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courage

w w w . a r m y. m i l . n z
| CO m m i t m e n t | comradeship | integrity

I s s u e47 1 | a p r i l 2 0 1 6

gallipoli numbers breakthrough

Double the personnel previously thought

New battle training facility

Preparing SAS for complex, high-risk situations

Army sports awards

Recognising sporting achievement
 NZarmy SMA.Net Sergeant Major of the Army,

news
WO1 Titch Mortiboy

april 2016
Know Your Stuff
ISSUE 471 During a recent CA visit to a unit, we listened to soldiers give us a brief on
their role, their equipment, how they operate and what they need to make

Contents
them better. Lots of acronyms, specific to their task, and their knowledge
matched their passion. We see this quite often. We patrol though
workshops, kitchens, medical facilities, gun lines and command posts.
Officers and soldiers tell us what they do, how they do it and why. Almost
always they add in what’s wrong and what they want (and why wouldn’t you
NEWS with CA there!). They are good at what they do and we expect them to be
Anzac Day 03 because that what makes their callsigns work inside the task group, Land
Component, and Army as a whole.
Battle Training Facility opens 05 The same goes for leadership. Competence is an important leadership trait,
as it builds trust. Troops won’t follow leaders who are no good at soldiering,
PEOPLE nor their particular function, nor being in command. Just as our soldiers have
to stay on top of their soldier and trade skills, NCOs and officers must get
Civilian farewelled 06 across those areas that keep them competent as leaders and commanders.
Welcome in Tonga 07 We are entrusted with the lives of our soldiers and missions, on behalf of our
country, so it behoves us to be as good as we can be.
Financial advice 13 NCOs are trainers and well as leaders. Coursing is just the foundation
Working part-time 17 upon which we must build our knowledge and skills through further
training and experience. How do we do that? Firstly, our own leaders need
to facilitate our ongoing learning through AARs and target events, which
TRAINING practice making scenario-based decisions under pressure. We need to
seek assessment and review of our orders and tasks we conduct, so that
New training aids 10 we are continuing to polish our communication and command skills. We
Ex Moss Ridge 11 should be bold enough to check with our soldiers as to how we are doing:
after yourself, they will be your harshest critic. We need to keep innovating
and creating realistic, tough, testing training events, and always seeking
SPORT improvement.
NCOs are trainers. Practise your instructional skills through the BHE and
Cricket 25 BHL models. These are good platforms inside the garrison environment
Sports Awards 26 during normal unit routine. Conduct your own validation sessions so
that you can pick up on the key points. Where possible, go back to your
respective school and assist on courses. This helps to keep us up to date,
and when you have to teach you need to be on top of the subject or skill. If
you are working alongside, or in support of, another callsign then try to get
involved in their training. It not only gives you an understanding of what
they do, but often you also gain tips on different ways to conduct training.
There are other ways of staying competent. I will mention one more:
education. I have been thinking about and researching this topic, to make
The Army News is published for the the link between ‘broadening the mind’ and soldiering. So far I have settled
Regular and Territorial Force and
civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.
on the theory that it helps our ‘capacity’ to take on complex and/or multiple
source information and draw it forward when required. This is a valuable
skill when making decisions under pressure. This type of knowledge is
different to that assimilated under rote, or instilled methods for those
instinctive aspects of our task. Having a ‘cognitive edge’ provides for those
intangible but very real factors present in combat operations.
We do regular PT and train in our own time to exercise muscles and grow
the capacity of our respiratory system. For soldiers, “exercising the brain” is
viewed as nowhere near the same level as PT. Increasingly, this is changing
for our WOs and sergeants, but has to change for lower ranks. From
numeracy and literacy, through to technical knowledge and professional
study, we must improve our communication and comprehension skills.
Whilst combat failure can occur through physical fatigue and moral
weakness, it is just as likely to be through poor decisions. Equally, the
opportunity to win comes through courage, conviction and competent
leadership.
We need to ‘exercise our brains’ to be better: read, study, write, present,
debate, wargame, test. Good work has been done to provide for periods
of distance and residential learning. The ability to access online education
resources and information, in general, allows us to expand our knowledge
base. If this still seems a stretch for you, find something you are interested
in and read. Reading is one of the most useful ways to broaden the
mind. Ask yourself the ‘so what’? Find out what you don’t know or don’t
understand, including words and phrases.
As NCOs we lead, train and mentor. We need to be competent to be
professional military leaders in the land environment. To add to your leader
‘kete’ (basket), know yourself and know your people, and know your stuff.

Gallipoli numbers breakthrough

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
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Nothing in the Army News should be taken
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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.
COVER: New Battle Training
Facility for SAS personnel.
See story page 5.
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New research has discovered that there were more than 16,000 soldiers
at Gallipoli – nearly double the amount once thought.
It was previously believed that just 8,556 soldiers of the New Zealand
Expeditionary Force landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915.
But recent research undertaken by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
(MCH) and the New Zealand Defence Force has shown that at least
16,000 New Zealand soldiers served at Gallipoli.
In his preface to Major Fred Waite’s 1919 official history, The New
Zealanders at Gallipoli, General Sir Ian Hamilton wrote that 8,556 soldiers
landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915.
GEN Hamilton seems to have been referring only to the first few units to
land at Gallipoli in April to late May 1915. Later in the book, Waite made it
clear that this number did not include the reinforcements that were later
sent to the peninsula.
MCH Chief Historian Neill Atkinson said the new research, which began
in November last year, is the most comprehensive investigation ever
undertaken into the total numbers of New Zealand soldiers who served
at Gallipoli.
“Thanks to Archives New Zealand’s digitisation of First World War
service records in 2014, the researchers were able to analyse thousands
of individual military service files but soon discovered there were
limitations to these types of records.
“First World War military service files recorded a soldier’s military
career, movements between units, and illnesses, but were less with a much higher accuracy,” Mr Crawford said.
concerned with placing them in a particular campaign or theatre of war. The research initially looked at 2,429 service records of the 6th
Sometimes that ‘Gallipoli box’ simply wasn’t checked,” said Mr Atkinson. Reinforcements, the last reinforcement to reach Egypt before the end
Further analysis of unit movements and official war diaries gave a of the 1915 Gallipoli campaign. This analysis showed that at least 76%
much better understanding of Gallipoli service, but NZDF Historian John of these men served at Gallipoli, but that military service records alone
Crawford was certain there must have been other records maintained of could not provide a definitive answer. The project expanded to cross-
unit strength, departure of casualties and arrival of reinforcements. reference unit administrative files and to search for other relevant
The major breakthrough came in January this year when Mr Crawford material, including the recently-rediscovered DAAG’s notebooks.
discovered the notebooks of the Deputy Assistant Adjutant General The final figure was reached by adding the results of the 6th
(DAAG) of the Australian and New Zealand Division in Archives New Reinforcement research, the numbers estimated to be present in April−
Zealand. May 1915, and the numbers from the DAAG’s notebook research. The
“These meticulously kept records detail the movements of Australian research methodology was overseen by Statistics New Zealand.
and New Zealand Division soldiers on and off the Peninsula during June, “This figure is by no means final but it’s the most accurate we can achieve
July and August 1915 and meant we could calculate the total numbers using the evidence we have discovered to date,” said Mr Crawford.
 First World war centenary
Anzac Day 2016
reflecting on past and present
It is 100 years since the very
first Anzac Day services were
held on 25 April 1916. This
year, there will be about 300
Anzac Day commemorations
− from the top of the North
Island to the bottom of the
South Island − supported by
New Zealand Defence Force
personnel.
NZDF personnel will also be taking part in commemorations
overseas to mark this significant day, and other major
battles in New Zealand’s history.
As 2016 also marks the start of centenary
commemorations of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force’s
arrival on the Western Front, NZDF personnel will mark
Anzac Day in France and Belgium. On 15 September, the
first of a number of First World War centenaries will be
commemorated overseas: the anniversary of New Zealand’s
involvement in the Battle of the Somme.
Eighty-two percent of all of the New Zealand Expeditionary
Force’s casualties were in the Battle of the Somme, and in
the two years of fighting on the Western Front that followed.
The Western Front is now remembered for trench warfare,
mines, barbed wire, gas and tanks − industrialised modern
warfare on a scale that hadn’t been seen before.
Anzac Day is commemorated by NZDF personnel, and New
Zealanders everywhere, who reflect on the past and take
stock of where they are today.
Flight Lieutenant Carsten Grimm, a former helicopter pilot
and flying instructor, now a trainee psychologist based
“That small bit of discomfort we
experience when we get up early to go to
a dawn service is a useful reminder of the
larger sacrifice made.”
– Flight Lieutenant Carsten Grimm
a
message
from
chief
of army
at Burnham Camp, says Anzac Day services are a time to
reflect on both the past and the present.
“It is important that we stop and take a moment to reflect
on the past and think about the sacrifices made by the
people who have served in previous conflicts,” he says.
In reflecting on the past: “We realise how good we’ve got
it; how lucky we are; there but for the grace of God and in a
different time and place… For those serving, we realise that
implicitly.”
Getting out of bed early to attend a dawn service also acts
as a small but tangible reminder of the hardship endured.
“That small bit of discomfort we experience when we get
up early to go to a dawn service is a useful reminder of the
larger sacrifice made,” he says.
It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing sacrifices
military people continue to make in the service of their
country, he says.
“People are still making sacrifices for the things they
strongly believe in and finding the courage to stand up for
what they believe is important.”
FLTLT Grimm will attend the dawn parade in Christchurch
with his partner and their three girls, and they will go to
a 10am service in Lyttelton. While the mood at Anzac Day
services is sombre, his daughters feel proud to be part of it,
as do so many other young New Zealanders who appreciate The first quarter of this year has already gone – and so far,
the significance of the day, he says. the SMA and I have travelled around our Army, giving us
In Wellington on Anzac Day, Corporal Maaka McKinney will the opportunity to meet a large number of our soldiers and
civilian workforce. I have spent time with supply technicians
read the Ode of Remembrance in te reo Maori at the Last
Post Ceremony in Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. on the Intermediate Supply Course; had breakfast with our
newest recruits, in Waiouru; been in the bush with soldiers
CPL McKinney joined the Army in 1990 and has served from 3/6 Bn; watched the 5/7 Bn Field Ex; visited Veterans
in Iraq and Bosnia. He’s seen some “ugly places” and Affairs, in Wellington; chatted to the chefs in B Block Mess,
while he doesn’t believe this compares to what soldiers in Burnham; attended the Army Sports Awards; had lunch
endured in the First and Second World Wars, “I can relate with the subbies and SNCOs, in Linton and Burnham; visited
in some form”. the Command teams of both formations and 1st and 2/1
“It is important for our future generations to never forget Bn, 2 Engr Regt and 3 CSSB; joined 2 CSSB in marking the
the sacrifices that not only those servicemen and women 20th anniversary of the RNZALR with a dawn service and
breakfast with young soldiers; visited HRSC, in Upper Hutt;
made but also those that sailors, soldiers and airmen and
airwomen make today,” he says. and finally, attended the opening of the new NZSAS Battle
Training Facility, in Auckland.
“Anzac Day is a day of reflection and reminiscing days of
There is no doubt in my mind that this is the most
past in peace and war, and having a sense of pride in the
rewarding part of being your Chief of Army. Getting around
uniform I wear and the service I represent. Reciting the Ode and speaking to you all has been a highlight of my time thus
on Anzac Day in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is
not only a privilege but also an honour. And one that I will
far. These visits help me get to know some of you, and find
out how long you have been in, what you do, where you come
cherish and remember forever.” from, what your family thinks about the Army and, most
NZDF personnel have also been involved in preparations importantly, what you think about our Army − the good and
for Anzac Day services, such as in Tinui where NZDF the bad.
personnel from 2ER and QAMR have been helping upgrade
the Anzac Memorial Walkway. Tinui is one of the first places
In my interaction with you all, the one thing that always
stands out, for me, is the energy and dedication you all bring
to hold an Anzac Day commemoration in New Zealand. to the many roles that contribute to making our small Army
Numbers at Anzac Day services in Tinui have swelled over and Defence Force great. These visits reinforce my belief
the past five years, from around 50 people to about 2500 that the vast majority of our soldiers (all ranks) and civilian
staff live the values of the NZ Army and Defence Force.
last year.
It’s because of the way our people act that make us such
a valued partner wherever we contribute – be that during
building partner capacity operations in Iraq, or population
NZDF support for the Anzac Day national
support operations, such as the recent humanitarian
commemorative programme, centred on assistance mission in Fiji.
Pukeahu National War Memorial Park is: To you all, may I simply say, thank you for all that you do.
0520−1750 Vigil Guard at the Tomb of the The SMA and I come away with a great sense of pride when
Unknown Warrior we visit, and are humbled to lead such a great team. Like
our mission says, and I firmly we believe: we are well led,
0530 The Dawn Service in Pukeahu well trained and well equipped to win – principally, because
1100 National Commemorative Service of the great soldiers and civilians in our force. However, we
in Pukeahu must remain vigilant and ensure that we always look out for
each other.
1430 The Ataturk Memorial Wreath-Laying Onward, ubique, ma nga hua tu-tangata, who dares wins
Ceremony at the Ataturk Memorial
1710−1750 The Last Post Ceremony in Pukeahu. Major General Peter Kelly
Chief of Army
04armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016

Rewarding
health and
safety stars
The 1 NZ Brigade Risk and Safety office has launched a
monthly award to reward leadership in health and safety.
The awards have been running since the beginning of
the year. The winners receive a certificate and $50 cash
prize, which is sponsored by long-standing NZDF partner,
Lockheed Martin.
Commander 1st NZ Brigade Colonel Hugh McAslan formed
the 1 NZ Brigade Risk and Safety office last year. Risk and
Safety Manager, Major Tim Woodman, says the awards
support COL McAslan’s wish to prioritise health and safety.
Unit health and safety representatives nominate suitable
candidates for the award each month, through the brigade
Risk and Safety office. Through their chain of command or The February recipient of the Lockheed Martin Health
unit health and safety representative, anyone can nominate and Safety award was SSGT Jason Gillespie. He solved a
an individual for an award. longstanding overheating problem in the kitchen of the Main
Award winners have come from a variety of incidents: Mess at Linton, which was being exacerbated by the recent
ranging from stopping an exercise due to unsafe weather, to heatwave and was causing staff to faint. The issue was
monitoring individuals at risk, to individuals working to make resolved after he installed extra air conditioning units, in his
people safe, in a healthy environment. own time.

