True Blue December 2022

True Blue Magazine

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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., including 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 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

Acting Branch President: Dale Cooper

Victoria/Tasmania

State President: Gavan Ryan APM Email: gavan.ryan@bigpond.com

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

Proudly published by:

Countrywide Austral Pty Ltd

ABN: 83 146 901 797 Ph: 03 9937 0200 Email: contact@cwaustral.com.au

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

From the Editor’s desk

In September, Australia commemorated the 75th anniversary of Australian Peacekeepers (actually it was the 76th but we can’t get the UN to recognise that Australia sent Peacekeepers into the (then) Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) in 1947. There was a fantastic turn-out in Canberra to the service arranged by the Dept of Veteran Affairs. The UNOPAA was well represented with quite a few members in attendance which was followed up with a UNOPAA dinner at a local Turkish restaurant – see the article re the commemoration in this edition.

October saw the 20th Anniversary of the Bali Bombings and a number of services were held around Australia to commemorate this (and subsequent disasters).

Then, of course, was the UNOPAA Conference and AGM held on Norfolk Island. What a fantastic week everyone had. I have included some photos of the week in this issue. Many thanks to the Norfolk Islanders who made us feel extremely welcome and looked after us all. A special thanks to the AFP who assisted with the provision of number of ceremonial and protocol officers and a mini–AFP Pipes and Drums band. During the week we were

also joined by Deputy Commissioner Neil Gaughan – Chief Police Officer for the ACT (including Norfolk Island). We were especially made welcome by the Administrator of Norfolk Island and the Norfolk Island RSL Sub-Branch of the RSL.

There are a number of articles included in this issue from ‘Around the Missions’ that I am sure you will find interesting. Some will bring back many memories for quite a few of you – particularly the one on the 3D imaging of Nicosia Airport.

So now it’s that time of the year where we spend quality time with our loved ones and remember those who will not be with us to celebrate Christmas. If you are going away for the festive season – take care on the roads and enjoy yourselves at your holiday destinations.

Enid and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and may 2023 be happy and prosperous.

Regards

Rod Walker Editor True Blue

Wow – the last four months have been fairly hectic from an association point of view.

Certainly a Reunion to Remember

Norfolk Island 2022

Between the 23rd and 30th October the UNOPAA AGM and Reunion took place on Norfolk Island. Those that attended enjoyed a week full of activities and social interaction. A resounding ‘We had a fantastic time’ was the feedback from all. A huge thankyou to outgoing National Vice President, Dale Cooper, for his fantastic effort in coordinating the event. Below are a few photos of the week.

Welcome Dinner at Paradise Resort.

A thankyou presentation to Dale. UN Day Parade – a first for Norfolk Island.

Church Service after the Parade.

AFP Recognition Team, AFP Pipes & Drums and the Norfolk Island Cadets made the day memorable.

The supply coastal trader arrived while we were there. Dinner at the RSL Club.

Tasting at Norfolk Island Liquors (bring on the Convict’s Curse).

Norfolk Island Administrator, Chief Police Officer for the ACT (including Norfolk Island), the AFP Ceremonial Team and the AFP Pipes & Drums.

A fantastic afternoon at Government House.

Terry Wright seemed to enjoy the tasting at Norfolk Island Brewery.

Off on a Half Day Tour of the island.

The tour took in the historic St Basil’s Chapel.

Yes,

Dale

(to no avail). Luckily, we presented him with one.

Our Guest speaker, Mr Sam Sapienza, rummaged through his wardrobe to find a tie

A fantastic reception at the historic Government House.

The AFP Pipes & Drums playing in the gardens of Government House.

A presentation from the UNOPAA to the Norfolk Island Administrator.

A lovely tropical setting for the formal dinner.

we had lucky door prize draws (many thanks to Ruby Travers for being the barrel girl).

explains the significance of the vacant table.

Pre-dinner drinks for the Black-Tie Dinner.

During the afternoon at Government House several internal AFP awards were presented by the Administrator and Chief Police Officer.

AFP Chief Police Officer for the ACT (and Norfolk Island) with the Norfolk Island Administrator.

UN Day in Sydney

Martin

Place

UNITED NATIONS - NATIONS UNIES

The Secretary-General UN Day Message

24 October 2022

The United Nations is the product of hope.

The hope — and resolve — following the Second World War to move beyond global conflict to global cooperation. Today, our organization is being tested like never before.

But the United Nations was made for moments like this. Now, more than ever, we need to bring to life the values and principles of the

UN Charter in every corner of the world.

By giving peace a chance and ending conflicts that jeopardize lives, futures and global progress.

By working to end extreme poverty, reduce inequalities, and rescue the Sustainable Development Goals.

By safeguarding our planet, including by breaking our

addiction to fossil fuels and kickstarting the renewable energy revolution. And by finally balancing the scales of opportunity and freedom for women and girls and ensure human rights for all.

As we mark UN Day, let us renew our hope and conviction in what humanity can achieve when we work as one, in global solidarity.

Pat Medway sent in this photo of attendees at the 2022 UN Day ceremony held in Martin Place, Sydney.

75th Anniversary of Australian Peacekeeping – Dawn Service

Just before dawn this morning a short service was held at the National Police Memorial to remember the four Australian Peacekeepers who’s names appear on the Wall.

