The Top Ender Magazine October November 2021 Edition

The Top
Ender
Tri-Services Magazine Inc
OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2021
KAKADU CALLING
SNAP UP A BARGAIN THIS
SUMMER, PLUS OUR BIGGEST
COMPETITION EVER!
WORLD TEACHER DAY, MANGO
MADNESS FESTIVAL, MILLION
DOLLAR FISH, SURVIVING THE
BUILD UP AND SO MUCH MORE!
A MAGAZINE CREATED BY DEFENCE FAMILIES FOR DEFENCE FAMILIES

THE TOP ENDER TRI-SERVICE MAGAZINE
October/November 2021
COVER IMAGE: Tourism NT/Sam Earp
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Chairperson Emma Thom | chair@thetopendermagazine.org.au
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General Members Deb Herring, Gracie Summerell, Rebecca Kenyon,
Amanda Letcher
CONTACT US
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FEATURES
04 KAKADU CALLING
06 BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
07 NATIONAL TRUST NT
08 105 TH RAA ANNIVERSARY
09 PAT DELANY’S LUCKY ESCAPE!
37 A HEADSTONE FOR CLP PRENTICE
SUPPORT
20 DEFENCE MEMBER + FAMILY SUPPORT
22 DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS
24 SOLDIER ON
25 DEFENCE FAMILIES AUSTRALIA
26 MEET YOUR DSM - HOLY SPIRIT
27 LARRAKEYAH NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE
28 THE PILBARA REGIMENT
29 CHAT WITH THE CHAPLAIN
31 1 ST BERRIMAH SCOUTS UNIT
34 BILLEROY HOUSE
COMMUNITY
10 EFFECTIVE RESUME DESIGN
11 TOP END JOBS BOARD
12 10 RELOCATION HACKS
13 DRHM POSTING UPDATE
15 MANGO MADNESS
16 STARTING A PIGGY BANK
17 TEST YOUR TRIVIA + TRIVIA NIGHTS
18 PRINCES TRUST
32 LUDMILLA PRIMARY STAR STUDENTS
33 TALES OF A TOP END MUM
35 GROM
36 BROTHERS N BOOKS - BOOK REVIEW
38 COMMITTEE NOTICEBOARD
39 WHAT’S ON
CONTENTS
40 HOME BUSINESS HERO
41 COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE DIRECTORY
42 CYCLONE PREPARATION
46 SURVIVING THE BUILD UP
53 POSTING WITH PETS
54 THE ‘PURRFECT’ COMPANION
58 CRAIG’S FISHING
59 HEY THERE, BIRDY
62 HANDY DIRECTORY
SPOTLIGHT
KAKADU CALLING + KAKADU COMPETITION - PG 4
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH - P6
105 th RAA ANNIVERSARY - PG 8
WORLD TEACHER DAY - P48
COMPETITIONS
KAKADU TOURISM TRIP - PG 5
PAMPER HAMPER GIVEAWAY - PG 14
ADVENTURE HAMPER GIVEAWAY - PG 14
ART PACK - PG 44
WIN FOR YOUR TEACHER - PG 48
LIFESTYLE
SLEEP WELL - P 47
REDUCE STRESS NATURALLY - P 49
DOCTOR’S NOTE - PG 50
CHIROPRACTIC LIFE - PG 51
PETS IN DARWIN - PG 52
FISHING IN THE BUILD UP - PG 56
WHATS THE TIDE DOING? - PG 57
MOSQUITO WATCH - PG 57
KIDS + TEENS
ART THERAPY FOR ALL AGES - P44
BUILD UP ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS - P45
TALENTED DEFENCE KIDS - P46
KIDS CORNER - PG 60
HALLOWEEN RECIPE - PG 61
FROM THE COMMITTEE
WIN a Holiday to Kakadu with Kakadu Tourism Photo: Tourism NT
IMPORTANT DATES
SUBMISSION DEADLINE
If you wish to submit an article, event, photo,
advertisement or would like to contribute some
ideas for the next edition of The Top Ender
Magazine, please contact us. Submission Deadline
for Dec/Jan edition is: 13th October 2021.
DISTRIBUTION DAYS
Distribution Day is a chance for you to meet our
community and make new friends, while we label the
magazine for posting. Light refreshments are
provided and children are always welcome. Follow
us on Facebook or visit our website to find out
more.
MONTHLY MEETING
Come along to our next committee meeting where
we finalise article selections, discuss community work
and magazine planning. You can input as much or as
little as you like. Light dinner is provided and children
are always welcome. Each meeting is held on the last
Tuesday of each month.
2021: 26 October, 30 November.
Contact admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
for further details.
OCTOBER NOVEMBER 2021
WELCOME
It’s official. It’s the build-up again! It may be hot and
humid, but with these sweaty days we can hope for
some spectacular thunderstorms soon!
Get ready for the next round of Territory Tourism
vouchers out in early October. We’ve collaborated
with Kakadu Tourism to bring you a guide to
exploring the region, plus we have the most
amazing Kakadu experience to giveaway!
November sees the beginning of the Cyclone
season, and in the lead up to Christmas there are
still lots of things to do in the Top End, so take a
look and start planning your Wet season today!
Happy reading!
Photo: 105 th RAA Anniversary Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au - pg 8
Photo: DMFS Katherine Mosaic Class. By Sarah Jacka, Family Liaison Officer - pg 21
Photo: DVA Reflecting on Remembrance Day
Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au - pg 22
W2 WTheW.T Top Ender H E | TTri-Services O P E NMagazine D E RIncorporated M A G A Z I N E . O R G . A U
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 3

A trip to Kakadu in summer is one of the
most awe-inspiring travel experiences
available in Australia.
This is the season when Kakadu puts on a
spectacular nature show every day. Think
waterfalls at their most thunderous, animal life
at its wildest, and barramundi with million-dollar
tags just waiting to be caught.
Kakadu is the ultimate bucket list destination.
Stunning scenery, 65,000 years of incredible
living culture and unforgettable touring
experiences.
With the launch of the latest round of the
Territory Tourism Voucher scheme, this is the
perfect time to tick Kakadu off the bucket list
and follow in the footsteps of Mick ‘Crocodile’
Dundee.
Kakadu is less than three hours’ drive from
Darwin, and with good roads throughout,
it is an easy destination to get around and
discover ancient rock art, cruise amongst
the crocs on Yellow Water Billabong and
go on treks to great vantage points and
cooling water holes.
The two major accommodation bases in
Kakadu - the famous Mercure Kakadu
Crocodile Hotel (aka ‘The Croc’) and
Cooinda Lodge - are offering some great
special offers over summer.
And with the money saved, you can splash
out on a Kakadu Air scenic flight that shows
the landscape at its most rugged and dramatic.
KAKADU
CALLING
With special rates,Territory discount travel vouchers and the Million Dollar
Fish competition underway, what more incentive do you need to visit one of
Australia’s most spectacular landscapes?
You get a full appreciation of the grandeur of
Kakadu National Park from a bird’s eye point of
view.
And, on the subject of birds, summer is a good
time to view large numbers of the 250 bird
species that call Kakadu home. You’ll see
everything from the graceful sea eagles and
whistling kites to the tiny, vivid kingfishers and
jacanas, known colloquially as ‘Jesus Birds’
because of their seeming ability to walk on
water.
With water in such plentiful quantities over
summer, Kakadu’s waterways provide the most
popular activities for visitors.
Yellow Water Cruises operates throughout the
season and their dawn and dusk services are
brilliant for both dramatic scenery and
abundant wildlife.
It’s hard to imagine that crocodiles were driven
close to extinction until protected in the 1970s,
because on most Yellow Water Cruises you’ll
see a dozen or so crocs staking out their
domain. In fact, there are so many crocs that
you often get to see savage fights as younger
males try to muscle in (often unwisely) on older
rivals.
The knowledgeable guides bring to life the
destination, its Indigenous heritage and its
abundant, rich wildlife. They will spot
crocs at a hundred metres, buffalo, wild
horses and pigs, birds hiding in canopies
and even snakes on branches that look
just like…branches.
Nourlangie Rock, which provided the backdrop
to Mick and Sue’s first night in Kakadu. You’ll
remember the scene at Angbangbang Billabong,
when Mike 'shaves' with his knife, and Sue
decides to ignore his warnings and sets off on
her own.
Nourlangie Rock is of great importance
to Kakadu’s indigenous people and the rock art
– that is exceptionally well preserved and
presented – was central to Kakadu being
declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
There is more Indigenous art and culture to be
discovered at the Bowali Visitor Centre and
Warradjan Cultural Centre, a hands-on cultural
museum that tells the story of Kakadu from a
local Indigenous perspective.
There are many who rightfully consider Kakadu
a million-dollar destination, but for those who
also fancy returning home with a million dollars
in their pocket, bring a fishing rod and you
might hook a million-dollar barramundi in
Yellow Water Billabong or one of the other
tributaries.
The Million Dollar Fish Competition is now in
its seventh year and is in play till the end of
March, but no one has yet hooked a $1 million
tagged barra. Many of the $10,000 tagged fish
have been caught in Kakadu, particularly Yellow
Water Billabong, and even if you fail to catch a
tagged barra, just order a barra dish from the
menus at Escarpment Restaurant at The Croc
or Mimi’s at Cooinda, and it will taste like a
million dollars.
Take advantage of the
Territory Voucher Scheme by registering
at territoryvoucher.nt.gov.au for a $200
voucher, then once you receive your
voucher code, make your booking at
www.tourismtopend.com.au for stays up
till January 2022. Conditions apply.
Packages at Cooinda and Mercure Kakadu
Crocodile Hotel offer additional discounts
of up to $240 per package. Check these
packages out in detail at:
www.kakadutourism.com
Family Fun at Cooinda Kakadu: Two night
stay at Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, including
breakfast daily, $50 BP Fuel Voucher to be
used at Cooinda Lodge, four seats on the
Yellow Water Cruise, $100 dining credit to be
used in Mimi’s Restaurant. Price from $819 for
a family of four.
WIN
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is located in
Jabiru and offering quality accommodation, leisure
facilities, Ochre art gallery, and dining at
Escarpment Restaurant.
Double the Fun in Kakadu!: One night at each of
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and Cooinda
Lodge, including breakfast daily, a Yellow Water
Cruise and dining credit for $100 at The Croc’s
Escarpment Restaurant. Prices from $659 per
couple and $819 per family of four.
Fish For The Million in Kakadu!:
Two night stay at Cooinda Lodge
Kakadu, including breakfast daily,
$50 BP Fuel Voucher to be used at
Cooinda Lodge, $100 Dining
credit to be used in Mimi’s
Restaurant, and a Yellow Water
Fishing Tour. Prices from $889 per
couple & $1244 per family of four.
Live It Up In Kakadu!: Two nights’
accommodation including breakfast at
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, a onehour
scenic flight with Kakadu Air, a
Yellow Water Cruise, and a four-course
degustation Kakadu Style dinner with a
bottle of wine. Price from $1259 per
couple.
Cooinda Lodge offers fully air-conditioned lodge rooms,
glamping tents and extensive camping areas next door
to Yellow Water Billabong. With two cooling swimming
pools, restaurants, a general store and petrol services,
Cooinda is the perfect base for exploring Kakadu.
Kakadu Christmas Cooinda: Two night stay from
24 to 26 December at Cooinda Lodge, with
breakfast daily, with a gourmet seafood
and traditional Christmas buffet lunch.
Prices from $799 per couple &
$999 per family of four.
Christmas in Kakadu Croc Style!: Two
nights’ accommodation from 24-26
December, including breakfast daily, a
gourmet seafood and traditional Christmas
buffet with a three-hour beverage package.
In room mince pies and bottle of sparkling
wine, and every child will receive a present
from Santa, who will make a special visit.
Prices from $719 per couple and from
$839 for a family of four.
For full details of packages, itineraries and booking information visit www.kakadutourism.com or call 08 8979 9000
(Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel) or 08 8979 1500 (Cooinda Lodge). All packages are subject to availability.
Cruising on Kakadu’s waterways
entranced David Attenborough some
60 years ago, much as it did Paul Hogan
in the 1980s, leading to what is still
regarded as one of Australia’s most
Huge storms on most evenings
renowned films on the world stage, Crocodile
provide a remarkable light show and the
Dundee.
downpours fuel waterfalls such as Jim Jim and
TERMS: Valued at $1500 per couple or $2400 per family of four. Open to ages 18 and over.
Twin Falls, which become a real force of nature Kakadu was undoubtedly a star of that film, and
Email your answer, name, age and phone number to admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au before
when viewed from the air.
you can follow Hoges to destinations such as
25th October 2021 to be in the draw. Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced
in the next edition of The Top Ender.
4 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 5

Breast Cancer Awareness Month
As October is Breast Cancer Awareness
month, I thought I would share my
experience. It may just save someone’s life.
Just over 5 years ago, I was diagnosed with breast
cancer. It was hard to believe – no family history, I
didn’t feel any lumps or have any symptoms. Thank
goodness my GP insisted on a thorough baseline
health check. I was 45 years old, still relatively young,
but as I was approaching midlife, a baseline would
provide a good basis to detect any deterioration in
my health.
I went for my first mammogram with Breast Screen
Queensland mobile service. Coincidentally, it
happened to be my late father’s birthday. I underwent
the screening, but the technician wasn’t happy with
the first take, so she repeated the right breast.
“As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month,
I urge all women to go have their checks. My GP
saved my life!”
A few days later, I had a call from Breast Screen
Queensland, asking me to arrange an appointment as
soon as possible – a four hour appointment at that. I
really didn’t know what to think, but considered it
precautionary.
So I arrived at my appointment, undergoing a repeat
mammogram and ultrasound to confirm their
prognosis. Yes, there was a lump, so the next
procedure was to have a biopsy taken.
About a week later, I was asked to return for the
results. I was confident it was anything but a tumour.
As I walked from the reception area towards the
doctor’s office, a nurse followed the doctor in. It
suddenly hit me that something was wrong.
They found a 9mm by 5mm tumour. I was assured
this was an early diagnosis and the treatment would
be fairly straight forward - a lumpectomy, followed by
a round of radio therapy and chemotherapy.
Within a couple of weeks, I was referred to the
Mater Adult Hospital South Brisbane, Breast and
Endochrine Specialists. My appointment was
scheduled in July for a lumpectomy. It had been
some time since I had been admitted in hospital, so
of course I was a little on edge.
The procedure went well, a scar about 5cm on the
right side of my breast, plus a 2cm incision under my
arm pit where they inspected the lymph nodes,
pumping them with blue dye.
A couple of days later, my specialist called. They got
all of the tumour, but the surrounding tissue was
volatile and would turn to cancer within 5 years if it
wasn’t removed. So another appointment was
booked a week later.
They reopened my scarline, to remove more tissue.
Again, the margin wasn’t satisfactory. So, went in the
following week to have another shot, and low and
behold the margin was not clear. I remember as I was
being prepped for this operation, one of the nurses
said to me that if this fails, the next step is a
mastectomy. I guess I fobbed it off - things like this
don’t happen to people like me.
After much consultation with the Breast and
Endochrine surgeon and plastic surgeon, I decided to
have a TRAM - Transverse rectus abdominus
myocutaneous flap breast reconstruction which
involved MRI to determine whether I had suitable
tissue and blood vessels to reconstruct a breast.
On the 13 October 2016, I went to the Mater for an
8 hour operation. A mastectomy and full
reconstruction. I spent one week in hospital with
drains from my breast and my abdomen. I will never
forget the pain and discomfort of getting out of bed
with the Hospital physio, drains in a plastic bag, to
start moving. It took me the best part of 5 minutes to
walk around the ward, which would take you a
minute in fine health. Six weeks later, I was back at
work.
When we posted to Darwin in 2018, I opted to
remain under the care of the Mater, travelling to
Brisbane twice a year for follow up appointments
with surgeon, plastic surgeon and oncology. I am
pleased to say that as of 28 June 2021, I was officially
discharged – I just need to complete my medication
until the end of November 2021.
As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I
urge all women to go have their checks. My GP
saved my life!
Written by Deb Muir
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
NATIONAL TRUST NT
The National Trust of Australia (NT)
has undergone some changes in 2020
and has hit the ground running in 2021.
Locations across Darwin, Pine Creek and
Katherine offer opportunities to engage with
the history, cultural and environment in the NT.
Experience a railway discovery adventure at the
Old Katherine Railway Station and Pine Creek
Railway Precinct, learn about the gold rush at
Pine Creek at the Pine creek Museum that
sparked a population boom and enticed
migrants to the Top End, enjoy the ambience of
the O’Keeffe House gardens situated along the
Katherine River, learn about the development
and infrastructure of Darwin at the
Roadmasters House at the Darwin Waterfront
and soak in the 1930s ambience at the Myilly
Point Heritage Precinct in Larrakeyah.
Offering a range of self-guided and guided
tours, linger longer and experience preserved
treasures of NT ingenuity, architecture, and
practicality.
If you are searching for the perfect Territory
gift, our gift store at Audit House in the Myilly
Point Heritage Precinct and online shop offers a
smorgasbord of unique products, made in or
from Territory materials. https://
www.nationaltrustntstore.com/
Our Facebook and Instagram pages are
continuously updated with our latest events and
promotions, so be sure to follow us
@nationaltrustnt.
6 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 7