‘First Mental health

responder’
By Sergeant Major of the Army, WO1 Titch Mortiboy
‘I don't know what's wrong − I don't think I can do this
anymore.’ That was the response to a genuine question I
had raised to an NCO (whom I call ‘Soldier A’) a few years
ago. We had picked up that Soldier A was not their usual
self, in terms of mood and behaviour; they'd just gone
a bit quiet, lacked some drive and seemed on edge. I
had decided to ask how things were off the back of a PT
session, rather than in my office. Suffice to say, we both
had a long cooldown period as we walked the confines of
the camp!
For Soldier A, things had just got too much. Work was full
on and a personal relationship hadn't been great, and they
were now suffering even more. Posting time was around
the corner, and a couple of options on the table had added
a bit of stress in determining what to do. Soldier A was a
typically robust sort of individual, professional in their role
and a good character to be around. Without realising it,
things had just become complicated and their usual ‘body
armour’ had some gaps exposed. What was worse was
that they couldn't explain why they felt like this, and didn't
want to let the side down or show ‘weakness’. Soldier A
was going ‘man down’.
Fast forward to today and we still have a percentage of
our soldiers suffering, and in numbers hard to measure.
Some are suffering due to traumatic event(s), and not
necessarily combat action, or from deployments. Others
have diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health conditions.
Often, like Soldier A, things just get on top of us and/or
some key aspects of our lives get off track. Regardless, to
those that suffer, the emotions and thoughts are very real.
Stigma is real. Lack of understanding is real. An inability to
feel ‘normal’ is real. A fear of going under is real.
Typically, those unwell don't want the Army to know,
for fear of it affecting employment and deployment. They
are concerned about what others will think. Conversely, if
you've never been exposed to someone who is mentally
unwell, it’s hard to understand and know what to do. What
do I say? Aren't experts needed? What can I do?
I've been the ‘first responder’ as a family member, a
sergeant major and a mate. I'm no expert and in the initial
cases all I could offer was being there. I have more ‘jungle
tips’ now. If you are concerned about someone, ask the
question: “You ok?” And be prepared to ask it again:
“Seriously, are you ok?” Check what would be helpful. Talk
and listen. Encourage them to seek further help and offer
to go along. You will be surprised how much knowing that
you care can positively help.
One hundred years ago this month, a national
conference of WW1 returned soldiers set up the
constitution of the then NZ Returned Soldiers
Association (now the Returned and Services
Association). We often associate the NZRSA with
remembrance and memorials. For sure, that's part of
it. But don't forget that it was originally formed to help
the living. The aim was simple: to protect the interests
of returning soldiers. The NZRSA provided advocacy
whilst promoting comradeship and emotional support
to those whose lives had been changed by the war.
One hundred years on, let's live up to the legacy:
look after our soldiers. Be there for your mates. No
judgements. No explanations. To have the courage
to ask for help or check if help is needed. To respect
privacy and uphold dignity. To cause no further harm.
To trust each other. To care. That's what leaders and
soldiers do.
If you are having a tough time coping; if you know
yourself that things aren't right; find one of your team
and tell them. We can get things underway to get you
the help you need. I see Soldier A in passing from time
to time. Very few others knew or needed to know. I'm
just glad the team saw the signs and got involved. So is
Soldier A.
information
made easier
Maintaining good mental
health is important. To
better support the mental
health of our people and
their families, Defence
Health has recently
launched a range of
initiatives.
Our confidential helpline, 0800 NZDF 4U (0800 693348
or 0800 189910), has been launched, the Mental
Health in the Workplace toolkit released, and the
Mental Health Pocketbook and other print resources
have been circulated across camps and bases.
This month we have launched a complete refresh of
our Mental Health Intranet, which includes a range
of self-management resources about recognising the
signs of mental health issues, and how to take action.
It is accessible from the front page of the intranet
and we plan to make it available on our Health Portal,
accessible to veterans, reserves and family members.
The site will continue to be shaped over time, so if you
have any feedback or suggestions for other things
you’d like to see, contact mentalhealth@nzdf.mil.nz
 armynews05 issue 471 | april 2016

Battle training facility opens

The NZDF’s new Battle Training Facility (BTF)

will prepare SAS personnel for operating in
complex situations.
The $46-million purpose-built facility in Ardmore,
Auckland, took two years to build. It replaces obsolete
training facilities used by SAS personnel in Papakura.
It includes facilities for all-weather training, live
firing, use of helicopters, and scenario training based
on specific environments and structures, such as
aircraft fuselages, ship’s bridges, and public transport.
In the previous facilities, SAS personnel could not
fire their primary operational weapons; however, the
new BTF allows for live firing, and up to advanced full-
mission rehearsals.
Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Tim
Keating, said the “world-class” facility would provide
a training environment to help prepare people for
operating in complex environments.
“Security threats have become more complex, so
it’s vital the NZDF have modern facilities to train SAS
personnel, who are required to operate in high-risk and
complex environments.”
He gave the example of a shooter in a crowded market.
In that complex situation, NZDF personnel would have
to discern “who to shoot at, who to disable”.
At the official opening of the new facility, in April,
Prime Minister John Key said that when SAS were
deployed “we absolutely owe it to them and their
families” to ensure they were fully prepared for the
situations they would be placed in.
The BTF was at the “top of the range for what they’re
doing”, Mr Key said.
“I think that at this facility they (the SAS) should
be able to do everything that would allow them to
be as prepared as you ever can be for the sorts of
circumstances they are put into, from time to time.’’
Mr Key said the New Zealand SAS were extremely well
thought of by other militaries. That was because “they
know they have great capability, they’re tremendously
well trained, they’re just very, very good people” who
could make the “right calculated” decisions.
LTGEN Keating said the BTF will primarily be used by
the SAS; however, it is an important resource for the
whole of NZDF. It will also be used by other government
agencies with a security role, including the NZ Police
Special Tactics Group.
“This is a capability that is of significant benefit to
the whole of the NZDF. It is futureproofed in its design
and built to a world-class standard.”
The Papakura Base will still remain in use by the SAS.
06armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016

Farewell for 40 years’ service to NZDF

Christine Ward (third from left), flanked by her husband Bryan and daughter Emma, and also pictured with Danny Turnbull, Delivery Services Manager Burnham – DSSG (left), and
(right) Vivienne Heaney, her good friend; Lorraine Aitken, Team Leader Camp Support – DSSG; and Glenda Parata, Director DSSG.

By Charlene Smart
Burnham Military Camp
recently said farewell to civilian
Christine Ward after almost
40 years’ service to the NZDF.
Christine joined NZDF in 1977 where she was employed as
a clerk at Burnham Camp Headquarters.
She has worked in the education section, as a
registry clerk, moved the filing system from manual to
computerised, and worked as a data entry clerk for the
Burnham Camp library.
In 1997, Christine became the Non Public Funds (now
Defence Shared Services) clerk, completing accounting
and administration tasks, and remained in this role until
her retirement.
Team Leader Camp Support for DSSG, Lorraine Aitken, said,
“Christine is a well-respected and hardworking member of
the NZDF team and will be missed.”
Christine, who is deaf but can lip read, has had a number of
memorable moments while working in Burnham. During her
leaving speech, she recalled returning from a lunchtime run
to discover all the headquarters staff outside the office, due
to a suspected bomb scare inside.
To Christine’s embarrassment, it turned out that she left
her hearing aid turned on in her desk drawer and it was
“whistling along, they had never heard this kind of noise
before”. It was a false alarm.
She often played squash with a chef clerk warrant officer,
but on one occasion she accidently hit him in the eye with
her racket.
“We were struggling to beat each other; we were even
most of the time. He came up right behind me and I
accidently hit him hard in his eye with my squash racket
and he ended up with an awful black eye,” she said.
She was worried that she would be ‘told off’ by the
warrant officer, but thankfully she was not.
Christine said she had had some great experiences
working within the Army and had met so many
great people.
“It has held so many good memories in my heart and has
been a huge part of my life. I’ve been here so long, but it
is time for me to leave Burnham Military Camp and enter
the next stage of my life,” she said.
Christine received a letter of recognition of long service
from the Chief of Defence at her farewell. She is looking
forward to spending more time with her horses and
trekking the high country in her retirement.

Sapper lived his Corporal Seymour

short life to the full
Sapper Danny Jordan, 23, RNZE, died tragically on March 31, while on a hunting trip
in the Ruahine ranges.
“We are devastated at the loss of our beloved Danny,” said his family. “We are
comforted by the show of love and support from so many people. Our hearts and
thanks go out to his two mates that dealt with his passing as a result of the hunting
accident in the Ruahine ranges, on DOC land. Danny lived life to the full; there was
never a dull moment with him between fishing, diving, work, friends, family, and his
passion of hunting.
“Danny has a huge family
in the Army and he always
had Army brothers to share
adventures with. We are
blessed with the amazing
support the Army has given
us, making an impossible
time a time of love, support,
and space to grieve.
“Danny was a loving,
loveable, and respectful
young man who gave to so
many in so many different
ways. We are feeling all the
love that Danny had given to
so many, which is now being
returned to us and we are
eternally grateful.”
farewelled
Linton soldier CPL Charles Seymour who died
suddenly in February was farewelled by his family,
friends and colleagues at a military funeral in
Palmerston North.
CPL Seymour joined the NZ Army, RNZALR
in February 2009. He served in Afghanistan,
deploying there in October 2012 and returning
home in April 2013. He attained the rank of LCPL
in March 2012 and was promoted to Corporal in
August 2015. He spent the majority of his time
working within the auto-parts section of 2nd
Combat Service Support Battalion (2 CCSB) and
Queen Alexandra Mounted Rifles.
The Regimental Sergeant Major of 2CSSB, WO1
Ray Kareko said CPL Seymour was a strong and
reliable member of the deployed force. “He was
posted to 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion in December 2015 from QAMR. His
main focus was to gain 2nd line exposure and to be a great dad for his only son Harley
who was born in July 2014.
“He attained the rank of LCPL in March 2012 and was promoted to Corporal in August
2015. He spent the majority of his time working within the auto-parts section of 2nd
Combat Service Support Battalion and Queen Alexandra Mounted Rifles.
“Overall CPL Seymour had a great start to his military career. All his reports reflected
a hard working soldier who had a good attitude and work ethos. He had been given
the opportunity to complete an operational deployment, a highlight for his career. His
trade knowledge will be missed not only at 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion but
the wider RNZALR community,” said WO1 Kareko.
 armyPEOPLE07 issue 471 | april 2016

Warm, VIP welcome in Tonga

By CPL ML Taufa

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Kingdom of Tonga,

as part of the Chief of Army’s visit there.
Until we arrived at Fu’amotu Airport, it hadn’t really sunk in
just how important it is for Tongans to welcome their guests,
especially if you’re of VIP status.
We were escorted into a VIP lounge, and offered
refreshments and snacks.
At first, I thought it was a holiday for the Chief and his
party, but it was far from that, as he needed to be in different
places, with different dress codes, throughout the three-
day visit.
The group visited the New Zealand High Commissioner’s
Office, in the capital, where I learned of the course of action
they would take if Tonga was faced with potential natural
disasters, like Cyclone Winston, which recently struck Fiji.
We met Her Excellency, Sarah Walsh, who invited us to the
residential part of the High Commission, for refreshments
later that evening.
Tonga has a culture steeped in 3,000 years of traditions;
it is a hierarchical society where the people are divided into
four separate classes: royalty; nobility or high chiefly ranks;
priesthood or spiritual leaders; and commoners.
I, myself, am a commoner, and so it was surreal for me to
sit and share a meal with men from the nobility class, such
as Lieutenant Colonel Ve’ehala, who is also known as
Honorary Lord Ve’ehala, whilst talking about the Military
Rugby World Cup.
In most cases, it is strictly taboo for commoners to mingle
with royalty and nobility in Tonga. However, in this case,
it was permitted, as I was part of a group of visiting
foreign VIPs.
We visited the Touliki Naval Base and the Taliai Army Camp.
At Taliai Camp, Tongan soldiers who had been posted to
Burnham as MAP students were running up to greet us, and
offered to spit pigs and put down ‘umu’s (hangi’s) for us.
Due to our busy schedule, I humbly declined their offer and
swapped some momentous materials instead.
This reflects the close-knit relationship we have forged with
Pacific Islanders over decades; during training courses they
have learned the Kiwi way, and are always willing to return
the favour on their home soil.
I was then given time to see family and friends at my village,
which was only 10 minutes down the road. It was good to see
cousins, aunties and uncles, and also the changes within the
village itself.
It’s been a while since I last tasted a good, home-cooked
Tongan meal, so I took full advantage of the opportunity,
adding an extra layer for the looming Canterbury winter.
In all, it was an amazing experience and an unforgettable
one too. Thank you, sir, for including me in your entourage.
CPL Manu Taufa with WO1 Timote Ngungutau, RSM of
Tu’a ‘ofa atu, Malo ‘Aupito
Taliai Camp

Proud tradition continues in age of

“exponential technological advancement”
3/6 RNZIR is an Army Reserve
unit with growing momentum,
under its new leadership.
Lieutenant Colonel Olly Te Ua became Commanding Officer of
3/6 Battalion in early 2015 and was soon joined at the helm
by WO1 Pereira, who took up the post of Regimental Sergeant
Major. Since then the Battalion’s training efforts have taken
on a new rigour.
3/6 Battalion has a proud tradition of service. It celebrated
the Battalion’s 170th birthday in May 2015, and reflected on
the rich history of the unit. This inspired the renaming of its
platoons in tribute to the unit’s battle honours, and prompted
the battalion to request a change to the unit identifier, to
reflect the one borne by the battalion’s serving soldiers
during World War One.
Reflecting on the past has also made the unit acutely
cognisant of being an Army Reserve unit operating in a
time of exponential technological advancement. The unit is
making use of the NZDF Hub to encourage communication in
a secure, but social media-friendly way.
Under the guidance of Lieutenant Colonel Te Ua, the
battalion is also tackling one of the key challenges for an
Army Reserve unit head on, by promoting the battalion’s
“employer support programme”.
“Without the support of employers, the Army Reserve
could not achieve the attendance at training that enables our
soldiers to deploy,” says LTCOL Te Ua.
In conjunction with these efforts, there is a renewed
emphasis on the battalion’s presence in its local communities.
“That is vital to the growth and support of the unit. This
will facilitate the battalion’s role in the Civil Defence of the
Auckland, Northland and Hauraki region.”
Aside from connecting with our local communities, the
battalion is also rekindling its affiliations with foreign units.
“These relationships provide opportunities for our soldiers
to connect with other military personnel when travelling or
working overseas.”
This year brings an end to the term of Colonel (Retired) Grant
Ellis as the battalion’s Honorary Colonel.
“3/6 Battalion is grateful for the support he has given to our
activities over the last five years and he will no doubt continue
to promote our Army Reserve unit in the wider Auckland
community. While Colonel Ellis is a huge loss to the Battalion,
we are fortunate to welcome Lieutenant Colonel (Retired)
Tenby Powell to the appointment of Honorary Colonel.”
The second half of the training year will be busy for 3/6
Battalion, with the Infantry Skills Module 1 and Module
2 courses, close-country weekend exercises, as well as
shooting development training.
LTCOL Te Ua says the battalion will continue to focus on
the training that will enable its soldiers to be operationally
efficient, and the esprit de corps to retain a high degree of
experience and leadership amongst personnel.
The cohesiveness of the unit is being cemented in quality
training, strong leadership and a forward-thinking approach.
The year brings new challenges and new opportunities for
3/6 Battalion.
08our collectivepurpose
issue 471 | april 2016

Op Antarctica
winds down
The remainder of the Operation Antarctica is a joint effort between the Army, Air Zealand is contributing to the continued advancement of
Force and Navy. Up to 220 personnel deployed during the their work,” said AIRCDRE McEvoy.
Operation Antarctica October−February summer season.
This year 60 Army soldiers and logistics specialists assisted
The Senior National Officer of Operation Antarctica,
Major Alistair McColl, said Antarctica is one of NZDF’s
contingent returned to New with unloading the annual container ship, which provides
McMurdo Station and Scott Base with a year’s supply of
specialist areas of operation. “We use highly trained
people and equipment to cope with the challenging
Zealand in March, marking science equipment, food, and construction materials, needed
to sustain researchers in one of the world’s most inhospitable
environment. Our input is valued because of the flexibility
and reliability we offer in niche areas like this.”
the end of another successful laboratories.
“Operation Antarctica is one of our major missions; since
The NZDF provides search and rescue support, air
transport, logistics staff, fuel specialists, engineers, cargo
summer season. 1965, the NZDF has been supporting New Zealand and
American scientists as they carry out important research on
handlers, drivers and communications specialists to Scott
Base and McMurdo Station. NZDF also supports terminal
An RNZAF Boeing 757 returned to Christchurch with the the ice,” said Deputy Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, operations at Harewood Terminal in Christchurch.
last 22 personnel, who have been based in Antarctica for Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy. An RNZAF Boeing 757 will complete one last flight in early
two months. “We are proud that our partnership with Antarctica New April before the ‘winter’ season officially starts.

