3 RAR to be deployed as part of COVID-19 response

About 700 troops are ready to be deployed to New South Wales and Victoria to assist with the country’s COVID-19 response.

Australian Army Private Joshua Cass from the 3rd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, during a brief at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, prior to their deployment on Op COVID-19 Assist.

Close to 700 troops are ready to be deployed to New South Wales and Victoria to assist with the country’s COVID-19 response.

Troops from 3 RAR will be on rotation in Australia’s southern states in coming months as part of the Australian Defence Force’s Operation COVID-19 Assist.

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Troops from the Australian Army’s 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, based in Townsville, will rotate through Victoria, New South Wales and any other state that needs help.

Commander of 3rd Brigade Brigadier Kahlil Fegan said troops were prepared and ready to deploy.

“The 3rd Battalion has prepared this first group who will replace those troops from the 1st and 7th brigades over the coming months,” he said.

Contingent Commander and Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Kearns, addresses soldiers at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, prior to their deployment on Op COVID-19 Assist.

“However I do anticipate we may need to replace those troops in time and the brigade is fully prepared to provide whatever support that is required.”

Federal Herbert MP Phillip Thompson said ADF personnel support people and put themselves at risk through cyclones, floods, fires and on overseas operations. “The nation has called on them again for their help and support and they are putting themselves at risk to support the Victorian government,” he said.

Commanding Officer of 3 RAR Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Kearns will lead the contingent.

“We are prepared, enthusiastic and excited to support our country when and how it needs us.”

Originally published as 3 RAR to be deployed as part of COVID-19 response