ADF RESERVISTS STRETCH SOUTH QUEENSLAND EMPLOYERS

More than 20 employers from South Queensland will spend this weekend (Friday 11 September – Sunday 13 September) at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera and the Greenbank Training Area discovering the benefits of Reserve service.

They will be participating in Exercise Executive Stretch (EES).  EES gives business executives the opportunity to observe and experience the personal, technical and professional training their employees receive as a member of the Australian Defence Force Reserves.

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP said, “This is a unique opportunity for employers to get amongst the action, as they experience the military training and lifestyle of a Reservist in the Australian Defence Force.”

Activities will include leadership and survival skills training as well as team building exercises and physical challenges.  

Head Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division Major General Greg Melick said EES provides employers with an opportunity to directly experience some of the leadership and management skills that a Reservist can bring to the workplace.

“Our aim is to highlight the skills Reservists gain from being in the ADF and how those skills can benefit civilian employers,” said MAJGEN Melick.

Dr Kelly added, “We want to encourage employers to make use of support measures available through Defence, including the Employer Support Payment Scheme (ESP).

“Qualified employers who release their employees for Reserve service can apply for ESPs of $1183.10 per week.”

For more information about ESPs, and Reserves in general, visit www.defence.gov.au/reserves or call 1800 803 485.

Media contacts:

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

Defence Media Liaison:                                 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Defence Reserves Support Media Contact: Deanna Nott    0438 013 548