new nzdF saving schemes our trainers in taji, iraq our engineers in

Transcription

armynews
courage
|
CO m m i t m e n t
w w w . a r m y. m i l . n z
New NZDF saving schemes
Good news for soldiers
Our trainers in Taji, Iraq
Building skills and confidence
Our engineers in PNG
Linking mountain villages
|
comradeship
|
integrity
I s s u e4 6 7 | o c t o b e r 2 0 1 5
NZarmy
news
octob er 2 0 1 5
ISSUE 467
Contents
NEWS
Ex Southern Katipo
New NZDF saving scheme
02
03
PEOPLE
Our trainers in Taji
Helping PNG mountain
communities
04
SMA.Net - ‘Do your own job first’
By Sergeant Major of the Army WO1 Titch Mortiboy
When you listen to captains of high performing teams speak about their
focus and preparation they will often talk about needing to do their own job
first. They want to be ‘up there’ in terms of competence in their own playing
position first and foremost. Whatever their job is as part of the team plan
for a particular game, the leader needs to fufil that task in defence and on
attack. The captain’s training and preparation as a player has to be right
before they can start to think about their leadership role. Likewise to stay
being selected week after week they have to maintain their performance in
their particular position on the field or court.
If your platoon or troop ran a selection process to compete in a military
event would you be selected on your ability to do your job? Would you make
the top 30? As an NCO can you do all those things that we require in terms
of soldiering and trade, plus competently lead and look after your people?
As leaders one of the things we need to to keep in focus is that we stay at
the top of our game in terms of what our role is in the wider ‘team’. With our
subordinates we need to ‘trust down’ and let the soldier do his or her job.
As instructors once our people become proficient in the skill we have
taught we need to minimise the chatter and let them get on with it. ‘Let the
soldier do their own job’ was the catch cry of one of my many former CSMs.
Personal Profile: Jo Barrett
06
07
Rimutaka Hill crossing
re-enactment
Exercise Southern Katipo
08
What you need to know
exercises
Pacific Angel
Vulcan Shield
Kotimana Warrior
10
13
18
New career management
system a winner for soldiers
SPORT
Triathlon
Ironman
Defence Blacks
23
24
26
What is Southern Katipo 2015 (SK15)?
The Army News is published for the
Regular and Territorial Force and
civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.
Editor: Judith Martin
Phone: 04-496-0227 or
DTelN: 349-7227
Fax: 04-496-0290
email: armynews@nzdf.mil.nz
Website: www.army.mil.nz
Printing: Bluestar, Petone.
Design: Vanessa Edridge,
DPA, NZDF
Editorial contributions and
letters are welcomed.
They may be sent directly to the Army News
and do not need to be forwarded through
normal command channels. Submit them to
The Editor, Army News, DPA, HQ NZDf,
Private Bag 39997, Wellington, or by email.
Deadline instructions: Army News is
published on the third Tuesday of each
month, except January. Please have all
contributions to the editor by
the first of the month.
Nothing in the Army News should be taken
as overriding any New Zealand Defence
Force regulation. Readers should refer to the
relevant service publication before acting
on any information given in this newspaper.
ISSN 1170-4411
All material is copyright, and permission to
reproduce must be sought from the editor.
SK15 is New Zealand’s largest military exercise, held every two years
in varying parts around the country. In the scenario, a fictitious South
West Pacific island is separated into two nations called Becara and
Alpira. Becara is suffering from political instability and unrest. NZ has
been requested to assemble and lead an Intervention Force comprising
a coalition of Pacific Island Forum Members States. Westport, Nelson
Lakes and the Marlborough Sounds will become the troubled region.
Which countries are involved in the exercise?
Invited countries include: Australia, Canada, Fiji, France, Papua New
Guinea, Tonga, United Kingdom and the United States.
What are the benefits of this training for the NZDF?
The exercise will test the ability of the NZDF to plan and conduct joint
operations involving sea, land and air assets. Exercises such as this
are crucial for the NZDF to ensure that its personnel are well trained and
ready to respond to a crisis at home or overseas at any given moment.
It will also give the NZDF further real time experience working with
personnel from other nations.
Where and when will this year’s exercise be held?
More than 2000 military personnel will be in the Buller, Tasman and
Marlborough regions over the month of November.
How will I know who is involved?
The military role players will likely be wearing civilian clothing and will
be blending in with the communities. They will make themselves known
and should be easily identifiable as they will be displaying Becaran
paraphernalia such as the Becaran flag, small embroidered patches or
pins and perhaps a combination of sky blue and yellow items, which
represent the colours of the Nation of Becara. Once the contingent has
established itself in key locations in each area, the public will see regular
day and night patrols conducted by soldiers either on foot or in vehicles.
Will the public be able to see some of the activities?
Members of the public will have the opportunity to get up close and
personal to some of the activities and information about that will be
made available closer to the time.
* You can keep up to date with the exercise from mid-2015 on the official
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernKatipo
COVER: A New Zealand Army
trainer at work in Taji, Iraq.
Like us on Facebook
/officialNZArmy
I have been privileged to be in
the company of Wayne ‘Buck’
Shelford who is traveling with the
Defence Blacks over in Europe. Our
undefeated All Black captain led
from the front. Example is a very
powerful tool, and I think still plays
a big part in leading Kiwi soldiers.
At all levels our people expect us
to be competent. They look to us
to see ‘what right looks like’ at the
next level. We need to make sure
we do the basics well and that we
carry out those tasks that are ours
to conduct. As we try to manage
all that we have to do as NCOs
sometimes just ‘playing well’ says a
whole lot to our troops and inspires
them to follow.
In the military we need to be
ready to go to a domestic or world
‘event’ all the time. That has to
be our mindset. My training and
preparation needs to at least get me automatically picked into the wider
squad. I have to do extra so that when I am matched up against the others
going for the same position I will have an edge. The stakes for our ‘events’
are much higher than a sports team. The people of New Zealand want us to
win- to do good and come back safe. They demand that we select competent
leaders that will do the right thing, lead from the front during the task and
‘eat last’ when it’s over. We do that by being professional, and a good place
to start is by doing your own job first.
Nga– Mihi – Good soldiering.
Final Army news for 2015
a bumper issue
The final Army News for 2015 will be a joint November/December
issue, published on 2 December. If you would like to submit an
article for this issue please send it to armynews@nzdf.mil.nz by
23 November.
The NZDF’s new career management system provides a clear common
reporting tool into which soldiers can have considerable personal
developmental input, says Army career manager Warrant Officer Class
One Todd Groombridge.
“It recognises the previous annual reporting system was at times
not developmentally focused, and did not use technology enough –
the AFNZ125A being primarily paper based and not easily completed,
routed or stored without significant intervention. It was hard to make
comparisons against service counterparts when considering NZDF
appointments.”
WO1 Groombridge said the benefits of comparing all personnel
against the same competencies, rank specific, were very clear.
“The process encourages more future career and developmentally
focused conversations with command rather than the old tools which
looked at the previous 12 months’ performance. That alone makes
this a more positive career management and development tool. A
common development and reporting tool from day one in the service
allows all personnel the ability to clearly articulate their career
aspirations and for command and career management to be party to
those aspirations.
“Being online allowed career managers to see where each reports sat
in the reporting chain, with the ability to move reports to more relevant
or available reporting personnel. This ensures reports are completed
in time for promotion boards and or extension of service boards.
“The point to career management is to maximise individual potential
for the benefit of the force and the individual.”
Send a message
to your loved ones
overseas, with
Kate Lukins, a former DJ and studio engineer with NZME (Newstalk ZB,
ZM/FM, Classic Hits, Coast FM etc) is once again producing the NZDF
Christmas radio show for deployed forces.
She will be recording a two to three-hour programme complete with
music requests and messages of support from families and friends.
Kiwi Forces Radio will be made available to our people in theatre, in
time for Christmas. For people in New Zealand, it will also be available
for download from the NZDF website. Download details will be advised
in December.
To send a song request and record a message for your loved one,
email: kate.lukins@nzdf.mil.nz with your name, phone number (cell
phone is okay) and say what time during the 14–15 November is best
for her to call you from the studio.
Final day to email your details through is Friday, 13 November.
All calls will be made on Saturday (14 November) and Sunday
(15 November).
NEW NZDF SAVINGS SCHEMES a
In a first for the New Zealand Defence Force, Chief of Defence LTGEN
Tim Keating has introduced two new savings schemes to complement
the existing Defence Force Superannuation Scheme.
The New Zealand Defence Force KiwiSaver Scheme and
the New Zealand Defence Force FlexiSaver Scheme were
officially launched on 01 October. Both schemes are aimed
at helping NZDF members achieve their savings goals.
These savings schemes fit into our Defence Force vision
of Enhancing Combat Capability by better supporting our
people and their families. This is one tangible way NZDF
is demonstrating its commitment to make people feel
valued and supported.
The NZDF KiwiSaver Scheme is open to all NZDF
members (military and civilian) as well as immediate
family members and Veterans, who are aged less than 65
years and are NZ citizens or long-term NZ residents. The
scheme is not-for-profit and people can choose how they
want their funds invested from seven options.
NZDF members who contribute to the NZDF Kiwisaver
Scheme will receive from the Chief of Defence Force oneoff employment retention payments of $1000 (before tax)
after years 1, 4 and 7 of contributions.
The NZDF FlexiSaver Scheme is open to NZDF members,
immediate family and Veterans, regardless of age.
The purpose of FlexiSaver is to help members achieve
their savings goals while retaining some flexibility e.g.
members can access their funds when they choose to
(subject to rules applying). FlexiSaver is also aimed at
more medium-termed savings goals such as saving for
a house deposit, a new car, tertiary education or a new
addition to the family.
The two new schemes (and the current DFSS scheme)
are managed by financial services company Mercer
(N.Z.) Limited, who were selected through a public
tender process.
Members of the NZDF KiwiSaver Scheme and the
Defence Force Superannuation Scheme are eligible to
withdraw funds to put towards the purchase of a first
home. To date over 600 members of the DFSS scheme
have made First Home Withdrawals.
Information about the three schemes is on the Force
4 Families website www.nzdf.mil.nz/financial-hub and
available for NZDF personnel internally on the HR Toolkit.
Briefings are being held at camps and bases from October
– visit the financial hub webpage to see session times.
NZDF personnel are encouraged to bring their family
members or partner/spouse to attend these briefings.
message
from
chief
of army
Setting firm priorities
The Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General Tim Keating
discusses aspects of training the Iraqis with a Kiwi soldier.
