The Exercise Director for Talisman Sabre 2019, Commodore Allison Norris, visited Bundaberg today to thank Council, Police and the community for their support.
Commodore Norris is Director General of the Australian Defence Simulation and Training Centre.
The Talisman Sabre series is the principle Australian and US military bilateral training exercise focused on the planning and conduct of mid-intensity “high-end” war fighting.
This involved using Bundaberg Airport and various sites around Bundaberg in July for military operations.
Council assisted with identifying and sourcing suitable locations while Police ensured safe access and civilian security.
Mayor Jack Dempsey thanked the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for choosing Bundaberg for operations.
He said the community was very welcoming and Commodore Norris agreed.
“We're an ideal location for all the armed forces, with a first-rate airport and the northern-most sea port that's not inside the Great Barrier Reef,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Council is working with local small businesses to get them defence ready for opportunities with procurement.”
Commodore Norris said the ADF was grateful for the support shown in Bundaberg.
She said a decision will be made early next year about potential sites for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021.
In 2012, then Captain Norris assumed Command of the supply ship HMAS Success.
During her tenure, Success was lead vessel in the search for the missing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH 370. Success was awarded the Duke of Gloucester for the most proficient Fleet unit in December 2014 and, for her efforts, she was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
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