Wreaths were laid by UNOPAA National Secretary Peter McDonald, Andy Brown representing the AFP Commissioner and Mick Travers on behalf of the family of Ian Ward. Wreaths were also laid to remember Pat Hackett , Lew Thomas and Adam Dunning who’s ultimate sacrifice in the service of peace is acknowledged at the NPM. Lest we forget.

UNOPAA National Secretary/Treasurer Peter McDonald lays a wreath.

Attendees at the Dawn Service.

A small Dawn Service.

AFP marks 75 years of Australian Peacekeeping

The AFP has led Australian peacekeeping forces since 1979, providing police to multinational operations with the United Nations, including deployments to Cambodia, Haiti, Mozambique, Sudan, Jordan, Bougainville and Afghanistan.

In May, 1964, Australian police peacekeeping commenced under the Australian Civilian Police (AUSTCIVPOL) with a deployment to Cyprus. In 1977, peacekeeping was led by the Commonwealth Police, a predecessor of the AFP and included police members from all Australian states and territories.

The Australian commitment to Cyprus continued for 53 years with the last contingent withdrawing in 2017.

AFP Peacekeepers have been recognised for their efforts in fostering strong partnerships in the Pacific region, working with the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste and Vanuatu.

AFP officers have been acknowledged for their roles in supporting local police in training and security, along with providing assistance during the re-establishment of peace following breakdowns in civil order.

Sadly, three members of AUSTCIVPOL lost their lives in Cyprus; Sergeant Llewllyn Thomas (1943-1969) from South Australian

Police; Inspector Mark Hackett (1940-1971); and Sergeant Ian Ward (1949-1974), who were both from the NSW Police Force.

In addition, AFP Protective Service Officer Adam Dunning (19782004) lost his life while on duty in the Solomon Islands as part of

the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).

AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw—who himself has been a peacekeeper—said the 75th anniversary of Australian peacekeeping was an important opportunity to acknowledge the

1st Australian Police Contingent arriving in Cyprus, May 1964.

The AFP is paying tribute to past and present members involved in peacekeeping around the world, as the 75th anniversary of Australian peacekeeping is commemorated in Canberra today (14 September, 2022).

service and commitment of AFP peacekeepers, along with all police who have lost their lives in service.

“The 75th anniversary of Australian peacekeeping is a significant milestone in our nation’s history. Australia has been called on to provide police peacekeepers

for support and assistance in operations across the globe and I thank all of our members, past and current, who answered that call,” Commissioner Kershaw said.

AFP Superintendent Jason Byrnes served with the 62nd Australian Civilian Police Contingent to

the United Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) between 1999-2000.

“My tour of duty with the UN in Cyprus was the first time I had travelled overseas and it was an eye-opening experience,” Superintendent Byrnes said.

During the mission, he undertook humanitarian patrols in the ‘Green Zone’ border separating the Green Cypriot South and the Turkish Cypriot North, as the regions were known at the time.

“On more than one occasion our job was to negotiate solutions between two sides who were locked in a confrontational mindset. Being police, we were generally able to bring common sense solutions to problems,” he said.

“One of my more challenging tasks was negotiating with a goat herder to get him and his herd to leave the buffer zone. It was drought conditions and the buffer zone had some of the best grass and food stock for his goats. It also had minefields and military forces on both sides that were shaping up to shoot the animals and probably at each other. It took a lengthy period of time to convince him to leave with his goats, but we were able to do it with everyone and every goat, being safe.”

Superintendent Byrnes said the 75th anniversary of Australian peacekeeping was significant, describing his time as a police peacekeeper as “humbling”.

“It was a tremendous honour to represent Australia and serve in the cause for international peace,” he said.

“While we wore UN uniforms, we had the Australian flag on them which made us instantly recognisable to local communities.”

The National Commemorative Service for the 75th Anniversary of Australian Peacekeeping was held at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial on 14th September 2022.

Cyprus 1988/89.

East Timor.

Cyprus 1985.

Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Australian Peacekeeping

On the 14th September the Department Of Veterans Affairs hosted a National Commemorative Service for the 75th Anniversary of Australian Peacekeeping on ANZAC Parade, Canberra at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial.

Several hundred attendees were at the ceremony. For the first time a member of the AFP formed part of the Catafalque Party. Another AFP Peacekeeper carried the AFP Banner in the Colour Party. Due to the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 11, the Governor General and Prime Minister could not attend as they had travelled to the United Kingdom to attend the Queen’s funeral.

After the service a group of Police Peacekeepers attended a coffee catchup at Poppy’s Café (Australian War Memorial)

That evening, the UNOPAA hosted a well-attended dinner at Zeytin Turkish Restaurant, Kingston, ACT.

The Minister for Veterans Affairs delivers the Commemorative Address.

Police Peacekeepers from all over Australia attended the Commemorative Service.

AFP Commissioner delivers the ‘Call to Remembrance’.

Dinner at the Zeytin Turkish Restaurant was well attended with Commissioner Kershaw APM (our patron) in attendance.

UNOPAA National President Michael Travers APM laid a wreath on behalf of our organisation.

Coffee catchup at ‘Poppy’s’.

The Australian Federal Police Banner was incorporated into the Colour party.

An AFP member formed part of the Catafalque Party.

Bali bombings 20th Anniversary Exhibition installed at Australian War Memorial

On Friday the 7th of October the Bali bombings 20th Anniversary Exhibition was installed at the Australia War Memorial (AWM).

