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<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
<strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Inc. October / November 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Remembrance Day<br />
11 November<br />
Lest We forget . See page 49<br />
<strong>Exercise</strong><br />
<strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong><br />
<strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong> takes off in<br />
Northern Territory see pages 8-10<br />
22 October<br />
Pink Ribbon Day<br />
31 October<br />
Halloween<br />
6 November<br />
Melbourne Cup<br />
Informing you with interesting Territory facts,<br />
great discounts, competitions for the kids<br />
and a guide to what’s happening in Darwin!<br />
a magazine created by defence families for defence families
Upcoming Events<br />
at Darwin Waterfront<br />
Family Movie’s Under the Stars, from 7pm Saturday 6 October, FREE<br />
Experience the magic of the Darwin Waterfront under the stars in front of a big<br />
outdoor cinema screen! Bring your own chair or picnic rug, purchase food from<br />
precinct outlets or simply pack a picnic.<br />
Fridge Festival, <strong>12</strong> - 27 October, FREE<br />
<strong>The</strong> Darwin Fridge Festival is salute to art, people and the humble fridge. Enjoy the<br />
“Fridge Walk” around the Waterfront Precinct and experience this uniquely Territorian<br />
event. Don’t miss the Finale celebrations on Saturday 27 October.<br />
Variety Santa Fun Run, Sunday 25 November<br />
Be part of the fun as the Waterfront Precinct is taken over by a sea of red Santas, all<br />
helping to raise funds for sick, disadvantaged and special needs children.<br />
Wave Lagoon Aqua Zumba, Every Sunday, 9am, Adults $<strong>12</strong>, children $8 (under 15yrs)<br />
Enjoy an exhilarating low impact chest deep workout in the Wave Lagoon without the<br />
waves. Price includes same day entry to the Wave Lagoon from 10am to 2pm!<br />
Tai Chi, Every Saturday at 7am, FREE<br />
Immerse yourself in the tranquil parklands of Darwin Waterfront with free beginners Tai<br />
Chi on the lawns. Bring your own waterbottle, towel and sun protection.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Darwin Waterfront<br />
Experience the best of Darwin’s tropical lifestyle while enjoying resort-style luxuries,<br />
safe swimming, ocean views and delicious food.<br />
Wave Lagoon<br />
Darwin’s Wave Lagoon is a safe, stinger and croc-free wave<br />
and swimming lagoon. <strong>The</strong> different wave types provide<br />
a range of experiences and ensure the wave lagoon is<br />
suitable for the whole family. Open everyday 10am - 6pm.<br />
Recreation Lagoon<br />
<strong>The</strong> Recreation Lagoon is a free, safe swimming area<br />
surrounded by the beautiful parkland of the Darwin Waterfront.<br />
Restaurants and Retail Outlets<br />
Grab a coffee, enjoy a meal or browse the shops at the Darwin Waterfront. You’ll find a<br />
wide array of retail outlets, restaurants and cafes to choose from.<br />
No alcohol or glass.<br />
P<br />
Paid parking applies 7 days a week at the Darwin<br />
Waterfront. Park 2 hours FREE at the Kitchener Drive<br />
multi-storey carpark or $1 for 3hrs and $3 for 4hrs.<br />
t. 8999 5155 | e. darwinwaterfront@nt.gov.au | www.waterfront.nt.gov.au
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
Your CommunitY<br />
4 TEFG Bi-Monthly Program<br />
6 Billeroy Road Community Centre<br />
6 Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House<br />
7 Coonawarra Community House<br />
7 Robertson Barracks Family Group<br />
Your Support<br />
13 DCO "Connecting Your Community"<br />
14 Defence Families of Australia<br />
17 Veterans and Veterans Families<br />
Counselling Service<br />
FeatureS<br />
8 <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong><br />
18 On the Spot - Territory Child Care<br />
20 <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong> Sets Sail<br />
25 St John Ambulance -<br />
26 Hello From Darwin DCO Office<br />
30 Crocosaurus Cove Cage of Death Competition<br />
31 Crocosaurus Cove Colouring In Competition<br />
39 Remembrace Day<br />
41 Could You Safe a Life?<br />
44 No1 Spitfire Honoured<br />
46 <strong>Exercise</strong> Hamel 20<strong>12</strong> Concludes<br />
48 Bathurst Shows Whose Boss<br />
49 Darwin Sailors wash ashore in Katherine<br />
53 City of Darwin Animal Registration<br />
- Dog Walking Areas<br />
54 Australian Defence Force Celebrate in <strong>Top</strong> End<br />
FavouriteS<br />
37 Big Sky Publishing Book Giveaways<br />
40 Parenting Advice - Toddlers/Young Children<br />
- who wont eat<br />
51 Melbourne Cup Munchies<br />
56 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> Notice Board<br />
57 Check It Out in the NT<br />
58 Craig's Fishing Warehouse<br />
59 What’s the Tide doin’?<br />
60 Happy Birthday<br />
61 Handy Directory<br />
KidS’ Corner<br />
30 Crocosaurus Cove Cage of Death Competition<br />
31 Crocosaurus Cove Colouring In Competition<br />
32 Kids' Corner<br />
33 Office Works Colouring in Competition<br />
34 Kids' Science Experiments<br />
37 Halloween Recipes<br />
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS<br />
1st Berrimah Scout Group ..............................................24<br />
1st Palmerston Scout Group ...........................................24<br />
A1 Kennels & Cattery Cattery......................................................52<br />
Alawa Scouts..................................................................24<br />
All Pets Veterinary Hospital ............................................55<br />
Army Amenities Fund .....................................................15<br />
Australian Defence Credit Union.....................................13<br />
Avant Personnel ...............................................................3<br />
City of Darwin Animal Registration .................................53<br />
Charloe ..........................................................................42<br />
Craig's Fishing Warehouse .............................................58<br />
Crocosaurus Cove ..........................................................30<br />
Darwin Family Day Care..................................................18<br />
Darwin Languages Centre ................................................3<br />
Darwin Waterfront ................................. Inside Back Cover<br />
Defence Families of Australia .........................................15<br />
Defence Community Organisation Family Helpline ..........13<br />
Defence Housing Australia .............................................38<br />
Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme....................23<br />
Defence Support Division ...............................................19<br />
Dogtainers .....................................................................52<br />
Escape Travel Palmerston ..............................................11<br />
Ellement's Enterprise .....................................................42<br />
Family Relationship Centre .............................................38<br />
Girl Guides NT ................................................................24<br />
Greyhound Adoption Program NT ...................................52<br />
Goldfish Bowl .................................................................42<br />
Hair Free Darwin ............................................................43<br />
Helga's Pet Resort ..........................................................55<br />
HMAS Coonawarra Holiday Cabins .................................43<br />
Kiwanis Club of Casuarina..............................................50<br />
MOPS Palmerston (Mothers of Preschoolers)..................43<br />
National Cancer Council.................................................42<br />
Officeworks....................................................................33<br />
Palmerston Christian School...........................................36<br />
P.A.W.S Darwin...............................................................55<br />
Peter Cavanagh - Tax Agent............................................50<br />
Play <strong>The</strong>rapy...................................................................40<br />
Quest Apartments ................................. Inside Front Cover<br />
Quota International.........................................................43<br />
RAAF Darwin Fishing Club..............................................59<br />
Relationships Australia...................................................38<br />
Royal Life Saving ............................................................ 41<br />
St John Ambulance.........................................................25<br />
Territory Child Care Group Inc. .......................................18<br />
<strong>The</strong> Salvation Army - Red Shield Defence Services .........16<br />
TS Darwin Australian Navy Cadets..................................24<br />
Tumbling Waters Holiday Park ........................................36<br />
University Avenue Veterinary Hospital ............................55<br />
Value Inn ........................................................................11<br />
VVAA NT Rural Sub Branch.............................................15<br />
VVCS..............................................................................17<br />
WINNZALL RAAF Base Service Station...........................50<br />
Young Diggers ....................................... Inside Back Cover<br />
<strong>The</strong>se businesses support our magazine,<br />
let’s support them too.
