Victorian and Tasmanian soldiers took to the streets of Bendigo in full combat ensemble as part of a 10-day training activity to strengthen the urban operation capabilities of the 4th Brigade.
Held from October 17 to 26 in Puckapunyal and Bendigo, Reserve and full-time personnel on Exercise Arras Walk honed their operational roles in different operating environments.
Commander of the 4th Brigade, Brigadier Michelle McCormack, said the training was vital to prepare soldiers for modern operations.
"Exercise Arras Walk gave our soldiers and officers the opportunity to train small teams and their leaders in complex, dynamic and unfamiliar environments," Brigadier McCormack said.
"Our people must be able to operate confidently in built-up areas, where communication, coordination and precision are critical, and where they are operating within a live community."
The exercise included a range of foundation warfighting activities, including CASEVAC (casualty evacuation) procedures, patrolling residential streets and clearing complex urban terrain such as football club rooms and disused primary school buildings.
'For many of our soldiers, this was the first time working through complex urban scenarios in a real community environment.'
Lieutenant Colonel Paul O'Donnell, Commanding Officer of Security Response Task Unit 8th/7th Battalion, Royal Victoria Regiment, said the exercise provided invaluable experience for the soldiers.
"For many of our soldiers, this was the first time working through complex urban scenarios in a real community environment," Lieutenant Colonel O'Donnell said.
"They learned to adapt their tactics to narrow streets, multi-storey buildings and constantly changing conditions - all while maintaining situational awareness and working as a cohesive team.
"It was also impressive to see how quickly soldiers from different units came together to plan and execute missions."
Brigadier McCormack thanked Bendigo, Victoria Police and local residents for their support.
"Exercises like Arras Walk rely on strong relationships with local partners to ensure training is realistic, safe and beneficial for everyone involved," Brigadier McCormack said.
"We're very grateful for the cooperation shown by the Bendigo community throughout the activity."
Brigadier McCormack said the exercise also highlighted the professionalism and commitment of the Army Reserve members, as well as their families and employers.
"Our reservists bring remarkable dedication to their service," Brigadier McCormack said.
"This training tested their endurance, teamwork and adaptability - qualities that directly contribute to the Army's readiness to respond whenever we're called upon."
