April 2022
True Blue OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE UNITED NATIONS & OVERSEAS POLICING ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
Edition 43 ISSN: 2203-8507
Magazine
ARE THEY TRIPLE OK?
We’re always there to help. Let’s make sure we help each other and ask R U OK? ruok.org.au/triple-ok
True Blue
Magazine
The United Nations & Overseas Policing Association of Australia, (UNOPAA) is an Australian incorporated, non-profit organisation, whose members are both serving or retired Police Officers from Police Forces throughout Australia, who have served or are serving with United Nation Peacekeeping Forces or AFP International Policing Operations throughout the world! TRUE BLUE is provided to its members throughout Australia and worldwide to where Australian Police are serving. Our magazine contains welfare, legislative and social information relevant to the well-being and camaraderie of UNOPAA members who have, or are serving in Australia’s National Interest. Aims of the UNOPAA: 1. To maintain and foster the memory of UNOPAA members killed whilst serving with United Nations Forces or Overseas Policing operations. 2. To provide welfare, legal and financial support where and when appropriate to members. 3. To promote social occasions such as Reunions, etc., United Nations and Anzac Day Marches. 4. To pursue and lobby industrial, legal and political avenues, when necessary in order to improve the welfare and industrial benefits to our members. We acknowledge the assistance of Countrywide Austral Pty Ltd, who, in conjunction with the UNOPAA, have made the publication and distribution of ‘TRUE BLUE’ magazine possible! Your financial contribution to the publication of our magazine is greatly appreciated.
Views and opinions expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the United Nations & Overseas Policing Association of Australia, the editor, the publisher or printer. “True Blue” is published by Countrywide Austral Pty Ltd, Melbourne from funds supplied by advertisers in this magazine. Please support our advertisers and their products.
Rod Walker True Blue Editor Email: enidandrod@tpg.com.au Mobile: 0411 953 966
UNOPAA Contacts National President Mr Mick Travers APM Mobile: 0418 297 086 Email: mt2976@gmail.com National Vice President Mr Rod Walker Tel: 0411 953 966 Email: enidandrod@tpg.com.au National Vice President Mr Dale Cooper RFD PO Box 7099 Karabar NSW 2620 Mobile: 0418 266 033 Email: unopaa@gmail.com National Secretary/Treasurer Mr Peter McDonald APM 28A Dinah Parade, Keilor East Vic 3033 Mobile: 0418 131 352 Email: vp14970@gmail.com Australian Capital Territory State President: Dale Cooper RFD PO Box 7099 Karabar NSW 2620 Mobile: 0418 266 033 Email: unopaa@gmail.com New South Wales State President: Mark Elm Email: markrobinelm1969@icloud.com
Proudly published by:
Victoria/Tasmania State President: Shaun Young Knox Police Complex, 414 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South VIC 3152 Tel. (03) 9881 7061 Mobile: 0438 508 229 Email: shaun.young@police.vic.gov.au Queensland State President: John Walker APM Unit 230, 96 Village Way, Little Mountain QLD 4551 Mobile 0474 157 982 Email: whiskeywalker41@gmail.com South Australia State President: Garry Casey 40 Yarrabee Road, Greenhill SA 5140 Tel: 08 8390 3568 Mobile: 0427 188 449 Email: garryecasey@yahoo.com.au Western Australia State President: Darcy Boylan 21 Templemore Drive Heathridge WA 6027 Tel: 08 9402 0030 Mobile: 0408 120 299 Email: gdboylan@bigpond.com Northern Territory President: Allan Mitchell 5 Eureka Court Anula NT 0812 Tel: 08 8927 2676 Mobile: 0417 804 546 Email: almitch@bigpond.com.au
Countrywide Austral Pty Ltd ABN: 83 146 901 797
Level 2, 310 King Street, Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph: 03 9937 0200 • Fax: 03 9937 0201 Email: contact@cwaustral.com.au
1
True Blue April 2022
Cover Photo – Victorian Officers Remembered
Contents 5 From the Editor’s desk 6 UNOPAA President, Mick Travers APM, retires from the Australian Federal Police 10 AFP officer posthumously awarded for his service in Solomon Islands 12 Victorian Officers Remembered 13 Major General Ronald Alwyn Grey AO DSO (Retd) 14 Canberra to get new crime-funded Australian Museum of Policing 16 Australia commemorates 80th anniversary of Darwin Bombing 17 Australian Police who have died on Overseas Missions 18 UNOPAA Norfolk Island Conference 2022 22 South Australia Police Memorial in Adelaide 23 Around the Missions 24 New Special Representative of the SecretaryGeneral arrives in Cyprus 25 SRSG Stewart meets both leaders 25 Women’s walk and talk marks UN Day celebrations in Cyprus
2
26 Peacekeepers assist Pope Francis’ visit to Cyprus 27 Solomon Islands Commander thanks the troops in virtual muster 28 RAPPP Foundational Enabling Services Project Supports RSIPF Infrastructure 29 Chinese police begin work in the Solomon Islands 30 China set to sign first security deal in the Pacific on Australia’s doorstep 32 Commissioner Mangau thanked PNG contingent for a great support to RSIPF during last year’s civil unrest 33 MoU sign between MPNSCS, RSIPF and AFP 34 What’s happening in Timor Leste 36 Why does Australia drive on the left-hand side? 38 Tips to look after your husband 39 Vale 40 Membership Renewal or Application 41 Merchandise
True Blue April 2022
6
14
16
25
27
34
Do we have your Email Address? UNOPAA maintains a membership database and communicates with its members from time to time by email. If you haven’t been receiving these communications, it may be that we don’t have your email address, or it is out of date. If uncertain, or it appears we don’t have it, please send your email address to the Secretary, Peter McDonald, at vp14970@gmail.com
3
Being online has made meeting and interacting with others easier than ever before, but it’s important to know how to stay safe. Here are ThinkUKnow’s top tips for safer online interactions: • • • •
Question suspicious accounts, and trust your instincts if something doesn’t seem right - not everyone is who they say they are. Avoid meeting someone in person that you have only ever spoken to online. However, if you do meet, choose a public place and take someone with you. If something goes wrong, know how to block or un-match and report. Your safety should always come first!
Sometimes things don’t go to plan but there is always help available. For more information, visit www.thinkuknow.org.au ThinkUKnow is a national online child safety program led by the Australian Federal Police, delivered in schools through educational presentations and resources for young people and their parents and carers.
True Blue April 2022
From the Editor’s desk Congratulations to our UNOPAA President (Mick Travers APM) on his retirement from the AFP after nearly 41 years’ service, read the article about Mick’s career in this issue. It’s back on – after the disappointment of having to postpone our Reunion and AGM on Norfolk Island last year we have been able to reschedule it for October this year. The dates have been altered slightly (to accommodate UN Day) but only by a couple of days. If you were thinking of going last year but were put off by COVID concerns, please reconsider and join us this year. You are guaranteed a great week of fellowship, scenery and history. See the article in this issue re the Reunion and contact Norfolk Island Travel directly to make your booking.
There are some interesting articles in this issue and some articles of concern. Many of us have/had been deployed to the Solomon Islands over the past 18 years to assist the Solomon people during their time of need. This work continues today including the deployment of Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Island Police personnel during the recent riots and the ongoing capacity building projects. It is concerning to see that the Solomon Islands Government is proposing to sign
an MOU with China which will see Chinese warships anchored off Honiara (and other Solomon Islands). I am dismayed that all the work, sacrifices and effort that contributing countries have provided over the years (including the death of one of our own) is now being overshadowed by China. Excuse me for being a bit brash, but I don’t remember China coming to the aid of the Solomon Islands during the tensions (or since) yet here they come as bold as anything offering assistance in return for the strategic placing of their warships and calling it ‘resupply’ purposes. This is extremely close to Australia and will be a ‘watch and see’ exercise. There are also articles on: • The posthumous awarding of medals to Adam Dunning; • The 80th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin; • A new Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) to UNFICYP; • A new Australian Ambassador to Timor Leste; and • The announcement of a National Police Museum to be located in Canberra. Until next issue or until I see you on Norfolk Island.
Rod Walker Editor True Blue
NOT EVERYONE CAN READ THIS fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too. I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno’t mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? Yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! If you can raed tihs SHARE IT Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can.
5
True Blue April 2022
UNOPAA President, Mick Travers APM, retires from the Australian Federal Police After a policing career of almost 41 years, Superintendent Michael (Mick) Travers APM has retired from the Australian Federal Police. Superintendent Travers’ career began with ACT Policing, where he spent a significant amount of time in the Rescue Squad. Achievements across his career include responding to the Thredbo Landslide in 1997, his prominent role in the AFP’s response to the 2002 Bali Bombings, the 2004 Australian Embassy Bombing in Jakarta, and the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami in Thailand. He was awarded the AFP Bravery Medal and the Group Bravery Citation from the Australian Bravery Decorations Council for his efforts in saving the AFP Weston Complex, which was under threat from the 2003 Canberra Bushfires.