2<br />
A word from the<br />
Chairperson<br />
Wow, we’re coming to the end of<br />
20<strong>12</strong>!<br />
First of all I’d like to say a very<br />
big warm welcome to all our<br />
new members of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
Committee. We are truly thankful<br />
for you and that you’re keeping<br />
this amazing magazine going -<br />
we reach so many families and<br />
help them connect with a new<br />
place (or even re-visiting).<br />
Build up is here and although I dare<br />
say it, yes Christmas is just around<br />
the corner and there will be lot’s of<br />
events on offer throughout Darwin<br />
and Palmerston!<br />
Happy reading!!<br />
Best wishes<br />
Kylie Vermeer<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
CONTACT US<br />
PHONE: 08 8947 2657<br />
Fax: 08 8289 8357<br />
EMAIL: thetopender@aapt.net.au<br />
topenderadvertising@aapt.net.au<br />
WEBSITE: www.thetopender.com.au<br />
MaIL: PO BOx 35874 Winnellie NT 0821<br />
aDDRESS: (rear of) Building 6,<br />
‘Sahara Room’, Melville Road,<br />
Defence Establishment Berrimah<br />
OCTOBEr<br />
5-6 Barra Bash<br />
DISCLAIMER: <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated welcomes manuscripts, photographs or other material for publication, however we do not accept responsibility for loss.<br />
Please ensure your copy fits to a specified dimension and is received by the Designer on the Copy Deadline for the month. Copy can be accepted on disk or via email. All artwork produced<br />
remains the property of the <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> and cannot be reproduced without permission of the Designer. Editorial Disclaimer: Any opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those<br />
of the Editorial Staff or of the Defence Community Organisation or Department of Defence. All articles in this newsletter are printed on the understanding that they are the original work of the<br />
authors and not necessarily those of the Editorial Staff or Designer. Editorial Staff reserve the right to reject, edit or rearrange any item submitted. <strong>The</strong>y are not responsible for the accuracy of<br />
items submitted but will make every reasonable effort to verify information. <strong>The</strong> Trade Practices Act provides severe penalties for false and misleading advertising. Because it is not possible<br />
for this magazines’ staff to check the accuracy of advertising claims, the responsibility for accuracy lies with the person or companies submitting material for publication in their advertisements.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated is a non-profit organisation, partially funded by the Family Support Funding Program administered by the Defence Community Organisation.<br />
Over 3800 copies are produced bi-monthly and distributed free to defence families, members and units in Darwin and Palmerston. Revenue raised from advertising helps directly to pay for<br />
printing and production costs as well as improvements to the facilities used by volunteers. Advertising rates start at $72. Please contact our friendly team for more information.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
6 Latino Gala Ball<br />
6 Off the Rack - Art Exhibition<br />
8 School Term 4 Begins<br />
13 alice Springs Master Games<br />
13 Darwin Fridge Festival<br />
17 Ride To Work Day<br />
22 Pink Ribbon Day<br />
21-27 National Water Week<br />
26 National Bandanna Day<br />
27 Milpirri Festival<br />
20-28 NT Children's Week<br />
31 Halloween<br />
NOvEMBEr<br />
1-30 Movember<br />
<strong>12</strong>-18 National Recycling Week<br />
11-17 National Adoption Week<br />
11-17 National Psychology Week<br />
22 Remembrance Day<br />
25 White Ribbon Day<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> Committee<br />
Chairperson - Hayley Odgers<br />
Public Officer - Kim Ingleton<br />
Secretary - Erin Baxter<br />
Treasurer - Debbie Whitehouse<br />
General Members<br />
Kylie Vermeer, Kelly Philipson,<br />
Laura Simpson-Helman<br />
Staff<br />
Administration Officer - Nicole Fitzpatrick<br />
Graphic Designer - Stephanie Ryan<br />
Printed by<br />
8932 7400
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
3
4<br />
<strong>Top</strong> End<br />
Family Group<br />
October Program<br />
Date time activity age group Location<br />
Monday 1 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 2 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 3 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 5 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Monday 8 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 9 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 10 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday <strong>12</strong> 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
Monday 15 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 16 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 17 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 19 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
Saturday 20 6.30pm Adults Cheese Tasting Night Adults Sattlers Bar<br />
Monday 22 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 23 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 24 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 26 6-8.30pm Youth Zone Halloween Disco Children Alwaa Hall<br />
9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
6pm Family Dinner All Ages Tailer Boat Club<br />
Sunday 28 9-11am Childrens Craft Children Larrakeyah<br />
Monday 29 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Wednesday 31 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9.30-<strong>12</strong>pm Halloween <strong>The</strong>med Party/Playgroup Children RBFG
<strong>Top</strong> End<br />
Family Group<br />
November Program<br />
Date time activity age group Location<br />
Monday 5 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 6 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
9.30-<strong>12</strong>.00pm Melbourne Cup Morning Tea Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 7 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 10 9.30-11.30am New & Used Baby Market Adults RBFG<br />
9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
Monday <strong>12</strong> 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 13 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 14 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 16 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
Saturday 17 Xmas Party Adults RBFG<br />
Monday 19 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 20 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 21 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 23 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
10-<strong>12</strong>pm Larrakeyah Christmas Party Children Larrakeyah<br />
Monday 26 9-11.30am Little Jumping Jetts Playgroup Adults + Under 5's RBFG<br />
Tuesday 27 9.30-11.30am Happy As Larry Playgroup 0-5 Larrakeyah<br />
9.30-11.30am Drop in Tuedays Children RBFG<br />
Wednesday 28 9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
Friday 30 6-8.30pm Youth Zone Halloween Disco Children Alwaa Hall<br />
9.30-11.30am Playgroup 0-5 RBFG<br />
9-10am Weightloss Support Adults Larrakeyah<br />
7pm Ladies Dinner Adults Nirvana<br />
For activity details, please refer to<br />
the following community pages > COONAWARRA<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
HOUSE<br />
LArrAkEyA yA y h<br />
NEIghBOUrhOOd<br />
hOUSE<br />
5
6<br />
Little Jumping Jets Playgroup<br />
When: ...........Monday Mornings<br />
Time:.............9:00-11:30am<br />
Cost:..............$2.50 per child,<br />
$3 per family<br />
Introduce your littlies to simple craft and outdoor<br />
play. Please bring a piece of fruit to share for<br />
morning tea<br />
Community Picnic<br />
When: .................6th September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Cost:....................FrEE<br />
Come along and enjoy an afternoon with family<br />
and friends. Bring along a picnic basket and rug.<br />
Happy As Larry Playgroup<br />
Every Tues 9:30-11:30am<br />
Ph: 8923 5170 / Fax: 8941 0<strong>12</strong>3<br />
