Broome businesses asked to show support for Defence Reserves

Written on the 5 November 2017

Protecting the country, contributing to global humanitarian work, sacrificing holidays and time with family and friends to attend rigorous training sessions and possible deployment.  Such is the sacrifice of our nation's Army Defence Reserves who carefully balance life as a civillian with one of the most important roles in our nation's security.  Alongside the personal sacrifice and commitment of the individual, comes that of the employer whose dedication and understanding is integral to allowing their reservist employee the time and support needed to fulfil their commitments.

The NORFORCE Kimberley Squadron opened their base for Broome's business community at their recent business after hours event with the Chamber.  The event was an impressive showcase of the collaboration between the Defence Force and police, and a reminder of the vital role the they play in our national security.  

At the event Squadron representatives spoke about the importance of the support of local business communities through a 'Defence Reserve Support' campaign.  This campaign is simply an endorsement that "All Australians share responsibility for our national security, including a capable and resilient Australian Defence Force with permanent and reserve components."

"As responsible corporate citizens, we pledge support to our employees/students who serve our nation as Australian Defence Force Reservists, and to provide the leave required for their service obligations."

Operations Manager for Defence Reserves Support NT & Kimberley, Ms Chris Cates said, "We were pleased that Camdons Jewellery, Galwey Pearls and Yeeda signed up as supportive employers at our business after hours with the Chamber.  This means we now have 15 supportive employers in Broome.  

"We are keen to sign up more organisations to show that Broome's business community is one which supports our Defence Reserves.  It costs nothing!  There are no catches, we are simply seeking support from the community with reference to Reserve Service," Said Ms Cates.

Joining the Defence Reserve Support campaign doesn't mean the business does (or intends to) employ Reservists to show support - the campaign merely aims to provide a supportive community that promotes the merits of the Defence Reserves to colleagues.  In return the Defence Force promotes all supporting businesses with a display of their logos on the Defence Reserves Support website and via other mediums across the region's events, including onsite at the NORFORCE Kimberley Squadron base in Broome.

But perhaps most importantly, by signing the Statement of Support, organisations are showing their support for Defence Service and in particular Reserve Service.

"Our Reservists will thank you - whether they work for you now or hope to in the future," Said Ms Cates.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT NOW BY CLICKING HERE AND SIGNING A STATEMENT OF SUPPORT!