6
To celebrate his retirement, Superintendent Travers was honoured at a ceremony last week alongside his wife Michelle (pictured here), a retired AFP Sergeant. He received the Commissioner’s Medallion for Tenacity and Dedication, the highest honour in the AFP Honours and Awards Framework. This is this first ever time this honour has been awarded. On behalf of the Australian Federal Police, we wish Superintendent Travers a happy retirement and thank him for his service to the AFP and the Australian community. Source: AFP Hub – 13 December 2021
True Blue April 2022
FROM THE EDITOR I spent the majority of my policing career working alongside both Mick and Michelle in some capacity or other. I am proud to call both ‘good friends’ and we catch up regularly – if not in person, then via phone or on social media. At the last Darwin Reunion (in 2011) our (then President) Denis Percy decided that he would stand down from the position after 20 plus years in the job. We needed a new president and we needed someone with their finger on the pulse. I rang Mick, who was (then) at Sydney Airport waiting to board a plane to Darwin to join us. I asked him if he was interested in the job. His answer (without hesitation) was I’ll do it if you stay on as Vice President. At the AGM that same afternoon, Mick was elected President of the UNOPAA. I remember addressing those gathered after the AGM and stating that we had a new president, but he doesn’t know it yet. It wasn’t until Mick (and Michelle plus family) had landed in Darwin later that evening that I advised him that he been elected president. He took it in his stride and said, ‘well let’s get on with it’. The rest is history. To a degree, I have followed Mick (operationally) throughout his policing career. As young constables we were on the road together although working from different stations in the ACT. When I arrived in Cyprus in 1987, Mick was one of the previous contingent members that my contingent was replacing. Mick subsequently did another tour with UNFICYP in the 1993. Later on, he also served in East Timor and the Solomon Islands with RAMSI. Mick joined the Search and Rescue Squad in 1988 and was one of the first responders to the Thredbo Landslide in 1997. Indeed, he was one of the team who located Stuart Diver and extracted him from the rubble (something that had not been widely recognised in media reports). At the same time, I responded as the AFP’s Welfare Officer to Thredbo, and we worked together, alongside NSW Police, to ensure (not only) the welfare of Police S&R personnel but also victims and families of victims. Mick found his calling a few years later in the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) field. It wasn’t long before Mick became one of the world’s leading DVI experts. His experiences in this field, including the 2002 Bali Bombings, 2004 Australian Embassy in Jakarta, the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami in Thailand and the 2007 Garuda aircraft crash at Yogyakarta, Indonesia, held him in high esteem across the world and he was regularly called upon to establish and train DVI Teams in many countries, as well as here in Australia. Is it any wonder that Mick received the Australia Police Medal (APM) for his work in this field?
Mick receiving an AFP Ceremonial Sword from AFP Deputy Commissioner Brett Ponting
In later years Mick was transferred to the position of Officer in Charge of Security at Parliament House in Canberra. Many of you who attended the 50th Anniversary of Australian Police in Cyprus in 2014 (in Canberra) may have wondered how the UNOPAA managed to get the ‘Great Hall at Parliament House’ for our formal dinner – now you know!!! Mick moved on from Parliament House and was placed in charge of the AFP’s Protocol and Ceremonial area. In this capacity, Mick has expanded the AFP’s acknowledgement, not only of it’s internal awards, but also of the organisation’s motivation to nominate deserving officers for recognition at a national level through Government House. Many of you should have noticed the tremendous support the AFP has provided the UNOPAA over the past 10 years. Yes – it has been Mick’s influence with the senior executive of the AFP that has resulted in this fantastic partnership between the two organisations. I was honoured to be invited to Mick’s farewell dinner, held at the AFP College where he was not only presented with the Commissioner’s Medallion for Tenacity and Dedication but also letters from the Governor General and Commissioner Kershaw APM and an AFP Ceremonial Sword. During the presentations Commissioner Kershaw advised those gathered that Mick was the AFP’s highest decorated officer. Well done Mick and congratulations on a magnificent career – something you should be very proud of – enjoy your retirement.
Rod Walker Editor True Blue
7
True Blue April 2022
His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia SUPT Michael (Mick) Travers APM
I am delighted to provide this message of congratulations to Mick Travers on the occasion of his retirement from the AFP. The evening will be a memorable one as you reflect, recognise and celebrate Mick’s outstanding career and exemplary service. It will be particularly special for Mick’s family - wife Michelle, son Isaac and daughter Ruby - whose love and support has been integral to the successes being celebrated tonight. Mick travers embodies everything that is good about Policing. Over the course of the past 40 years both in Australia and on deployments overseas Mick has helped protect people, families and communities, and provided comfort and closure to many in the aftermath of tragedy. His legacy of ‘service before self’ will resonate strongly inside AFP circles for generations to come. From his early days in Police rescue in 1981, to the AIDEX ‘91 arms exhibition in Canberra through to being one of the First Responders to the Thredbo landslide in 1997 and AFP DVI Coordinator for the 2009 Black Saturday fires in Victoria, Mick has made a significant contribution. Internationally, he was twice deployed to Cyprus to join UN peacekeeping missions and was part of AFP DVI responses to the Bali bombings, the Australian Embassy in Jakarta bombing and the Boxing Day Tsunami. Many awards followed, including the Australian Police Medal in 2007. He has served under every Commissioner since the AFP was formed back in 1979, testament to his unwavering commitment to Policing and the Police Force. Mick, on behalf of all Australians, Linda and I congratulate you on an outstanding career and thank you for your Service.
Letter from the Governor General
8
True Blue April 2022
Dear Superintendent Mick Travers I write to acknowledge your work and dedication to the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and to thank you for your distinguished service to the organisation since you joined us in January 1981. You leave us having served under every Commissioner since the AFP’s foundation in 1979. In your over 40 years of police service you have successfully taken on varied and notable positions including in ACT Policing (including General Duties as well as Search and Rescue), Commonwealth Territories (including Norfolk Island), Forensics, Protection, International and People and Culture Command. Most recently, as Superintendent of Recognition, Protocol, Ceremonial and AFP Reserves, you have shaped the way in which the AFP celebrates its proud history, achievements and traditions, farewells appointees and provides a pastoral care services to families. You have contributed to international peacekeeping as part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces in Cyprus and Timor-Leste, and regional capacity building missions in the Solomon Islands, representing the AFP, and Australia more broadly to our international counterparts. You have also been involved in a number of high profile policing operations, particularly as a disaster victim identification coordinator where the true value of your skills, expertise and diplomacy shone through. This included your leading roles in AFP’s response to the 1997 Thredbo disaster the 2002 terrorist attacks in Bali, the 2004 Australian Embassy bombing in Jakarta the 2003 bushfires in Canberra, the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2008 Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria. These roles are a reflection of your significant commitment and compassion to not only the job and the AFP but to the communities we serve. I congratulate you on the multiple and varied medals and awards you received during your career. As the AFP’s most decorated officer, an honour in and of itself, you have received: Australian Police Medal, National Emergency Medal for Operations AMICUS, National Police Service Medal, National Medal with 35 year clasp, Group Bravery Citation for ACT BUSHFIRES, G20 Citation, AFP Bravery Medal for CANBERRA BUSHFIRES WESTON COMPLEX, Commissioner’s Medal for Excellence for RCP COMMITMENT, ACT Emergency Medal, AFP Service Medal with 40 year clasp, Commissioner’s Group Citation for Conspicuous Conduct for NPRD2020 and AFP 40 year Anniversary Citation. You have also received significant recognition for your international efforts through: Police Overseas Medal with clasps CYPRUS, TIMOR LESTE, and RAMSI, Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal for TSUNAMI INDIAN OCEAN, Commissioner’s Commendation for Excellence Overseas Service for OP ALLIANCE, AFP Operations Medal with clasps ALLIANCE, CAWDOW, SERENE and AREW, Commissioner’s Group Citation of Excellence Overseas Service for Jakarta Embassy bombing and United Nations Medal for CYPRUS. Finally, as National President of the United Nations and Overseas Policing Association (UNOPAA) you provide a platform to foster positive relationships and improve the welfare for members who have served in UN missions and other peacekeeping operations. I am pleased to be the national patron of the UNOPAA and look forward to future engagements with the UNOPAA Executive and its members. On behalf of the AFP, thank you for your commitment and outstanding services to the organisation, to law enforcement and to the Australian and international communities. You leave not only an impressive service and award history, but a lasting legacy across the organisation through your genuine dedication. Thank you again for your service and I wish you and your family all the very best into your retirement. Yours sincerely
Reece P Kershaw APM Commissioner
Letter from Commissioner Kershaw APM.
9
True Blue April 2022
AFP officer posthumously awarded for his service in Solomon Islands AFP Protective Service Officer Adam Dunning, who was shot and killed while on patrol in Solomon Islands in 2004, has been posthumously awarded four medals commemorating his service and sacrifice for Australia and the Pacific region. AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw recently presented PSO Dunning’s mother and father with the medals and a framed Plaque of Appreciation from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at a ceremony in Canberra.
He has also been posthumously awarded the AFP Protection Medal, as recognition for what would have been 10 years cumulative service in a protection function for the AFP. The RSIPF also posthumously awarded PSO Dunning with two awards following written correspondence between Commissioner Kershaw and RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau.