If you are new to Darwin or just<br />
wanting to get out of the house<br />
with your kiddies, then come<br />
on down and have a look. We<br />
run different events each week<br />
- craft, cooking, water play, story<br />
time, dress ups & more.<br />
$2 members, $3 non-members<br />
Please bring a piece of fruit to share for<br />
morning tea, hat and drink bottle<br />
Larrakeyah Christmas Party<br />
Saturday 24th November<br />
10-<strong>12</strong>pm<br />
Saturday 24th November 10:00am to <strong>12</strong>:00pm<br />
Children’s amusements, Family BBQ<br />
Visit from Santa<br />
Please RSVP for this event by Sat 10th/ 11<br />
<strong>12</strong> Billeroy Rd, RAAF Base Darwin, NT 0820 • Email: billeroy@hotmail.com<br />
Website: www.billeroy.webs.com • Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-1:00pm<br />
Wine and Cheese<br />
Tasting Night<br />
When: ..........Saturday 20th October<br />
Where:.......... Sattlers Bar at the Hub Palmerston<br />
Time:............6.30pm<br />
Cost:.............$30 per person, Includes wine<br />
& cheese<br />
Youth Zone -<br />
Halloween Disco<br />
When: .......... 26th October<br />
Where: .........Alawa hall<br />
Time:............6pm-8.30pm<br />
Cost:.............$5.00 per child<br />
Come dressed in your scariest costume.<br />
This is a supervised event.<br />
LArrAkEyA yA y h NEIghBOUrhOOd hOUSE<br />
20 Stevens Terrace, Larrakeyah, NT 0820 | Coordinator: Nikki Cook<br />
Phone: 08 8935 5498 | Fax: 8941 6000<br />
Email: larrakeyahhouse@bigpond.com<br />
Open Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday<br />
Childrens Craft<br />
Last Saturday of the month<br />
9-11am<br />
ages 0-6<br />
Younger children’s craft activities<br />
Please bring a piece of fruit to share<br />
$5 for members $7 for non members<br />
RSVP to: larrakeyahhouse@bigpond.com<br />
Lovely Ladies Dinner<br />
Friday 30th November 7pm<br />
Lovely Ladies Dinner<br />
Nirvana Restaurant<br />
Friday 30th November 7pm<br />
Rsvp by 26/11 to secure booking<br />
RSVP to: larrakeyahhouse@bigpond.com<br />
Family Dinner<br />
Trailer Boat Club Darwin<br />
Friday 26th October 6pm<br />
Rsvp by 22/10 to secure booking<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Xmas Party<br />
When: .................17th November<br />
Stay tuned to facebook for all the details<br />
Coffee Club Morning<br />
We will meet at a different coffee shop every<br />
second week in Darwin and Palmerston. Have<br />
a look on our website and facebook for where<br />
we will be.<br />
Centre hire<br />
$20.00 Great for functions, business<br />
meetings, birthday parties and BBQ’s<br />
Call the centre for details.<br />
Weightloss Support<br />
Group<br />
Friday Mornings 9-10am<br />
Weight Loss Support Group<br />
Friday Mornings 9am—10am $3 per week<br />
Support • Encouragement • Friendship<br />
Private weekly weigh-ins<br />
Monthly prizes and acknowledgements<br />
of achievements<br />
Information sheets - recipes,<br />
exercise ideas etc<br />
WHY NOT HIRE<br />
THE HOUSE!<br />
available to all aDF families for<br />
BBQs or kids parties etc. Cost<br />
is $20 plus refundable deposit.<br />
(Free for House Members!)
At Lone Pine Chapel,<br />
Multi-user facility,<br />
Robertson Barracks<br />
Tel: 8925 3710<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
For further information<br />
call, leave a message<br />
or email us at<br />
rbfg07@yahoo.com.au<br />
FIND US ON FACEBOOK - ROBERTSON BARRACKS FAMILY GROUP<br />
Membership: Don’t forget that membership<br />
is only $5 per family for the rest of the year.<br />
...............................<br />
Facebook Page<br />
https://www.facebook.com/groups/11172174<strong>12</strong>92/<br />
Please keep an eye on our Facebook page<br />
as events are being updated regularly.<br />
...............................<br />
UP U coMing Ming M ing FAM FAMi FAMiiLY i LY EVE EVEn EVEnnTS nTS<br />
Halloween themed party/<br />
playgroup<br />
WEdNESdAy Ay A y, 9:30am - <strong>12</strong>.00pm<br />
> 31st October 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Halloween themed party/playgroup on Wednesday the 31st of Oct<br />
9.30-<strong>12</strong>pm. Jumping castle, facepainting & prize for best costume.<br />
Bring a plate to share.<br />
Melbourne cup Morning tea<br />
TUESdAy Ay A y, 9:30am - <strong>12</strong>:00noon<br />
> 6th November 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Melbourne Cup Morning tea Tuesday the 6th November 9.30-<strong>12</strong>pm<br />
Jumping Castle, Horsey craft & Races for the kids & a prize for best<br />
dressed mum!<br />
Bring a plate to share :-)<br />
new & Used Baby Market<br />
SATUrdAy Ay A y, 9am - 11:30am<br />
> 10th November 20<strong>12</strong><br />
EvEry WEdNESdAy Ay A ANd FrIdAy Ay A y, 9:30 - 11:30am<br />
New & Used Baby Market on the Saturday the 10th of November<br />
9am (venue to be advised soon)<br />
christmas Party<br />
SATUrdAy Ay A y, 3PM - 6PM<br />
> 1st December 20<strong>12</strong><br />
* Christmas Party for fiancial members on Saturday December 1st<br />
from 3pm-6pm.<br />
Drop in Tuesdays nEW!<br />
EvEry TUESdAy Ay A y, 9:30am - 11:30am<br />
Drop in Tuesdays 9.30-11.30am, where each week will be<br />
something different eg.Early childhood nurse visit, DSTA Visits, DCO<br />
information sessions, Deployment/absence from home support<br />
groups, Pamper sessions & Mediation workshops. Please follow us<br />
on facebook to keep up to date with detail for these sessions.<br />
Playgroup<br />
EvEry WEdNESdAy Ay A ANd FrIdAy Ay A y, 9:30 - 11:30am<br />
Join us for fun at our themed playgroups including story time,<br />
puppets, music, balloon animals, painting, craft and every child<br />
gets to take home a colouring pack.<br />
COONAWARRA COMMUNITY HOUSE<br />
Building 53 Melville Rd East, Defence Establishment Berrimah COONAWARRA NT 0820<br />
Phone: 8947 0411<br />
Email: coonawarracomhouse1@bigpond.com<br />
Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9.00am-<strong>12</strong>.00noon<br />
FIND US ON FACEBOOK - COONAWARRA COMMUNITY HOUSE<br />
WE ArE CLOSEd UNTIL FUrThEr NOTICE<br />
SOrry FOr ANy INCONvENIENCE<br />
7
8<br />
Up to 100 military aircraft were in the Northern Territory from<br />
July 27 until August 17 as the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF)<br />
hosts international partners for <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong>.<br />
With 2200 participants coming from across Australia,<br />
Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, New Zealand and the United<br />
States, <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> was held from RAAF Bases Darwin<br />
and Tindal.<br />
Air Commander Australia, Air Vice Marshal Mel Hupfeld, said<br />
the biennial exercise would this year feature a mix of first-time<br />
and returning participants, making it the most advanced in the<br />
event’s 22-year history.<br />
“For the first time at <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong>, Australia will be fielding<br />
the Super Hornet, Wedgetail airborne Early Warning and Control<br />
aircraft, and KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport,” he said.<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Indonesian Air Force will make its debut appearance at<br />
<strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong>, and we’re very excited to see it attend<br />
with its Sukhoi Flanker fighter aircraft.<br />
“Singapore has been a regular participant and will this year<br />
bring its F-15SG Eagle and Gulfstream G550 Conformal airborne<br />
Early Warning aircraft,” AVM Hupfeld said.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Photo Credit: FSGT John Carroll Australian Defence ©Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Australian, New Zealand and Indonesian Air Force members at <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> 20<strong>12</strong> in Darwin have a group photo taken in front of<br />
the Indonesian Air Force’s Sukhoi Su27 Flanker aircraft<br />
ExErCISE PITCh BLACk <strong>12</strong> TAkES OFF IN<br />
NOrThErN TErrITOry<br />
Participants at <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong> utilised massive military<br />