8th/12th Regiment Celebrates The Royal
Australian Artillery’s 150th Anniversary
Pat Delaney’s
Lucky Escape!
F/O Nav. Pat Delaney of 31
Beaufighter SQN RAAF .
Photo: Gunner Dylan Austin from 101st Battery, 8th/12th Regiment, Royal
Australian Artillery fires an M777A2 Howitzer, during the Australia wide
synchronised shoot for the 150th Anniversary Of Continuous Australian
Artillery Forces. Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
On August 1st, 2021, 8th/12th Regiment, had the
honour of live-firing a 150-round gun salute with
their M777 Howitzers at Mount Bundey Training
Area in the Northern Territory.
The occasion: The 150th Anniversary of Royal Australian Artillery.
Gun crews took up their positions to partake in a nation-wide
fireplan - a synchronised salute to mark this significant milestone.
Commanding Officer of the 8th/12th Regiment, RAA, Lieutenant
Colonel Trevor Watson, spoke to the significance of the event:
On his first mission, Pat Delaney had
confirmed a kill, but crashed landed on his
return to RAAF base Darwin, where The
Narrows is today. Although they had
escaped danger in the sky, their troubles
were not over. A passing sapper by the
name of Mr Hickman, informed them that
they had crash landed straight into a mine
field. After a long and anxious wait for
further investigation, it was discovered that
white ants had destroyed the integrity of
the mines and they failed to detonate.
The SQN motto was NON CIRCUM
COIMUS, which roughly translates to
DON'T F.... ABOUT.
Written by Peter Delaney
Community Contributor
Delaney’s Country and Western Store, Darwin City
Photos: Pat Delaney and P/O Garnham stationed at Coomalie Creek.
Photo: Gunner Tyler Kirkpatrick from 101st Battery,
8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery,
confirms the charge for a M777A2 Howitzer.
Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
“The Royal Australian Artillery has a rich history of service. As a
Regiment, it has faced countless challenges and earned a
hardened reputation. I have absolute faith that this legacy will
continue into the distant future having observed the men and
women dedicated to its cause,” Lieutenant Colonel Watson said.
Each year, the Regiment has the honour of re-enacting the
Bombing of Darwin with a ceremonial dry-fire activity held in
Darwin City, which presents an opportunity to recognise the
contribution of artillery to the nation.
“While much has changed over the past 150 years, the
dedication, skill and willingness of our men and women in the
Regiment, has never wavered. We are 150 years young, and a
dynamic and demanding future lies ahead – the capability and
organisational changes to the Regiment are exciting. The live-fire
activity was not only to honour the past, but to look forward to
the future,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Watson.
The Royal Australian Artillery remains a vital part of Australian
Army’s joint land combat capability, at the forefront of the
Australian Army’s modernisation program, with 8/12 Regt having
recently received software upgrades to AFATDS and the
M777A2 Howitzer, as well as recent trials with new digital
equipment for Joint Fires Teams.
Written by LT Mitchell Axon
8th/12th Regiment RAA
Have You Heard About
Coomalie Creek Airfield?
Coomalie Creek Airfield was a Royal
Australian Air Force (RAAF) airfield built in
1942.Today, it is still known as the township
of Coomalie Creek with a rich history
relating to World War II. The Coomalie
Creek airfield is still an active World War 2
airfield, located approximately 90 kms south
of Darwin and 15 kms from Batchelor
airfield.
When 31SQN arrived at Coomalie Creek with their
Beaufighters in November 1942, there were very
limited amenities and resources available. Construction
of the airfield had just been completed and a number
of workmen were still finishing off earthworks and a
few essential camp buildings. During this time,
manoeuvring aircraft was especially dangerous due to
the added risk of colliding with machinery or workmen
who were working alongside the airfield.
Following their arrival at Coomalie Creek, each
squadron member erected their own tent and dug
their own trench, which was their own ‘patch’ for the
duration of their tour. In the very early stages, the only
essential buildings included a small mess area, a couple
of basic cookhouses and a storeroom. Buildings were
upgraded and added over time, which made the
Coomalie Creek area more comfortable for military
personnel.
In the following months, a tent was erected as a makeshift
chapel until a chapel was constructed in between tasks.
The original chapel was destroyed by fire, white ants and
the elements over the years following the war, however,
in 1992, a replica was built on the very same spot by the
present owner of the land, Richard Luxton. The chapel is
still used for annual events and commemorations, which
are well worth a visit.
For more information about the remarkable history of
Coomalie Creek and 31SQN, visit: - https://
31squadronassociation.com.au/coomalie-creek/
Written by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
8 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 9

Effective Resume Design
Top End Jobs Board
Will your current resume get you past the first
challenge when applying for a job?
Did you know that recruiters and employers will spend an
estimate of between 6-8 seconds reviewing your resume?
This can sound so deflating when you have spent countless
hours tweaking and producing what you feel is a
masterpiece. So, lets look at what can make your resume
get noticed and less likely to be rejected.
The right amount of text
Make sure your resume is not intimidating and
overwhelming with a wall of text. There needs to be white
space to increase the impact of your words and to help
with navigation. The effect of white space can be
demonstrated by looking at the front page of Resume A
and Resume B (note: image contains jumbled word content,
created for visual effect only). The design of incorporating
white space into the front page of Resume A would make it
easier to scan at a quick glance, when compared to the
block text on the front page of Resume B.
Eye tracking studies by the Nielson Norman Group in 2006
found that people scan content using an F–shaped pattern
of scanning. The F’ shaped layout mimics our natural pattern
of reading with our eyes trained to start at the top-left
corner and then scan horizontally. We then drop down to
the next line doing the same until we find something that
catches our attention.
In the images below of eye tracking by the Nielson Norman
Group, red shows where readers mostly looked, yellow
fewer views, blue least viewed and grey areas with no
viewing at all.
Choose a standard font
When choosing a font for your resume, standard fonts of
11-12pt are recommended. Examples include: Calibri, Arial,
Helvetica, Cambria, Verdana, Georgia. These fonts
make for easy reading and ensure that the
alignment of your resume will be the same on the
recruiter’s computer, as the standard font will be
installed. It will also allow for computer based
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to be able to
read your resume.
Calibri
Arial
Helvetica
Finally, what not to include
Cambria
Verdana
Georgia
There are a few things that you should not include in your
resume design such as: graphics, logos, tables, text boxes,
a photo of yourself, headers/footers. Mainly theses items
will interfere with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and
these computer programs will be unable to read your
resume (more on this in a future article).
For anyone in the Defence community who is currently
updating and writing their resume, good luck and I hope
these tips are useful.
If you are defence partner, you may be eligible to access
up to $1,500 worth of career counselling and
employment assistance through the Partner Employment
Assistance Program (PEAP), with no upfront costs.
If you would like to know more or you wish to discuss
how I can assist you through PEAP, please feel free to
email me: prueatcareers@gmail.com.
Written by Prue Atkins
Community Contributor, Tindal
The Top Ender Magazine
ARE YOU OUR NEXT COMMUNITY COORDINATOR?
The Community Co-Ordinator oversees the day-to-day
operations of the organisation and ensures that it operates in
accordance with the Committees decisions, constitution,
relevant legislation and funding requirements.
We’re looking for a self-motivated, organised and reliable
person with exceptional communication skills and strong office
and bookkeeping skills. You will have the ability to work
independently, meet strict deadlines, support the Committee
and be a positive contributor to the team who will champion
the NT and the unique lifestyle it affords its residents.
This is a Part-Time position based at our child-friendly office
on Defence Establishment Berrimah, with the flexibility to
SOLDIER ON PATHWAYS PROGRAM
This is a FREE activity for Soldier On participants (including current and exserving
members or the ADF or first responders). Learn more information
about career and education opportunities within the NT. For more
information and to register your interest please email nt@soldieron.org.au
Wednesday 27 October 2021 | 5:30pm - 7:00pm | Darwin Sailing Club
VOLUNTEERING
As we approach the end of the year, many organisations will
be actively seeking new volunteers to join them. We would
love you to consider The Top Ender Magazine if you are
searching for a way to contribute to your community.
For more information, including the unique benefits available
to our volunteers, please visit
www.thetopendermagazine.org.au/volunteer
work from home on occasion. Initially this role will be shared
with our outgoing coordinator, to facilitate a supportive
handover of duties and adequate training.
The salary is above award rate, negotiable based on your
experiences, with incentivised bonuses which are negotiable
upon increase in revenue, fundraising generation, and
performance reviews.
For more information, please contact our Chairperson at
chair@thetopendermagazine.org.au
ARE YOU POSTING OUT?
If you’re job position is becoming vacant
and you would like to advertise it here,
please send us the position advert to
admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Know a Defence-friendly employer?
Ask them to advertise their roles with us!
$100
COMMUNITY
CONTRIBUTOR
VOUCHER
10 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 11

10 Relocation Hacks
So, it’s that time of the year again when some of us
are packing our homes and relocating! Although it
can be a stressful time, we have pulled together a
number of ‘relocation hacks’ to make life a lot
easier during the transition!
SAFE PLACE
It’s a great idea to book an extra night of accommodation at
your own cost the night before pre-pack to allow enough time
to wash bedlinen and towels prior to uplift. This also provides
an opportunity to remove all items that will travel with you to
avoid packing your necessities by accident.
DECLUTTER
Start early. Try selling some things or donate to an Op Shop in
the lead up to your removal. Not only will you have less things
to unpack, but it is also good for your wellbeing to have less
clutter in your home. If you can’t part with things prior to your
removal, dedicate a couple of boxes and clearly label with
‘clutter’ to give you time to sort out in your new location.
PREVENT MOULD
When moving appliances, it always helps to store a dry toilet
roll in each compartment to help reduce mould during storage
and transportation.
HOUSE TOUR
Prior to commencing any pre-packing or removal, it’s a great
idea to conduct a house tour with the removal team to explain
anything that they need to know. This is a perfect opportunity
to identify anything you do not want packed (ie; your lunch or
handbag – it has happened) or to point out any items that
require extra special care (ie; canvas paintings, antiques etc).
COLOUR CODING
Have you thought about colouring coding your rooms and
boxes to make unpacking a breeze? Simply select a different
coloured tape for each room and label boxes as the
removalists pack. You can also put tape on furniture to help
the unpack team in your new location. To simply the process
even further, count the number of boxes for each colour code
to ensure that each box is accounted for when being unloaded
from the truck. This is much easier than searching for labels
and gives your unpack team a clear idea of which boxes need
to go to which room.
PERSONAL DOCUMENTS
Organise a separate carry case to store important personal
documents (passports, birth certificates, insurance policies),
movement plan letter, boarding passes etc., which can be taken
with you when you travel.
TEMPORARY TABLES
When you opt for the unpack option with your removal
company, they are only contracted to unpack all items to a
flat surface. If you are like most of us who require a few
days to fully unpack, consider the option of a couple of
foldable tables that can be used for unpacking. This also
helps to keep your dining table and bench space
uncluttered and clear for everyday use. Ask the removalists
to place the tables in the truck last to ensure they are first
off the truck in your new location.
‘FIRST NIGHT’ BOX
It is such a simple idea but packing yourself a “first night
box” will help to make your first night in your new home a
lot more comfortable while you take some time to unpack
everything else. Not sure what to pack in the “first night
box”, consider; bed linen, electric blankets, bath towels, tea
towel, mugs, kettle, tea/coffee/sugar, some bowls and
cutlery, dishwashing liquid, laundry powder, cleaning
products and of course, toilet paper. Label this box with
bright tape and place it on the truck last to ensure that it
comes off first and you can find it easily when you need it.
WRAP IT UP
This tip is highly effective when wrapping cutlery and
utensils in Cling Wrap or placing utensils in a large plastic
container to keep them together... And that messy drawer?
Place items in a basket, container or plastic bag to sort out
at a later stage instead of fishing around for random items
lying at the bottom of a box.
SURVIVAL KIT
When you’re traveling to your new location, it’s a smart
idea to pack a small ‘survival kit’ filled with random things
that could be extremely useful in an emergency or
inconvenient situation. You could include things like;
headlamp, batteries, paper clips, twine, scissors, notebook,
sewing kit, permanent marker, tape, tissues, mirror, lighter,
earplugs, superglue etc. It may sound ridiculous, but you
never know when you might need to channel your inner
MacGyver if you ever become stranded!
Wherever you are going and whatever adventures
await you, we wish you safe and happy travels over
the silly season. Got something to add? Please send
your ideas and feedback about relocations to:
admin@topendermagazine.org.au
Defence Encourages Early
Responsiveness for 2021-22 Posting Cycle
Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their
families set to post domestically are encouraged to plan
early, with the COVID-19 pandemic creating uncertainty
that could potentially impact removals.
The Director of Defence Relocations and Housing said Defence
members should “lead from the front” this year and submit an
Application for Relocation (AFR) to Toll as soon as possible.
“PostingConnect came online in April 2021, allowing ADF
members and their families to streamline the posting process,”
the Director of Relocations and Housing said.
“Since the site went live more than 11,000 ADF families have
used the secure online portal to progress their posting.”
PostingConnect is available to ADF members who receive an
email, via their DPN or Fleet email accounts, inviting them to
register. ADF members can also nominate a family member or
friend to assist with their posting tasks.
Members who choose to use PostingConnect will be invited to
submit a Toll Application for Relocation and will be assigned a
case manager to support their relocation.
Defence Housing Australia (DHA) is also accessible via
PostingConnect, with links to Homefind available from within the
PostingConnect and the DHA environment.
Homefind helps ADF families find a home in their new location.
More information about Homefind and DHA services is available
at www.dha.gov.au
If ADF members can’t access PostingConnect, they can complete
an Application for Relocation by searching Toll Transitions in
Google.
Anyone who has moved with Toll before can access existing
inventory, while those new to a domestic move, they can start
afresh.
ADF members should contact their Toll case manager or Toll’s
Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167 for further
information.
COVID-19 and border restrictions can quickly change and
Defence may direct a change to your relocation or directed
travel mode.
Defence Relocations and Housing (DRH) and the Posting Cycle
Movements Coordination Cell (PCMCC) are working closely to
manage restrictions implemented by State and Territory
Governments.
“Defence, DHA and Toll are working closely to help and
support Members and families during this very challenging
period,” the Director of Relocations and Housing said.
“Toll Case Managers can provide assistance if your relocation is
impacted. However, understanding and patience is requested.”
ADF members and their families are responsible for completing
any required border permits/passes and must comply with
all State and Territory restrictions.
“You should also review all the relevant State and Territory
websites to ensure that you are up to date on all current
restrictions and requirements,” the Director of Relocations and
Housing said.
DRHM
Contact Details
Northern Central Zone
NT - DRHM.NT@defence.gov.au
SA - DRHM.SA@defence.gov.au
North QLD - DRHM.NQ@defence.gov.au
South QLD - DRHM.SQ@defence.gov.au
East West Zone
ACT - eigservicedelivery.dreastwest@defence.gov.au
NSW - eigservicedelivery.dreastwest@defence.gov.au
WA - eigservicedelivery.dreastwest@defence.gov.au
South East Zone
VIC, TAS and NSW Riverina - DRHM.SVIC@defence.gov.au
12 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 13

GIVEAWAY
ADVENTURE | PAMPER
Thanks to Defence Health, we are giving away one
pamper pack and one adventure pack in this edition!
Mental health matters, so why not nominate someone in the
NT Defence community to receive a little gift and let them
know you value them! You can even nominate yourself. You deserve it!
Two lucky nominees will be selected to receive either an outdoorsy adventure pack or our
luxurious pamper pack. Products within the pack are subject to change due to availability of
stock.
TERMS: Total Prize Pool valued at $300 per edition. Open to all ages. Email your nomination, delivery
address and phone number to admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au before 4th November 2021 to be
considered. Past edition nominations will be taken into consideration for all future giveaways.
Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next edition of The Top Ender.
NOMINATIONS
ARE OPEN
Send your nominations with a
name and delivery address to
admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Remember to tell us why you think
they deserve to receive a gift pack and
which gift pack they would like!
Packs valued at a minimum of $150.
There’s been some talk in the media lately about
organisations offering incentives to people who are fully
vaccinated. You may have even received emails or text
messages from companies you already deal with. So, with
a large percentage of the ADF fully vaccinated, what sort
of benefits could you be taking advantage of?
Vaccination incentives
Here are some of the cash or other rewards being offered by
organisations and businesses to people who have received two
doses of a Covid-19 vaccination:
• Airlines offering points, status credits or flight discounts
• Airlines offering the chance to win a major prize such as
unlimited travel for a year or a million flyer points
• Travel companies offering discounts and travel vouchers
• Hotels offering free room upgrades
• Fast food outlets offering free food
Fully vaxed? Get Rewarded!
• Pubs and restaurants offering free food or drinks
• Toll companies offering prizes that include cars and toll credits
• Health insurers offering reward points or gift cards
• Ride share operators offering free rides to and from
vaccination centres or discount vouchers
• Discounts on travel experiences
• Victorians who have endured lockdowns are being given the
chance to win a $10,000 money card.
Taking Advantage
Some of the prize draws on offer are available to all Australians
who can prove they are fully vaccinated and it costs nothing to
enter. Other offers require you to spend money to take advantage
of a freebie or upgrade. These incentives are only good if you
were planning to use the service or spend the money anyway.
Use your search engine to find ‘vaccine incentives’ or ‘vaccine
rewards’ for services you already use or places you would visit
anyway. You may also find local business promoting incentives
for fully vaccinated customers, so keep your eye out on what’s
available in your area.
We’re here to help the defence community! ADF Financial
Services Consumer Centre - https://adfconsumer.gov.au/
The 2021 Mango Madness Festival is a family friendly event,
including food stalls and tastings showcasing mango
inspired food and drinks, loads of exciting activities and
competitions, family friend fun, entertainment and
educational displays and workshops that the whole family
can enjoy.
The Mango Madness Festival will include;
• Food and drinks stalls with mango inspired products for tasting and
purchase
• Surrounding Waterfront venues to provide a mango inspired menu
• Educational activities
• Cooking displays and workshops
• Family friendly fun and entertainment (Full stage program and roving
performances) and a mango eating competition.
Something Juicy is Coming...
Saturday 6 November
#mangomadnessfestival
Darwin Waterfront
BUY TICKETS ONLINE
http://www.mangomadnessfestival.com.au/
TICKET PRICES
Adult (18yrs +) - $10
Concession/Seniors - $8
Children (6yrs - 17yrs) - $8
Children under 5 - Free
Family (2 Adults + up to 3
children under 17yrs) - $20
14 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 15