Along with other projects such as the four-part Bali podcast series, the exhibition is one of the ways in which the AFP will mark the 20th anniversary of the Bali bombings on October 12th . The exhibition was lead curated by the AFP Museum (AFPM) in partnership with the exhibition host, the Australian War Memorial and has been developed over a period of 10 months.

The exhibition consists of a series of photographs taken by AFP members and press photographers, explanatory wall text and quotes from eye witnesses. The exhibition commemorates both the lives lost in this history defining incident and honours the service of Australian Federal Police members who were deployed to Bali and supported the investigation as part of Operation Alliance

The photographs within the exhibition are loosely organised around three key themes: the bombings, the AFP response and justice and remembering. These themes take into consideration the fact that some visitors to the AWM may not have been born at the time the bombings occurred or may have forgotten they occurred through the natural passage of time.

The development of the exhibition has also seen the AFP Museum connect with both former and current serving members who deployed to Bali and involved a painstaking process to correctly

identify members depicted in photographs used in the exhibition.

In a number of cases members have never been identified in both AFP and press imagery. Some of the photographs were used extensively in 2002 and are somewhat iconic, while others weren’t published widely in the press at the time. Former and current serving members also helped provide important contextual information for some of the images that was used to write image captions.

An illustration made by the Australian Bomb Data Centre of the Mitsubishi L300 minivan that contained the Sari Club bomb will

also give visitors an insight into the way in which the largest of the three bombs was brought to its point of detonation. The exhibition also includes the perspective of civilians caught in the bombings with one of the eye witness quotes supplied by Dr Hanabeth Luke who is a survivor of the Sari Club blast and has written about her experience of the Bali bombings in the book Shock Waves

The exhibition will run until midNovember in the entry corridor of the AWM and is open 10am to 4pm daily. The 20th anniversary was spotlighted at the October 12th last post ceremony at the AWM.

The AFP’s Forensic Team at the Bali Bomb site.

Part of the AFP’s Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Team in Bali. NOTE: UNOPAA President Mick Travers (centre) was the DVI Team Leader.

20th Anniversary of Bali bombings

Bali Memorial, Dolphins Point, in the beachside suburb of Coogee.

On October 12, 2002, 202 people were killed during terrorist attacks in Kuta, Bali, including 88 Australians - almost one-quarter from Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The Bali Memorial in Dunningham Reserve, Coogee Beach, was unveiled on the first anniversary of the bombings in 2003, and has become a special focal point and place of reflection for many of the victims’ families and the survivors, and has been dedicated to the memory of the Bali bombing victims.

This year’s commemoration included readings from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and the Lord Mayor of Randwick Council, Mr Dylan Parker. There were dedications by family members, followed by live performances, the laying of flowers, reading of the New South Wales and Tasmanian victims’ names, along with a minute’s silence. Former AFP member Katrina Kendall (nee Povolny) who worked as a Family Liaison Officer in 2002 supporting the families, was part of the ceremony, reading some of the names of the 43 NSW victims. The ceremony ended with the release of 88 white doves and the laying of floral tributes.

The Bali Memorial Sculpture has become a focal point and place of reflection for many of the victims.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and Lord Mayor of Randwick Council Dylan Parker lay wreaths at the Bali Memorial in Coogee. The Bali Memorial Plaque.

A Sand Sculpture in honour of the victims was created at Coogee Beach.

National Police Remembrance Day

This year was the first time since 2019 that a full parade and service was able to be held in Canberra. This year recruits from the NSW Police College (Goulburn) and the AFP along with the NSW Police Band and AFP Pipes & Drums participated in the ceremony and parade. Flags of each Australian Police Force/Service were paraded and carried by officers of the respective Police Force/Service. NSW Mounted Police and retired Police officers also took part. The Remembrance Ceremony was attended by the Governor General, Prime Minister Albanese, Federal Government Ministers along with senior officers from Australian Police Forces/Services and the Fiji Police Commissioner.

The Parade looking down Kings Avenue, Canberra.

The National Carillion at dusk. The National Police Memorial with the illuminated National Carillion.

There was a large crowd in attendance.

The Riderless Horse. The Governor General takes the salute. Prime Minister Albanese.

Awaiting the arrival of dignitaries.

Honouring our fallen Police

The National Carillon in Canberra honoured the memory of eight Australian officers who died in the line of duty between 2020 to 2022, with a light projection of their faces.

We remember:

The National Carillon in Parkes was open to the public and the display could be viewed in person from 6pm every night until midnight on 29 September 2022 (National Police Remembrance Day).

Senior Constable Kelly Foster (NSW Police).

Senior Constable Kevin King (Victoria Police).

Detective Senior Constable Mike Cursiter (Western Australia Police).

Constable Glen Humphris (Victoria Police).

Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor (Victoria Police).

Senior Constable David Masters (Queensland Police).

Constable Joshua Prestney (Victoria Police).

Senior Constable Bria Joyce (Victoria Police).

POLICE INSIGNIA COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA (PICAA)

The Police Insignia Collectors Association of Australia (PICAA) is dedicated to the collection, documentation and preservation of items of memorabilia from Police, Fire, Ambulance, Emergency Services, Corrections, Military, Security and Federal departments and agencies throughout Australia.

PICAA membership is open to all persons who are interested in or are involved in the collecting, exchanging or preservation of law enforcement, police and / or emergency services insignia, subject to assessment.

