Publication:Sea Talk Summer 2005/Navy engages at SE Qld shopping centres

By Annie Casey, photos by LEUT Chris Woods

Teams of specially chosen and trained Naval Reserve (NR) personnel have set up a temporary 'shopfront site' at Logan Hyperdome and other shopping centres in South East Queensland as part of a 12-week trial.

The NR initiative is part of the new Navy Comprehensive Community Engagement Strategy (NCCES) aimed at increasing Navy visibility in the community.

DCN RADM Max Hancock and CDRE Karel de Laat thank Myer Centre staff Rebecca and Kurt for the Centre

The community engagement program is expected to boost goodwill and knowledge about Navy and positively influence Australians awareness of the Navy and its role.

Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Max Hancock launched the Strategy at the Myer Centre in the Brisbane CBD during South Queensland's Navy Week.

"We're after a couple of key things," he said, "- for people to better understand what it's like to be in a Navy uniform and go to work every day in the Navy, and all the different jobs, categories and skill sets needed to make the Navy work.

"We also want the community to gain a better understanding of what the Navy as a whole - 13,000 people, ships, submarines, aircraft, diving teams and bases contribute to Australia's overall security...and we do make a significant contribution."

NR personnel at the shopfront sites are giving out general information about the Navy and aiming to broaden the inquirers' understanding of the Navy's role and culture.

Jorge Selles and his son chat to CMDR Murray Steel about life in the Navy at the Logan Hyperdome with CPO Bert Abel (background)

NR staff are providing a stand with a lap-top computer loaded with the virtual ship tour and latest Navy video, brochures and artwork.

This 'personal presence model' has already been used effectively by non-profit organisations such as State Emergency Services and the St John's Ambulance Brigade in increasing public awareness.

Other initiatives under the (NCCES) include further development of strategic partnerships with technical training authorities, institutions and providers; increased access to Naval ships, aircraft and bases; and greater engagement with secondary schools, universities and other training authorities.