JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
The Lion’s Roar
THE YEAR BOOK OF THE ROYAL TASMANIA REGIMENT
Inside The Lion’s Roar
4 From the Colonel Commandant
5 From the desk of the Commanding Officer
7 Wisdom from The RSM
8 A Short History Of The Regiment
10 Operations Team 2017
11 OC Alpha Company
12 Platoon Stories 1PL, A Coy
15 Burnie Urban Training Activity
16 Pozieries Club PMC round up
18 OC Bravo Company
20 Platoon Stories-4 PL, Bravo Company
21 Bravo Company Fitness Competition
22 Ray Ewell DCM Club
28 Darwin Exchange
30 Battalion Military Skills 2016 - CPL Price
31 9 BDE Military Skills 2017- CPL Sheehan
32 Royal Tasmania Regiment Association
34 Headstone Project
36 Regimental Collection
37 Recruiting
38 Exercise Broodseinde and Awards 2017
40 Thank you
From the Colonel Commandant
During my tenure as deployment opportunities for not only individuals but
Commanding Officer of increasingly for small teams are indicative of the truth
12/40 RTR (1997-2000), I in the saying that “change is constant”. In this, members
instigated the publishing of 12/40 RTR continue to rise to the challenge and
of an annual journal of the bring great credit to themselves and their Unit.
Battalion’s activities. The
purpose of the journal was I would like to take this opportunity to thank the
to serve as an appropriate outgoing Commanding Officer, LTCOL Alex Thomson
historic record of the Unit’s for both his professionalism and dedication as his
many achievements in a current tenure draws to a close. Alex epitomises the
period where training and commitment of many of the Unit’s members and
operational tempo was I wish him well in what I am confident will be an
steadily increasing. Some 17 impressive career.
years later, I’m delighted to see the resurgence of the
Lion’s Roar as a record of the capability that 12/40 RTR My final comments are that in my experience,
provides to the 9th Brigade, the 2nd Division and the successful service in 12/40 RTR and in the Reserve
Australian Army more broadly. generally requires a sustainable balance of lifestyle.
For many, this involves managing two parallel career
Pursuit of individual excellence in soldering is very paths: civilian employment or study and military
important, but excellence as a collective team is what service in an increasingly professionalised part-time
sets 12/40 RTR soldiers apart from their peers and service environment. The key enablers to fulfilling
2017 has been yet another year where Unit members service aspirations are qualification by rank and
have excelled in training, readiness and support to trade, readiness and availability to seize short notice
operations. opportunities, and support of family and peers. Easy to
say and harder to do, but if you can meet the challenge,
2017 has also been an important year so far as the you will have the privilege of an extremely fulfilling
Centenary of ANZAC is concerned. Soldiers of the career in the Regiment.
Battalion has been regular supporters of related
ceremonial activities such as the Headstone Project, Good soldering.
whereby the graves of Tasmanian World War I
military personnel, including those of the 12th and S.L.Smith, AM, CSC, RFD
40th Battalions, 1st AIF receive appropriate headstone Major General
recognition of their service and sacrifice. I congratulate Colonel Commandant
all members of the Battalion who give generously of The Royal Tasmania Regiment
their time in support of this important community
recognition.
The Regimental Association also continues in its work
to provide an avenue for past and serving members to
gather at various formal activities and social occasions,
and I thank the Association President, Mr Graham
Alomes and his committee for the important work they
do in that regard. It is indeed an honour to be their
Patron. I would also like to acknowledge the work on
my predecessor, Colonel Dennis Townsend, RFD who
served as Regimental Colonel for many years and has
now taken over the role of Secretary of the Regimental
Association.
There are as many challenges as there are
opportunities facing 12/40 RTR in the immediate
future – indeed I’d offer that its always been that way
since the raising of the Unit in 1987. Refinement of
Army’s Plan Beersheba and development of the role
of the Reserve Reinforcing Battle Group, revitalisation
and transformation of the Reserve under the current
2nd Division initiative, and increased operational
4 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
From the desk of the Commanding Officer
The last three years has been conflicts. The Battalions support of the Tasmanian
an incredibly busy time for Headstone Project continues to be strongly supported
us all. We have completed with regular ceremonies to unveil new headstones of
our first rotation of the our veterans of World War One who lay in unmarked
Force Generation Cycle, and graves. We should remember that we are the custodians
delivered beyond what was of two sets of Colours, and as such we bear more Battle
asked of us. The unit has Honours than any other Regiment in the Australian
deployed contingents on to Army. This is a proud and hard-won history, from
Border Security operations, South Africa and the Boer War, to World War One, the
and individuals to Africa, the Second World War, and now on operations in Defence
Middle East, the Pacific and of Australia and regional peacekeeping and peace-
Europe on multiple occasions. support missions. The Regimental Historical Collection
has been revitalised, with much hard work by the
We truly live in uncertain times and future demands volunteers, to the point that our history is now open
remain unclear. We can, however, be without doubt to the public, and will soon be available as part of an
that this unit, and members of this unit, will be online catalogue.
required to contribute to operational tempo in the
years to come. The only way we can fulfil the expected The list above is by no means exhaustive. There have
demands upon us, is to ensure we train well, get rank been many more notable achievements, especially by
and trade qualified, and prepare each other for the those who delivered as part of BATTLEGROUP JACKA.
demands of the future. But this is simply an introduction to this year’s Lions
Roar, and I will leave it to the voices of the Battalion
The unit has undergone the stresses and strains of the members to write and record in the following pages the
Unit Establishment Review and in 2018 will start to details of our recent activities.
work under the new unit structure, heavy on Infantry
positions, but now supported by external logistic It has been with a great sense of honour and keen
support. The restructuring sees us also relocating the responsibility that I have served as Commanding
Headquarters to Anglesea Barracks where it will take Officer of the 12th/40th Battalion, the Royal Tasmania
on a higher profile and expand our influence, plus free Regiment. This unit has an enviable history and
up space for B Company to move to Derwent Barracks. reputation stretching from the earliest days of this State
The move of B Company from Warrane will give far through to the present where so many of our members
better access to the WTSS range simulator and a new have served on operational deployments. I am focussed
Close Training Area than was previously available. on the Battalion delivering the best trained personnel
that we can, so that when we are called to serve on
The training facilities have been improved with not operations regardless of the location, task or threat,
only the new P-WTSS system, but already an agreed we have the skills along with the mental and physical
expansion to the M-WTSS, plus proposals endorsed robustness to serve with discipline and professionalism.
for a second portable system in the north of the state. In the end we each add to that tradition of Royal
New uniforms, load carrying equipment, and weapons Tasmania Regiment pride and service.
systems are in the pipeline, and will, with time, arrive
at our store. I wish all the members, and their families, a peaceful
and happy 2018. A year in which we will continue to
We’ve had a busy few years with personnel serve and train in order to prepare for operations.
achievements too. From individuals recognised by We will continue to commemorate the Centenary
the Chief of Army with CPL Chadwick receiving the of ANZAC, and reflect on those who took up the
Jonathan Church Award, LT Calderwood the Prince challenges that fell to them. To that end I look forward
of Wales Award, and many other recognitions, to the to more progress and challenging training that will
Battalion Team winning the Brigade Military Skills continue the traditions set by those who served before
Competition. We’ve sent our top soldiers and junior us in our nation’s interests.
leaders to Canberra and Darwin to be exposed to
the latest equipment, see our history, and meet key Pro aris et focis
personnel running operations.
Alex Thomson
Ceremonially we have recognised and honoured our Lieutenant Colonel
history in parades to mark the centenary of the major Commanding Officer
events of World War One, the 75Th anniversary of the 12th/40th Battalion,
fall of Koepang and the capture of the 2/40th Battalion, The Royal Tasmania Regiment.
and conducted support to memorial events of other
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 5
6 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
Wisdom from The RSM
It is coming toward the June saw six high achieving members of 12/40 RTR
end of 2017 and what a rewarded with an exchange with 1 Brigade in Darwin.
rollercoaster of a year it has The members were lucky enough to embed with 5th
been. The members of the Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (5 RAR) and the
12th/ 40th Battalion Royal Marine Rotational Force Darwin (MRF-D). For the
Tasmania Regiment (12/40 men and women back in Tasmania we were privileged
RTR) should be very proud enough to host 5 RAR and MRF-D members in Hobart
of what they have achieved and Youngtown. This exchange strengthened the ties
during a very busy and with the Brigade we are attached to for Battle Group
challenging year. Jacka. It was an amazing experience for all involved and
we look forward to participating in a similar activity
2017 started off with a bang next year.
with the Battalion winning
the 9 Brigade Military skills competition in February, The rest of the year has seen numerous ceremonial
then backing up In March to put in a very good activities, including ANZAC Day, the headstone
effort in the Divisional Military skills competition. project, dedications in Cygnet and Campbell Town,
Unfortunately we did not win, however the soldiers Remembrance Day as well as training weekends.
involved could hold their heads high with the effort Training weekends involved live fire activities ranging
and commitment they put in. from small arms to high explosive including grenades
and the 84mm Carl Gustaf. We were also lucky enough
At the beginning of April the Commanding Officer to have the numerous VIP’s visit our Island including
and I were privileged to be invited to the medal parade Chief of Army Lieutenant General Angus Campbell,
of TSE 83 members and were able to congratulate Commander 2nd Division (2 DIV) Major General
all involved, especially the large contingent of 12/40 Stephen Porter and Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM)
RTR members, who from all accounts provided 2 DIV WO1 Leanne Iseppi as well as our Brigade
an invaluable contribution to Australia’s border Commander Brigadier Michael Burgess and the
protection capability. 12/40 RTR members averaged Brigade RSM WO1 Jason Burford.
approximately 60 days out at sea and were part of one
of Australia’s largest ever drug seizures accounting In conclusion I would like to congratulate and farewell
themselves to a very high standard and ensuring all that the members of the Battalion leaving this year, all
followed them had big boots to fill. have put in so much effort and time to make all of the
activities that we sometimes take for granted a success.