PICAA aims to promote the hobby of law enforcement and emergency services insignia collecting in Australasia by;

• encouraging the research, collation & collecting of historical facts & insignia;

• collecting and disseminating information of interest to members;

• liaising with other interested bodies who may be of assistance to the members of the association;

• promoting and maintaining contact with police, law enforcement and emergency services insignia collectors throughout the world, and;

• encouraging the display of collections by members.

PICAA produces a quarterly magazine, which is provided via email or direct download from the PICAA site at www.picaa.org.au

Are you a collector, have a passion for preserving uniform and insignia history, are seeking information on collecting, or are looking to start in the hobby?

CONTACT AND MEMBER APPLICATIONS

www.picaa.org.au - ‘Contact Us’

Rob Brown - PICAA President

Michael Austin - PICAA Secretary

Download a Membership Application at: https://www.picaa.org.au/dues/ Enquiries can also be sent to: PICAA Secretary General PO Box 1070 Gymea, NSW 2227 Australia

Around the Missions

North hands UNFICYP a one-month deadline

“We are aware of the request made by the Turkish Cypriot side at the UN Headquarters recently although we have yet to receive any official notification from them,” said Aleem Siddique. “The presence of the force remains unchanged.”

According to reports in the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet, the ‘government’ in the north had given Unficyp an ultimatum, asking them to recognise their ‘state’ or leave.

In his interview, the Turkish Cypriot ‘foreign minister’ Tahsin Ertugruloglu said that if Unficyp does not make an agreement with the breakaway regime then they will need to abandon their two stations in the north.

Ertugruloglu said that Unficyp’s mandate stems from an agreement with the Greek-Cypriot side, and that the north is hosting them.

“Our hospitality has ended, either they sign a military agreement with the ‘TRNC’ or they will have to leave,” he said.

He added that at the UN General Assembly in New York, he, and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar met with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean Pierre Lacroix, to whom they presented their preliminary ‘status of forces of agreement’ (SOFA). They also

informed them that they will take further steps to have the ‘TRNC’ recognised.

“After 1974, we live with the security of the Turkish army, if the UN soldiers leave the ‘TRNC’, they will leave,” he said.

By Nikolaos Prakas Source: Cyprus Mail

UNFICYP has not received any notification about the north’s request to leave their stations in a month if they do not recognise the breakaway regime, the force’s spokesperson told Cyprus Mail on Wednesday.

Farmer harassed by Turkish soldiers in buffer zone

Community leader Christakis Panayiotou told the media that the incident took place around 6.15pm on Monday, when a 30-year-old animal farmer was herding his sheep 500 metres inside the buffer zone. Then, six soldiers from the north came down from their posts with their guns and approached the farmer, asking him to leave the area. One of them loaded his gun, Panayiotou said.

In the video, which was recorded by the farmer, a soldier is shown as taking a rock from the ground and throwing it towards the farmer.

“They shouted at him and threw stones at him and finally chased him away,” Panayiotou said, adding that at the time of the incident, there were no UNFICYP peacekeepers in the area. The community leader said he contacted the foreign ministry, the national guard and the United Nations over the issue.

UNFICYP chief of communications and spokesman, Aleem Siddique said the peacekeeping force is investigating the incident.

“We

He added that the safety of civilians inside the buffer zone remains the highest priority for the peacekeeping force.

However, according to the community leader, similar incidents are often taking place in the area.

In February, five Turkish soldiers threatened farmers working near Denia. One of the soldiers threatened to kill a farmer if he would not leave the area, the community leader had then told the Cyprus Mail.

By Gina Agapiou Source: Cyprus Mail

UNFICYP was investigating on Monday after armed Turkish soldiers were caught on video harassing a Greek Cypriot farmer in Denia village in the buffer zone.

need to complete the investigation before we can come to any conclusions,” he said.

Recapturing the Spirit of the Old Nicosia Airport

NIC Project: Official Launch of the NIC Platform.

During the summer 2021, a team from The Cyprus Institute composed of researchers from the Andreas Pittas Art Characterization Laboratories (APAC) of the Science and Technology in Archaeology and Culture Research Center (STARC), and the Unmanned Systems Research Laboratories (USRL) of the Climate and Atmosphere Research Center (CARE-C), with the support of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), completed the full digitization of the former Nicosia International Airport, today located in the buffer zone and inaccessible.

After the events of 1974, the airport ceased its operations, with its surroundings hosting UNFICYP’s headquarters, but the building itself out of bounds. Today the access to the airport terminal is deemed unsafe due to years of abandonment and lack of maintenance. Thanks to the

NIC platform it is now possible to explore it again, virtually walking all its spaces including offices, shops, public and restricted areas, bringing back to the society a landmark of Cypriot history.

The NIC Project (named after the airport’s IATA code) focuses on an interdisciplinary 3D modelling and a visualization process to create interactive applications for virtual tours. After a meticulous and long data analysis and post processing, The Cyprus Institute is thrilled to release the first version of the NIC platform, which includes a full virtual tour including all accessible areas of the main terminal, the control tower, the hangar, and three planes sitting in the airport premises. Additionally, the NIC platform features a collection of historical images and videos which aim to open a window to the days when the airport was fully operational and visited by numerous holiday makers.

The platform is freely available at https://nic-project.com

The NIC logo is inspired by the last flight which landed in Nicosia and designed according to the baggage tags used by airline carriers to route checked luggage to their final destinations. It aims to remind that the Nicosia International airport was once fully operational. Flight CY317 was operated by Cyprus Airways with a Hawker Siddeley HS-121 Trident 1E plane, registration 5B-DAE. It was the last flight which landed in Nicosia departing from London via Rome on 19 July 1974.

