Login
iscover
The Australian Army’s 7th Combat Brigade have returned to training at Gallipoli Baracks as Queensland eases COVID-19 restrictions, enabling the unit to train and maintain readiness.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
Due to social distancing measures, major exercises and non-essential training were paused and units were able to conduct home workouts, interactive computer-based training and operational training scenarios from home on rotating rosters.
Commander 7th Combat Brigade Brigadier Jason Blain said it is important for soldiers to stay sharp and maintain their readiness, even during reduced-tempo periods.
"Gallipoli Barracks is home to a number of Army units with diverse capabilities, many of which have recently assisted the community in response to the pandemic. The return to modified training ensures high safety standards are maintained so we can continue supporting the Australian community when called upon," BRIG Blain said.
While continuing to take precautions, the brigade will now increase its on-base training to ensure its soldiers remain mission ready.
BRIG Blain added, "We will ease into training carefully, taking measures to ensure physical distancing and good hygiene is maintained and some members will continue to operate from home.
"Army’s mission is to prepare forces to defend Australia from all threats and we need to make sure we continue to be able to do this."
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas McDermott, Commanding Officer of 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment, echoed the sentiments of BRIG Blain regarding the motivation and commitments of the troops.
LTCOL McDermott explained, "This was challenging for an Armoured Regiment, but the imagination of our officers and soldiers won out and it has been really impressive how they’ve kept their edge, including keeping fit.
"7th Combat Brigade consider ourselves a part of the Queensland community and as soon as it’s right to do so we want to get back out amongst Queenslanders. We’ve really missed the community interactions over the past few months."