Just before Easter and a well-earned break, 12/40 RTR I would also like to farewell the Commanding Officer
took the lead on recruiting at the V8 Supercars and whom after three years in Command is being posted
did a sterling job, the soldiers who took part worked to 2 DIV HQ. On behalf of the Battalion we say Thank
hard to portray 12/40 RTR in a better light than other you and good luck. To everyone whom is staying I ask
Tasmanian units, ensuring members of the public that you all continue with your great work, continue
whom put in expressions of interest did so to join to support training and do your best to be fully rank
12/40 RTR. and trade qualified and strive for promotion. I feel
very privileged and humbled to be a part of this
After Easter TSE85 deployed although only a very small organisation and again I would like to thank you all and
contingent of 5 members from 12/40 RTR their efforts look forward to working with everyone next year.
were greatly appreciated and again held themselves at a
very high standard throughout their deployment. Stephen Logan
Warrant Officer Class One
In May we conducted our first Combat Shooting Regimental Sergeant Major
course for the year, which is part of the new shooting 12th/40th Battalion,
continuum for Army. All involved were very impressed The Royal Tasmania Regiment.
with the instruction and how much the new teaching
techniques improved their shooting abilities; even the
OPSO was able to hit the target at the end of the course.
Also in May we deployed a section plus to Boars Sprint
to exercise with 7 RAR again all members returned with
excellent reports of note was SGT Godman who was in
the position of acting Company Sergeant Major.
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 7
A Short History Of The Regiment
RAISING AND EARLY DISTINCTIONS Following Federation the titles of the battalions
were changed; in the south to the Derwent Infantry
History Regiment (Derwent Regiment), in the north to the 12th
Infantry Regiment (Launceston Regiment) and in the
The Royal Tasmania Regiment was formed in 1960 as North-West to the Tasmanian Rangers.
part of the reforms that saw the old Citizens Military
Forces reorganied along pentropic lines. Further During World War 1 the 12th and 40th Battalions
the Citizens Military Forces were reorganized to were raised as part of the Australian Imperial Force
conventional organizations and then re-titled to what and these units went on to serve with considerable
is now known as the Army Reserve. As part of this distinction overseas. Their sacrifice earned the two
1960’s reform, Tasmania’s two single battalion infantry Battalions three Theatre Honours and 25 Battle
regiments were amalgamated, to form the Royal Honours, which continue to be held by the Regiment
Tasmania Regiment. These two parent regiments were: to this day. After the war the two Battalions were
demobilised and reformed as Militia units.
• 12th Infantry Battalion (The Launceston Regiment)
• 40th Infantry Battalion (The Derwent Regiment) At the outbreak of World War II the 2nd Australian
Imperial Force was formed and as part of this the
The two battalions were reduced to companies within a 2/12th and 2/40th Battalions were raised (distinct
single battalion named as the Tasmania Regiment. The from the militia battalions that had the same numerial
regiment was given its royal title the same year. designation). These battalions were also deployed for
overseas service, and during the course of the war they
In 1972, the RTR expanded to two battalions, when both earned two Theatre Honours, a Campaign Honour and
the 12th and 40th were reformed. However, this lasted 13 Battle Honours. Of note, the 2/12th Battalion fought
only until 1975, when it was again reduced, this time to during the Defence of Tobruk, and later at Milne Bay.
two independent rifle companies (IRC), 12th IRC and The 2/40th Battalion gave also distinguished service,
40th IRC. Then, on 13th December 1987, the regiment serving in Timor as part of the ill-fated Sparrow Force
was expanded to a full battalion, again through the where, surrounded and outnumbered, they mounted
amalgamation of the two independent rifle companies, a spirited defence against the Japanese but were
and including 12 Field Squadron Royal Australian ultimately forced to surrender in February 1942.
Engineers, 146 Signal Squadron and 6 Intelligence Unit,
the 12th/40th Battalion. During World War II, the militia battalions formed
at the end of the World War I from units of the
Lineage original AIF were maintained as separate units from
the battalions raised as part of the 2nd AIF. The
The Regiment’s lineage can be traced back to 1878 12th/50th Battalion was the direct descendant of
when the Tasmanian Volunteer Rifle Regiment was the 12th Battalion, AIF, and during the war it served
formed in Tasmania with four companies in Hobart as part of York Force and on garrison duties in the
and two in Launceston. The current Regiment has Northern Territory. At the same time, the 40th
evolved since that time, albeit under a variety of titles Battalion also served in Darwin. In May 1945 the
and organisations. The Tasmanian Rifle Regiment of 12th/50th Battalion was disbanded and on 31 May
Southern Tasmania, the Launceston Rifle Regiment of 1945, the 12th amalgamated with the 40th Battalion
Northern Tasmania and an Auxiliary Force (Enrolled and became the 12th/40th Battalion. This Battalion
Pensioner Force) were combined as the three battalions formed the bulk of Timor Force that accepted the
of the Tasmania Volunteer Rifle Regiment In 1897. surrender of the Japanese forces from the commander
These were: 1st Battalion, Tasmania Infantry Regiment of the 48th Japanese Division at Koepang on 3 October
which was formed in the south, the 2nd Battalion 1945. In March 1946, it returned to Australia and was
Tasmania Infantry Regiment which was formed in subsequently disbanded on 29 May 1946.
the north and the 3rd Battalion Tasmania Infantry
Regiment which was formed in the north-west. On 1 July 1948 the 12th/40th Battalion was raised again
In 1899 the first contingent of Tasmanians departed as part of the Citizen Military Forces. On 30 June 1951
for the Second boar War. During this conflict, two this Battalion was separated and became the 1st and
men of the 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen had the 2nd Battalions, The Tasmania Regiment. On the 1 July
distinction of earning the first Victoria Crosses (VC) 1960, The Tasmania Regiment was granted the Royal
to be awarded to Australian infantrymen. For this prefix and became The Royal Tasmania Regiment.
campaign and the contingents that followed afterwards,
the Regiment holds the Battle Honours of ‘South Africa
1899–1902’ and ‘1900–1902’.
8 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 9
Operations Team 2017
Well another year has come to an end for the 12/40 In conclusion the year of 2017 OPS has been an
RTR “OPERATIONS LION” of 2017 and as they say you exciting and eventful year that has not necessarily come
can take the lion out of the fight but you can’t take the to an end but more so slowed down. The changing of
fight out of the lion. Undeniably the Operations lion the guard will slowly occur with the departure of the
did roar indeed in 2017. old, being CPL Lee to new employment in the
civilian abyss.
The Lion team or “A team” as some have echoed met
and exceeded what some would call significant tasks The OPSWO will be attending to the needs of 1 SIG
throughout the year and some unexpected roles, REG in Queensland as there TRG WO. The OPSO will
however as a lion does no roar was too tough. be back to Regional Force Surveillance Operations
as 2IC of the Pilbara Regiment. The OPS SGT will be
The appetite was immense for the almost mythical conducting stay behind role in IOT hold ground for the
like creature by the end of the year that involved re-formation of the new OPS Team.
normal run of the mil stuff like Planning, Preparation,
Establishment and C3 for some main events that were
accomplished:
- Battalion ARA Briefings Derwent Barracks -Jan Ex Bullecourt - TAC HQ OPS CP
- Battalion Force Preservation Derwent Barracks– Feb Ex Bullecourt - TAC HQ OPS CP
- Battalion P-WTTs Course Derwent Barracks – Feb
- Introduction of regular calendar shoots for Tasmania
- All AIRN P-WTTS Derwent Barracks - Feb
- Ex Balikpapan Buckland – Feb
- Ex Bullecourt Buckland – Mar
- TSE 83 - Mar
- Ex Monash 2 Buckland – Mar
- TSE 85 - Apr
- Combat Shooting Buckland - May
- Ex Egypt 2 Stoney Head - Apr just not executed
- Ex Egypt 3 Buckland – Jun
- Regimental Audit Board RTF – Aug
- Ex Menin Road Stoney Head – Aug
- Ex Egypt 1 Stoney Head – Sep
- BDE TRG CAMP Stoney Head – Oct
- Ex Broodseinde Derwent Barracks – Nov
Anyway so What? One could say, and you wouldn’t be
wrong. The reality is that the Operations team couldn’t
have accomplished what it did without everyone
else’s input from the wider battalion and outside
organisations and sources. So with many thanks to
those that were involved with the Operations team
in 2017 as it was really appreciated. Now for those
wandering what the team looks like.