NZDF completes humanitarian aid
operation in Fiji
by Luz Baguioro, Public Affairs Manager – Joint Forces
New Zealand
“Thank you NZ for your quick response to our need. We will
miss you.” The neatly scribbled graffiti on the wall of what
used to be a community centre in Lomaloma village in Fiji’s
remote northern Lau archipelago is echoed in scores of social
media posts and pretty much sums up what Fijians feel about
New Zealand’s assistance to their country in the aftermath of
Tropical Cyclone Winston.
After seven weeks, the New Zealand Defence Force
completed its humanitarian aid operation in cyclone-ravaged
Fiji, with the remaining 300 personnel due to return to New
Zealand on HMNZS CANTERBURY on 21 April.
The NZDF deployed close to 500 personnel to support Fiji’s
disaster recovery efforts after Winston pummelled the South
Pacific nation on February 20, killing at least 44 people and
rendering thousands homeless.
Around 150 combat engineers, tradespeople, plant
operators, specialists in environmental health and logistics,
and medical personnel from the New Zealand Army were
among those who assisted in the international aid effort. Two
ships and seven aircraft, including two medium utility NH90
helicopters, were also deployed in one of the NZDF’s largest
peacetime deployments to the Pacific.
“Our humanitarian aid operation in Fiji demonstrated once
again that we are well prepared to act swiftly in response to
a crisis such as Winston. Our early response helped the Fiji
government know the scale of the devastation and galvanise
support from foreign donors,” said Major General Tim Gall,
the Commander Joint Forces New Zealand.
MAJGEN Gall said NZDF personnel made a significant
contribution to New Zealand’s multi-agency assistance
to Fiji and helped strengthen longstanding ties with a
Pacific neighbour.
“Whilst the task of rebuilding will take years to complete,
the Fiji government and public have recognised our
people’s contribution to the international effort to get Fijian
communities back on their feet.
“Through their efforts and those of other New Zealand
agencies, the Kiwi flag waved high in Fiji. With their help, the
Fiji government was able to repair dozens of schools, medical
facilities and community buildings, deliver food and other
essential aid supplies to far-flung islands and communities,
and restore access to safe drinking water,” MAJGEN Gall said.
Among the NZDF members who helped out in Fiji was
Private Leo Van Doorn, a New Zealand Army medic whose
mother is from Taveuni Island.
“I let my mum know and she was proud that I was involved.
Fortunately, her village was relatively unscathed. It was
our collectivepurpose09 issue 471 | april 2016
rewarding helping out where I could and seeing the progress
being made during the rebuilding.”
Fijian officials acknowledge that rebuilding from the loss
and devastation caused by the ferocious storm is a colossal
task that could take years and require millions of dollars in
international aid. About 45 per cent of Fiji’s population, many
in remote and far-flung islands, have been affected.
The assistance from New Zealand, particularly the NZDF,
was warmly received by the Fiji government and public.
“The major decisions we made from day one were based
mostly on the photos taken by the NZDF’s P-3K2 aircraft.
There were a lot of areas that we could not reach and we did
not know what happened in those areas. So we were thankful
when the NZDF came and for the information provided by
their P-3,” said Rear Admiral (RADM) Viliame Naupoto,
Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander.
Combined teams of engineers from the NZDF and the
Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) repaired dozens of
schools, medical centres and other community buildings on
the main island of Viti Levu and on Vanuabalavu and Yacata
islands in remote northern Lau, said Major Chris Wilson,
Officer Commanding of the Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Relief Task Unit.
MAJ Wilson said New Zealand Army engineers also set up
a water desalination station that converted seawater into
drinking water at Lomaloma village on Vanuabalavu Island.
Up to 10,000 litres of potable drinking water were produced
each day to support the New Zealand contingent and villages
on Vanuabalavu.
“All this rebuilding is helping bring back smiles and hope Duty comes first
to people in affected areas,” according to Fiji’s military chief.
“From a military perspective, we are happy with the way Returning to Fiji in February to support the aid
the NZDF has deployed (its personnel and assets). We are operation was not the homecoming Sergeant Nui Moce
complementing each other very well and we are able to work expected, or wanted.
faster – with the local knowledge that our boys have and But for the Fijian-born supply technician of the Royal
the technical expertise and tools from the NZDF,” RADM New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment, helping his
Naupoto said. fellow Fijians and seeing his family was an opportunity
NZDF ships and helicopters delivered hundreds of tonnes not to be missed.
of aid supplies to distressed communities across Fiji, from “I was a bit nervous when I arrived with the engineers
northern Lau in the east to the Yasawa islands, which make four days after the cyclone struck. I was glad to be back
up Fiji’s western border. and help the country but also sad to see the devastation
HMNZS CANTERBURY, which was anchored off Lomaloma and loss suffered by many,” said SGT Moce, who
and served as the maritime hub of the NZDF’s aid operation originally hails from Namacu village on Koro Island.
in the northern outer islands, carried around 380 tonnes of The NZDF offered to fly him on a NH90 helicopter to
aid supplies and construction materials to support rebuilding see his relatives in Koro, which had been turned into
in Vanuabalabu and Yacata islands. She also completed a virtual war zone by Tropical Cyclone Winston. But for
about 180 transfers on her landing craft in support of the SGT Moce, duty came first and it was only on 24 March
aid operation. that he finally visited his family.
The NH90 helicopters flew around 160 hours of relief “I feel privileged to be part of the NZDF. I was really
missions on their first overseas operation. happy to see my family and know that they are alright,”
“The helicopters provided a critical link between the said SGT Moce, an ex-Fijian Army engineer who joined
main population centres and the outlying islands up to the New Zealand Army in 1989.
the northern Lau archipelago which, at around 290 km to “I am a soldier and we are here to help the Fijians,
the east of Suva, is at the far range of our NH90s’ ability to and the job comes first. My family understands that.”
operate,” NH90 Detachment Commander Squadron Leader One of his aunts was killed by a concrete pillar when
Ben Pryor said. her home collapsed at the height of the storm. The
NH90 captain Flight Lieutenant Peter Familton said “What rest of his family, including four sisters and a brother,
we’ve demonstrated here in Fiji is that the NH90s are a survived unscathed.
strong enabler for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief As supply technician, SGT Moce is responsible
operations. They have performed well with respect to both for meeting the logistical requirements of the New
the tropical conditions and the austere environment. We’ve Zealand Army engineers deployed to Fiji to help repair
regularly operated to rough, unprepared landing zones such the schools, medical centres and other community
as beaches and undulating terrain without difficulty.” buildings wrecked by the storm.
“Being a local has its obvious advantages. I know
where to go to source what our engineers need and I
speak the language,” he said.
10armyTRAINING
issue 471 | april 2016
NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART TRAINING
AIDS FOR TRADE TRAINinG SCHOOL
Infantry skills put to the test
by Charlene Smart, Senior Communications Advisor
(South), Defence Public Affairs
Thirty-one soldiers of the 2nd/4th Battalion of the Royal
New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) left their civilian
world behind to master their infantry skills in Exercise
Vella Lavalla recently.
Exercise Vella Lavalla, a close-country tactical exercise,
took place on the West Coast of the South Island. The
exercise involved soldiers participating in challenging
West Coast terrain in preparation for a large-firing exercise
later this year.
Vella Lavella is named after an island in the Solomon
Islands. The island was occupied by Japanese forces
and was the site of the first action by New Zealand’s
third division, involving more than 3700 troops. During
18 September and 9 October 1943, New Zealand troops,
largely from 14th Brigade, cleared the island of the
Japanese forces. In the process, 32 New Zealand soldiers
lost their lives. The conditions during this time were
The Trade Training School received
delayed Christmas presents – three
new state-of-the-art training aids –
on March 14.
The new training aids, named the Frame Electric
Layout System (FELS), are the only FELS of their kind in the
Southern Hemisphere. The FELS unit represents the full
electrical layout of an NZDF MAN HX58 platform. They are
essentially a truck without the chassis, diesel engine and
wheels on a table.
This acquisition is a big leap forward in ensuring our
automotive technicians are trained to diagnose the vast array
of faults which can occur across the MHOV family of vehicles,
which operate up to six computers to control vehicle systems.
The FELS were installed into the recently refurbished
classroom in the TTS MT Section by their designer and
builder, Harald Ritt of MAN Austria. Mr Ritt flew from Austria
to ensure the FELS were working correctly, and to carry
out initial operator training to MT instructors, as well as to
participate in a handover ceremony with Rheinmetal Military
Vehicles Australia (RMMVA).
The Land Component Commander, Brigadier Mike
Shapland, received the FELS system on behalf of the NZDF,
with Peter Ware accepting them into service on behalf of the
Ministry Of Defence.
The FELS allows advanced fault simulation and diagnostics
to be carried out in a controlled environment. The advantage
of the FELS units is that the entire truck is laid out in a logical
and easy-to-see format. Teaching points and identification
of vehicle parts are easily presented to groups, without the
need to clamber over a truck in a confined space. The FELS
units are operated exactly as any operator or maintainer
would after taking possession of a vehicle.
With a small flick of a switch, a wide variety of faults can
be induced throughout the system. The fault switches
are located on the back of the FELS and can be secured
to ensure only the instructor knows which fault has been
induced. The student will then follow a standard diagnostic
process starting with the fault appearing on the dash layout
followed by an in-depth diagnoses using the MANcats®
diagnostic computer. Faults of a various level of complexity
can be installed into the system, from a simple lighting
fault to a more complex fault with one of the many onboard
computer systems.
difficult, including heavy rain and thick jungle, much like
the conditions on the West Coast.
Soldiers of 2/4 RNZIR are reservists who come from all
over the South Island. They are employed in permanent,
part-time active roles, so can contribute to any NZDF
operation or exercise at any time. They have all completed
their initial training, promotion courses, night parades, and
weekend training, and they also supplement Regular Force
soldiers when required. Many have also deployed overseas
as well.
Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Brosnan
said, “2/4 Battalion is important to the New Zealand Army
because it provides a reserve of soldiers and officers
trained to a basic level of competency who can be called
upon to serve alongside regular force personnel in New
Zealand and overseas.”
More information about becoming a reservist in the
New Zealand Army can be found by visiting
www.defencecareers.mil.nz

