Postcard from Timor Leste

BRIG Baker, MAJ Jason Dyhrberg, and LT COLWade Stothardt watch the start of the ISF display in Timor Leste.  WN08-0065-08

by Major Jason Dyhrberg
Officer Commanding, Kiwi Company

This is my fourth trip to the sunny shores of Timor Leste, and over the years I have certainly become more familiar than most with what is currently the poorest nation in South East Asia.

The New Zealand Defence Force contribution to Timor Leste consists of a Rifle Company, a detachment of Iroquois helicopters, a National Support Element, a National Command Element and a group of liaison officers that work with the United Nations, the local police and the local army.  All up we have more NZDF personnel deployed to Timor Leste than to any other New Zealand mission overseas.

Since gaining independence from Indonesia in 1999, Timor Leste has experienced a host of problems as it comes to terms with its status as the worlds’ newest democracy.  These issues are many and ongoing, thus necessitating the long-term deployment of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) from Australia and New Zealand.

Despite the security situation continually improving over the last few months, there is always something ominous looming on the horizon.  While most of the threats do not eventuate, there is always enough going on to warrant the continued ISF presence as a strong deterrent against trouble.  For most of the New Zealanders here that means several hours a day out on the streets as a continual security presence. 

The temperatures in Dili range from the mid-30s to mid-40s.  For the soldiers out on patrol it is a hot and challenging environment that requires them to both put up with discomfort and boredom, but also remain continually alert to the possibility of that “one ugly moment”.  They do so without complaint and in the highly professional and competent manner that has become synonymous with NZDF soldiers, sailors and airmen serving on operations around the world.

As the Commander of the Rifle Company, I am constantly exposed to the positive feedback and high regard with which the Australians and other nationalities hold the NZDF personnel operating here. Of particular note is our ability to relate to, and gain acceptance from, the local population; something that our Australian counterparts are particularly envious of. On the occasions when I’m asked what the point of difference is my usual response is along the lines of “it’s just Kiwis being Kiwis”.

We have now been in Timor Leste for just on two months and have just over four  months to go.  Our people are working well and, like those that have gone before us, are representing both the NZDF and New Zealand favourably. All of our very best wishes are with our loved ones at home as we are sure theirs are with us.

Onward.