10 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
OC Alpha Company
As another year draws to an end it is time to reflect on SGT Griffiths out at Burnie has been great, and his
the year that was in Alpha Company, and the people Platoon has been standout, I thoroughly enjoyed
who make up the best company in Tasmania. observing his shooting on LF9 on the Combat Shooting
Course.
As a testament to the hardworking attitude of the
members of A Coy, we have deployed six personnel CAPT Fountain, in his first year as a freshly minted
on OP RESOLUTE , seven on Ex BOARS SPRINT with Battle Captain was great, and I wish him the best as he
7 RAR and 12 soldiers to Malaysia on Rifle Company transfers to HQ.
Butterworth, rotation 120 and have put more than 25 Staff Sergeant Lindsay Devlin is ever reliable, and it has
personnel through courses this year. been great seeing him getting out and about after his
first bionic joint replacement.
These are significant contributions of individual
commitment, and displays an operational capability Keeping the place running smoothly at Youngtown has
that supports the relevance of the Army Reserves in been CPL Amy Green and CPL Sharon Gunton, we
Northern Tasmania. recognise the hard work you do and the diligence.
Alpha Company is made up of some great characters Not least are the soldiers of Alpha Company, who
with whom I have taken great pleasure in working with. have maintained a fantastic attitude and have been a
pleasure to work with. Thank you for a great year.
In particular I’d like to thank WO2 Craig ‘Rattler’
Cowburn, who has been an excellent CSM and MAJ Steven Silver
TRGWO, and has provided excellent leadership to A OC, Alpha Company
Coy and more than a few laughs.
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 11
Platoon Stories 1PL, A Coy
This year has been full of training, personal, and Some members of Alpha Company, 12/40 RTR also
professional development opportunities across the recently began the pre-deployment concentration
Battalion. As 9 Brigade has rotated from ‘Ready’ training for Rifle Company Butterworth (RCB) 120, in
to ‘Reset’ within the force generation cycle, the Adelaide. This three month will provide a chance for
soldiers of A Coy have continued striving for soldiers to learn the fundamentals of Jungle Warfare
personal and professional growth by; participating Training in the jungles of Malaysia. There will be the
in training exercises with 7 RAR on Ex Boar’s Sprint, opportunity to gain weapons qualifications, complete
supporting other units on a number of promotion components of promotion courses, and the ability to
courses, working with DFR for recruiting events, and experience foreign cultures. It is expected this rotation
conducting various ceremonial tasks across Tasmania. may also engage with foreign military personnel from
The activities listed provide an insight to some of the Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. This training will
activities that enhance the capabilities of our members enhance the capabilities of the members of Alpha
and provide our members with experiences, positive or Company, and will provide soldiers with experiences
negative, that can be brought back to the Battalion and that they can bring back to Australia and to their
shape our future training. civilian employment. The Alpha Company personnel
deploying on RCB 120 are: LT W Richman, WO2 C
In addition to the activities listed above, A Coy Cowburn, SGT J Groves, CPL J Hayes, LCPL S Dawson,
personnel from Youngtown Depot have deployed on PTE N Bowman, PTE T Corcoran, PTE L Cox, PTE J
OP Resolute with Transit Security Element 83 and 85. Graham, PTE T Hogan, PTE M Lane, and PTE K Weller.
This deployment is the ADF’s contribution to the effort
of protecting Australia’s borders and offshore maritime This year has provided the perfect opportunity for the
interests. Deployments such as this, demonstrates how soldiers of A Coy to consolidate their skills and develop
Army Reservists are providing a capability across the as professional soldiers in a realistic, challenging and
wider Defence Force. It provided these personnel with safe environment. There have been opportunities for
exposure to the interoperability of the ADF, as well as soldiers to seek extra qualifications and to represent the
the opportunity to gain valuable experience working Battalion across the country. Next year is a new chapter,
with RAN personnel and equipment. and for the members of A Coy it will bring more
situations for growth and development as individuals
Personnel who deployed on TSE 83 & 85 are: and as a team. As the Brigade will prepare to transition
into the ‘Readying’ phase, A Coy will continue to
- TSE 83: PTE Quinney, PTE Webster, PTE Harcourt, provide its critical capability for the ADF.
- PTE Barber
- TSE 85: CPL Maynard PTE Veltkamp PTE Bowman LT William Richman
1 Platoon, Alpha Company
12/40 The Royal Tasmania Regiment
As always, life in our training platoon has been hectic we have 1 soldier who will complete his recruit course
but rewarding as we work hard to train and prepare in February 2018.
new soldiers for their recruit course and corps specific As well as regular Tuesday night training, including
IET training. There are many who would argue (the navigation, drill, weapons and other basic soldier skills
author included) that the training platoons are the most training, members of 2PL have had the opportunity to
important platoons in the Battalion as this is where attend a number of training weekends and the October
core skills are first taught, where (mostly) young minds Courses Camp where they supported the rest of the
are moulded into the ways of the army and where quite unit and also participated in much of the training
possibly the next RSM-A learns their first right and left undertaken by fully qualified soldiers.
turns!
Next year, we will continue to work towards fully
We have had a steady stream of new enlistments in 2PL qualifying the soldiers we currently have, under a
over the course of the year. Our new enlistments come modified structure but hand over the training of new
from a range of backgrounds and professions including enlistments to the capable hands of AUR.
a dairy farmer, policeman and physiotherapist.
LCpl Murray
This year we have fully qualified 8 soldiers, have 4 with 2 Platoon
us who have completed their recruit course and will A Coy, 12/40 RTR
now advance to their IET’s early next year. In addition,
12 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 13
14 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
Burnie Urban Training Activity
In September and October, Burnie Platoon took over Once firm, Bravo team then linked up with Alpha
the Tasmanian Fire Service burn houses on Three Team. From there we moved to clear BURNT WATER
Mile Line Rd, to conduct urban scenarios utilising the to complete the mission and remove any threats.
facilities. The purpose of the activity was to enhance
the platoon’s Urban tactics and techniques in a local Fire Teams and HVT’s then moved back to FUP, where
terrorist-threat quick response scenario. HVT’s were back loaded to TasPol for processing. 11C
then completed check on members, equipment and
Scenario: 12/40 RTR A Coy (Burnie) had been tasked then loaded into the vehicles and move back to the
to insert via vehicle and clear an urban complex from a Depot.
low level terrorist cell operating in the Three Mile Line
Road area. In conclusion the training conducted and feedback
given by the members of Burnie was exceptional,
11C moved from the Burnie depot, travelling 13 Personnel utilised the Soldiers Combat ensemble,
minutes along specified route to the outer cordon of to add realism to the training. In the process of this
target buildings located at the Tasmanian Fire Service training activity the members from the unit honed
Depot. 11C then passed through parked vehicles near their skills in urban operations, complex warfighting
the FUP, Fire Teams then debussed and move to FUP and operating in close quarters combat. Some junior
for final staging ready for assault. members gained their final 343-3 requirements
11C then move from FUP towards target building RED Thanks to Sgt Griffiths, LCpl Fenton and LCpl
HOOK, at which point the two teams split with Alpha Robinson for coordinating this interesting and realistic
Brick stacking up on the bottom floor front door and training activity.
Bravo Brick moving around the rear of the building,
up the external staircase and stacking up on the door We are looking forward for next year!
leading into the top floor. Teams did not Breach
floors until synchronised by comms. No teams moved PTE Matthew Richardson
between floors internally until target building is clear. A Coy (Burnie), 12/40RTR
11C Bravo then posted a Gunner and Grenadier on the
rooftop overlooking Target Building BURNT WATER.
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 15
Pozieries Club PMC round up
2017 has been another fantastic year for the Pozieres real plane to Melbourne for the third annual Pozieres
club. Morale within Alpha Company and the Melbourne Trip. In total eight current members and
Youngtown training depot has remaining high due three former members met in Melbourne for the
in large respect to the efforts and dedication of the weekend with one coming from as far as Canberra.
committee and members of the Pozieres club. 2017 Trip observed a one sided Essendon vs St Kilda game at
has seen a number of function held through the year Etihad Stadium and included a visit to Crown Casino,
as follows: Laser tag, ten pin bowling, Luna Park and a spot of
shopping. A small number of alcoholic beverages were
February – Launceston Cup also consumed.