Making a difference – the proof is there
Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Tim Keating,
who accompanied Prime Minister John Key, and a group
of journalists to Taji, Iraq recently says he is proud of the
progress New Zealand troops are making there.
“The Iraqi Army are slowly regaining their confidence and
beginning to demonstrate the capability and determination
they need to mount a successful counter-offensive.
“I admire the courage, professionalism, and commitment
of those who serve on our behalf, in Iraq and in our other
missions overseas. In the 50-degree plus heat in Taji, our
troops, with the typical Kiwi sense of humour and can-do
attitude, have been mentoring Iraqi soldiers to become
better fighters. Also, our people who are serving in the
many missions that support our deployment to Iraq do so
with the uttermost professionalism and dedication.
“We are with our people every step of the way and when
they come home later this year, every member of the
contingent can proudly say that they have helped make a
difference in Iraq.”
Dominion Post political reporter Tracey Watkins who was
part of the media team that travelled to Iraq with the Prime
Minister said the trip asked and answered the question
about whether New Zealand troops are making a difference.
“It only took a day watching the Kiwi trainers and their
students in action at Camp Taji in Iraq to know they are offering
real support and it is more than just a drop in the ocean.
“And they are doing it under hellish conditions that beggar
belief – stranded in a desert miles from anywhere and
surrounded by pockets of one of the most brutal enemies in
modern times, the Islamic State.”
Read Helping build Iraqi Army skills and confidence page 4
As the Chief of Army, my role is to command the Army. To do
that, I need to be able to communicate with you all directly.
For me, face-to-face is always best – and my preferred
approach will be to get around our camps and speak to you
all collectively. With this goal in mind, SMA and I will be on
the road a lot to see as many of you as possible over the
coming weeks.
Just as important as it is for me to talk to you, I need you
to talk to me. I welcome your thoughts on many issues, and
regularly read SMA’s blog and social media – following up
on matters raised from time to time. As the SMA and I travel
around our Army, please chat to us and tell us what’s on
your mind. I’m pretty straight up, so let me know what
you’re thinking.
I will also be using this column in the Army News as another
means to reach you all.
As part of my first article as Chief of Army, I want to give
you a heads-up around my top four priorities: Joint Land
Operations, People, Network Enabled Army, and Plan Mere
(the relocation of HQ TRADOC , ACS and TAD to Burnham).
First and foremost my number one priority is simple and it
is the reason we have an Army and that is to conduct “Joint
Land Operations” when we are called upon. This is about
preparing and sustaining land forces for operations, and
reconstituting those forces on their return to New Zealand.
Let me be very clear that when I talk about Land Operations,
I am referring to combat operations and training at the high
end of what we do, because – as we know from our recent ops
– when the proverbial hits the fan we are all soldiers.
In the current operating environment, collaboration is key.
Throughout all major exercises here and abroad, or when
we deploy on operations, we take a joint, inter-agency and
multi-national approach. Most of what we do is invariably
joint with our RNZN and RNZAF forces, is inter-agency (as
the HADR mission in Vanuatu showed) and is multi-national
as part of a coalition force. In order to operate effectively
we each need a sound understanding of the skills sets and
excellence we all bring to the fight – working collaboratively
to achieve the mission.
Importantly, when we do train I need you all to remember
“operations first, safety always”. This is not about
constraining what we do, but acknowledging that ours is a
dangerous business and we need to be vigilant and in this we
all have a responsibility to ensure our own safety, and that of
our mates.
In the next issue of Army News, I will talk about people, my
second priority focusing entirely on you – the people who
make up our Army – with a focus on reducing hollowness
in critical ranks and trades, retaining our good soldiers,
attracting and recruiting new ones and encouraging some
old ones to come back. Meanwhile, I look forward to talking
to as many of you as possible.
Onward,
Major General Pete Kelly
Chief of Army
04armyMISSION
issue 467 | october 2015
NZDF trainers help build Ira
skills and confidence
By Luz Baguioro, Public Affairs Manager – Joint Forces New Zealand
New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) trainer J could not have been more clear.
“When you enter a building, you aim your rifle and must be ready to shoot. You don’t
hang around in the doorway, you check both sides quickly and take a safe position inside
the room. If you do this right, you stay alive. If you don’t, you die,” the 34-year-old
infantryman told a group of Iraqi soldiers.
It’s just after 7am in early October in Iraq’s Camp Taji
and NZDF trainers – guarded by a squad of vigilant Force
Protection soldiers – are busy teaching combat first aid,
urban building clearances, weapons handling and counterImprovised Explosives Device to around 200 Iraqi jundi
(soldiers) from the 1st Battalion, 71st Iraqi Army Brigade.
With the aid of interpreters and the typical Kiwi sense
of humour, the NZDF trainers work until noon, when the
temperature hits the high 40s and becomes untenable for
both trainers and students.
Since late April, New Zealand and Australian forces have
been training the Iraqi Army so they can better defend their
country from the violent extremist group ISIL (Daesh).
Task Group Taji, which is led by Australian Defence Force
Colonel Matt Galton, has trained up to 2100 Iraqi soldiers
to date and expects to train a further 2000 soldiers in
coming weeks.
The training mission in Iraq is vital. The Iraq Army is building
up after the impact of Daesh’s rampage and seizure of certain
parts of Iraq last year.
“The key thing that the Iraqi soldier has been struggling
with before now is confidence. The training we’ve been
providing them instils confidence in both their equipment and
themselves. If they go forward with that level of confidence
against Daesh, they have a far better chance of success,”
New Zealand’s Senior National Officer in Taji said.
There have been a few challenges in training the Iraqi
soldiers and language is one of them. Even with interpreters,
some things do get lost in translation, according to the NZDF
trainers.
“In general, the Iraqi soldiers are a lot like us. We share
common goals. They want to fight for their country. We want
to fight for ours. We also respect the same things as soldiers
– professionalism, teamwork and leadership,” NZDF Trainer
C said.
“We are able to build a good rapport with them and that’s
because of our cultural background. We are very openminded,” he added.
Humour and sport have also helped bridge the initial
cultural divide between trainers and trainees.
“Many of them don’t have a clue where New Zealand
or Australia is so we spend a bit of time right at the start
showing them on the map where we come from. We also tell
them that unlike the Australians, we are better at rugby so
that provides a lot of talking points throughout our training,”
NZDF Trainer J said.
Now into its sixth month of operations, Task Group Taji is
seeing tangible improvements resulting from the training it
has been providing.
“In shooting, for example, we were only getting about 15
rounds on target at the start of training. But towards the end
of most training courses, we are getting 20-25 rounds on
target,” NZDF Trainer M cited.
“Overall, we get a good sense of satisfaction in knowing
that we are giving the guys we are training good skills that
will help keep them alive,” NZDF trainer J said.
Many of the Iraqi trainees are experienced soldiers and
have been to the frontlines in the war against Daesh. “They
are not only eager to learn; they are certainly ready to fight for
their country,” NZDF Trainer C said.
The Iraq Army are grateful for the training being provided by
New Zealand and Australian troops, whom they describe as
“professional”.
“We have more confidence in ourselves because of the
training we received from Australian and New Zealand forces.
Now that we have learned these skills, we are ready to fight
Daesh anytime anywhere in Iraq,” said Warrant Officer Amer
Muhssim, who formed part of a class of 15 soldiers being
trained on urban building clearances.
“I wish the Australian and New Zealand forces will stay to
teach us the skills to fight and defeat Daesh. God willing and
with the strength of the Iraqi Army, we will be able to free
and recover all the land being controlled by Daesh,” Private
Khalid Abd Al Haleem said.
Iraq is a tough operating environment and not only because
it is one of the world’s most dangerous hotspots. During
summer, the temperature could hit 55 degrees or higher.
The compound within Camp Taji where New Zealand troops
live and work is a heavily fortified fortress. Tall and thick
armyMISSION05
aq Army’s
slabs of concrete line the perimeter wall and shield the
accommodation blocks, which have a one-metre concrete roof.
“I haven’t felt unsafe at all since we got here. We’re
completely comfortable working with the Iraqis and we have a
good relationship with them. They really want us to be here,”
NZDF Trainer F said.
But as expected in any war zone, New Zealand troops
carry their weapons almost everywhere they go except the
shower and toilet blocks. Even the New Zealand staff at Camp
Taji’s medical facility have pistols in holsters while tending
to patients.
“There are many challenges but at the end of the day,
it is very rewarding. I believe we are making a significant
contribution to the Iraqi efforts against Daesh,” NZ’s Senior
National Officer said.
06armyMISSION
Engineers help build road for PNG
mountain communities
Personnel from 2 Engineer
Regiment are mentoring the Papua
New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF)
as they build a 350 kilometre road
that will link more than 100 remote
mountain villages in Papua New
Guinea (PNG).
“The road will link isolated villages and communities in the
PNG highlands to the large trade and supply hubs at Mount
Hagen and Madang,” said Lieutenant (LT) Leroy Judge, Senior
National Officer of the 20-strong NZDF contingent.
Mount Hagen is the third largest city while Madang is
the capital of a bustling province on the northern coast of
mainland PNG.
Deployed to PNG in early August 2015 the soldiers have
been training PNGDF engineers on road building techniques,
basic maintenance, and safety procedures.
“The expertise of our Army engineers has been used to
mentor and provide technical assistance to the PNGDF to
complete a project that is of national significance to their
government and of course the community,” LT Judge said.
The Alternative Highlands Highway project is led and
funded by the PNGDF. It involves constructing a 350 kilometre
gravel road, of which around 150 kilometre cuts through
forest and over the Bismarck Mountain Range. At present, the
locals, including schoolchildren, have to walk through dense
forest to get to their mountain village homes.
Once completed, the new highway will be used as an
alternative to the Highlands Highway, which links Mount
Hagen to Lae, PNG’s second largest city. The Highlands
Highway takes 10 hours to travel and is often closed due
to slips.
“Every day, the locals give our personnel fresh fruit and
vegetables in gratitude. They shake our hands and thank us
for supporting this task.
“Every time we go to town to get supplies, the villagers,
particularly the children, run out to greet us. The term ‘Kiwis’
is a common expression around here now and they recognise
our vehicles,” said LT Judge.
New Zealand and PNG have a long and rich history of defence
cooperation, with both the NZDF and PNGDF serving together
in the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands,
and the PNGDF taking part regularly in Exercise Southern
Katipo in New Zealand.
