Publication:Sea Talk Summer 2006/Reserves column

By CAPT Joseph Lukaitis*

As the year closes and we reflect on the achievements of 2006, it is fair to conclude that it has been an exceptional and significant year for the Naval Reserve.

First, the launch in February and initial implementation of the Naval Reserve Capability Enhancement Program from July 2006 has defined real goals for the NR while providing training and career paths for individual reservists.

The establishment of 103 new positions and additional funding for these positions and Reserve special categories is designed to add to the "sharp end" capability contribution by the Reserve.

Recruiting of Reservists for these new positions is on track and will see an increase of $2.36m per annum in the NR budget upon maturity of the program in year 2008-09.

Second, this year has seen major increases in Reserve salaries, particularly because of removal of the Reserve "discount" which set Reserve salaries at 85 per cent of PN salaries. All Reservists have welcomed this long-overdue overhaul. Additionally, Active Reservists who undertake 20 days duty will receive an annual $600.00 health allowance.

Third, the establishment of the NR Senior Management Group (NRSMG) this year brings together the senior Reserve leadership within the offices of DGNPT, DGRES-N and DGNCPP. The group meets quarterly and is able to plan cohesively and implement change consistently. This development will benefit the RAN greatly over time.

PBFEG - New positions available

The Patrol Boat FEG Capability Enhancement Program positions have now been stood up and are being advertised widely throughout the NR community.

If you are interested in a seagoing career in the new Armidale class patrol boats, there are immediate opportunities available.

The Armidale patrol boats are based in Darwin and Cairns but the new positions are open to Reservists who live away from Darwin and Cairns as well as locals. The CEP budget provides funding for travel and training over the next three years and ongoing, and contemplates the use of interstate Reservists in the PBFEG as part of normal business.

Specific categories and ranks for the various new positions are:

• ABCIS, LSCIS
• LSNPC
• ABMT, LSMT, CPOMT
• ABET, LSET
• SBLT SMN, LEUT SMN, LCDR SMN

Initial plans for Reservists posted to PBFEG positions will be for them to undertake a period of familiarisation sea-time augmenting PN Armidale crews.

If you are a volunteer and want to know more you should contact LEUT Neil Forsyth at the PBFEG on (08) 8935 5393 or RRP Northern Australia on (08) 8935 5283.

• Director Naval Reserve Capabilities