training areas near Bradshaw and Delamere to practice<br />
offensive counter air and offensive air support operations with<br />
large formations of foreign aircraft.<br />
“Regionally and geographically, the Northern Territory is<br />
ideally placed for exercise participants to bring together large<br />
formations of aircraft to conduct complex operations,” AVM<br />
Hupfeld said.<br />
“Conducting <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong> is a massive undertaking,<br />
not just for aircrews and maintainers but also for the planning<br />
that is involved.”<br />
During <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> <strong>12</strong>, Air Force conducted a handling<br />
display with an F/A-18 ‘Classic’ Hornet over Mindil Beach<br />
Markets on August 9. Open Day at RAAF Base Darwin will was<br />
held on August 11 for the Darwin community.<br />
“air Force has a deep bond with the Northern Territory<br />
extending back to 1938, and holding these events is our way<br />
of extending a sincere thank you to the public for its support,”<br />
AVM Hupfeld said.
Photo Credit: LACW Shannon McCarthy Australian Defence ©Commonwealth of Australia<br />
<strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> 20<strong>12</strong> <strong>Exercise</strong> Director, Group Captain Kitcher (4th from left) stands with Executives of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU)<br />
in front of an Indonesian Sukhoi SU-27.<br />
Photo Credit: LACW Shannon McCarthy Australian Defence ©Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Pilots, Lieutenant Colonel Ho Kum Luen (Republic of Singapore Air Force), Flying Officer Co (RAAF), Flight Lieutenant Maxim<br />
(Royal Thai Air Force), Flight Lieutenant Kalantary (RAAF) and Captain Auguste Rai (Republic of Singapore Air Force) conduct<br />
Mission planning during <strong>Exercise</strong> <strong>Pitch</strong> <strong>Black</strong> 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
9
10<br />
Photo Credit: LACW Shannon McCarthy Australian Defence ©Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Members of the French Air Force: Chief Corporal Delmas, Warrant Officer Erard and Flight Lieutenant Guery Mathieu.<br />
Photo Credit: LAC Terry Hartin Australian Defence ©Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Leading Aircraftsman Daniel Thompson displays some of the product of the In-Flight Catering Facility at RAAF Base Tindal.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong>
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10% off Travel Insurance<br />
Complimentary gifts for honeymooners<br />
and special occasions<br />
*Terms & Conditions apply, see instore for details<br />
Mention this advertisement at initial<br />
consulting stage for your exclusive deal!<br />
Call us now on 08 8901 2600<br />
‘Escape Travel Palmerston, your local travel specialists,<br />
proudly supporting defence force members and their families'.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
VALUE<br />
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Affordable accommodation<br />
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PH: 8981 4733 • reservations@valueinn.com.au<br />
11
<strong>12</strong><br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong>
DEFENCE COMMUNITY ORGANISATION<br />
“Connecting to your Community”<br />
Linking Defence Families to Community Activities<br />
AUgUST to OCTOBEr 20<strong>12</strong><br />
OCTOBEr<br />
Palmerston Markets Picnic Rug (TBC)<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
DCO Darwin<br />
3 Tybell St<br />
Winellie NT<br />
<strong>12</strong> th Family Self Management And Resilience Training (SMART) - Deployment Support / Absence from home theme<br />
(registration required) – DCO DWN<br />
15 th Monday Night Munchies – Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
18 th Family Self Management And Resilience Training (SMART) - Deployment Support / Absence from home theme<br />
(registration required) - Lyons<br />
21 st Mindal Market - Picnic Rug – Last Sunday Market for 20<strong>12</strong> (TBC)<br />
24 th Children’s Activities – Jingili Water Gardens<br />
30 th Family Self Management And Resilience Training (SMART) - Deployment Support / Absence from home theme<br />
(registration required) - Palmerston<br />
Stakeholder Newsletter<br />
DCO Keeping In Touch (KIT) Newsletter - Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
Family Support Funding Program – Monitoring<br />
NOvEMBEr<br />
<strong>12</strong> th Monday Night Munchies – Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
21 st Community House Christmas Lunch<br />
Stakeholder Newsletter<br />
DCO Keeping In Touch (KIT) Newsletter - Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
dECEMBEr<br />
2 nd Christmas Party - Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
<strong>12</strong> th<br />
Monday Night Munchies<br />
Stakeholder Newsletter<br />
DCO Keeping In Touch (KIT) - Deployment Support / Absence from home<br />
Darwin Carols by Candlelight<br />
Palmerston Carols by Candlelight<br />
............................<br />
To register to receive notices and updates on Defence Community Organisation Connecting Activities call the Defence Family<br />
Helpline on 1800 624 608 and register with DCO Darwin and Tindal (NT) - see advertisement on page 10 about the Helpline.<br />
Visit Defence Community Origination’s web site for more information about our range of activities and services:<br />
www.defence.gov.au/dco<br />
13
14<br />
Defence Families of australia (DFa) is an independent<br />
advisory group convened by the Department of Defence<br />
in 1985 to improve the quality of life for ADF Families by:<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
Representing the diversity of today’s Defence families;<br />
Providing accurate and honest advice to Government;<br />
Providing a recognised forum for the views of Defence<br />
families; and<br />
Reporting and making recommendations to the Minister<br />
responsible for Defence Personnel and the Chief of the<br />
Defence Force (CDF); and<br />
influencing policy making that directly affects ADF families.<br />
Your New Delegate<br />
Hello, I’m your new National Delegate for the<br />
Northern Territory, Laura Simpson-Helman.<br />
My husband has been in the army for nearly<br />
5 years. We moved from my home town of<br />
Melbourne to Townsville, then to Darwin<br />
where we have been for 2 and a half years.<br />
We have 3 children aged under 5.<br />
I enjoy the Defence lifestyle and always have a positive attitude<br />
but I also understand the impact this lifestyle has on families and<br />
how important it is to support each other.<br />
I’m a very outgoing person and love to meet new people. I<br />
already attend a lot of Defence events in Darwin. I’m also on the<br />
committee for the Robertson Barracks Family Group and <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong><br />
<strong>Ender</strong> magazine.<br />
I regularly attend DCO events and events run by other community<br />
houses. This is a great way to meet other Defence Families.<br />
I’m looking forward to been even more involved in the Defence<br />
community in this rewarding DFA role. If you have any questions<br />
about your individual situation or an issue affecting many<br />
families, please email me at nt@dfa.org.a<br />
nt@dfa.org.au.<br />
As your National Delegate, I meet with DHA, TOLL, DCO and the<br />
DRHM (Defence Relocations and Housing Manager), as well as local<br />
Commanders on a regular basis to represent the views of Defence<br />
Families, and I can raise issues affecting you and your family.<br />
DFA WORKING<br />
FOR YOU<br />
Defence Families<br />
of Australia<br />
A voice for Defence Families<br />
Defence Families of Australia National<br />
Delegates came to Canberra for a week<br />
of meetings with senior Defence leaders<br />
starting Monday 20 August 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
Conference provides an opportunity<br />
for DFA delegates to collectively discuss<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
the priorities of Defence families with Defence leaders and<br />