It may not seem important when your children
are young, however it is possible to reduce
future financial stress by working on your
savings strategy during the early years of your
child’s life.
It's a smart idea to work out what a good education
will cost in the future or to discuss whether you
would like to gift your child with their first car or a
home deposit in the future. Early planning can give
you options in the future and your “future self”
with thank you!
Work out how much money you need
How much money you need will depend on how
you want to use the funds in future or whether you
want your children to go to public or private schools.
You may also choose to start planning for the cost
of university, which could cost the same amount as
a new car!
For example, if you send two children to a private
high school which costs an average of $20,000 a year
for each child, by the time they both graduate you
will have spent $240,000 on school fees. And that’s
not counting extras such as school uniforms, trips and
sporting clinics.
The earlier you start saving for your children’s
education, the better. Education costs are usually a
long-term goal that can take more than 5 years to
achieve. Use an online savings goal calculator and
work out how much you can save.
Starting a
Piggy Bank
Savings options
To help you reach your goal, you might consider
saving small amounts for your children from a young
age. You may also want to think about what the
savings will be used for in the future... Purchasing a
first car, a first home deposit or to cover a range of
education expenses.
Creating a savings plan can be as simple as:
• Saving $10 per week x 52 weeks per year =
$520 per year
X 18 years = $9,360 + compounding interest
earned in a long-term savings account
If you can afford to increase your savings plan, try:
• $20 per week x 52 weeks per year = $1040 per
year
X 18 years = $18,720 + compounding interest
earned in a long-term savings account
Before you decide to put your money into any of the
saving options above, you should consider your other
financial obligations. For example, you might be
better paying off your mortgage or paying down your
debts first, before you start saving. Seek advice from
a financial planner if you are unsure about the best
option for your household.
Talk to your children about saving
Let your children know your savings plan. It’s
important they understand the benefit of long-term
saving. You could even open a savings account and
teach them to deposit their pocket money in it.
Saving is easier than you may think.The trick is to
start small and start now. Set your goals, create
your savings plan and begin taking small steps for
your future.
Written by Deb Herring (adapted from the ADF
Financial Services Consumer Centre)
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
Test your Trivia
1. When is Battle of Britain Day?
2. How many Australians fought during the Battle of Britain?
3. Who led the Australian troops at the battle of Milne Bay in 1942?
4. Which Australian militia Battalion first fought the Japanese on the Kokoda track in WW2?
5. How many aircraft carriers has Australia had since 1939?
6. What were the last jet fighters to fly from HMAS Melbourne?
7. How many Australians served during the Korean War?
8. Which ex-WW1 Australian pilot was the first to fly the transpacific route from the US to Australia?
9. How many Australian Army Divisions fought on the Western Front in WW1?
10. Who were the first 2 RAAOC soldiers to be executed by the Japanese as prisoners of war in
World War II?
ANSWERS: 1. 18 August 2. 35 3. Major General Norman Clowes 4. 39th Battalion 5. 3 6. Douglas A4 Skyhawk 7. 17,000
8. Charles Kingsford Smith 9. 5 10. Corporal Rodney Breavington and Private Victor Gale
Love your trivia and want to try
your luck against other groups?
Grab some friends for a fun night
of trivia at any of the following
venues.
NB: Ensure that you contact the
venue directly to confirm whether
the event is still operating.
TUESDAY
The Bell Bar & Bistro
Tuesday at 7pm
Bellamack
Shenannigans
Tuesday at 8pm
Darwin City
Silks Darwin
Tuesday at 7pm
Fannie Bay
Local Trivia Nights
WEDNESDAY
Hibiscus Tavern
Wednesday at 7:00 PM
Leanyer
Beachfront Hotel
Wednesday at 7pm
Nightcliff
Darwin Golf Club
Wednesday at 6:30pm
Marrara
Pint Club
Wednesday at 7pm
Marrara
The Landmark @ Gateway
Wednesday at 7pm
Palmerston City
The Lost Arc
Wednesday at 7pm
Darwin City
Palmerston Tavern
Wednesday at 7:30pm
Palmerston City
THURSDAY
Darwin Railway Club
Thursday at 7pm
Parap
Darwin Trailer Boat Club
Thursday at 6:30pm
Fannie Bay
Parap Tavern
Thursday at 7:30pm
Parap
The Precinct
Thursday at 7pm
Darwin City
Tracy Village Social & Sports Club
Thursday at 7:30pm
Lyons
List courtesy of
quizfinder.com.au/northern-territory
16 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 17

‘I Love Being a
One-Women Start-Up’
About Prince’s Trust
Australia Enterprise Programme
It’s hard to hold a job when
defence life means multiple
postings – but this spouse has
turned that into an advantage.
Her flexible business moves
when she does, with some wise
advice from Prince’s Trust
Australia.
RAAF spouse Karin Bennett has
launched her own financial planning
business to empower women and
advise serving members as they
transition into civilian life.
The experienced tax agent,
accountant and financial adviser
opened Your Fresh Start Financial
Services in March 2020 after failing to
find the right company to join.
“I didn't like the old-style businesses
that are out there,” she said.
“They’re sort of still running on the
old mentalities and I didn't really feel
like I fitted with those.” So, Karin
started her own business. And she’s
loving being a one-woman start up.
“I'm not really in it for the big
profits,” she said.
And being part of the defence
community meant Karin was able
take part in Prince’s Trust Australia
Enterprise programme this year.
“Even though I'd already started my
business, those Enterprise Online
sessions were really, really helpful,”
she said.
“It helped dig down into why we are
doing this business, what we need to
make this business work, and what is
our business model going to look like.
“It also connected me to other
women - our group was just women
- that are all over the country doing
the same with other small
businesses.”
Karin went on to do the follow-up
Enterprise Connect workshop and
she also made an important
connection with the ADF Financial
Services Consumer Centre through
the programme.
“Through that connection I was able
to see if I could fit the criteria to
become part of the consumer
group,” she said.
attitude can make a real and positive
difference to members of the
Australian community,” he said.
Robert said the Centre was delighted
to be able to present a segment in
the Enterprise programme on
establishing, running, and selling an
owner-operated business.
Prince’s Trust Australia’s Enterprise programme is an entrepreneurial training programme
designed to give ex-serving and transitioning ADF members and their partners the support to
explore self-employment.
Enterprise was launched in 2015 and has since supported 500 participants, more than 50 activities and
the establishment of more than 100 businesses that remain in operation today.
The Enterprise Programme is an
initiative of Prince’s Trust Australia, part
of The Prince’s Trust Group, a global
network of charities founded by His
Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.
Enterprise is guided by an Advisory
Council, chaired by His Excellency
General, the Hon David Hurley AD
DSC (Retd). It includes Major General
Natasha Fox AM CSC, Head of People
Capability at Department of Defence
and Air Commodore Robert Brown.
Visit princes-trust.org.au or email
events@princes-trust.org.au for more
information.
What Enterprise offers
The Enterprise programme is delivered online and inperson
across Australia and is divided into four entry
points, depending on where a potential participant is in
their self-employment journey.
Enterprise Online - For individuals who are interested in
starting a business or freelance career.
Enterprise Connect - For individuals who have a business
idea and would like technical support to develop their
concept and build a viable business.
Enterprise Meetups - Ongoing support for Enterprise
alumni that includes networking and peer-to-peer
mentoring opportunities, bespoke events and seminars.
Enterprise Accelerator -Designed to provide intensive
support to scale an existing business or start-up. Launching
in 2022.
“I really want to be able to continue
balancing working in my business
and helping people to fulfill their
lives, empower people and get them
to that better lifestyle.”
Karin said being a military partner also
influenced her decision to strike out
on her own.
“As a defence spouse, it's harder to
continuously find jobs that fit in with
your partner’s working hours, if he's
deployed, and how that affects your
family,” she said.
“So being able to start your own
business gives you a lot more
flexibility.”
“So, on the actual website that they
have, it now lists my business. And
that listing helps generate leads -
that's the hardest thing when you
start up a business, being able to get
your name noticed somewhere.”
ADF Financial Services Consumer
Centre Chair, Air Commodore
Robert Brown, supports Karin as a
fine example of an ADF family
member who enjoys helping others
and is committed to her clients’ best
interests.
“We’re more than happy to freely
offer our knowledge and experience
to a person like Karin whose
professional expertise and caring
“We are impressed by the
commitment of the Prince’s Trust to
the welfare and success of our ADF
members, veterans and families who
are contemplating small business
ownership,” he said.
Visit Karin’s business: https://
yourfreshstartfinancialservices.com.au
To register for Prince’s Trust Australia
Enterprise program: https://bit.ly/
Enterprise2021EOI
Article is written for The Trust by an
ADF spouse, freelance copywriter, and
Enterprise program alumna Courtney
Snowden.
UPCOMINGEVENTS
Registerforourfreeupcomingevents.
HAPPENINGSOON
05OCT EnterpriseConnectOctober
19OCT EnterpriseConnectOctober
REGISTEREARLY
02NOV EnterpriseOnline(Veteran)
09NOV EnterpriseOnline(Veteran)
23NOV EnterpriseOnline(ADFPartner)
04DEC EnterpriseOnline(ADFPartner)
Registernow
18 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 19

Defence Member
and Family Support
As we come into posting season, we reflect on the high
tempo environment that ADF members and their very
supportive families continue to manage on a daily basis.
As a Defence family, you have access to a great range
of research-backed resources to support yourself and
your family. If you or your family need help, advice or
connection with your local community, reach out to
the Defence Member and Family Helpline at any time.
Defence Member and Family Support (previously Defence
Community Organisation) has a wide range of programs and
services to help families navigate the opportunities and
challenges of military life. In particular, at this time you might
find our recorded webinars useful. They are available on the
DMFS website for you to access at your convenience. Topics
include ‘Making a new home—integrating into the new
location’, ‘Adjusting to deployment’, ‘Preparing for the
unexpected’, and ‘MWD(U)—Communication, the key to
living apart together’.
Our website is the best source of information on ADF
member and family content so be sure to bookmark it.
And be sure to follow us online to keep up-to-date on
planned events and programs.
1800 624 608
memberandfamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au
defence.gov.au/members-families
DefenceMemberFamilySupport
DMFS_AusDefence
DMFS_AusDefence
dmfs-darwin.eventbrite.com.au
dmfs-tindal.eventbrite.com.au
Darwin City hidden gems discovery walk
Families enjoyed a beautiful morning discovering Darwin City,
visiting different locations and checking out architecture,
sculptures, paintings and street art. We visited the Supreme
Court, hidden cafés and arcades, and admired the lovely view
out onto the ocean from Parliament House. The morning
ended with a group lunch and chat in the Smith Street Mall.
The wonderful world of science
To celebrate Science Week, ADF kids joined us for hands on
learning at Robertson Barracks Family Group for our science
extravaganza. We explored how molecules bind together
while doing a range of fun experiments including making ice
cream, artistic creations using magic milk, self-inflating balloons,
checking out density by creating ‘fire works’ in a jar, and seeing
how polymer chains work together to make leak proof bags.
Photo: Strolling down Smith Street Mall on our
‘Hidden gems discovery walk’. By Jot Kahlon.
Photo: Science Fun - The briefing. By Di Elson.
School holiday movie night
In the July school holidays, families in Katherine and Tindal
were treated to a mid-week screening of Alice and
Wonderland at the Moonlit Cinemas. Families brought picnic
blankets, camp chairs and their sense of adventure to see the
classic tale of the girl who fell down the rabbit hole.
There were a range of snacks and a sausage sizzle on offer
thanks to the wonderful volunteers in the Moonlit Cinema
canteen. It was a great night and a nice way to end the school
holidays.
Photo: Movie snacks and getting comfortable before the adventure tale starts
for the ‘School holiday movie night’. By Sarah Jacka.
Take a break, let’s mosaic wellbeing workshop
Serving members and families in Katherine and Tindal got
together with Defence Social Worker Kiana and Family Liaison
Officer Sarah to try their hand at mosaicking a plant pot, and
to discuss self-care and wellbeing. Afterwards, everyone had a
bite to eat and shared ideas about other activities they would
like try in the future.
It was a great opportunity to relax and do something creative,
and connect with other families living in the area.
Childcare for Defence kids
Defence Member and Family Support has a range of
programs to support the availability of childcare
services to Defence families, who might face difficulties
in sourcing childcare.
One of these programs is an individual case management service
for childcare placement.
Defence maintains a network of childcare and early childhood
education centres at 16 locations around Australia, comprising 16
long day care and three out of school hours centres. Included in these
numbers are Little Geckos Childcare Centre in Tindal and Kids
Brigade Childcare Centre in Palmerston. The centres are managed by
a licensed childcare provider, One Tree Community Services.
One Tree Community Services originated in Western Australia, when
a small group of community-minded parents came together to create
a safe place where children could play after school.
“The small group grew and we are now a national not-for-profit
organisation with more than 45 years’ experience in delivering
childcare services in metropolitan, rural and remote areas across
Australia,” said Coral Callan, Executive Director at One Tree.
“One Tree employs over 600 staff from diverse cultural and
professional backgrounds, and we believe in working with
communities and creating a sense of belonging for staff, children,
families and community.”
Specialist early learning staff from One Tree provide individual case
management for Defence families. The aim of individual case
management is to support ADF families when they move to a new
area or change their work or care arrangements, such as when
families post to new areas or a serving member returns from
maternity leave.
“Our specialist staff assist families who need help to find appropriate
childcare by negotiating with all local registered childcare providers,
including family day care and before and after school care, to ensure
childcare is tailored to individual family circumstances,” Coral
explained.
Individual case management is a free service that provides parents
with options to allow them to decide which childcare service best
suits their family. It is available
to all ADF families across
Australia. Normal childcare
fees will apply for any
childcare options selected by
families.
Save the date—DMFS activities planned for October and November
There are many local events and activities available to all in the NT, but keep an eye
on our social media, Eventbrite or NT e-Newsletters for our events for ADF families.
The upcoming school holidays are the perfect chance to explore your local area and
remember, DMFS events in NT are open to all families in Darwin and Tindal.
01 Oct 21: Museum Discovery Walk—located in Darwin
02 Oct 21: Stand Up Paddle Boarding—located in Darwin
03 Oct 21: Stand Up Paddle Boarding—located in Darwin
08 Oct 21: KidSMART—located in Darwin
13 Oct 21: Let’s take a break and create—located in Tindal
Take the time to check our Events page defence.gov.au/members-families/Events/
Default.asp for newly added activities, and subscribe to our e-Newsletter by emailing
dmfs.darwin@defence.gov.au or dmfs.tindal@defence.gov.au.
Photo: Dancing to the beat at the ‘Kids
dance workshop’. By Di Elson.
Kids dance workshop
The Kids Dance Workshop was a huge
success—we know where our next
dancing stars and acrobats start! The 3–5-
year-olds had a bundle of fun testing out
their mini acrobat skills at Tiny Tumblers.
Some stayed on with their 6–9-year-old
siblings for Junior Acro, where there
were great high energy displays and an
appreciative audience. Our 10–12-yearolds
and those with staying power
finished off with hip hop, leaps and free
dance.
Photo: Taking time out to create some lovely artwork with friends at
‘Take a break, let’s mosaic’. By Sarah Jacka.
Written by Di Elson
Area Manager NT
Defence Member and Family Support
Defence provides priority of
access to Defence childcare
centres for ADF families,
particularly where the local
community is unable to
accommodate them or they
have been posted to a new
location.
For more information or to
discuss your family’s childcare
needs, call the all-hours
Defence Member and Family
Helpline on 1800 624 608.
Defence maintains a network
of childcare and early
childhood education centres
at 16 locations around Australia, which are managed by One Tree
Community Services.
Photo used with permission.
20 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 21

A Minute to Reflect on Remembrance Day
Putting Your Heart First
Each year, at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month,
we observe a minute’s silence.We do this in memory
of those who have died in all wars, conflicts and
peacekeeping operations.
This Remembrance Day, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
(DVA) is calling on all Australians to observe a minute’s silence
to acknowledge all those who have given their lives in the
service of the Nation.
It was on 11 November 1918 that the guns on the Western
Front fell silent, bringing an end to the First World War. In
those four years of war more than 330,000 Australians served
overseas and more than 60,000 of them died.
On Remembrance Day, wherever you may be, observing a
minutes silence gives you the opportunity to recognise and
remember the service and sacrifice of our veterans and serving
personnel especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
You might also like to attend a local Remembrance Day service
or stream the Australian War Memorial service in Canberra.
Wherever you are, there are opportunities to be part of the
tradition of reflection.
Many Australians have relatives who have served in wars or
times of conflicts, and spend their minute of silence
remembering or paying tribute to them. Those who do not
have a personal connection can use the one minute silence to
reflect on the cost of war for Australia and the world.
Photo: Remembrance Day 2014 Commemoration Service at the Darwin Cenotaph.
Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
Sharing knowledge about Australian war history is one
important way that we can continue the tradition of
commemoration. You can learn more about Australia’s wartime
history through DVA’s Anzac portal. The portal provides
information on how you can trace an ancestor that may have
served, engage the kids in the Remembrance Day tradition
through craft activities like creating poppies, or simply learn
more about the thousands of Australians who have served their
country.
The Australian War Memorial website has an Honour Roll
which holds service records for members of the Australian
armed forces who have died during or as a result of war service.
In addition to this, DVA also provides a Nominal Roll of
Australian veterans. These sources can help you find further
information on relatives who may have served in Australia’s
military forces.
Photo: A poppy being placed on the roll of honour at the Australian War Memorial in
Canberra. Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
If you haven’t already visited the Adelaide River War
Cemetery, this cemetery is a sobering reminder of the impact
of war on the Northern Territory. Here, there are some 430
military burials and the Northern Territory Memorial, which
commemorates service personnel who lost their lives in
operations in the Timor and Northern Australian Regions and
have no known grave. The War Cemetery adjoins the Adelaide
River Wartime Civilian Cemetery, where 63 civilians who lost
their lives during the Second World War are also buried.
To everyone who has served, or is currently serving, we thank
you and your families. If you need assistance from DVA you can
contact us in a number of ways. For support and information
you can call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372), request a call
back through MyService or visit us online at dva.gov.au or our
office in Winnellie.
Written by Meghan Bailey
Deputy Commissioner, NT
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
It is never too early or too late to look after your
heart health.There isn’t just one cause of heart
disease, but many risk factors that may increase your
chances of developing it. According to the Heart
Foundation, cardiovascular disease is a major cause of
death in Australia with the devastating average of one
person dying from this disease every 12 minutes. By
understanding the associated risk factors we can do
more as a community in preventing the incidence of
heart disease.
Some risk factors are beyond our control, including age,
gender, ethnicity and family history. Although, most heart
attacks and strokes can be prevented though healthy choices.
These healthy choices include;
Quitting smoking
Reducing alcohol consumption
Reducing stress through meditation or engaging
support services
Eating a diet that is rich in wholegrains, fibre, vitamins,
antioxidants and healthy fats
Being more physically active
Any positive change in your diet and lifestyle will not only
encourage optimal heart health but increase your overall
wellbeing. Give yourself a little challenge. Aim to exercise at
least 30 minutes a day, eat 5 cups of vegetables, decrease
your intake of processed food or reduce your alcohol
consumption. You do not need to do this all at once. For
sustainable change, it is best to slowly adopt new habits so
they became instinctual instead of a chore.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Heart
Health Program is a great way to start putting your
heart health first.The program has seen some great
success and is well received by the veteran
community, with a 99% satisfaction rating in DVA’s
recent client satisfaction survey. The Heart Health
Program is a 52-week program that is free for eligible
veterans, and aims to help you increase your physical
health and wellbeing through exercise, nutrition and
lifestyle management support. This flexible program
provides participants with tailored information,
resources and the tools to improve their physical
health and enjoy a healthier and happier life.
The program includes a personalised physical activity
program which is reviewed every 12 weeks, custom food
diary reviews by a nutritionist and fortnightly coaching from a
qualified health professional. To ensure your health journey
is holistic and sustainable, the program will also provide you
with monthly health education modules. To find out if you
are eligible, contact 1300 246 262 or visit www.dva.gov.au
for more information.
Written by Jacqueline Cleghorn
Community Support Advisor
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
22 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 23

