Our People in TAS
Sapper Kurt Ludwig - MEANDER SOLDIER PLAYS PART IN TIMOR PEACE
These days Kurt, a former student of Del High, is a Sapper in the Army, normally based in Townsville with the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment. However, he is currently undertaking a variety of reconstruction projects in Timor Leste as part of the ANZAC Battle Group.
Kurt, who joined the Army in 2004 is enjoying his tour of duty to Timor Leste, and helping with the rebuilding of the country.
"It's a great opportunity to be here and to help the people of Timor Leste. The locals always seem pretty happy to see us and the kids just love it.
"Spending time with the Timorese has been very fulfilling and its all part of the hearts and minds campaign," Kurt said.
As an engineer, Kurt has provided his skills in the building of a variety of infrastructure for the Timorese.
"We have built a kitchen for a local orphanage and lots of other things, from bridges to shelving to cupboards to schools and playgrounds.
"It keeps us nice and busy, and provides us with the opportunity to travel around the country.
Having joined the Army to serve his country, Kurt has lapped up his Timorese experience.
"I spent some time in PNG last year and now I am here in Timor Leste. There are so many opportunities available and I am making the most of the opportunities," Kurt said.
With still two months of work to do before heading home to Australia , Kurt is already looking forward to seeing his wife Teigan and his one year old daughter Marissa.
"I do miss my girls, but I know I'll be home soon and that's going to be great," he said.
Kurt is one of about 1100 Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in Timor Leste as part of Operation Astute, the Australian Government response to the Timorese Government request for assistance in restoring peace to their country.
The Australians, as part of the International Stabilisation Force, are assisting the Government of Timor-Leste and the United Nations Police to provide a secure environment in which the country can conduct its first independent presidential and parliamentary elections since independence.