The NZDF’s Mutual Assistance Programme (MAP) provides
training support in partnership with the PNGDF. Under the
MAP, around 40 PNGDF personnel receive a combination of
command, leadership, staff, and specialist training both in
New Zealand and in PNG each year, while PNG brings specialist
expertise and experience as instructors to NZDF courses.
armyPEOPLE07
The Personal Profile
Jo Barrett
Burnham Camp civilian Josephine
Barrett rides motorbikes, was once a
Major, and has a bionic implant after
slipping in the shower. She has also
had a double mastectomy. October
is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Here’s Jo’s story.
What attracted you to the Army?
Funnily enough I’d always had a burning desire to join the
NZ Police Force not the Army. I left high school after the 7th
Form, eagerly fronted up and passed the police entrance
tests only to be told I didn’t have any life skills, I needed to
get some and come back in two years. I joined the Territorial
Force and became a Driver with 31 Tp, 3 Tpt Sqn, BHM Camp.
I eventually joined the Regular Force and was so hooked
on the Army my Regular Force career spanned from Clerk to
Major, and now I’m a civilian at Burnham Camp. I had a great
time collecting an arsenal of incredible life skills along the
way through great work, great comrades, fantastic sporting
opportunities, several operational deployments, and as an
Aide de Camp to the Governor General – and without regret
I never went back to the NZ Police recruiter…
Tell us about your
time as Aide de
Camp to the GG.
The ADC post is a Capt
(E) posting for 12 months.
As Commander-In-Chief
of the NZDF the Governor
General (GG) has two ADCs
posted to Government
House (GH) at all times.
In my time one ADC would
be “In Waiting” for a week
24/7; which meant being
with the GG for all events
and being responsible for
liaising with and ensuring
A young Jo Barrett in uniform
the air (domestic and
international) and land
transport, accommodation, Diplomatic Protection Squad,
security, Internal Affairs and Parliamentary matters were
dealt with, then rotate week about with the other ADC
carrying out duties in GH and accompanying the GG’s spouse.
I was ADC to Dame Silvia Cartwright and her husband Mr
Peter Cartwright for 15 months, the extra three months
came about when Dame Silvia called me into her office one
day toward the end of my posting. She asked me if I would
like to stay and accompany her to Kuwait, Jordan, Greece
and Germany? You can guess my answer and it took a nano
second to tell her! I enjoyed the ADC role 100%, it was a huge
eye opener – yes another life skill I picked up, and to this day
I have a very close relationship with Dame Silvia and Mr C.
You had an accident in the shower and
had some very new medical technology to
help you?
As a youngster, complete with bike.
While I was Aide de Camp I slipped in the bath and injured
my back. This injury eventually took its toll with 11 months
sick leave, numerous procedures and surgeries, getting
around on a walking stick for three years, and having to take
huge amounts of medication over a long period of time.
In 2008 Professor Edward Shipton secured approval to
implant New Zealand’s first Bionic Spinal Cord Stimulator.
This electrical device has been life changing for me,
hugely improving my quality of life. I have a remote control
programmed for walking, sitting, standing and lying so I can
choose the programme and alter the frequency as necessary
which intercepts the pain receptors at the injury point. The
generator itself is implanted into my rear right hip at waist
level below the skin surface, and is circular about 3.5 cm x
3.5 cm. I have a cordless battery which I charge in the mains
like a cell phone and usually weekly I charge up by putting
the battery into a pouch on a special belt. The battery
transfers the electricity directly through the skin into the
generator in about 60 minutes and hey presto I’m topped up!
How did you discover you had breast cancer?
I received a letter from the breast screening people advising
I was on their radar as I’d turned 45 and would be called up
soon for free screening. Two years went by and I had thought
it a bit odd that I’d never been called up, but with a naivety
of thinking breast cancers were lumps and that you’d know
about it I just thought the screening programme must have
a huge list. I had no lumps, was fighting fit – so I wasn’t
bothered. It wasn’t until my first civilian GP appointment
when I was questioned/told off for not having been screened
and was by then nearly 47. I finally got to the appointment
and 19 days later got recalled as “some of the area in the
right breast wasn’t clear in the picture”. They also said to be
available the whole day in case a biopsy was needed. Off
I went, had the scan and an ultrasound where I could see
for myself and tell by facial expressions there were things
inside where there shouldn’t be – apparently the odds were
likely they would be ok though and a biopsy would confirm
this. I had the biopsy and drove home. The next day 19 Sep
12 was a year to the day of my father’s funeral (he’d passed
away from pancreatic and liver cancer) so I was feeling a
bit sad, I was driving home from work and I got a call on my
cell phone to say things weren’t good, I needed lumpectomy
surgery with radiation to follow in the next two weeks but
needed to see the surgeon the next day. Unfortunately the
original surgery wasn’t successful so three weeks later I had
another lumpectomy, again there weren’t clear margins. I had
my first mastectomy and reconstruction in December 2012.
Things went relatively well in 2013, but in 2014 I began having
problems with my left breast and consequently had my
second mastectomy and reconstruction in December 2014.
You seem to have a very positive, bubbly attitude to life – have you always been like that?
When I was five “positive and bubbly” was called being a
chatterbox – so yes four and a half decades on nothing much
has changed. Except I have loads of life skills, silicone Twin
Peaks and silver hair!
What advice would you give to someone, or
their partner, who has just discovered they
have breast cancer?
For me going through the process and now on the other side
of it I have found it’s best to listen, listen, and listen. You can
offer advice and support but everyone’s diagnosis, prognosis
and thought processes are different. It’s really important
not to impart either negativity (yep some do it), nor be over
positive (because you don’t know the full story).
What has been your lowest time?
I had some low times with my back injury, and again have
had low moments during and still have with my breast cancer
journey. I guess it makes you question and confront everything
people don’t normally experience until they’ve been whacked
around and beaten up a bit. I live on my own so at times that
can be really hard going. Fortunately I have some really special
friends and work colleagues who are great support, they know
who they are…
On her father’s beloved Norton motorbike.
What constitutes a great weekend for you?
A kiss from a colleague during a fund raising walk.
Jo was body painted by NZDF artist Matt Gauldie when
she lost her hair following her cancer treatment.
I have quite a few weekend options and enjoy spending them
with like minded people. I like going to our family bach at
Okains Bay, I really love the freedom of the countryside and
fresh air. I also enjoy riding motorbikes and have the choice
of my 2007 Triumph Bonneville, or I can go old school and
kick over my Dad’s 1954 ES2 Norton (500 Single). I’ve recently
been selected as one of 20 NZDF personnel to attend the
Invictus Games in Florida, May 2016 and will be competing
in archery and swimming so my evenings and weekends
are full of action! Since I got diagnosed with Breast Cancer I
notice I think more about learning from your mistakes but not
from your regrets. Life really is short, so you have to do what
makes you happy and have fun doing it – trust me it puts
things in perspective.
08armyPEOPLE
Some soldiers, and others, dressed in period uniform to re-enact the crossing.
Rimutaka hill
crossing re-enacted
Colonel Paul Curry, along with
many other members of the
New Zealand Defence Force
marched over the Rimutaka
Hill last month, retracing the
footsteps of their ancestors
who made the same journey
on their way to war.
More than two hundred people took part in the event to
commemorate the service and sacrifice of thousands of
soldiers who served in the First World War, particularly those
who served on the Western Front.
Between 1915 and 1916, around 60,000 soldiers who trained
at Featherston Military Camp marched over the Rimutaka Hill
before embarking in ships berthed in Wellington Harbour,
which were bound for the First World War. All soldiers who
trained in Featherston went on to serve on the Western Front
in France and Belgium.
Colonel Curry took part in the re-enactment event as a
direct descendant of soldiers who made the same journey
during the First World War.
Four of his paternal great-grandfather’s younger brothers
served on the Western Front during the First World War. Three
were evacuated to the United Kingdom after being wounded
or becoming ill, while one, Private Albert Bert Curry (19th
Reinforcements, 2nd Battalion, Wellington Infantry Regiment),
died of wounds at Passchendaele on 17 October 1917.
On Colonel Curry’s mother’s side, three of his greatgrandfather’s brothers also served on the Western Front.
Private Charles James Lankey (10th Reinforcements, 2nd
Battalion, Canterbury Regiment), died in the United Kingdom
on 22 October 1916, of
wounds received at the
Somme, while two others
survived the war.
Descendants of Colonel
Curry’s wife also fought on
the Western Front.
He said the march was a
great way to commemorate
the service and sacrifice of
his ancestors.
“The Western Front was a
major and important part of
New Zealand’s involvement
in the First World War, and
much of it was fought in
Colonel Paul Curry
terrible conditions,” he said.
“The majority of New
Zealand’s casualties during the First World War happened on
the Western Front, including a number of my relatives who
were either wounded or killed.
“Marching over the Rimutaka Hill and taking part in
something my ancestors did a century ago was an incredibly
meaningful experience, something I did for them and for my
family,” COL Curry said.
The re-enactment march began from Camp Road, north
of Featherston, at 3am on Sunday 27 September 2015, and
finished at Griffin Field, Trentham, around midday.
New Zealand involvement on The Western Front
The artwork constructed on the Rimutaka Hill to mark the re-enactment.
The New Zealand Division arrived in France in April
1916, and remained on the Western Front, in France
and Belgium, until late 1918. Major New Zealand
involvement included taking part in the Allied offensive
on the Somme (1916), an assault on Messines Ridge
(1917), the Battle of Passchendaele (1917), and the
liberation of Le Quesnoy (1918).
The majority of New Zealand’s casualties during the
First World War happened on the Western Front. More
than 12,480 personnel are buried in Commonwealth War
Graves cemeteries in Belgium
and France.
In 2016, the New Zealand Defence Force will conduct
Anzac Day services in France (23-24 April) and Belgium
(25 April). On 15 September 2016, the official New
Zealand service to commemorate the centenary of the
Battle of the Somme will take place at Longueval in
northern France.
armyPEOPLE09
10armyEXERCISE
Kiwis join forces
to help Timorese
in Pacific Angel 15
More than 100 personnel from the NZDF, PACAF, and the U.S. Navy joined the Timor Leste
Armed Forces (F-FDTL) for a multilateral exercise in Timor Leste recently.
Participants in the exercise, called Pacangel, worked with
Timorese Government officials and local workers to provide
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HADR) planning techniques
and civil, military, and interagency interoperability to the
citizens of Baucau.
