AIR Force chefs are taking training out of the frying pan and into the firing range, attending bi-weekly weapons sessions to beef up their combat preparedness at RAAF Base Amberley.
When 23 Squadron catering officer Flying Officer Dale Shepherd surveyed his chefs to see what could make their jobs more appealing, a lack of military training was a common thread.
Flying Officer Shepherd developed a force generation training program to implement a two-hour session every Tuesday and Thursday for chefs to go to the Weapon Training Simulation System to conduct combat shooting.
Initially there was hesitation from chefs who saw it as another task added to an already busy schedule, but the program’s uptake has been exceptional.
To ensure availability for the sessions, breakfast on training days has changed to an extended continental menu, which requires fewer chefs to manage.
Leading Aircraftwoman Chantel Munro started training from the first session, because whenever her weapon proficiency test would come around, she had to relearn handling and shooting drills.
“Our instructor, Sergeant Trew, has been fabulous, running through the weapons handling test to enforce correct procedure and teaching us extra skills that I suppose we weren’t really taught,” Ms Munro said.
“I feel much more confident with handling the weapon and the drills. Getting to shoot alongside our chain of command as well has really helped communication between leadership and us.”
For Leading Aircraftman Jack Wright, the sessions he has attended have been the highlight of his year.
Flying Officer Shepherd issued an ongoing challenge to his chefs: a can of soft drink on the boss for whoever can out-shoot him.
So far only one person has claimed the prize, Warrant Officer Kyle Mitchell, but others are catching up fast.
After three weeks of practice, nearly 60 per cent of participants were shooting over 130 points consistently.