Exercise Moss Ridge
Southern Reserve Force soldiers face heat, wind, limited visibility
armyTRAINING11 issue 471 | april 2016
Dense forest undergrowth that limited visibility to
less than two metres at times, and a warm norwester
blowing overhead were just some of the many
challenges facing soldiers during Exercise Moss Ridge.
The exercise involved more than 40 Reserve Force
soldiers from Bravo (Dunedin) and Charlie (Southland)
companies of 2/4 RNZIR. It took place in the Mahinerangi
Forest area, an hour’s drive west of Dunedin.
The training goals were simple: conduct a series
of close-country, blank-firing battle drills, to enable
the soldiers to practise section- and platoon-level
training. This will prepare them for their next live-
firing exercise, held later in May in the Acton Valley
forests in Southland.
“There were a lot of new soldiers with us this time but
they quickly picked up the skills needed and worked
in well at both the platoon and section levels,” said
the exercise commander, CAPT R. “They undertook
the difficult task of patrolling through the dense bush
with packs in hot and muggy conditions, practising
their contact drills before they undertook section night
routines overnight. They were bumped by the enemy
party (local RNZNVR personnel) in the early hours after
being on sentry duty all night.”
Many of the new soldiers had just finished their
MOD training and were up to speed with patrolling
with heavy packs in close country. Some of the older
soldiers quickly worked up a sweat in the heat, but
they adjusted quickly, making the most of the many
command and leadership opportunities offered during
the weekend.
“It was good to have the good gear on this exercise,”
added LCPL McB. “The NVG kits we used on sentry
duty really worked well in the forest and the warm
conditions made for a fun weekend.”
“It was a lot of fun,” added another soldier. “It gave
us the opportunity to get our skill levels up before we
undertake live firing.”
12armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016
The Personal Profile
SPR Callum MacErlich
SPR MacErlich is an IT consultant,
Army Reservist, and one of those
behind The Hub – a ‘game-changing’
social network for the NZDF.
What do you do as a civilian?
I’ve just started working as an IT consultant with Davanti
Consulting, in Wellington. Davanti is the company that
implemented The Hub for the NZDF, and I’ve been lucky
enough to transition between the two.
What got you interested in becoming a
reservist?
Both my father and grandfather have spent time in the Army
(In the RF and CMT), and I’ve always thought about joining.
I was looking for a job towards the end of my first year at
university, saw and advert for the Reserves and decided to
try. I finished Basic in 2013, and haven’t looked back since.
What do you enjoy most about being a
Reservist?
I love being able to get out and have a change of pace from
my civilian life, where I spend most of my time inside behind
a computer or desk. The Reserves is a way for me to stay
active; learn new skills − including some, like demolitions,
I would never have dreamed of in civie street; meet great
people; and give something back to New Zealand. Some
highlights have been working with the Canadians and
Americans on exercise in Waiouru, as well as being able to
help during the flooding in Whanganui last year.
Do you have specific IT skills that led to you
setting up the Hub?
In a word − no. I did one computer science paper at university,
although my other subjects helped. I started working for the
Directorate of Reserve Forces and Youth Development to help
with last year’s Employer of the Year awards, and then moved
over to The Hub. I’ve been lucky enough to have had COL
Steve Watts mentor me over that time, as well as having some
Top shot
The Sapper Mustapha Memorial trophy remembers a
fallen Sapper, Sapper Mustapha (pictured, right), who
died tragically in March 2015.
The trophy is awarded to the officer or soldier within
2 Fd Sqn who has the highest aggregate score for both
the IW Steyr and pistol AWQ (shooting qualification).
In December 2015, it was presented for the first time,
to LCPL Uta Nachkebia, at the 2 Field Squadron’s end-
of-year prize-giving function.
Pictured with the trophy are SPR Coulton, a close
friend of SPR
Mustapha, and
SPR Mustapha’s
mother, who is
seeing it for the
time.
SPR Mustapha
enjoyed the
company of
his peers, he
enjoyed the job
and he relished
in all types of
weapons range
work. He was
tragically killed
in a vehicle
motor crash in
March 2015.
training around some specific IT areas, but other
than that I am not a hugely ‘techy’ guy.
In your words, what are the
benefits of people joining and
partaking in The Hub?
To me, The Hub is a massive step forward for the
NZDF, in terms of staying involved. It’s a place
for all of us to be able to stay engaged with the
wider Defence Force, and a place to have our
thoughts heard. The ability to stay connected
with commanders, colleagues, friends and other
members of the NZDF, when and where you want
to, is a huge improvement. Just by following
WO1 Douglas and WO1 Vooght, I’ve heard more
about what is happening in 1 (NZ) Brigade and TRADOC in the SPR Callum MacErlich
last couple of months then I have since I joined.
Realistically, we know a lot of Army and NZDF work is done
on the likes of Facebook, because there hasn’t been a place
for this to happen before. The Hub changes this and provides The Hub
a safe, secure and closed environment for us all to engage,
The Hub is an enterprise social network that has
share and learn, and if you haven’t signed up yet, flick the
been set up to help improve engagement and
team an email and get involved!
communication across the NZDF. It is a collaborative,
What challenges did you encounter in secure environment for current Defence personnel and
civilians, released members and trusted partners of
setting it up? the NZDF to engage, share and learn from each other.
The Hub has been described as a ‘game changer’, and with The Hub is based around ‘Chatter’ technology, and is
any change that big there are always going to be challenges. similar to a mix of Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, but
We’ve had some resistance from some parts of the NZDF, is just for the NZDF. Members can share their thoughts
but overall The Hub has been well supported. DRFYD, and experiences, interesting content, browse news
Army General Staff, QAMR, the Reserve Infantry Battalions and vacancies submitted by other members, respond
and some of the Schools in LOTC have been particularly to training, and stay up-to-date with what is happening
supportive. And there are always bugs in a new system, but within the wider NZDF community.
we’ve worked through the biggest ones already. If you haven’t signed up for The Hub yet, contact the
team at TheHub@nzdf.mil.nz. To get set up, you will
What are you doing (work or study-wise) now? need to provide your:
This year I’m finishing my science degree at Victoria
• Service number • Corps
University. At work, I’m looking forward to being able to
provide change like this in other organisations, as well as • Full name • Engagement type
continuing to help improve The Hub. Watch this space for the • Rank (Regular or Reserve)
new features!
‘MENTORING – BE THE DIFFERENCE’
Want to know more about how to be a better mentor?
Would you like to learn real mentoring skills?
The Army Leadership Forum 2016 – FORUM16 will be held 13−15 June. FORUM16 will
be hosted by AMPLIFY (the NZ Army Women’s Development Steering Group) and the
Army Leadership Centre at the Silverstream Retreat in Upper Hutt.
The theme for FORUM16 is “Mentoring – be the difference”. It is designed to
enhance the awareness and understanding of mentoring skills, and how mentoring
can develop and support women, and to encourage diversity in the NZ Army. It is
being conducted with support from the Army Leadership Centre, which is developing
the Army Mentoring Programme.
Our intent is to target our junior leaders and their sponsors (ie, the ‘participant
pair’) and provide a practical learning environment focused on mentoring. This will
be achieved primarily through the conduct of four skills-based workshops, dynamic
guest speakers, and opportunities for group discussion and personal reflection. The
forum aims to provide opportunities for our people to engage in diverse discussions
on the topics of mentoring and women’s development.
We want NZ Army’s junior leaders (LCPL−SGT, LT−CAPT and civilian equivalent) to
attend. If you are interested, please talk to your commander now!
Nominations for FORUM16 should be made in pairs (ie, participant pairs).
Participant pairs should include a junior leader (ie, LCPL–SGT/2LT – CAPT/Civ) and
a senior sponsor (any rank). Your sponsor does not have to be from your chain of
command, and does not have to be your mentor. Similarly, they need not necessarily
be uniformed staff. The intent of the forum is not to form ‘mentoring pairs’, and
instead to focus on developing understanding and skills that will enhance the NZ
Army’s mentoring capability in the long term.
Nominations are open now and will close 29 April 16.
All attendees are required to complete the nomination form to gain command
clearance, and for administration purposes.
For further information please contact your commander in the first instance, or
email @AMPLIFY Committee to request a copy of the admin instruction.
We look forward to seeing you in June!
 armyPEOPLE13 issue 471 | april 2016

Super, savings and advice Debbie Francis

Chief People Officer, New Zealand Defence Force
Personnel have access to no longer accepting new members. “It’s an interactive site
some of the best Debbie Francis is the interim Chief People
“I urge them to also consider the new NZDF schemes.” which has officer for the
everything on it.
She also has her eyes on the 650 personnel who are not in It’s great because it targets
Defence Force personnel and their families have access any scheme New Zealand
attracting Defence
an employer Force.
contribution. Those people families and they can look
to some of the best superannuation and saving schemes, may be missing out on a portion of their total remuneration. at the material any time
and financial advice in New Zealand, but too few are “People have to make up their own mind about their they like.
taking advantage of it, according to Chief People Officer Debbie
financial futures, ispersonnel
but all currently a partner
are urged in the
to get along “There are some really
Debbie Francis. to the secondPricewaterhouseCoopers
round of roadshows, which has just New Zealandpowerful
started. (PwC)tools consulting
on there, like
There were just 900 people signed up to NZDF KiwiSaver Financial advisers are also available to provide advice across the retirement simulator.
and NZDF FlexiSaver, at January 2016. The savings schemes a broad rangepractice, with a specialisation
of money matters/issues in people management and
including the best “I’d like to encourage
were launched last October, and were followed by the first organisational transformation in public
investment option for members.” sector
people to sitcontexts.
down with their
round of roadshows. These went to all bases and camps, “The roadshows are open to families as well as to
attracting 3270 people to 76 presentations. Debbie joined PwC in 2006, after four years as Chief
personnel, and the challenge is to get people to take this
partner and do it together at
CPO Debbie Francis
home because there’s some
But those numbers represent only a small proportion of material homeExecutive
with them andof the Correspondence
discuss it.” School, where she
really useful stuff there.
NZDF personnel. Information about the roadshows and the KiwiSaver and
“Having 3270 people turning up to the roadshows is good
managed its financial recovery,
FlexiSaver schemes are on the recently established Force
designed“Wenew service
want to encourage delivery
all and funding
our people – either regular or reserve forces, or civilians –
but it means there’s a further 11,000 people out there who models,
Financial Hub, which candeveloped its culture
be accessed through and
the Force 4 secured stakeholder support for the strategic
to use this resource, not just for themselves but also for their
missed out on seeing our latest offerings because they were Families page on the Defence Force website.
overseas, unavailable at that time, or didn’t see any benefit
repositioning of the School. Debbie
The Hub is a one-stop-shop of information where personnel
leads PricewaterhouseCoopers’
families. central
We’ve made it internet-based because we want
families to be able to access it anytime they want.
for them or their families,” says Mrs Francis. government,
and their families can access a justice
wide range sector and Maori business market groups with
of products,
“The same goes for the signups to KiwiSaver and FlexiSaver. services, benefits and tools – from superannuation, financial “We’re building it bit by bit as we roll out more benefits.
We want people joining at a faster rate. These are schemes
responsibility also for internal people management
advice, insurance, and wills. Personnel can access their
for PwCtheconsulting
“Late in 2014 we introduced MIBP insurance packages for
that provide great benefits for savings and retirement. account through the site to get updates on their savings and life, illness, income protection, and trauma where staff can get
enable them to check their insurances. discounted rates, and later this year we expect to be adding
“Of course, there are a lot of personnel who are already in From 2000 - 2003, Debbie worked as part of the Ministry of Education
other insurances such as house, contents, vehicle and travel.”
other schemes including KiwiSaver and the Defence Force Mrs Francis says the hub is a valuable resource that is
Superannuation Scheme, which is still running, although it’s Consultant Tertiary Advisory Monitoring
simple to use. Unit where she project managed of
www.nzdf.mil.nz/families/financial-hub
the first national Tertiary Education Sector Strategy and Tertiary Reform Bill, a
The retirement simulator • It showsmajor
you the review of what
gap between tertiary education sector governance,
Wills can savegovernance
anguish and anddelay –
you’ve got now and what you’re going
How much money do you think you will need when management training for the Tertiary Advisory
to need to have for a lump sum that will
you canMonitoring
get one for Unit, and a variety
free!
you retire? give youof
theroles working
lifestyle you want.with public institutions Defence
at risk.Force personnel and their families have access
Use the retirement simulator to estimate the budget you “It’s a very powerful tool and we’re to free wills and a discounted power of attorney.
require to provide you with a comfortable retirement. encouraging people to use it. We’re not Chief People Office Debbie Francis says on average 15
• You will be asked to set an income that will give you a She was
making decisions also– Deputy
for people we’re givingChief Executive UCOL NZDFfrom 1995-2000,
personnel die each year,Strategy
and aroundManager
half of them
comfortable lifestyle upon retirement. them the tools to make their own decisions.
• Taking into account rates, insurances, electricity bills
Lincoln University 1994-1996, was an Author/Editor for Reed Publishing from
Only they know what’s best for them and
don’t have an up-to-date will.
“The sad thing is that within this organisation the
etc, it factors in National Superannuation, and helps their family.”1984-1994. Ms Francis was also Head ofmean
– CPO Debbie Francis Department
age of deathsat Papanui
is 30, and manyHigh
peopleSchool,
don’t have
you calculate the lump sum you’re going to need to
have invested upon retirement, which you can draw
Rangi
the Force Financial Hub.
Ruru Girls School from
The retirement simulator is able to be accessed through
1980 - 1994.
wills because they don’t think they’re going to die at
that age.
down for your desired income. www.nzdf.mil.nz/families/financial-hub “Many also think they have nothing to leave, but
Debbie holds a Bachelor of Arts (Politicalthey Science/Classics/History) University
actually have $300,000 of life insurance providedof
through NZDF. Having a current will can help prevent
Making your money work “We usuallyCanterbury
get 20-25 people1979,
to theseasorts
Diploma
of things,in
andTeaching
we (Distinction)
problems occurringChristchurch
with distribution ofTeachers’
this insurance
College 1980, and a Master of Public Policy (Prime Minister’s Prize) Victoria
had 70-80 people in each location who wanted to be part of it. and the rest of the estate.
Making your money work for you and your family is the aim “This is simply about trying to build people’s financial savvy.” “Dying without a will causes additional stress and
of NZDF’s new Financial Capability Programme, which will be University 1996.
The programme is all about a combination of information, distress for families because without a will it can take up
rolled out across camps and bases from early this year. skill development and tools, with participants sharing their to a year to work through the legal processes of settling
The programme is based on pilot programmes run at experiences. It’s a weekly modular programme and people an estate.
Linton, HMNZS Philomel, and Whenuapai towards the end Debbie is married to Lindsay, and together
have a bit of homework to do between each session, but
they have six children.
“Not having a will creates significant risk for the
of last year, using material and facilitators supplied from Debbie Francis says most will see the advantages. deceased’s family; the household bills still have to be
the Commission for Financial Capability, an independent “None of this is about us making decisions on peoples’ paid even when someone is dead.
Government agency. behalf – they have to make their own decisions – but it’s “We want everyone to think about the impact that
The free, voluntary programme helps personnel and their about us providing tools so people can make better decisions dying without a will could have on their family, having
partners to build their financial capability. It covers a range of for themselves and their families.” to grapple with paying the bills and everything else on
issues, such as setting financial goals; getting control of your Here are three examples: top of the stress of your death, when there may be up to
money; helping you understand the true cost of credit; getting a year before the money starts flowing.”
• True cost of credit: if people have credit cards with
the best out of KiwiSaver, and using it to buy a first home. Debbie Francis says during the recent superannuation
huge balances they may not fully understand the cost
Chief People Officer Debbie Francis says NZDF got some of them. The programme will give them information so presentations at Ohakea, Linton and Waiouru, some
very good feedback from the pilot programmes. After doing they understand what’s going on and what they can do to 230 personnel signed up for a new will.
some fine-tuning, they hope to be able to roll the programme manage better and reduce debt. “Hopefully the message is starting to get through.”
out from late February.
• KiwiSaver to buy the first home: for many NZDF personnel, Details on how to access the free wills are on the Force
“We detected a big appetite for this. There was very positive KiwiSaver is how they could get into their first home, but Financial Hub.
feedback from participants. many don’t understand how that works or how to best to
use KiwiSaver and government grants for buying a first
home. The programme is designed to explain that.
Advisory service • Financial goal setting: the programme helps people set
financial goals such as establishing education funds for
Personnel on each base and camp and their families can
their children, or purchasing a vehicle.
now get access to free or discounted financial advice.
The Financial Advisory Service has been in place since
October and enables personnel and their families to Starting young
talk to an ‘authorised’ financial adviser on anything
from investment options for KiwiSaver, the Defence From this year, new recruits will
Force Superannuation Scheme, FlexiSaver, transferring receive a five-hour programme
overseas pensions, and insurances. An adviser is covering the benefits of
allocated to each camp and base. superannuation, insurance,
Personnel wanting a comprehensive financial plan wills, financial advice, and
or advice on more complex issues (for example, tax financial capability concepts.
or investment properties) are required to pay, but at a The programme also stresses the importance of
discounted rate. getting advice from professional advisers to help make
Contact details for the financial advisers are on the decisions, and introduces basic financial capability
Force Financial Hub. concepts.
14armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016
Doing his bit
Lieutenant Dwain Hindriksen,
platoon commander for
Takrouna Platoon, Auckland
Northland Company, 3/6
RNZIR, spends approximately
five months of the year
deployed overseas with his
civilian employer, World
Vision New Zealand (WVNZ).
WVNZ partners with communities for long-term development
projects, and provides emergency relief and assistance to
people affected by disasters.
LT Hindriksen is responsible for managing WVNZ’s
humanitarian and emergency response work. His work has
taken him across the world, from South Sudan, Ethiopia
and the Middle East, to Afghanistan, Nepal, South-East
Asia and all the way back down to Papua New Guinea, the
Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. He leads teams implementing
humanitarian relief projects, overseeing budgeting,
procurement of vehicles and stores, liaising with other
stakeholders, and managing and tracking the distribution of
relief items in operational areas.
He says he didn’t get into his line work as a ‘bleeding heart’,
but he does have a strong sense of justice and desire to get
the mission done.
helped him to build trust with communities.
When travelling down the river Nile for a few weeks in South
“If I see people in need and I’ve been given a mission to
help them, it’s a job to get done. Of course, I get satisfaction
Sudan, LT Hindriksen describes the challenge of “operating
on the smell of an oily rag”, sleeping in makeshift camps
from that.” beside the river, having meagre rations of maize paste,
Understanding the nuances of human behaviour makes offal, beans and rice, and seeing his team growing in these
LT Hindriksen strong yet humble leader. Drawing on his life challenging conditions.
experience, anthropology studies, as well as some of the The mission was to meet with communities along the route,
skills he has gained in the Army Reserve, he enters extremely and triage which communities were in greatest need of
challenging environments with confidence that he and his humanitarian support, in key areas such as sanitation and
team can achieve their mission. nutrition. He enjoyed the challenge of trying to keep morale
“When you scratch the surface and see the high in a very demoralising environment.
interconnectedness between human behaviours and “If I’m there to lead a team, I need to lead by example.
attitudes, that’s when you can really start to understand Failure is not an option; so many people are depending on us
what’s going on.” to get the job done. You gain respect from your team and from
Shortly after receiving his commission in 2011, LT others in the way you conduct yourself, whether it be sharing
Hindriksen deployed to Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, your spare kai, getting the first aid kit out and treating an
for two years. It was his first overseas posting with WVNZ, injury a team member may have picked up, or in the way you
and it required him to develop his job skills quickly. It speak to people. I’m not just some foreign guy coming in and
helped that the NZDF had left a positive impression with the trying to tell people how to live their lives. I’m just trying to
Bougainvillian population, after its truce monitoring and do my bit.”
peacekeeping mission, Operation Bel Isi, in the 1990s and LT Hindriksen is grateful that the Army Reserve understands
early 2000s. the demands of his civilian role. He says it is the little things
LT Hindriksen said this gave him a positive point of about being in the Army that help him operate on a daily
reference when meeting with communities and − combined basis in these difficult environments, whether it’s self-
with a relatable, laid-back, and hardworking Kiwi attitude − discipline or lateral thinking.
 armyPEOPLE15 issue 471 | april 2016

Scouting out the good bloke

results are going to be, they get right into it.
You get to meet a lot of good He says he is often asked about his job by the youth he
works with.
sorts in the New Zealand “Scouts ask me all the time about Army. And we have

Army, thanks to the nature of more girls joining Scouts these days than boys, which is
interesting. These are kids that love being outside doing fun

service and C3I. things.”

