// Practice Makes Perfect
- Inaugural Combined Air Movements Training Day
By CPL Pierce Brown, ESS Air Movements, Whenuapai
Correct chaining technique
Tuesday 7 July saw personnel made up of No. 40 Squadron Loadmasters and Supply Specialists—both from the Material Support Wing and Expeditionary Support Squadron (ESS)—gathering for the inaugural combined Air Movements Training Day held at RNZAF Base Auckland. The event provided an opportunity to practise uncommon procedures (like dealing with aircraft pallets and loading the C-130), as well as to ensure continuity amongst those involved, encouraging teamwork and enabling greater efficiency. It also provided an opening for those less inclined to ‘step up’ and take the lead during the different tasks.
Various simultaneous scenarios were held. Teams rotated through round-robin style activities, including correctly netting a two-pallet marriage and how to safely unload a T-56 engine with no motorised mechanical handling equipment. A barbeque lunch break at noon left everyone well prepared for the afternoon’s exercises, which culminated in loading a 20ft container into a Hercules cargo compartment.
By all accounts the day was a resounding success and was enjoyed by all involved, not only as a chance to skill up but also as a break from the norm. Kudos to those who organised it and thank you to those who took part—hopefully it will be the first of many more to come.