The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has partnered with the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) to deliver specialist training in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Supported by the Vanuatu-Australia Defence Cooperation Program, the three-week program focused on delivering training aligned with VPF priorities. This included leadership development, vehicle maintenance, armourer training, fitness, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) planning, and public affairs and photography skills.
ADF Mobile Training Team Contingent Commander Major Zach Lambert said he was proud of what the ADF and VPF had achieved together during the training. “The training not only provided opportunity for the ADF to share knowledge and skills with our ni-Vanuatu family, but also learn from the VPF, especially their experience in disaster management and response,” Major Lambert said.
A contingent of 22 ADF members, primarily from the Australian Army’s 7th Combat Brigade, formed the Mobile Training Team delivering the training to over 102 members from across the VPF.
Acting Commander Vanuatu Mobile Force Lieutenant Colonel Kalshem Bongran commented that the training was critical to supporting the Vanuatu Mobile Force and broader police force. “This training has assisted in further developing the key skills and knowledge needed, including leadership and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief planning, to deliver key tasks outlined in Vanuatu’s National Security Strategy. This training is also an opportunity for VMF and ADF soldiers to work collaboratively and share their experiences and I am very proud of them,” said Lieutenant Colonel Bongran.
Commander Deployable Joint Force Headquarters Major General Scott Winter said the training activity built on Australia and Vanuatu’s close partnership and friendship. “We continue to work closely with Vanuatu to deepen our strong and long-standing security partnership, promoting our shared interests and connections between our people. Partnered training opportunities like this enhance our ability to work with the VPF on future activities or potential operations in response to natural disasters and complement other key Vanuatu-Australian security initiatives currently underway.” Major General Winter said.
These activities include the Cook and Tiroas Barracks Redevelopment, upgrades to RVS Mala Base Wharf, the Vanuatu Government National Emergency Radio Network and other training opportunities.