Commissioner Kershaw said the posthumous awards highlighted the importance of PSO Dunning’s contribution through his service to the AFP, RSIPF, Solomon Islands and Australia. “The AFP lost a courageous and professional young officer, and the people of Australia and the Solomon Islands lost a dedicated young man committed to serving Australia and the Pacific Islands, with his colleagues,” Commissioner Kershaw said. “Adam died for peace, law and order. These new awards reinforce our commitment to ensuring his work and untimely death will always be remembered by his colleagues in the Australian Federal Police and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force.” The highly-decorated officer joined the AFP in 2003 and was deployed as a member of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in 2004. In the early hours of 22 December 2004, PSO Dunning, who was 26 years old, was on patrol in the Solomon Islands capital Honiara with another officer when he was shot and killed.
10
He has been granted the RSIPF Medal for Excellence and the International Law Enforcement Cooperation (ILEC) medal. AFP Protective Service Officer Adam Dunning.
His remains were repatriated to Australia and he was given a funeral with full police honours at Duntroon Chapel, Canberra. AFP Honours and Awards has been working closely with Government House and the RSIPF to ensure PSO Dunning’s eligibility for these latest awards. Following this process, he has been awarded the National Medal, which recognises 15 years’ uniformed service to Australia. PSO Dunning had served in the Royal Australian Air Force before joining the AFP. This service included time in East Timor as part of Operations Warden and Stabilise for which his unit was awarded a Meritorious Unit Citation.
The ILEC medal was created to recognise international law enforcement participation in Solomon Islands, including during RAMSI. PSO Dunning’s untimely death after 115 days in the country resulted in him not meeting the eligibility requirement of 180 days in mission. The RSPIF agreed and deemed him eligible based on the assumption he would have served the 180 days if not murdered. The concept of deeming a fallen member’s service as eligible for service awards is a tradition observed to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty and is practiced in the AFP Service Medal criteria. Source: AFP News 9 February 2022
True Blue April 2022
Dunning’s parents lay flowers at the AFP Pool of Remembrance (Located at the AFP College).
Commissioner Kershaw and the parents of Adam Dunning.
Commissioner Kershaw with the parents of Adam Dunning at the presentation ceremony.
11
True Blue April 2022
AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw (APM) lays a wreath at the National Police Memorial in remembrance of the 4 fallen officers
Victorian Officers Remembered A Victorian State Memorial Service was held in Melbourne to honour the lives of the four Victoria Police Officers tragically killed on Wednesday 22 April 2020.
To honour their legacies, Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw attended the National Police Memorial in Canberra and placed a wreath in remembrance of Leading Senior Constable Taylor, Senior Constable King, Constable Humphris and Constable Prestney. The officers were added to the National Police Memorial on National Police Remembrance Day on 29 September 2020. We will remember - hasten the dawn. Source: AFP Facebook Page 4 February 2022
12
True Blue April 2022
Major General Ronald Alwyn Grey AO DSO (Retd) The Australian Federal Police was informed of the death of former Commissioner Major General Ronald Alwyn Grey AO DSO (Retd). Major General Grey was appointed as the second Commissioner of the AFP in February 1983 after a distinguished 35-year career in the Australian Defence Force. Major General Grey played a significant role in expanding the AFP’s International Liaison Network from four to 12 countries during his tenure. The network now has AFP representatives in 33 countries and continues to play an important part in the AFP’s mission to combat serious organised crime. Major General Grey endorsed a drive to modernise police methodology, with his term as Commissioner including the introduction of significant legislative reforms in the areas of telephone interceptions, proceeds of crime and cash transaction reports. The AFP undertook Operation Lavender during his tenure, a drug seizure that culminated in the arrest of 20 offenders in August 1985 and the dismantling of a major criminal enterprise involved in drug trafficking. Major General Grey also led significant reforms in ACT Policing which resulted in reductions in property-related crime and the expansion of the Neighbourhood Watch program. AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw said Major General Grey was critical in leading the early development of the AFP into the world-leading law enforcement agency it is today. He served five years as Commissioner during the organisation’s formative years. “It was during his tenure that the AFP significantly expanded the number of officers in offshore liaison roles to better combat the criminal threats targeting our country, and his emphasis on the value of criminal intelligence to target organised crime is a legacy that continues to this day. “The AFP and Australia owes Major General Grey a great deal of thanks for ensuring the safety of the community we live and work in. “I extend our condolences to Major General Grey’s family at this sad time, but also our appreciation for everything he did for this country throughout his accomplished career.”
Commissioner Reece Kershaw APM Australian Federal Police
A Catafalque Party was posted at Major General Grey’s casket which bore both the Australian Army and AFP caps
13
True Blue April 2022
Canberra to get new crime-funded Australian Museum of Policing Canberra is to get a new National Museum devoted to Australian Policing and it is to be paid for by criminals. The Morrison government is to announce $4.4 million on Friday (25 March) drawn from proceeds of crime, to establish a permanent Museum of Australian Policing in 2023 near the National Museum of Australia on Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin. An Australian first covering all policing jurisdictions, many of the initial planned exhibits will be drawn from the AFP Museum collection including the INTERPOL Red Notice of Australian fugitive Christopher Skase, diving suits and rescue equipment from the 2018 Thai Cave rescue, forensic evidence retrieved from the 2002 Bali bombing and a 1974 Ford Falcon XB ACT Policing pursuit car.
14
“It’s the first Museum of Australian Policing in the country and will showcase the history of State and Territory Law Enforcement, plus the AFP,” Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said. “The general public and tourists will be able to see exhibits from some of the most significant police operations in our nation’s history – the investigations led by the AFP not only captured the attention of Australians, but the world.” The wetsuits and face masks worn by the AFP divers during the sensational Thai Cave rescue were recently exhibited at the Canberra Museum and Art Gallery.
True Blue April 2022
Some of the memorabilia and mementos that will be on show in the new Museum of Policing.
The new National Museum will also feature other exhibits from the AFP Museum collection including a door seized in Western Australia from a laboratory set up by the Japanese sect responsible for the 1995 deadly Tokyo nerve gas attack. The Aum Shinrikyo sect purchased a rural station in 1993 to conduct gas testing. There will also be a fibreglass drug boat which was split open by the AFP in 1998 to reveal it was carrying 225 x 1-kilogram blocks of cocaine worth an estimated $980 million at the time, as well as fragments of a panel from the Sofitel Magic Lagoon Hotel in Khao Lak, Thailand, that was destroyed in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.
There is also evidence from the Bali bombing, which killed 202 people of which 88 were Australian, including a drink coaster and an Irish flag from Paddy’s Bar, fabric from the suicide vest and pieces of signage from the Sari Club. The funding for the new museum comes from criminal assets confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Since 2013, the Coalition has distributed more than $209 million under the Act.
Source: Canberra Times – 25 March 2022
15
True Blue April 2022
Australia commemorates 80th anniversary of Darwin Bombing On this day in 1942, the sky above Darwin roared as a battery of Japanese bombs rained down onto the city. Now on the 80th anniversary of the Darwin Bombings, Australians have commemorated what is the largest single attack ever launched by a foreign power on the country. During World War II, Darwin was a crucial part of Australia’s defence amid the outbreak of war in the Pacific. Coastal defence batteries were established, and garrisons expanded in Darwin, which was frequently used as a base from which forces were deployed to aid in the defence of the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia, against Japan. Japan had become increasingly aggressive since the 1930s as it sought to conquer more territories and defeat China. And in an effort to protect its military actions on Timor and invasion of Java, Japan executed the large-scale air raid on Darwin on February 19. At least 252 service personnel and civilians were killed after more than 260 Japanese fighters and bombers hit Darwin’s port and shipping harbour twice during the day. A ceremony was held today in Darwin’s Bicentennial Park to mark 80 years since the bombing. Thousands of people were in attendance, including descendants of survivors and war veterans. Prime Minister Scott Morrison was also present and paid respects to the memory of those who had lost their lives in the attack as well as those who lived through it.
16
“19 February 1942 marked an awakening. As the author Peter Grose argues, if the birth of Australia as a nation took place on the shores of Gallipoli, then it was on this day, at this place, that an independent Australia took charge of its destiny,” Mr Morrison said.
that nation, on this day, has now become one of our most trusted and loyal friends,” Mr Morrison said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the strong relationship Australia and Japan share today.
“Darwin showed the resilience, courage and strength of Australian culture,” Mr Albanese said.
“That enemy that inflicted such violence on this city and this
Source: Sonia Lal Channel 9, Feb 19, 2022
Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese was also in Darwin and said today was a day to remember the strength of Australians.
True Blue April 2022
Australian Police who have died on Overseas Missions Following the extension of our membership criteria to include all Australian police who have served in an official capacity overseas, UNOPAA has been looking at any significant events involving that service. We particularly honour the six Australian police who have died when serving as peacekeepers, however it has been pointed out that there others who have also tragically passed away. Our research to date has identified three. One Australian police officer who died in
Colombia in 1993 and two Australian police who died in Indonesia in 2007. All in plane crashes. The circumstances of their deaths are detailed below. Each is honoured on the National Police Memorial in Canberra. May they rest in peace.