Senior Managers.<br />
<strong>Top</strong>ics for discussion included the following points but were not<br />
limited to them:<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
follow-up from DCO’s Defence Family Forum;<br />
recent changes to entitlements;<br />
child care for members with children;<br />
mental health;<br />
support services for MWOD families; and<br />
review and discussion of Hamilton report and how it relates<br />
to today’s ADF.<br />
Later in the year, DFa will issue the DFa agenda for 20<strong>12</strong>-13<br />
which will detail outcomes from the conference and priorities<br />
for the year ahead. Download it from the DFA website or<br />
Facebook Page.<br />
Reminder: DCO Deployment Assistance<br />
If your partner is going away on deployment or exercise, or you<br />
are going to be away from your family for exercise, deployment<br />
or as MWD(U), you can register for absence From Home<br />
assistance from DCO Darwin and Tindal for your family through<br />
the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. You can also<br />
email at DefenceFamilyHelpline@defence.gov.au for a response<br />
within 24 hours.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Defence Family Helpline will discuss with you the options<br />
for deployment support, including registration for regular DCO<br />
phone contact with the family, a support package for your<br />
children and invitations to upcoming events.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re will be regular absence from home support events<br />
throughout the year in the Darwin, Tindal and Katherine area<br />
which will also be advertised.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Helpline will link you in with the FLO or DSW at Darwin and<br />
Tindal who will assist you further.<br />
Your Local Delegate<br />
Please do not hesitate to contact me directly should you require<br />
any assistance.<br />
Laura Simpson-Helman<br />
National Delegate for Northern Territory<br />
nt@dfa.org.au<br />
www.dfa.org.au<br />
www.facebook.com/DefenceFamiliesofAustralia<br />
Infoline 1800 100 509
VVAA NT<br />
RURAL SUB BRANCH<br />
http://vvaant.org.au/ntrural/<br />
Vietnam veterans welcome veterans<br />
of all conflicts to join us at:<br />
reg Hillier House<br />
135 Bees Creek Road<br />
Freds Pass<br />
Our aims are to:<br />
promote veterans & families health & well-being<br />
pension/compensation advice by trained advocate<br />
represent Territory veterans at a National Level<br />
support local schools and community groups<br />
reg Hillier House<br />
is available for community use<br />
“Have your party at our House”<br />
For more information contact:<br />
Secretary peter mansell on 0420 469 756<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
15
16<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong>
FAQs about the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS)<br />
What services does VVCS provide?<br />
VVCS provides a specialised and confidential counselling<br />
service. Counselling can be offered as one-on-one sessions,<br />
couple’s sessions and/or family sessions. VVCS also provides<br />
group programs on topics such as anger management, anxiety<br />
management, sleeping better and improving communication<br />
in relationships. VVCS has a 24/7 telephone counselling service<br />
called Veterans Line which you can also call for assistance on<br />
1800 011 046. To find out more about VVCS services please call<br />
to speak with a Counsellor.<br />
Who can access VVCS?<br />
VVCS provides counselling nation-wide to Australian veterans,<br />
peacekeepers, and their families. Examples of recognised<br />
operational service includes deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan<br />
and East Timor. Furthermore, all current serving ADF members<br />
are able to access counselling at VVCS by seeking a referral<br />
from their Defence Medical Officers. If you are unsure of your<br />
eligibility please call us to discuss this further.<br />
What is involved in Counselling?<br />
Counselling provides people with a safe and non-judgmental<br />
environment where they can discuss any issues affecting<br />
their sense of wellbeing or daily functioning. <strong>The</strong> first stage of<br />
counselling involves your Counsellor gaining a good understanding<br />
of your concerns and working with you to set goals for counselling.<br />
As the client, you are an active participant in this process as you<br />
are the expert of your own life. <strong>The</strong> next stage involves you and<br />
your Counsellor working towards these goals. Your Counsellor is<br />
qualified and experienced to do this with you and will offer you<br />
guidance and strategies that will help you to achieve your goals.<br />
What type of concerns can I talk to a Counsellor about?<br />
VVCS Counsellors are skilled in addressing a variety of concerns<br />
that can be work-related or of a personal nature. <strong>The</strong>se include:<br />
• difficulties adjusting back to work and family life<br />
after returning from a deployment or exercise<br />
• depression<br />
• anger management<br />
• anxiety and stress management<br />
• problematic use of alcohol<br />
• gambling problems<br />
• relationship problems<br />
• traumatic experiences whilst on deployments<br />
If you are unsure whether VVCS can assist you please call us<br />
to discuss your situation. If we are unable to assist you we can<br />
provide you with information about other services that may be<br />
able to help you.<br />
What does “Confidential” mean in the context of Counselling?<br />
It is normal to feel apprehensive about discussing sensitive<br />
matters in counselling and it takes courage to do so. Be reassured<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
that all matters are discussed in strict confidence, with clients’<br />
privacy protected. Third parties are not contacted without written<br />
and informed permission of the client. In circumstances where we<br />
have concerns for your safety or the safety of others we may be<br />
required to involve other professionals. Privacy and confidentiality<br />
issues are discussed during the first session with your Counsellor.<br />
If you have any questions before your appointment you are<br />
welcome to contact VVCS to discuss your concerns.<br />
How can I make an appointment see a Counsellor?<br />
Making an appointment to see a VVCS Counsellor is as simple<br />
as picking up the telephone. When you call VVCS you will speak<br />
to an intake worker who will ask you some questions about<br />
your counselling needs. Following this conversation you will<br />
be matched to a Counsellor who will be able to assist you in<br />
meeting your goals for counselling.<br />
If you are a current serving ADF member you can also speak to<br />
your Medical Officer who will organise a referral for you to VVCS.<br />
To discuss VVCS services in more detail please call<br />
us on 1800 011 046 or 8927 9411.<br />
17
18<br />
AdvErTISINg FEATUrE<br />
On the SpOt<br />
For territory<br />
Child Care Group<br />
raising a family is challenging into today’s society<br />
and the responsibility of teaching our children<br />
life skills is challenged by the influence of television,<br />
the internet, marketing and so on. Amongst what<br />
seems like a constant offensive on families, research<br />
tells us that parents continue to have the most<br />
influence over their children.<br />
Finding time together as a family can be difficult,<br />
often our free time is busy with routine activities<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
such as shopping, swimming lessons, organised<br />
sport, music and dance lessons. <strong>The</strong>se activities<br />
along with a busy working week often leave little<br />
time to have fun with your child like kicking a ball<br />
or splashing around in the pool. Children need time<br />
with their parents. If you think back to your own<br />
childhood the memories that make you smile is the<br />
time you spent as a family doing things together,<br />
extended family gatherings, special celebrations<br />
and traditions.