After missing a couple of years, the Pozieres club The weekend as usual was a fantastic opportunity
returned to the Launceston Cup with a Ledger site. for members to have an action packed but relaxing
Mixing it with Launceston and Tasmania’s finest, weekend away from family commitments or civilian
members dressed up and looked sharp at this high class work / study obligations. Planning for the 2018
event. A number of ex-members also joined current Melbourne Trip has already begun.
members as they tried to pick the winning horse.
August – Poz Vegas
April – ANZAC day
Following the reconnaissance conducted at Crown
The Pozieres club opened to allow current and ex- Casino, the Pozieres club was turned into a casino for
defence members a suitable place to honour and the annual Poz Vegas. A stalwart on the Pozieres social
remember the ultimate sacrifice made by our comrades calendar, the evening was another fantastic night with
in past and current conflicts and wars. A couple of over 50 members and their guests in attendance. Unlike
quiet drinks were had as we remember those that have other casinos, Poz dollars were valueless and could not
passed recently and long ago. be redeemed for cash. Also unlike other casinos, the
odds were always in the gamblers favour. At the end of
June – Mystery international flight night evening a hectic auction was held with various pieces of
junk being auctioned off.
In June, the Pozieres club was turned into Pozieres
International Airport and members boarded Pozieres September – AFL Grand final
airlines (Pozair) maiden mystery international flight,
flight number TX666. Some members splashed out Members rallied at the Pozieres club to watch the
and bought first class tickets, as a result they received Richmond Tigers win their first premiership in living
first class service all night. Many others were cheap and memory. The day was filled with many activities
purchased budget airline economy class tickets and including a kicking competition, handball competition
were crammed in as expected on a budget flight. and a half time sprint. The overall winner of all
Deputy PMC, Corporal Sharon Gunton made an activities was the partner of CPL D. Hendrikson, Jodie.
excellent flight attendant even though she made the 2018 looks to be another fantastic year with plans
mistake of inflating her life jacket before exiting the already in place for a number of functions in 2018
aircraft. including:
It turned out that flight went to five different - Launceston Cup ledger site.
destinations, thus being, Bali, Tokyo, Rome, New York - R esurrection of the 12/40 Ashes - Alpha Company
and Mexico before returning home to Youngtown.
Food and drink native to each destination were served (The Pozieres) Vs Bravo Company (The Ray Ewell
on arrival at each destination. Club) 20-20 cricket match.
- ANZAC Day
The night was a fantastic and special thank you must be - P lanning has also begun for the Pozieres club to hold
made to Corporal Ritchie Vincent for his assistance on a formal dining in night in mid 2018.
the night and the donation of props for the evening.
CPL Josh Hayes
July – Melbourne trip PMC, Poziers Club
Following the Mystery International Flight, a number
of members bought real airline tickets and flew on a
16 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 17
OC Bravo Company
B Company started the year running with both the
Brigade Military Skills competition and Exercise
Balikpapan. The previous year’s Battalion Champion
Section from B Company led by CPL Sheehan and
LCPL Price headed to the mainland to take out the 9
Brigade Military Skills competition; winning handily
and setting up the opportunity to take out the 2
Division Military Skills competition. Unfortunately, a
last minute change of dates saw some members unable
to attend and the section subsequently handicapped
by interlopers from interstate. Nevertheless, the men
from B Company performed valiantly and represented
the Battalion and Brigade with distinction. The
members that represented the Company across the
various competitions included PTE Jenkins, PTE Levi-
Stratmeier, PTE Hine, PTE Owen, PTE Hearn, PTE
Johnston with the reserves including PTE Slatyer, PTE
Jackson and PTE Ross.
Exercise Balikpapan was the first exercise of the year Special mention must go to those members departing
and led by B Company staff at Buckland. Thanks during or at the end of 2017. Both PTE Hine and CPL
goes to CAPT Lambert and LT Calderwood for their Wells departed earlier in the year for employment
efforts in planning and organising the weekend and with the Regular Army and will both make valuable
of particular note was their ‘village’ complete with contributions in their chosen fields. LT Calderwood has
volleyball court, minaret and a questionable call been with the Company for several years and proven
to prayer. The second B Company led weekend himself to be a highly proficient Platoon Commander
was Exercise Menin Road in August which saw an and will post to AUR next year on promotion.
introduction to motorised operations, albeit out of
Unimogs. MAJ Fleming, SGT Griffiths and the newly CPL Sheehan will be departing due to civilian work
arrived CSM, WO2 Andersen provided valuable subject commitments and his professionalism and experience
matter expertise, passing on many valuable lessons will be missed. LCPL Emmett also discharged
and principles that apply beyond the limitations of the following a long and committed career within B
platform. Amongst the various other exercises held Company. PTE Slatyer has posted to AUR as an Officer
during the year by A Coy and BHQ, the highlight was Cadet and we look forward to his return in the coming
undoubtedly the combat shooting course held in late years as a Platoon Commander. Finally, the ARA staff
October; described by all attending as one of the best of WO2 Robinson and SGT Molloy will be posting
courses in the Army. at the end of the year. Both have served tirelessly as
the Training Warrant Officer and Q SGT respectively
Throughout the year B Company has provided and their can-do attitudes will be missed with WO2
significant numbers for deployment across both Transit Robinson posting to Western Australia and SGT Molloy
Security Element Rotations (TSE) and Rifle Company departing for our neighbours at 2 FSB.
Butterworth (RCB). In late March LT Johnson, LCPL
Boron, LCPL Michalowski, LCPL (PTE) Byrd, LCPL In January this year I marched into B Company
(PTE) Wynn, PTE Abdullah, PTE Austin, PTE Undy and impressed with the enthusiasm and professionalism of
PTE Prensky returned home from TSE83 following a the soldiers within the Company. Over the following
diverse and interesting deployment working closely twelve months I have continued to be impressed
with the RAN. PTE Levi-Stratemeier then deployed as with their dedication, with 2018 looking to be a great
an individual round out on TSE84. Finally, the latter year for the Company. With a full complement of
half of the year saw the deployment of LT Ingram, SNCOs and Officers in addition to the increasing
CPL Hutch, the newly promoted LCPL Wynn, PTE numbers permitting the manning of a second platoon,
Prensky, PTE Mani, PTE Siggers, PTE Rogers, PTE B Company will look to go onto greater things in the
Hodge, PTE Fox-Hughes to Malaysia for Rife Company coming year.
Butterworth. Following some time in Australia doing
pre deployment training, the members will depart in Maj Ian McCausland
late November for what will be an invaluable training OC Bravo Company
experience.
18 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 19
Platoon Stories-4 PL, Bravo Company
On 1 July 2017, 9 Brigade transitioned from the resilience. Unlucky for the participants, Chief Jim
Ready Phase of Army’s Plan Beersheba to the Reset ‘Git Gud’ Fagg and the dreaded ‘6 Platoon Tribe’ had
Phase, bringing with it reduced tempo and resource prepared a number of logical puzzles and fitness
allocation. However, this did not stop members of B challenges designed to create confusion and maximise
Coy, 12/40 RTR from building on their foundational teamwork.
warfighting skills in challenging and rewarding training.
To maintain the momentum after Ex HAMEL 16, B Coy However, the Sections efforts were in vain and soon
conducted several training iterations of foundational they were conducting a CASEVAC for the heaviest
warfighting in an urban environment that built on member under the direction of the local Doctor (of
individual soldier, team and section skills. Chemistry) Tom Nicholls.
Training began with an urban training package focused The conduct of Ex Sulla II enhanced 12/40 RTR
on developing individual combat shooting techniques, capabilities in a number of regards:
fire-team and section level TTPs supported by SMES
from BHQ and external to the unit. The urban training 1. It utilises the training opportunities at Warrane
package culminated with Ex Sulla I which put the newly Depot to their maximum potential. Without the
acquired skills to the test during a Platoon Cordon and space and topography required to conduct section or
Search at the Warrane Depot. platoon activities, Tuesday night is often limited to
individual, brick or section-level training. However,
Bravo Company’s urban warfighting skills were further the use of office/lecture/social buildings provides the
supplemented through the training opportunities opportunity to conduct section-level urban training
presented by the cancellation of Ex Egypt II in May in a realistic environment.
2017. B Coy conducted alternative training in the
form of a Full Mission Profile ran by CPL Langley and 2. Ex Sulla I and II demonstrated that training on a
urban training delivered by ADJT 12/40 RTR, Capt. Tuesday night parade, and specifically, the use of
Harling and Capt. Lambert who delivered instruction blank ammunition and pyrotechnics, can be as
on combat shooting techniques, building entry and relevant, challenging and contemporary as their
clearances and, urban TTPS. weekend counterparts.
Building on the previous training activities, Bravo 3. T he capability to conduct complex, challenging
Company conducted Ex Sulla II in July 2017. Ex Sulla and rewarding training on Tuesday nights
II was a Full Mission Profile style activity designed provides members who are unable to commit to
to replicate an operational task and build on several regular weekends with the opportunity to build
foundational warfighting skills under duress and time on their professional mastery, learn and develop
constraints. foundational skills and practice operating in a tactical
environment.