Drone Footage from the Old Nicosia Airport is available here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=nZ3mBbq8rGM

Swedish contingents to UNFICYP

Lecture Cyprus by Lars–Göran Lindström

The Cyprus Battalions were the battalions of Swedish soldiers who worked in various peacekeeping forces in Cyprus during the period 1964-1987 The battalions were part of the UNFICYP. During the effort, a total of 17 Swedish soldiers died at different occasions. Over the years, Sweden manned a total of 25 589 military personnel in UNFICYP. In addition, another 2 365 personnel positions within the police were added. Some staff and police continued to serve until 1993.

The battalion was initially named with a serial numbering from 24C to 38C. Only even numbers were used. Starting from Battalion 39C odd numbers were also used until the fall of 1974 when Battalion 51C became the first battalion in a series of battalions numbered with odd numbers. The numbering took place in the spring of 1980 and battalion 75C before the battalions once again used both odd and even numbers up to 90C, which became the last Swedish battalion in Cyprus under UNFICYP.

We became 23 former UN soldiers who took the opportunity to listen to Lars-Göran’s interesting lectures on UN peacekeeping forces in Cyprus, United Nations Peacekeeping Forces in Cyprus (UNFICYP).

Lars-Göran Lindström did not only touch his service at UNFICYP 26 C (Cyprus 1964-1965), but also a little bit of the origin of the events on the Mediterranean Island, as well as the return trip carried out in 2014, ie 50 years after return. Here, personnel from the previous mission 24 C and 28 C were also on the trip.

As battles broke out between Turkish and Greek Cypriots, on December 21, 1963, the parties to the conflict gathered at a conference in early 1964 and agreed to request the United

Nations to take responsibility for peacekeeping activities. The Security Council approved the request and UNFICYP was established. In March 1964, among other things, entourage arrived from Sweden with several countries.

The battalion of about 700 men was reinforced with 103 men from the Gaza Battalion and 150 men from the returning Congo Battalion, thus growing to 955 men. To begin with broadcast except Sweden, eight countries troop to UNFICYP. There Denmark, Finland and the UK were marked.

The task was to keep Greek and Turkish Cypriots apart. Cyprus was like a leopard skin, the folk lived in villages or enclaves across the country, a fragmentary map met the Swedish soldiers who were first grouped on the island’s west. OP seats have been set up.

In order to maintain order, it was important for the Swedish battalions to obtain information in the villages. It meant that the soldiers had to build confidence and had to conduct some sort of intelligence service.

When UNFICYP was grouped on the island in the spring of 1964, the Swedish battalion was in charge of Paphos district on the island’s western part. Two Swedish lieutenants

Helge Hjalmarsson and Willy Lindh were arrested on September 24, 1964 while smuggling weapons to the Turkish Cypriot side. The weapon smuggling caused the parties to lose confidence in the Swedes and the battalion was therefore moved to the eastern part of the island where they took over responsibility for the Famagusta district.

In response to a coup d’état carried out by Greek elements, Turkey occupied parts of northern Cyprus in July 1974. Battles lasted in different intensity until mid-August. Following the hostilities, UNFICYP’s mandate was expanded to staff a buffer zone between the parties.

The data for the Swedes changed radically in 1974 after the Turkish invasion. From protecting villages, it was now patrolling the buffer zone between north and south. The Swedish battalion was then assigned responsibility for the Larnaca sector, sector 5, an area between Nicosia and Dhekelia base.

The battalions also separated the Turkish army and the Greek National Guard. In the past, it would have been a classic civil war. Now Turkey was a player. 200,000 Greek Cypriots had fled the north, leaving their homes. Turkish Cypriots also fled, but in the other direction, it was a kind of ethnic cleansing.

The UN troops in Cyprus were not funded by the UN budget but were funded by respective troop donors. In February 1987, Sweden informed the Secretary General that the Swedish troop would be withdrawn at the end of the year unless both the financial condition changed and the political situation in Cyprus significantly improved. At the end of 1987, Sweden withdrew its battalion.

Source: UNFICYP Facebook

UNFICYP

Yesterday was a sad day... We buried the remains of İbrahim Mehmet Goççino Gürsoy who had been killed during the war in 1974 in Episkopi... He was only a 21 year old youngster... May he rest in peace...

His brother Mustafa Gürsoy, during his speech at the funeral in Nicosia said his mother and father could never overcome the pain of losing their son... We share the pain of the relatives...

Source: UNFICYP Current & former members Facebook page

Nepal joins UNFICYP

UNFICYP held a flag-raising ceremony for Nepal at the United Nations Protected Area this morning. United Nations Police - UNPOL’ Senior Police Advisor, Assistant Police Commissioner Satu Koivu, welcomed Nepal as a Police Contributing Country with the arrival of UNPOL officer, Mohan Adhikari. UNFICYP ’s newly arrived Chief of Finance, Ramesh Singh, also from Nepal, was present at the ceremony.

Source: UNFICYP Facebook

RSIPF and SIAF farewell eight AFP officers

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF) recently farewelled eight AFP officers who have been serving there under SIAF.

These officers have been performing SIAF duties for various periods of time with the longest serving member of this group arriving in December 2021.

To mark the end of their mission in the country, RSIPF Assistant Commissioner Simpson Pogeava and Deputy Commissioner SIAF Heath Davies presented each officer with a small memento recognising their invaluable service.