Parenting experts suggest that quality family time<br />
takes practice. Resist the urge to make lots of<br />
rules, let your child take the lead, listen to your<br />
child, allow for experimenting and mistakes and<br />
finally relax and enjoy; you will be surprised at the<br />
difference it will make!<br />
Territory Child Care Group offers a range of childcare<br />
options including Darwin Family Day Care, Murraya<br />
Children’s Centre and Bees Creek Outside School<br />
Hours Care. Family Day Care can provide child care<br />
while you work, attend appointments or take time<br />
out to spend time as a couple. <strong>The</strong> hours are flexible<br />
and include outside normal working hours. Centre<br />
based care is available at our Murraya Children’s<br />
Centre where the emphasis is on learning through<br />
the natural environment. Our OSHC programs are<br />
based on play, social interaction and recreation. All<br />
programs provide safe, caring environments hat<br />
are family friendly. Our Parenting Puzzle program<br />
provides a Baby Playgroup, quarterly newsletters that<br />
are packed with parenting information and we offer<br />
hands on parenting workshops on topics to enhance<br />
your parenting skills. Contact Territory Child Care<br />
Group on 8920 0600 for more information.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
19
20<br />
Fifteen ships with about 2,000 Defence personnel from seven<br />
Pacific nations set sail from Darwin Harbour for the military<br />
training <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu <strong>12</strong> on Wednesday 29th August.<br />
Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Tim Barrett, AM,<br />
CSC, RAN, said <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu is the Royal Australian Navy’s<br />
principle multilateral exercise in Australia for 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
“We are excited to be hosting the participant nations for this<br />
exercise and I am sure everyone involved will take away great<br />
benefit from <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu,” he said.<br />
Maritime elements from Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, New<br />
Zealand, Singapore and Thailand will focus on aspects of maritime<br />
warfare common to all the forces involved. Over the 19 days of<br />
exercising, from 29 august to 14 September, graduated training<br />
activities and weapons practices will be conducted, including<br />
warfare and maritime security exercises and evolutions.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Photo Credit: ABIS James Whittle Navy Imagery Unit - North ©<br />
Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Able Seaman Cook (CK) Jessica Luke and Leading Seaman CK Adam Carey prepare pizzas for dinner aboard HMAS Darwin during<br />
<strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
ExErCISE kAkAdU 20<strong>12</strong> ShIPS SET SAIL<br />
<strong>The</strong> exercise is aimed at developing interoperability in maritime<br />
operations in a regional coalition environment.<br />
“This is a valuable opportunity for the Royal australian Navy to<br />
develop operational capability and mariner skills in a coalition<br />
environment,” Rear Admiral Barrett said.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Royal australian Navy is represented by the adelaide Class<br />
Frigate HMaS Darwin, the aNZaC Class Frigates HMa Ships<br />
Perth and Warramunga, two Mine Hunter Coastals HMa Ships<br />
Gascoyne and Huon, and the Replenishment Vessel HMAS<br />
Sirius. Royal Australian Air Force Maritime Patrol Aircraft and<br />
Strike Fighter Aircraft will also take part.<br />
<strong>The</strong> aDF has conducted a full environmental impact assessment<br />
on the region and robust measures have been put in place for<br />
participants to respect and protect the marine environment<br />
within which they will operate.
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
Photo Credit: LSIS Helen Frank Navy Imagery Unit - North<br />
© Commonwealth of Australia<br />
An Indonesian boarding party comes alongside HMAS Perth in order to conduct a mock boarding during Exericse Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong>. .<br />
Photo Credit: LSIS Helen Frank Navy Imagery Unit - North © Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Flight deck marshal, Petty Officer Steward Jason "Moo Moo" Aitken prepares to direct HMAS Darwin's Seahawk Helicopter from HMAS<br />
Perth's flight deck during <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
21
22<br />
Officer of the watch, Lieutenant Sean Bates takes a closer look at a contact from HMAS Perth's bridge as the ship departs Darwin's Fort Hill<br />
Wharf for <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong>.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Photo Credit: LSIS Helen Frank Navy Imagery Unit - North<br />
© Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Photo Credit: ABIS James Whittle Navy Imagery Unit - North ©<br />
Commonwealth of Australia<br />
Lieutenant Andrew Willett advises the boarding officer from HTMS Rattanakosin during a boarding exercise on board HMAS Darwin<br />
during <strong>Exercise</strong> Kakadu 20<strong>12</strong>.