Ex Sulla II consisted of three activities:
LT Patrick Ingram
1. Section building clearance and QDE 4 Platoon, Bravo Company
2. Key Leadership Engagement 12/40 The Royal Tasmania Regiment
3. CASEVAC/Stretcher Carry
The building clearance was the Main Effort for Ex
Sulla II and contained more than met the eye. Section
Commanders were provided with aerial photography,
blank ammunition, NFE and tasked with a clear
mission. Awaiting them were Figure 11 representing
hostile combatants, IEDs and booby-traps using F2
Battlefield Sim Grenades and, a swathe of PT gear
wearing civilians led by the cunning, well-armed and
seemingly invincible Dob ‘I’m not dead yet’ Hine.
Sections were then tasked to gain the trust of a local
tribal chief by proving their physical and intellectual
20 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
Bravo Company Fitness Competition
Physical fitness is a vital component of a soldier’s an injured section member all the easier. Having the
readiness for combat and training. Being physically requisite upper body strength to bench press your
fit and strong will allow a solider to overcome any bodyweight or more will make carrying something like
obstacles that present themselves in the field. While the MAG58 feel like nothing.
the Army Basic Fitness Test (BFA) is a good guide for
a soldier’s ability to undergo training, it is only the To aid in the development of these skills, lifting
minimum standard needed to participate in training. technique sessions have been run on each of the
Anything over and above this will have a positive main lifts to let soldiers practice and develop the
impact on a soldier’s effectiveness. skills to lift weight safely. These sessions have allowed
more experienced lifters to teach some of the newer
With this in mind, the Combat Fitness Leaders (CFL) members better techniques and habits when it comes
in B Coy devised a series of challenges and tests to to lifting. These sessions have allowed multiple
help promote a fitness culture within the unit. A large untrained lifters to refine their technique to the point
proportion of this is a new unit PT test of cadence push where they are lifting more than their bodyweight for
ups and heaves, webbing run, swim and farmers carry. multiple lifts.
These are designed to build upon the requirements of
the BFA to ensure that all soldiers are prepared for any While the foundational strength movements are the
challenges they may face in the field environment. basis of the competition there is also endurance based
tests such as maximum burpees in 5 mins, max push-
Aside from the Unit PT test a series of strength ups and longest prone hold. These tests are much easier
training challenges have been implemented. These are for soldiers to complete without equipment and just
based around the 3 powerlifting movements; squat, need a CFL to be present or for the test to be filmed.
bench press and deadlift along with a strict overhead
or military press. The competition will encourage This means they can be undertaken as concurrent
soldiers to build strength in these four movements activity during downtime.
and eventually test their strength against their peers. With the introduction of these challenges and tests B
Being able to squat, press and pull in a safe and strong Coy will promote stronger and fitter soldiers who are
manner will have immense carry over to day to day better prepared for both deployment and exercises
tasks. Just imagine, being able to squat your own or while also fostering competition, pride and espirt de
even double your bodyweight will make a 30-40kg pack corps in the company and unit as a whole.
feel light in comparison. Being able to deadlift twice
your bodyweight will make picking up and carrying PTE Hearn
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 21
Ray Ewell DCM Club
The Ray Ewell DCM club has hosted a number of managed to get us 100 free paintballs each!). With
events throughout the year with the PMC CPL Josh teams divided evenly, we all had a lot of fun shooting
Sheehan and his committee doing a great job of each other but I’m not sure if the ‘civvies’ who played
keeping the events varied, engaging and most of all fun! with us would say the same as they may have copped
The year started off on a more sombre note with MAJ a few more rounds than they bargained for. For his
Garth Callender coming down to visit and participate efforts Byrdy ended up running the gauntlet along
in the Matthew Millhouse salute; an event to remember with LT Ingram; running 50 meters around a tree and
a member of the mess who was taken from us too early back while the boys lined up about 30m away and went
following a deployment to Iraq. Garth came into the rapid fire on our unarmed mates. While this was all in
‘booza’ the night before to have a few beers and talk good fun I’m pretty sure some of the guys got trigger
to us in an informal manner about the event that left happy with both Byrdy and LT Ingram having some
him terribly injured and would ultimately result in the impressive welts afterwards. A few beers after paintball
death of our good mate. He gave a great talk and then and we were on our way to the ‘booza’ for the main
let the boys ask a few questions of him. The feedback event. We’d organised teams before hand and Jenko
was great and everyone had a good time. The next put together some events such as iceless ice hockey,
day most of the boys did a pack march with Garth flat-ground tobogganing and a few more that no one
from Kingston beach to Long beach in Sandy Bay in knew about until they were sprung on us. The opening
memory of Matty and then proceeded to have a few ceremony went off without a hitch and we had a nice
more beers plus a Jack Daniels, just how Matty would little fire to keep the competitors warm on the chilly
have wanted it! Hobart night. This was by far one of the most fun
nights I’ve ever had at the ‘booza’.
We farewelled the PMC, Josh at the end of August,
losing him as he moves to Victoria for a Paramedic
job. This brought me into the picture as the new PMC.
I’d just like to say that having become a member of
the mess more than 12 years ago when I was 17 years
old, I have nothing but good memories of the place
and I’d encourage all new members of the Company
to get involved with the ‘Booza’. This place is the heart
and soul of the Company and it is here that lasting
friendships and great memories have been and will
continue to be made!
Thanks to everyone for the effort put in through the
year and I’ll see ya in the ‘booza’!
CPL Tom Nichols
Soon after, the next event was to celebrate the return
of a bunch of guys who had been away serving with
the Navy in the north of Australia as part of the Transit
Security Element. It was great to have these guys back
and have the company complete again. Members
had some good ‘war stories’ to tell with one of the
guys being involved in one of the biggest drug busts
Australia has seen in some time. So naturally, we
celebrated with a few beers, Jake Hearn brought the
now traditional Ellie shots along and to quote event
coordinator Matt Jenkins, “Excuses for non-attendance
will be accepted but ignored.” This ended up being a
great night!
This brings us to the biggest event of the year, the The boys all ready for some paintball action (civvies don’t know
‘Booza Winter Olympics’. To make the event suitably what they’re in for).
epic Gav Byrd organised some pre-party slaying at
the newly opened paintball field in Cambridge (even
22- THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 23
Bravo Company
24 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 25
26 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 27
Darwin Exchange
Six Australian Army Reserve members from the TSE 83 began in October 2016 and after meeting the
12th/40th Bn, Royal Tasmania Regiment conducted a Army contingent down in Hobart we departed for
reciprocal exchange with the 5th Battalion, the Royal HMAS Cerberus, the ‘Home of the Navy’. I was placed
Australia Regiment (5 RAR) and Marine Rotational as a team leader due to my recent JLC experience.
Force – Darwin (MRF-D). During this activity members Happy about this, I set about rounding up my team and
participated in weapon, vehicle and capability introducing myself. It turned out my brick was made
familiarisations, airsoft training, range practices, up of three Seamen and I, two of which were heavily
observation of live fire training as well as a range of bearded and twice my size. My first leadership role was
cultural activities. The exchange also saw a section off to an interesting start but I eventually found my
of 5 RAR and MRF-D soldiers visit to Tasmania, who feet and my team became quite close. We spent the
visited the Reserve Companies and received tours first month training for our role at HMAS Cerberus,
around Tasmania. The team was treated with tours learning 9mm, defensive tactics, Navy kit and how
of the Anglesea Barracks Museum, MONA and the to be a part of a boarding party. On completion, we
Antarctic Division. The exchange sought to reward the embarked on a C17 bound for Darwin. Arriving was a
efforts of high performing members, and to enhance shock to the system, especially for all the Tasmanians
the interoperability between Army Reserves and the where we began two weeks of acclimatisation and
Regular Army Battle Groups assessment. The TSE element was certified; force
assigned and split up across the Northern Australia.
Deployments and Promotion Course The deployment was busy for my team with two
LCPL Gavin Byrd major stints at sea, my favourite being when we force
assigned to an Armidale Class Patrol Boat. The crew
It’s been a big year for me. I’ve had the privilege of were extremely welcoming, showing us the ropes as we
serving on Operation Resolute as part of TSE 83, helped them through their ‘workups’, the assessment a
completed Subject 1 for Corporal ( JLC) and was new crew must go through before they can patrol. Our
promoted by the commander of 2nd Division on first route took us to some amazing areas of Australia
his recent visit to Tasmania. I’ve learnt a lot about you would never normally get to. One of my team
leadership over the last year and have developed a lot made the grievous mistake of offending the chef on
as a soldier. one of the first nights, a big no-no on small boats. This
resulted in him spending the rest of the patrol keeping
a low profile around meal times. The crew were
absolutely fantastic and made us feel like part of the
team. They taught us everything about their roles, from
doing watches, to operating RHIB’s and if we wanted to
learn something they were more than happy to teach us.
