‘Not part of COVID-19 response’: Australian Defence Force includes Geraldton in WA training exercise

Australian Defence Force personnel are carrying out training in Geraldton as part of a month-long exercise in WA. Defence Media confirmed today that personnel were undertaking a range of exercises in Geraldton to ensure “capabilities and skilsets remain current and operationally effective with law enforcement partners”. It would not provide further information “in order to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures”. A statement on the Army website outlines military training in WA from mid-August to mid-September in the Perth, Jarrahdale State Forest and Hawke National Park areas. It says training will be conducted day and night and the public should not be alarmed if they see or hear military vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance systems and military personnel carrying weapons. “Blank and paint ammunition will be used during some aspects of the training,” the statement says. “People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat. “This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. It is not a part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. “The training is being conducted in a manner that accounts for COVID-19 restrictions and good health management processes.”