Warm welcome to Singleton
A recent family day at Lone Pine Barracks provided an opportunity for existing Singleton Military Area members, employees, contractors and their families to welcome those newly posted to the area.
CAPTION: Private Jordan Enright, of the School of Infantry, enjoys the Singleton Military Area family day with his daughter. Photos by Corporal Shane Kelly.
The family day, held on January 30, was attended by about 300 people and had a relaxed atmosphere with jumping castles, rock climbing, kids’ entertainment and a barbecue staffed by members of the local branch of Legacy.
The atmosphere was enhanced with entertainment provided by the Australian Army Band – Newcastle.
A display of soldiering skills in a section attack put on by the School of Infantry demonstrated the practical answer to the often difficult question of “What do you do at work?”.
Event organiser Warrant Officer Class 2 Mary-Anne Holland said the day was important as it provided an opportunity to make connections within the local community.
“We hold this event early each year so that newly posted members and their families can make connections quickly and easily with ex-service organisations, supporting agencies within Defence and the community,” Warrant Officer Class 2 Holland said.
“We have a strong sense of looking after each other and each other’s families here within the Singleton Military Area.
“It is important for people to know there are like-minded people around them. It’s an important part to developing a network.”
Commanding Officer School of Infantry Lieutenant Colonel James Smith recognised the importance of social events and engaging with the community to provide a sense of belonging.
“The School of Infantry has a proud tradition of being a part of the fabric of the local community here at Singleton, and events such as this pave the way for that relationship to continue,” Lieutenant Colonel Smith said.
“The welfare of our people and their families is my top priority.
“Having our families well supported and engaged in the local community enables us to focus on training Army’s infantry soldiers and officers.”
CAPTION: Private Bradly Hanssen, of the School of Infantry Training Support Platoon, lays down fire during a demonstration of a section attack at the Singleton Military Area family day.
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