Assistant Commissioner Pogeava thanked the officers for supporting the RSIPF, especially during Operation Parliament. He said he has hardly seen these officers at the Rove Police Headquarters which is a demonstration that they are always out supporting the RSIPF.

Assistant Commissioner Pogeava also thanked the officers for

displaying a high standard of work in their support of RSIPF engagement with the communities. He said feedback received about the conduct of these officers has been very positive.

“I, on behalf of the RSIPF Commissioner, wish to thank you

for your service. I hope you come back and help the RSIPF in the future”.

Assistant Commissioner Pogeava, DC SIAF and Acting Commander Clinton Smith of the RSIPF-AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP) wished the officers well in their future endeavours.

Holau Christian Academy thank police for visit

Despite the wild weather on Wednesday 21 September, Police visited Holau Christian Academy (HCA) at Karaina Community (White River) in West Honiara to conduct an awareness talk.

A Police Officer from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) National Crime Prevention Department (NCPD) supported by members of the Australian Federal Police working as part of the Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF), visited and held an awareness talk, interacting with students and teachers at the school.

This is the first time that the school has received a team of police officers in one of their classes. During their visit, officers spoke about a range of issues and gave students and teachers an idea of their work.

Constable Ashley John Marigeni from RSIPF NCPD talked about his role in the justice system and what police do in the communities.

“It is important for the police to attend schools and get to know the students, as this helps break down some of the barriers and increases the young people’s confidence in the police,” Constable Marigeni said.

Matthew Lyddiard, AFP Inspector SIAF Operations, stated that, “The Australian Federal Police as part of the Solomons’ International Assistance Force looks for all opportunities to support the RSIPF; and community engagement with young people is an extremely important activity for police to undertake.”

Inspector Lyddiard said that SIAF will continue to support the RSIPF undertaking community engagement and other operational activities.

The principal of the school, Mrs. Daisy Mary Tepule, expressed her gratitude to the police for responding to their request to visit and talk to their students and teachers.

Mrs. Tepule said their students and teachers see police officers in a different way after the visit.

‘It has become a normal thinking in the Solomon Islands that when police present anywhere an arrest or something bad will happen.

In fact, Police officers are friends and not enemy,” Mrs. Tepule said. “With this visit and awareness talk, we are relieved and happy that police demonstrated that they actually care for people’s safety. We want to thank them for visiting us.”

“We look forward to more police visits and a stronger partnership with the police as their presence give us a sense of protection. We look up to the police but when police come down and meet us, it is a satisfying experience,” Mrs. Tepule said.

Source: AFP News online –28/9/2022

AFP officers join players, spectators for Solomon Islands women’s rugby festival

Two AFP Protective Services Officers - part of the Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF) - joined the Solomon Islands rugby family recently for the Women in Rugby Month Festival (WIRMF) at the Town Ground Stadium.

WIRMF is an annual competition celebrated by all 17 Member Unions in Oceania Rugby.

The Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) organised the event in Honiara, where women rugby players and supporters can share and listen to stories from women in rugby, and engage in fun games.

The event is part of SIRUF efforts to make rugby safe and accessible to girls and women in the region, and to grow female representation in all roles on and off the field through competition reform and program development.

Members of the current Solomon Island National Rugby Team were at the Stadium during the day, participating in drills and mentoring participants. The afternoon was focused on team building, rugby drills and learning modules.

The Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) and Seif Ples Centre used the event to deliver awareness talks about safe participation of women and girls in community activities.

PSOs Kirsty Scott and Erin Hunter met with SIRUF’s Development Officer Godfrey Salo to show their support and also volunteered to lead activities on the day. Mr Salo said the festival aims to teach and empower local rugby volunteers

and coaches to confidently host their own rugby camps and development days.

PSO Hunter also met Augustine, a volunteer who usually works with the Royal Solomon Islands

Police Force. Augustine said he is keen to see more programs like the WIRMF happening in Honiara and that he enjoyed seeing AFP members being part of it.

AFP officers are looking forward to supporting more initiatives that encourage local young women and girls in sport as part of their engagement with the community.

PSO Hunter said she really enjoyed being part of the event and seeing the local women and girls get involved. She added that being involved in community events like this are important and help police build stronger relationships with community members.

Protective Service Officers Kirsty Scott and Erin Hunter take time out with a small participant at the Women in Rugby Month Festival.

AFP members attend UN Training of Trainers in Nepal

Two members of AFP’s International Command recently joined police from eight other countries to undertake United Nations Training and Certification of Member States’ Trainer Course (ToT) for new Specialised Training Materials for UN Police at the National Armed Police Force (APF) Academy, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Two members of AFP’s International Command recently joined police from eight other countries to undertake United Nations Training and Certification of Member States’ Trainer Course (ToT) for new Specialised Training Materials for UN Police at the National Armed Police Force (APF) Academy, Kathmandu, Nepal.

The Specialised Training Materials for UN Police 2021 (UNPOL STM 2021) provide police-contributing countries with a standardised training package that prepares their officers for duties in UN Peace Operations, and form part of the new UN Police Training Architecture. The architecture aims to provide role specific officers to UN Missions through the redevelopment of the Core Police Training Materials (CPTM), STM’s, and the introduction of Job

Specific Training (JST). Hosted by the APF, the course included participants from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Nepal and Australia, all wanting to enhance their countries ability to prepare their staff for deployment on UN Missions.