Soldier On Pathways Networking Event -
Connecting local veterans and their families to
new employment opportunities in the NT.
Soldier On will be hosting a Pathways Networking Event in
Darwin, providing the veteran and defence community with
an opportunity to meet a range of veteran supportive
employers and education providers, and to create
opportunities and meaningful connections. The event will
be held at Darwin Sailing Club on 27 October from
5.30pm to 7pm. To find out more about the event or local
support services available to you, please contact:
NT@soldieron.org.au
What is a Soldier On Pathways Networking Event?
PNEs are Professional Networking events designed to
enable veterans and their families to meet and network
with a variety of local veteran-supportive organisations,
many of whom may be actively recruiting in your local area.
The Darwin Event will also help you find out more about
local education and training opportunities, make
connections with potential employers and help you kickstart
your new career pathway.
What is the format of a PNE?
PNEs will usually follow a similar format to a careers fair,
with a number of information stands providing
opportunities to meet and network with veteran
supportive organisations, including Soldier On Pledge
Companies and Education Partners. Soldier On team
members will be available during the event to assist you
with informal introductions and new connections to
support your career
goals.
PNEs offer the
opportunity to speak
directly with
representatives from
organisations, giving
you the chance to find
out more about the
company and any
employment
opportunities they
have. If you’re
interested in upskilling
or re-training, you can
also speak with
education providers
about education and
training opportunities,
including scholarship
and discounted courses. Light refreshments will also be
available at the event.
Photo: Soldier On Pathways Program team
Who can attend the Darwin Soldier On Pathways
Networking event?
This event is for serving or ex-serving ADF members and
their families. Solider On’s Pathways team supports
Defence families at all stages of their career or posttransition,
including defence partners and family members.
How much does the Pathways Networking event cost?
All Pathways events and Pathways Program support is free
of charge. Please contact your local Soldier On Pathways
team to register for the event: NT@soldieron.org.au
Defence Families Australia advocates for current
serving ADF families, advising Government and
Defence on issues facing our ADF community.
Our team are located around Australia, and are all
partners of current serving ADF members. We
represent the community we live in.
At DFA, our aim is to reduce the negative impacts of
military service on ADF families, and to support the
positive aspects of this unique Defence lifestyle.
At this critical time of change in the Defence space, this
work is more important than ever for shaping the
future of our community.
Sandi Laaksonen-Sherrin has recently taken over the
DFA National Convenor role from Maree Sirois, who
was with DFA for 9 years. Sandi has previously worked
in the social impact space and started in the role in
June. Find out more about Sandi at our website.
https://dfa.org.au/contact/convenor/
Please get in contact with us if you have been
unsuccessful in resolving a concern through your local
relevant support channels or would like to discuss an
issue.
You can also stay up to date with our projects and
advocacy by signing up for our quarterly newsletter at:
dfa.org.au
Defence life can be rewarding and challenging at times.
Make sure you know about the places you can go to
for support.
Your local Northern Territory Delegate can be reached
via email, at: nt@dfa.org.au
Please get in contact with us if you have been
unsuccessful in resolving a concern through
your local relevant support channels or would
like to discuss an issue.
How Soldier On’s Darwin team can help you
Soldier On’s Pathways team provides free employment and
education support to veterans and their families, with face
to face, online and over the phone support available.
If you’re considering your future career options or looking
for work in the NT, reach out to the Soldier On team and
find out how we can help you to secure your future career
goals.
Jessica Hanison
NT Delegate
DFA
24 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 25

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary
School is situated in the northern
suburbs of Darwin, near Lyons
and Muirhead, so our students
are able to ride their bikes to
school or access public transport
as required. We are surrounded
with spacious grounds and
wonderful school facilities, with a
current enrolment of
approximately 245 students from
Transition to Year 6 and 30
children enrolled in our
Community of Learners (3-5
years). We provide both Before
and After School Care, including
Vacation Care during holidays.
Our motto at Holy Spirit – To Live,
To Love, To Grow in Christ. This is
visible and evident to all who enter
our school. We are proud of our
school and all that it has to offer.
Holy Spirit supports the Defence
School Mentor Program. Christine
Crimmings has been working at our
school since 2007. Prior to taking on
the role as Defence School Mentor in
2013, Christine was a parent of our
school with all three of her children
being former students. One of her
daughters works with us at Holy Spirit,
in our Community of Learners and
Out of School Hours Care.
Each week, Christine provides lunch
time activities on Monday and
Tuesday for our defence children.
This allows them to join in activity, but
most importantly, the opportunity to
engage with each other and make
new social connections. When a
family member is deployed for a long
period of time or away on exercises
or courses, we provide additional
support to the family where we can.
Meet Your DSM
Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School
Each term, we host a Defence Family
Gathering where parents and children
engage with a variety of fun-filled
activities. Last term, we had one of our
defence dads organise a virtual reality
tour for our children. Later this term,
we have another defence dad who is a
miltary Physical Training Instructor (Joe
Aberdeen) organising a 30-metre
inflatable obstacle course!
Sharon Floyd, our director of
Community of Learners and
Coordinator of Out of School Hours
Care, is also available to discuss your
posting to Darwin and childcare
requirements. Sharon’s husband is a
defence member and their daughter
attends our school.
At Holy Spirit, we recognise and
participate in important events
around defence. This includes:
• Bombing of Darwin
Ceremony at Darwin
Cenotaph on 19th February
• Anzac Day
• Remembrance Day
Earlier this year we asked our
students their thoughts about our
school. They said Holy Spirit is –
inclusive, respectful, loving,
friendly, colourful, exciting,
awesome, welcoming, supportive,
cool, exceptional and happy.
To learn more about our school visit:
www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au
Facebook: Holy Spirit Catholic
Primary School Wanguri NT
If you are posting to Darwin and not
sure where to start with Catholic
education, please do not hesitate to
contact Christine or myself:
christine.crimmings@nt.catholic.edu.au
and paula.sellars@nt.catholic.edu.au. If
you wish to contact Community of
Learners, please feel free to email:
sharon.floyd@nt.catholic.edu.au. We
are also available to meet with you
via Zoom if that is more convenient
for you.
Written by Paula Sellars
Principal
Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School
EVERY WEEK
Monday
9am – Bumps and Bubs, a social group for
Bumps and 0-2 yrs, older siblings welcome
Tuesday
9am- Playgroup, as social group with
some structured play/activities for 0-5yrs
Wednesday
9am – Kids Gymnastics for 1-5yrs
at Territory Gymnastics Academy
(Term 3)
Thursday
8:45am – Bootcamp, all fitness levels
welcome stay for coffee after, children
welcome too
Friday
9am- Alternating with a Walk to
Coffee, Coffee and then Lunch every
3 rd week
EVERY MONTH
Reading Between the Wines Book Club
First Tuesday of every Month
Monthly craft nights or cooking classes
Monthly partner dinners
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Family Putt Putt, FlipOut and Craft
club for the school kids
Larrakeyah
Neighbourhood House
COMING UP IN
TERM 4 AT LNH
Teen ice skating with a friend
Christmas lunch
26 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 27

The Pilbara Regiment
ADF Chaplains in the NT
Chat with the Chaplain
If you thought the Top End was remote...The Pilbara is a very
unique posting with the Regiment covering the entire Pilbara and
the Midwest.The Regiment is primarily based in Karratha -
1500km from Perth.
Here are a few tips to consider before posting to the North West;
1. Online shopping will become your best friend. Some locations in the
Pilbara only have a Coles.
2. If you have old white goods, replace them now. Appliances online does
not deliver here. Murphy’s Law will guarantee that your appliances will
break at the worst possible time, so avoid that by replacing outdated
appliances before your removal.
3. Post is extremely slow here, so don’t buy something and expect it to
be here quickly. Even if you pay for express postage.
4. Buy a proper 4WD so you can see how beautiful the Pilbara is. There
is so much to see and explore. Make the most of it while you live here.
5. The Pilbara is very friendly - if you need something, don’t be afraid to
ask for it
6. Yes, it is extremely remote, but the Unit is very family friendly.
7. Join the Pilbara Regiment Family group. They run some great events.
8. Volunteer as a helper for the Family Group to continue running events
and give you a positive past time to focus on. Volunteering makes you
feel good and connects you with lots of amazing people.
9. The Unit allows you stay at the Depots if you want to explore the
Pilbara. Make the most of it. The Family group has stocked each Depot
with toys for kids.
10. The cost of living is higher here, but thanks to the lack of shops, you
can’t go impulse shopping and splurge your weekly budget.
11. Warning: the Pilbara will steal a piece of your heart – the lifestyle here
is amazing!
Photo: Karijini National Park, April
Photo: Burrup Peninsular, August
Photo: Pilbara Regiment Family Group Women’s Event in
Dampier, June
Shaun Foster HMAS Coonawarra
Australian Christian Churches
0400 514 375
Kelvin Harris Fleet North/HMAS Coonawarra
Anglican
0457 712 743
Glen Elsegood 8/12 Regiment
Anglican
0429 345 167
Joel Vergara Regional Support
Roman Catholic
0409 778 462
Chris Lindsay 1CER
Presbyterian
0418 428 337
Garth Mayger 1CSSB
Roman Catholic
0419 869 187
Phil Riley HQ1 BDE
Anglican
0407 283 050
Steve Maggs 5RAR
Baptist
0408 684 783
Roger Cowan 1AVN
Baptist
0429 891 274
Firm Foundations
There’s an old parable about building houses and
the importance of foundations. It talks about two
builders – one who built their house on a rock
foundation and the other on sand. When the
rains came and the wind blew, the house built on
the rock stood firm whilst the house built on the
sand was washed away in a terrible result for all.
The moral to this tale is that foundations matter. What
you believe matters.
Where you focus your faith, trust and hope matters
It will affect your opinions and values.
It will shape your character and attitude, and ultimately
dictate your behaviour and actions.
When the pressure is on, the storms of life blow in and
your faith (what you believe in) will be the determining
factor as to how you react. Even if only subconsciously, it
will affect what action you take.
Belief in the tribe, mateship, career, the system or the
organisation, whilst not bad or wrong in and of themselves,
are not firm enough foundations. Not even belief in the
self will be firm enough in the really big storms.
Good soldiering (or sailing or flying) is soldiering for the
good of others and for the self. In order to do this, there
needs to be a clear understanding of what is good - and
that needs to be a ‘good’ that won’t be blown away by
life’s storms. Mere humans are always at the mercy of life’s
storms, so we need someone outside of ourselves who
can give us an unbiased and clear understanding of good...
That someone will require people to give account of the
good (and the bad) of their lives.
Photo: Millstream Chichester National Park, February
It might be daunting to move to this amazing part of Australia,
but it will surprise you. Yes, the mail is slow, and you live
1500km from the nearest shops, however there are always
people flying to Perth for supplies and they are always happy to
bring things back for you. As an added bonus, flights to Perth
have reduced in price over the last few years...
The Pilbara is a very friendly posting location, and the
community are always willing to help you out if you need it. The
heat can be a bit extreme in summer, but there are plenty of
places to cool down.... We have only been here 7 months and
we do not want to leave!
Written by Meret Southwood
Defence School Mentor
Pilbara Education Regional Office
Mitchell Herps RAAF Tindal
Anglican
0438 493 232
Andrew Knox RAAF Tindal
Anglican
0457 803 372
Angela Stanfield RAAF Darwin
Anglican
0417 953 396
All three services provide a 24/7 on-call number for
emergencies. Each Unit/Ship/Base has its own chaplain who can
assist. If you chaplain is not available, please contact the on-call
number for your Service. Denominational or faith-specific
ministry can be arranged as required.
Who you choose to put your trust in needs to be
someone worthy of trust that cannot ever be shaken.
Play to an audience of one.
(with thanks to Craig Potter for the original thought)
Written by CHAP Phil Riley
Chaplain
1 BDE HQ
28 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 29

Our Top Ender Wellbeing Retreat was a fun
weekend of activities, which included a diverse
range of wellbeing strategies and relaxation
activities to give our guests an amazing
experience! Plus, every guest received an
incredible gift bag to continue spoiling themselves
after the event!
The project team were extremely humbled by the
generosity of a number of organisations who helped to
financially support our event and significantly reduced the
cost for our special guests;
RSL Darwin Sub Branch
RSL Palmerston Sub Branch
Defence Health
Department of Veterans Affairs
Please support the initiatives and goodwill provided by
sponsors who rely on memberships to continue
supporting the defence community.
We also engaged local child care providers within the
defence community to organise a weekend of children’s
activities at Wanguri Primary School while we nurtured our
guests! Thank you to Little Wonders Australia and Precious
Poppies Family Day Care for their amazing help to keep
little ones entertained over 2 days. The Top Ender Tri-
Services Magazine has donated a portion of their
advertising revenue to fully subsidise the child care
program at no cost to retreat guests.We are a defence
community organisation who are genuinely focused on the
needs of the defence community.
We also received support and valuable contributions from a
number of local businesses, organisations and subject matter
experts to help make this event a huge success, including;
The Top Ender
Wellbeing Retreat
Vitality Health, Darwin Yoga Space, Soldier On, Chiro Life,
Mindfullnest NT, Paper & Pen, Top End Spinal Flow, The
Barefoot Naturopath, The Artful Room, Aussie Veteran
Coffee Company, Sunny Home Scents, The Body Shop with
Jessica Halbert and more!
If you are interested in finding out more about the wellbeing
retreat, please email us at:
articles@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Berrimah Scout Unit is a thriving community-based
organisation located in Knuckey Lagoon just behind
Robertson Barracks.
We meet on Tuesday evenings during the school term and
participate in a range of activities from cooking to science,
practical life skills or even just working with other people. Our
youth gain a sense of community, life skills, build wonderful
friendships and challenge themselves to better their self, each
other, their community and the world.
1 st Berrimah Scout Unit
We currently have 47 youth members ranging from 5yo-14yo
and 5 leaders, plus another leader in training. We also have a few
fantastic adults helping behind the scenes as part of the
committee and assisting with planning for the weekly program.
We have three sections at our unit:
Joeys aged 5 – 7yrs
Cubs aged 8 – 9yrs
Scouts aged 10 – 14yrs
Some of our favourite experiences over the last twelve months
for our Joey section include; exploring a Fire Station, receiving a
visit from St Johns Ambulance and going on our two-night Joey
camp with a visit to the Territory Wildlife Park.
Our Cubs loved going on a camp and hike in Litchfield, playing
‘capture the flag’ and extracting the DNA from a strawberry,
which was a pretty cool experiment for our science night!
Our Scouts have enjoyed fishing off the pier, going on a bike hike
along the foreshore, completing a photo scavenger hunt through
Darwin and building possum boxes for wildlife to make refuge in.
We also organise unit activities, such as; a bike skills camp and
completing a two-night camp in Litchfield National Park with the
goal of hiking into a beautiful swimming hole.
We would love to see your youth come along and try out what
we do. You are welcome to attend a three-week trial before
deciding whether Scouting is for you and your child.
We are always having fun! Kids and adults. Our organisation is
100% volunteer run, we are always looking for helping hands
who are willing to jump in on activities, so we can continue being
such an amazing group. We are currently looking for adults to
join our committee, provide support behind the scenes or
become leaders and help with youth activities. If you love
adventure and exploring nature in the Top End, the 1st
Berrimah Scout Unit is ready to welcome you!
Please contact us for more information:
berrimahscoutgroup@gmail.com
Written by Chippy (Amber Martinuzzi)
Joey Leader
1 st Berrimah Scouts
ThankY
TO OUR SPONSORS
RSL
Palmerston Sub Branch
RSL
Darwin Sub Branch
30 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 31