SUPERINTENDENT ROBERT EDMUND SHEPHERD
COMMANDER BRICE STEELE (LEFT) SERGEANT MARK DAVID SCOTT (RIGHT)
Year of death: 1993 Jurisdiction: Australian Federal Police Details of death Superintendent Robert Shepherd commenced with the Commonwealth Police Force in June 1975, being sworn into the Australian Federal Police in 1979. Superintendent Shepherd was killed on 19 May 1993 when a Colombian plane crashed into a mountain in Colombia. The crew of seven and about 125 passengers were killed. At the time Superintendent Shepherd was the AFP’s Liaison Officer at Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Year of death: 2007 Jurisdiction: Australian Federal Police Details of death Commander Brice Steele commenced with the Australian Federal Police in July 1990, and Sergeant Mark Scott in September 1987. On 7 March 2007 an Indonesian plane crashed on landing in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Both Commander Steele and Sergeant Scott were among the 21 passengers who died as a result of the crash. They were travelling as part of an advance team ahead of the visit of the Australian Attorney-General and the Foreign Affairs Minister.
17
True Blue April 2022
UNOPAA Norfolk Island Conference 2022 Sun 23 – Sat 29 Oct 2022 Your UNOPAA 2022 Norfolk Island Conference Travel Packages are ready to go! The UNOPPA Committee and conference organisers have arranged for travel packages inclusive of all conference activities that are now ready and available for booking. The venue for the conference is at Governors Lodge on Norfolk Island and the hotel is also our chosen accommodation for the week. Travel Packages are for 7 nights and available departing Sydney or Brisbane. Packages start at $2,419pp twin share from Sydney and $2,409pp twin share from Brisbane. This price includes:
✓✓ Return economy class airfare to Norfolk Island ex Brisbane or Sydney ✓✓ All pre-paid airline taxes ✓✓ Meet & Greet at Norfolk Island Airport ✓✓ Return airport transfers on Norfolk Island ✓✓ Seven nights accommodation ✓✓ Seven days car hire (includes hire car surcharges, petrol is extra and payable direct whilst on the island) ✓✓ Daily fully cooked breakfast ✓✓ Welcome Dinner at Paradise Hotel ✓✓ Half Day Island Orientation tour ✓✓ UN Day parade to Cenotaph (UNOPAA members) followed by All Saints Church Service (transfers incl) ✓✓ UNOPAA 2022 AGM at Governors Lodge (for those attending. Tea and coffee included) ✓✓ Dinner at the Norfolk Island RSL including entertainment (drinks at own expense. Transfer incl) ✓✓ Reception at Government House by the Administrator of Norfolk Island (Transfer incl) ✓✓ UNOPAA Formal Black Tie Dinner at Governors Lodge ✓✓ Norfolk Island shopping bag, handy hints & shopping discounts
DON’T MISS OUT – BOOK NOW! To manage each member’s bookings the Norfolk Island Travel Centre has appointed Christan Davies as the dedicated travel consultant for the Conference. Contact Christan at christan@travelcentre.nf or on free call 1800 1400 66. When you make your first contact with Christan she will send you an Information Pack with everything you need to know to make your booking. There are some options for you to eg: upgrade your airfare to include a meal on the flight, take out insurance and also book in to do some tours during the week. A description of optional tours is described further in this article.
18
True Blue April 2022
GOVERNORS LODGE RESORT HOTEL NORFOLK ISLAND The Governor’s Lodge Resort offers individual one bedroom fully serviced cottages set in wonderful sub-tropical gardens incorporating the famous majestic giant Norfolk Pines. Facilities include licensed restaurants, swimming pool, direct ISD phones with kitchenette. All day dining options available at the Boatshed (open 07:00 – 09:00 for breakfast, 11:00am – 5:00pm for lunch) Lounge Bar (daily 09:00 – 5:00pm) and the Baileys Restaurant for dinner (Tue – Sat 5:30pm – 8:00pm)
19
True Blue April 2022
A week of fun and relaxation on stunning Norfolk Island Included in your package cost is a Half day Tour and Island Fish Fry. HALF DAY ISLAND TOUR An orientation tour with a friendly local guide which will introduce you to Norfolk’s history, culture and geology, while pointing out key sites to revisit and some handy local tips for your stay.
There is also a choice of optional tours and experiences you can enjoy as part of the UNOPAA conference: GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR
FARM AND INDUSTRY TOUR
Our two Norfolk Islander’s, Donald and George, will share their knowledge of Norfolk’s unique marine life. Once you’ve ‘walked the plank’ with these ‘mutineer descendants’ it takes 60 seconds (yes one minute!) to be at the reef. View beautiful coral gardens and tropical fish inside the calm crystal waters of Norfolk’s lagoon. Donald & Les provide full interesting commentary on this environmental tour. With these two, be prepared for a touch of Norfolk humour!
Whilst tourism is Norfolk’s largest industry, it is by no means its only one. On this tour, we take you on a selection of the many other enterprises that sustain our community. These might include: raising meat producing sheep, market gardening, pig farming, manufacturing soft drinks and liqueurs, gardening or exporting Kentia seedlings
COLLEEN MCCULLOUGH HOME TOUR Colleen McCullough, world-renowned author of 24 books called Norfolk Island home for almost 36 years. She and husband, Norfolk Islander, Ric Robinson, created a luxurious hideaway and maintained their privacy to ensure that Colleen had the perfect environment for her writing. Some of her most powerful titles were created in this much-loved sanctuary.
CONVICT SETTLEMENT TOUR Join an ‘In Depth’ tour of the historic Georgian settlement of Kingston. Walk through the cemetery & hear the history of interesting convict & colonial headstones, hear stories of the houses along Quality Row. Walk through the ruins of the New Gaol, see the Pier Store, Boat Shed and the Crank Mill.
ISLAND ADVENTURES 4WD TOUR Climb aboard our 18-seater 4WD bus for a Pioneering Adventure off the beaten tracks. A state-of-the-art Norfolk Island experience. Enjoy air-conditioned comfort and safety as we share authentic insights of Norfolk’s unexplored valleys, ridges, coastlines and private properties.
20
PITCAIRN SETTLERS VILLAGE TOUR Learn about the colourful history of Norfolk’s most recent settlement – the Pitcairn descendants. Experience the history & culture of the Pitcairn Settlers. View the magnificent homestead gardens, including many traditional crops. Ride in Norfolk’s first tour couch, a model A Ford. View a film, visit a blacksmith’s forge, the original homestead, a WWII Army hut & Museum of Memorabilia (incl. light refreshments).
GREENFINGER TOUR A tour featuring some of the Islands most lovely gardens. Through the morning we visit a nursery owned and operated by a Norfolk Islander, and view the hydroponics. We also visit a gorgeous private garden and Norfolk Island’s only maze. Morning tea at a scenic spot included.
BREAKFAST BUSHWALK Take you choice of a stroll through Palm Glen Reserve or for the more energetic a leisurely 3.5km walk through scenic Mt Bates to Captain Cook Monument. At the end of the walks we meet on the clifftop for a delicious barbecue Breakfast. Tour is not recommended for anyone with medical conditions walking shoes and water are recommended.
True Blue April 2022
What is Norfolk Island famous for? There is no doubt that Norfolk Island is a unique destination and aside from its incredible beauty, there are a number of interesting reasons Norfolk Island stands out from the rest. 1. Descendants of the Bounty Mutineers More descendants of Fletcher Christian than anywhere else in the world
6. Emily Bay The very same one named in Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Top 10 Beaches
Norfolk is now home to the famed descendants of the Polynesian women and Bounty Mutineers, originally living on Pitcairn Island. After outgrowing Pitcairn, the community, made up of 8 family groupings, relocated to Norfolk in 1856. Owner of NITC, Rebecca Christan, is a seventhgeneration descendant of Fletcher Christan.
Summer + Norfolk Island = Emily Bay. This stunning beach has it all. Emily Bay is a unique gem. This is the perfect place for families to safely and easily enjoy a Norfolk Island summer holiday.
2. Convict Colony The resting place of Australia’s most important shipwreck, flagship of the First Fleet HMS Sirius
Check out the The Faasfain (fast find) section of the Norfolk Island phone book. Islanders are so much more familiar with each other’s nicknames rather than their long forgotten birth names. Updated every three years.
Norfolk was home to two penal settlements. During the first, the Island became home to many ‘First Fleeters’. Then, after 1825, the poor souls who were to live, enduring ‘punishment just short of death’, simply tried to survive life here.
3. Norfolk Island Pine Home to endemic Araucaria heterophylla, or ‑as you may know it, the Norfolk Pine The Norfolk Island Pine was discovered by Capt. James Cook in 1774, Cook noted the pines would be perfect for masts and yards for sailing ships but it was later found that they were not resilient enough. Today, the Norfolk Pine can be found around the world, particularly coastal areas, due to its ability to grow in sand and high tolerance for salt and wind – making it the perfect seaside tree.
4. Norfolk Cows Moooove over because the free-range cows on Norfolk Island have right of way These friendly four-legged grass-mowers have been an integral part of Norfolk’s culture, in fact, they were the star of the Museum’s Longest Paddock Exhibition in 2020!