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
23
24<br />
TS Darwin<br />
Australian Navy Cadets<br />
Come On Board!<br />
TS Darwin is a youth development organisation<br />
located at Defence Establishment Berrimah.<br />
We parade weekly on Wednesday nights and<br />
host monthly weekend camps.<br />
TS Darwin would like to welcome youth between<br />
the age of <strong>12</strong>½ and 19 interested in becoming a<br />
cadet to come along and see what we are all about.<br />
TS Darwin would also like to invite anyone<br />
interested in joining the team as a unit support<br />
volunteer or staff member to contact us.<br />
Please contact us for more information:<br />
Email: emily.williams2@cadetnet.gov.au<br />
Phone: 08 8984 3326<br />
Mobile: 0458 085 355<br />
Website: www.cadetnet.gov.au/ANC/TSDarwin<br />
Come and Try Scouting<br />
1st Berrimah<br />
Scout Group<br />
CuBS - Age 7-10.5 yrs • Tues 5:30-7pm<br />
SCouTS - Age 10.5-14.5 yrs • Tues 5:30-7pm<br />
Contact: Anthony Spedding on 0407 805 535<br />
email: gl.berrimah@nthq.scouts.com.au<br />
Lot 3326 Brandt Road, Knuckeys Lagoon, Recreational Reserve<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
love adventure and new challenges?<br />
If the answer is yes then you should<br />
come and join us at Alawa Scouts.<br />
Scouting is for both boys and girls aged<br />
6-26 years of age – starting with our<br />
Joey Scouts at just 6 years of age.<br />
We are also putting a big shout out for<br />
anybody who has previous experience<br />
working as leaders or volunteers within<br />
the Scouting Family, we need you! If you<br />
are an adult who enjoys working and<br />
challenging children then we are looking<br />
for you to become one of our leaders.<br />
Be Prepared for an adventure…<br />
Join the Scouts!<br />
For further information please contact<br />
Scout hQ on 08 8948 0994<br />
Or Email admin@nthq.scouts.com.au<br />
We want you!<br />
Girls 5-17 years old<br />
and women of all ages<br />
Our flexible Guide program enables girls<br />
and young women to grow into confident,<br />
self-respecting, responsible and responsive<br />
community members.<br />
Girl Guides promotes the development of<br />
Leadership and Life Skills.<br />
We need Leaders too! We provide on-going<br />
training - all you need is a commitment,<br />
some time each week and an interest in the<br />
development of young people. We offer<br />
lots of fun along the way - for girls and<br />
adults too!<br />
Please contact us at:<br />
Phone: 8981 3628<br />
Email: girlguidesnt@iinet.net.au
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
25
26<br />
hELLO FrOM dArWIN dCO OFFICE<br />
February 20<strong>12</strong> saw the establishment of the Defence<br />
Family Helpline. <strong>The</strong> Defence Family Helpline is the first<br />
port of call for support, information and connection<br />
with your local community and Defence Community<br />
Organisation Branch. If you require access to a specific<br />
DCO service or are seeking information and to get in<br />
contact with the local office the Defence Family Helpline<br />
is the initial contact point. <strong>The</strong> Helpline is available 24-7<br />
and is staffed by qualified human service professionals<br />
including social workers and psychologists ensuring that<br />
you can speak with a professional first time.<br />
DCO Darwin has also been involved in National Defence<br />
Community Organisation events such as the Defence<br />
Family Forum. <strong>The</strong> Defence Family Forum gave Defence<br />
families an opportunity to explore the military way of life,<br />
the future of family support, and Defence families’ role<br />
in leading and shaping the wider Australian community.<br />
Prior to this event a Family ‘World Café’ Forum was<br />
held in the Darwin area (also held within other Defence<br />
specific locations) and enabled information and matters<br />
of significance to the families located in Darwin and<br />
Palmerston to be identified and shared within the<br />
National Defence Family Forum. Information about the<br />
forum and action items are available from www.defence.<br />
gov.au/dco/Forum.html<br />
Presentations have also been held to promote the<br />
availability of FSFP funding –Family Support Funding<br />
Program for community groups and PEEP funding- Partner<br />
Education and Employment Program for individuals. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
initiatives are available nationwide through DCO and<br />
provide funding to support an array of initiatives. More<br />
information about FSFP and PEEP funding is available<br />
from the DCO website www.defence.gov.au/dco<br />
DCO Darwin also still providing support to families who<br />
have members away on deployment, exercise, course<br />
and posting out of location (MWDU). Importantly, the<br />
registration process for Deployment Support- commonly<br />
known as Absence from Home Support, has changed.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
!<br />
Members and Families should now register their support<br />
needs with the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608<br />
or by emailing deploymentsupport@defence.gov.au .<br />
It is very important to register your family as it enables<br />
you access to an array of services and friendly catch<br />
up opportunities from the Tindal DCO office. Without<br />
registrations we will be unable to provide events and<br />
functions for families with deployed members. Further<br />
information can be found within the Tindal Community<br />
Times or online at www.defence.gov.au/dco .<br />
If you have any immediate questions or concerns please call<br />
the Defence Family Helpline – remember they are open<br />
24-7 so there is never a wrong time to call.<br />
DCO Darwin (and Tindal) currently host a number<br />
of functions that help to connect and support the<br />
Defence families located in our community. Details are<br />
as below:<br />
Absent from Home Functions: (Deployment Support)<br />
DCO Darwin Family Support Functions for families with<br />
Members absent are held as various events and over<br />
various dates throughout the year (Pending registrations<br />
and attending numbers).<br />
With upcoming Military events that may see many<br />
spouses depart for a period of time please see over the<br />
page to register for absence From Home Support and<br />
DCO will be in contact.<br />
For further details please contact the Defence Family<br />
Helpline on 1800 624 608<br />
Keep Up To Date - Join the DCO Community Email<br />
Databases<br />
Would you like to receive DCO assistance information via<br />
email? DCO Darwin have a community email database<br />
that enables us to email information such as upcoming<br />
community activities, DCO activities, news for the
Defence community and groups, as well as information<br />
flyers for what’s happening around the place.<br />
If you want to receive this information and be kept up to<br />
date with what’s happening in Darwin and Palmerston,<br />
please register your email address with us at: dco.darwin<br />
@defence.gov.au<br />
a group of Defence families from across australia<br />
gathered at Sydney’s Darling Harbour recently for a<br />
three-day forum to explore the military way of life<br />
and the future of family support.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Defence Family Forum was hosted by the Defence<br />
Community Organisation (DCO). It offered families<br />
the opportunity to shape the support they need from<br />
both Defence and the civilian community and to offer<br />
practical solutions to the demands of service life.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Director General of the DCO, Michael Callan,<br />
says the forum explored the theme ‘strong families,<br />
strong communities, strong Defence’.<br />
“We wanted to use the experiences of real Defence<br />
families to examine how they can overcome the<br />
challenges and make the most of the opportunities<br />
presented by the military way of life, Michael says.<br />
“And this leads into their role in connecting with<br />
and leading the wider Australian community.<br />
Through a series of participant-driven workshops and<br />
open discussions, Defence families worked together<br />
to come up with a range of ideas and strategies to<br />
support the unique needs of military families.<br />
“We have recorded each idea as a discrete project<br />
and DCO will support local groups of Defence families<br />
to manage and implement these projects over the<br />
coming months, Michael says.<br />
“This support will involve linking the family action<br />
groups with local community groups to gain<br />
additional assistance when they need it.<br />
Project ideas included building a centralised website<br />
We look forward to meeting with you soon and we<br />
encourage you to make contact with us if you need any<br />
assistance linking in with the community or are having<br />
difficulties settling in.<br />
Best wishes, Defence Community Organisation team!<br />
FAMILIES TAkE COMMANd<br />
BY MIRANDA BALL DCO HEADQUARTERS- CANBERRA<br />
to help families become familiar with new posting<br />
locations, establishing a group of experienced<br />
Defence partners to mentor newer Defence partners,<br />
and building community gardens for mobile families.<br />
Michael says DCO will use the thoughts, ideas and<br />
information that it has collected from the forum to<br />
engage Defence and civilian community organisations<br />
in collective support of Defence families.<br />
“<strong>The</strong> next step is to host a Defence Community<br />
Forum, later in 20<strong>12</strong>, he explains.<br />
“This will build on the projects and ideas established<br />
during the Defence Family Forum, and will help<br />
stakeholders in both the Defence and civilian<br />
communities to understand their role in the support<br />
of Defence families. This will let them develop and<br />
formalise strategies to address the needs that our<br />
families have identified.
