NSW BOSSES PUT TO THE TEST IN WAGGA WAGGA

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM, MP has applauded a group of 50 New South Wales employers for nominating to spend a weekend with Australian Defence Force Reservists at Wagga Wagga.

The employers will be participating in Exercise Executive Stretch (EES) at Blamey Barracks from 5 to 6 September 2009.

Dr Kelly said EES is a Defence program designed to expose employers to the training Reservists undertake and the invaluable skills they gain.

“Defence’s Employer Engagement Program, of which EES is an integral part, is the flagship program through which we engage with employers,” he said.

“It provides a unique opportunity for employers to get amongst the action, as they experience first-hand the military training and lifestyle of a contemporary Reservist.

“As the ADF's commitments grow, Reservists are bringing increased levels of capability to Australia’s Defence Force.

“Without the ongoing support of employers it would not be possible for Reservists to effectively manage their civilian and Service occupations.”

Dr Kelly said the employers would gain a direct insight into the benefits that Reservists can bring back to the civilian workplace.

“EES shows employers how military experience enhances their workers’ wider skill-sets,” said Dr Kelly.

The employers will tackle a range of tasks and leadership challenges including the use of basic infantry tactics and Army equipment such as Night Vision Goggles and navigation tools. They will also have the opportunity to see Army Reservists conducting military construction, hydrographic survey and civil-military cooperation activities.

The employers will test their fitness and endurance over an Army obstacle course under the supervision and guidance of Army Reservists.

The EES, coordinated by Defence Reserves Support - New South Wales, is being hosted by Wagga Wagga Reserve units 1st/19th Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Regiment, and the 5th Combat Supply Support Battalion.

For information about Defence Force Reserves visit: www.defence.gov.au/reserves or call 1800 803 485.

Media note:
A unique photo opportunity exists when participants of Exercise Executive Stretch tackle the obstacle course, high ropes, flying fox stands and hot air balloon at Blamey Barracks.

Interested media are to meet at the front gate of Blamey Barracks at 8.45am Saturday, 5 September where they will be signed-in to the barracks and transferred onto (and around) the barracks by military vehicle escorted by Captain Rod O’Donnell.

Current photo ID is essential to gain entry to the barracks.

Media contacts:

Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly):             02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220

Defence Media Liaison:                         02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Please note Defence Media has a new phone number: 02 6127 1999.

The existing number will be automatically diverted to the new number for three months.  The existing after-hours duty mobile 0408 498 664 will remain.

Further information (Media Opportunity) - Captain Rod O'Donnell 0407 998 366

Media Contact (Exercise Executive Stretch) - Deanna Nott 0438 013 548