Ludmilla Primary School
Star Students
Ludmilla Primary School promotes the
ideals of personalised learning and goal
setting for all students.We offer a unique
range of programs, designed to engage
challenge and help our students achieve high
academic outcomes.
Students and teachers work together to develop
meaningful goals based on current assessment results.
From this point students collaboratively work out the
steps needed for each student to achieve their goal.
Having high expectations of all students and
including them at the programming and planning
stage has resulted in improved learning outcomes
for the students at Ludmilla Primary.
The school further supports all Defence families and
their children by having a full time Defence Mentor in
the school. Two of our students that have currently
reached their learning goals are Sarah Emanuels Gomez
and Maisie Hills.
According to the recent NAPLAN results, Sarah (who is
in Year 3) has recently placed in the top 5% for reading
across Australia. Likewise, Maisie (who is in year 6) has
achieved her reading goal and is now reading a minimum
of two years above her age level. Well done to both
girls - they are a great example of one of our school
values; persistence.
Working in small groups, goal setting and a strong
student voice are part of how Ludmilla Primary supports
their students. Furthermore, the staff at Ludmilla Primary
School are passionate about ensuring every child
experiences success with their learning every day.
Written by Jacinta Stewart
Defence School Mentor
Ludmilla Primary School
Tales of a Top End Mum
Part 6
On a cool, dry evening, as the sun was
lowering itself behind the dusty Tindal
bushes to signify the end of another day, a
wife trembled with fear as she admitted a
deep, dark secret.
“Honey, I couldn’t get us a cabin, but I didn’t
want to miss out on a weekend away with our
friends, so I booked us a camp site [insert
mysterious echo]”
My words lingered in the still evening air... The
panic was palpable. I could taste his
resentment. “Oh, and by the way, it’s on
Father’s Day weekend.” I’ll dig the hole myself,
thanks...
Nature. Camping. Tent. Kids. *shudders*
Just two days before we embarked on our
outback camping adventure, Mother Nature
started working her magic - the build-up was
coming with a vengeance. Bring on the hair
frizz and dirty, sweat moustache... I wasn’t
changing our plans now – I was committed!
As we pretended to be experts at setting up
our campsite with three young children, our
friends popped by to let us know they were
camping nearby. Without hesitation, we all
grabbed a corner of our family tent and
paraded through the Tumbling Waters Holiday
Park, leaving a trail of sweaty footprints behind
us.
Tents, caravans, cabins and all, our group then
headed to the restaurant to celebrate... Not
just to celebrate Father’s Day, but cheers to
friends that make postings what they are!
My husband and I then played an exhausted
version of scissors, paper, rock to divide the
children between us, before retiring into two
sides of our tent. Forget the camping sauna -
it was like we were sweating all of the toxins
from our bodies in those little, polyester
steam rooms. If it wasn’t for the blood-thirsty
mozzies constantly ravaging my body, I would
have been more comfortable camping under
the stars!
Early the next morning, we set off to explore
Berry Springs, and the natural beauty did not
disappoint. A large grassy picnic area with a
kiosk provided plenty of shady places for a
picnic, as well as a few places to explore for a
refreshing swim.
We stumbled across a beautiful and warm
waterhole, complete with scenic waterfall.
Although it was an amazing place to relax with
friends, the rocks were sharp and brutal on my
perfectly manicured feet. It was also hard for
me to ignore the croc-shaped rock sitting one
metre below the water’s surface. My mouth
wanted to scream and warn hundreds of
happy swimmers to evacuate, but I knew my
mind was playing tricks on me... Calm down,
girl - it would have eaten someone by now!
We then followed the path alongside the
waterway until it delivered us to a few large,
open pools of water with various stairway
exits. I didn’t swim out there though, it looked
too big to escape the non-existent crocs.
Back at the Tumbling Waters Holiday Park, we
visited the freshwater croc sanctuary! The kids
were invited to pick up a piece of raw chicken
(gross), have it hooked onto a line, then lower
it down for them to snap up. What a
terrifyingly fun experience for all ages..? Only in
the NT, hey?
The next sweaty morning, my husband woke
up with a sudden gasp, rolled off his blow-up
mattress and immediately started deflating it...
Without needing to ask the usual question of
“how did you sleep, Honey?”, I believe this
profoundly signified the end of our camping
experience... It was definitely time for us to
drive home and sleep in an airconditioned
room, in a real bed... We gave camping a good
try!
All in all, though - we’d probably do it again.
The company was worth it!
Written by Katie B.
Community Contributor
Tindal
32 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 33

Billeroy House
Barefoot Bowls
Billeroy Veterans & Families Community Centre invite all Defence units and ex-service community
organisations to put together teams of 4 and join us in a fun social night (and friendly rivalry) for
Veterans’ Health Week. Come along to one of the two events scheduled in October.
Both events are FREE with food platters donated by Billeroy House.
Wednesday 20 th October
10:30am - 12:30pm
Sponsored by Nightcliff Bowls Club
RSL
Darwin Sub Branch
Army Indigenous Development
Program (AIDP)
Future Veterans Helping Veterans Now
Army indigenous Development Program {AIDP} have
been supporting Billeroy House for two years now,
and on June 30th 2021, they presented me with
framed photos of two previous courses. While they
Nightcliff Sports Club
11 Camphor Street, Nightcliff
Friday 22 nd October
6pm - 8:30pm
Sponsored by DVA Veterans Health Week
RSVP by Friday 15 th Oct
Send your team’s details to Dan Tellam at Billeroy House.
E: billeroyhouse@rsldarwin.org.au | M: 0439659271
were visiting Billeroy House, they also
volunteered to assist in our garden and give
our Veterans a helping hand. What the group
achieved in four hours would have taken our
Veterans six months! From RSL Darwin and
Billeroy House, a BIG thank you to the AIDP
group - looking forward to your next visit!
We’ve all had a slip at some times
in our lives. It’s part of life.
Whether young or old, it is a
reminder that gravity rules a lot of
our actions and movements on this
planet, to some degree.
The trick with any slip is to manage
the risk. But the more I ride
motorcycles, the more I understand
that I don’t know everything about
them. There is so much to learn
about motorcycling, if you truly get
the bug. I guess that’s why you keep
riding as long as humanly possible.
Because life is about new learnings
and where new learning takes you.
With motorcycling, you can pause it
and come back to it when life allows
you to - it’s just magic.
The art of riding (or the mechanics of
its techniques of operation) reaches a
point where only small improvements
will occur. But the actual art form of
motorcycling continues to improve as
you deepen your understanding of
riding and the operation of the
machine. With knowledge and
personal growth, our interests in
motorcycles may diversify, with some
riders leaning towards the
performance side of motorcycling.
Others gravitate to the technical side,
spending exorbitant amounts of
money on restorations and
collections. Or as they tell their
significant other – “investments”.
Others are just happy to ride and
enjoy the holistic benefits that
motorcycles provide the mind and
body. To each their own – every
rider’s passion is unique to them.
Today’s topic of motorcycling is slip.
It has many dimensions relevant to
each of these interest groups. To
the old and bold riders, it might
refer to those things you just ‘let
slip’. The more senior riders out
there understand that age will
eventually affect our flexibility,
concentration and endurance
abilities on the machine. The
solution is, we must either choose to
ride less or we ride more efficiently
and comfortably. I chose the second.
My theory; “if you know the problem,
work towards the solution and
understand what areas
you can improve, to
cater for a loss in
another area”. The
worst-case scenario of
‘slip’ is when returning
riders come back to
motorcycles, and they think that they
can pick it up where they left off.
Two years off a motorcycle is a long
time, let alone six or more, which is
often the case when family priorities
take precedence. The concentration
and mental acuity often ‘slips’ during
time away from motorcycling. You
may need to re-learn the road-craft
techniques that will keep you safe,
then work on the mechanics of riding
by doing more with less effort.
For the technical junkies who are
undoubtedly waiting for the technical
bit... Here it is; ‘Slip’ in a technical
sense, refers to the lateral slip of a
tyre that occurs as we ask the tyre to
turn the machine. It is measured, as
the difference between the direction
the tyre is moving (the contact patch)
and the direction the tyre is pointing
(your steering input). This can occur,
most notably, in cornering. It is very
noticeable when you change from an
old tyre to a new tyre, and you
suddenly realise how less slip is
occurring. The tyre and the machine
are once again connected to the rider
through feedback from the road, and
the machine is turning more
accurately and consistently, with less
affect by road condition.
Bottom line: new tyres – less slip.
Make sure that you invest in a new
set of tyres before the wet season as
this will limit the slip.
Written by GROM
Community Contributor
The Top Ender Magazine
34 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 35

Military
Book - Courage Under Fire by
Daniel Keighran VC
Background story: As a
Country Queensland kid it was
often the case growing up that I
felt disadvantaged somehow by
comparison to those living in the city.
Upon reflection, a result of this has had a
lingering presence throughout my life to
date, making it easy to find excuses rather
than taking action and getting on with it.
Books guidance and advice: This wellwritten
account of an extraordinary man's
life details his tough upbringing in rural
Queensland, the positive guidance of his
grandfather, and finding solace and stability
in the Australian Army and the
brotherhood of the 6th Battalion, Royal
Australian Regiment (6RAR).
Throughout the book, the reader gets a
sense that many of the challenges he faced
in life are exactly what allowed him to
purposefully draw enemy fire away from a
casualty undergoing medical treatment,
during what is regarded as, one of the
fiercest combats since the Vietnam War
and there is a lesson for all in that.
End result: Seeing firsthand examples of
people rise from humble beginnings to
great achievements helps to wash away
any of the limiting beliefs once held as a
kid and should serve to mitigate them
from ever taking root in the first place. If
anything, it highlights that it is in those
humble beginnings that forms the
impetus to drive positive action when
framed in the right mindset.
This is truly a story that inspires others to
overcome their own adversity.
BrothersNBooks
Book Review
Self Development
Book: Zen and The Art of Motorcycle
Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
Background Story: As a technically
oriented person I’ve sometimes struggled
to relate to people around me that
become frustrated by the outcomes of
failed processes/devices, without ever
seeking to find the cause of the issues and
solve the problem. I’ve also noticed that
the same people are more often able to
enjoy things in a carefree way without
thinking about the details of the outcome,
or stressing themselves with thoughts
outside the experience. I’ve often sought
the root of this attitude in order to better
understand the person, and to become
more aware of my own approach to life,
balance, and enjoyment of experiences in
general. As a motorcyclist, the best
expression of this crossover of experience
and attitude for me is the bike.
Key Lessons: This book plots a
fictionalised autobiography of a technocrat
as he completes a cross-country
motorcycle trip with his young son, and
two friends. During the trip, there is a lot
of time for internal dialogue and
reflection, as the protagonist discusses
motorcycles, philosophy, mindset,
relationships and the self. Amongst other
lessons within the dialogue, the book
highlights the differentiation between
classically (details) and romantically (in the
moment) oriented personalities, the
struggle to find a personal balance of the
two approaches in life, and the dangers of
suppressing parts of your personality and
self.
End state: I’ve found myself coming
back to this book multiple times over
the years as a way to re-centre my
understanding, attitude and approach to
problems, experiences and life. In a
constant flux between the classical and
romantic approaches, I’ve found that this
book increases my awareness for
allowing both to come to the surface and
has helped me to feel more balanced by
appreciating the details of everyday
experiences.
My favourite quote from the book: "On
a cycle the frame is gone. You're
completely in contact with it all. You're
in the scene, not just watching it
anymore, and the sense of presence is
overwhelming.”
Written by
CAPT Dylan Conway
6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Editor at BrothersNBooks
Instagram.com/Brothersnbooks
A Headstone for
CPL Frederick Prentice
Photo: CPL Frederick Prentice (Service No. 2597), Australian
War Memorial.
Photo: CPL Headstone, Katherine Times
REFERENCES:
https://www.katherine.nt.gov.au/events/a-headstone-dedicationservice-for-2597-cpl-frederick-prentice-mm/387
https://indigenoushistories.com/2014/09/05/finding-frederickprentice-mm/
https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/P10677601
Up until Wednesday 29th September 2021, an
Indigenous WW1 Military Medal recipient has
laid beneath an unmarked headstone in
Katherine NT for over 60 years.
Without any living next of kin, members of the
Katherine Region Stolen Generation (Aunty Ellen and
Aunty Juanita) have worked tirelessly towards the goal
to have his unmarked grave recognised. In
collaboration with Australian War Graves, Australian
Army and Katherine Town Council, CPL Frederick
Prentice has recently received the headstone
dedication and recognition that he deserves.
CPL Frederick was born in Powell Creek, NT in 1894,
then enlisted into the AIF May 1915 and served in the
First World War, including the 12th Battalion and the
1st Pioneer Battalion.
In July 1916, he was awarded the Military Medal for his
actions at Mouquet Farm, Pozieres. Possibly the first
Aboriginal recipient of a military medal during WWI,
he ‘showed great courage, resource and ability in
bringing machine guns and ammunition through the
enemy barrage in the dark and broken ground.’ On
two occasions, CPL Prentice was part of a machinegun
section consisting of seven men, however six of
the men were killed by enemy fire… He was the only
man to survive on each occasion. It was reported that
as a Lance Corporal, Frederick supported his NCO in
every way and was he known as a valuable asset to his
section.
Frederick Prentice was an athlete who excelled in
football, cricket and running. Almost six feet tall and
well-built, CPL Prentice was a well presented and
respected Aboriginal war hero. Upon his safe return
from WW1 onboard the ‘City of Poona’ after four
years of service (1915-1919), the local newspaper
reported his arrival and commemorated his service. He
died of natural causes in Katherine on the 22nd of
November, 1957 without any known friends or family.
Rest in Peace, Frederick Prentice.
36 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 37

The Commitee Noticeboard
What’s On
We have listed some important dates and upcoming events so you can plan ahead, including some events
specific to the Defence community.
BECOME A COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTOR
We welcome all contributions from our Defence Members
and their families. We’re looking for stories about Defence
life, history, helpful guides to living in the NT, family
experiences, travel adventures and more. If you have
something you’d like to share in the next edition of The
Top Ender, submit it today. One lucky contributor will
receive a $100 voucher in each edition!
VOLUNTEER WITH US
$100
COMMUNITY
CONTRIBUTOR
VOUCHER
We always welcome new volunteers at The Top Ender Magazine. There is no time obligation,
we only ask that you join us for our monthly meetings wherever possible. You can input as
much or as little as you like and will be supported along the way.
If you would like to increase your volunteer hours, contact us today or come along to our next
committee meeting (also available via Zoom) to find out more.
GOING TROPPO PARTY
Thank you to everyone who attended our first major community event for Defence families.
Our ‘Going Troppo’ party was a great success, with inflatables from Monster Ball, food trucks
from The Territory Spud King, Rescue Me Fish and Chips and Curled Ice Cream. We had visits
from Tip Top Circus Stilt Walkers and Hyper the Clown kept the little ones entertained with
her magic and balloon twisting. A big thank you
to Base Services Management and SADFO
Andrew Anthony for there support, as well as
Trafficwerx for assistance with road closures. We
hope you all enjoyed yourselves and can’t wait
August/September Competition Winners:
until our next birthday to celebrate again!
Winner Winner
Matt Wright’s Top End Safari
Leonardo Escobar
Giant Ferris Wheel Passes
Maddi Davey
Heidi Rushforth
Pamper Pack
Eloise (Tindal)
Adventure Pack
Tracy Linquist
Crack the Code
Chantelle Fisher
OCTOBER EVENTS &
IMPORTANT DATES
Dogtober Day is a way to get involved
with Assistance Dogs
Walktober to encourage physical activity
Kakadu Bird Week
Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Closing Night
Million Dollar Fish Competition opens
Hottest 7's
Mango Madness Festival
Darwin International Laksa Festival
1st – World Smile Day
3rd – 70th anniversary of the Battle for Maryong San
5th – World Teachers Day
10th – National Hat Day
10th- World Mental Health Day
12th – 18th – National Superhero Week for Muscular
Dystrophy
13th – Breast Cancer Awareness Day
13th - Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
15th – International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness
Day
16th – GiveOUT Day is a national day of giving to
LGBTQI+ communities
16th - World Food Day
18th – 24th – Aussie Backyard Bird Count
18th - 24th - Week Without Violence
20th - 26th - National Week of Deaf People (NWDP)
20th – 20th anniversary of Australian Special Forces
Deploying for Operation Slipper (Afghanistan)
21st – Headspace Day (to be confirmed) – their website
has helpful tips that could be used for other articles
regarding mental health
29th – Day for Daniel
31st - Halloween
For more information and to find out about other events in the region
during 2021, check out the Tourism Top End Website
www.tourismtopend.com.au/event
We also recommend checking the websites in different towns and
councils, as well as organisations like the Waterfront Precinct. This is not a
complete list of events, and they are subject to change. Please confirm
with the organisation before attending.
SPOTTO
Have a look for these things when you’re out and about.
See if you can find all 10!
A COW
ROAD TRAIN WITH 3 TRAILERS
A BUS
DRAGONFLY
SIGN WITH A KANGAROO
NUMBER 22 ANYWHERE
SPEED BUMP
PINK FRANGIPANI
CAR TOWING A BOAT
A PERSON WALKING WITH AN UMBRELLA
NOVEMBER EVENTS &
IMPORTANT DATES
Movember
Lung Health Awareness Month
National Novel Writing Month
Million Dollar Fish
8th - 14th - National Recycling Week
8th – 14th – National Psychology Week
11th – Remembrance Day
11th -17th - Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Awareness
Week
15th – 23rd – Alopecia Awareness Week
17th – World Prematurity Day
18th -24th – Antibiotic Awareness Week
20th – 80th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Sydney
25th – White Ribbon Day aims to raise awareness among
Australian men and boys about the roles they can play to
prevent violence against women
28th – Thank U NICU Day
38 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 39