28<br />
SOLDIERS'<br />
TALES<br />
#2<br />
a collection of true stories from<br />
Aussie Soldiers<br />
By Denny Neave<br />
What readers are saying.... “<strong>The</strong> individual<br />
style of each story teller lends itself to easy<br />
reading , as a matter of fact, it was hard to<br />
put down. One can relate to the stories told,<br />
especially to those who have served in the<br />
defence force past and present.. I enjoyed its<br />
content immensley!”Damien immensley!” Finlayson<br />
Soldiers’ Tales 2 is a unique collection of personal<br />
accounts told by soldiers or relatives who have lived<br />
with their stories. Spanning the period from World<br />
War I through to the conflicts of the modern era, these<br />
stories are a mixture of the humorous and the intensely<br />
emotional. This collection is unmistakably Australian and<br />
is a combination of larrikin yarns and other more serious<br />
stories that tell of tragedy and often unspoken pain.<br />
Soldiers’ Tales 2 paints a vivid picture of the soldier’s<br />
life, both in war and peace. Including tales such as the<br />
moment of victory in battle, celebrated with the raising<br />
of a battered slouch hat in lieu of a flag, the poignancy<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong><br />
of Anzac Day in the devastated war cemetery of battlescarred<br />
Baghdad, and the stark letters from diggers in<br />
Timor coping with the aftermath of a national tragedy,<br />
these stories showcase both the sad and the uplifting,<br />
while also capturing the often laconic humour of the<br />
Aussie digger.<br />
<strong>The</strong> stories within Soldiers’ Tales 2 will warm the heart,<br />
bring a smile to the face or a tear to the eye. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
tales will appeal to all ages, offering younger readers a<br />
fascinating insight into the mind of the soldier at war. <strong>The</strong><br />
book is stylishly presented and designed for easy reading,<br />
the perfect gift book for all ages.<br />
New Releases from Big Sky Publishing...<br />
rrp: $29.99 rrp: $29.99 rrp: $29.99<br />
Available at all good book stores or online at www.bigskypublishing.com.au
DUST DONKEYS AND<br />
DELUSIONS<br />
<strong>The</strong> Myth of Simpson and his Donkey Exposed<br />
Graham Wilson<br />
Dust, Donkey’s and Delusion,<br />
is a divisive book that examines<br />
and clinically shatters the legend<br />
surrounding the quintessential<br />
Australian ‘hero’ of Gallipoli, Private<br />
John Simpson Kirkpatrick the ‘Man<br />
with the Donkey’.<br />
<strong>The</strong> evidence uncovered by author<br />
Graham Wilson in this controversial<br />
new book does little to sustain the<br />
campaign of those seeking a VC for<br />
Simpson.<br />
Conducting in-depth research on<br />
Simpson in his role with the Department<br />
of Defence’s Directorate of Honours<br />
and Awards, author Graham Wilson<br />
discovered historical documents,<br />
official and unofficial, revealed that<br />
just about every word written and<br />
spoken about Simpson posthumously<br />
are almost entirely false. Wilson was<br />
determined to set the record straight;<br />
“I wrote the book as an attempt<br />
to, firstly, strip away the layers of<br />
mistruths, half-truths and lies that<br />
surround Simpson and reveal the real<br />
man. Secondly, I wanted to debunk<br />
the myth that Simpson was the only<br />
medical soldier at Gallipoli to put his<br />
life on the line time and time again to<br />
save wounded men. Thirdly, I wanted<br />
to address and comprehensively<br />
demolish the ridiculous “VC for<br />
Simpson” campaign that has developed<br />
over the years and is still active today<br />
and if successful would result in the<br />
decoration of a myth, not a man.”<br />
Far from criticising John Simpson<br />
Kirkpatrick – the man, Wilson<br />
recognises that he was a good soldier<br />
and the work he did at Gallipoli was<br />
valuable. However, he points out that<br />
Simpson was no more or less brave<br />
than any other man at Gallipoli and<br />
the ‘myth of Simpson’ needs to be<br />
corrected.<br />
Dust, Donkeys and Delusion sets<br />
out to correct the historical record<br />
around Simpson and rehabilitate<br />
the memory of other soldiers whose<br />
bravery and sacrifice at Gallipoli has<br />
been overshadowed by the myth<br />
of Simpson.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong> <strong>Tri</strong>-Services Magazine Incorporated<br />
Book Pack<br />
Competition!<br />
WIN a copy of<br />
Crumps and<br />
Camouflets &<br />
Beyond Adversity<br />
Thank you to Big Sky Publishing<br />
www.bigskypublishing.com.au<br />
for these great book giveaways!<br />
Dust Donkeys and Delusions: $34.99<br />
Soldiers': $34.99<br />
Available at all good<br />
book stores or online at<br />
www.bigskypublishing.com.au<br />
To enter our book<br />
competition:<br />
Post entry to: <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong><br />
PO Box 35874<br />
Winnellie NT 0821<br />
or email your details to:<br />
thetopender@aapt.net.au<br />
Name<br />
_____________________<br />
Address<br />
_____________________<br />
_____________________<br />
_____________________<br />
_____________________<br />
Phone Number<br />
_____________________<br />
Entries close 5 November 2010<br />
29
30<br />
WIN 2x Adult pAsses for eNtRY<br />
& 'CAGe OF deAtH eXpeRIeNCe'<br />
thanks to CROCOsAuRus COve<br />
For your chance to WIN this fantastic prize for<br />
two adults, find this Crocodile image within<br />
the magazine and tell us what page it is on.<br />
entrants must be 18yrs or over!<br />
NAME: ______________________________<br />
ANSWER: Page Number _______________<br />
ADDRESS: ___________________________<br />
____________________________________<br />
________________________P/C _________<br />
PHONE: _____________________________<br />
MOBILE: _____________________________<br />
EMAIL: ______________________________<br />
Entries close Tuesday 23 October 20<strong>12</strong><br />
Post to: PO Box 35874, Winnellie, NT 0821<br />
Email to: thetopender@aapt.net.au<br />
Winners will be notified by post/phone<br />
and announced in <strong>The</strong> <strong>Top</strong> <strong>Ender</strong>.<br />
August / September 20<strong>12</strong>
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