General News
7 July, 2025
‘True Grit’ real measure of soldiers’ toughness
SOLDIERS from Australia and abroad have come together at the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Tully Training Area to be put to the test in both endurance and teamwork, as well as combat readiness as part of Regional Warfighter Exercise True Grit.
A key opportunity for the ADF to train with Australia’s allies and regional partners, the exercises provided operationally meaningful and tactically effective contributions to the collective security of Australia’s near the region.
Part of Army’s Advanced Collective Training program, the exercises sought to continually develop the Australian Army, partnering with regional allies and partners.
Serving as the conclusion to the ADF’s Regional Warfighter Exercise, Tully Training Area involved soldiers undertaking a 5km pack march, 3.2km battle run, jungle obstacle course, bayonet assault course, blindfolded weapon assembly, stretcher carry and stores carries up steep terrain.
Defence regional North Queensland public affairs manager Ken Wilson said the exercises were beneficial both for soldier development as well as diplomatic relations.
“Exercise True Grit is the final culminating activity of Regional Warfighter Exercise, testing soldiers’ endurance, teamwork and combat readiness in the harsh Tully environment,” Mr Wilson said.
“Designed to replicate combat stress and fatigue, the activity ensures soldiers are physically and mentally prepared to fight in challenging locations.”