5. Colleen McCullough Colleen McCullough and her convict ancestor “Morgan’s Run” both lived here
7. Unique Phone Book Where you can search by nick-name in the local phone book
8. Thanksgiving The only place in the South Pacific that celebrates Thanksgiving Day Norfolk Island is one of the few places outside of America to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, an influence left from the American whaling ships who would frequently visit during the late 1800’s. The Norfolk Island Food Festival is always timed to coincide with Thanksgiving Day.
9. Fishing Or as the locals call it ‘catching’ With a 50sq Norfolk Marine Park seclusion zone around the Island, no commercial fishing allowed and deep water right at our doorstep, Norfolk Island is an undiscovered game fishing paradise.
10. Norfolk Island Golf Course As seen in Golf Australia’s 60 best 9-hole courses in Australia Play golf on Norfolk Island and you’ll find one of the most friendly and social clubs with a course bordered by the South Pacific Ocean and set within historic Kingston, a World Heritage listed site. Often described as one of the most beautiful locations for a course, it’s not hard to understand why it’s such an attraction.
The world-renowned author Colleen McCullough, made Norfolk home in 1979 and stayed until her passing in 2015. Here you can book an exclusive guided tour to the author’s magnificent property.
21
True Blue April 2022
South Australia Police Memorial in Adelaide In 2021, the South Australia Police RSL Sub-Branch received approval and funding to construct a new memorial in Adelaide to commemorate SA police officers and other SA police staff who have died whilst serving in wars, conflicts and peace-keeping operations. The South Australia Police Memorial was unveiled by the SA Police Commissioner, Grant Stevens APM, on Sunday, 18 April 2021, at the Pathway of Honour, Torrens Parade Ground in Adelaide. One SA police officer, Sergeant Llewelyn John Thomas, died in a motor vehicle accident when serving as a United Nations peacekeeper with the 6th Australian Police Contingent in Cyprus on 26 July 1969. UNOPAA applauds and congratulates the SA Police RSL Sub-Branch on this initiative. It is a fitting tribute to all SA police officers and police staff who have died on overseas service. Our thanks to John Minagall, the Secretary of the SA Police RSL Sub-Branch for providing the material for this article.
22
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions New Special Representative of the Secretary-General arrives in Cyprus
p 24
SRSG Stewart meets both leaders
p 25
Women’s walk and talk marks UN Day celebrations in Cyprus
p 25
Peacekeepers assist Pope Francis’ visit to Cyprus
p 26
Solomon Islands Commander thanks the troops in virtual muster
p 27
RAPPP Foundational Enabling Services Project Supports RSIPF Infrastructure
p 28
Chinese Police begin work in the Solomon Islands
p 29
China set to sign first security deal in the Pacific on Australia’s doorstep
p 30
Commissioner Mangau thanked PNG contingent for a great support to RSIPF during last year’s civil unrest
p 32
MoU sign between MPNSCS, RSIPF and AFP
p 33
What’s happening in Timor Leste?
p 34
23
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
New Special Representative of the Secretary-General arrives in Cyprus The new Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Mr. Colin Stewart, has arrived in Cyprus to formally assume his duties. Mr. Stewart will also be the Deputy Special Adviser to the SecretaryGeneral (DSASG) on Cyprus. SRSG/ DSASG Stewart succeeds Elizabeth Spehar, who completed her assignment on 30 November 2021. Speaking upon his arrival, SRSG/ DSASG Stewart said: “I am honoured to be here in Cyprus as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Deputy Special Adviser. I am keenly aware of the importance of UNFICYP’s mandate for the lives of all Cypriots and I look forward to working with all of you and our partners in Cyprus. I would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to my predecessor, Elizabeth Spehar,
forge strong working relationships with all stakeholders and learn from them so that, together, we can hopefully bring a lasting peace to the island.” SRSG/DSASG Stewart will meet with the two leaders, other senior officials, civil society representatives, members of the diplomatic community, and the United Nations family across the island over the coming weeks.
for her stalwart leadership of UNFICYP and the Good Offices mission. I look forward to continuing the work of the United Nations in Cyprus and hope to
Mr. Stewart, who until recently served as Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) (20172021), brings to the role a long record of leadership, diplomacy and effective management, with over 28 years of experience in peace and security and international affairs. Prior to MINURSO, he served as Deputy Head and Chief of Staff of the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) in Addis Ababa, and held appointments in several United Nations field missions, including as Acting Chief of Staff and Chief of Political Affairs at the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) (2007-2009). He was a Canadian diplomat from 1990 to 1997. Mr. Stewart is a graduate of Laval University in Canada. He is fluent in English and French.
24
Around the Missions
True Blue April 2022
SRSG Stewart meets both leaders On 14 December, newly arrived top United Nations official in Cyprus, Colin Stewart, welcomed Ersin Tatar and Nicos Anastasiades together with representatives of the diplomatic community to Ledra Palace in the UN buffer zone. This was their first informal meeting together since Stewart’s arrival on the island.
Women’s walk and talk marks UN Day celebrations in Cyprus To mark the 76th anniversary of the United Nations, the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus facilitated a women’s walk and talk on 23 October with representatives from both the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities. The previous Special Representative of the SecretaryGeneral in Cyprus, Elizabeth Spehar, together with the Mission’s Force Commander, Ingrid Gjerde, UNPOL Senior Police Advisor, Satu Koivu, and representatives from the international community also joined the celebrations. Around 50 women from all walks of life enjoyed a morning walk along the Pedeios river and had fruitful discussions on the women, peace, and security agenda at Ledra Palace Hotel. The women’s
walk and talk happen since 2015 and are organized by CVAR and the Turkish Cypriot University Women’s Association, in cooperation with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and UNFICYP.
Source: Blue Beret ‘Winter Edition’ Editor’s note: This is certainly different from the ‘Women’s March Home’ gatherings that were held in the 80’s & 90’s
25
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
Peacekeepers assist Pope Francis’ visit to Cyprus From 2 to 4 December, UNFICYP peacekeepers were on standby to assist during Pope Francis’ visit to Cyprus. Military and United Nations Police worked together with Cyprus Police during his stay at the United Nations buffer zone. On December 4, UNFICYP peacekeepers met Pope Francis in Nicosia. UNPOL and military worked together with CyPol during his stay at the United Nations buffer zone. UNPOL’ Senior Police Advisor, Assistant Police Commissioner Satu Koivu and the Mission’s Force Commander, Major General Ingrid Gjerde were also present.
26
Around the Missions
True Blue April 2022
Solomon Islands Commander thanks the troops in virtual muster AFP members have been working around the clock since the November unrest in the Solomon Islands, and continue to face challenges, including the January 2022 Solomon Islands Government (SIG) announcement of a lockdown due to community transmission of COVID19 in the capital, Honiara. The number of positive cases quickly increased and continues to rise in Honiara and now into the provinces. On Friday 18 February AFP Commander Paul Osborne hosted a virtual muster to rally the troops and thank them for their efforts. He commended them on their agility in stepping up and responding, ensuring the AFP maintains its position as the primary partner of choice with the SIG and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) during times of global uncertainty. The AFP mission is made up of members from the RSIPF-AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP) and Operation Skyray (Surge). Members were briefed on the outcomes of AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw’s recent visit, highlighting the importance of the AFP’s role in regional stability and security. The Commissioner was appreciative of members’ commitment and proud of the AFP’s ability to remain active and responsive to the RSIPF as they faced the challenges and uncertainty of policing in a COVID19 environment. Commander Osborne and Acting Commander Clinton Smith discussed the challenges of operating in a developing country with COVID19, acknowledging that lockdowns and restricted movements create additional challenges not faced in Australia.