Home Business Hero
DC Real Estate
Defence Community
Enterprise Directory
As a serving member and
valued part of the Top
Ender Committee, this
edition’s Home Business
Hero is our very own
Daniel Campbell.
Dan keeps himself busy with his very own real estate
agency; DC Real Estate. Providing buyers and sellers
honesty and integrity during the real estate process.
We can attest that Dan goes above and beyond to
help, so if you’re looking to buy or sell in the Top End,
Dan is your man!
Contact DC Real Estate
dan.campbell@atrealty.com.au
FAMILY DAY CARE
Precious Poppies Family Day Care
Bronte Wilson
Facebook: Precious Poppies FDC
Location: Palmerston
Day and night care available – CCS approved
HOMEMADE CRAFT
Top End Collective Indoor Markets
Facebook: Top End Collective
Location: Regular craft markets at Gateway Home
(Palmerston) every Sunday between 9am - 1pm
MAKEUP ARTISTRY
Florence & Co - Cassandra
Facebook: Florenceandcomakeup
Location: Moore Beautiful Salon Berrimah
Makeup artistry for special events, including natural makeup,
bridal and eyelash extensions
BODY SHOP & DOTERRA OILS
Jessica Halbert
Facebook: The Body Shop with Jessica Halbert
Location: Greater Darwin area
Local Body Shop and Doterra representative
SLEEP CONSULTANT
Rockabye Baby Sleep Solutions
Rachel Thompson
Website: https://rockabyebabysleepsolutions.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/rockabyebabysleepsolutions
https://www.instagram.com/rockabye_baby_sleep_solutions
Location: Darwin & online Australia wide
Assistance and support with developing healthy sleep
routines
INNER LIGHT HOLISTIC HEALING
Liana Tighe
Contact: 0412 705 704
Location: Lyons
Find out how Reiki or Kinesiology energy healing sessions
may benefit you. Liana has over 15 years experience using
gentle and non-invasive healing to restore balance and
energise. Available weekday evenings and by appointment on
weekends
NUTRIMETICS & BEAUTY
Hannah Davey – 0409 302 748
Facebook: Hannah’s Nutri Updates
Website: www.nutrimetics.com.au/hannahdavey
Location: Greater Darwin, Palmerston & Rural areas
REAL ESTATE
DC Real Estate Services
Dan Campbell
Facebook: DC Real Estate Services
Location: Greater Darwin, Palmerston and rural areas
Veteran owned agency with a strong knowledge of Defence
housing entitlements and investing
CARD MAKING & CRAFTS
Kaszazz Consultant - Stamp - Scrap - Embellish
Stacey Hutchinson
Phone: 0401 506 636
Email: Acedonald19@gmail.com
Webstore: www.kaszazz.com
Supplies, Scrapbooking and Card making workshops or made
to order
Location: Greater Darwin, Palmerston & Rural areas
ADVERTISE HERE
ARE YOU A MEMBER OF THE DEFENCE
COMMUNITY OR ADF VETERAN WITH A
BUSINESS LOCATED IN DARWIN? PLEASE
CONTACT US TO BE FEATURED IN OUR NEW
ENTERPRISE DIRECTORY!
AFFORDABLE OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO
PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TO OVER 3500
ADF HOUSEHOLDS!
40 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 41

STAY INFORMED
ONLINE
Weather and warnings - www.bom.gov.au
Information on emergency situations in the NT - www.securent.gov.au
Northern Territory Emergency Service - www.emergency.nt.gov.au
Update on power, water & sewerage services - powerwater.com.au or
follow @PowerWaterCorp on Twitter
EMERGENCY KIT
CHECKLIST
Cyclone Season
Cyclone Season officially starts on 1 November and ends on 30 April each year. You should
prepare for cyclones and damaging thunderstorms during the Wet Season.
In 2019, Category 2 Cyclone ‘Marcus’ brought with it strong wind gusts of 130km per hour. It caused
major damage to thousands of trees which, in turn, caused infrastructure damage to houses,
vehicles, fences, carports, sheds, footpaths etc... Around 430 powerlines were downed leaving
some 26,500 residents without power immediately after the cyclone.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CYCLONE
You may be alone for up to 3 days, ensure your emergency kit will sustain you and your
household for that time.
Prepare your property for severe storms, cyclones and storm surges.
Warning: Never use portable generators indoors or in enclosed spaces
Listen for official warnings and advice
Follow instructions of emergency services
Fill your vehicle with fuel and fill any water containers you may have
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issues the following tropical cyclone services:
- OUTLOOK: Risk of cyclone formation within the next three days
- WATCH: Gales expected in 24-48 hours; forecast updates every 6 hours
- WARNING: Gales expected within 24 hours; updates at least every 3 hours
ALERTS
FREE severe weather alerts - register for SMS, email or voice alerts at
www.tiofi.com.au/alerts
CALL
NT Tropical Cyclone Information Service - 1300 659 211
NT Marine and Land Weather Warnings - 1300 659 214
Australian Tsunami Threat Information - 1300 878 6264
NTES emergency help in floods, storms & cyclones - 132 500
Power & Water Corp - enquiries 1800 245 092
or emergencies/faults 1800 245 090
TUNE IN
ABC Darwin - 105.7 FM (official emergency broadcaster)
Or find your local ABC frequency - www.abc.net.au/reception/freq/
Frequency-NT.pdf
LISTEN OUT
Listen for local community safety announcements and Emergency Alert
messages sent to your phone.
The Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) is a distinct audio
signal that has been adopted to alert the community of an urgent safety
message relating to a major emergency/disaster. It will be broadcast on
public media (radio, television, sirens etc..)
REMEMBER TO CHECK!
For loose or light materials that may need to be
secured
Your vehicle fuel tank is full in the event of
evacuation
Your emergency kit is ready to use
You all know where the strongest part of the
house is if you need to take cover
Your children, pets and neighbours are all safe
Your window shutters are closed or windows
taped/secured
You have enough water!
TIPS FOR KITS
Store in an easy to reach, dry place
Information sourced from https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au
42 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated
Check contents once per year to
ensure items still work and
consumablesOCTOBER/NOVEMBER are still in date. 2021 43

Although art has been used as a method of self-expression, communication and healing for
thousands of years, it is often overlooked as an effective strategy for emotional health and
wellbeing.
As many people struggle with self-disclosure and the ability to verbalise their feelings, art can be used as a way to
unwind, refocus and express emotion in a meaningful way without needing to find words. The purpose of art therapy
is focused on the process of creating art, rather than the end product, which can be translated through a diverse
range of styles, mediums and formats to suit the expressions of the artist. If you are currently struggling with an
inability to talk about your challenges or needing to find a positive outlet, there are a number of art workshops and
classes available online or face-to-face.
Art classes around the Top End
Darwin Adult Short Courses – Offering a range of art and craft courses for adults, it’s easy to find your next hobby
and art project, including drawing, sewing, garment making, clay work and watercolour painting. https://
www.adultshortcourses.com/
The Artful Room - The Artful Room is situated in Nightcliff and provides weekly after school art workshops for
children from 5 to 18, as well as the occasional adult classes. https://theartfulroom.com.au/
Katherine Regional Art Studio - Our studio space includes screen-printing facilities, print press, kiln and wide variety
of materials including paints, pastels and charcoals; clay and glazes; lino; and more! https://katherineregionalarts.org.au/
studio
Tactile Arts – Offering a contemporary and unique range of artistic workshops for all ages, including jewellery
making, block printing and macrame. https://tactilearts.org.au/
Keep an eye on your social media updated for pop-up art workshops with these defence organisations:
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood
House
Robertson Barracks Family
Group
DMFS
Mates 4 Mates
Network Tindal
Spaces are usually limited, so make sure you stay up to date with upcoming events and book
early!
Written by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
WIN
Calling all budding artists!
Do you love to draw, paint, sculpture, make or model? Show us your artistic
talents by sending a photo of your artwork to feature in the next edition of
The Top Ender.
One lucky entry will win an art pack valued at $50!
Email your photos to creative@thetopendermagazine.org.au to enter!
TERMS: Valued at $50. Open to all ages with parental consent for artists under the age of 18. Email a photo of your
artwork, name, age and phone number to admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au before 4th November 2021 to be
in the draw. Winners will be notified by email/phone and announced in the next edition of The Top Ender.
44 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 45

Surviving the Build-Up
Sleep Well
If you are new to the Territory, what’s
commonly called the ‘build-up’ is the
pre-monsoonal season between
October and December.As each day
draws closer to the wet season,
Mother Nature taunts us with rising
humidity, each afternoon threatening
to provide some much needed rain,
but we are continually disappointed.
To prepare for the build-up, it’s time for a
spring clean and a few purchases:
Clean your ceiling fans - they will be
constantly on flat chat over the next few
months to assist with airflow to minimise
mould on your belongings.
Get those air conditioner filters cleaned
and units serviced – you are going to need
them to sleep.
Buy a fan for your bathroom – if you don’t
have one already, get a fan. It makes
getting ready for work so much more
comfortable.
Buy yourself a Bunnings/BCF golf umbrella
and a pair of thongs– get ready for the
down pours, you will need them to walk
to the car when you finish work, because
When did you start drawing?
I don’t remember ever not drawing, it’s just
something I’ve always done, even as a very
young child. We had a little table and
chairs set up in the family room and I
would wake up and turn on the TV and
just draw before anyone was even out of
bed. I wouldn’t say they were good back
then, but it’s just something I’ve always
loved doing and become good at.
What do you enjoy about art and
drawing?
I enjoy art because I feel I am good at it
and it allows me to express my creativity.
Sometimes while looking at Pinterest I will
see something and just have to recreate it
with my own style and ideas. Being the
eldest of four children, it’s nice to have
something that is mine and gives me my
individuality which is important to me.
you can guarantee a monsoonal storm at
knock off time.
Buy a couple of drying racks or a clothes
dryer – even though you’re wearing less,
the washing doesn’t stop. Damp washing
also starts to smell after a short amount of
time, so it’s important to dry clothes
quickly.
Check your tyres – do you have plenty of
tread for driving safely and stopping in the
rain?
Change your wiper blades – after the dry
season, they may have hardened up and
won’t be effective in heavy rain.
As for health and beauty, here’s a few tips:
Forget the straightening iron. Within
minutes of straightening, your hair frizzes
up. It’s easier and cooler to tie it up to
keep off your neck.
You will need some emergency antichaffing
ointment. Use Derm-aid sparingly,
it works a treat overnight.
Stock up on antiperspirant – goes without
saying.
Rarely need skin lotion - I have found my
skin feels amazing, particularly after the
harshness of the dry season. After a
shower, it’s too humid to lather up with
cream as you instantly start sweating again.
Stay hydrated. Sweating from morning to
night can leave you dehydrated. Drink
plenty of water and have some form of
hydrolyte on hand.
Get a hand held fan for your handbag –
it’s a little relief
Most people hit the shop centres to
escape the heat after battling each other
for the undercover car parks, while others
enjoy the Waterfront wave pool, water
parks at Leanyer or Palmerston, or enjoy
some of the natural watering holes just
outside of Darwin, even down to
Litchfield, Katherine and Mataranka.
It’s also a great year to watch the natural
changes of the beginning of the wet
season, including dragonflies, lush tropical
foliage and green tree frogs!
Written by Deb Muir
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine
Talented Defence Kids
Penny Down is a 13 years old Defence kid currently posted to Darwin. During her previous posting to
Singleton, she started art lessons with a student teacher who was also a Defence wife when in year 6. We
interviewed Penny to find out more about her art.
What is your favourite type/medium of
art?
I really enjoy drawing with pencil, because it
is simple and there is no mess to clean up.
I can take a sketch book, pencil and eraser
with me anywhere and draw anything I feel
like.
Photo: ‘Hare’ pencil drawing by Penny, aged 13
What do you enjoy about art classes?
Art classes gives me the opportunity to
explore other ways of expressing my
creativity through different mediums of art.
It’s great to have that hour set aside each
week to dedicate to myself and what I
enjoy as it can be hard to find time
otherwise because of school and studying.
What is your favourite artwork?
I don’t really have a favourite piece of
artwork, however I am quite proud of the
drawing I did of my great grandparents as a
present to my pop for Christmas last year.
Both my great grandparents passed away
before I turned 6 months old so I didn’t
really feel a connection with them, but
knowing how happy it would make my pop
was worth the effort.
Almost everyone has trouble sleeping
occasionally. Not getting enough sleep
here or there is nothing to worry
about. On the other hand, sleep
problems that last for weeks or even
months can really interfere with your
life. If you’re worried about your sleep,
we can help. å
Sleep is essential to good health
Problems seem bigger and harder to deal
with when you’re tired, so getting a good
night’s sleep is essential in helping you
overcome the challenges you’re facing.
Restful sleep has been found to:
reduce stress
improve your memory
lower blood pressure
improve your immunity
make it easier to maintain your weight
improve your mood
Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours'
sleep a night. This isn't always easy to get,
but it's a good target to aim for.
Reasons for poor sleep
You might be lying in bed worrying, or have
developed some bad habits like having too
much caffeine late in the day or late-night
screen time.
The first step to improving your sleep is to
identify why you’re not sleeping well.
Keeping a sleep diary for a week or two can
help you identify the reason for bad sleep
and what you need to change.
Just before going to bed, record the
activities of the day and evening, and
anything you ate or drank in the hours
before going to bed. You may be able to
see a pattern.
Tips for getting to sleep
Adjust the bedroom temperature if possible
- a slightly cooler room of 16-20 degrees
Celsius has been shown to assist sleep. If
you are too hot or cold, take a shower to
adjust your temperature.
Block out as much light and disruptive noise
entering your room as possible. Ear plugs or
white noise and eye masks may also help.
Make sure your bed and clothing is as comfy
as possible, make it again or change if
needed.
Hide your clock. If you are worrying about
the time and that you have not fallen asleep
yet, looking at a clock can add extra stress.
Write down your thoughts:
if anything is worrying you
things you have to remember
positive events that happened during the
day.This can help clear your mind prior to
sleep.
Turn the electronic devices and screens off.
Calm your breathing, or practice some form
of relaxation or meditation once in bed.
This will assist in placing you in a state
where sleep is easily achieved. The audio
files below provide several guided relaxation
tracks.
Take action
Use the Open Arms Healthy Sleeping tool
and answer questions about your typical
sleeping behaviours. The tool offers tailored
advice and tips to improve your sleep and
optimise your mental and physical
functioning – www.openarms.gov.au/getsupport/self-help-tools/show-all-tools/
behaviours/healthy-sleeping
The Healthy Sleeping tool is available on
the High Res app.
Getting help
If you’ve tried self-help strategies but you
still can't sleep, you might benefit from
additional support.
If you are having sleep difficulties due to
nightmares, Open Arms - Veterans and
Families Counselling may be able to help.
Call 1800 011 046 for free and
confidential 24/7 support. Support is also
available to the family of veterans.
Open Arms also offer a 2-day workshop to
help you manage disturbed sleep:
Develop an understanding of the sleep
process and factors impacting on sleep.
Learn ways to reduce or eliminate factors
detrimental to sleep and to introduce or
enhance those beneficial to sleep.
Explore and understand the impact of sleep
disturbances on mood, behaviour and
relationships.
Who can attend: Current and ex-serving
ADF members, partners, adult children.
Please check the Open Arms website for
session times and further information.
Reference: https://www.openarms.gov.au/
living-well/sleep-well
46 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 47

World Teachers’ Day
Friday 29 October
World Teachers’ Day celebrates the
work of teachers, acknowledging the
important contribution they make to
the community.
Inaugurated on 5 October 1994 by the
United Nations Education, Scientific and
Cultural Organisation, World Teachers’ Day
is celebrated annually in over 100 countries.
The day allows students, parents and
community members to show their
appreciation for teachers and the positive impact they make on society.
Northern Territory Celebrations
World Teachers’ Day 2021 will be celebrated in the Northern Territory on
Friday 29 October 2021.
Every year the Department of Education celebrates World Teachers’ Day with
events across the Territory, where the winners of the annual Teaching in the
Territory Excellence Awards are announced.
Events are held in Darwin, Nhulunbuy, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice
Springs.
Reference: https://education.nt.gov.au/education-events-andawards/world-teachers-day
WIN
FOR YOUR TEACHER
We would like to celebrate our amazing
Top End teachers with 2 AMAZING
GIFT PACKS!
To enter, simply send us an email with your
nomination (including school) and tell us in 25
words or less why your nominated teacher is so
amazing!
We will also be sending a fun activity and craft
pack to every Defence School Mentor in every
Top End Primary School as a BIG thank you for
their contribution to the defence community –
sponsored by the Top Ender Magazine!
TERMS: Valued at $50 per pack Open to ages 3-12. Email your answer, name, age and phone number
to admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au before 4th November 2021 to be in the draw. Winners will be
notified by email/phone and announced in the next edition of The Top Ender.
How to Reduce Stress Naturally
There are many different levels of stress, but stress affects everyone from
time to time. Stress is a normal and natural response for the body.
In a dangerous situation (such as; a crocodile running towards you), your stress
response signals the body to get out of danger. Your heart will race, you breath
faster, your muscles are primed to run, and your brain uses more oxygen. The
brain and body activate fight or flight mode. In this state, functions relating to
survival are prioritised.
The body believes what the brain perceives…
Not every stressful experience is the same as running from a croc. But the body
responds the same way regardless. Whether you’re running from imminent
danger, running late for work, or your child is throwing a tantrum on the supermarket
floor, your body will basically do the same thing. It will switch off digestion, make you
feel wired, and forget about non-essential functions like repairing tissues, fighting
infections, and regulating hormones. These functions are not considered super
important when you are in perceived danger.
Therefore, the symptoms of stress are so varied and different for
everyone. Stress related changes can include sleep problems,
muscle tension, headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, poor
immunity and changes in mood and behaviour.
Life today presents a seemingly endless string of potential
stress triggers and the opportunity to switch off ‘fight or flight
mode’ and switch on ‘rest, digest, repair and regulate mode’
needs our considered awareness.
What can you do about stress?
1. Prioritise the foundations of health:
• Eat nourishing healthy foods. Chew your food well and
avoid eating “on the go”.
• Drink adequate water and avoid alcohol, coffee and
stimulants, as they will only promote the “fight or flight”
mode.
• Aim to be in bed by no later than 10pm and for 7-8 hours
of sleep a night.
• Take a few minutes everyday to go for a walk, or to get
your shoes off and stand barefoot on the grass and
breathe deeply.
2. Consider what is in your circle of control and what is not:
Take a few deep breaths and think “what CAN I change”?
There will be things you can do something about, and other
situations and circumstances that you have no power over.
Give energy and time only to the things you can act on or
change.
3. Connect with others, talk it out, or just hang out.
4. Get advice on safe, effective nutritional and herbal supports
for stress. Magnesium, B group vitamins, Vitamin C and herbs
like Ashwagandha can assist with energy, stress resilience, sleep,
and immunity when the body and mind are under increased
demands.
Written by Anne-Marie McDonald, B.Nat
Founder
The Barefoot Naturopath
48 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 49

