2006 Speeches

Address by TSRA Chairperson

Mr Toshie Kris

Charlie Company, Department of Defence Dinner

25 March, 2006

May I take this opportunity to begin firstly by acknowledging:  

• The traditional owners of this land
• Elders present tonight
• Members of Charlie Company
• Friends and Family

It is a great pleasure to be here tonight to be part of your first gathering for the year and to witnss a member of your team being officially recognised for her services to the army. 

I understand that this initial meeting for the year is to focus on what lies ahead of you in 2006, and to define where and what you want to achieve in the next twelve months. 

What a great coincidence it is tonight that you are here to witness Private Mary Ware receiving the Army’s Silver Commendation. By coincidence I mean, you are here to set your goals for this year, and Private Ware is a great example of what you too can aspire to achieve. 

To Private Ware, congratulations on this outstanding achievement, this is the second most highest award in the army system and I am proud to be here to share this moment with you and your Company. 

To the members of Charlie Company, I also thank you for your dedication and hard work in your role in protecting our shores. I acknowledge the personal sacrifices you all make – spending 70 -100 days per year in training, conducting surveillance activities and strengthening the army’s relationship with our communities. 

Charlie Company is also unique, being the only regiment in Australia where 95% of its force is made up of Torres Strait Islanders – this is an excellent record and testament to the important role community members have in determining their future. 

At the TSRA our vision is to empower our people to determine their own affairs based on our unique Ailan Kastom bilong Torres Strait from which we draw our unity and strength. 

I can see tonight that you too share a similar vision, revealing the Torres Strait Warrior inside of you, to assume the responsibility to work together to keep your people safe. 

Congratulations to you all again for your commitment to the Army and your important roles in maintaining a safe and peaceful Torres Strait. Esso.