Shire of Derby/West Kimberley, Media Release, 16 July 2024

Leaders from multiple agencies across the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley met with senior Australian Army personnel today [16 July 2024] ahead of a major local training exercise.

The ADF’s Exercise Austral Shield kicks off over the coming days and will see hundreds of soldiers and their armoured and heavy vehicles moving around town for the next week as they fight a fictitious enemy role-played by other Army soldiers.

Shire President Peter McCumstie said Exercise Austral Shield will give members of the community an exciting chance to see the Army in action.

“We’re very excited to have the Army in town, and they have not only brought hundreds of soldiers, but also so much equipment that many locals would never have seen before,” Peter McCumstie said.

“We reassure everybody that there is no real threat around town and that this is a training activity for the Army, however everyone should be aware that enemy role players will be involved.

“Today’s meeting with Army representatives was a really valuable opportunity to hear first-hand about the importance of this activity and also to meet face-to-face with those who may one day help keep us safe.”

Many of the soldiers involved will reside at RAAF Base Curtin for the duration of the activity, while others will patrol around the shire, sleeping under the stars.

Commanding Officer of the Army contingent, Lieutenant Colonel Lachlan Bromley, thanked members of the shire for hosting his troops.

“Activities like these are so critical to the preparedness of our soldiers, and they wouldn’t be possible without the support and warm hospitality afforded to us by the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley,” LTCOL Bromley said.

“We are here to conduct serious training and the local community will play a very important role in the success of our mission.

“Safety is our top priority at all times. If you see military activity around town, don’t be alarmed but please be mindful of safety and adhere to police direction.”