Gibraltar: Cultural Services Paint & Brew Workshop 14th July

Gibraltar Cultural Services have announced an art workshop activity:

Slow down, sip, and get creative. Treat yourself to a relaxing morning of coffee, cake and canvas at our Paint & Brew Workshop. Whether you're picking up a paintbrush for the first time or already love to create, this guided session is perfect for all abilities.

• Tuesday 14th July
• 10:30am – 12:00pm
• GEMA Art Gallery
• £10
• Spaces are limited, so book your place today - website address on the poster.

BRUNEI: BFPO - General Accounting Rate (GAR) for July 2026 and Temporary Closure

Opening Hours:

Monday - Wednesday

08:00 - 12:00

Thursday

10:30 - 14:00

Friday

08:00 - 12:00

Unit's Post Orderly Mail collection and drop-off

Monday - Wednesday

08:30 - 11:30

Thursday

10:45 - 13:30

Friday

08:30 - 11:30

Exchange Rate:

July - £1.00 = $1.7205

NOTICES 

Temporary Closure

1. The Post Office will be closed on Monday 13th of July. This is due to a Kings Messenger delivery.

We appreciate your understanding in this situation.

2. The Post Office located in Chit Chat Community Centre will be closed from Thursday 16th to Friday 17th July in support of EX GST JUNGLE SAFARI 26.

COMD BFB DIRECTION ON THE BFPO SERVICE

The use of the British Forces Post Office by SP across the globe is a huge privilege. Changes in the UK’s trading and customs regulations over recent years have created uncertainty around what constitutes acceptable fair use of the system.

Here in Brunei, we have a very limited capacity per week to send consignments via BFPO, and recent inspections have shown that up to half of this allocation has been used for dried goods. This has drawn attention at BFPO HQ, where similar patterns in other regions have triggered intervention from HMRC and resulted in permanent reduced allowances and referral to the Customs Compliance Team. I want to avoid that happening here. Particularly over the unit move, we must protect and prioritise access to the BFPO service, something that remains a privilege, not a right.

In line with guidance from BFPO HQ, I have temporarily suspended the consignment of dried goods via BFPO 11 to prevent excessive gifting and avoid triggering customs scrutiny. I recognise that sending gifts is a valued tradition in our community, but until the move is complete, I ask that you consider more appropriate alternatives to safeguard the system for all.

We kindly ask all customers to treat our Post Office staff with courtesy and respect. If you have any concerns or queries, please direct them to the SO3 Logistic Support, Capt Dan Knott RLC.

Proof of ID Card

With immediate effect, BFB personnel who wish to send a parcel through the British Forces Post Office MUST present a valid ID Card at the counter. The name on the ID must correspond exactly with the senders name stated on the Customs Declaration Form. Unfortunately, parcels will not be accepted for dispatch without valid identification.

Restricted items in the mail (BFPO 11 Service)

1. Sold goods. Commercial postage of clothing, apparels and services for personal gain through the BFPO is strictly prohibited.

2. Any misuse of BFPO services, such as using them for personal business purposes, constitutes an abuse of resources and is subject to disciplinary action. Misuse compromises the integrity and efficiency of services intended to support BFB’s Directives.

Prohibited items

The Following items are not to be sent via the BFPO mail system, for further advice, please contact the Post Office located in the Chit Chat Community Centre.

Compressed gases – butane, oxygen, propane, camping gas cylinders, gas lighter refills, aqua lungs, aerosol (including medicinal and toilet articles including aerosols such as hairsprays, perfumes, shaving foams, medicines, drugs and nail varnish.

Corrosive – acids, alkaline, wet-cell batteries, Bluetooth speakers, power banks and remote controllers vinegar, photographic chemicals, mercury or any items containing mercury.

Infectious substances – bacteria, viruses, medical and pathological specimens, except under the IPBS rules

Oxidising materials – bleaching agent, peroxides and chlorate

Poison – Arsenic, Cyanides, insecticides and weed killers.

Explosives - fireworks, sparklers, flares, toy caps and ammunition

Perishable foods - Dried Fish of any kind, Dairy Products of any kind, Any perishable food items.

Weapons - Knives, Khukuris, Ninja throwing stars (any sharp instruments are not to be sent via the post).

For more information visit: www.gov.uk/bfpo

International Driving Permits (IDPs)

International Driving Permits (IDPs) can be issued from the Post office at no cost to authorised BFB personnel and families.

Please note the following:

The validity periods of IDPs remain extant, only request, as required.

A passport sized photo and valid driving license is required for IDP issuance.

