Our People in WA
Nathan Hillman - RAPID DEPLOYMENT
Private Hillman, 18, is part of Operation Astute, the Australian Government’s effort to help restore peace in our northern neighbour.
“I wasn’t expecting it, but it’s great to be here after so soon after completing my initial training,” Nathan said.
Normally based in Townsville with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Nathan is working with the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to assist the Timor-Leste and UN police to maintain security and stability in the fledgling democracy.
“We achieve that through a lot of patrolling, just getting out and about and being a visible presence around Dili and the outlying country areas,” Nathan said.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know the people and the culture more plus playing a game of soccer with them.”
“It’s good to have a few mates over here as well. I came over with two guys that I’ve been mates with since recruit training and that makes things like team-building easier.”
Nathan’s looking forward to catching up with mum Ruth and brothers Keelan, Brennan and Raymond in Perth and his father Brad in Singapore after his deployment.
His plans also include buying a new car with the money he’s saved and a big road trip with Keelan.
Nathan 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.