Our People in VIC
Shane Ellison - CRANBOURNE SOLDIER PLAYS PART IN TIMOR PEACE
These days Shane, a former student of Cleeland Secondary College, is a Corporal in the Army with the 9th Force Support Battalion, at the Dandenong Depot. But now he's a specialist clerk with the International Stabilisation Force in Timor Leste.
Shane joined the Army Reserve in 2005, and this is his first tour of duty to Timor Leste.
“I am really glad to have achieved the goal of being able to deploy in an operational environment,” Shane said. “My role is to provide administration support for the soldiers in the Joint Task Force Headquarters.
“I have to keep all personnel records updated, maintain leave records and disseminate a lot of general information to the whole headquarters. If I get it wrong a lot of people are unhappy!
“It’s an interesting job that is made a little more challenging by the different conditions here.
“At times the job can involves working with the people of Timor Leste, which is great, especially when the people smile and want to talk,” Shane said.
Being able to deploy on operations and work in Timor Leste was an opportunity that Shane was very pleased to accept.
“The chance to deploy has to be the highlight of any military career. I’m no exception to this. I’m proud to be over here doing my bit. The money is also good. You get to save a fair bit for your family and to help pay off the all important mortgage.
“My most memorable moments so far have been travelling around the city of Dili and sampling the local customs.
“I am looking forward to seeing my wife, Mandy, and sons, Kai and Charlie, when I get home. It will be good to relax,” Shane said.
Shane is one of about 850 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.
As part of the International Stabilisation Force the Australians are assisting the Government of Timor Leste and the United Nations Police to provide a secure environment for all East Timorese.