Over two weeks the participants were exposed to the new materials, enhanced learning methodologies and didactics to expand their pedagogical skills and knowledge. Master Trainers were on hand to assess the participants understanding of, and ability to deliver, the new materials.

The course was organised by the Integrated Training Service (ITS) of the UN Department of Peace Operations in cooperation with the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), US Department of State.

The AFP retains its UN Training Accreditation and is engaging with the UN and US Department of State with an aim to assist Pacific nations prepare their members for UN Missions.

AFP Federal Agent Nathan Thompson delivering a training session as part of the UNPOL STM Training of Trainers Course.

Submission Veterans’ Legislation Simplification and Harmonisation

11 November 2022

PURPOSE

This submission is made on behalf of the United Nations & Overseas Policing Association of Australia (UNOPAA) in response to the Government Call for Feedback on Veterans’ Legislative reform, announced by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs on 17 October 2022 and published on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) website. Our response is not exhaustive but made in the limited time made available for submissions. We would welcome further discussion on the issues we are raising.

BACKGROUND

UNOPAA is an Australiawide, incorporated non-profit organisation whose membership includes serving, retired and former police officers from police forces across Australia who have served overseas with the United Nations and on other Australian peacekeeping/capacity building missions since 1964. Our members also include the widows and relatives of those members.

Persons who have served as members of Australian peacekeeping forces are included in the Veterans Entitlement Act 1986 (VEA), and have an entitlement for full or part disability pensions and access to treatment for any injury or disease that is accepted as being caused by peacekeeping service (Parts IV and V of the VEA). Gold and White Cards can be applied for on this basis, as well as nonliability health care for malignant neoplasia (cancer) and pulmonary tuberculosis, and for mental health conditions under a determination made under section 88A.

Eligible peacekeeping service is listed in Schedule 3 of the VEA and has been extended by Ministerial determination, the last for service in 2006. These missions have now concluded and no Australian police are currently serving as UN peacekeepers overseas. However, Australian police have also been deployed in the past to peacekeeping in Somalia, and to order maintenance, capacity building and training roles in locations such as Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, Jordan, Pakistan and Afghanistan. These missions are not included in the VEA.

No other legislation, apart from the VEA, specifically addresses the service of Australian police as overseas peacekeepers. They were intentionally excluded from the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), when it was enacted, on the understanding that their needs and requirements would be separately addressed. This has not occurred, leading to a number of anomalies of concern to us.

In short, this centres around equity. Australian Defence Force

personnel who served in certain operational areas overseas have entitlements to treatment, to which police peacekeepers who served in the same theatres and at the same time do not. And the list of peacekeeping missions in Schedule 3 needs to be updated.

PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION INQUIRY & REPORT

In February 2019, we made a submission and gave evidence to the Productivity Inquiry Into Compensation and Rehabilitation for Veterans under the theme “What About Us?”. This highlighted the different treatment of police peacekeepers in comparison to members of the ADF, and put forward a number of proposals for change.

In its final report, ”A Better Way to Support Veterans”, the Productivity Commission found that the current system was complex, inconsistent, inequitable and difficult to navigate – and made a strong case that it be simplified and harmonised across all three applicable Acts (the VEA, the MRCA, and the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defencerelated Claims) Act 1988 (DRCA)).

OUR ISSUES

The consultation being undertaken by DVA, in our view, does not adequately address the inconsistency and inequity of the VEA. Limiting its scope to the formal recommendations made by the Productivity Commission will resolve some mainly ADF issues, but is a missed opportunity for reform.

The VEA is complex. It uses a range of different definitions for similar service and legal gymnastics to achieve an aim. For example, any injuries or illnesses suffered as a member of a Peacekeeping Force (our major area of interest) are deemed to be “war-caused” under the treatment provisions, but not to have occurred in an operational area or during warlike service. As a result, military who have reached 70 years of age are eligible for Gold Cards for treatment for all injuries or diseases, but our members are not. In addition, Australian police service in warlike conditions, such as the Turkish occupation of Cyprus in 1974, is not regarded as such as it did not involve the ADF. While the emphasis on ADF service in the three Acts is understandable, given their primary purpose, cleaning up the VEA would greatly assist its administration and not be costly to implement. In our view, it is a priority before the Productivity Commission recommendation for a two-scheme system is implemented.

SPECIFIC COMMENTS

Our specific comments on the recommendations are as follows:

8.1 Harmonise the initial liability process Supported, noting there will be a cost involved. The change will mean that all ADF claims are assessed the same, irrespective of whether they occurred in Australia or during overseas service.

Lowering the barrier is likely to result in more claims being accepted, and the distinction between service in operational and non-operational areas removed.

8.2 Abolish the Specialist Medical Review Council (SMRC) Supported, as it should provide greater flexibility in the engagement of specialist advice when Statements of Principles decisions are reviewed.

8.3 Move the MRCA to a Single Standard of Proof Supported. See also our comments under 8.1

10.2 Single Review Pathway Supported, subject to any DVA internal reconsideration of decisions being subject to time limits and the Veterans’ Review Board being appropriately resourced and empowered for its modified role.

10.4 Review of Ongoing Role of Veterans’ Review Board Supported. This should be required after a set period.

13.1 Harmonise the DRCA with the MRCA

This falls outside our remit, as police peacekeepers are not included- in either Act.