Doctor’s Note
Defence Blood Challenge 2021
Health
The Defence Blood Challenge is on from the 1st
of September to the 8th of December — so go
on, roll up your sleeves and save some lives!
It’s been running for over a decade and during that time,
contributed well over 120,000 donations. In 2019, the ADF
met their goal of 9,000 donations, which helped over 27,000
people — not bad for just a few months of work!
Get a Spot on the Podium
in one of five categories:
Most donations
Most new donors
Highest year-on-year growth
Most donations per capita
Most plasma donations per capita
More than ever before,
now is the time to
donate as COVID-19 is
having a major impact on
blood supply. Currently,
there’s increased
demand for blood
around the world, but at
the same time, donations
are being impacted by
lockdowns and
restrictions, and earlier
this year 44,000
donations in Australia
were cancelled in just
one month.
Every week, Australians
need more than 29,000
blood donations and a
transfusion is required
somewhere in Australia
Photo: Lifeblood water bottle. Commonwealth of
Australia © Defence.gov.au
every 24 seconds. With
only 3.5% of the population being donors, there’s plenty of room
to increase our donations by new donors getting on board.
In the NT, we have the option of donating either whole blood or
plasma. A donation takes only 60-90 minutes depending on the
type of donation, and you get a free drink and snack at the end of
it!
So, if you can, please role up your sleeves and donate. It’s a quick
and rewarding experience, and probably the easiest thing you
could ever do to save someone’s life.
To find out whether you are eligible and make an appointment
please see donateblood.com.au.
CHIROPRACTIC CHECK UP
Health - A state of complete physical, emotional and
spiritual well-being, nor merely the absence of disease
or infirmity.
What does it take to be healthy? There is no ‘one thing’
that will give you complete health. It is a continuous
practice of many things. Some small and some large.
We are constantly bombarded with conflicting advice; ‘eat this,
don’t have that.’ Regardless of what advice you follow, your
body has to deal with those choices. The great thing is, your
body is designed to be adaptable. When we lose adaptability,
things don't work as well as they should.
Photo: Bec, Kat and Marshal - the team from Chiropractic Life, Casuarina.
So how does our body stay adaptable? This is where your
nervous system steps in. Your nervous system controls and
coordinates your entire body and all of your systems - digestive,
reproductive, immune, respiratory, etc...
Chiropractic is focused on the function of the nervous system
and how to optimise it. It isn't just a treatment, but a lifestyle. If
your nervous system has interference, your body won't
necessarily make the best choices on how to respond.
Interference to your nervous system comes from physical,
chemical, and emotional stresses or traumas. They occur when
the body is unable to eliminate these stresses at the time they
are encountered. This is what we work to correct.
At Chiropractic Life we have a wellness-based, neuro-structural
correction approach. We want both your nervous system and
your structure to be fully optimised, giving you the best chance
at life. In fact, "Life" in our business name is an acronym for
‘Living In Full Expression.’
Chiropractic Life has practices across Australia where you can
get continuity of our approach to care and easy portability of
your records. You can also rest assured that the focus on your
care will be the same.
Everyone, young and old, benefits from a better functioning
nervous system and spine. There is no condition that rules you
out of care; we work with you and your body in order to help
you best.
Photo: Sergeant Ace Wheadon's 'You're a Lifeblood
Legend' pin, for his 10th donation. Commonwealth of
Australia © Defence.gov.au
Written by LEUT Andrew Flint, FRACGP
Medical Officer, RAN
Maritime Operational Health Unit
Check us out at chiropracticlife.com.au to start or continue your
Chiropractic journey on your road to true health.
Written by Dr Marshal Montgomery
Banner Photo: Sally Gavin from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and Deputy Chief of Army Major General Anthony Rawlins DSC, AM, Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Mark
Hammond AM, Chief of Air force Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld AO, DSC, and Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell AO, DSC at the 2020 Defence Blood Challenge
Commonwealth of Australia © Defence.gov.au
Dc, Grad Cert (Chiro Paeds), FICPA
Chiropractic Life, Wagaman
50 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 51

Pets in Darwin
Ehrlichiosis - What You Need to Know
Thanks to the COVID pandemic, we
are all very aware of the impact of
infectious diseases.With dogs in the
Northern Territory and Western
Australia, we are currently dealing
with an epidemic (a sudden
outbreak of disease in a particular
area) called Ehrlichiosis.
Most dog owners have heard of this disease, but many are
unclear on what it actually is and whether it is something that
their dog is at risk of catching.
Ehrlichia canis is a bacterium that infects all species of dogs. It
is transmitted by the Brown dog tick.
The Brown dog tick is very well adapted to surviving in urban
homes. The tropical form of Brown dog tick that we have in the
Northern Territory is particularly efficient at transmitting
Ehrlichia.
In other parts of the world where the brown dog tick lives,
Ehrlichia is endemic. It has been present for many years and dogs
have a high level of immunity to it, so only sporadic cases of
serious disease occur.
Prior to 2020, Australia was considered free of Ehrlichia.
Unfortunately, it is now here, and here to stay. In Northern
Australia, we have large numbers of ticks which are often poorly
controlled, especially in remote communities. We also have a
population of dogs that have never been exposed to this disease.
This has led to rapid spread of severe disease in parts of the NT
and northern WA. Hundreds of cases have been diagnosed,
including cases in Darwin and Palmerston, but the number of
actual cases is far higher with huge numbers of dogs in remote
communities being affected.
A somewhat similar situation happened in Military Working Dogs
in the Vietnam war when dogs from Australia (that had never
been exposed to Ehrlichia before travelling to South East Asia)
were exposed to the endemic disease. Many Australian military
dogs died from Ehrlichiosis.
What are the symptoms?
2-4 weeks after being bitten by an infected tick dogs may
become acutely unwell with fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and
unusual bleeding or bruising being the most common symptoms.
Stiffness, cloudy or red eyes, or enlarged lymph nodes may also
occur.
During this phase of the disease, dogs tend to have a reasonable
response to treatment and treatment may result in cure.
A more chronic form of disease can occur within months of
being infected which can be much more severe, more difficult
to treat and has a high mortality rate.
How is it transmitted?
Ticks transmit Ehrlichia rapidly when they bite dogs (less than 3
hours after they first attach). Infected ticks can move between
dogs, rapidly spreading disease.
How is it diagnosed?
Blood tests are required to diagnose this disease. Your vet will likely
run initial blood tests to assess your dog’s blood cells, and then send
samples to a government lab for further testing/confirmation.
How can we protect our dogs?
Speak to your vet about which specific products are the most
appropriate for your dog - we recommend a combination of 2
products:
• Products that repel ticks are recommended to reduce the risk of
ticks feeding and transmitting disease. A specific type of tick
collar is recommended for this.
• Drugs in the isoxazoline class are recommended in addition to
the collar as they kill attached ticks and are the most effective at
reducing the overall tick population. They rely on the ticks biting
to work, so they are not recommended as the only form of
protection (Ehrlichia can still be transmitted before the tick dies).
If ticks are present on your property, get a pest controller to treat
the environment.
For more information on this disease please speak to your vet.
Written by All Pets Veterinary Hospital
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Find a reputable provider - there are a number of pet transportation companies within Australia, so it’s a
good idea to look around at your options and seek recommendations from other defence families who
have relocated with pets. You will save yourself a lot of stress and time by choosing the right service
provider for your pet.
Plan early - It’s a good idea to plan early for pet travel to ensure that you confirm your booking and don’t
run out of time to organise at short notice before your relocation.
Stay calm - Although it can be distressing to send our pets independently, it’s important to stay calm and
reassure your pet that they will be safe. Believe it or not, our pets feed off our energy and can sense if
you’re stressed.
Travel kennel - You pet will require a travel crate/kennel as part of their relocation, so it’s a good idea to
give your pet plenty of time to become familiar with the crate. You can also include a familiar blanket or
toy to reassure them during transit.
Medication - If your pet requires medication, please consult with your chosen pet travel experts to
ensure that medication is administered at the right time, if required.
Preparing Your Pet for Boarding
When you go away without your pets, it’s important to consider your options for suitable boarding
where your pet will feel comfortable, climate-controlled and safe.
Check them out – before you decide on a suitable boarding facility for your beloved fur ball, take some
time to visit each facility prior to booking in your pet. Meet the staff and test their knowledge about the
facility and what to do in an emergency. Also, check for cleanliness, size of facilities and safety of the
property. Do they have security cameras or a website where you can view videos of your pet and their
daily activities?
Qualified staff – while you are researching boarding options for your pet, ensure that the staff are
qualified and have the skills and knowledge to provide excellent care for your pet while you are away.
Delivery service – it will save you time and energy to find a service provider who offers a delivery
service. Helga’s Pet Resort offers air-conditioned pick-up and delivery of your pet/s.
Check the operating hours – prior to planning your drop-off and pick-up times, check that the facility is
open in accordance with your plans. There’s nothing worse than dropping your pet off before a lastminute
flight, only to find that the facility is closed.
Get a vet check – within the weeks before dropping your pet at a boarding facility, schedule some time
with your vet for a health check and confirm that their vaccinations are up to date.
Trial run – if your pet is not used to boarding facilities and you’re concerned about their welfare in your
absence, organise a short stay in your preferred boarding facility to confirm that you and your pet feel
comfortable for a longer stay in the future. If your pet comes home from a short stay seeming distressed
and shabby, you may need to find another boarding facility for longer stays.
Identification – ensure that you have sufficient and accurate identification for your pet in the weeks prior
to their boarding experience. This also includes the identification of familiar blankets, toys, special food
and medication to avoid any mix-ups. It’s also a good idea to ensure that your pet’s registration is up to
date with the council.
Check the rules – before booking your pet into a boarding facility, it’s important to check your
responsibilities and what you are required to do prior to boarding. The last thing you want is unnecessary
complications and stress prior to a well-deserved holiday.
52 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 53

The ‘PUUURRRFECT’ COMPANION
A Safe Place for Meow Inc. is a not for profit cat
& kitten rescue group created specifically for the
stray cats of the Northern Territory.
Our goal is to provide a safe home environment and any
medical care required for stray cats and kittens. The ultimate
objective for the stray cats we take into our rescue is to find
a forever home for them, by providing adoptions to members
of the public directly through A Safe Place for Meow Inc.
By providing this service, alongside other Darwin animal
rescue services, we significantly reduce the numbers of
healthy, homeless cats being euthanised in Darwin.
Foster caring is an option for those who are not quite
ready to own a kitten or cat of their own, but still want
to experience all of the benefits of having a furry,
snuggly friend around the house! If your serving partner
is away out field and you would like a short-term feline
friend to keep you company – we can help!
We provide the food, bedding, toys, litter trays and any
medical treatment and preventatives (e.g. worming and
vaccinations) required for your foster cat/kitten, so
there’s no need to worry about any costs associated
with foster caring.
The length of time in foster care often depends on the
cat, ranging from as little as two weeks to many months,
however we are always willing to work with you if there
is only a certain amount of time you are able to foster
for.
Photo: Tucker
We would not be able to do this without the ongoing
support of our foster carers. Our foster carers are literally the
difference between life and death for our sweet cats and
kittens.
We have foster carers located all around Darwin, who
temporarily provide love and affection for our cats and kittens
while they wait to be adopted.
Photo: Thomas
Please consider saving a little life by becoming a foster
carer, or adopting a new family member from A Safe
Place for Meow! Alternatively, if you are unable to foster
or adopt, please follow us on Facebook and enjoy
regular updates of our wonderful cats and kittens
searching for their forever homes, as well as
heartwarming success stories.
If you would like to apply to be a foster carer or adopt a
cat, please contact us via Facebook:
Photo: Kittens
https://www.facebook.com/asafeplaceformeowinc
54 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 55

Territorians call the period between
October and December, the ‘build-up’.This
is the pre-monsoonal season; rain is on its
way and the humidity is rising.
The build-up months can produce the best fishing
of all the seasons in the Top End. The increasing
cloud cover and rainfall ignites the barra action,
especially in the saltwater estuaries and the lower
tidal river reaches.
The barramundi breeding season begins in around
October each year, which brings big female
breeders and the smaller mature male fish to
congregate around river mouths and estuaries to
spawn. It is especially important during the breeding
season to carefully release the bigger barramundi
you catch to keep fish stocks prolific for all.
Tourism NT/Mark Fitz
Bluewater
Fishing in the Build Up
For the bluewater angler, offshore conditions are
generally the calmest of the year between October
and December, so it’s often possible to travel
longer distances in large trailer boats, targeting the
Top End’s abundant sport and reef fish species.
These calm, windless conditions are also perfect for
fly fishing.
Spanish mackerel numbers slowly dwindle around
Darwin and along the Top End’s west coast during
the build-up, but mackerel are still prolific along the
Arnhem Land coast and the islands in the Gulf of
Carpentaria. It’s a different story with our two main
reef fish, golden snapper and black jewfish. Both
species congregate in large numbers on inshore
reefs, headlands and in the estuaries around
Darwin during the build-up.
Inland
Inland waterways are also fishing at their peak
during the build-up. The billabongs are warming up
as the monsoon approaches and the freshwater
barra are becoming increasingly active. A lot of
barra and saratoga are caught in the Top End’s
billabongs at this time of year, not only by flicking
lures and flies among the aquatic vegetation and
broken timber during the day, but also at night
when barra move freely out in the open. Working
noisy surface poppers or trolling along a moonlit
patch of lilies in the cooler evening can lead to
some thrilling action.
Inland billabong and river water levels are at their
lowest during the build-up, and this provides the
opportunity to view large concentrations of bird
and wildlife.
Tourism NT
Tourism NT
Information provided by the
Northern Territory Website
Reference: https://northernterritory.com/things-to-do/
outdoor-activities/fishing/fishing-seasons/the-build-up
NEW MOON
FIRST QUARTER
TIDES
NORTH COAST - DARWIN 2021
TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS
TIME ZONE - 0930
OCTOBER
MOON PHASES
NOVEMBER
FULL MOON
LAST QUARTER
The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind
whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to
the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or
reliability of the information or that the information will be fit
for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party
intellectual property rights. The Bureau's liability for any loss,
damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on,
the information is entirely excluded. Tidal predictions for
Northern Territory Ports are supplied by the National Tidal
Centre of the Bureau of Meteorology, copyright reserved.
Tides provided with permission of NT Government, Department of Transport
https://nt.gov.au/marine/for-all-harbour-and-boat-users/check-the-tides
Mosquitos and Midgies
Thank you to the Department of Health for
supplying the calendars of the Salt Marsh Mosquitos
and the Biting Midges. For more information on
either of these pests, visit the Department of
Health’s website referenced below.
SALT MARSH MOSQUITOS
BITING MIDGES
In Darwin, salt marsh
mosquito numbers increase
after each succeeding spring
tide and heavy rain between
August and January.
Very high Ae. vigilax
numbers can usually be
expected between October
and mid-January, depending
on tides and rain
Mangrove biting midge
abundance is usually highest
3 days either side of the full
moon and, to a lesser
extent, 3 days either side of
the new moon.
Highest numbers usually
occur between August and
December, coinciding with
the increase in high tide
levels each month during this
period.
REFERENCES
https://hdl.handle.net/10137/11460
https://hdl.handle.net/10137/11459
https://hdl.handle.net/10137/741
56 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 57

