Condolences following the death of Singapore Armed Forces member at Shoalwater Bay Training Area

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Senator the Hon Marise Payne

Minister for Defence

Media contact
  • Henry Budd (Minister Payne’s office) 0429 531 143
  • Defence Media (02) 6127 1999

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16 September 2017

I extend my sincere condolences and those of the Australian Government to the Singapore Armed Forces and the family of full-time National Serviceman 3rd Sergeant Chan Hiang Cheng Gavin following his tragic death as a result of a vehicle incident at Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Queensland on the evening of 15 September 2017.

Approximately 5,000 Singapore Armed Forces personnel are in Australia to participate in Exercise WALLABY, Singapore's major annual unilateral training activity. Australia and Singapore have a deep and enduring defence relationship and our thoughts are with Singapore at this time.

The Australian Government will provide any support needed following this tragic event.

No ADF members or vehicles were involved in the incident.

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