TSE afforded me a fantastic opportunity to experience
my first leadership position. While deployed I asked a
good friend of mine for advice regarding my team and
he simply said, “it’s your train set”. This resonated with
28 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
me as I have observed that as a junior leader you can
choose to handle situations many ways. Often there is
no right or wrong and it’s about you making a decision
and doing what you feel is best at the time, with the
information you have available, within the parameters
you have been set.
JLC is a fantastic course which promotes this way
of thinking; it develops leadership, confidence,
preparedness, and situational awareness, traits very
helpful in both the army and civilian worlds. I would
strongly encourage all soldiers attend JLC. The course
also develops your soldier skills, gives you far more
appreciation of what is going on around you and allows
you to see the rationale behind things.
JLC and the last twelve months have shown me the
following elements are very important to effective
leadership and effective soldiering:
• P reparation allows for confidence and the ability to
handle issues as they arise, adapt as necessary and
mould a plan on the fly.
• E ffective time management is an important skill
that can be easily learned and implemented. It’s also
important to prioritise tasks – you can always be
certain of two things with time; there is never enough
of it and it always runs out.
• D ecisiveness: Often as a leader it is better to make
a decision than not, even if you don’t have all the
information you need at the time. Indecisiveness is
not a helpful or desirable leadership trait.
• M anagement and Resolution: Two main points
from the last year have stuck with me; always resolve
problems at the lowest possible level and ‘bad news
doesn’t get better with time’.
I am heading on RCB rotation 120 this November
and am looking forward to putting my experience to
practice and learning much, much more. It’s a good
time to be in 12/40.
LCPL Gavin Byrd
4 Platoon, Bravo Company
12/40 The Royal Tasmania Regiment
Civilian Profession: Registered Nurse
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017- 29
Battalion Military Skills 2016 - CPL Price
an impeccably planned military skills competition that
was very SF based. It was an extremely intense 48 hours
which saw us get straight into cams for beep tests, rope
climbs, cadence push ups, swim tests followed by a high
wire confidence course dangling above the pool.
Maintaining the morale in record rainfalls whilst be
challenged both mentally and physically was extremely
hard but very rewarding to all involved. The usual
activities such as wiring tasks, stretcher carry and first
aid stands saw the weekend finish with a unique 50 to
300 metre falling plate shoot. Although we came 5th in
the comp, we gave it plenty.
November 2016 saw CPL Josh Sheehan and LCPL To all those involved it was a real top effort to get 12/40
(now CPL) David Price lead a section from Bravo COY RTR recognised at DIV level. I strongly urge all current
to victory in the 12/40 Battalion annual MILSKILLS serving members to really put in at MILSKILLS this
competition, This time held at BMTA. A relatively fast coming November so you can have the chance to
paced 40 hours saw the section participate in various experience what our section did.
military skills activities such as weapons handling,
trailer push, 100m shoot and night harbour drills just CPL Price
to name a few. 5 PL
B COY
CPL Sheehan’s section was then selected to represent
the Battalion in the Brigades MILSKILLS competition
held in Murray Bridge Military TRG area, FEB 2017.
Knowing that our major competition, 10/27 RSAR, was
training hard, we didn’t want to risk anything. With the
assistance of WO Grosvenor, Our section completed
lead up training weekends and WTSS Shoots during
the week.
With a farewell from the airport from RSM and CO,
The COMP Soon came around quick and saw us
participate in similar scenarios we had trained for
such as webbing run then live shoot, first aid, village
clearance, and wiring tasks just to name a few.
Throughout the whole EX, it was evident that it was a
very close COMP between 12/40 RTR and 10/27 RSAR.
With a final 0500 BFA then a 3km webbing run to the
range for another shoot, saw 12/40 get over the line and
win the 9 BDE MILSKILLS COMP 2017.
As a result of this win, we were then selected to
represent the BDE in the Divisions MILSKILLS
Competition. Unfortunately, because of doubling up on
dates, we lost most of our section to the Late Matthew
Millhouse Salute which saw CPL Sheehan and Price
take a composite team to Holsworthy for the COMP.
With three diggers from 12/40 and three from 10/27,
our section faced unprecedented record rainfalls and
30 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
9 BDE Military Skills 2017 - CPL Sheehan
For the representatives from 12/40 RTR, the 9 Brigade retention spring, meaning the firer had to shoot with
military skills competition began with a red eye flight one hand holding the magazine. But there were no
in a putrid collection of matching Hawaiian shirts. spares and we still had more shoots to do the next
Landing in Adelaide, moral was high and we stood day so we had to suck it up. The longest leg of the day
ready to receive our first set of orders. “Wait out boys, lead us to our next stand. Firstly, judging distance and
the bus will be here in like 3 hours, ahh go over there bearing. Knowing we were cooked from the 1.2km
and do nothing”. Lucky we were awake at 0400 to sit stomp our secco ordered us to rest, taking charge and
around and do nothing. We eventually made it to the getting the fastest and most accurate time with the
dusty paddock of Murray Bridge where ‘hurry up and laser range finder finally paying for itself. Secondly,
waits’ were rolling in hard and fast and eight hours later we had to set up a 14 x 14 tent without speaking and
we had our TBAS assembled, shot 23 rounds, and by with two members conjoined at the wrists. After 17
nightfall, the secco had disseminated his orders. After a minutes of high drag, low speed, the section sloth
speedy night patrol, we set up the harbor without NFE uncharacteristically carried the team and ticked the
and clearing patrols went out blindly bashing through boxes. The final stand of the day involved a general
the vegetation. knowledge test and AACFF. The boys crushed the test
except where they had to recite all the units in the
We awoke to the new day and moved to our first Brigade and missed the unit the DS happened to
mission – clear the FOB and set up a wiring task. After be from.
the gruelling 300m stomp, we rolled through the FOB
fast and clean, surprising the DS at how well-oiled The task for that night was to establish a section hide
we moved in a place we’d never been. Next was the on an almost bald feature. So we harboured up in the
wiring task. The DS pointed to all the stores, of which only clump of trees available and started night routine.
there wasn’t much, as one of the boys asked if there Some how the DS glossed over us talking and snoring
were star droppers. “What for?” was the reply. Using all night and we made it undetected. That morning we
our initiative, we ran into the FOB with the dropper were informed that scores were close and it would be
remover to steal some short nine foot droppers. a photo finish. At 0530, we moved to the start of the
Luckily one of the lads was tall enough to use the dolly BFA track. The team hit the stand like a red headed
to bash the stars in, we bounced the wire and time was step child, scoring well over the minimum push ups
called. “Refurbish the stores and leave the star droppers and leaving us optimistic for the run which unfolded
for the next team”. Now, this wasn’t a fair fight. We in an amusing fashion. We took off and tried to chase
spent 30 of the available 45 minutes getting them out down the one enemy runner who was faster than us,
of the ground, but in the spirit of competition, we did but he was also faster than his whole team, crossing the
the right thing. We hid the droppers, stole the only line, followed by us and then the rest of the opposition.
pliers and tangled the wire. After a quick ride and an As this was an all Corp event, it was a chance to
even quicker 50m stomp, we made it to the POW and demonstrate that “every solider is physically tough”.
village clearance stand where we found two POWs So the RSM let the POGs run a shorter distance. The
acting out of script but nothing a textbook GP boot culminating activity was a run a touch over a kilometre
to the back of the knee couldn’t fix. The medical and and a 100m moving target shoot. Shooting with
observation lane only needed three members so the two broken F88s was as expected but nothing a little
remainder sat under a tree and rested from the long crossfire couldn’t offset.
300m stomp. The observation lane was simple – patrol
100m and list what you saw. We began rattling off the Finishing the competition, we grabbed the trophy,
items, but the DS kept saying they weren’t on his list shook hands and set off to the airport for a well-earned
and wouldn’t tick them off. Now, I know what a map parmi.
looks like and I know what a pack looks. But hey, they
“weren’t on the list” so I did what any normal digger CPL Josh Sheehan
would do. I listed every item that had an NSN. Not 4 Platoon, Bravo Company
a smart move but it was a good laugh. The medical 12/40 The Royal Tasmania Regiment
stand was a breeze with our qualified paramedic and Civilian Profession: Paramedic
two CFAs taking charge. Next was a quick, up the guts
section attack. We hit it hard and fast and it was over
as soon as it started. Even though the DS for this stand
was one of our own, we later found out that he scored
our sisters from 10/27 RSAR one point higher.
Next up was LF4 with ‘brand new’ weapons for an
easy win. Except that one F88 didn’t have a magazine
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 31
Royal Tasmania Regiment Association
President’s Report
The Association has continued to have a steady Family & Friends of the 2/40th Battalion & Association members
increase in membership and commitment to on-going
events throughout the year with members attending attended with Lloyd Harding being the special
the 2/40th Bn AIF Memorial Service, Anzac Day attendee. This was followed by a Luncheon held at the
Services around the State, monthly Luncheons, regular Black Buffalo Hotel with Family and Friends of the
working bees associated with the Historical Regimental 40th Battalion with our members being in attendance.
