White winter for Australian troops in Afghanistan

While Australia swelters in summer, Australian Defence Force (ADF) members serving in Afghanistan are having a taste of winter, with the Reconstruction Task Force 3 Base covered in a thick blanket of snow.

Snow has covered the ground and the vehicles at the base - with more than a few snowmen seen dotted amongst the buildings.

The Reconstruction Task Force 3 is Australia's contribution to the Netherlands-led Provincial Reconstruction Team in Uruzgan Province, and the Dutch troops have joined the Australians in a snowball fight or two to pass the quiet moments.

"It's a bit different from what we've been experiencing the last few months," said Gunner Khyle Ashcroft, who is based with the 4th Field Regiment in Townsville - where it never snows.

"It's been just rain and mud, but obviously it's got a bit colder and the rain's turned to snow."

But, according to Gunner Ashcroft, the snow does not interfere with the ADF's work in the area.

"The boys can still operate in the snow, and do their jobs, so that's good - the weather doesn't affect us," he said.

For the soldiers who are required to leave the base for their jobs, like Gunner Ashcroft, warm clothes and a good sense of humour keeps them going through the winter months.

"I've only been taking my issued warm weather gear with me, and that keeps me toasty warm, so that's all I care about!" said Gunner Ashcroft.

"Like everyone, I tell a few stories from home, a few jokes, have a cold brew and a snowball fight - just keeping the morale up."

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