Australian Defence Force Complete Indonesian Earthquake Mission

Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel assigned to Operation Padang Assist will return home this weekend one month after an earthquake devastated the Indonesian region of Padang-Pariaman, ending their contribution to Australia’s relief and reconstruction efforts in West Sumatra.

The last elements of the ADF’s Joint Task Force will depart Indonesia for Australia on the 2nd November, following the closure of the Australian Army Primary Health Care Facility and its official handover to the local health authorities, and the completion of all reconstruction tasks.

Among the many tasks achieved by the Australian contingent; 1.3 million litres of water were produced and distributed, 1300 patients were treated in a purpose built medical facility in the village of Seigerringing, 63 buildings were assessed for structural integrity and over 532.4 metric tons of humanitarian aid was flown into the region.

The Commander of the Indonesian Earthquake Relief Effort, Major General Tanjung, praised the Australians for their dedication to the relief effort in support of the Indonesian Defence Force (TNI).

“Your performance was outstanding to finish your mission in such a short time, we look forward to more opportunities to work together in the future,” Major General Tanjung said.

Joint Task Force Commander Colonel Mark Brewer is proud of the performance of his personnel during the operation.

“To see the Australian and Indonesian soldiers working side by side, forging friendships in the aftermath of a natural disaster, will be an enduring feature of this mission.”

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, said through working closely together in the aftermath of the 30th September earthquake, the Australians and Indonesians had strengthened the friendship between the two nations.

“I commend all the ADF men and women who contributed to Operation PADANG ASSIST. Your efforts contributed towards saving countless lives, establishing medical clinics, clearing landslides and repairing vital infrastructure,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

While ADF operations in West Sumatra are now complete, Australia will continue to support the province through provision of up to A$10 million to help rebuild schools and public health facilities, working in partnership with the Indonesian government and local communities.

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Toby Lendon, Manager Public Affairs, 0811 187 3175