17 March 2006
Chief of the Defence Force visits Victoria Barracks, Melbourne

The Australian Defence Force (ADF), as part of the Australian Government's overall contribution, is providing support to the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. This support includes security and ceremonial personnel, as well as other general support staff.

This support is being provided under the title of Operation Acolyte. Acolyte is Latin for ‘helper’ or ‘assistant’ and was chosen to symbolise the ADF’s supporting role in the staging of the Commonwealth Games.

Operation Acolyte involves 2,600 Australian Defence Force personnel from across the three Services, performing a range of specialist roles such as security, ceremonial and general support. The troops are being accommodated at, and working from, existing Defence establishments in and around Melbourne including: Simpson Barracks, Watsonia; Maygar Barracks, Broadmeadows; RAAF Williams, Laverton and Point Cook; and Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.

20060315adf8185016_0005 Chief of the Defence Force (CDF), Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston (left) meets with the Commander of Joint Task Force 636 Brigadier Andrew Smith (centre) at Victoria Barracks, Melbourne. At right is the Task Force's Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer First Class William Degenaro. The CDF was visiting the Task Force headquarters to discuss the progress of the Australian Defence Force’s support to the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. (Image has been digitally altered). (Date taken: 13 March 2006) Low-Res | Hi-Res