Collection, Heritage Week, WWI headstone unveilings
at Cornelian Bay Cemetery, the hosting of a visit from ANZAC Day
His Excellency, Dr. Ramos-Horta and our annually
participation in 12/40 RTR Military Competition Skills. Our participation in the Hobart ANZAC Day Parade
has shown a gradual increase in participation over the
At our AGM on 3rd March 2017, the following members years with an exceptional roll up of members along
were elected to the Executive Committee, President with 12/40RTR personnel. We were joined by other
Graham Alomes, Secretary Dennis Townsend, servicemen and women. Our contingent was under
Treasurer Roger McGinness, Welfare Officer Norman command of Kieran Lennard with Ken Read carrying
Heatley with the Committee Members consisting of the Regimental banner.
John Hill, Ken Read, Tasman Evans, John Higgins, Private Mathew Sharp 12/40RTR and Graham Alomes
Kieran Lennard, Ralph Cooper and MAJ Jamie Cotton both laid a wreath on behalf of the antecedent
2IC 12/40RTR. battalions of the Regiment.
The success of the Association aligned through the HE Dr Ramos-Horta Visit
ideas, aims and continual support of the individual
members of the Committee; it would be remiss in At the Lindisfarne RSL, Saturday the 9th of September
not acknowledging the valued input of past and 2017, on behalf of the Convenor, Mr Eion Breen, the
present12/40RTR personnel. This is especially in Association’s President Graham Alomes, hosted a
regard to LTCOL Alex Thomson, 12/40RTR, having just Reception for His Excellency Dr. Ramos-Horta, in
completed his tenure as Commanding Officer, and MAJ appreciation of the WWII Service to Timor of our Life
Jamie Cotton, as 2IC, 12/40 RTR, who have regularly Members, Lloyd Harding, Robert (Bill) Russell both
attended our committee meetings thus greatly 2/40th Bn AIF and Bob Davis 12/40 Aust. Inf. Bn, with
forwarding and consolidating the various Unit’s interest each of them being presented with a traditional ‘tais’ by
into those of the Association, as well as having made HE Dr Ramos- Horta.
valuable contributions to the Regimental Historical
Collection. Guests included Dr Nitin Verma and wife Anu,
Major General Steve Smith, AM, CSC, RFD and Mrs
2/40th Battalion AIF Memorial Service Kate Smith, Lieutenant Colonel Alex Thomson CO
12/40 RTR, RSM WO1Stephen Logan12/40 RTR and
On the 26th February 2017 at the 2/40th Memorial, partner Michelle, Mr Terry Roe, JP, State President
Queens Domain, Hobart, a memorial service was RSL, Tasmania and Mrs Linda Roe, President of the
held to mark the 75th Anniversary of the Capitulation Lindisfarne RSL Mr Christopher Parker and Mr Kieran
of the 2/40th Bn AIF. An address relating to the Lennard, President of Hobart RSL, Mrs Susan Beard
heroic fighting of Sparrow Force on Timor against also representing the Family & Friends of the 2/40th
the Japanese, was delivered by the CO Alex Thomson Bn and the Association’s Committee Members.
12/40RTR. It was pleasing to see the event was well
L-R LTCOL Thomson, Lloyd Harding, & RSM Logan An address was delivered by MAJGEN Smith regarding
the continual linkages and friendships that were
formed between Timor-Leste, being exemplified by the
32 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
surviving veterans and the post 1999 UN involvement, RTR Luncheons
especially in regard to the Australian led INTERFET
force that stabilised the region, resulting in the Our monthly Luncheons held in the SGT’s Mess,
country’s transition to independence from Indonesia. Derwent Barracks, Dowsing Point, continued to be
LTCOL Alex Thomson related the involvement of the well patronised by members, families and friends. The
2/40th Battalion AIF ‘Sparrow Force’ noting that the Luncheons are a vehicle in fulfilling the aims of the
2/40th Bn remained around Koepang in the Dutch Association by promoting camaraderie with past and
zone on the south-west of Timor to defend the bay present members of the Regiment. The funds raised
and nearby Penfui airfield from the Japanese invasion assist our commitments to the Regimental Historical
and the fierce fighting that took place up to their Collection, our annual donation to Legacy, the
capitulation in February of 1942. Tasmanian Headstone Project, as well as our on-going
prizes and awards to 12/40 RTR personnel and support
His Excellency, Dr Ramos-Horta reflected on the to the Regimental Trust Fund.
continued friendships formed between Tasmania and
Timor-Leste, especially with the work of Dr Verma
in the training of ophthalmologists, through his
associations with UTas, the Royal Hobart Hospital and
the Hobart Eye Surgeons, which has greatly assisted his
people.
Presentations were made to His Excellency, on behalf
of 12/40RTR, being a framed 1937 photograph of the
40th Battalion Officers of Derwent Regiment, a slouch
hat and RTR lapel
badges.
Our November (Xmas) Luncheon was well attended,
giving us the opportunity of farewelling 12/40 RTR
personnel, with the presentation of Commendation
Certificates, in recognition of their Services to the
Association.
L-R LTCOL Thomson , G.Alomes, Kate & MAJGEN Smith, It also allowed an opportunity to bestow the
Sue Beard, H. E. Ramos-Horta , Anu & Dr Nitin Verma Association’s Life Membership to Mr Bob Davis, of
Ross, in the presence of his family and friends, as a
tribute of his Service for Australia with the 12th /40th
Australia Infantry Battalion, during WWII. Mr Davis
was deployed as part of ‘Timor Force’ in the historical
surrender of the Japanese on Timor in September
1945, having an excellent collection of documented
photographs.
Graham Alomes
President of the RTR Association
Sue Beard, H. E. Ramos-Horta , Anu & Dr Nitin Verma L-R COL Townsend, G. L-R. COL Townsend, LTCOL Mark Neich.
Alomes & Bob Davis as LTCOL Thomson & COL Paul Crew
a Life Member.
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 33
Headstone Project
Much progress has been made with The Headstone General Shaun Harding, Senior Army Officer,
Project during 2017 and we remain on task to have Tasmania. Mrs Gerrard who had been involved with
completed Cornelian Bay by Remembrance Day 2018, the Soldiers Memorial Avenue and researched the lives
the centenary of the signing of the armistice. of many of the soldiers who are memorialised there.
At our first ceremony we were honoured to be able The next service of dedication was conducted by
to welcome the Chief of Army Lieutenant General the ADF VET Students from Claremont College. On
Angus Campbell AO DSC as our guest speaker and this occasion 6 plaques were dedicated. This was the
to showcase the work of this important project and second year that they have organised and conducted
the personnel of the Royal Tasmanian Regiment. A the service. Harry Quick was asked to give the address.
crowd of around 100 people was in attendance for the The students were tasked with not only organising the
occasion. A guard of honour was provided by personnel service including the musicians but had to send out
of the Royal Tasmanian Regiment along with a soldier the invitations, organise a flag and flag pole, chairs and
to sentry at each of the fifteen graves that were unveiled marque as well a PA system. This year nothing was
that day. Our MC for this occasion was the newly left to chance with the students being ably assisted by
arrived Adjutant Captain Tavis Harling. Captain Tavis Harling and Sergeant Dave Marshall.
Lieutenant General Campbell, in company with With the onset of colder weather, it was decided to hold
Senator, the Honourable Eric Abetz and Ben, a an indoor service in September. Our guest speaker
student from Rose Bay High School unveiled the for this occasion was Dr Ross McMullin, historian and
plaque for Sergeant Albert Ernest Hack who served author from Victoria who has published two books on
with the 26th Battalion. Sergeant Hack was awarded Pompey Elliott. An image of each of the twenty plaques
the Distinguished Conduct Medal ‘for conspicuous was projected on the screen as the Roll of Honour was
gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack by read by Mr. Kieran Lennard, President of the Greater
our troops this N.C.O. displayed great gallantry in Hobart RSL Sub-branch. Ross McMullin spoke of the
organizing company Lewis gun crews under heavy fire. conditions experienced by many of Tasmania’s soldiers
He succeeded in getting his four teams up to the final during the three battles for Ypres in September-
objective, and personally placed each gun in position, November 1917, those that would have been endured by
and enabled a party to go forward and capture an the men whom we have honoured during this project.
enemy machine gun. He has rendered valuable services
on patrol, and has obtained most useful information.’ Our final service for the year was held on 6th
November when we were honoured to welcome Her
Excellency, Professor the Honourable Kate Warner AC,
Governor of Tasmania and Mr Richard Warner. This
was to have been a graveside service but was changed
at the last minute due to the weather. Again, the service
was well attended and supported by members of
the Rose Bay High School Band, Able Seaman John
McCorkelle and Able Seaman Stephanie McCorkelle.
At the conclusion of the service Her Excellency and Mr
Warner visited the grave of Private John Wanliss to see
first-hand the work of the project.
