Recent structural changes undertaken by Army in Launceston as well as the future of Paterson Barracks were the topics of conversation today when Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator Feeney, and the Federal Member for Bass, Mr Geoff Lyons MP, visited Paterson Barracks.

Meeting with Colonel Colin Riley of Capability and Workforce Plans, Headquarters 9th Brigade, they discussed the newly formed 6th/13th Light Battery and Defence’s continued presence in the region.

“Today we were able to discuss the structural changes being undertaken by Army in Launceston, specifically the amalgamation of the 16th Field Battery and the 48th Field Battery to form the 6th/13th Light Battery at Patterson Barracks,” Senator Feeney said.

“The 6th/13th Light Battery will ensure Defence’s continued connection to the local community, which has provided longstanding support to Defence and its members.

“Structural changes under Plan BEERSHEBA will ensure that the Army Reserve remains a robust and relevant part of the Australian Defence Force. The changes will also ensure Army will be able to meet future operational demands, in which the Army Reserve will have a vital role to play,” he said.

Mr Lyons noted the important role that Defence has played in the community of Launceston.

“Today was a good opportunity to reaffirm Launceston’s commitment to Defence and Defence’s commitment to our region,” Mr Lyons said.

Media contacts:

Office of Senator Feeney: Jeffrey von Drehnen 0477 348 476

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999