Pacangel operations are regularly conducted throughout
the Pacific theatre to support and build essential emergency
capacity in partner nations. Major General Tim Gall,
Commander Joint Forces New Zealand has said “One of the
important aspects of working alongside other countries is not
only to get to know each other better, but to understand how
each of us works… it is about working with our partners and
building those relationships that will help us work better in
the future. That is what we call interoperability… we should
seize opportunities to practise our capability to deploy with
other militaries...”.
Ali Carlin, Charge d’ Affairs, representing the Ambassador
of New Zealand, praised the work that was accomplished on
Pacangel through multilateral teamwork. “Working together
like this is win-win and improves the technical skills of each
individual and the ability to work as a team in a multinational environment. But most important are the personal
relations created.”
Dentist Major Philip Worthington tends to a patient.
Health Services Outreach (HSO), Engineering Civic Action
Programmes (ENCAP) and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges
(SMEE) were undertaken as part of the exercise. It was
about working hand-in-hand with other nations, focusing on
developing skills, techniques and procedures, and ultimately
building capability on all sides.
NZDF personnel were involved in providing dental care
as part of a wider HSO initiative, and engineering support
towards several local ENCAP projects. The NZ Army
contributed a liaison officer (Captain Cath Reid, RNZAEC), a
dentist (Major Philip Worthington), a dental assistant (Lance
Corporal Shaye Campbell), a hygienist (Corporal Kim Lewis),
a plumber LCPL Sidney Albert-Davies and a carpenter (Sapper
Reece Stairmand). New Zealand Army engineers worked
with U.S. and F-FDTL electricians, plumbers, carpenters and
structural craftsmen mainly in refurbishing the local Baucau
Medical University.
Ministry of Health Officials were appreciative of the upgrade
and were set to open the University again for students the
week after the contingent left. It provided much needed
classroom and accommodation space that previously had
been un-useable with a lack of adequate plumbing and
electrical facilities, rotting ceilings and roof-spaces, no doors
or windows and cracked and peeling walls and paint.
SPR Stairmand received an award for his work, which
included, among other tasks, teaching his local Timorese
counterpart some of the finer points involved in installing
door jams and doors.
The NZ Army dental team worked in conjunction with a team
of optometrists, family medicine doctors, physiotherapists
The New Zealanders.
The Kiwis help put a water tank in place.
and other dental experts to provide health care services for a
combined total of over 3200 patients at the Health Outreach
Services Clinics set up in the local Baucau Gymnasium.
They worked hard and long days, each team of dentists and
assistant seeing around 25 patients per day (the normal
patient load is approximately eight per day at home). Most of
the work involved extractions of rotten or painful teeth and
education on oral health care. Teams were mixed so that NZ
personnel were working with U.S. Air Force and Navy, and
local Timorese patient handlers and interpreters. Having very
little in the way of instruments and sterilising equipment
meant improvisation was big on the agenda. Local NZDF
MAP personnel currently posted to Dili, proved valuable in
providing equipment to enable sterilising, hence enabling the
whole dental operation to take place.
Captain Cath Reid with local children.
armyEXERCISE11
2/4 RNZIR train
in Exercise Ramshead
By John Cosgrove
Photos by John Cosgrove and SGT Lisa Hill
It was a high explosive training weekend at Tekapo
recently for more than 60 soldiers from 2/4 RNZIR who
had assembled there for Ex. Ramshead, a live firing
field training exercise.
Developing and enhancing the individual soldier’s
skill sets in pairs, fours and section level battle drills
under live firing conditions both in daylight and under
night conditions was the goal for the battalion’s
training staff. They had the added bonus of allowing
the soldiers to work with M203 40mm grenades and
M72 LAW 66mm high explosive rounds in support of
section battle drills.
It was also as a great opportunity for the many
newly promoted section commanders to develop
their command skills when operating in a live firing
situation all while coping with the stress of conducting
open country operations in the expansive Tekapo
training area.
Soldiers from the battalion’s three companies had
travelled from as far afield as Nelson and Invercargill
to attend this important training weekend and also
joining in the weekends activities were the Units
Honorary Colonel, COL Jim Cutler, and Padre MAJ
Brian Fennessy.
Exercise Ramshead was the culmination of many
different training exercises undertaken this year in
a number of locations around the South Island by
the three companies. The training is in preparation
for playing an active role in the Exercise Southern
Katipo being held later this year in the Nelson
Marlborough region.
12armyPEOPLE
The 2015 team.
Chefs at work.
Defence chefs
By Sergeant Nadia Pou-Edwards
New Zealand Defence Force
chefs can rub shoulders
with the best in the
hospitality industry from all
over New Zealand.
They proved that this year at the NZ Culinary Fare where the
25th anniversary of the Nestle Toque d’Or competition was
celebrated.
Two Defence Force teams comprising both Army and Navy
chefs and stewards were entered into this year’s NZ Culinary
fare held in Greenlane Auckland. Both teams were selected
from the annual Roy Smith competition that was held at the
Defence Catering School in Waiouru in April this year.
The build up was short but sweet for both teams who only
came together in the two and a half weeks leading into the
competition. The majority of the training institutes which
our chefs compete against train for a minimum of three to
six months prior to competition.
The Toque d’Or team comprised of Chefs LCPL Amber-Lee
Nui (2CSSB), PTE Isaac Watt (2CSSB), Front of house ASTD
Deana Johnson (HMNZS Philomel), Chef Coach/ Manager
SGT Nadia Pou-Edwards (Defence Catering School) and
FOH Coach LSTD Pip Wilson (HMNZS Philomel).
Toque d’Or criteria consisted of the following:
Starter: Petite Salad
Entrée: Fresh Whole Akaroa Salmon and 1 Nestle
Professional products
Main: NZ Beef and Lamb oxtail and whole sirloin, a
starch component and three Nestle Professional
products
Dessert:2 Nestle Professional products
All vegetables, if any made up components of the dishes,
had to be fresh New Zealand grown.
The Toque d’Or team was first to compete and both
coaches and City and Guilds team watched nervously
and anxious eyes. The Toque d’Or team fought admirably
against the 11 other training institutes from across New
Zealand but unfortunately didn’t take out top spot on the
podium. They can be proud of their valiant effort that saw
them awarded three silver medals in the kitchen and front
of house.
The City and Guilds Team skills event again proved why
it is in a class of its own. With a prize package to envy, the
The dishes entered into the competition.
amongst the best in the country
team worked and trained hard to ensure they were in with a
chance to take home the winners trophy.
The City and Guilds team comprised Chefs PTE Kiwi
Chambers (2CSSB), PTE Tyrone Broad (3CSSB), Front of house
PTE Kim De Schot (3CSSB), Chef Coach POCH Rowe Kaa
(Defence Catering School) and FOH Coach LSTD Pip Wilson.
The City and Guilds Team skills criteria consisted of the
following:
Starter: Breads and dip/oil. Smart Choice par-baked bread.
Most creative use of this ingredient won the
innovation award.
Entrée: Puhoi Cheese
Main: Cervena Venison rack
Dessert:Barkers products
The team competed with ease and showed few nerves once
they hit the kitchen. They worked methodically and with a
keen sense of urgency that saw them serve all dishes well
within the given timeframe. Though confident in the overall
result, unfortunately the CAGTT fell short of first place. All
team members can be commended on their results taking
home two silver medals in the kitchen and one gold medal in
the front of house.
Overall all competitors can be extremely proud of their
achievements and the way in which they represented the
NZDF in this year’s Culinary Fare. All members of the Defence
Force culinary team again show- cased the rare versatility of
our caterers on the national stage.
On behalf of the Defence Force Culinary team we would like
to thank everyone that took time out of their busy schedules
to come out and support us.
Service with a smile.
armyEXERCISE13
Exercise Vulcan Shield
tests loggies
By Lieutenants Jono Steele and David Hare
Soldiers from 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion
(2CSS Bn) raised their skill levels recently by taking
part in the all arms exercise Vulcan Shield which was
part of 1 (NZ) Brigade’s exercise Sari Bair.
Exercise Vulcan Shield aimed to develop the
understanding of Combat Logistic Patrols (CLPs),
Live Firing Training Tests (LFTTs), Break Contact Drills
(BCDs) and All Arms Call for Fire (AACFF).
The CLP Tactics Techniques and Procedures (TTPs)
were created by 3 CSS Bn to give Combat Service
Support (CSS) the ability to provide its own force
protection when moving in convoy in medium and high
threat environments. It saw the employment of CSS
soldiers and commanders in the role of an organic force
protection element. It does not rely on external units
such as QAMR or the Infantry battalions to provide
an escort force in order for CSS to conduct convoy
operations.
Collecting our Armoured Pinzgauers, we started off
by conducting TOETs on the Steyr and MAG 58, and
rehearsed BCDs dry and blank. Although most of our
guys had done these before, for many it had been a
number of years. Moving out into the training area,
we set about conducting LFTTs on the MAG 58, as well
as rehearsing BCDs live from the vehicles. This was a
great day out with all of the soldiers running through
the circuit a number of times and providing ample
opportunities to employ all the weapon systems.
We continued training in the hangars on a number of weapon
systems as well as comms equipment. In the afternoon
we underwent some lessons on the CLP concept, with all
commanders and soldiers gaining a greater understanding
of the actions and skills required to work within a CLP, be
that in the Force Protection (FP) or the CSS task vehicles. The
lessons certainly gave us a greater idea of how complicated
the drills were, even when dealing with a small force like
ours. We then stepped into the Weapons Training System to
conduct AACFF under the supervision of some United States
Marines, who would later provide real time support when we
called in live Artillery during our final patrol .
After some valuable roc drills in the hangars, we split off
into our two elements— the Logistics Platoon (Log Pl) and FP,
the the Log Pl being made up of two transport sections (each
made up of seven task vehs, in this case, MHOV), a Forward
Repair Team (FRT), and a Command element. This grouping
set off to hone their skills and their actions on, locating and
securing an Emergency Rendezvous (ERV). The FP consisting
of four Armoured LOV set about learning to operate a
crewed vehicle, the ins and outs of vehicle bounding and
subsequently working as a single cohesive unit.
