From spreadsheets in the tropics to tracking personnel across remote locations, Private Erin Paech is a long way from her usual desk in Amberley - but right where she needs to be.
Currently deployed to East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, she's supporting Operation Render Safe - an Australian-led international mission to locate and safely dispose of unexploded ordnance left behind from World War 2.
As a clerk in the Australian Army, Private Paech is part of the team that keeps the operation running behind the scenes - managing personnel records, coordinating administration and tracking movement across the mission.
"I spend a lot of time tracking where people are, making sure they're accounted for and where they need to be," Private Paech said.
While she's not out in the field clearing ordnance, her work directly supports those who are - ensuring they have the information and resources they need to do their jobs safely and efficiently.
It's the kind of quiet work that keeps the operation moving.
'Admin is key - without it, the mission can't function.'
"I'm behind the scenes, but what I do helps keep the operation going," Private Paech said.
"Admin is key - without it, the mission can't function."
One of the highlights of her deployment was a community engagement day at a local school, where she boarded a helicopter departing from the school oval.
"It was such a unique experience," Private Paech said.
"Lifting off with all the students watching and waving was something I'll never forget - definitely a highlight."
This is Private Paech's first overseas deployment and an opportunity to gain operational experience in her trade.
"It's been good to do my job in a new environment," she said.
"You get to see how all the different roles come together in an operation like this - and how important each one is."
Operation Render Safe comprises personnel from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the United Kingdom and the United States.
"We all play a part," Private Paech said.
"Even if it's behind the scenes, it matters. I'm here to do my job - and help make sure the rest of the mission can too."
