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A new $600 million contract has been secured to sustain and upgrade the F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleets for the Royal Australian Air Force, ensuring the retention of more than 350 local Queensland jobs. Boeing Defence Australia has been awarded a five-year contract extension, extending support for the Super Hornet and Growler programs until 2030 at RAAF Base Amberley. The contract emphasizes the Government’s commitment to the Australian Defence industry and workforce, with over 90% of the contract value to be spent in Australia, primarily in south-east Queensland.

Australians in the Defence industry will oversee engineering, maintenance, and project management for the fleets’ sustainment and upgrade. The Air Combat and Electronic Attack Sustainment Contract with Boeing Defence Australia, initiated on July 1, 2016, for an initial five-year period, has been extended for the second time, bringing the overall contract value to $1.2 billion.

As the EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack capability achieves final operational capability, the contract extension becomes crucial. Operated by No. 6 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley, the Airborne Electronic Attack capability includes 12 EA-18G Growler aircraft, the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System, and the AGM-88 series of anti-radiation missiles.

With a focus on maintaining a highly skilled local workforce and top-tier aircraft, this contract extension enhances Australia’s preparedness for potential challenges. The government emphasizes the critical role of a robust Defence industry in protecting Australians and contributing to regional stability. Commending Boeing Defence Australia and all Defence industry partners involved, the government highlights the significance of their efforts in the maintenance and sustainment of the Super Hornet and Growler fleets.

‘My goodness, if the Turks don’t see all this as it goes along, they must be blind,’ wrote war historian CEW Bean in his diary. ‘But as I went along behind them, I began to notice how silently these mules behaved. They had big loads, but they were perfectly quiet. They made no sound at all as they walked except for the slight jingle of a chain now and then … I doubt if you could have heard the slightest noise …  I doubt if at 1,000 yards [915 metres] you could see them at all – possibly just a black serpentine streak.’

The successful secret evacuation of Anzacs from Gallipoli from 15 to 20 December 1915 saw some 36,000 troops evacuated from the peninsula. Despite concerns that the withdrawal of troops could result in heavy casualties, there were virtually none.

Field Marshal Lord Kitchener, Secretary of State for War, recommended the evacuation soon after visiting Gallipoli on 13 November 1915. He arrived on a small boat at North Beach to see the Anzac positions for himself. As the troops eagerly surrounded Kitchener on the pier, he said to them: ‘The King has asked me to tell you how splendidly he thinks you have done. You have done splendidly, better, even, than I thought you would’.

Yet after two hours of surveying the Turkish line from the Australian trenches inland of the Sphinx and at Lone Pine, and two days of consulting with senior commanders, Kitchener saw that it was virtually impossible for any progress to be made against the strengthening Turkish positions. Moreover, local commanders were extremely worried about problems supplying Gallipoli given the severe storms of that winter.

Australian staff officers began planning for the Anzacs to evacuate unseen. The masterful strategy played out almost seamlessly; from the staged withdrawal of troops masked as preparation for a defensive winter campaign, to the quiet moving of columns of mules carrying their evacuation materials.

Many Anzacs were dismayed to be leaving their fallen mates behind.

On 19 December, as he waited to leave, Company Quarter Master Sergeant A L Guppy, 14th Battalion, of Benalla, Victoria, confided his feelings about the withdrawal in his diary. His words probably spoke for them all:

‘Not only muffled is our tread
To cheat the foe,
We fear to rouse our honoured dead
To hear us go.

Sleep sound, old friends – the keenest smart
Which, more than failure, wounds the heart,
Is thus to leave you – thus to part,
Comrades, farewell!’

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ED: From my inbox … the following email from Mauro has some merit in my view.

Thank you for your going updates and interesting articles.  I have noted the ongoing issues with retention of service personal over the years and noticed an article regarding allowing recruitment of personal via our south pacific islands. Has any thoughts gone into the recruitment of Gurkhas and maybe forming regiment as the same modelling as the British defence force has done over the past 100 years. I had the opportunity during my service of being on exercises with Gurkhas and found them to be very professional.

It’s just a thought and I believe it would benefit our defence force and our country.

Regards

Mauro Vella

Ex-1 RAR

Every passing year brings with it a familiar chorus of voices clamouring for the cancellation of Australia Day, creating a cacophony of dissent that echoes through the public discourse. The fervour behind these calls seems to emanate from a desire to reshape the national narrative, with critics often pointing fingers at the elites within the Labor party and public service as the instigators of this movement.

In the aftermath of the failure to establish a designated Indigenous Voice, it appears that a new strategy has emerged—one that seeks to subtly erode the significance of Australia Day. This covert approach involves a gradual dismantling of the foundations of national pride and identity, with Anthony Albanese emerging as a central figure in this shift.