After some blank runs on Friday, Saturday morning saw us
providing 16 Fd with help with a Distribution Point run by
their Battery Sargent Major. A couple of hours later we began
our final live patrol where we would employ everything we
had learnt over the week previous. The patrol began with the
CLP moving south down Deacons Rd. We were engaged by
OP Force, which prompted the FP to return fire and cover the
movement of the CLP out of the engagement area. During the
firefight a notional casualty was sustained and evacuated
utilising the skills FP had learnt earlier that week. At the
same time, the Log element secured an ERV and awaited
the arrival of FP. After all Log elements had safely made
it through the engagement area, FP conducted a fighting
withdrawal to the ERV.A live AACFF exercise was conducted
while the remainder of the CLP awaited LAV to escort the CLP
back to base. The LAV escort arrived shortly before dark and
the patrol returned to base safely.
Sunday morning was the end of the field phase for us,
but the work was not complete. We moved straight into
refurbishment, including cleaning and handing back of our
Armd LOV, our weapons and stores. With that complete our
Road Movement Orders were issued for our return to our unit.
Overall it was an extremely successful exercise. It was
a great learning environment and all personnel involved
got a great deal out of it as well as enjoying themselves.
While we are not masters of the Combat Logistics Patrol
just yet, the overall skillset of the battalion has increased
immensely. This exercise enabled the battalion to increase
its understanding of exactly what it takes to operate within
a CLP.
We all look forward to other opportunities to conduct live
firing on another combat logistic patrol in the future.
14armyPEOPLE
Care in a cup
It all started with the need for a
caffeine fix and within three years
a great idea has grown into a little
business that dispenses more
than good coffee.
The Command Post Café came about after a few Army
wives felt the need for somewhere to buy good coffee and
catch up with friends close to home. Home being Linton
Military Camp.
After finding a spot in the Linton Camp Library that would
fit the bill, the group including the then Commander of 1st
(NZ) Brigade’s wife Hayley Parsons and Melissa(Mel) Stott
went about trying to find the resources to make a café.
“We were amazed at the amount of people that came
forward to help. A group of volunteers put the whole thing
together and made it happen,” says Mel Stott.
And it’s still volunteers that keep it going.
“There’s never a lack of volunteers. The community spirit
here is amazing.”
Open from 0900-1200 Monday through to Friday
(excluding Tuesday) Mel is joined by Marama Packer, Leah
Cooper, Rachel Hall, Annabelle Schmid and Letitia Morris
volunteering their time to make sure there is hot coffee
and a warm welcome at the Command Post Café.
And as their uniformed husbands understand Courage,
Comradeship and Commitment well enough those values
are not only also shown by their family members in many
ways the café has its own version of the 3Cs in Coffee,
Conversation and Community.
The women behind the Command Post Café.
“It’s all about providing something for the community. Many
times people have come in here feeling a bit desperate over
a problem and by the time they have sat, had a coffee and
talked it out with someone else who has been through it, they
feel a lot better.”
But this is far more than just a place for the wives to hang
out and have a chat, these women are staunch supporters of
the place they live.
The café sponsors sports trophies for Linton Camp School
and donates coffee money from the school’s movie nights
at the library, the local kindergarten has benefited from
some new books and it is also a regular donator to The
Fallen Heroes Trust, making sure no August passes by
without the Trust receiving a donation.
“It’s our way of giving a little more back to the community
we live in.”
25 years of Suman Warrior marked
A team of 34 NZ Army
personnel from across a wide
variety of units both Regular
and reservists deployed to
Singapore to participate
in the 25th anniversary of
Exercise SUMAN Warrior. The
exercise is aimed to strengthen
regional ties and enhance
interoperability between
the armed forces of the
contributing countries.
Exercise SUMAN Warrior is a Tier 1 land focused Command
Post Exercise (CPX) which is held annually and attended by
members of the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA).
The five nations that make up the FPDA are:
• Singapore,
• United Kingdom,
• Malaysia,
• Australia, and
• New Zealand.
The main objective of the SUMAN Warrior 15 CPX was to
exercise Battalion headquarters within an FPDA generated
Combined Task Force (CTF) in the planning and conduct of a
conventional tactical campaign over an eleven day period.
Singapore
Each country contributed a battalion sized group headquarters
plus additional assets such as Air Force and Naval personnel
in support of the CTF. For the exercise, an ANZAC Battalion
was created that consisted of a Battalion headquarters, two
NZLAV Sqns, a Support Company, a CSS Coy, and an Australian
Light Infantry Company (with Bushmaster Protected Mobility
Vehicles (PMV) attached). Contingents also supplied members
to the HICON and the OPFOR elements that were also part of
the command post exercise.
“New Zealand and the other FPDA partners share the
united kingdom
malaysia
common interest of the security and stability of the
region. Our ability to practice our interoperability
and enhance our professional learning with the other
countries plays an important part. Singapore and
Malaysia are the centre of a vital trade route for New
Zealand, with our exports and interests in the region
making it essential that we are able to work effectively
together and support each other should the need
arise,” the Commanding Officer of the combined ANZAC
Battalion, LTCOL Brendon Jull said.
australia
new zealand
armyPEOPLE15
A 100 man guard from 1st New Zealand Brigade at
Linton Military Camp exercised the Charter that
was bestowed on the Camp in 1956 by the mayor of
Palmerston North recently by marching through the
streets of the city with bayonets fixed, colours flying
and drums beating as the Charter allows them.
Linton Military Camp was the first camp to be
bestowed a Charter, an honour usually reserved for
a Regiment. The small lunchtime crowd loved the
spectacle of seeing soldiers in full military dress in the
centre of town. Commander 1 (NZ) Brigade COL Hugh
McAslan said the camp was proud to be part of the city
and the soldiers and their families endeavoured to be
as active a part of the community as they could.
16armyPEOPLE
Women’s Development
The Army Women’s
Development
Steering Group
The Army Women’s Development Steering Group is part of
a wider focus across Defence to recruit, develop and retain
more women in order to more effectively meet the outputs of
the NZDF. How we fit into that wider picture helps inform how
we focus our efforts within the Army steering group.
opportunity to influence at the strategic decision making
level and to provide advice on ways to increase women’s
participation across the Defence Force. The NZDF WDSG
operates at the strategic level to influence policy that affects
members across all three Services, as well as civilians.
More military women
Army, Navy and Air Force Women’s
Development Steering Groups
The More Military Women programme was initiated by CDF to
pull together a number of existing work streams to identify
how to increase the participation and development of
women in the NZDF. It was established in recognition that the
potential of women in the NZDF had not been fully realised
due to both known and unknown barriers. Its aim is to ensure
the NZDF is an organisation of excellence by attracting the
best, and leading a diverse skilled force in any military task,
in any location in the world. To assist the programme in
achieving this it uses the Women’s Development Steering
Groups (Navy, Army, Air Force and NZDF) to carry out their
terms of reference and engage with women and men to bring
about change.
NZDF Women’s Development Steering Group
(NZDF WDSG)
The NZDF WDSG was commissioned in February 2013 by
the Chief of Defence Force, following recommendations
from the NZDF Women’s Development Forum in 2011. It was
established to give women within the Defence Force a greater
Nested under the NZDF WDSG are the single service steering
groups. For the Army group our focus is on contributing to an
effective combat land force and we do this through advocating
Army women’s development initiatives, providing advice to
Army senior leadership, and engaging with men and women
across the Army on a wide variety of issues. We also provide
feedback into the NZDF WDSG on aspects of policy that need
to be reviewed from a Defence perspective. We deal with what
can appear to be minor issues (hair and jewellery), through
to initiatives to develop an organisational culture where both
men and women can achieve their potential.
We exist to serve the members of the NZ Army and its
civilians and we can only do this with your feedback. Given
the position of the Army WDSG in relation to other groups
and projects, what do you want us to focus on? Send us your
thoughts to NZDF.WDSG-A on DIXS, or contact your local rep.
Not all the issues we deal with seem important in the big
scheme of things but we rely on facts and research as much
as possible to inform our decisions. Changes to the hair and
jewellery policy have caused much discussion across the
camps as to whether it’s worth wasting our time on. The issue
was not raised by the steering group, rather we were asked
for our input. It was seen as appropriate to bring us in line
with our Navy and Air Force counterparts, but from a more
strategic perspective, independent research shows that young
women who could realise their potential in the Army are put
off enlisting because of the rigid hair and jewellery rules.
The long term impact on our recruiting numbers and women
moving through the pipeline is actually significant. It has been
quite curious to see the level of discussion generated over
this, as when the policy regarding the length of sideburns for
men was changed barely a whisper was raised.
So, the challenge is with you. What do you want the WDSG
(A) to achieve on your behalf? Perhaps you could think about
it in this way: ‘What is the one thing you would like to see
change in the Army in order for your daughter or niece to join
and achieve her potential?’
The members of the WDSG (A) are chosen by DCA and
we’re currently looking for expressions of interest for
the role of chairperson as LTCOL Kate Lee is taking
up an overseas posting. This role is open to men and
women. Are you the person to take us forward?
Did you know?
1
How to request made to measure, or changes to
your uniforms
Ref – Soldier System Book – Issue 18
2
What is your uniform scale of entitlement?
Ref – NZP23, Part 5
This outlines what items of uniform clothing you are entitled to.
Including those that are returnable.
Ordering – Made to measure and specials
If individuals, for medical or body shape reasons, are unable to be provided
with clothing for existent NZDF sizing ranges the following process is applied
to maintain standardisation:
Clothing
•
Go to your Clothing Store, the Tailor or
Seamstress will measure you utilising
the approved TWG measurement sheet.
•
The Clothing Store will raise a demand
on SRM using your Units CC and utilising
the ‘Special NIINs’ as listed in Part 6
of the NZP23.
•
Clothing Store staff must then email
through the measurement chart to TWG
customer services, with details of the
purchase order it pertains to.
3
Recent changes to MCU
Ref – Soldier systems Sep 15 page 5–6
MCU Version 1.2 has been released, which includes some
significant changes to both the MCH shirt and trousers.
Key changes are:
MCU Shirt
1
The velcro used for closure down the front of the garment has been
replaced with concealed buttons
2
Elbow pad pockets have been removed and reinforcing patches
added in this area
MCU Trousers
3
The waist closure is now buttons, one external button with a back up
internal button
4
The small front thigh pocket now has a single concealed central
button instead of two pieces of Velcro
5
The side bellow pocket’s buttons are now concealed
6
The lower leg tourniquet pockets has been removed
7
Knee pad pockets are now closed and are two layers of fabric
offering additional reinforcing in this crucial area (the current knee
pad will still fit into the new pocket)
armyHEALTH AND SAFETY17
Safety
it’s everyone’s
business
Safety is everybody’s business and we all have a role to play. While it may be our duty to
put ourselves in harms way, it’s always important, in training and on operations, that we
remain situationally aware and manage the risks around us.
