Publication:Sea Talk Winter 2008/Reserves column

By the Director of Naval Reserve Capability, CAPT Joseph Lukaitis

Capability Enhancement Program update

The CEP achieved its Year Two target of 50 per cent take up of positions and day usage, in February 08 which is a pleasing milestone. The three year program targets the 100 per cent filling of positions by June 2009. Year Three will be a challenge for the NR but an increased internal recruiting drive and the strong acceptance of the program should allow this target to be met.

The CEP is adding capability through new Reserve inputs and notable achievements to date have been:

• The creation of a new reserve diving team in Cairns;
• The establishment of a deployable reserve survey team in the Hydro FEG;
• Start ups for sustained sea going personnel groups in Surface Combatant, Patrol Boat and Amphibious Afloat Support FEGS;
• Establishment of state based Liaison officers for Health Reserves.

There is great potential to develop and expand the sharp end capability contribution by the NR through this program. On the personnel side, Reservists are starting to see the benefits of a permanent home in a FEG from a divisional and training perspective.

Directors Naval Reserve Support

There have been some recent new appointments in the DNRS network. An updated list of directors and their deputies is set out below.

Directors are available to reservists to help with employer issues, including employer support payments. They also have a good knowledge of the Capability Enhancement Program and are able to liaise and provide feedback on Naval Reserve recruiting issues.

If you wish to contact your local director in your state you should contact your reserve regional pool manager or obtain contact details from the Office of DGRES-N, telephone 02 6265 6678.

DNRS-QLD CMDR Andy Clowes

DDNRS-QLD CMDR Jim Huggett

DNRS-QLD NTH CMDR Roger Scovell

DNRS-NSW CMDR Peter Collins

DDNRS-NSW LCDR Phil Smith

DNRS-ACT CMDR John Murray

DNRS-ACT CMDR Pam Price

A/DNRS-VIC CMDR Graeme Furlonger

DNRS-TAS CMDR Dario Tomat

DDNRS-TAS LCDR Iain Weir

DNRS-SA CMDR Steve Dunning

DDNRS-SA LCDR Trish Matthews

DNRS-WA CMDR Neill Phillips

DDNRS-WA LCDR Brett Lane

Career opportunities in the Amphib FEG

The introduction of the two new Canberra class amphibious landing ships (LHD) in 2013 and 2015 will highlight opportunities for expanded reserve service.

Planning is under way to establish how Reservists can best contribute to the demands on personnel during the transition period from the present amphibious force of HMA Ships Tobruk, Manoora, Kanimbla and the LCHs to these two new 27,000 tonne vessels.

A strong focus is being placed on the filling and expansion of the present Amphib FEG reserve positions in anticipation of expanded reserve numbers and contribution over the next five years and ongoing. Positions are based in Garden Island and Reservists who wish to plan their career in this area should contact LCDR Peter Teichmann on 02 9359 6135.

These career opportunities include both headquarters and seagoing positions. Reservists do not have to be Sydney residents to take up a position.