At 1 NZ Brigade, in Linton, one of those good sorts is
Corporal Iggy Kearns. He spends a lot of his time teaching
kids the life skills that could possibly, one day, save
their lives.
CPL Kearns’s two main projects are Scouts and the Red
Cross initiative in Manawatu, Rise Up.
“I’ve been involved in Scouting for about seven years,
I think. I started when my oldest boy got involved; I was
dobbed in to do it by his mum.
“I was asked to help and next thing I had a scarf and was
then the leader and so on.”
Although he might have been railroaded at the time, CPL
Kearns relishes the time he spends helping out. He says that
while he teaches the youngsters, they are teaching him a
few things too.
There are eight Scout groups in Palmerston North,
including CPL Kearn’s Kairanga group.
“There are actually a lot of Army parents involved in
Scouting, which is great because the skills we have are
invaluable and the way we learn how to teach people.”
Some of those skills have helped save lives. One night,
CPL Kearns taught a group of Scouts what to do in a car
accident. Two months later, two of the Scouts were in a
crash with their mother and they were able to do the right
things, getting their injured mother out of the car when the
car caught on fire.
“They were 11 and 14 years old.”
But CPL Kearns reckons Army people could learn a lot from
the kids too.
“Doing Scouts stuff would be really good for Junior NCO
training, as Scouts are taught the same way soldiers are
taught. If you can teach kids you can teach anyone. It’s hard
to get things past them that don’t work.”
CPL Kearns says kids like to be challenged in different
ways. As long as they have a purpose and know what the
CPL Kearns’s other personal commitment is the Red Cross
initiative in Manawatu, called Rise Up.
Rise Up is about helping young people who are having
issues in their life. The youth may have been bullied, or have
had something bad occur in their lives, such as losing a
parent.
“When you have a little girl tell you how she held her dad’s
hand when he died, or a boy describe doing CPR on his dad
in the driveway − it puts a lot into perspective.
“You get talking to them and sharing stories and being in
this uniform they find you approachable.”
It’s plain to see the kids make an impact on CPL Kearns,
but he obviously makes an impact on them too.
He says often he’ll get calls from the organisers asking if
he’s coming to a reunion because someone wants to catch
up with him again, after a year.
“Kids remember the Army guy and want to see the Army
guy again. It’s quite humbling.”
CPL Kearns says people just need a few life qualifications
to get involved, and being a nice person and being able to
listen and empathise with them helps too.
“It’s a buzz helping kids and seeing the look on their faces
when you teach them something as simple as tying a knot or
their shoelaces.
“Giving them challenges and letting them think ahead and
think for themselves. Some kids don’t have those people in
their lives that can teach them that stuff.”
When they come back to you and tell you how they’ve Scouts has an interesting history; it evolved from
employed the things you’ve taught them in their every day boys assisting the British in the defence of Mafeking
life, it’s a real buzz. Township during the Boer War. The British Commander
was so inspired by these boys he later set up the first
He says that when you think you’ve helped someone when
Scout-type camp in 1907, with 20 boys. There are
they were feeling really dark, it’s incredibly rewarding.
now more than 16,000 (age five – 18) Scouts in New
“Recently I saw a boy in the paper getting honoured for Zealand, both boys and girls, and over two million
something he’d done, and he was a kid from the first camp Scouts worldwide.
who had been bullied at school. That must have given him
To find your local Scout group go to scouts.org.nz
huge confidence. He was a hard working kid.”

5th Movements
Company reunion
Dates: 10−11 June 2016
Location: Linton Military Camp
POC: WO2 Mark Sullivan-Jones
DDI: (06) 351 9611
Mobile: 027 371 7501
Email: mark.sullivan-jones@
nzdf.mil.nz
Returns to POC by 27 May 16
16armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016

First World war centenary

Speech winner wows judges

Secondary student Stephanie
Simpson’s passionate speech
on the experience of nurses at
Gallipoli won her a trip to the
peninsula for Anzac Day.
The 18-year-old Marlborough Girls’ College student took
top honours in the national final of the 2016 ANZ RSA Cyril
Bassett VC Speech Competition, beating seven other Year
12 and 13 regional finalists.
The students spoke on the subject of ‘New Zealanders in
World War I’. Stephanie focused on the experiences of nurses
on hospital ships, by imagining herself at Gallipoli
in 1915.
“I did as much research into the experience and history
of the nurses as I could; I really tried to put myself into that
situation and imagine what they must have faced. A lot of
them would have been about the same age as me when they
went to war,” said Ms Simpson.
During her speech in Wellington, she spoke of 32-year-old
nurse Evelyn Brooke, matron of the ship Maheno, which
sailed to Gallipoli in April 1915. The ship was anchored just
half a mile from the firing line.
“The gunfire created such fierce vibrations that the ship
itself shook. A man-made quake to rattle even the ocean.
Could I have remained as composed and compassionate as
the injured flooded in?
“One sterilising room, one anaesthetising room, two It pays tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC (1892–1983) – the only
operating theatres, just 14 nurses and 500 new casualties New Zealander at Gallipoli to be awarded the Victoria Cross,
every day. No time to rest. The air thick with suffering. and one who worked his entire non-wartime career for the
Organised chaos. Overcrowded, suffering. Bedlam. Bloody. ANZ Group.
Horrible. And yet Evelyn continued to lead her stoic nurses,
RSA National President BJ Clark said the competition “was
even accompanying further campaigns in France and Flanders.
She knew what to expect. Doing work of love and mercy.” a wonderful example of young New Zealanders honouring the
legacy of those who came before them”.
Ms Simpson will be having a very different experience on the
peninsula. She is delivering her winning speech at Gallipoli for “These students have paid a powerful tribute to the Anzac
the 2016 Anzac Day commemorations. Her prize also included a spirit, and those who exemplified the values of courage,
$1000 travel fund, trophy, laptop computer and digital camera. commitment, compassion and comradeship, in the service
The competition, now in its sixth year, is a partnership they gave and sacrifices they made. Many of those who
between ANZ and the RSA, to promote a deeper fought and died in the conflicts the contestants have spoken
RSA National Vice President Bukit Hill, Stephanie
understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by about were the around the same age as those on stage,
Simpson and ANZ Regional Manager Peter Price.
those who served New Zealand in armed conflicts overseas. which makes this doubly poignant.”

Anzac history
sparks interest
By Charlene Smart, Senior Communications Advisor
(South), Defence Public Affairs
Burnham soldiers are set to receive replica Princess Mary
gift boxes thanks to children from Windwhistle School, in the
Canterbury district of Rakaia.
The year 3−6 class at Windwhistle School has been
learning about our Anzac history, and New Zealand soldiers’
endeavours and sacrifices during war.
Windwhistle School teacher Kathy Mehrtens said the
school devoted the first term to learning about Anzac history,
discussing the concepts of freedom, democracy, fairness and
equity.
“The term ended with the children putting on a full Anzac
service for the local community, complete with the Army and
RSA in attendance, a bugler, an Army address and roll of
honour being read,” she said.
During the Anzac studies, Mrs Mehrtens read about the
Princess Mary gift boxes which were sent in World War One,
and thought it would be a good idea for the children to do
something similar for our soldiers.
“I was looking for a way
that the students could be
hands on with something
practical and a way that they
could connect with their
wider community, including
the Army,” she said.
In 1914, close to 2.7 million
soldiers and sailors were
Back (L–R): Rosa Bell, Kelsey Bell, Jasmine Gannon, George Daly, Georgie Veronese
sent a Princess Mary Gift
Middle (L–R): Emily Richards, Emma Richards, Tahu Walker, Abhisha Raju
box. Princess Mary wanted
Front (L–R): James Miers, Max Bell, Alex Bell, Fergus Daly
‘every sailor afloat and every
soldier at the front’ to be
sent a small gift. The original learn about Anzac history, so we don’t forget the soldiers who
brass boxes contained things such as tobacco and chocolate sacrificed their lives so we could live in peace and freedom”.
and were intended for those serving overseas at Christmas The boxes will be presented to 13 Burnham soldiers. The
time in 1914. boxes contain small mementos and letters from the students
The students enjoyed learning about this history of Anzac. about their learnings about Anzac.
Emma, aged eight, said, “If we didn’t learn about Anzac, we The students have also written letters to our deployed
wouldn’t know what they did for us, we wouldn’t remember”, soldiers who, they hope, will enjoy reading about the goings
and Georgie, aged nine, said, “I think it is very important we on at the small rural school.

Part-time provides dad
with perfect balance
Captain Jeremy Seed’s part-time roles at NZDF have given
him “total flexibility”, allowing him to balance the needs of
his family, and his own health, alongside stimulating work
projects. He says there’s been a “sea change” from when he
first joined the Army, nearly 30 years ago.
For Project Officer CAPT Seed, a reservist, what could have
been a negative experience – an unexpected redundancy
– actually led to the perfect balance between work and
family life.
In 2012, his private sector employer was ‘restructured’,
and his senior communications role was removed. He
had a choice between taking a lesser-paid role, and
redundancy.
Then, as chance would have it, “the same week as the
redundancy was put on the table, we found out that we
were to become foster parents.
“So the planets aligned, and it was quite obvious that
I was going to be the primary caregiver. So I took the
redundancy money and became a full-time dad.”
CAPT Seed finished his Masters in International Relations
at Victoria University while his eldest son, who came to
them aged four, attended preschool. He was able to do
preschool pick-ups and drop-offs while his wife continued
working full-time.
After finishing his study, he took a part-time position
in the Directorate of Reserve Forces, Youth Development.
He then worked for HCP, Heritage Commemoration
and Protocol, as they prepared for Anzac Day 2015, its
centennial year.
“The beauty of working for HCP was that it was time-
sheeted – so I only got paid for the hours I worked, but
there was total flexibility. If something was happening at
my son’s school or I needed to do something, I could say
‘I won’t be in today but I’ll be in tomorrow’, or ‘I will do
Soldiers, have you considered
becoming an officer?
extra hours on a day when he’s at his grandparents’ –
I had total flexibility.”
When he was requested for a project in Capability
Branch, he told them he needed to work school hours.
“They said, ‘that’s fine – the concept of the 9–5 workday
is ancient history’. I was impressed, because that’s a very
forward-looking attitude; it’s a very modern and intelligent
attitude. I first joined the Army in 1988, and I think it would
be fair to say that you wouldn’t expect to have found that
attitude in 1988 – there’s been a real ‘sea change’. There’s
been a lot of talk about flexible workplaces and that
thinking is now reality.”
CAPT Seed has only recently returned from three
months’ parental leave, bonding with their second son,
a 20-month-old boy who came to them through
CYF’s “Home for Life” programme towards the end of
last year. He said he didn’t expect his leave request to
be granted.
Because it is permanent foster care, rather than adoption
or birth, new parents currently have no paternity or
maternity rights under law. While that anomaly is set
to change this year, NZDF decided to “get ahead of the
curve”, making CAPT Seed the first public servant to be
granted paid paternity leave for permanent foster care.
He said he can imagine someone saying, “it’s because
you’re an officer, mate”, but CAPT Seed – who spent most
of his time in the Army as an OR – said “it’s all about
having useful skills”.
Capability Branch needed someone with a good
armyPEOPLE17 issue 471 | april 2016
understanding of the difference between the public and
private sectors – and CAPT Seed, with his extensive
experience in the private sector, ticked their boxes.
He finishes just after 2pm each day, to collect his younger
son from daycare, and his older son from school. But with
mobile technology, he can always be contacted. So, are
there any downsides to part-time work?
“Well, of course, with part-time work you get part-time
money. But you make up for that in other ways. We feel
that our son gains more from me picking him up from
school; his needs are far better met by me being there.
And I like to take him to after-school activities. There is a
bigger picture.”
We are taking internal applications for Army officers.
To be considered, complete aptitude testing for
Army officer through your local recruiting office
and submit an AFNZ413D through your chain of
command:
» NLT 27 May for consideration for the
11−15 July Officer Selection Board
» NLT 26 August 16 for consideration for the
26−30 September OSB
» NLT 28 October 16 for consideration for the
5−9 December OSB
Your unit should:
1. Arrange B90 testing through your local recruiting
office.
2. Forward your AFNZ413D and copies to:
a. Major Nik Hill
Director Recruiting (Army)
Defence Recruiting Organisation
Level 2, Freyberg House
P.O. Box 39997
WELLINGTON 5045
b. MCM, Army GS (Attn: CCM: To note and file on PF)
c. UPF
3. Forward your Command Notebook (hardcopies
if stored electronically) with the AFNZ413D to
Defence Recruiting, Attn: DRec (A).
18armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016

success
Success can be defined on so many different levels,
and in just as many contexts. Success to one person
may not be success to another. Success is what
you (the individual) value it to be. That said, WO1
Dawn Boxer posed two questions to three service

What does it take? personnel who have absolutely achieved success,

certainly in their profession of arms.

