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PNG defence force join AACAP by Marianne Phillips 14 August 2015
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Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) contingent of soldiers is helping the Australian Army improve infrastructure in the Northern Territory community of Titjikala. The soldiers are working in the community until 7 September 2015, as part of the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme (AACAP), which is a collaborative partnership between the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) and the Australian Army. The PNGDF contingent consists of six carpenters, two plumbers, one electrician, two combat engineers, an interpreter, a medic and headquarters staff. Major Chris Sampson, the Contingent Commander for AACAP 2015, said the PNGDF is helping deliver improvements to local community infrastructure. “The addition of the PNGDF tradesmen allows us to enhance infrastructure in the community and surrounding areas,” Major Sampson said. “AACAP is one of many exercises that the PNGDF Engineer Battalion conducts alongside the Australian Army.” “AACAP allows the PNGDF to improve their trade skills and interact with their partners in the Australian Defence Force.” “This is a great opportunity for PNGDF and Australian soldiers, along with Indigenous community members, to share trade skills and cultural knowledge.”
Work being carried out on Aboriginal communities by the army in their Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme. Images: Defence Dept.
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