This year continues to be a turbulent one, with the devastation caused by hurricanes in the southern United States echoing the natural disasters so close to our own borders earlier this year. As signalled in the first journal this year, a themed edition will be published in November dedicated to Operation Tsunami/Sumatra Assist, and other recent ADF Operations. It has been particularly difficult, however, sourcing material for this edition, despite the wealth of experience that has been gained from the Operation. Being your journal, I strongly encourage your participation by contributing articles for publication. I have attended a number of regional meetings this year during which there were many interesting and informative presentations given. I urge you to approach your colleagues to submit their work for publication, and perhaps even join the Association if they aren’t already members.
The main theme of this issue is the health effects of conventional weapons. Over the last 14 years, a number of articles have been published which have looked at the physiological effects and management of such weapons. Given the continued operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the ever present terrorist threat, a review of these principles is timely. This is the second themed edition that we have produced, with a previous issue in 2004 looking at chemical, biological and radiological weapons. I wish to express my gratitude to Dr Andy Robertson for taking the lead to coordinate articles for this edition.
I have enjoyed the appointment as editor for the journal this year, which regretfully I will not be continuing as I move from Defence to a different phase of my career.
