19 August 2011
For immediate release
DCP funded PNGDF recruits pass out
A total of 108 Basic Course Recruits from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) passed out of the Goldie River Training Depot (GRTD) on Friday 19 August 2011.
The recruits under-went a sixteen week course where students were instructed in the basic aspects of soldiering including; drill, field Craft, weapon handling, communications, discipline, leadership and fitness.
The March-out parade, hosted by PNGDF Brigadier General Francis Agwi, was attended by the new Defence Minister Honourable Guma Wau.
In his speech, the Honourable Minister thanked the Australian Defence for assistance given under the Development Cooperation Program (DCP).
Through this assistance, the Australian Government has continued to provide significant support to enable this type of training to continue at GRTD.
Under the DCP, soldiers will be selected for additional training or employed as apprenticeship tradesman.
Approximately 30 will be posted into the Engineer Battalion, Lae after completing another round of employment training aimed at developing the skills of a field engineer. Twenty will be posted to each Infantry Battalion 1 RPIR and 2 RPIR where they also will undergo more initial employment training before being designated as qualified riflemen. The remaining personnel will be consumed into logistic positions or the Navy and Air Transport Wing.
Some may be selected in the future for additional training as officer candidates or employed and sponsored under Australian Sponsorship DCP as apprentice tradesmen.
"Australia is pleased to provide DCP support to assist Brigadier General Agwi's '4R' strategy for implementing PNG Government's MTDP goals for capability rebuilding the PNGDF" said Head of Australian Defence Staff, Colonel Mark Shephard, who attended the march out.
Australia provided K265,000 DCP support in clothing and sporting wear, Barracks maintenance, stationary, fuel and oil, Hire Equip, Field Rations, personal support items (towels, shaving gear, medical training aids, and IT support for instructors to allow the course to occur.