Timor-Leste soldiers team up with Australian Army

Before leaving the Kimberley after a month’s work with the Australian Army in Lombadina, a group of Timor-Leste soldiers made sure they had pearls to take home to their wives and girlfriends.

The soldiers had teamed up with Australian Army personnel on the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program, which involved construction work at Lombadina Aboriginal Community. Their visit marked the first time Timor-Leste soldiers came to work with the Army on an AACAP.

Since 1997 AACAP has reinforced the strong association between the Australian Army and the indigenous people of northern and central Australia. It is a joint initiative between the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and the Army.

Each project comprises community engagement, construction, health and training. This year marks the 19th AACAP on the Dampier Peninsula, including remote communities Lombadina, Beagle Bay, Djarindjin and Ardyaloon (One Arm Point).

The project started in May and finishes in November. AACAP provides an opportunity for international defence forces to send their troops to Australia to work with Australian Army personnel and build up their skills.

The group was accompanied by Sergeant Charlie Van Der Lit who is based in East Timor.

Australian Army Captain David Ferwerda said the group worked really hard and were dedicated.

Captain Ferwerda said initiatives like AACAP strengthened the relationship between the Australian Army and East Timor-Leste defence force.

“It’s also a good opportunity for soldiers in the Australian Army to get exposure to other defence forces,” he said.

Given the expense of pearls back home in East Timor, the soldiers took advantage of a few days in Broome before they left, purchasing gifts for their families at the markets and other outlets.