Albanese’s actions have been pivotal in undermining the sanctity of Australia Day. By lifting protections that mandated ceremonies on the historic date of 26 January, he has opened the door for a more flexible interpretation of the national celebration. A particularly unprecedented move is the allowance for public servants in Canberra to independently choose their public holiday—a departure from Australia’s historical traditions.

The influence of Albanese extends beyond national borders, as evidenced by his appointment of Stephen Smith as the High Commissioner to the UK. The cancellation of the Embassy’s annual Australia Day Events under the pretext of “cultural sensitivities” adds another layer to the subtle assault on the national day.

In the wake of these developments, local councils, emboldened by Albanese’s perceived acquiescence, are taking increasingly audacious steps. Australia Day ceremonies are being cancelled, and there are reports of attempts to replace the national flag, an emblem deeply intertwined with the country’s identity and history.

This trajectory of eroding national symbols and traditions is concerning, and it is a call to action for those who hold a deep affection for their country. The rallying cry is clear: proud Australians who cherish their nation, its special day, and the symbolic importance of the flag must stand up and be counted. Otherwise, the encroachment on cherished traditions may continue unabated, leading to a fundamental reshaping of the cultural fabric of Australia.

Our team is very proud to announce our ambassador …

Doug Baird OAM, an Australian rules footballer and a devoted ambassador for Due South. Born on 16 November 1950, Doug’s journey encapsulates not only the thrill of the game but also an enduring commitment to honour, sacrifice, and the well-being of those who have served.

In his prime, Doug graced the football fields as a formidable player with Carlton Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) leaving an indelible mark with statistics correct to the end of 1970. Doug played an impressive 130 games for Cooee Football Club, including pivotal roles in the 1978 and 1982 premiership sides also was captain/coach of Ulverstone Football Club 1983/84 before returning to Melbourne. This extraordinary feat speaks not only to his skill on the field but also to his enduring commitment to excellence.

Doug’s son, Cameron Baird VC MG, emerged as an Australian soldier of exceptional courage, posthumously receiving the Victoria Cross for Australia – the highest military decoration.

As the ambassador of Due South, Doug Baird brings his passion for supporting veterans and emergency responders to the forefront. His dedication to recognising and honouring the sacrifices of theses heroes aligns seamlessly with Due South’s commitment to fostering a community that supports those who served and protected.

Doug Baird’s involvement with Due South is not just a title it’s a heartfelt endeavour to bridge legacies, Cameron Baird’s rare honour of being one of two individuals to receive both the Victoria Cross and the Medal of Gallantry propels Doug to champion a cause that is deeply personal.

In ceremonies and events, Doug proudly wears his son’s medals, symbolising the continuation of legacy defined by the courage and selflessness. Through Due South, Doug amplifies his voice and influence to advocate for the well-being of veterans and emergency responders, ensuring that their sacrifices are acknowledged, and their stories are told.

Doug Baird stands as a beacon, illustrating that the passion for honouring heroes extends far beyond the football field. His ambassadorship is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who serve and commitment to building a community that recognises, supports, and uplifts the brave individuals who have given their all.

Join Doug Baird in the honour with Due South, where legacies meet, and the heart felt service beats strong.

Doug also holds the following positions:

-Patron of the Victoria Cross Trust England

-Vice Paton Australian Bravery Association

-Ambassador Commando Association Queensland

-Vice Ambassador T.P.I Victoria

-Ambassador for ANZAC and Yellow Ribbon Australia

Lieutenant Colonel Wendy Say with veteran and founder of the Kokoda Youth Foundation Doug Henderson in front of the new Canungra Vietnam Memorial at Kokoda Barracks in Queensland. Photos: Private Andrew Shaw

After two years of dedicated volunteer work and community collaboration, the new Canungra Vietnam Memorial opened to veterans, families and the local community with easy access.

The memorial was previously located within the confines of Kokoda Barracks in Canungra, where Australian soldiers trained before deploying to the Vietnam War.

The memorial has moved to the front gates of the barracks to allow access to the wider public.

Veteran volunteers and community members constructed the original memorial in 2000.

A veteran of the 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, Doug Henderson, founder of the Kokoda Youth Foundation, said a collaborative committee supported the project.

“The Land Warfare Centre, once known as the Jungle Training Centre, holds deep-seated memories for us Vietnam veterans. This project pays tribute to the sacrifices and resilience of everyone tied to the Vietnam War, recognising their sheer courage and unwavering strength,” he said.

The new memorial site displays the iconic Long Tan Cross. At the heart of the site stands a life-sized bronze statue of a Vietnam soldier, an addition funded by the Commonwealth Government’s Saluting Their Service grant program.