He reminded members to focus on their safety while delivering the AFP’s mandate under the security treaty. Operational members continue to deliver the security overlay and assist with investigations following the riots. They are supported by a behindthe-scenes corporate team and Solomon Islands locally engaged civilians, who the Commander thanked for coordinating basic food supplies direct from local farms, despatching mail deliveries, issuing personal protection equipment, and supporting members in quarantine to facilitate Mission changeovers. Additionally, they have assisted in procuring and delivering care packages to the AFP’s RSIPF
partners in the provinces, and establishing a site for the RSIPF to provide isolation facilities to enable its workforce to continue delivery of services to the community. They said that this support is essential to ensuring the Mission continues to function and were very grateful for everyone’s contribution. The muster also included an overview of the proposed reshaping of the RAPPP, which will see the establishment of an RSIPF Armed Mobile Protection Unit, RSIPF and AFP Exchange Officer Program, rebuilding of the Police stations damaged in the unrest, the expansion of the RSIPF National Response Department, and the Stage 2 rearmament. Source: AFP News
27
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
RAPPP Foundational Enabling Services Project Supports RSIPF Infrastructure The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF and AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP) commenced in July 2021. The RAPPP supports RSIPF in six (6) core delivery pillars, one of these focuses on improving operational effectiveness by strengthening foundational enabling services, including fit for purpose Police infrastructure to improve accessibility to policing services for the communities in Solomon Islands (SI). On Friday 11 March 2022, Commander Paul Osborne handed over to RSIPF the keys to four (4) completed RAPPP infrastructure projects, a total investment of SBD$9.72m as part of the AFP’s Police –to–Police Partnership with RSIPF. Hon. Anthony Kamutulaka Veke Minister Police, National Security and Correctional Services and Commissioner Mostyn Mangau thanked the AFP for completing the construction projects at Aola, Avu Avu, and Wagina which included new stations and the new police barracks at Tetere. Minister Veke congratulated the RAPPP and noted “this is a milestone for the program, the new stations are a good design and will allow the Police to preserve peace and security in the community. He further thanked AFP and RAPPP for their ongoing support to RSIPF and Solomon Islands.” The construction of the new sites involved RSIPF Provincial Police Commanders (PPC)’s, the Ministry of Infrastructure, RSPIF Property & Infrastructure Division (PID) and AFP Advisors. Commander Paul Osborne highlighted that
28
In a COVID safe setting, Commander Osborne, Minister Veke and Commissioner Mangau discussed the RAPPP funded Infrastructure projects at the Virtual Gifting Handover of Aola, Avu Avu, and Wagina Police stations and Tetere Police Barracks
“This project shows how working together we can deliver sustainable solutions to support RSIPF provide policing services to the Solomon Islands community” All sites were designed by the Solomon Islands Government Ministry of Infrastructure focusing on sustainable longterm construction to withstand the harsh tropical environment. Local knowledge and experience was critical to the successful completion of the sites. The project supported the local economy and created jobs for Solomon Islanders in the communities by engaging all local SI companies to complete the projects. The community focused designs include large welcoming walkways for community engagement and are solid construction using reinforced concrete filled bricks and color-bond iron roofs, the
addition of solar power and batteries provides power to the stations for up to 3 days without sunlight and the sites provide accessible fresh water supply for members. These buildings form part of a larger RAPPP infrastructure plan where the AFP is assisting RSIPF address gaps in foundational enabling services to enhance the RSIPF operational response to the community. The AFP have committed AUD$106m over the next four (4) years under RAPPP including technical assistance and capability developments across RSIPF with future infrastructure improvements proposed for RSIPF sites at Henderson, Central City Station, Gizo, Auki, Naha, Variana and Kukum. Source: RSIP Webpage 11 March 2022
Around the Missions
True Blue April 2022
Chinese police begin work in the Solomon Islands A team of Chinese police officers has begun work in Solomon Islands, two months after the government accepted Beijing’s offer to help restore law and order following recent anti-government demonstrations. The unit, known as the People’s Republic of China Public Security Bureau’s Solomon Islands Policing Advisory Group, consists of about nine officers who will train local police to improve their “anti-riot capabilities”. Late last year Beijing announced the Solomon Islands government had agreed to accept its offer of anti-riot equipment and training, in a move that appeared to catch Australian officials off guard and cause some anxiety in Canberra. In November Australia was among the first countries to provide assistance to the troubled government of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, dispatching 73 Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers and 43 defence force personnel to the Solomons’ capital Honiara. The Australian deployment followed days of unrest which saw buildings, including a police station, set on fire as protesters vented their fury over government services and corruption, as well as moves to align the Solomon Islands more closely with China. China’s embassy in Solomon Islands says it will work with its new advisory group to “continuously strengthen communication with the police, steadily promote the training and assistance to the police under the epidemic situation and further deepen bilateral police cooperation”.
The Chinese police advisory group meets with Chinese Ambassador Li Ming in Solomon Islands shortly after their arrival in the country.
In a statement, it added the unit would also “cooperate with the embassy to conduct visits, and safety training for overseas Chinese and Chinese-funded enterprises, so as to effectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and overseas Chinese”. The head of the public security bureau team is Zhang Guangbao, who is currently the peacekeeping police captain in Beijing’s Ministry of Public Security, and who previously served in Liberia. This week members of the Chinese police advisory group were released from a lengthy mandatory quarantine stay in Solomon Islands and met Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Commissioner Mostyn Mangau. Diplomatic figures, who spoke to the ABC on the condition of anonymity, said Australian officials
were closely watching the Chinese police deployment, with some officials expressing concern it could even pave the way for military cooperation. Earlier this month during a visit to Fiji, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced plans to open an American embassy in the Solomon Islands. The US closed its embassy in Honiara in 1993. It is now represented by a consulate there, with an embassy in the Papua New Guinea capital of Port Moresby. In 2019 Mr Sogavare’s government decided to formally cease diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, a move that angered many opposition supporters in Solomon Islands. Source: ABC via Solomon Star Thursday, 24 February 2022
29
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
A Chinese frigate and a guided missile destroyer on manoeuvres in the South China Sea in 2020.
China set to sign first security deal in the Pacific on Australia’s doorstep China and Solomon Islands are set to sign off on a security deal that will allow Chinese warships to be based in the Pacific and shift the balance of power in Australia’s region. The agreement will give China the power to use its military to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects in Solomon Islands and give Beijing a base for its navy less than 2000 kilometres off Australia’s coast. The base would be the first time Australia has had a strategic adversary within striking distance of its coastline since World War II. “China may, according to its own needs and with the consent of Solomon Islands, make ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in and have stopover and transition in the Solomon Islands,” the draft framework agreement states. “Solomon Islands may, according to its own needs, request China to send police, armed police, military personnel and other law enforcement and armed forces to Solomon Islands to assist in maintaining social order, protecting people’s lives and property.” The draft, released online on Thursday afternoon and verified by the Australian government, is a sharp
30
escalation in the relationship between the two governments after protests, riots and looting gripped the island nation in November. The conflict was driven by COVID-19 measures, ethnic tensions and regional tensions between Honiara, the capital, and its most populous province, Malaita, but it was also linked to allegations of corruption involving Chinese infrastructure deals and Honiara’s decision to switch its diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The draft states Beijing and Honiara will enter into the agreement with the view of “strengthening security co-operation, mutual respect for sovereignty, equality and mutual benefit”. Anna Powles, a senior lecturer in international security and a Pacific diplomacy expert at New Zealand’s Massey University, said the draft agreement was “very significant”. The security agreement is one of the first of its kind in the Pacific; its scope is broad and suitably vague and
Around the Missions
its provisions range from maintaining public order through to protecting Chinese citizens and assets, and providing humanitarian and disaster relief,” Powles said. “The agreement also contains several ambiguous and potentially ambitious provisions with geopolitical implications including that China is seeking logistical supply capabilities and material assets located in Solomon Islands to support ship visits.” Powles said the agreement suggests logistics and supplies will be available in the Solomons to support the People’s Liberation Army Navy. “If it comes under force, the agreement also contains references to China’s ‘own needs’, which could refer to China’s strategic interests; China’s pursuit of its strategic interests in the Pacific is of direct concern to Australia and its allies and partners.” Australia’s ambassador to the Solomon Islands, Lachlan Strahan, met with Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on Thursday before the agreement with China became public. Strahan told the Solomon Islands leader that Australia would extend the Solomons International Assistance Force until next year, build a new radio network and provide $21 million in budget assistance. Australia sent troops and federal police to the Solomon Islands after a request for assistance from Sogavare in November. The request was made under the International Assistance Force treaty, but that deal could now be put under a cloud if the deal with Beijing goes through. Solomons opposition MP Peter Kenilorea told the ABC he was deeply concerned by the development. “This has implications for the Pacific islands region, including Australia,” he said.