13.2 – 13.4 Administration of Invalidity Payments Again, these recommendations mainly relate to the ADF

14.1 – 14.10 Compensation for an Impairment Again, related to the MRCA and the ADF

15.2 – 15.6 Simplifying Additional Payments Supported, providing existing recipients are not disadvantaged.

19.1 Two Schemes for Veterans Support

This is the most complex recommendation, as it involves the closure of the VEA to new applicants (except peacekeepers) and the transition of claimants,

except those with current or accepted claims, to a modified MRCA . Veterans under 55 currently covered by the VEA could also choose to move to the MRCA.

As we have stated, we believe the VEA should be greatly simplified during this process. Careful consideration should also be given to any other (non ADF) groups, in addition to police peacekeepers, who might be affected by the move to two schemes - such as WW2 mariners, military personnel from other Commonwealth countries or others not fitting within the ambit of the DRCA or the MRCA.

We would also point out the statement by the Productivity Commission at page 831 of their final report:

“Veterans without a current or accepted claim at the implementation date should be covered under scheme 2 going forward. This would speed up the transition towards scheme 2. There would be one exception to this. As noted by the United Nations and Overseas Policing Association of Australia, police peacekeepers have access under the VEA but not under the MRCA or the DRCA. That means police peacekeepers who have not yet made a claim would retain their eligibility to make a claim under the VEA if they were previously eligible to do so.”

IN CONCLUSION

We look forward to further contact as the consultation continues, including discussion on the matters we have raised.

Prepared by:

Peter McDonald National Secretary/Treasurer

Royal Commission Interim Report recommendations

Royal Commission

AT A GLANCE:

• The Royal Commission has so far held a total of 47 hearing days.

and Veteran Suicide Interim

• Five locations have been visited by the Commission to date.

• At least two further locations are scheduled – Darwin and Wagga Wagga.

• The interim report delivered 13 urgent recommendations for change.

Released on 11 August 2022, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Interim Report included very little discussion of ex-service organisations (ESOs) or the role of ESOs.

Instead, it focused on legislative reforms that would enable information gathering through the remainder of the Commission, simplify veterans’ access to entitlements, enable the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) to clear a backlog of claims and process future claims in a timely manner, and improve access to information for current and former Defence personnel and their families.

The Commission also proposes additional protection for those engaging with the Royal Commission and reforms to improve access to information. In providing support for veterans and their families who engage with the Commission through the RSL NSW Royal Commission Office, we’ve seen firsthand the need for this, and support the measures the Commission proposes.

THE 13 INTERIM RECOMMENDATIONS

The Royal Commission Interim Report includes 13 recommendations, which are outlined below:

Simplify and harmonise veteran compensation and rehabilitation legislation

Eliminate the DVA claims backlog

Improve the administration of the claims system

Have the DVA to provide advice on its funding needs

Remove the DVA Average Staffing Level Cap

Increase protections for persons engaging with this Royal Commission

Provide exemptions from parliamentary privilege

Limit public interest immunity claims

Improve administrative release of information

Co-design information to increase awareness of redactions for access requests

Embed trauma-informed practices for information access

Encourage up-to-date consent for information access

Co-design education on information access mechanisms

The

into Defence

Report delivers 13 urgent recommendations – and a milestone opportunity to address a devastating problem in our community.

An interesting comparison

Remember the accoutrements you were issued with when you joined the Police. Look what they carry now.

Source: Victoria Police – PoliceLife – Spring/Summer 2022 edition

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:

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER ALAN JAMES MILLS AO APM (RETD).

Mr Mills passed away on 7 October 2022 aged 80 years.

Mr Mills represented the AFP internationally including a secondment to the Royal Papua Guinea Constabulary; service as the SLO Washington as well as Commanding the 33rd Australian Police Contingent in Cyprus.

Following his retirement Mr Mills was appointed Commissioner of the United Nations civilian police detachment (CIVPOL) to East Timor in 1999 UNAMET & UNTAET)

Mr Mill’s funeral service was held at Norwood Park Crematorium (Canberra) on Saturday, 15 October 2022.

ALAN FRANCIS BARBOUR

Alan deployed as an AFP member of the 16th Australian Police Contingent to Cyprus. Alan passed away on 7 October 2022 aged 79 years.

Alan’s funeral service was held at Norwood Park Crematorium (Canberra) on Tuesday, 18 October 2022.

KAY HARLOVICH

Wife of Frank Harlovich of the 10th Cyprus Contingent. Kay was a staunch supporter of the UNOPAA and was to join us at the Norfolk Island Reunion.

Kay passed away on Monday 17 October 2022. Her funeral was held at the Norwood Park Crematorium on Tuesday 25th October 2022.

RANDALL GAWNE

An ACT Police member of the 17 & 18th Contingents to Cyprus (1980-82) and the 28th Contingent (1988).

Randall transitioned to the AFP when it was formed, then moved to the Queensland Police Force, where he served for 21 years, and then to Marine Rescue NSW as the Regional Operations Manager Mid North Coast.

He sadly passed away from cancer in Port Macquarie on 26 October 2022. Funeral details are unknown.

ROBERT (BOB) OLIVER

A NSW Police member of the 10th Contingent to Cyprus (1973-74). Bob passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease on 21 November 2022.

His funeral was held in Broadmeadow (Newcastle) NSW on Tuesday, 29 November 2022.

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

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 at 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.

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.

ARE THEY TRIPLE OK?

We’re always t he re to help. Let ’s m a ke su re we help eac h ot he r a n d a sk R U O K?

ruok .org. au/ triple - ok