Yep, here it is, my favourite time of
year. Water temps are soaring and the
barramundi are on the bite.
15% OFF ALL LURES
Present this voucher at Craig’s Fishing
Warehouse to receive 15% off all lures
in store!
Valid until 1 st December 2021
This voucher is only found in The Top Ender Magazine and as such, this
offer is only applicable to recipients of this magazine.
Build-Up Barra
Fishing On Song!
The inland billabongs have been steaming
and with that has come some very healthy
fish to the high 70cm mark. Slow trolling
big minnows like the Raptor Patriot or
Reidys Big B52 during the night is working
well. The dark colours during a full moon,
and light colours during the new moon
seems to be the trick. The avid Manton
Dam fishos have also been having fun
across ‘The Hill’ section with the 8ft
Killalure BarraBait in colour BDSI doing the
damage recently.
Darwin and Bynoe Harbours are killer options right now also,
that little Rapala 8cm Flat rap still reigns supreme up on the
flats in under 2 feet of water depth. Reidys JnrB52’s banged ‘em
up earlier in the tide. The neap lows hold the clarity nicely and
the fish can often be sighted amongst the mangrove roots on a
good day. This process demands an electric motor to play
sneaky along the mangrove fringes as the fish are very easily
spooked. Soft plastic options include ZMan 3 and 4 inch
Minnows, The little 65mm Squidgy Slick Rig in colour Silver Fox,
Gulp 4 inch swimming Mullets and the little trusty 3.5 inch Egret Wedgetail
rigged weedless on a 3/0 Flashy Swimmer. If you arm yourself with these
few suggestions you are in with a big chance at a nice fish close to home.
This is BUILD UP BARRA time….Don’t Miss It….’coz it can be Better Than
Runoff!!!
Get into Craigs for the latest info and advice on where the fish are biting!
Photos: Supplied by Craig’s Fishing Warehouse.
Written by Craig Grosvenor
Business Owner
Craig’s Fishing Warehouse
Home to over 400 species of birds,
the Darwin region is a birdwatcher’s
paradise. Join a bird
watching tour, or grab a map and
head out on your own.
Courtesy of NT Government:
Join throngs of birders from all over the
world and take part in one of the region’s
many dedicated bird watching tours, or
stock up on maps and head out on your
own.
Remember to keep to the marked tracks
and obey all signage, we do have some
unique critters in the Territory that don’t
necessarily like to be disturbed.
After the big rains of the wet, you’ll
witness the rivers, floodplains and
billabongs come to life. In the dry season,
you’ll be treated to a spectacular
concentration of birds congregating
around receding water sources.
In and around town
Wander the lush grounds of the Darwin
botanic Gardens, East point or Casuarina
coastal reserve. There are many locations
within a 100km drive from Darwin to spot
some of the most elusive birds such as the
rainbow pitta or the beautiful Gouldian
Finch.
George Brown Botanic Gardens
Casuarina Coastal reserve
East Point Reserve
Day trip from Darwin city
Mary River National Park is a wonderful
wetlands area where you can float
through blue waters and lily-pads. It’s
great place to see birds such as the Azure
Kingfisher, Australasian darter, plus Black
and Whistling Kites. Join a tour to make
the most of your visit so that you can get
out onto the water.
Venture into Litchfield National Park and
enjoy the unique surroundings and back
drops of dramatic waterfalls. Birdwatchers
can see Black Kites and other birds of prey
wheeling overhead and seek out Yellow
Orioles, Figbirds, Koel, Spangled Drongos,
Hey There, Birdy!
Dollarbirds and the Rainbow Bee-eater in
the sheltered areas close to waterfalls.
See large numbers of wading birds at Fogg
Dam Conservation Reserve which is one
of the few wetland systems that is
accessible year-round. Boardwalks take
you through the different landscapes to
observation platforms to view the large
number of resident wading birds.
The Territory Wildlife Park also offers a
great opportunity to see many of the
species that you can find in their natural
habitat, plus they have a fantastic birds of
prey presentation where you can get up
close and personal with some of the
Territories best birds of prey.
With its wonderful array of native
Australian bird life, Kakadu National Park
was voted Australia’s number one
birdwatching destination by Australian
Geographic. With so many distinct
landscapes within the Kakadu National
Park, the birds you can see will vary. You’ll
find waterbirds around billabongs,
kingfishers and honeyeaters in the
woodlands, or grasswrens on rocky
escarpments near Arnhem land. The
biodiversity of Kakadu means you’ll spot
both common and rare bird life on your
trip, so pack your camera!
Always make sure you are croc-wise as
crocodiles do inhabit many of these
areas.
DID YOU KNOW?
Kakadu National Park is home to onethird
of all Australian bird species. One
third! That’s 280 different types of birds
for you to find.
Wetland birds in Kakadu
As the tropical summer hits Kakadu,
signalling the start of mating season, an
influx of waterbirds can be found. In the
wetlands alone there are over 60 bird
species. Some of the most identifiable are
brolgas, comb-crested jacanas, egrets, and
plumed whistling ducks (yes, they
whistle!). The chances of seeing
waterbirds in the wetlands are high, with
most species in this habitat having strong
population numbers. To grow your
birding knowledge why not head to a free
evening lecture, lectures run from 7:30
pm throughout Kakadu Bird Week.
Woodland birds in Kakadu
The woodlands are home to some of
Australia’s most iconic bird life, including
blue-winged kookaburras. The stunning
array of flora in the woodland regions
makes the perfect habitat for small
lorikeets and honeyeaters. The flighty,
bright birds move tree-to-tree eating the
nectar of eucalyptus flowers. If you are
lucky, you may even spot the rare
Gouldian finch. Their blue helmets, purple
chest, and yellow underside make these
multi-coloured birds Australia’s brightest
finch species. If you’re wanting to glimpse
these beautiful birds join a free early
morning woodland birding walk
throughout Kakadu Bird Week.
Birds of Kakadu escarpments
The rocky escarpments in the north of
Kakadu, looking towards Arnhem Land is
home to more wildlife than you might
expect. Despite its dry and barren
appearance, these cliffs have their own
thriving eco-system. Here you can find
chestnut-quilled rock pigeons and the ever
elusive white-throated grasswren. Keep a
careful eye out and you may find them
darting between small tufts of spinifex
(desert grass). Try to catch one of the
free ranger talks at Ubirr during Kakadu
Bird Week to learn more.
References:
https://northernterritory.com/darwin-andsurrounds/see-and-do/nature-and-wildlife/
bird-watching
https://ntbirdspecialists.com.au/
http://www.experiencethewild.com.au/
http://www.tracksbirding.com.au/
58 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 59

START
HERE
What’s a witch’s favorite subject in school?
What is a monster’s favorite dessert?
Spelling.
What happens when a vampire goes in the snow?
I scream!
Frost bite!
60 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 61

The Top Ender
Office.......................................................................................................0419274735
Admin.......................................................admin@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Advertising.....................................advertising@thetopendermagazine.org.au
Website........................................................www.thetopendermagazine.org.au
Emergencies and Useful Contacts
Emergency Services..............................................................................................000
Police Assistance Line................................................................................131 444
1800 IMSICK.......................................................................................1800 467 425
All Hours Support Line..................................................................1800 626 036
COVID-19 Helpline, NT.............................................................1800 0008 002
Crime Stoppers NT.........................................................................1800 333 000
Defence Family Helpline................................................................1800 624 608
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)........................................................139 342
Defence Switchboard......................................................................1300 333 362
Family Violence and Counselling.................................................1800 737 732
Health Direct.....................................................................................1800 022 222
Hospital, Darwin Private Hospital..............................................08 8920 6011
Hospital, Palmerston Regional Hospital...................................08 7979 9200
Hospital, Royal Darwin Hospital.................................................08 8922 8888
Lifeline..............................................................................................................131 114
Night Patrol........................................................................................1800 101 645
Poisons Information Line .........................................................................131 126
Power and Water.............................................................................1800 245 090
Secure NT........................................................................www.securent.nt.gov.au
SES Emergency Helpline............................................................................132 500
Snake Catcher....................................................................................1800 453 210
Tropical Cyclone Information NT..............................................1300 659 211
NT Defence Bases and Establishments
Defence Establishment Berrimah
Front Gate................................................................................08 7971 0008
Mess Manager..........................................08 8935 4422 / 0437 795 258
Larrakeyah Barracks
Front Gate................................................................................08 7971 1189
Officers’ Mess..........................................................................08 8935 5570
ORs’ Mess.................................................................................08 8935 5088
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8935 5580
RAAF Base Darwin
Airmen‘s Mess.........................................................................08 8923 5517
Front Gate................................................................................08 7929 4463
Officers Mess...........................................................................08 8923 5482
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8923 5505
RAAF Base Tindal
Airmen‘s Mess.........................................................................08 8973 6240
Front Gate................................................................................08 8973 6228
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8973 6385
Robertson Barracks
Front Gate................................................................................08 8925 6186
Officers’ Mess..........................................................................08 8925 3650
ORs’ Mess.................................................................................08 8925 2514
Sergeants’ Mess.......................................................................08 8925 6703
Defence Community Houses
Larrakeyah Neighbourhood House............................................0447 586 591
Email...........................................................larrakeyahhouse@hotmail.com
Network Tindal.............................................................................................................
Email.....................................................................networktindal@gmail.com
Robertson Barracks Family Group..............................................0490 151 944
Email.....................................robertsonbarracksfamilygroup@gmail.com
On-base Services
Canteens
AAFCANS
Robertson Barracks, Cafe Central....................................08 8925 2542
RAAF Darwin, Darwin Canteen........................................08 8981 2508
Robertson Barracks, Shout VC Canteen........................08 8925 6720
Tindal Cafe, Convenience & Fuel Station......................08 8973 6201
Navy Canteens
National Operations Manager...........08 8935 5144 / 0477 477 147
Larrakeyah, Outpipes............................................................08 8935 5144
Military Banks
Australian Military Bank
Larrakeyah Barracks...............................................................08 8981 2245
Robertson Barracks...............................................................08 8995 7800
Defence Bank
Larrakeyah Barracks...............................................................08 8935 5499
RAAF Darwin...........................................................................08 7923 2500
Robertson Barracks...............................................................08 8936 6400
Tindal..........................................................................................08 8965 1600
Hairdressers
Larrakeyah Barracks.........................................................................08 8935 5596
RAAF Darwin – Julie-Anne...........................08 8923 5153 / 0402 235 731
Robertson Barracks – Hair Dooz................................................08 8925 3300
Robertson Barracks – South End Barber Shop......................08 8925 6723
Uniform and Equipment
Robertson Barracks, Regional Clothing Store
Retail (Purchases).....................................................................08 7971 7130
CIP (Exchanges)........................................................................08 7971 6920
Tailor...........................................................................................08 7971 7043
Tim’s Medal Mounting.....................................................................0448 129 531
Bulletproof NT..................................................................................08 8947 0935
Chaplains
Army On-call......................................................................................0427 713 963
Navy On-call......................................................................................0409 662 823
RAAF Darwin On-call.....................................................................0477 308 064
RAAF Tindal On-call.......................................................................0427 890 054
Helplines
Lifeline (24hr)................................................................................................131 114
Kids Helpline (24hr)........................................................................1800 551 800
Parent Helpline – Karitane (24hr)..............................................1300 227 464
Parentline.............................................................................................1300 301 300
Defence Community and Veterans
Support Services
Defence Member and Family Support (formerly DCO)
Website........................................www.defence.gov.au/members-families
Defence Family Helpline.........................................................1800 624 608
Darwin Office.............................................................................08 8935 7900
Tindal/Katherine Office...........................................................08 8973 6353
Defence Families of Australia (DFA)
National Convenor...................................................................1800 100 509
National Delegate NT and Kimberly – Jessica Hanison........0418 807 548
Email...............................................................................................nt@dfa.org.au
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).....................................1800 555 254
Website....................................................................................www.dva.gov.au
Defence Service Home Loans........................................................1800 722 000
Provider Enquiries.....................................................................1800 550 457
Kookaburra Kids...................................................................................1300 566 525
Website..............................................................www.kookaburrakids.org.au
Open Arms (24hrs) ...........................................................................1800 011 046
Website........................................................................www.openarms.gov.au
Legacy Northern Territory..............................................................08 8948 0830
Website........................................................................www.legacy.com.au/nt
National ADF Family Health Program.........................................02 6266 3547
Website..................................................................www.adffamilyhealth.com
Red Shield Defence Services – Salvation Army
Gerald & Mairi Mitchell...........................................................0400 642 881
Returned Services League (RSL)
Darwin...............................................................................darwin@rslsa.org.au
Darwin North.............................................................................08 8945 0701
Katherine (via Secretary)........................................................0407 130 095
Nhulunbuy...................................................................................08 8987 0600
Palmerston...................................................................................0488 001 862
Tennant Creek...........................................................................0499 564 031
Veterans Australia (NT) ........................sec@veteransaustraliant.org.au
Advocacy Assistance........................smatdp@veteransaustraliant.org.au
Useful Defence Contacts
Comsuper
ADF Cover..................................................................................1300 001 977
ADF Super...................................................................................1300 203 439
DFRDB..........................................................................................1300 001 677
Military Super (MSBS).............................................................1300 006 727
Defence Housing Australia (DHA)...........................................................133 342
Website....................................................................................www.dha.gov.au
Defence Relocations and Housing Manager NT........................08 7929 4547
Toll Transitions.....................................................................................1800 819 167
Defence Tax Management Office (CTMO)...............................1800 806 053
Health
Australian Breastfeeding Association...........................................1800 686 268
Autism NT.............................................................................................08 8948 4424
Bereaved Parent Support NT|SIDS and Kids NT....................08 8948 5311
24-hour Emergency Support Line.......................................0448 849 234
Birthline Pregnancy Support............................................................1300 655 156
Cancer Council NT
Alice Springs...............................................................................08 8953 5920
Darwin..........................................................................................08 8944 1800
Katherine......................................................................................08 8971 2022
Website..........................................................................www.nt.cancer.org.au
Carers Australia NT......................................................................08 8944 4888
Website......................................................................www.carersnt.asn.au
Childbirth Education Association Darwin.............................08 8948 3043
Website..................................................................www.ceadarwin.asn.au
Community Care Centres
Alice Springs Community Health Centre...................08 8951 6711
Casuarina Community Care Centre.............................08 8922 7301
Katherine Community Health Centre..........................08 8973 8570
Karama Child and Family Health Clinic.......................08 8922 7301
Nhulunbuy Community Health Centre.......................08 8987 0435
Nylander Child Health Clinic..........................................08 8922 7301
Palmerston Community Care Centre..........................08 8999 3344
Tennant Creek Community Health Care...................08 8962 4218
Cradle Support Group.................................................................0438 272 353
Website..........................................................................www.cradle.org.au
Darwin Homebirth Group ........................................................08 8922 5522
Website..................................darwinhomebirthgroup.wordpress.com
Defence Special Needs Support Group (DSNSG)
Website...........................................................................www.dsnsg.org.au
National Coordinator........................................................1800 037 674
Darwin Coordinator.............................................darwin@dsnsg.org.au
Katherine/Tindal Coordinator......................katherine@dsnsg.org.au
Down Syndrome Association NT............................................08 8985 6222
Website.................................................www.downsyndroment.com.au
Epilepsy Centre – Epilepsy Association of SA & NT........1300 850 081
Website.........................................................www.epilepsycentre.org.au
Family Planning NT.......................................................................08 8948 0144
Website.........................................................................www.fpwnt.com.au
Hearing Australia.......................................................................................134 432
Northern Territory Department of Health (DOH)..........08 8999 2400
Website....................................................................www.health.nt.gov.au
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline........................................1800 882 436
Top End Mental Health Service................................................08 8999 4988
Wellness Centre............................................................................08 8946 7176
Website..............................................www.cdu.edu.au/wellness-centre
Sports and Activities
Australian Air Force Cadets 8 Wing
AAFC 801 Squadron – Winnellie..................................08 8923 5713
AAFC 802 Squadron – Driver........................................0473 816 694
AAFC 803 Squadron – Tindal........................................0427 397 495
AAFC 804 Squadron – Alice Springs...........................08 8953 4484
Australian Army Cadets..............................08 8935 5174 / 08 8935 5488
Email............................................................aachq-nt@armycadets.gov.au
Australian Navy Cadets
Training Ship Darwin...........................TSDarwin@navycadets.gov.au
Training Ship Melville Bay...........TSMelvilleBay@navycadets.gov.au
Girl Guides NT...............................................................................08 8981 3628
Website...................................................................www.girlguides.org.au
Playgroups Association NT (PANT).......................................08 8945 7775
Website............................................................www.playgroupnt.com.au
RAAF Darwin Fishing Club.........................................................08 8924 2045
RAAF Darwin Golf Club.............................................................0459 746 306
Swimming
Masters Swimming..............................................................08 8981 5919
Alice AUSSI..........................................thecullenanes@ozemail.com.au
Darwin Stingers.......................................................stingers@iinet.net.au
62 The Top Ender | Tri-Services Magazine Incorporated OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 63

Palmerston Sharks.................................info@palmerstonsharks.com.au
Goldfishbowl Swim School.................................................08 8931 1000
NT Swim School.....................................................................08 8948 1000
Website.................................................www.ntswimschool.com.au
Palmerston & Rural Swimming Club
Head Coach Daniel Gerlach....................................0400 299 622
Swim Dynamics Swim School............................................0421 631 624
Website......................................................www.swimdynamics.com
Scouts NT...........................................................................................08 8948 0994
Website.....................................................................www.nt.scouts.com.au
Surf Life Saving NT..........................................................................08 8985 6588
Website.................................................................www.lifesavingnt.com.au
Local Government and Regional Councils
Alice Springs Town Council..........................................................08 8950 0500
Barkly Regional Council..................................................................08 8962 0000
Belyuen Community Government Council.............................08 8978 5061
Central Desert Regional Council................................................1300 360 605
City of Darwin...................................................................................08 8930 0300
City of Palmerston...........................................................................08 8935 9922
Coomalie Community Government Council..........................08 8976 0058
East Arnhem Regional Council....................................................08 8986 8986
Katherine Town Council................................................................08 8972 5500
Litchfield Council..............................................................................08 8983 0600
MacDonnell Regional Council......................................................08 8958 9600
Nhulunbuy Corporation.................................................................08 8939 2200
Roper Gulf Regional Councils......................................................08 8972 9000
Tiwi Regional Council.....................................................................08 8970 9500
Victoria Daly Regional Council....................................................08 8972 0777
Wagait Shire Council......................................................................08 8978 5185
West Arnhem Regional Council.................................................08 8979 9444
West Daly Regional Council.........................................................08 8901 3920
Government
Bureau of Meteorology..................................................................1800 659 214
Website...............................................................................www.bom.gov.au
Department of Human Services.............................................................132 468
Centrelink
Medicare
Carers..........................................................................................132 717
Families........................................................................................136 150
Complaints and Feedback.........................................1800 132 468
General Enquiries....................................................................132 011
myGov Helpdesk...............................................................................132 307
Motor Vehicle Registry NT...........................................................1300 654 628
Website............................................................................www.mvr.nt.gov.au
Road Report ......................................................................................1800 246 199
Website.............................................................www.roadreport.nt.gov.au
Animal Services and Animal Care
Injured Wildlife
Wildcare Alice Springs.........................................................0419 221 128
Wildcare Darwin....................................08 8988 6121 / 0408 885 341
Darwin Wildlife Sanctuary..................................................0473 992 581
Katherine Wildlife Rescue Services.................................0412 955 336
RSPCA (Darwin)....................................................................08 8984 3795
Pounds and Animal Shelters
Have we missed something?
Alice Springs Animal Shelter..............08 8950 0500 / 08 8953 4430
Darwin........................................................................................08 8947 2099
Katherine...................................................................................08 8972 5500
Palmerston................................................................................08 8935 9977
Snake Catcher....................................................................................1800 453 210
While the information contained in the Handy Directory is considered by the
employees and committee of the Top Ender Tri-Services Magazine Inc to be
true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the
time of publication may render the information inaccurate. The information
may change without notice, and the Top Ender Tri-Service Magazine and
those working on its behalf, cannot be held in any way liable for the accuracy
of any information printed or stored, or in any way interpreted and used, by
the reader.
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