True Blue April 2022
A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs said Australia “would be concerned by any actions that destabilise the security of our region”. “Pacific Island nations have the right to make sovereign decisions. Australia’s co-operation with our Pacific family is focused on the economic prosperity, security and development of our region,” the spokesperson said. “This co-operation is always transparent and open, and aligned to the priorities and interests of our Pacific partners.” China has been courting Pacific Island nations to establish a military presence in the area, but the Solomons deal would be the first time the Chinese navy has an operational presence in the region beyond the South China Sea. In 2018 China approached Vanuatu about building a permanent military presence in the South Pacific, triggering urgent discussions at the highest levels in Canberra and Washington. Thursday afternoon’s draft document, first released by a Solomons’ opposition adviser, sent officials in Canberra scrambling to verify its authenticity. The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age confirmed on Thursday evening that the Australian government believes the document is genuine, deepening concerns in Canberra and Washington about China’s intentions in the Pacific. The base will increase the risk of confrontation between the US and China as Beijing ramps up its competition with Washington, threatens Taiwan’s airspace and refuses to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Source: Sydney Morning Herald – 24 March 2022
31
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
Commissioner Mangau thanked PNG contingent for a great support to RSIPF during last year’s civil unrest Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Mr Mostyn Mangau has thanked the Papua New Guinea (PNG) contingent for the great support to RSIPF during a small farewell ceremony at Rove Police Headquarters on 1 March 2022. Mr Mangau says, “Your team’s contribution and support to RSIPF is highly commended. Especially during the unrest on November 2021.” Chief of Staff (CoS) for the Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF) Superintendent Sam Elmaghraby shared the same sentiment by acknowledging the PNG Contingent commander for the great support rendered to RSIPF by his team.” Superintendent Elmaghraby says, “Whilst deployed under your own bi-lateral security treaty, the cooperation and support to the SIAF through coordination of patrols and resources, truly demonstrated the valued partnership of the Pacific Policing Family. On behalf of DC-SIAF Paul Osborne, I sincerely thank you and your contingent for their efforts.” During the farewell ceremony the PNG Contingent Commander, Assistant Commissioner (AC) Mr Perou N’Drannou says, “…on behalf of the PNG contingent, I wish to thank you for the leadership during the PNG contingent deployments in this mission.” AC N’Drannou says, “This thank you is also extended to all members of the Pacific forces that makes up
32
the SIAF and especially all members of the RSIPF that PNG contingent had worked alongside daily.” Commissioner Mangau presented the PNG contingent commander with the International Law Enforcement Cooperation Medal and an RSIPF plaque as a show of appreciation for the service. CoS-SIAF presented an AFP plaque of cooperation and appreciation. Source: RSIP Website 2 March 2022
Around the Missions
True Blue April 2022
MoU sign between MPNSCS, RSIPF and AFP A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Ministry of Police, National Security Correctional Services (MPNSCS) and the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at Rove Police Headquarters today 24 February 2022. Today marks another significant day for the twenty one (21) year friendship with the signing of a new MoU between the AFP, the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) and RSIPF in relation to the implementation of the RAPPP 2021-2025. In August 2021, Solomon Islands Government Cabinet endorsed the Australian Federal Police (AFP) AUD $106m Program design for the “Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) Policing Partnership Program 2021-2025” (RAPPP). Since 2003, the AFP and the RSIPF have worked in partnership to bring peace and security to the people of Solomon Islands and the region. In a COVID safe setting the AFP Commander Osborne (currently Acting RSIPF Deputy Commissioner), Minister Veke for the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services and RSIPF Commissioner Mangau attended the signing of the MOU for the RAPPP 2021-2025. Commissioner Mangau says, “As RSIPF prepares for the major operations in 2023 this MoU will see
a new and exciting period of cooperation between the AFP and RSIPF as we strengthen our operational partnership building upon past years of investment.” RAPPP Commander Paul Osborne highlighted the RAPPP is an investment of AUD$106m from the AFP over the next four (4) years including technical assistance and capability developments across RSIPF. Projects will support Investigations, Foundational Enabling Services, Expansion of the National Response Department, Frontline, General Duties, Forensics, Health and Wellbeing, and Leadership Development. The RAPPP will assist the RSIPF prepare for the 2023 Operations Pacific Games and National General Elections in conjunction to building a stronger operational partnership between the AFP and RSIPF to combat crime in the region. Minister for MPNSCS Hon. Anthony K Veke noted, “The AFP is our number one partner of choice for security and thanked AFP for its long friendship with the RSIPF and the people of Solomon Islands.” Source: RSIP Website – 21 February 2022
33
True Blue April 2022
Around the Missions
What’s happening in Timor Leste? AUSTRALIA’S NEW AMBASSADOR TO TIMOR LESTE Congratulations to our new Ambassador Bill Costello who today (1st March 2022) had the honour to present his Letter of Credentials to Timor-Leste’s President, His Excellency Francisco ‘Lu-Olo’ Guterres. Mr Costello is Australia’s 8th Ambassador to Timor-Leste.
PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS TIMOR LESTE 19 MARCH Here at Fatumeta in Dili, voters are lined up, eager to cast their votes. Our accredited election monitors are also out and about, alongside colleagues from other embassies, national and international election monitors, scrutineers and the EU Elections Observer team.
A career diplomat, Ambassador Costello has previously served in Washington, Port Moresby, Manila, and Phnom Penh, as well as in Canberra. In a warm exchange after the ceremony, Ambassador Costello assured H.E. the President that Australia remained committed to walking alongside TimorLeste and would be a steadfast partner into the future. “Our two countries are neighbours, our people-to-people links are strong, and cooperation between our governments is broad and deep.” The President and the Ambassador agreed on the importance of Australian support in combatting the challenges of COVID-19, including through high vaccination rates, ongoing investment in scholarships, growing opportunities for Timorese workers in Australia and the development of key infrastructure, such as the South Submarine Telecommunications Cable, refurbishment of the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, and upgraded infrastructure at Port Hera to support the two Guardian class patrol boats being gifted by Australia, expected in 2023.
34
Voting underway in Baucau in Timor-Leste’s Presidential election. Officials well organised and the elderly and people with disabilities brought forward to vote first. Democracy in action.
Around the Missions
True Blue April 2022
17 MARCH Australia’s Ambassador was delighted to meet the Director-General of MEDIA STAE today to formally handover 12,400 masks and 8,000 pairs of gloves for use in the presidential election. Australia is proud to be supporting STAE’s COVID-19 prevention measures with the provision of this PPE, acknowledging this will be Timor-Leste’s first election during the pandemic. STAE officials will be wearing their masks on election day, so remember to wear yours too! 14 MARCH On 14 of March 2022, PARTISIPA team in Ermera Municipality worked together with Ministry of Health (Palácio das Cinzas) through Ermera Municipality Health office to organise a COVID-19 vaccination event in Letefoho Suco Lauana. Over 1,414 people were vaccinated! Attendees received COVID-19 vaccinations of AstraZeneca Primary dose (First and Second doses), Pfizer vaccine for students (12 to less 18 years old) or a Pfizer vaccine booster dose for the adult population (above 18 years old).
The community came from far and wide including from remote mountain areas for their vaccination and were entertained by Marvi and Cidalia who sang and danced with the community while they waited their turn to be vaccinated. Ms Fiona, Team leader of Partisipa also received her COVID-19 booster shot at the event. It was really great fun! The event was attended by HE Minister of Health Dr Odete, DG Marcelo, DG Odete and team, DFAT, World Health Organization Timor-Leste, Unicef TimorLeste, Partnership for Human Development Australia Timor-Leste (PHD). The event would have not been possible without the fantastic support from the Priest Helio, Letefoho Parish, President of authority of Ermera, Letefoho PNTL Commander, all Suco Chiefs and Aldeia Chief and whole community from Letefoho area. We are very proud to support these events and help the government work towards its target of vaccinating 90% of the population, which we hope will help keep people and their families safe against COVID-19.
VETERAN’S DAY 3 March 2022 - Australia joins Timor-Leste today to commemorate Veteran’s Day. Many Australians share a history and enduring friendships with Timorese veterans, forged in Timor-Leste’s long struggle for independence. These friendships are reflected in the strong partnership between the F-FDTL and the Australian Defence Force that we see today. We pay our respects to all the men and women who have served their country in times of peace and in times of war.
“HELLO PRIME MINISTER!” Fantastic to see Australian Prime Minister the Hon Scott Morrison MP and Timor-Leste Prime Minister H.E. Taur Matan Ruak meet virtually this morning, particularly given this year marks the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries. The two Prime Ministers shared a warm discussion and reinforced the close ties between Australia and Timor-Leste, including on our responses to and recovery from COVID-19, labour mobility, economic cooperation, and defence and security—including illegal fishing. Read on to learn about the new AUD30 million phase of our health sector partnership, Australia’s support for strengthening critical infrastructure, including the redevelopment of the Dili airport, shared plans to deepen connectivity and more!
35
True Blue April 2022
Why does Australia drive on the left-hand side? Left-hand traffic may be standard here in Australia, but it’s a trend that is in the vast minority around the world. How did this happen? Roughly a quarter of all countries around the world drive on the left, with the rest adopting right-hand traffic. The origin of this law is as complicated as it is vague, and there are many legends that have persisted in an attempt to explain its origins. Some classics include: • Most people are right-handed, that’s why most of the world drives on the right • When horses are being led, the tradition is to lead them with your right hand, so people would walk on the right-hand side of the road to keep their horses separate • Swords are usually held in the right hand, so people needed to walk on the left-hand side for selfdefense All of these are amusing anecdotes, with some small hints of truth buried in them, but they don’t tell the whole story. Left or right – which is right?
36
AUSTRALIA: LEFT-HAND TRAFFIC
We drive on the left for one reason and one reason only: Britain told us to. No, really. As a British colony up until we became a federation in 1901, Australia readily adopted left-hand traffic, no doubt because it made both cultural and economic sense to do so. So why then did Britain adopt lefthand traffic?
True Blue April 2022
BRITAIN: LEFT-HAND TRAFFIC
JAPAN: LEFT-HAND TRAFFIC
In 1669, London had a bit of a traffic problem. Sitting on the River Thames, lots of crucial trade passed back and forth over London Bridge, which meant they needed a way to regulate this traffic before things got too out of hand. So, a new job was created for someone to sit on the bridge and get traffic from one direction to stick to one side of the bridge, and from the other direction to stick to the other.
Though Japan was never a British colony, the reason they drive on the left nowadays is partially due to British influence. Before cars were invented, people in Japan preferred to walk on the left for self-defense reasons. Apparently, it’s easier to defend yourself with a sword if it’s holstered on the arm closest to your opponent.
As you can imagine, it got a bit confusing, so London lawmakers wrote up a law which said that all carts coming from London needed to travel on the east side of the bridge, and traffic coming into London needed to travel on the west-side. And so, the first-ever written law outlining left-hand traffic was created.
