 February 2010 - 16 images)
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RAAF`s new Heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
The RAAF`s new Heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) now being employed in the skies above Afghanistan, returns to Kandahar Airfield after completing its mission on Australia Day.

(Date uploaded: 09 February 2010 - 02 images)
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Shura in the Mirabad Valley Region
A recent shura held with people in the Mirabad Valley Region, has helped pave the way for further development in the area.

(Date uploaded: 09 February 2010 - 09 images)
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MAJGEN John Cantwell, visits members of the Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force
Commander of Joint Task Force 633, Major General John Cantwell and Brigadier General Abdul Hamid from the Afghan National Army at the Task Force Uruzgan Transfer of Authority Parade.

(Date uploaded: 09 February 2010 - 14 images)
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Troops Pack March to Raise Money for Afghan Kids
Soldiers and officers from all over the world took part in a pack march to raise money for children in Afghanistan.

(Date uploaded: 08 February 2010 - 10 images)
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Hot Water For Hope House Orphanage
AFGHANISTAN is one of the poorest countries on earth with a high proportion of orphans and widows. Health statistics are horrowing, poverty and insecurity are deeply entrenched.

7th Anniversary of the AP3C Orion Operations in the Middle East
Operation SLIPPER is Australia's military contribution to international campaigns against terrorism, countering piracy, and maritime security.

Ramp ceremony to farewell three fallen Afghan National Army comrades
Members of Australia’s Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force and other Coalition soldiers, lined the airstrip at Forward Operating Base Ripley to farewell three fallen Afghan National Army comrades.

Australian and Afghan soldiers patrol in the Mirabad Valley
A recent shura held with people in the Mirabad Valley Region, has helped pave the way for further development in the area.

Eyes in the Sky
Members of SCANEAGLE UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Group 6 conduct UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) operations in support of multiple elements within the Area of Operations.

CJOP's Visit to TK
Chief of Joint Operations Command, Lieutenant General Mark Evans, the newly appointed Commander of Joint Task Force 633, Major General John Cantwell and the Deputy Commander of Joint Task Force 633, Brigadier Wayne Budd, have visited soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

Bridge Build
Between the 20th and 25th of December, Engineers , with assistance from the Combat Service Support Company, conducted critical repairs to a bridge over the Teri Rud in the Nayak area, just south of Patrol Base Wali.

Baluchi Valley Patrol
Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers and their Australian mentors are keeping the pressure on insurgents north of Tarin Kot.

Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force
Engineers from the Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force have helped improve the lives of people around Uruzgan Province.

Australia Day activities at Camp Holland
It may have been a bit cold and wet but that didn’t stop soldiers from enjoying Australia Day in Afghanistan.

Australians and International Security Assistance Forces enjoy an afternoon of sporting fun on Australia day in the MEAO
Australians and International Security Assistance Forces enjoy an afternoon of sporting fun on Australia day in the MEAO.

SOTG Reaches Out to Remote Communities in Uruzgan
Patrolling among the isolated village communities in the mountains of Uruzgan Australia’s Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) is continuing to establish new and important bonds with the people.

Medals awarded as the 2nd Force Communications Unit prepares to come home
Operation SLIPPER is Australia's military contribution to international campaigns against terrorism, countering piracy, and maritime security.

Op Slipper Soldiers relaxing at Combat Outpost Mashal
Soldiers from the Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force face harsh conditions living in the Afghan desert, from the dust to the extreme cold.

Remembering Private Ranaudo
Members of the Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force (MRTF-2) took time out to remember Private Ben Ranaudo at the memorial erected in memory of him and Lance Corporal Matthew Hopkins at Forward Operating Base Mirwais.

Australia Day Cricket
HMAS STUART celebrates Australia Day with a BBQ and cricket on the flight deck whilst on patrol in the Gulf of Oman

Operation Tor Ghar II
A critical resupply mission has been accomplished by the Afghan National Army and their Australian mentors.

Handover at HQJTF633
MAJGEN Kelly and MAJGEN Cantwell change of command parade in MEAO.

Farewell at Camp Holland
Major General Mark Kelly has said goodbye to the soldiers serving at Camp Holland for the last time.

Heron UAV
The Heron Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Rotation1. The final touches have been completed on the UAV, paving the way for the Australian Kandahar based contingent to begin flying operations with the Heron.

Op Slipper
A major operation conducted by Australian and Afghan National Army (ANA) Forces has experienced success, uncovering a significant number of caches to the east of Tarin Kot, Uruzgan Province, Southern Afghanistan.

Road-side bomb kills eight Afghan Army troops
Members of Australia’s Second Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force and other Coalition soldiers, lined the airstrip at Forward Operating Base Ripley to farewell eight fallen Afghan National Army comrades.

Care packages for ‘an Australian soldier’
Australian soldiers serving in Afghanistan have been inundated with care packages from thoughtful people back home.

Weapons caches found
A major operation conducted by Australian and Afghan National Army (ANA) Forces has experienced success, uncovering a significant number of caches to the east of Tarin Kot, Uruzgan Province, Southern Afghanistan.

1RAR Band wrap up a whirlwind three-week tour of the Middle East Area of Operations
From rock concerts to Carols by Candlelight, jazz sessions to trivia nights, the band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR Band) have wrapped up a whirlwind three-week tour of the Middle East Area of Operations.

Planning meeting
Operational Mentor and Liaison Team Delta recently delivered a series of presentations to senior officers from the 4th Afghan National Army Brigade regarding the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan's Annual Training Guidance for Capability Development and Assessment.

Letters from West Wyalong
Despite battling the hardships of the drawn-out drought, the residents of a country town in Central West New South Wales have dug deep to provide an extra bit of Christmas cheer to Australian soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

Boxing Day cricket at Kandahar
Boxing Day cricket match played at Kandahar Airfield (KAF), between military sides representing Australia and England.

Op Slipper Chrisco
Australian soldiers at Camp Holland in Afghanistan are far away from loved ones for Christmas but that doesn't stop them from celebrating the festive season.