W/O Toni Tate is the Warrant Officer
of Joint Force Headquarters and
reports to the Commander HQJFNZ.
She is a principal member of the
Warrant Officer Leadership Forum
to step outside your comfort zone and learn something
different or work in a new environment; like John Wayne, said,
“courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway”.
WO1 Alie Henry, outgoing RSM of
3 CSS Bn, incoming RSM OP FARAD
daughter says to me, “You are married to the Army
Mum”. She is right, I am passionate about what I do in
the NZDF; however, I also cherish the time that I spend
with my family and I do not take this for granted. A day
out with the family leaves me refreshed and ready to
approach the next day with a clear head. I encourage
you to include your family in mess and/or unit activities,
take regular breaks − find that balance.

(WOLF) along with SMA, WON, (May 2016 rotation)

WOAF and WODF.
How does an individual set themselves up for
success?
The first thing to consider here is “What does success look
like to you?” Success will look differently to everyone, and
may relate to professional success in your job or personal
success outside of work. The next thing to identify is how to
measure success, whether it is getting that dream posting,
gaining a promotion, deploying, completing training, or
finishing a project or a sporting achievement. I would
recommend that your defined success is attainable! Set your
goals, work towards them and believe in yourself. Know
yourself… know what you are good at and what you need to
work on. Put your energy into the right areas, in order
to succeed.
What ‘tools’ would you recommend, if people
want to become successful?
We are lucky to be part of an organisation that provides
several professional development tools such as leadership
courses and forums, study options and one of the most
powerful tools: mentoring. Whether you have an official
mentor or not, there is usually someone who can provide
you with advice and support. I believe that networking and
engaging with others is a very powerful tool and I encourage
you to expand your networking outside of your service. Key
relationships and connections across the NZDF are vital to
success as an individual and as One Force. Have the courage
How does an individual set themselves up for
success?
As a LCPL, I was directed to assist with a TF Recruit intake
at TAD. I had not completed a JNCO course and had very
little instructional experience. I felt underprepared and
anxious heading to Waiouru. The four-week recruit intake
was a turning point in my career/life. I was surrounded by
competent, confident and professional trainers. I enjoyed
being a positive influence on the recruits, sharing operational
experiences and teaching them effective basic soldiering
skillsets. I enjoyed it so much that I requested a posting
to TAD as a CPL; the flow on from this posting has been a
number of postings in the training/regimental environment.
Lesson learnt: sometimes you have to step outside your
comfort zone to realise your true potential. Opportunities not
taken are opportunities missed.
What ‘tools’ would you recommend for
people to be successful?
Three things:
1. You have to be passionate about what you do.
2. Our people have strengths in different areas; it’s
about taking the good from a wide range of people
and applying it to what you do. I encourage each and
every one of you to adopt a small number of mentors,
communicate with them and bounce ideas off them
because often problems shared are problems solved.
3. My last piece of advice is around work/life balance. My
WO1 Wai Cross, Career Manager
RNZSigs/NZDF MP/NZSAS/NZIC
posted to RSM RNZSigs (June 16)
How does an individual set themselves up
for success?
What is success? Is it buying your first home, your first car,
securing your first job, getting married, having your first
child or passing your exams? When you pass your first
promotion course are you successful, or is the individual
that topped the course the successful one? Or is success
defined by achieving an outcome that not everyone will
achieve; eg, RSM, CO, SMA, CA, WODF, CDF? And who
measures success? Is it your parents, your partner, your
children or your PDR? And what criteria are you measured
against? Someone else’s perceived success or your own?
After much thought, I can say this: Success is your own
life achievements and the measure of that success is how
content you feel when you look in the mirror. The tools you
use have been acquired throughout your life; good or bad,
they will define you as an individual. Choose the ones that
look like building blocks and not the ones made of sand.
Every day our people are being successful and doing
successful things, it is what the NZDF depends and thrives
on and it is what makes us one of the best organisations to
be a part of. The messages in this article are for you − so
saddle up, grab those opportunities, find that balance and
choose the right building blocks.
 armyPEOPLE19
issue 471 | april 2016

Book review

A Hidden Economy
Maori in the Privatised Military Industry
By Maria Bargh
Reviewed by CAPT Jeremy Seed
Most serving or former members of the NZ Army will know
one, or more, people who 717’ed and went ‘on the circuit’.
If you’ve ever looked into the nature of the business
in detail, you’ll know that there are a huge variety of
opportunities for almost anyone with any form of military
service, from the folks that fire guns to the folks who store,
move and fix them − there is a private sector job in or near
a war zone for anyone who has ever worn a uniform.
Maria Bargh is a senior lecturer in Maori Studies at
Victoria University. She first came to this subject when
she heard talk of people in the industry. Her curiosity
was piqued when she realised just how many Kiwis, and
specifically Maori, were involved; the wide range of tasks
they were performing; and just how much money could be
made. The book took a while to emerge as she had to find
people willing to talk about their experiences, which is no
easy task in a sector that prizes discretion.
Bargh approaches the subject in a clear and concise
manner, as you would expect from an academic. If you know
nothing of the subject this will all be fascinating stuff, but
even if you’re familiar with military contracting and the
world it inhabits, this will be of interest. The scene setting
and definitional work is followed by detailed, first-person
accounts by five Maori involved in logistics, security,
maritime contracting and company ownership.
The book concludes with a discussion of the contribution
these people can, and do, make to their communities,
by virtue of the money they earn and the expertise they
gain working in, what can be, a fast paced and dangerous
corporate environment where, as the saying has it, “Money
talks and BS walks”.
A Hidden Economy is thoroughly recommended, as much
for the Kiwi perspective applied to this phenomenon and
the analytical framework developed, as for the stories of the
individuals who have left whanau far behind and travelled to
the other side of the world to make a dollar, in the best way
they know how.

Unsung hero:
34755 Lieutenant Colonel John Nesbit Anderson,
DSO, MID
NZ Engineers

This article recognises the military career

and the gallantry of Lieutenant Colonel John
Anderson, an engineer officer who won the
Distinguished Service Order (DSO) during
the Second World War. It is published in
Army News with the approval of his family.

John Anderson was born in Okaihau, Northland, in 1894. in 1944, and OC Engineer Training
He worked as a county council engineer before joining Depot at Maadi Camp from January 1945.
the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) in the He was twice Mentioned in Despatches, and, in 1942, he
rank of temporary Captain on the 29th of June 1940. He received an immediate award of the Distinguished Service
served in engineer units throughout the Second World Order (DSO) for gallantry during the Battle of Minquar Qaim.
War, including 19 Army Troop Company NZE (1940–41), His medal citation read:
5 Field Park Company (1941–42) and 6 Field Company “Under the direction of Major Anderson, 4,000 mines were
(1942–43). In the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Anderson rapidly laid at Minquar Qaim on June 27 – a vitally protective
was Commander Royal Engineers (CRE) of 2nd NZ Division minefield – before the enemy reached the New Zealanders’
forward defence lines. In spite
of the intensity of the enemy
shelling of his parties and the
development of the attack, the
mines were rapidly laid. Where
the shelling was heaviest,
Major Anderson encouraged
his men, and he, himself,
fused the mines. One truckload
was exploded by enemy fire,
causing many casualties. When
mines had to be laid near the
burning ammunition truck, MAJ
Anderson, showing complete
disregard for his own safety,
carried them to the area. Just as
this work had been completed,
he moved a wounded man
to safety, and still under
particularly heavy and accurate
shell fire continued to direct the
work to completion.”
John Anderson died in Te
Awamutu in 1968, at the age
of 74.
Lest we forget.
20armyPEOPLE
issue 471 | april 2016

By Lieutenant Colonel Hamish Gibbons, Commanding

Officer, Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles

Taking key leaders out of

a unit for nine days is a
‘big ask’, so you need to
ensure it is a worthwhile
investment.
While whitewater kayaking was not my first choice for
an Army Leadership Centre Experiential Leadership
Development Activity (ELDA), in hindsight it definitely
achieves the goals of an ELDA. I now join the ranks of
those commanding officers who had previously done
an ELDA and speak very positively of the experience.
It was the best leadership development activity I
have attended whilst in the Army. And, as it was
done with the people I work with on a daily basis, it
was an incredibly relevant leadership and personal
development experience.
The ELDA combines a challenging outdoor pursuit
with a number of personality-type tools to provide the
opportunity for individuals to learn about themselves,
the group, and how to be a more effective leader. The
combination of the 360-degree report (superiors,
peers and subordinates), the Hogan’s Report, and the
team feedback highlighted each individual’s strengths
and weaknesses. Then, the kayaking took us out of
our comfort zone to bring out those strengths and
weaknesses. During the nine-day course, this process
was repeated a number of times, which reinforced our
learning. This could not have been achieved effectively
in a shorter timeframe, and so nine days proved about
spot on.
Whitewater ELDA – “best leadership
development activity I have attended
in the Army”
After completing the Challenge Phase of the course,
it was satisfying to discover that not only were we the
oldest and most senior group to have completed the
whitewater kayaking ELDA, we were one of only a few
groups in which everyone completed each day on the
river. The real challenge now is to take our ‘Keep-Stop-
Start’ strategies back to the workplace, and make the
changes we have identified. We have planned our first
follow-up meeting, to keep us honest to ourselves and
each other.
Key takeaways from the ELDA:
360-degree report: Spend some time choosing a
good number and a variety of ‘raters’. The more raters
you have, the more valid the feedback (I had 18). Also,
ask your raters to spend the time providing the written
comments as these are arguably more powerful than
the scale ratings.
Strengths and weaknesses: What we see as
our own strength and weaknesses can differ to what
everyone else sees. This can be both liberating and
challenging. Try and align the two, to focus our efforts
in the right areas.
ELDAs are a fantastic resource: The ELDA was
run to a superior standard, and the two instructors
(Dave Moore and Ashley Cheeseman) were superb.
Their subject matter expertise was first-class, they
facilitated the conversations excellently, kept us on
track, and were good people. I found that having
civilian instructors allowed the focus to remain
on the course goals − developing our intra-and
interpersonal awareness − so we didn’t just sink into
military/workplace discussions. I would encourage
any commander to make the time to get you and your
people away on an ELDA.
Ride the pony: Sometimes, when confronted with a
challenge, you just have to lean into it, paddle hard,
trust in your training, and trust that your mates will be
there if it goes wrong. Or as the instructors would say,
just accept it and ride the pony!
 armyTRAINING21 issue 471 | april 2016

2/1
top the
Skill at
Arms Eight units took part in the 1 (NZ) Brigade Skill At Arms (SAA)
in Waiouru, from 17–20 March. The competition involves
a series of physically and mentally challenging activities
that test leadership skills, military knowledge, physical
endurance and teamwork, and foster esprit de corps.
This year’s stands were: Results 2016:

Stand 1. All arms weapons testing 1 (NZ) Bde SAA Trophy:

Stand 2. Treatment and evacuation of casualties 1st 2/1 RNZIR

Stand 3. Battle collection (BC) and detainee handling 2nd QAMR
Stand 4. C-IED awareness 3rd 1 RNZIR
Stand 5. Call for fire 4th 3 CSSB
Stand 6. Erection of 50m CAT 1 Wire 5th 2 CSSB
Stand 7. Section quick attack 6th 2 ENGR REGT
Stand 8. Establish and maintain effective 7th 1 (NZ) SIG REGT
communications
8th 16 FD REGT
Stand 9. March and shoot
1 (NZ) Bde SAA Falling Plate Trophy:
Stand 10. Theory testing and AFV recognition
1st 2/1 RNZIR
Stand 11. Night navigation circuit
2nd 3 CSSB
Stand 12. Night shoot (conducted at the WTS)
3rd 2 ENGR REGT
Stand 13. The best chef (Novelty Stand, Not Scored)
4th 2 CSSB
Stand 14. Falling plate competition
5th QAMR
The teams walked approximately 54 km during the two days
of the competition, finishing up at Taylor Range for the Falling 6th 16 FD REGT
Plate competition on the third day.
Sources have unconfirmed reports that “Niner”, 2/1 RNZIR, 7th 1 (NZ) SIG REGT
was quoted as saying “the outcome was black & white, 8th 1 RNZIR
all day”.
22armyHEALTH AND SAFETY
issue 471 | april 2016

Train Safe
Train Safe Case Study 37 Train Safe Case Study 38

In all levels of conflict there will be a requirement for officers and soldiers to kill or Cold weather can complicate operations. With freezing rain, fog, hard frosts, snow and
capture an enemy with firepower. The flexibility and effectiveness of the platoon or ice, and coupled with cold winds, the tempo of operations can slow down. Time becomes
section is enhanced if each one of us has the capability to use grenades. Grenades may be more critical and the effort required to overcome a hostile environment can sometimes
thrown, posted, or placed on a target in a number of ways. In battle, the method adopted be more urgent than defeating the enemy. Rapid changes in the weather can cause force
is unimportant, provided that the grenade is effective. To be effective, a grenade must elements to become isolated and therefore, self-sufficiency is critical.
explode as close as possible to its target or even, in the case of a trench, bunker, or building,
inside it. A knowledge of the various methods of throwing grenades enables us to achieve
the necessary accuracy of throw. A hand-thrown fragmentation grenade provides this
capability. It can be easily carried by an individual so that it is available for immediate use.
When used, however, the rest of us must be mindful of the ability to get into some form of
cover very quickly so that we are not compromised, injured, or even killed.

The Incident The Incident

xx A unit was conducting a live field firing high-eplosive (HE) grenade throw and posting
activity in the Tekapo Military Training Area.
xx The training included live-firing pairs fire and manoeuvre using both the IW Steyr and
the LSW C9.
xx During one of the pairs live-firing activity, a firer on the left provided covering fire while
a firer on the right threw an HE grenade at a target.
xx The grenade landed short of the target and at an angle to the left side of the firer and
safety supervisor.
xx When the grenade detonated, the firer on the left and the safety supervisor, also on
the left, both received shrapnel wounds.
xx A unit was conducting a confirmatory patrolling exercise in the overshoot zone east of
the Waiouru Military Training Area.
xx During the activity, the soldiers in one of the patrols had significant concern for a
soldier who was displaying the signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
xx The patrol halted for the night and decided to light a fire to provide warmth to, and dry
the personal clothing of the soldier at risk.
xx The at-risk soldier went to sleep and was lying quite close to the fire.
xx Another soldier on fire watch turned aside for about five minutes to collect firewood.
xx As a consequence, the clothing the sleeping soldier was wearing caught fire and the
soldier received burns to his body.