On 4 April 2016, the new Health and Safety at Work
Act will come into force. But what does this mean for
the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and, more
importantly, you?
At the coalface very little will change – this new Act
still requires the Defence Force to keep its people
safe, and provide a safe work environment and safe
equipment. Hazards will still need to be identified
and assessed. Risks will need to be eliminated or
minimised, and injuries and incidents, including near
misses, must still be investigated to ensure similar
events don’t occur again.
Most soldiers and civilians won’t see too much
change in their everyday working life. The new Act
wont change how we train or operate, but it will place
importance on managing critical risks, focusing on
how to stop people getting hurt, rather than hazard
spotting. This means that all commanders, and those
responsible for an activity, must take all ‘reasonably
practicable’ steps to ensure health and safety. Given
the nature of our work, it’s important to understand
what this means – we won’t be asking you to avoid
doing something just in case it’s dangerous, however
we will expect all leaders in the Defence Force to plan
to control, as far as is reasonably practicable, the risks.
We need you to be risk aware, not risk averse.
The new Act also reinforces accountability, placing
more specific responsibilities on leaders within the
organisation. At the highest level, the Chief of Defence
Force and Service Chiefs will become ‘officers under
the Act’, which means they must proactively engage in
health and safety matters and make sure we meet our
obligations under the new Act.
The new Act applies to all members of the Defence Force
– civilians and Armed Forces, except when carrying out
operations, which includes training in direct preparation
for a specific operation. The exemption also covers
other workers carrying out work for the Armed Forces on
operations.
This doesn’t mean we can ignore health and safety while
training for or on operations; as a rule we should follow
or exceed normal regulations, unless there is a real and
compelling operational reason why we shouldn’t.
Quite simply, no matter what you’re doing, or where
you are, if you’re carrying out a Defence Force activity
you must, as far as is reasonably practicable, manage
all risks. Think about it this way – would you drive on the
wrong side of the road if you were aware of the risks?
To support this change, the Directorate of Health and
Safety (DHS) is developing a new overarching policy for
the Chief of Defence Force, to replace current health and
safety DFOs. We are also creating supporting material,
to ensure everyone can easily access and understand
the requirements the policy will place on NZDF, a new
simpler reporting system and standardising safety
investigation processes. In addition, we’ll be looking
at how the NZDF incorporates new requirements for
worker participation.
It’s important to note that we’re not reinventing the
wheel; safety management is already a crucial part
of what NZDF does. You manage risk everyday, often
without even realising it.
Our job is to ensure risk management is first and foremost in everything we do, and ensure you have the tools
you need. Over the next few months, keep an eye out for
more information about the new Act, how it will affect
you and what we’re doing in the health and safety space.
And remember, we’ve all got a role to play – if
something feels wrong, call it out; we need to know to
fix it.
OPERATIONS FIRST, SAFETY ALWAYS
“SHE’LL
BE
RIGHT
MATE”
by Major Tony Williams, Safety and Risk Manager,
TRADOC
How many incidents causing
serious harm or worse
have been instigated with
these very words? Our Kiwi
approach to safety isn’t
always the best. We seem to
have developed a “chilled”
attitude wrapped sometimes
in a macho blanket and use
the old number eight wire
method of doing things way
too often when much more
is demanded of us.
At NZDF and Army, there are people working hard to
ensure we have the very best, World Class Capability and
Systems leadership in place to give us standardised rules
and procedures that will save lives and help to prevent
harm. What is our responsibility in all of this?
Simply put, each and every one of us, military and
civilian, have a responsibility to look after ourselves
and others. Every great army is built on the foundations
of a strong, self leadership culture. If we see something
wrong, shout it out before it is too late. Wear the right kit
and do the right things.
When you are sorted, turn to your mates and check to
see if they are OK. Have they got the right gear? Are they in
the right place? Are they looking confident or worried and
can you help them sort it out? Leading teams is a force
multiplier beyond compare.
Leading leaders is an honour many of us will face
one day. Are you walking the talk, setting the scene,
maintaining the standards or have you taken a “working
holiday”? You cannot afford to. As leaders, we have
people relying on us to get them through training safely.
Then, and only then will they have the confidence in us to
lead them on operations and into combat.
So we all have a responsibility in the values chain
of safety whether you are sitting in a Headquarters
establishing capability and systems, or in the field or
in camp, leading, being a member of a team, or simply
looking after your own safety. “She’ll be right mate” is a
weak person’s excuse for failing to check. We are better
than this. We are the New Zealand Army, part of A Force
for New Zealand. Make safety our number one focus
and ONWARD.
18armyEXERCISE
EX KOTIMANA
WARRIOR
2015
By CPL Whetu Matehaere, School of Signals
The RNZ Sigs exercise
Kotimana Warrior is designed
to test the newly acquired
fundamental trade skills of the
newest members of the Corps.
It is the culmination of the 12 week course which tests all
facets of what the course members have been taught and
was based in the Waiouru training area.
The first few days of the exercise were run out of Linton
Military Camp, and consisted of an introduction for the 22
members of the course on how to operate as a member of
a Sigs detachment. The course members were split into six
detachments, each commanded by a 1 NZ Signal Regiment
detachment commander, and taught how to operate from
the C2 Pinzgauer platform. This involved everything from
learning how to cam and conceal the vehicle, to using the
kit to support a command post, culminating in a road move
to Waiouru.
The exercise in Waiouru was designed to test the different
roles that the detachments could be employed in in New
Zealand or abroad. Each detachment carried out different
roles for 48 hours before moving onto the next task.
The different roles included:
Combat Net Radio (CNR) Detachment – mounted in a
Command and control Pinzgauer with VHF and HF radios, its
role is to maintain VHF and HF networks.
Sigs hone their skills throughout the exercise.
Remote Communications Access Node (RCAN) – also
mounted in a command and control Pinzgauer, in addition
to VHF and HF radios it also has a 1.2m satellite dish,
GSM connection for on the move communications and four
laptops that enable the supported units to connect into the
military network.
Retransmission detachment (RTX) – usually vehicle
mounted with the same fit as a CNR wagon, it provides VHF
Range extension. For this exercise the trainees established
man-packed RTX, carrying their radios and equipment onto
high features to link the command post with distributed
detachments.
Command Post (CP) – the trainees had to establish and
operate a small command post in Helwan Camp, set up to
receive messages by voice and data from the detachments
out in the training area.
The trainees practised and were tested in a detachment
setting on their speed, accuracy, teamwork and attention to
detail in establishing communications back to the command
post. Each detachment would relocate and re-establish up to
eight times during daylight hours. This was complemented by
night moves and setups.
Between moves the detachments had to maintain
communication circuits and transmit messages throughout.
Repetition of these drills saw timings and standards
improving. The inter-detachment setup challenge was hotly
contested, with excellent results demonstrated by all. The
fastest team of trainees finished with a setup time of 12m
47s, however, youth couldn’t outdo the experience of their
detachment commanders, with Signaller Ngatokoa Tikitau
taking charge to have his team finish in 10m 55s. Well done to
all involved!
After a long successful period of testing it was time to head
home, however there was still time for one more twist. On
the last day we headed into the Waiouru Camp Gym and with
brave faces the trainees filled in the RFL record sheet. After
a warm up session the trainees were thrown a few rugby
and basket balls and told to crack on. This was met with
relief and morale was soon sky high. After 30min of sports,
a short sharp whistle blow cut through the air and stunned
trainees looked around with wary silence. After some short,
sharp instructions from the PTI, the trainees moved out to
the RFL start line and they were off, still wondering what
armyEXERCISE19
had happened. On completion of the RFL it was straight into
the pool for the Basic Water Swim Test (BWST), followed by
a much appreciated 20 minute recuperation break where
food and water was devoured by all. Rest over, it was packs
on and into a 7km walk around the training area. At the end
of the 7kms they were ambushed by the OPFOR and it was
off again on a 6km webbing run with the OPFOR following
behind picking up equipment. All in all it was a mentally
and physically challenging and exhausting day. All members
of the course cracked into it with a great attitude, showing
resilience throughout, and they were asleep by 1900 hrs
that night!
The following morning we set off back to Linton Camp to
conduct exercise clean up and refurbishment. That was
the end of EX Kotimana Warrior 2015 and it was then onto
rehearsals for the graduation of the class of 2015 RNZ Sigs
Corps Training.
20armyEXERCISE
Exercise
Tartan Tactics 2015
armyEXERCISE21
Words and photos by John Cosgrove
It was literally a case of four seasons in one day, from
blue skies and warm winds to heavy rain, freezing
cold and snow flurries which confronted more than
70 soldiers from the South Island based 2/4 RNZIR
NZ Army Reserve Battalion who took part in Exercise
Tartan Tactics 2015.
The battalion’s four companies: Alpha (Christchurch),
Bravo (Dunedin), Charlie North ( Nelson/Marlborough)
and Charlie South (Invercargill/Central), had
assembled in Dunedin for a weekend of individual,
section and platoon level training supported by
elements from 3 HSC and 3CSSB.
Exercise Tartan Tactics ‘15 was the latest in a series
of combined elements field exercises which saw the
soldiers undertake a variety of open and close country
section and platoon battle drills deep in the dense
bush surrounding the Waitati Range just north of
Dunedin. The unit’s young officers undertook TEWTS
back at KAH before joining their men in the field to
confirm their training.
Snow and threatening southerly weather front
brought about logistical and safety concerns which
forced upon exercise control a late move from their
original planned AO high on the exposed Rocklands
plateau, some 70km inland of Dunedin, back down to
the Waitati site.
SSGT Gareth Manson said that despite the heavy
rain and intermittent snow falls experienced over the
weekend at Waitati, the units’ instructors felt they had
achieved all their goals for the training of the soldiers
in preparation for the battalions’ next major combined
exercise, the live field firing Ex. Ramshead which will
be held at Tekapo.
“After the late relocation of the area of operation from
Rocklands back to Waitati we set about making the
location work for us and were committed to achieving
the goals of the training schedule to fine tune the
individual soldiers battle skills in preparation for their
platoon level live field firing exercise at Tekapo.”
Following Saturday’s round robin of training stands
the exercise finished on Sunday morning with a
platoon level attack in the bush area in-between snow
flurries and showers.