Reverend Richard Brown, also a former member of 6RAR and a Vietnam veteran, said the site would play a role in helping future generations  understand the importance of commemorations at the memorial.

Reverend Brown said the memorial honoured those brave soldiers who came before us and would serve as a place of reflection for those who continued to serve.

He spoke about his memories of his time at 6RAR.

“Memories of the bus running early in the morning with the mist; the great joy of huffing and puffing up Heartbreak Hill,” Reverend Brown said.

“Then to the grenade assault range, diving from pit to pit, observing the target, prying the grenade on to the next one. The joys of the battle inoculation range going underneath the barbed wire with smoke and Beckles machine gun pouring over.

“And of course, we were invited to share in the obstacle course, the joys of the bear pit – straggling out of there – running over the bit of barbed wire, then the joy of jumping into the beautiful cool water of the Kuma River.”

Lieutenant Colonel Wendy Say, of Kokoda Barracks, said the memorial was the result of community coming together.

“Kokoda Barracks and the Kokoda Youth Foundation have established a wonderful partnership over the years,” Lieutenant Colonel Say said.

“I am so very thankful for the amazing work of the Kokoda Youth Foundation – not just in relation to what they have achieved with the memorial, but also what they do on a daily basis to support Australia’s youth.”

On Thursday, a Houthi drone boat loaded with explosives exploded in the Red Sea, failing to cause any damage or casualties, according to the US Navy. Despite international calls to cease their attacks, the Yemen-based group persisted in its aggressive actions. The incident occurred just a day after 12 nations, including the United States, Britain, and Japan, issued a joint statement warning the Houthis of unspecified “consequences” if they continued their attacks—a move described by a US official as a final warning.

The Houthis, aligned with Iran and controlling a significant portion of Yemen, have been launching a series of drone and missile attacks on commercial vessels since November 19. They claim this is in protest Israel’s military operations in Gaza. These assaults have severely disrupted international shipping, prompting some companies to reroute through the longer and more expensive journey around Africa instead of transiting the Red Sea.

Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, leading US Naval forces in the Middle East, reported that the Houthi explosive boat travelled approximately 50 miles into the Red Sea before detonating in busy shipping lanes. Although it approached within a couple of miles of merchant ships and US Navy vessels, the specific target of the attack remains unclear.

With 25 attacks on merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, Cooper emphasized that there are no indications of the Houthis scaling back their “irresponsible behaviour.” The repeated attacks have heightened pressure on President Joe Biden to respond militarily, but the administration has been cautious, wary of further escalating regional tensions.

Retired four-star Marine general Frank McKenzie criticized the administration’s response as “tentative” and “unfocused,” advocating for a reset of deterrence through decisive actions. The US and other countries-initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian last month to safeguard civilian vessels, with contributions from 22 nations. Cooper disclosed that US and partner forces have successfully intercepted cruise missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and drones in various incidents.

Addressing concerns about potential strikes against Houthi positions, Cooper clarified that the 22-nation coalition’s focus is purely defensive. Despite the Houthis claiming their attacks target vessels with Israeli connections or en route to Israel, many affected ships had no such affiliations, leading major shipping lines to suspend Red Sea operations. Cooper stressed the destabilizing nature of Houthi attacks, urging an immediate cessation in compliance with international law.

With a maritime jurisdiction exceeding 8 million square kilometres. The nation’s historical relationship with the sea has fluctuated from angst to apathy due to the “tyranny of distance,” exacerbated by recent global events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East and the Red Sea.

The government’s Defence Strategic Review (DSR) underscores the renewed importance of maritime security, prompting a significant restructuring of the Royal Australian Navy. This review questions previous procurement decisions and emphasizes a three-pronged approach to modernize maritime combat capabilities, aligning with the nation’s future nuclear-powered submarine fleet.

The DSR advocates for an enhanced surface combatant fleet to complement the submarine force, emphasizing long-range strike, air defence, and anti-submarine warfare. The government’s independent analysis into the Navy’s Surface Combatant Fleet is awaited, sparking public debate on the suitability of vessels like the Arafura and Hunter Class.

Concerns have been raised about the Arafura Class’s lack of main armament, while the Cape Class patrol boats also face criticism for being under gunned. The article questions the logic behind the criticism and highlights the need for a realistic assessment of Australia’s maritime capabilities. Retired Rear Admiral Rowan Moffitt suggests that being honest about Australia’s naval combat capabilities, especially in brown-water environments, is crucial to avoid costly delusions.

The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a transparent discussion between policymakers, elected officials, and the public. It calls for increased long-term defence spending and a shift from a “balanced force” to a “focused force,” acknowledging the challenges of evolving geopolitical and strategic landscapes. Ultimately, the article urges collaboration and transparency to gain public trust and support for the nation’s future direction.