Our People in QLD
Private Jorge Asido
Private Asido, 22, has deployed with the Army on Operation Astute, the Australian Government’s effort to help restore peace in the world’s newest democracy.
Normally based in Townsville with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Jorge is now part of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) as it assists the Timor-Leste and UN police to maintain security and stability in the country.
It’s Jorge’s second operational deployment with the army to Timor after joining up three years ago because he liked the idea of outdoors work and wanted to travel.
Maintaining security is just one part of Jorge’s job though: “Our tasks here include going out into the smaller villages up in the hills, finding out what facilities they have and what they need, then passing on that information so that the problems can be fixed.”
A key difference from Jorge’s last deployment are the monsoonal deluges: “Last time it was the dry season. Now the rain’s like clockwork, every afternoon.”
Jorge is looking forward to catching up with his mum Melgie in Tingalpa and his brother Jason in Cannon Hill when his tour finishes.
Jorge is one of about 1000 Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in Timor-Leste.
The operation is part of the Australian Government's response to a request from the Government of Timor-Leste to assist in bringing stability, security and confidence to the Timorese to allow them to resolve their differences democratically and peacefully.