22armyHEALTH AND SAFETY
Train Safe
Train Safe Case Study 31
Train Safe Case Study 32
Firepower is a key component of manoeuvre and dismounted close combat. The
application of high volumes of accurate direct fire destroys, suppresses and fixes
the enemy, thereby assisting the Infantry in achieving its mission of closing with and
defeating the enemy in all operations throughout the spectrum of conflict. The 0.50
inch Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) is a highly effective, reliable and battle-proven weapon
system which provides an organic capability to defeat a variety of targets ranging from
lightly armoured vehicles to dismounted enemy soldiers.
The operator is perhaps the last link in the management chain of command.
Unfortunately, in this period of manning shortfalls there is a tendency for operators
to be loaded with far more responsibility than either their rank, their training or their
experience equips them for. It is the duty of commanders at all levels to ensure that
operators are not loaded with inappropriate responsibilities and duties, but are well
supported and assisted by section and crew members. For example, the servicing of a
LAV is a crew task that must be led by the vehicle commander. The driver, who often has a
greater level of expertise and training, is well placed to assist with supervising key tasks
and training other crew members, thus spreading the pool of knowledge and workload.
The Incident
xx A unit was conducting a Live Field Firing activity with HMG mounted on the tripod
(on loan from another unit) in the Tekapo Military Training Area.
xx At the conclusion of the activity, the weapons were cleaned and returned to the
borrowing unit storeman.
xx The weapons were not post fire inspected by the Range Conducting Officer (RCO) or
safety staff.
xx When the weapons were returned to the owner unit a serviceability check was
carried out by a qualified Armourer.
xx Heavy coppering was found in the bore and in the case of the ‘A’ barrel, did not
allow the Gauge Plug Bore (barrel straightness gauge) to pass.
The Incident
xx A unit was pre positioning vehicles in Waiouru for an upcoming plant task.
xx A hand-over occurred mid-service between the unit and the Vehicle Servicing
Facility (VSF).
xx The front differential was drained and the bung replaced.
xx During the road move to Waiouru, the differential overheated and failed.
Facts
xx The activity was planned and the
Safety Instruction and Notification
of Field Firing (SINOFF) instruction
produced one day in advance of the
activity.
xx The RCO thought he was qualified
due to his qualification and
experience with the M2HB HMG
T50 turret of the M113 Armoured
Personnel Carrier (APC).
xx Pre fire checks were conducted
prior to the loan, and on the day
of the activity, and no faults were
recorded.
xx Bursts of 20 – 25 rounds were fired
which is above the approved rate of
4 – 6 rounds (rds) at the rapid rate.
xx The barrels were changed every
200 rds rather than 100 rds.
Facts
xx The crown wheel and pinion gears
melted.
xx A JNCO was driving the vehicle at
the time the damage occurred.
xx The driver reported the damage to
the unit transport dispatcher.
xx It was thought that the differential
had been fully serviced as the bung
had been replaced.
xx The vehicle was damaged as a
result of an incomplete service.
Findings
xx The planner and the RCO did have
previous experience with the
HMG, however were unaware of
the current prime references for
both the weapon and the safety
regulations.
xx The safety supervisors were not
qualified in accordance with current
qualification requirements.
xx Incorrect Tactics Techniques
and Procedures (TTP’s) for the
engagement of targets including
rates of fire higher than those
authorised were taught and applied
during the LFF activity.
xx At the time Interim Safety
Regulations/Policy for the HMG
weapon system were published by
Weapons and Range Safety in signal
format and were not widely known.
Conclusion – Fault Checking and Individual Responsibility
xx What do you think?
xx The cost of the repairs were met by the borrowing unit.
xx The safety rules and regulations for HMG are now contained in DFO (A) Vol 2 Book 1,
Safety in Training.
xx The damage could have been avoided if the rates of fire had been adhered to, and
strictly supervised.
xx Discolouration that remains after cooling is evidence of overheating commonly
caused by excessive rates of fire.
‘We must be big enough to admit our mistakes,
smart enough to profit from them, and strong
enough to correct them’.
This case study is based on real events.
Some details have been omitted to protect privacy.
Findings
xx The differential oil had not been
replaced.
xx There was an inadequate handover
between outgoing and incoming
servicing parties.
xx The VSF at the time was under
manned which led to an absence of
direct supervision.
xx Certain servicing drills had not
been properly adhered to.
xx It could not be determined as to
who replaced the bung.
Conclusion – Fault Checking and Individual Responsibility
xx What do you think?
xx Handovers between individuals at the VSF were not conducted appropriately.
xx VSF servicing procedures were reviewed and if deemed necessary additional
measures put in place to further prevent reoccurrences of this nature.
xx A number of basic errors and circumstantial occurrences contributed to the failure
to fill the differential with oil during the vehicle service.
‘Use your eyes to see the needs, and your talents
to meet them’.
This case study is based on real events.
Some details have been omitted to protect privacy.
armySPORT23
Age group triathlon
give it a go!
About a year ago Lieutenant
Colonel Mel Childs read an
article in the Army News by
Staff Sergeant Kelly Carter
detailing her success at
representing New Zealand at
the Age Group International
Triathlon Union World
Championships in Canada.
It set her wondering…
“I remember reading it and thinking how much I would love to
achieve something like that. But that was certainly way out of
my reach, or so I thought.
I am relatively new to triathlon. I completed my first tri in
2004 which was a Women’s Special K in Kinloch, Taupo and
then decided I’d give Taupo Half Ironman a go in 2007. Other
than these two events I didn’t get ‘into’ tris until 2012 after
I had had our second child. We were posted to Linton and I
used to see the Manawatu Tri Club events at Linton Military
Camp on a Sunday.
I competed in these local events for fun and fitness and was
then posted to Wellington mid 2014 and found the Wellington
Triathlon and Multisport Club and started joining in with
some of their sessions.
It was during a run with another member of the club that
I learned that the Sprint Distance National Championships
Triathlon (750m swim, 20km cycle, 5km run) was being held
in two weeks time in Kinloch. This was to be the selection
event for the World Championships. I thought that would
be a great triathlon to participate in and an opportunity to
benchmark myself against others in my age group and then
maybe the following year, (with a solid year of training behind
me) I could attempt selection.
A friend and I travelled to Kinloch and completed the Sprint
Distance Triathlon and had a blast. Little did we know (this
being the first Sprint distance we had both completed) how
much it would hurt. But we felt great having completed and
hit the road soon after finishing to get back to Wellington for
work the next day.
While we were driving I received a phone call from a
Wellington Tri Club member who advised me that I had come
third in my Age Group and had been called to the podium to
receive the National Champs Bronze and the Oceania Champs
Bronze. To say this was a surprise was an understatement.
As a result this meant that I had qualified for the ITU AG World
Champs in Chicago later in 2015. I received an e-mail a few
weeks later from Triathlon NZ advising that I had indeed
been selected.
It was time to get a coach!
LTCOL Mel Childs with her medal.
From March – September 2015 I was coached by Jenny Rose
(Elite World and Long Distance ITU World Champion with
many other titles to her name). Winter training was a true test
of mental fortitude but I had everything to gain and stuck
with it.
Before I knew it, it was September and time to learn how to
dismantle and reassemble my road bike for travel and to get
on the plane. We arrived in Chicago at around midnight on
Sunday night. As the Aquathlon World Champs Race was the
day before the Sprint Tri World Champs race there were only
approximately 50 women in my age group (the rest saving
themselves for the main event). I performed better than I
imagined in this race, the swim was actually 840m (nearly
100m longer) and we had a head current so, not
being from a swimming background, I was definitely not with
the lead group. I managed to make up some ground in the
run and passed a number of other athletes. I placed 15th in
the Aquathlon.
As soon as the starters’ horn went the next day, adrenalin
kicked in. The swim course was the same as the day before,
one very long straight with only one buoy to turn to the exit
stairs. I was mentally prepared for this. It was pretty rough
with people swimming over others, people pulling on other
people’s legs. Brutal. The transition was long and then it
was into the bike leg. I had hired some race wheels so they
helped me post my best average speed over 20kms yet. Off
the bike, and into the run. We were racing in 32 degrees heat
again and some people were fading. I ran a good time (albeit
1min slower than the aquathlon the day before) which saw me
pass a large number in my age group to finish on the ITU blue
carpet alongside the famous Buckingham Fountain (think
Married with Children) in 16th place out of the 90 athletes in
my age group.
To say this was an awesome experience is an
understatement. Wearing the silver fern was amazing and
interacting with the other countries (over 80 represented)
was incredible. Overall the New Zealand Team came away
with five medals and some excellent performances with a
few top 10 places. It was a tough year with a large number of
North American Age Group athletes dominating the fields.
Age Group Triathlon is self funded and so I was very
fortunate to have great support from the Chief of Army and
NZ Army Singapore Fund who provided a donation to assist
in my travel and insurance expenses. I also conducted a
raffle which saw incredible support from colleagues in The
Wellington Defence Area, friends and family. Many thanks
also to the Wellington Officer’s Mess who hosted a Quiz Night
to assist with fundraising. A huge thank you must go to AC
CAP, DCWG and my colleagues at Capability Branch who have
supported me in so many ways in the lead up to this event.
Thank you to SSGT Carter for providing the inspiration and
support to ‘give it a nudge’. As a full time working mother
of two, with a deployed husband I could not have done this
without the support of my family (Penny and Niel and Mum
and Dad and Ants) and friends. Thank you to everyone who
has supported me.”
24armySPORT
PTE Gerard Bell during the cycling section…
ironman world
championships
New Zealand Army medic Private Gerard Bell learned a lot
about himself when he crossed to the other side of the world to
compete in the Ironman 70.30 World Championships, he writes.
“I left a cold Christchurch winter in August for the warm
weather of Austria to race at the championships. As this
was to be my first time travelling more than three hours on a
plane, my first stop was two days in Hong Kong which was my
first introduction to heat and humidity levels that I could only
hope I would not be faced with in Europe.
Two days later I arrived in Munich, Germany to much cooler
temperatures much to my relief. After a quick drive down
the autobahn into Austria we arrived in the town of Zell
Am See which can only be described as Queenstown on
steroids. From here I had five days to get accustomed to the
increasingly hotter weather and familiarise myself with the
course which included a 13km climb with a 14% bite at the
end of it. On the Friday evening we had a parade of nations
which was most enjoyable and it was great to see the flags
of the 73 countries being represented. Race day dawned a
perfect sunny day with low winds. This would be the first time
I had done a race that didn’t start early in the morning and as
the 1100 race time neared the realisation that all those hours
in the cold, rain, sleet hail and snow were about to be put to
the test. There’s always a moment when you’re bobbing in the
water waiting for the cannon when it all hits home that the
hard work is done and then you’re off.
