New training module bolsters reserve capability

8th Brigade’s Melbourne University Regiment has been training Australia’s newest part-time soldiers through the new Land Combat Module (LCM) this year, improving Army Reserve capability and readiness.

CAPTION: A Melbourne University Regiment part-time soldier detonates an M18A1 Claymore under the supervision of an instructor during the Land Combat Module conducted at Puckapunyal Military Training Area. Story by Captain Rohan Hurst and Captain Andrew Lee. Photos by Captain Rohan Hurst.

The course is the next stage in Army Reserve training for combat corps soldiers after graduation from Kapooka, focusing on developing their marksmanship as well as qualifying them on a range of new weapon systems.

The overall continuum has been streamlined to enable higher trainee output for 2nd (Australian) Division units, with Melbourne University Regiment successfully qualifying hundreds of trainees in 2024.

The accelerated training model also means Army Reserve soldiers spend less time away from their civilian commitments, making it easier to balance their military and civilian lives.

Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Melvyn Wood, Regimental Sergeant Major of Melbourne University Regiment, emphasised the importance of the Land Combat Module.

“The LCM is a crucial stage for Army Reserve soldiers as they consolidate and extend skills learned during Army Initial Foundation Training,” WO1 Wood said.

“It is refreshing to see the spark of enthusiasm in these young soldiers.”

Trainee feedback has been positive, with many appreciating the mature learning environment fostered by the instructors, who are a mix of full-time and part-time non-commissioned officers from the Royal Australian Infantry Corps.

Trainees come from a diverse range of civilian work backgrounds, which enriches the interpersonal experience of the course.

It is also their first opportunity to bond with other soldiers posted to their regional units.

Sergeant Siaosi Paseka, the LCM Course Manager, highlighted the trainees’ diverse civilian backgrounds and positive attitudes.

“It’s been great working with our Army Reserve trainees – they’re keen and have a lot of life experience, which allows us to foster a positive learning environment,” Sergeant Paseka said.

CAPTION: Melbourne University Regiment part-time soldiers after completing the range phase of the Land Combat Module conducted at Puckapunyal Military Training Area.

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