In the tropical heart of Far North Queensland, Air Force personnel delivered critical health services and strengthened community ties through Exercise Kummundoo.

Supporting the dental health team at the Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Services Clinic in Mareeba, Flight Lieutenant Michael Pichler was one of many Air Force specialists delivering local health outcomes.

“It’s more than just fixing teeth,” Flight Lieutenant Pichler said.

“We’re supporting dental, environmental health, and physical and mental wellbeing programs across Mareeba, Atherton and Kuranda – reaching people where [we’re] needed most.”

Flight Lieutenant Pichler and his team worked alongside Aboriginal health practitioners to ensure care was culturally safe and community-led.

“By collaborating with Mulungu, we support trusted, localised healthcare solutions and build mutual understanding,” he said.

Chief dental officer at Mulungu, Dr Luke Wainwright, said the success of Kummundoo was due to its strong partnerships and shared commitment to improving oral health outcomes.

'It’s health as healing – for them and for us.'

Mulungu staff and Air Force personnel worked together to augment existing dental services. This ensured Air Force personnel delivered care that was not only clinically effective and timely, but also culturally meaningful.

Dental assistant Sergeant Deborah Williamson agreed that the program went beyond treatment.

“Exercise Kummundoo isn’t just about filling cavities – it’s about filling gaps in trust,” she said.

“Seeing a child smile after their first check-up reminds us why we continue these missions. It’s health as healing – for them and for us.”

General Manager at Mulungu, Tania Yow-Yeh, described the Air Force’s involvement as a powerful example of respectful and collaborative engagement.

“We are thrilled to have the Air Force supporting the delivery of essential health care within our communities. Their involvement demonstrates a meaningful partnership with our Aboriginal primary health care service, and the broader community,” she said.

Flight Lieutenant Pichler said the exercise embodied the spirit of reconciliation.

“Defence recognises the unique skillsets Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long contributed to Australia’s defence,” he said.

“Exercise Kummundoo is our way of giving back – strengthening health, trust and respect.”

Now in its 11th year, Exercise Kummundoo 2025 ran from October 1 to November 6.