SINGAPORE – Exciting changes are underway for Singapore soldiers participating in Exercise Wallaby in Australia, as they now have access to a brand new camp designed to enhance their training experience while stationed away from home.

Welcome to Camp Tilpal

Situated just north of Rockhampton in the expanded Shoalwater Bay Training Area of Queensland, this new facility boasts improved accommodations, operational capabilities, and medical services compared to the previously used Camp Growl. One of the most notable upgrades is the widespread wireless internet access provided throughout the camp, a must-have for modern military training.

Construction of Camp Tilpal kicked off in 2019, and after years of planning and development, it was completed in early 2024. With the capacity to house approximately 2,000 soldiers, this state-of-the-art facility will also serve not only the Singapore Armed Forces but also Australian troops and other allied forces.

Thoughtful Design for Local Conditions

Beatrice Kwan, a senior program manager with the Defence Science and Technology Agency, highlighted that the camp's design carefully considers local terrain and weather conditions. Key features such as wind direction and sun exposure are strategically accounted for, ensuring that soldiers are comfortable in the often harsh climate of Shoalwater Bay.

Enhanced Command and Medical Facilities

Another significant addition to Camp Tilpal is the enhanced exercise command room, which enables commanders to efficiently coordinate various units in the field. Major Mullainathan, who oversees training operations, commented on the complexity of Exercise Wallaby, stating, "Our job is to ensure that this complexity does not hinder units from achieving their objectives." The advanced infrastructure now available—including upgraded communications and GPS tracking systems—greatly increases situational awareness and safety, proving crucial during live munitions training exercises.

On top of that, the medical center at Camp Tilpal has been taken up a notch. Captain (Dr) Thaned Ong, a dedicated full-time national serviceman, notes that the new medical facility matches Singapore’s camp standards and is well-equipped to handle urgent medical cases. The medical center features advanced air-conditioning and ventilation systems essential in managing heat-related injuries and other common ailments encountered during training in the arid environment.

Culinary Experience at Camp Tilpal

Camp Tilpal shines not only in operational aspects but also in the culinary department! Its fully-equipped indoor kitchen, run by Sats, can prepare between 500 and 2,000 meals per service, catering to the needs of the entire personnel in two sittings. Unlike the rudimentary open-air kitchens of Camp Growl, this setup promotes improved food safety and comfort.

Junior Sous Chef Beebee Jan Abdul Kadir, who is returning for her sixth exercise posting, plays a vital role in bringing a taste of home to the troops. Famous for her specialty dish, "Wallaby nasi lemak,” she has built connections with the soldiers over the years. "They often greet me with a smile and share how much they look forward to my meals," she recalls, showing that good food remains a morale booster even amid rigorous training.

Conclusion

With these exciting developments at Camp Tilpal, Singapore soldiers are bound to have a significantly enriched, safe, and supportive experience during Exercise Wallaby—an initiative that underscores the importance of international military collaboration and the well-being of personnel stationed abroad. Stay tuned for more updates on their training journey!