Territorian ADF reservists receive Prince of Wales Award, $10,000

At a ceremony at Government House, a pair of ADF reservists received prestigious awardS and a financial boost. See why they’ve been recognised.

Administrator of the Northern Territory, His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM presents The Prince of Wales Award to Lieutenant Jacqueline Martin during a ceremony held at Government House, Darwin, NT. *** Local Caption *** The Prince of Wales Award (POWA) provides the opportunity for selected reservists to undertake a training or development activity, which is directly related to and benefits their civilian occupation or profession. Excitingly, with this being the 40th year of the awards, we are celebrating the longstanding history by including some of our former alumni recipients in the celebrations this year. The Prince of Wales Award ceremony is a formal event held at Government House. There are two 2024 recipients to be awarded with their Employer. The recipient will also have their CO and personal guest in attendance. The two award recipients are Sergeant Pamela Dillon and Lieutenant Jacqueline Martin. Air Commodore Grant Pinder will be representing Reserve Cadet Support Division, there will also be other NT senior service representatives and POWA alumni.

A pair of Territorian Defence reservists have received $10,000 and a prestigious award each in recognition of their dedication and commitment to service.

Sergeant Pam Dillon and Lieutenant Jacqueline Martin were each awarded the Prince of Wales Award at a ceremony at Government House in Darwin.

Further, both soldiers received $10,000 aimed to cover the cost of professional development that would benefit their civilian employment.

Administrator of the Northern Territory, His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM presents The Prince of Wales Award to Sergeant Pamela Dillon. Picture: Supplied.

Sergeant Dillon, who works for the School of Sport Education, said she would use the funds to attend a three-day instructor program, a professional development workshop and a visit to the Pacific Institute of Sport Education.

“The Prince of Wales Award provides an opportunity for me to gain valuable experiences networking with other professionals and learning teaching strategies,” Sgt Dillon said.

Lieutenant Martin, who works for NT Health, said she would use the extra cash to complete a Masters in Clinical Pharmacy.

“It’s great to recognise my employer for her support of my project and the ongoing support for my Defence service,” she said.

Recipients with Administrator of the Northern Territory, His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM, his partner Ms Ruth Jones and Air Commodore Grant Pinder at Government House. Picture: Supplied.

Head of Reserve and Cadet Support Division Major General Douglas Laidlaw said civilian employers had contributed to the defence of Australia by releasing their members for duty.

“The Australian Defence Force (ADF) brings together a diverse group of people with unique and transferable skill sets,” he said.

“The support from civilian employers enables our ADF Reserves to continue to deliver capability to and protect Australia and its national interests.”

Major General Laidlaw said the $10,000 fund would benefit the military and civilian workforces alike.

“This award scheme is one way Defence invests in not only reservists, but also in the mutually beneficial relationship between reservists, Defence and civilian employers,” he said.

“Our people are fundamental to all we can and must achieve, and an essential part of all capability and missions.”

Originally published as Territorian ADF reservists receive Prince of Wales Award, $10,000