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PNG-born ADF soldier uses own skills to breaks Language Barrier

HER language skills were put to good use for Operation Hannah, the Australian Defence Force’s contribution to the National Election.

She is Papua New Guinea-born Private Laurelliza Morea, 23, who has already achieved one of her long-held goals since joining the Australian Army.

Normally, Pte Morea assists in maintaining communications equipment for a Signals Regiment. She was sent back to her homeland to work as a translator, helping to overcome language barriers.

“I was so happy I was able to go back, I’ve always wanted to do this job,” she said.

Operation Hannah formed part of the DFAT-led, whole of Australian Government effort to support the National Election process.

About 200 ADF personnel were deployed, along with Australian Army MRH90 helicopters and Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Hercules, B300 King Airs and C-27J Spartan aircraft.

They helped deliver 100 thousand pounds of election materials and transport approximately 200 PNG security personnel around the country.

Pte Morea grew up in PNG before moving to Brisbane at age 12 with her parents.

Operation Hannah was her first deployment with the ADF and her linguistic skills were regularly drawn upon, including translating safety briefings to Papua New Guinea Defence Force security personnel before they boarded Australian Army MRH90 helicopters for deployment across the country.

Pte Morea said the deployment was the highlight of her career, building on top of some previous amazing experiences since joining the Australian Army in 2014.

“I’ve been lucky, last year I went to Tasmania and to Cradle Mountain for Adventure Training,” she said.

“That was very challenging, it snowed and I’d never seen snow in my life!”

The former Wavell State High School student is a keen sports enthusiast, playing volleyball, touch football and rugby union for ADF sporting teams.

“The ADF is a great opportunity; make sure you make use of all the opportunities you get.”
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