I swam the fastest I ever have over this distance shaving
almost two minutes off my previous best. Heading out onto
the bike you could feel it was going to be a tough day in the
sun. Despite not feeling my best, I managed to get through
the bike without any mechanical issues or accidents although
my stomach was already suffering from the huge amounts of
fluid I was taking on board which I was out of practice coping
with over winter. It took its toll as I struggled to hit a run
pace I needed to achieve my pre race goal. The run became
somewhat of a survival mission and the drink station and
garden hose was like paradise. As I made my way for the last
time up the cobbled climb to the finishing straight I knew I
was well off my goal but I had given it what I had on the day
and was proud none the less as I grabbed the New Zealand
flag from my fiancé and crossed the finish line. I was in the
middle of the field of my age group but I learnt a great deal
about my body and have even more drive to qualify again for
a world championship spot next year.
None of this would have been possible without the financial
support of the Burnham UPF, the Singapore Fund and the
Burnham Soldiers club. I’d also like to thank my command
at 3HSC and 2HSB for their support and my coach SSGT Ray
Boardman who kept me honest over the winter and helped
me achieve a few personal bests along the way.”
…and finishing the race.
armySPORT25
Golden Oldies
take to the field
In September 20 NZDF personnel donned the Army strip to play a Golden Oldies rugby
game against the Wairarapa Bush Golden Oldies team. The game was played on the
new artificial turf in the Memorial Stadium in Masterton.
Initially the NZDF team struggled to adapt to the Golden Oldie rules, including no
kicking, no pushing in the scrum and no competing for the ball once a player takes the
ball to the ground. The Wairarapa Bush team also made the most of their older players
(four over 60) who could not be tackled, but either held or hindered. Moreover, to level
the playing field NZDF provided the Bush with three of their younger players. However,
as the game progressed the fitness of the NZDF team started to show.
The game ended in the traditional way with a draw, a handshake and a few well
chosen words. The Bush team noted that it had been their most enjoyable game of the
season. The general opinion being that Defence teams always play within the spirit of
the game, "hard, yet fair". The final word was that we will make this an annual fixture,
with the NZDF hosting the next game in Trentham in 2016.
Rugby World Cup 2015 and deployed NZDF personnel
1
From Kuwait:
I will be on shift so I will probably just be able to follow the scores on the Internet.
A couple of the other Kiwis over here are meeting up with the Brits and Aussies to watch
the games. The rugby playing nations are pretty excited about it.
2
From Taji:
Our troops will most certainly be able to watch the Rugby World Cup. All of the games are
available to New Zealand and Australian troops in Camp Taji through both a computer
streamed solution which is available through the Australian Defence Force or via satellite TV.
Already there is a lot of anticipation within the contingent with several World Cup Draws
on the wall around our living and working accommodation and plenty of discussion of who
we think the All Blacks will play in the Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals, and Final – we’re
100% behind our guys and don’t buy into Sir Clive Woodward’s ramblings or Phil Kearns’
agitating!
As we’re part of a combined New Zealand and Australian Task Group, there is most
definitely a friendly rivalry between the two nations but we’re all agreed that we want
the Southern Hemisphere teams to do well and, in particular, will support the All Blacks
and Wallabies.
3
2
5
4
From Israel and Lebanon:
Many of us do not have access to paid television so we rely on the expatriate community
to invite us to their houses to watch the games. We are also fortunate to have many other
countries represented here that are participating in the World Cup, such as Italy, Ireland,
Fiji and France. Where our officers are co-located with these contingents we will join them
in watching the games. We are finding that the RWC15 is a great conversation starter and
we look forward to the ongoing challenges and discussions as each game is played!
4
3 1
From South Sudan:
In some locations in South Sudan, we receive really good satellite coverage with South
African broadcast (John Mitchell providing half-time assessment). I and a fellow New
Zealander watched the first NZ game with some African work colleague while our two
Military Liaison Officers watched it with our Dutch colleagues. We outlined the rules of the
game to new found rugby fans while explaining that as World Champions we would pull
away from Argentina for the win in the second half.
We will watch most of the remaining games here at 2200 local time, which works
favourably.
5
From Bahrain:
Unfortunately, we weren't able to track down a venue that played the opening RWC match.
However, we intend to find a location that is safe to visit before the All Blacks game in a few
days. As Bahrain is ahead of London by three hours in terms of timing, the games will be on
TV late afternoon and early each night so hope to finish work at 1700 and catch the latter
game of the two each day, in particular the All Blacks game.
We are fortunate here to be working alongside a range of nationalities including but
not limited to the US, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Italy, Germany, South Korea, Japan,
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia etc. So I have printed off the programme and we hope to have a few
good games where the staff can get involved and support their own teams. Although the
majority of personnel here aren't huge rugby followers/supporters and don't know the rules
(don't care!). Hopefully that will change when the World Cup games get into the quarter,
semi and finals.
26armySPORT
DEFENCE BLACKS
DEFEAT THE ROYAL NAVY
ROYAL NAVY 24 | DEFENCE BLACKS 34
A big match between the Defence Blacks and hosts the Royal
Navy proved to be an awesome battle, punctuated with
superb play, and a ferocity at the breakdown. Three yellow
cards were issued in the first half, 2 to the RN and one to NZ,
showing the limits the players were pushing to. Ultimately
New Zealand won the game through outplaying their
opposition and outscoring 4 tries to 3 for a bonus point win.
The Defence Blacks started slowly and it was the Royal Navy
who had the better of the early exchanges. On the back foot
New Zealand lost prop Angus White to the bin for an apparent
deliberate knock on. However, the fact that they were only
6–3 down at the end of their period with 14 men, following
two penalties from Jon Humphrey for the Royal Navy and one
by Ben Wyness for New Zealand was primarily due to the
outstanding efforts and vision by Defence Blacks scrum half,
Hamish Pyne, whose regular breaks around the fringes from
turnover possession gained the Defence Blacks the front foot
on a number of occasions.
Mid way through the first spell the Royal Navy further
extended their lead through a rolling maul after a kick to the
corner. RN captain Ben Priddey came up with the ball over the
line. Jon Humphrey couldn’t land the conversion but the home
supporters were enjoying the Royal Navy’s play.
However, some brilliant hands and option taking from the
Defence Blacks soon had the visitors on the front foot. Under
pressure the home team conceded a number of penalties
and eventually the referee lost patience and the Royal Navy
skipper was shown yellow for repeated sealing of the ball at
the tackle to slow the advance of the Defence Blacks. Wyness
landed the kick to reduce the Navy’s lead to just 5. The
Royal Navy was shortly after reduced further to 13 men for
dangerous play after a vigorous neck roll was sighted at the
breakdown.
The Defence Blacks had already shown a voracious appetite
to flood the contact zone when they saw a half chance and
likewise they upped their intensity to capitalise on the short
numbered Royal Navy team. With the ball coming back to
Pyne at speed he was able to control the game and the RN
defence had no reply. Shortly after, Defence Blacks Number
8, Ben Achillies, latched on to a short pop pass to level the
score. Wyness added the conversion and for the first time
New Zealand were in front 13–11. The Royal Navy needed to
weather the onslaught but from the restart they were soon
back deep in their own half, scrambling in defence. Unable
to slow the possession the infringement came and it was the
Defence Blacks’ time to turn the screw. A kick to the corner,
very good lineout ball, maul and prop Karl Furey pushed
through two players to go over in the left corner. A superb kick
from the touchline by Ben Wyness merely added salt to the
Royal Navy’s open wound. 20–11 at half time, with the Royal
Navy back at full strength for the start of the second half.
The Royal Navy needed to score first in the second half and
they enjoyed some early possession. This they did, partly due
to a very effective scrum. Consecutive scrum penalties gave
Jon Humphrey of the RN a chance at goal and his kick reduced
the deficit to a single score.
The restart though caught the Royal Navy napping.
They were unable to defend against strong running New
Zealand centre, Logan Broughton, who brushed aside
Silvenusi Buinimasi with a big fend for the decisive score of
the match. Wyness’ conversion extended the Defence Blacks
lead to 27–14.
Again the RN composure lacked and they conceded ground
through a high tackle by replacement centre, Darrne Bamford.
The resulting kick to the corner set up New Zealand for the
driving maul. However, the Defence Blacks instead took the
ball from the top of the lineout and outstanding midfield
passing and good lines found more holes in the RN defence.
Fullback Greg Ballam outpaced his opposite number and
scored the bonus point try in the corner. It was well executed
play that put the final nail in the home teams coffin especially
when another excellent Wyness kick made it 34–14.
The Defence Blacks then had to endure an uncomfortable
last quarter testament to the Royal Navy raising their
game. However, foul play from the RN 1st5 Nathan Huntley
made him the RN’s third yellow card. Before the card Dave
Fairbrother had been driven over from a maul and after the
card Ben Chambers broke clear on the left to score in the
corner. Neither conversion was kicked but the Defence Blacks
lead was reduced to ten points.
However, the Defence Blacks’ defensive patterns and
execution at the breakdown ultimately proved too great for
the home team and the visitors were triumphant.
armySPORT27
MATCH SQUADS
Royal Navy:
Defence Blacks:
Kyle Mason
Karl Furey
Harry Collins
Cam Wright
John Court
Angus White
John Lamsin
Charlie Togia
Edd Pascoe
Sonny Woodmass
Ben Priddey (C)
Jimmy Berghan
Jarrad Hayler
Sergio Hollis
Dave Fairbrother
Ben Achillies
Johnny Stephen
Hamish Pyne
Nathan Huntley
Ben Wyness
Ben Chambers
Tafa Tafa
Matt Tichias
Logan Vaughan (C)
Silvenusi Buinimasi
Logan Broughton
Greg Welling
Jared Deal
Jon Humphrey
Glen Ballam
Replacements:
Replacements:
Tom Blackburn
Sam Prosser
Josh Terry
Nathaniel Cooper
Ian Cooper
Danny Wanoa
Seta Raumakita
John Bailey
Ben Fox
Rawiri Broughton
Richard Cadywould
Barney Te Kani
Darren Bamford
Matthew Abraham
Tom Davies
Ben Gunn
Referee:
Scott Galbraith (RAFRURS)
Assistant Referees:
Mike Priestley (RAFRURS) Paul Mente (South Africa)

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