At the conclusion of the service Lieutenant General On the following
Campbell spoke with the personnel from the Royal Saturday Her Excellency
Tasmanian Regiment before making a visit to the was able to see how The
Soldiers Memorial Avenue in company with Lieutenant Headstone Project has
spread outside of Hobart
to the north-west coast
where she unveiled
thirteen plaques at the
Ulverstone General
Cemetery. This was
done in partnership
with members of the
Ulverstone RSL Sub-
branch who approached
34 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
us in 2016 to see if we could help them to install
headstones on the previously unmarked graves of
thirteen local men. Through the Work for the Dole
scheme and a grant from the state Centenary of Anzac
Community Grants Scheme, The Headstone Project
was able to provide the plinths and plaques and help
with the installation of both.
As always the services of dedication are a team effort.
An important part of that team is Captain Tavis
Harling, RSM Stephen Logan and staff at the Q Store
among serving personnel. Leading that team has been
Lieutenant Colonel Alex Thomson who, throughout
his appointment here, has been supportive of the
project. We are sad to see him leave, but wish him well
in his next appointment. We also greatly appreciate the
support of the Royal Tasmanian Regiment Association.
Mrs Andrea Gerrard
Chair-Person of the Tasmanian Headstone Project
Committee
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 35
Regimental Collection
The Regimental Collection Committee continue to items relating to TX3781 Pte R. J. Wise of the 2/40th
enhance the collection by conserving items on hand, and Brig Doug Perry for the items relating to Captain
obtaining additional items, auditing the collection William Pollock Taylor. These items add significantly to
against collection aims, displaying additional items and the 40th, 2/12th and 2/40th sections of the collection.
broadening the awareness of it.
Part of the stewardship of any collection is ensuring
Maintaining a collection is a time consuming activity its relevance we have therefore embarked on an audit
conducted exclusively by volunteers. I would like process to ascertain the relevance of items in the
to thank Patricia Sabine who tutored us in the collection. This is an ongoing task but as of this time we
methodology of accessioning (recording) and was have identified and recommended the deaccessioning
instrumental in the setting up of the system for the of some 100 items. Approval for their removal has been
Elliott Collection. Also Andrea Gerrard who as an given by the Regimental Council and their disposal in
historian brings direction to the historical nature and on going. Most items were Military Pams of a generic
has moved the focus to documents and their historical nature. Some documents are for TMAG, Tas Archives,
significance. To Graham Alomes, Brian Grundy, Roger Military Museum of Tasmania and some are to be
McGinniss, Ralph Cooper and Ken Read my thanks returned to the donors.
for the hands on approach and doing many of the
mundane tasks required in a cheerful manner. I would The small building which held the collection is now a
also extend an invitation to any interested person to photographic display of the Regiment throughout its
join the volunteers in assisting to preserve this piece of history. It is proposed that the display would change
Regimental history. annually to a determined theme such as but not limited
to WW1, WW2, Militia/CMF and 12/40 RTR. Recently
Conservation resources are expensive and I would a number of photographs have been framed and hung.
thank donors for their contributions. In particular the Framing helps to preserve them but unfortunately
RTR Association, the RAINF Officers, LtCol Hughes many are uncaptioned and efforts are being made to
and LtCol Thompson. identify some of those depicted.
A major portion of the collection are the artefacts and Hard items such as medals, weapons, equipment
documents from the family of LtCol C. H Elliott, CMG, etc are displayed in the old messes along with some
DSO, the Commanding officer of the 12th Bn in Egypt photographs. Other items are temporarily displayed in
and France. The collection includes his personal diaries the Old Bn Hq building and it is proposed that a new
for 1914, 1915, 1916, 1917, and 1918 as well as his medals display will be set up in the new B Coy HQ.
and original citation documents.
It is intended, when security can be assured, to display
Of great significance, we also hold documents and some of the collection at A Coy. To this end a display
medals of his wife Alice. She was a nursing sister, Sister cabinet has been acquired and when arrangements are
Alice Gordon King from Hobart who sailed on the in place it is hoped that some items can be displayed
Geelong along with the battalion. early next year.
His diaries have been transcribed verbatim to a digital The move of BHQ to Anglesea Barracks may open up
format and are available for research and further display options within the HQ and
study. His medals are shown below, but he was also
Mentioned in Dispatches three times. Recently we have collaborated with the Tasmania
Museum And Art Gallery to loan them memorabilia
of Bluey, the Battalion Mascot, for their exhibition on
the Tasmanian Devil. The 12th Battalion took a devil to
Egypt with them but unfortunately little is known of it
from when the Bn embarked for Gallipoli.
I commend the collection to members of the Regiment
and the greater military family. We are endeavoring to
broaden the awareness of the collection to the general
public.
We would like to thank the Evans Family for the items Dennis Townsend
relating to their grandfather and father who served in Colonel
the 40th and 2/12th respectively, the Wise Family for Chair Regimental Collection Committee
36 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
Recruiting
Greetings from the URLO. Apart from supporting recruiting activities, the unit
also supported a number of related tasks. These
2017 has been a busy and rewarding year on the where the Defence Work Experience Program, the
recruiting front. The unit represented itself well at Matt Millhouse Challenge and the Callum Cohen
a number of recruiting events ranging from career Work Experience Day. These tasks received significant
information nights, dedicated Ares information national media coverage and social media engagement,
sessions, YOU sessions, tasks supporting DFR through which in turn significantly raised the unit’s profile both
to one on one information sessions with potential publicly and within Defence up to AHQ level.
enlistees.
The major events that the unit supported where the V8 As my time as the URLO draws to a close, I would like
Super Cars, AGFEST, the Hobart Careers Expo and the to take this opportunity to thank all of the members
Burnie show. These events allowed the unit to showcase that have assisted me with recruiting tasks throughout
itself to the general public which in turn raised the the year. The level of professionalism that has been
profile of the unit, with the overall aim of increasing displayed has been of a consistently high standard and
the manning of the Battalion. a credit to the unit.
All of this has resulted in 21 new battalion members Good soldiering.
and over 100 potential enlistees.
Hobart Careers Expo UTAS Careers Market Stall day
The 2017 Burnie Show Galactic Recruiting Team AGFEST 2017
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017- 37
Exercise Broodseinde and Awards 2017
Derwent Barracks was the setting of this year’s Overall it was a memorable event that incorporated
Military Skills Competition named after the Battle of all the hallmarks of good soldiering and values of the
Broodseinde (1917) which the Bn was involved in heavy Australian Army.
fighting.
Awards 2017
The activity was the culminating event on the Battalion
calendar as sections were put to the test to see who • Champion Soldier: PTE Webster (A Coy)
would reign supreme for the next 12 months. • Junior Leader: CPL Price (B Coy)
Soldiers rotated through a number of challenging • Subbie of the year: LT Johnstone (B Coy)
stands including: • Top Shot: PTE Zanker (A Coy)
• RTR Association Prize: PTE D Coglan (A Coy)
• Shooting on the Weapons Training Simulation • Champion Mil Skills Section: I11C B Coy
System (WTSS) CPL Price
LCPL Treloar
• Route March PTE Abdullah
• Trailer Push PTE Austin
• Judging distances/ Observation lane PTE Pattison
• Obstacle crossing PTE Sharp
• Section Assault and Urban Clearance PTE Jackson
• Care of the Battle Casualty PTE Scott
• Stretch Carry
• CASEVAC/ LZ marking • Federation Star PTE Phil Dent (Admin Coy)
• Soldier Medallion CPL Stoop (Admin Coy)
Alpha, Bravo were all represented and conducted
themselves to a high standard. However there could Promotions 2017:
only be one winner and that went to the Bravo
Company Section lead by CPL Price, comprising of • LCPL Price (B Coy) promoted to CPL
PTE Abdullah, PTE Austin, PTE Pattison, PTE Sharp, • PTE Gavin Byrd (B Coy) promoted to LCPL
PTE Jackson, PTE Scott, assisted by the 2IC LCPL • PTE Kristian Wynn (B Coy) promoted to LCPL
Treloar • WO2 Craig Hodge (S7 BHQ) promoted to WO1
• CPL John Surtees (A Coy) promoted to SGT
In the evening, the battalion and enjoyed the • SGT Joshua Groves (A Coy) promoted to WO2
hospitality of the Sergeants Mess. Battalion members
and their families were present, representatives from
the RTR Association and honoured guests included the
Colonel Commandant, Major General Steve Smith,
Greater Hobart RSL President Kieran Leonard, and
Colonel Dennis Townsend from the RTR Association.
Various presentations were made to recognise
members who achieved outstanding throughout
the year.
38 - THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017
CPL Price presented the Junior Leader award by CO and RSM PTE Webster presented Champion Soldier Award by
LTCOL Thomson
LT Johnston award Champion Subbie Top Shot award went to PTE Zanker, accepted by SGT Griffiths
PTE D Coglan awarded the RTR Association prize by
Graham Alomes
THE LION’S ROAR - JANUARY - DECEMBER 2017 - 39
Thank you to all those who contributed to the
production of this year’s Lion’s Roar, in particular
PTE Cameron Scott and Resilience Marketing.
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