THE High Commissioner of the Kingdom of Tonga with residence in Canberra, Australia, His Royal Highness The Crown Prince Tupouto'a-Lavaka and Commander of the Tonga Defence Services (TDS), Brigadier Tau'aika Uta'atu, visited the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programe (AACAP) in Mapoon, Queensland on Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 August. The purpose of this visit was to view construction works conducted by the 10 TDS personnel (including carpenters, plumbers and electricians) assisting the completion of the AACAP vertical construction task. Warrant Officer Class 2 Taniela Songoimoli leads the TDS contingent in Mapoon.

Upon arrival the TDS contingent greeted HRH The High Commissioner and Brigadier 'Uta'atu. A prayer session initiated the meeting. HRH expressed words of encouragement to the TDS contingent, strongly empathizing the importance of grasping as much knowledge and skills whilst under the AACAP for the benefit of their future, their families and the Tonga Defence Services (TDS).

The infrastructure work in Mapoon includes the construction of 3 three-bedroom houses; the upgrade and sealing of a 6km main community road; and the maintenance of the community septic systems. A community health support program evident in the location works to support existing health services, namely in dentistry, veterinary services and environmental health. The final deliverable of AACAP is an employability skill program focusing on trade training; and assists in developing literacy, numeracy, leadership and multimedia skills. On completion, a nationally recognised Construction Certificate will be received by the TDS contingent.

The AACAP offers the opportunity to strengthen relationships between the Australian Army and the TDS through positive international engagement. The TDS contingents are assisted by the Army engineers from the 17th Construction Squadron based in Sydney. Tonga High Commission, 31/08/09.