101 Construction Squadron

2010 Overview

2010 started with almost a completely new Squadron Headquarters; with a new OC, MAJ Theo Kolyvas, new 2IC, SSM and TP Comds.

EX SCORPION AWAKENING
Following an AIRN and Mandatory Training Weekend in February, the Squadron conducted a training block in March. The aim of Exercise SCORPION AWAKENING 2010 was to conduct specialist military construction training in a low threat environment. An impressive effort was observed by all participating members of 101 Const Sqn over the training block, with the completion of significant projects and some tasks of opportunity at work sites on Holsworthy Range.

The Exercise was situated at three separate work sites and a Forward Operating Base / Squadron HQ at Giles Junction. The tactical scenario included infantry support at all work sites which enabled Squadron personnel to complete their construction tasks without having to simultaneously provide for their own security. The battle rhythm included the concentration of all Sqn members at the FOB in the evening thus providing the opportunity for the incremental development of local defence such as a staking weapon pits, building a strong point, laying wire obstacles and the preparation of a snap Vehicle Check Point.

Resources Troop focused on building a gabion wall at Engineers Bridge, to halt the ongoing erosion problem. This bridge goes back into 21 Const Regt and the RAE history and has also been identified as being of historic heritage value. (see inset box on the History of Engineer's Bridge)

Construction Troop was kept busy with vertical construction tasks within Special Forces Training Facility (SFTF). These projects will add to the quality of the training being given to our troops prior to deployment. It is also envisaged that the site may provide future worthwhile tasks for Construction Troop.

Plant Troop focused their magnificent efforts on widening and improving 1800m of the fire trail in the proximity of Gate 8, running parallel to Heathcote road, all completed without a water truck!


Engineers Bridge - 21 CR's Flagship Project
In light of 101 Const Sqn's refurbishment works on Engineers Bridge in March 2010, it is worthwhile to celebrate one of 21 Const Regt's previous construction feats - being Engineers Bridge. Some current (grey haired) members of the Regiment had a hand in the Bridge construction and ongoing maintenance over the years.

The bridge project was conceived in 1978 when then Commander 2nd Military District, COL R.S. Deacon, asked the Chief Engineer Field Force Command, COL F.J. Cross, if the Field Force Unit could remove the old suspension bridge and replace it. The task was passed to 21 Const Regt for completion during the period 16 Feb - 05 Mar 80. The final design selected was a Double-Single through Bridge with Single Two-Pinned Arch to span the 55m gap.

The site works, embankments and footings were constructed by 17 Const Sqn using NSW Dept of Main Roads Facilities prior to 21 CR arriving on site. The Arches were constructed by 21 Const Regt from both banks simultaneously and completed on the 18 Feb 80. Construction proper was completed on 28 Feb 80 with the remaining seven days spent removing the old suspension bridge cables, painting the Bridge and constructing the concrete approach ramps.

Engineers Bridge was officially opened on 5 Mar 80 by the Chief Engineer, 2nd Military District, COL N.W. Sharpe.

AACAP 17
In May the AACAP 17 mentoring team was farewelled to Pukatja in the far North West of Australia. Each AACAP has a construction element, a health element and an Employability Skills Program, conducted in conjunction with TAFE. This year, 21 Const Regt provided 10 mentors and a team manager to deliver 8 indigenous trainees a Certificate I/II in Engineering and the associated employability skills essential to gaining and retaining employment (including literacy, numeracy, computing, leadership and goal setting).

With the lowest income per capita in Australia, generational unemployment, cultural practices that mitigate against work and no major employment opportunities in the region, there were some significant hurdles to overcome in the community.

The mentors from 21 Const Regt were hand-picked for their maturity, trade qualifications, sense of humour and experience for the particularly challenging task. SGT Gary Keegan, who has completed more than 10 AACAPs, commended the patience and tenacity of his mentor team: "The mentors have done a sterling job to keep the trainees in the program, to keep them learning and to keep them motivated and positive."

One of the first tasks was to conduct a site cleanup and prepare the workshop for the training. Once that was completed, team building activities and personal skills of the mentors quickly gained the confidence and trust of the trainees to enter and remain in the training program. New found welding, oxyacetylene and angle grinding skills were transferred into practical skills when the trainees produced braziers and BBQs for use by the community. The practical application of their skills for the benefit of the community provided many positive messages to other community members. Some of the trainees displayed a natural ability, in particular Anslem Morris emerged as a natural leader, quickly picking up the Oxy set skills and assisting other trainees in the training.

At the end of the program, six trainees completed the program and four full time and two part time jobs have been identified by businesses in the wider region and are being considered by the trainees. The community has had a significant improvement in its facilities and health, as well as the outlook for employment and sustainability.

EX STEADY SCORPION
In July, 101 Const Sqn provided construction engineering support to Singleton Range Training Area (SRTA) during EX STEADY SCORPION, which was conducted as part of the 5 Bde Combined Arms Training Activity (CATA) for 2010.

Even before the EX began, soldiers in the Sqn became involved in a HAZMAT incident at a local Singleton Petrol Station as they deployed to SRTA. Soldiers from the Sqn isolated and cleaned up a large petrol spill caused by a civilian vehicle.

During the 15 day period, 101 Const Sqn undertook four tasks: two concrete slabs and four mortar pits; a fire trail was cleared and resurfaced; and provision of CE elements in support of other units on the CATA.

The Sqn achieved all set tasks and then proceeded to lend their capabilities and expertise in other Tasks of Opportunity such as supporting 5 CER's construction of a patrol base with material haulage for the Hesco blast walls; laying additional concrete slabs at various firing points; drainage works; road maintenance and defensive works.

During the remainder of 2010 the Sqn will conduct a courses camp, a Battle Preparation Weekend and EX SCORPION PROTECT.