THE BRIT ABROAD

Exercise Longlook is a tri-service exchange between the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. The aim of the Exercise is to broaden the military experience and knowledge of the individuals selected and to further the interoperability of the three Commonwealth armies.

I was fortunate enough to be selected, and after the flight from hell, landed in Brisbane . I was immediately introduced to the Regtimental hierarchy, and then to a number of Australian beers. This would be a sign of things to come, as the Australians have a very healthy attitude to the consumption of the amber nectar.

I was employed as a Troop Commander of a high profile, quickly deployable Troop known as the Rapid Communications Element or RCE. The equipment is similar to our own, as is the Australian doctrine, the soldiers, and the way the Australasian Defence Forces (ADF) generally go about their business. I deployed on two exercises. The first was a large-scale Combined Arms exercise with the Americans. This gave an interesting insight to the ADF, as I was a foreigner inside the ADF seeing how they work with a foreign nation.

The second was a Regimental Battlecamp. This was good fun, and ran along the same lines as a British Army Battlecamp. The main differences were the consideration of heat and the terrain, which often allowed little if any cover.

Immediately after the Battlecamp, I was sent on a working road trip. I visited Units in Townsville, Darwin and Sydney. Townsville and Darwin were interesting, as I was given the opportunity to see another facet of the ADF, the Armour. I also went on safari to see some kangaroos and crocodiles, and continued my experimentation with the Amber Nectar. Sydney was very interesting, as they have a quite unique Signal Squadron supporting the whole ADF, and I took the opportunity to be a tourist for a week. I also visited Canberra and the impressive War Memorial, and Duntroon. After the three-week road trip, we were given two weeks leave for our own exploration. Being a man of culture, I swiftly visited Dreamworld, the Big Brother house, Australia Zoo, the Sunshine Coast and Surfers' Paradise . I also visited my long-lost relatives in Adelaide , and went to watch a game of Australian Rules Football. I jinxed all teams that I have chosen to follow out there. Brisbane Broncos failed in the NRL, Queensland lost the State of Origin , and Brisbane Lions are about as competent at AFL as I am. At least I was out here to watch England win the Ashes, which was almost the highlight of the Trip.

It is difficult to pin point one singular event that I have enjoyed above all others during EXERCISE LONG LOOK. I have definitely benefited from the exchange professionally, and I have also made some good friends; it was undoubtedly the experience of a lifetime. The ADF are excellent; it was an absolute pleasure to serve out there and, at the same time, to take the opportunity to see the majority of Australia .