But this was never really until 1872 when Japan’s first railway was built with help from - you guessed it Britain. Because Britain had firmly adopted left-hand traffic by then, they designed the rail network with lefthand traffic in mind. From there it was much easier for Japanese society to themselves drive on the left when cars became commonplace.
CHANGING LANES While there are very few countries around the world that border another who drive on the opposite side of the road, there are a few. For example, Thailand is one of the countries that drive on the left, but neighbouring Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar all drive on the right. If driving from Cambodia to Thailand, you will discover an intricate traffic light system at the border which will move you to the other side of the road.
USA: RIGHT-HAND TRAFFIC Before rail, the United States relied a lot on large wagons pulled by teams of horses to transport goods across great distances, similar to Australia’s nowfamous road trains. These wagons had nowhere for the driver to sit, so instead, they sat on the left-most horse so they could hold their whip in their right hand while they drove. Because of where they sat, they preferred to drive on the right so they could better see when other wagons overtook them. That preferred way of driving stuck, which is why the US now drives on the right.
More eloquent solutions have been made, including the stunning Lotus Bridge connecting Macau – a former Portuguese colony that adopted left-hand driving - to the right-hand driving Hengqin Island, part of China. There have also been some countries that have, in modern times switched from left to right-hand drive but have resulted in some nightmares for the transport network. Unless there is a good reason, it’s much easier to stick to what you have. Source: RACV article by Dimitri Halkidis February 22, 2022
37
True Blue April 2022
Oh – how things have changed. Imagine this happening in this day and age!
Tips to look after your husband Extract from 1950 Home Economics Book. HAVE DINNER READY
PREPARE THE CHILDREN
MAKE HIM COMFORTABLE
Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal on time. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospects of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.
Take a few minutes to wash the children’s hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary, change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.
Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax - unwind.
PREPARE YOURSELF
At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of washer, drier, dishwasher or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad to see him.
Take 15 minutes to rest so you will be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh looking. He has just been with a lot of work weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.
CLEAR AWAY THE CLUTTER Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives, gathering up school books, toys paper etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too.
38
MINIMISE THE NOISE
SOME DON’TS Don’t greet him with problems or complaints. Don’t complain if he’s late for dinner. Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone though that day.
LISTEN TO HIM You may have a range of things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.
MAKE THE EVENING HIS Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to come home and relax.
THE GOAL Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.
True Blue April 2022
Vale On behalf of the UNOPAA National Executive, our National Committee, State Branches and all members of UNOPAA, we would like to acknowledge the service of the following, particularly to overseas peacekeeping, and to express our sympathy to family, contingent colleagues and friends. It is with regret that we advise of the passing of:
GEZA STEPHEN SZOLNOKI Deployed to the Solomon Islands as part of RAMSI and Thailand as part of the Boxing Day Tsunami response, passed away on 11 November 2021, aged 56 years. Funeral Service Details - At the request of the family no service was held.
JAMES (JIM) ILLFIELD A New South Wales police member of the 11th Contingent to Cyprus (1974-75). Jim passed away suddenly on 12 December 2021. He was 73 years old. His funeral was held on Thursday, 23 December 2021 at the Woronora Memorial Park, 121 Sutherland Street NSW 2232
TERENCE KEVIN PAFF
ALLAN (BIGGLES) WOOLCOCK A New South Wales Police member of the 10th Contingent to Cyprus (1973-74). Allan passed away peacefully at the North Shore Hospital in Sydney on 19 February 2022. He was 77 years of age. Allan’s funeral was held on Friday, 25 February 2022 at 10.30am at St Peter’s Uniting Church, Mamora Street, Freshwater (north Sydney) NSW
WILLIAM JAMES EMMITT An AFP member who was a member of RAMSI (Solomon Islands) in 2007. William passed away on 4 February 2022, aged 59 years. William’s funeral was held on Wednesday, 2 March 2022 at the Cairns Surf Life Saving Club – 135 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove QLD 4879
CRAIG (STUMPY) SHEEHAN
An AFP member who served on Christmas Island and deployed to Cyprus as a member of the 28, 29 and 30th Australian United Nations Police Contingents.
An AFP member who served in East Timor in 2003.
Terry passed away on 28 December 2021, aged 73 years.
Craig passed away on Tuesday, 29 March 2022.
The funeral service for Terry was held on 6 January 2022.
Many of our members would remember Craig as an instructor on their pre-deployment courses with IDG.
RONALD JOHN (JOHN) BURR A Tasmania Police member of the 4th Contingent to Cyprus (1967-68). John passed away suddenly on Friday 14 January 2022. He was 81 years of age. His funeral was held at Millingtons Funeral Home, 25 McIntyre Street, Mornington Tasmania on Thursday, 20 January 2022, at 1.00pm.
IAN ATHOL HENRY LAURIE A member of the 19th Australian United Nations Police Contingent to Cyprus, passed away on 19 January 2022, aged 82 years.
At the time of going to print, details of Craig’s funeral have not been released.
BARRY DE DEAR A South Australia Police member of the 5th Contingent to Cyprus (1968-69). Barry passed away peacefully on Wednesday (30 March 2022). He was 77 years of age. At the time, he was living in a care facility in Christie Downs SA, but recently moved to a nursing home due to mobility problems with his legs. At the time of publication Barry’s funeral details are unknown.
Ian’s funeral was held on Thursday, 3 February 2022 at Stephen Baggs Funeral Directors, 613 Main Street, Bairnsdale VIC 3875
39
UNITED NATIONS & OVERSEAS POLICING ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA (UNOPAA)
Membership Renewal or Application Your annual UNOPAA membership subscription is $20.00. Please complete this form and return with your subscription to address at the bottom of this form.
Surname or Family Name Given Name/s Preferred Name Private Address (No. & Street) (Suburb or Town) (State)
(Postcode)
Spouse/Partner’s Name Phone (Home or Mobile)
(Business)
Email Address Current or former Police Organisation (please tick)
AFP
VIC
SA
TAS
NSW
QLD
WA
NT
Currently serving
Service Status
Other
(specify below)
Former or retired
Associate
United Nations or Overseas Policing Service UN Mission/Country of Policing Service (eg: UNFICYP-Cyprus, UNMIT/TLPDP-Timor Leste, RAMSI, Afghanistan, etc)
Year/s
Contingent Number/s
Military Service (eg: RAAF, Corps, Regiment, Wing, Ship etc)
Membership Fees
for Serving Members, Former or Retired,
$20.00 or Associate Cheque
Payment Type
Do you require a receipt?
Year/s
Yes
No
Money Order
Signature
EFTPOS – Account Name: UNOPAA BSB: 815-000 Account No: 229831
Direct debit (form attached)
All payments MUST be made in Australian Dollars. Make cheques payable to UNOPAA. Do NOT send cash.
Please send this Application Form and remittance to: UNOPAA c/- Peter McDonald, National Secretary 28A Dinah Parade, East Keilor, VIC, 3033 Mobile: 0418 131 352 Email: secretary@unopaa.org
Official Use Only
Membership updated on: By:
UNITED NATIONS & OVERSEAS POLICING ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA UNOPAA (Inc. NSW) ABN: 83 146 901 797
MERCHANDISE
COST
UNOPAA Tie – Blue with Light Blue Logo
$20.00
UNOPAA Cuff Links
$20.00
QUANTITY
SUBTOTAL
Tie
UNOPAA Lapel Pins Round
$20.00
UNOPAA Flag/ANF Lapel Pins
$10.00
UNOPAA/ANF Challenge Coin
$25.00
DELIVERY DETAILS
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Please note – GST, postage and handling included
Cuff Links
TOTAL:
CHEQUE OR MONEY ORDER Send cheque or money order in mail, payable to “UNOPAA”, and this form completed with your order to PO Box 7099, KARABAR NSW 2620 DIRECT CREDIT – INTERNET TRANSFER Account: UNOPAA Merchandise S2 BSB: 815000 Account: 100343942 Reference: <your last name> and ‘MRCHDS’ in the reference field Then e-mail details of the transaction including your reference number and a copy of this completed form to heldale.cooper@gmail.com Title (Mr, Mrs, Ms, Dr, Rank)
No/Street
First Name
City/Suburb
Last Name
State
Country
Mobile
Phone
Post/Zip Code
The United Nations & Overseas Police Association of Australia (UNOPAA) will accept returned products/ merchandise where: • The product is faulty, or not fit for purpose, or the product does not match the sample or description. Proof of purchase (UNOPAA merchandise receipt) must be provided in order to: • Obtain a refund (by cheque) will be provided or re-issue alike article.
Lapel Pins Round
Flag/ANF Lapel Pins
ANF Challenge Coin IMPORTANT NOTES The UNOPAA will take the utmost care in packaging; however, we will not accept any responsibility for goods damaged in transit. The UNOPAA will not accept returns where the product or merchandise is ordered specifically for an individual (eg Montage, clothing, etc) All queries for return of merchandise must be received within 30 days from date of purchase and directed to the UNOPAA Merchandise officer @heldale.cooper@ gmail.com. Item returns will be at the discretion of the APPVA Merchandise Officer provided the above criterion is met in the first instance. Please choose carefully as UNOPAA cannot accept returns due to a change of mind.