Specialist core receives shiny new equipment upgrade

18 February 2003
iXpress members will soon be better equipped to handle a wider range of kit with the recent acquisition of new messenger bags, backpacks and accessories.

The equipment upgrade is the first since the development and supply of enhanced jackets, helmets and shoes 9 months ago.

The new bags are made from cordura and a rubberised waterproof inner lining a synthetic material designed to minimise water penetration which also provides greater protection from wear and tear. Other features in the bags will provide greater protection for fragile and sensitive cargo, particularly the specialist camera and countersurveillance equipment that is now being used by members in the core divisions.

The new bags enable the traditional single handed operation as well as a single handed "on the fly" adjustment mechanism and a specialised accessories mounting pad to accept a variety of accessory and equipment mounts."The mounting mechanism was a key requirement for our access and countersurveillance members, our members have increased their use of cameras, transcievers, transmitters and climbing equipment. Having ready access to these tools was an important feature to consider in the new equipment."

The iXpress Strategic Planning Division oversees organisational and operational planning, including equipment ordering whilst the four core capability divisions, Transport, Communication, Countersurveillance and Access have specialists in the areas of bicycles, radios, cameras and climbing.

A representative from iXpress Strategic Planning Division said the innovative new equipment, will be distributed to operational members during the 4 to 6 weeks, with deliveries due to arrive in time for those assigned to Operation BAXCON in April.

14 of the new bags have been ordered. They are not intended to fully replace the existing bags that are used by most iXprerss messengers. Locally developed equipment has always been the operational standard for messengers.

"There are still the bread and butter of of Melbourne based messengers and will continue to be used for the majority of jobs."

The improved bags were acquired as a result of ongoing reforms under a review of operational equipment. They feature several changes to the existing bags, but would remain practical for operational messengers.The upgrade comes at a time when iXpress is beginning to deploy in non urban environments.

"Operation BAXCON is a test for the core capabilities of iXpress, whilst the traditional transport role of messengers may not be as practical in a desert environment, counter surveillance and communications will be a key activity for members in the field."

"The underlying consideration with the new kit is to provide a more operationally functional, warmer, and comfortable range for iXpress members," she said.
For further information about the new bags please contact the iXpress Media Unit.