Facts Findings Facts Findings

xx The exercise was an approved activity.
xx All personnel who participated in the
activity were trained and qualified in
their specific roles.
xx Full safety briefings were given to all
personnel including the sequence of
the activity and a final battle brief.
xx Medical assistance was provided
immediately at the scene.
xx The area was cordoned off and the
activity halted for the investigation to
take place.
xx Injured personnel were transported to
a civilian hospital.
xx There was a direct path between the
grenades point of impact and the
personnel who were hit.
xx Due to the angle of the throw and
where it landed, natural and artificial
cover available was insufficient.
xx Although the firer on the left and the
safety supervisor had taken cover,
they were still exposed from cover to
the grenade.
xx The wooden walls constructed to
provide protection from fragmentation
were found to be of the incorrect
thickness.
xx There was no evidence that the
participants were inexperienced.
xx All safety staff and exercise
participants received a safety brief,
exercise orders, and an equipment and
clothing inspection.
xx The soldiers had tried other methods
to provide warmth, including body
heat, but were unsuccessful.
xx Communications with exercise control
(excon), although difficult, managed to
establish the extent of the injury and
excon deployed 2 x directing staff (DS)
and the exercise medic.
xx On arrival of the medic, the injury
was dressed and the soldier was
evacuated by foot and vehicle to the
Waiouru Medical Treatment Centre
(MTC), and after further treatment,
transferred to a civilian hospital burns
unit by helicopter.
xx All relevant policies and procedures
for the conduct of the exercise
were followed, including Casualty
Evacuation (CASEVAC).
xx Had a helicopter been deployed to
the exercise area, it was likely that
the weather would have affected its
effectiveness.
xx The military clothing and equipment
issued to exercise participants was
suitable and efficient for the weather
conditions at the time.
xx The injured soldier and others were
wearing non-issue under-clothing
shirts, with unproven fire retardant
qualities.
xx The non-issue undershirt melted to the
back of the soldier, which increased
the overall injury and hindered
treatment.
xx Although a clothing and equipment
inspection was done, non-issue
items of clothing were approved for
use by DS.

Conclusion – Fault Checking and Individual Responsibility
xx What do you think?
xx When firing over or around cover, personnel must understand the requirement to
shift body positions to afford complete protection when live hand grenades are used
in training.
xx When planning activities of this type, where grenades are to be thrown, planners must
ensure that all avenues for cover are considered in the event that a grenade lands in an
area other than that it was intended to land.
xx The injuries received by the two persons involved were relatively minor. They both
received medical attention and were released from the medical facility with no
anticipated long-term consequences.
Conclusion – Fault Checking and Individual Responsibility
xx What do you think?
xx Where preventing further heat loss in low temperatures will sometimes be ineffective,
we must always use commonsense, particularly if a decision is made to light a fire for
warmth, and to dry clothing.
xx When operating in low temperatures, a brief on the signs and symptoms of
hypothermia should be reemphasised to all exercise participants.
xx Safety around fires should be briefed to exercise participants, including restrictions
on non-issue clothing that has no proven fire retardant qualities.
xx The injuries sustained required a skin graft, and, follow-on care was ongoing and
provided by the civilian hospital burns unit.
xx With the appropriate care, there were no long-term effects that impaired the soldier’s
future service with the NZDF.

‘No matter how smart we may think we are, no matter

‘Lightning makes no sound until it strikes.’
how committed we are to our truth, we can lose our way.’
This case study is based on real events.
This case study is based on real events.
Some details have been omitted to protect privacy.
Some details have been omitted to protect privacy.
 armyPEOPLE23 issue 471 | april 2016

Stimulating intel work in the capital

Are you looking for “operationally-focused, relevant,
meaningful and intellectually-stimulating” work? Consider
a posting to the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre (JIFC)
in Wellington.
The JIFC provides “fused”, all-source intelligence support
to HQNZDF and designated NZDF operational units. “Fused”
means that various intelligence disciplines are combined
into products tailored to meet the command element’s
needs. This requires excellent command of the intelligence
analyst’s art, and the ability to combine disparate sources of
information into a meaningful, “value-added” product.
The JIFC provides support to HQJFNZ contingency planning
(including production of contingency support packages
as part of the South West Pacific Campaign Plan), and
reach back support to deployed force elements. The JIFC,
incorporating all intelligence disciplines, is able to provide
near real-time situational awareness of New Zealand’s
maritime domain.
Working at JIFC will expose you to the operational and
strategic levels of a joint, interagency and multinational
intelligence environment. We are located in Freyberg House,
which is close, by physical location and output, to the rungs
of national-level power and the international intelligence and wider professional
architecture. We work in close proximity to other government opportunities in
partners who are central to New Zealand political and military Wellington are plentiful,
decision-making. and the city provides
You will work in the military, wider government and non- a gateway to travel
governmental space, and your professional skill-set will throughout the country
develop accordingly. On any given work day, you will make and further afield.
valued contributions to longer-term analytical products or When JIFC analysts
assist with many varied and interesting short-notice and were recently
quick-production timeframe tasks. Overlaying this diversity, canvassed on what
you are required to maintain the core military competencies makes the unit a
that the NZ Army requires of its people – regular PT is good place to work,
encouraged, promotion and professional development the responses were brief
coursing is supported, and the maintenance of deployment and telling: “operationally-
criteria is a must. focused”, “relevant”, “meaningful”
Living in Wellington provides an experience that rivals the and “intellectually-stimulating work”, supported by access to
professional satisfaction of working at JIFC. Trentham Military all the necessary tools of the trade. For NZ Army intelligence
Camp is an easy 45-minute commute away from Wellington professionals who seek professional fulfilment within the
city, if you wish to use its accommodation. JIFC personnel of military and possibly beyond, all roads lead to Wellington.
all ranks also reside in Wellington and its immediate region If any of this resonates with you, then contact Captain Ross
– whether it is the vibrant, inner-city, young professional Fisher, JIFC XO, for a no-commitment discussion about future
suburb of Mt Victoria, or the picturesque Kapiti Coast. Social posting prospects to the JIFC.

hosted by the adaptive warfighting centre

Defence Engagement
Symposium
Building Partner Capacity

Thursday 12th May 2016

Warrant Officers & Sergeants Mess, Linton Military Camp
Register at AWC@nzdf.mil.nz
“Arguably the most important military component in the War On Terror is not the

defend and govern themselves”

- Robert Gates, United States Secretary of Defence, 2007

Wish to contribute? See yourself as a panel speaker?

Questions and enquiries to AWC@nzdf.mil.nz, Tel. 06 351 9578
AWC/ C- DSS Registry/Building 34/Linton Military Camp/Palmerston North 4820
24armySPORT
issue 471 | april 2016

Firefighters compete

Four Emergency Response Competition was fierce at the Nationals, with the Southbridge
Fire Brigade smashing two New Zealand records on day one.
Squadron (ERS) firefighters On day two, NZ Army took on the competition with some
impressive individual runs, including a personal best one
recently represented the minute, 57 second run from CPL Thomas Grant (4ERT), putting
him 10th overall in a field of more than 130 competitors.
NZ Army in the “toughest The NZ Army relay team faced off against the top three
brigades in New Zealand and through sheer determination
two minutes in sport” – the finished in third place, with a personal best time of one
minute, 26 seconds.
regional Firefighter Combat The individual run times also earned the NZ Army team third
place overall in the team aggregate category with a combined
Challenge in Wanganui. time of six minutes 21 seconds.
What an exceptional effort by our Fireys!
The United Fire Brigades Association’s Firefighter Combat
Challenge tests a firefighter’s physical and mental stamina Results
and willpower. The competition demands a high level of
fitness and a very specific skill base. It is regarded as Placing at
Name Regionals Nationals
arguably the toughest two minutes in sport. Nationals
The course takes between one minute 40 seconds and 10th CPL Thomas Grant 2:03 1:57
seven minutes 30 seconds to complete, depending on an
individual’s skill base, fitness level and pain tolerance. 16th CPL Daniel Klaassen 2:18 2:03
Competitors test their limits and sometimes push past them,
passing out from exhaustion just short of the finish line. 32nd LCPL Matthew Sadd 2:27 2:20
The course can be completed as an individual, tandem
39th SPR Alex McIver N/A 2:25
pair and team relay; this year, the NZ Army firefighters
competed in the individual and team relay categories, gaining 54th CPL Corey Telfer 2:48 2:31
a second place in the relay category with a time of one minute
29 seconds. 3rd NZ Army relay team 1:29 1:26
The team were then ready to take on the rest of the country
for the national event in Wellington in March. 3rd NZ Army aggregate N/A 6:21

TWIN PEAKS BATTLE TAB

16 JULY 2016
• Fastest Individual • Fastest Female Team
• Fastest Individual • 2/4 RNZIR Internal
Female Category:
Fastest Inter-
• Fastest Open Team
company Team
• Fastest Mixed Team

REGISTRATIONS CLOSE 29 APRIL 2016

FOR FURTHER ENTRY INFORMATION:
Twin Peaks Battle Tab M: 027 637 7894
2/4 RNZIR E: gareth.manson@
PO BOX 2045 nzdf.mil.nz
SOUTH DUNEDIN

SEE YOU ON THE STARTLINE


Inter-Services Cricket 2016
Inter-Services was played
once again at the home of the
North Shore Cricket Club OTP,
and hosted by the RNZN in
Devonport.
There was an NZDF Barbarians team, made up of spare
players from all three services and club members of
North Shore Cricket Club, including their resident English
professional.
The NZ Army lost both services games last year and, as a
result, finished third, which meant they had to play the RNZN
and the RNZAF back to back on Tuesday and Wednesday.
First up for the Army, was the RNZN. Navy won the toss and
sent the Army in to bat. At the first drinks break it seemed like
the right idea, with Army being 64 for 2. This trend continued
until the 30th over where Army were only on 120, but,
critically, only two wickets down. From that point on it was
entertaining to watch, and not much fun if you were a bowler
or a Navy supporter. The batters that were set really hit their
Ben Lints batting with Richard Woodhead against
Air Force.
Ryan Walmsley batting against the Barbarians, on his
way to 80.
straps and the total raced through to 338 for six at the end
of the 50 overs. Making a significant impact with the bat was
Ryan Walmsley, with 158 from 137 balls; Richard Woodhead
with 91 from 92 balls; and a quick fire 41 from the captain,
Rory Lorimer, off just 27 balls.
It was then Navy’s turn to bat and they managed to give
Army a real run for their money. Anyone would imagine that
338 would be a comfortable total to defend. Not when the
opening batter, George Blackmore, bludgeons 184 runs off 75
balls. Luckily for Army, they continued to take regular wickets
at the other end and, not surprisingly, regular runs as well.
Even after Army dislodged Blackmore, there was a period
where Navy were cruising to a relatively easy finish, needing
less than four runs an over with two wickets in hand. The
pressure from the Army bowlers finally paid off, they got the
last wicket with nine runs and 24 balls to spare. So a high-
scoring, high-stress and highly entertaining game finished
with Army winning by nine runs.
Bowlers who did the damage for Army were: Scott
MacGibbon, two for 51 from nine overs, and Rory Lorimer
with four for 74 from 9.2 overs. Ben Lints took two catches
and Jesse Voice and Dougald Munro both took their first
wicket for Army.
As a result of last year’s third place, Army played the RNZAF
on day two. With a win on day one against Navy, the Army
had a chance to take the Bill Morley Trophy with a win over
the Air Force.
Army won the toss and decided to bowl first and put the
pressure on Air Force early. There were solid bowling and
fielding efforts throughout, and Army managed to take
regular wickets and limit the Air Force’s ability to put together
any strong partnerships. Finally, getting the Air Force all out
for 223 in the 47th over.
Once again, Rory Lorimer bowled well and finished with
three for 40 from nine overs, Jesse Voice chipped in with
three for 27 from nine overs, and Terry Horne and Ben Lints
managed two wickets each, as well. Nick Redfearn and Trent
Morrell had a good day with the hands taking two and three
catches each, respectively.
Army started the chase well, getting through to the 9th
over before it all went wrong. Air Force’s first change bowler,
Chris Turkington, came in and ripped the guts out of the Army
batting attack. It all started with a triple wicket maiden (three
wickets and no runs in the over) and after he finished three
overs he had five wickets for 11 runs and the NZ Army innings
was in tatters at 58 for five, after 16 overs.
Army managed a fight back that gave them a sniff, with
solid partnerships from Richard Woodhead and Ben Lints,
with 42 runs, and Scott MacGibbon and Ben Lints, with
64 runs.
But, unfortunately, losing your 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th batters,
all for ducks, makes it a little tough. Army ending up losing by
44 runs in the 45th over.
Notable performances with the bat were Richard Woodhead
with 46 (65 balls), Scott MacGibbon making 51 (42 balls), and
Ben Lints being the rock of the innings, with 22 from 85 balls.
For the third game, NZ Army were playing a selection of
Services players that formed the Barbarians side. The side
armySPORT25 issue 471 | april 2016
opted to make a few changes IOF a few lads to get their
pockets and Baggy Reds. This may have made the side a little
weaker, but all players selected for the team were expected
to play and perform well.
Army was sent into bat and struggled along, to be all out
in the 49th over for 213. Ryan Walmsley managed another
solid knock with 80 runs (107 balls) and Rory Lorimer with 29
runs (34 balls). Performers with the ball for Barbarians were
two guys from Army: Mike Clulow with three wickets and Ben
Lints with one.
The Barbarians started the chase very well and only lost
their first wicket with 93 runs on the board in the 13th over.
They completed their chase of 213 runs in the 30th over
with 7 wickets in hand. Starring with the bat was an English
semi-professional player from the North Shore Cricket Club,
who scored 94 runs from 51 balls. Ryan Walmsley and Casey
Goldsbro were the pick of the Army bowlers, taking two and
one wickets respectively.
A loss, but it was a good day playing cricket, and a good
chance to get the lads exposed to service level cricket.
We now look forward the next services in 2017 where Army,
will once again, aim to knock Air Force off their perch.
Ryan Walmsley, Mike Clulow and Jesse Voice were
selected as players in the NZDF side. NZ Army also
had Joel Grason selected as Manager, Rana Stevens
as Umpire and Tom George as Umpire for NZDF. With
Rory Lorimer won the Bowler of Tournament award,
after taking seven wickets at an average of 20 runs
per wicket.
Several members of the team also passed significant
milestones, both personally and within the team:
Noting there are limited records available from
before 2004:
1. Scott MacGibbon played his 50th game and
received his Baggy Black.
2. Rory Lorimer passed 1000 runs with the bat.
3. Ryan Walmsley and Rory Lorimer have now
both hit over 100 4s for Army, with 108 and 104
respectively.
4. Personal best batting high scores for Army: Ryan
Walmsley 158, Richard Woodhead 91, and Scott
MacGibbon 51.
5. Personal best bowling figures for Army: Jesse
Voice 3–27, Dougald Munro 1–55.
6. The following people earned their NZ Army
Cricket Pocket: Dougald Munro, Johnny
Newcomb, Jesse Voice, Casey Goldsbro, Tim
Simpson and Tom George.
7. The following people were presented their Baggy
Red (three games): Dougald Munro, Johnny
Newcomb and Jesse Voice.
26armySPORT
issue 471 | april 2016

