Operation CATALYST: Image Gallery
13 February 2008
Soldiers meet with tribal leaders
The Commanding Officer of Overwatch Battle Group (West) 4, Lieutenant Colonel Chris Websdane, and key staff met with Sheik Shershab and leaders of the Al Badur tribe, the largest in Dhi Qar province, on 4 February 2008.
During the meeting and traditional lunch, LTCOL Websdane discussed local security and community development issues.
The 516 soldiers of Overwatch Battle Group (West) 4 are mostly drawn from units of the Brisbane-based 7th Brigade. The Battle Group is comprised of the headquarters and cavalry squadrons of the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry), operating Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAVs); and an Infantry company from the 6th Battalion of The Royal Australian Regiment (6 RAR) operating Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicles (IMVs).
OBG(W) 4 is based at Tallil Air Base from where it undertakes a security overwatch role for Al Muthanna and Dhi Qar Provinces as part of a larger Coalition Force.
The security role supports the Iraqi Security Forces’ (ISF) and Provincial Government’s efforts to build a secure and stable Iraq. In this role OBG(W) 4 undertakes security patrols, develops ISF capabilities and supports reconstruction and rehabilitation projects. OBG(W) 4 operates as part of the Multi National Force - Iraq (MNF - I).
| 20080204adf8243116_004 Traditional Iraqi tea, spiced 'chai', is served to visiting Australian guests of Sheik Shershab (seated background). (Date taken: 04 February 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
 |
| 20080204adf8243116_021 Sheik Shershab (left) waits for Lieutenant Sam Hattar (right) to finish translating for Lieutenant Colonel Websdane during discussions regarding local security and community development issues. (Date taken: 04 February 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
 |
| 20080204adf8243116_036 Lieutenant Colonel Chris Websdane (left), speaks with Sheik Shershab about local security and community development issues. (Date taken: 04 February 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
 |
| 20080204adf8243116_064 Meeting and lunch successfully concluded, Sheik Shershab (background right) and Lieutenant Colonel Chris Websdane (foreground centre), make their way to waiting Australian vehicles for departure and move to the next appointment. (Date taken: 04 February 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
 |
| 20080204adf8278790_005 Warrant Officer Class Two Scott Allen (right) and soldiers of Overwatch Battle Group (West) - 4, enjoy a traditional lunch of rice, bread and lamb following a meeting with Sheik Shershab, leader of the Al Badur tribe. (Date taken: 04 February 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
 |