nz army sports awards

Message from the Chairperson of Softball manager Sergeant Melissa Hansen was
awarded the NZ Army Sports Administration Pocket
the NZ Army Sports Committee, for Services to Army sports
Colonel J Kaio Sergeant Melissa Hansen’s 15-year “exemplary
Army sport enables our success on operations as dedication” to Army, NZDF and community softball,
it offers our people the opportunity to practice the as a player and official, has been recognised with the
skills required to achieve mission success: planning, Army Pocket for Administration.
selection, training, rehearsals, execution and In 2002, a serious injury took her off the softball
learning lessons. Sporting teams and individuals diamond, and off the NZ Army Women’s Team. But her
have to cooperate and operate in a high-performance love for the game continued, and managing became her
environment, under physical and mental duress, just as way of “giving back” to the sport.
contingents must do on operations. “I'm passionate about softball, and now that I'm no
The NZ Army Sports Committee Executive longer a player, I as the manager look after everything
acknowledges the very high standard of nominations for off the field so that the players can concentrate on
all of the award categories and would like to recognise playing the game and giving their best effort.
COL McAslan (centre) presents award to WO2 Ball and
the efforts of those who have achieved provincial and SPR Woodmass “This is my way of making sure my ‘family’ can play.
national honours in their individual sports. We are a softball family, not just a sports code, and
To all the personnel who were nominated, well done that goes across the three services. Within the Army
The NZ Army Senior Men's Rugby team were
and to the winners, please accept our congratulations. softball family, by working together (especially with
presented with the NZ Army Supreme Award at the
the assistance of Mrs Jenni Mumm) we are able to get
Sports Awards
Message from the command team the best out of our players and management teams to
Last year, four years of development came to fruition
grow and promote the sport not only across the Army
Being “the best” and reaching your potential is healthy, for the NZ Army Senior Men’s team, winning them the
but the NZDF.”
in terms of mindset and motivation. To push oneself Inter-Services Rugby Tournament and now the NZ Army
through training, diet and skills regimes to achieve SGT Hansen admits that six months of the year “it is
Supreme Award.
peak performance amongst the demands of the all about softball”. Her children are also involved in the
Under the leadership of a newly appointed head
soldiering profession is not easy. In addition, you must sport; her daughter plays for the Air Force team, and her
coach, WO2 Lance Ball, captain Major Logan Vaughan
actually compete, for that is where you learn to make son plays as well.
and vice-captain Sapper Tanui Woodmass, the team
decisions under pressure and adapt when the plan isn't She is currently the manager of the Army Women’s
beat the RNZ Air Force, 27–6, and the RNZ Navy, 25–20,
working or unforeseen events occur. team, a position she has held since 2014. As
in high-tempo games. This was the first win against the
For most individuals, there is a finite window in which manager, SGT Hansen ensures that all administration
Navy in three years.
to go as far as you can. There are a number of soldiers requirements are met for players and the management.
The team was awarded all the awards from the
who have attained regional and national honours. “My role is everything off the diamond, and I leave
tournament: The King George Cup – Winner of the IS
These are awesome feats for the individuals concerned everything on the field to the coach. I am passionate
Tournament (first time in four years); the Tyrrell Cup
and they make great ambassadors for Army within the about making sure the girls and guys on the team get to
– Winner of Army Vs Navy. (first time in four years);
community. Champions in sport help to motivate others focus on playing. I learn a lot from watching them.”
the Walsh Memorial Shield for punctuality, conduct,
through examples of grit, teamwork and discipline. adherence to the rules and dress; and Player of the SGT Hansen has also managed teams in her Hutt
As we celebrate the success of our award winners, Tournament: SGT P Togia, RNZIR. Valley community, and is one of the Trentham-based
I wish to thank all those that contribute to Army regional representatives for the Northern Region. She is
WO2 Ball says that the team had done a lot of team
sport directly or indirectly. You can take pride in the also part of the Army Softball Committee and continues
development in the past few years, broadening their
achievements of your respective competitors because to represent the Army at the NZDF Softball AGMs.
skill base, overcoming a tendency to “be a bit ‘gun
you have unselfishly given of your time and expertise shy’, improving their self-belief and their will to win, to She managed the Army Men’s team, 2009-2013, and
so that they may succeed. ‘fight the fight’”. the NZDF Men’s team in 2013, for their match against
We are about winning with humility. Well done to all the Australian Defence Team.
“The unit should be very proud of these boys,” he
involved in Army sport. Nga Mihi Nui. says. “There is a lot of time, a lot of sacrifice involved, Her citation reads: “SGT Hansen can be relied upon
by the players, and the management.” to complete all tasks allocated to a high standard,
to ensure that her softball family are well equipped,
physically capable, and represent the NZ Army to the
The NZ Army Young Sportsperson of the Year is best of their ability.
basketballer A/LCPL Steven Dwyer, whose citation “During her service to softball, SGT Hansen has
glows with acclamations like “mesmerising to watch”, assisted and mentored other managers with their
“exceptional skill level”, “unique offensive talents and duties, and in doing so, always ensuring softball is
shooting ability”, “outstanding personal qualities... moving forward.”
professionalism, dedication and commitment”.
A/LCPL Dwyer is into just his second year of playing
basketball for the NZ Army and NZDF, but the “up-and-coming”
young player’s abilities have certainly not gone unnoticed.
His citation says the NZ Army Men’s Basketball team’s win
at the Inter-Services Tournament is in no small part due to A/
LCPL Dwyer’s “unique offensive talents and shooting ability,
combined with his relentless work ethic and his drive and
determination to win”.
For that, he won – for the second consecutive year – Most
Valuable Player, the Men’s Three-Point Throw Cup, and a
number of “player of the game” awards. “This consistency
of his achievements is a testament to the calibre of athlete
Steven is.
“His talents and skills are truly unique, and he displayed
outstanding personal qualities throughout the tournament.
He was mesmerising to watch and for such a young player
to take out MVP at Services for a second time it is truly an
extraordinary achievement,” reads his citation.
A/LCPL Dwyer was also selected for the NZDF Men’s
Basketball team that competed in the Hoops Nation
Tournament in Whanganui at Labour Weekend, where
“he delivered some truly mesmerising performances for
spectators in closely fought games”.
A/CPL Dwyer has been playing basketball since age 11,
when he began playing for his intermediate team. He went on
to play for a variety of Auckland teams. After joining the Army
and moving to Linton, has also played for the Palmerston
North Under-23 team.
“I love the fast pace of the game, and the fact that all
positions can score, but – most importantly – you can only CA presents SGT Hansen with award.
win by working together as a team,” says A/LCPL Dwyer.
 armySPORT27 issue 471 | april 2016

Staff Sergeant Davey Forbes received the NZ Army
Sports Official of the Year Award for his services to
rugby and other sports
SSGT Davey Forbes won Official of the Year for taking an
innovative approach to helping sportspeople – particularly
rugby players – achieve their sporting goals.
“During 2015, SSGT Forbes has consistently performed
to an exceptional standard, ensuring that all players
are trained and developed to a very high standard. He
challenges current ideas and is always looking for new
initiatives that will help individuals and teams understand
their abilities and strengths,” his citation says.
SSGT Forbes, who holds a Bachelor of Health Science
(Sport and Exercise), has brought in outside specialists
to give players a variety of different experiences,
complementing their training programmes.
His exemplary attitude, vast array of training skills,
professionalism and enthusiasm have made him a “very
valuable member of not only the Army Senior Men’s Rugby
Team, but the NZDF Defence Blacks and ultimately the
Highlanders franchise”.
“He adds exceptional skill, knowledge and drive to all
individuals and teams he is associated with.”
SSGT Forbes has played rugby since he was a teenager,
including playing a season under contract in Northern
Ireland. He became involved in Army Rugby, as a strength
and conditioner, when he took over from the late
Sergeant Nathan Blackler in 2006, who became too sick
to stay involved.
In 2015, he was involved with training the NZ Army
Rugby team, who won Inter-Services tournament; the
Football and futsal player Lieutenant Jono Steele won the
Army Outstanding Sports Award
LT Steele’s “tremendous success” in football and futsal
during 2015 has earned him an NZ Army Outstanding
Sports Award.
Last year he was selected for the NZ Futsal Whites, and
topped off a busy 12-cap international season by winning the
Trans-Pacific Cup in December. This year he was selected as
a non-travelling reserve for the NZ World Cup Qualifiers
Squad (Oceania).
He was also selected for the Army and NZDF Football teams,
“representing both to a very high standard”, according to
the award citation. He also played Federation League for
Manawatu, co-captained the Manawatu United Youth team,
and was nominated as Manawatu Sportsman of the Year.
His citation says that “LT Steele’s passion, determination,
commitment and professionalism to his sport is a credit
to him, and reflects the ethos and values of the Army and
NZDF. LT Steele provides an excellent role model to other
sportspeople, and is a very worthy nominee.”
Highlanders, who won
the Super 15; and is
the head strength
and conditioner of
the NZDF Defence
Blacks Rugby Team.
But his experiences
don’t end with rugby.
He has been involved
with high-achieving
sportspeople in a
variety of sporting
fields, including
softball, cycling,
cricket, netball,
handball, golf, and
yachting. Between
2011 and 2015, he was the strength and conditioner for
various NZ Black Sox Softball members, and in 2008
worked in strength and conditioning for the NZ Paralympic
Squad members travelling to Beijing.
“I have a lot to thank the Army and NZDF for, and for
supporting me achieve what I have on the outside of
the organisation. Imparting my knowledge gained and
helping dedicated sportspeople (particularly rugby
players) achieve their goals here in the NZDF is a great
satisfaction.”
He says he gets satisfaction from keeping Defence
Rugby competitive in the outside world. He also values the
relationships he has developed through his involvement
in sport, “the lifelong friendships and memories you make
along the way”.
LT Steele has been playing football since he was just four
years’ old, but only took up futsal three years’ ago, “only
because Manawatu could not field a team in the ASB National
Football league”.
“I couldn’t sit there and do nothing with my summer, so I
decided I’d give futsal a crack. I look back on that now as one
of the best decisions I have ever made.”
What he enjoys most about football and futsal is the games
allow a large degree of creativity.
“In both sports there is always the ongoing battle to strike
the right balance between structure and free flow. This, in
turn, means that there is no perfect player. Each player has
their own completely unique style and has to constantly
adapt the way they express that style.
“The other thing that I like about both sports are the stories
behind the best players of the game. Take Lionel Messi, for
example, he was told a number of times he was too small to
play at the highest level, but instead of throwing the towel
in, it strengthened his determination and he is now the best
player in the world.”
LT Steele says his training schedule depends on whether
he’s building up to a tournament or an international. In peak
training periods, he trains every day, except for a weekly
rest day.
“I divide my training up into three types; job specific, sport
specific, and injury prevention. Job specific is basically PT,
sport specific is usually high-intensity interval training,
agility training or plyometric. I need to give a massive thanks
to SGT Chris Cubitt, a PTI at Linton who has helped me
throughout the last year to get into peak shape – he is an
absolute LEGEND.”
He would also like to thank others who have helped him
in his quest for sporting excellence: SSGT Warren Hook; Mr
Andy Sawyer; CAPT Gene Fenton and WO2 Ed Dore-Wright;
SGT Chris Cubitt; and LTCOL Mark Taylor.
And he also gives credit to the NZ Army, which “actively
pushes people to participate in sport”, recognising its value
to individual and team development.
“It’s good to play sport at any level because you widen your
The NZ Army Colour was presented to Mr Trevor
Gilbert, who has devoted 23 years to Army softball as
a player, coach and tournament administrator
Mr Gilbert’s Army softball career started 50 years
ago, when he played at his first Summer Inter-Services,
before a break in 1985, when he left the Army. In 2005,
when he re-joined NZDF at Papakura Camp as a civilian,
he rekindled his involvement with Army softball.
“Mr Gilbert is worthy of recognition at the highest
level of Army sport by virtue of his tireless dedication
and efforts to softball at the inter-regional, Army,
combined services, and at the national level.
“Look no further for a person who personifies
the passion and drive in fostering Army softball
camaraderie,” says his citation. “Mr Gilbert is well
known in Army softball circles as the ‘link’ between
softball’s past and present members. He also
maintains an extensive contacts list of all those who
have represented Army softball.”
Mr Gilbert says that what he loves most about being
involved in Army softball is the camaraderie. He has
made life-long friends since he first started playing in
the mid-1960s.
“When I first joined the Army, sport was heavily
encouraged. In the 1960s and 1970s, we had combined
winter sports. It was a logistic nightmare, but it was
fantastic.”
He played for the Army softball team (1966–1985),
the NZDF team (1969–1985), and also regional teams,
Papakura Army and Royals Softball Club (1966–1985),
and the Counties Provincial Team (1969–1978). In
1970, he also played for the NZ Colts side against the
Arizona All Stars, when they toured New Zealand. He
also played athletics and rugby for the NZ Army and
NZDF teams.
His coaching career includes: coaching the inter-
regional (formerly inter-district) men’s and women’s
teams, 1975 to 1985; Army men’s team (coach and
assistant coach, 2005–2010); Army women’s assistant
coach (2013); and the NZDF (assistant coach, 2009). He
was also the Army women’s manager, 2011 to 2013.
Mr Gilbert is still very passionate about the game.
He retires in two months, but will no doubt continue
watching the sport with interest.
CA presents award to Mr Gilbert.
networks, become fitter and healthier, and you understand
more about yourself… you learn how to deal with pressure,
work in a team, and you become a better leader. It’s good to
play for an Army or Defence team because that is the best;
you’re pushing yourself to be better and making one of those
teams is recognition of this. Plus, you make tons of great
mates and have a bunch of laughs.”

CPL Paul Davis’s achievements in Touch won him
the Army Sportsperson of the Year award.
CPL Davis is a key part of the NZ Army Open Men’s touch
team, which has continued its nine-year winning streak at
Inter-Services Touch.
“With his New Zealand and world-class playing ability,
[CPL Davis] has continued to elevate the standard of touch
of all players involved in the game, at Army level. With
his influence, the Army domination of NZDF Touch looks
assured (touch wood),” read the award citation.
As well as playing at NZDF and Army level, CPL Davis
played for the silver-medal winning New Zealand “Touch
Blacks”, at the 2015 Federation of International Touch World
Cup, and for Wairere Club.
“CPL Davis’s success can be attributed to exceptional
talent, an unmatched passion for the game, and a
significant amount of dedicated training.”
He also gives back to the game with his involvement as
the Coach of the Canterbury Country Under-17 Mixed side.
“This team is essentially made up of dependants of proud
NZ Army parents who were unsuccessful at entering the
2016 NZ Touch Junior Nationals as ‘NZ Army Youth’. Their
development (and hopefully good results in March 2016)
will be a direct reflection of the time and effort that CPL
Davis has committed to their training.
“Accordingly, in recognition of the tremendous level
of sporting success and the outstanding contribution to
his chosen Sport during this reporting period, Paul is
nominated as the NZ Army Individual Sports Person of
the Year.”
BRIG Parsons presents award to CPL Davis.
issue 471 | april 2016

2/4 RNZIR parades in Nelson

2/4 RNZIR conducted a charter parade at Nelson over the weekend, followed by a formal
dinner. Soldiers from all three Battalion companies travelled from all over the South
Island to Nelson for the charter parade and formal dinner.

2/4 RNZIR CO LTCOL Brosnan (centre) assisted by C Coy OC MAJ Hermiston (L) and B Coy
OC CAPT Robertson (R)