More information about IDPs can be found at https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/get-an-idp, https://internationaldrivingpermit.org/what-is-an-idp/ or on the Royal Mail website.

Forces Post Office (FPO) Chip & Pin Service

Customers are reminded of the upper limit when withdrawing or depositing cash at the PO is the local equivalent of £250 per day, and a maximum limit of £1000.00 per month respectively. This cash limit also applies to MoneyGram services.

Please do not approach the counter staff requesting more than the afore stated amounts. If you require a larger withdrawal, you must first seek permission from SO3 Log Sp or the DCOS, through your CoC if appropriate, in the first instance. Also, a 5 days’ notice must be given in order to ensure enough cash is available at the counter.

Post Office Ration Card 2025/26

QR Code for Post Office Ration Card 2025/26 Renewal

Please be advised, the issuance of the 2025/26 cash transaction cards is through a request system.

Please click HERE for the link or scan the QR code below is the mode of requesting new cards.

Upon submission a message will be displayed, indicating the date for collection.

Address Format for Service Personnel/ Garrison Support Personnel:

Service/Staff number, Title/Rank, Full Name
Unit (1 or 2 RGR, HQ Brunei Garrison, BFB)
Sub Unit (HQ, A, B, C Coy/Department)
Tuker/Medicina Lines
BFPO 11 or BF1 3AG

Address Format for Families:

Title, Full Name
(C/O) Service/Staff number, Title/Rank, Full Name
Unit (1 or 2 RGR, HQ Brunei Garrison, BFB)
Sub Unit (HQ, A, B, C Coy/Department)
Tuker/Medicina Lines
BFPO 11 or BF1 3AG

BFPO Price/Size Guide

Please click the image to enlarge.

Postage requirements

When customers come to the Post Office with parcels to send, please make sure the items are already correctly addressed and securely sealed.

When Posting Parcels please ensure they are clearly addressed properly and within the dimensions of Depth (460mm) x Length (610mm) x Width (460mm) and no heavier than 20Kg.

Use of BFPO to Operate a Business

‘Customers who are operating a business overseas for personal gain, are not authorised to use the BFPO facilities to forward or receive mail items connected with that business. The MOD pays for the transportation of mail to and from overseas by air or surface means. To allow customers to use the BFPO to operate a business for personal gain would constitute an abuse of public funds.

Individuals, who are authorised or choose to operate businesses overseas, are advised to use local civilian post offices to receive or send goods connected with their business, whereby full international rates of postage will be paid.

Should a violation of this Guidance & Direction be suspected, the Chain of Command will be notified and disciplinary action may be taken against offenders’.

Contact information:

For general BFPO enquiries please use the following information

Email: bfpoenquiries@gmail.com

For BFPO mail tracking/ issues, please contact service desk

Email : desbfpo-enquiries@mod.gov.uk
Tel Military: 94676 3450

Tel Civil: +44 (0)345 769 7978 (calls are charged at local rate in the UK)
Alternative: +44 (0)20 8589 3450

Post Office, Chit Chat Community Centre:

Email: BruneiGar-HQ-Post-SNCO
Christopher.Locke173@mod.gov.uk

Phone – (+673) 3224101 ext. 3218

Duty mobile – (+673) 9330239

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE. 

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support Activities - What's On in BFB...

NOTICE 

Please note there will be *NO* Parents and Toddlers and Youth Clubs from 13th to 17th July 2026.

AWS CS Monthly Calendar

Please click the images to enlarge.

Week Activities

Senior Club - Temporarily Closed

Due to non-attendance, the AWS-CS senior club for the school year 7-8 is temporarily closed until further notice.

BRUNEI: Blood Donation Drive - Saturday, 11th July 2026, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm @ McDonald's Seria

Blood Donation Drive – Your Support is Needed! 🩸

A Blood Donation Drive will be held at McDonald's Seria, and everyone is warmly encouraged to participate.

Every donation counts and contributes to ensuring that adequate blood stocks are available for emergencies and medical treatments.

📍 Venue: McDonald's Seria
🩸 Event: Blood Donation Drive
🤝 Who Can Participate: All eligible donors are welcome

Please come along and support this worthy cause. Together, we can help save lives and strengthen our community's healthcare support.

Donate blood. Save lives. ❤️

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: PCMF Closure

Please be advised that PCMF will be closed on 15 July 2026.

Should you require urgent assistance, please contact the Duty Nurse On Call. Kindly disregard my previous email and accept my apologies for any confusion caused.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: DIO(B) - Planned Proposed MT Vehicle Carpark Shed and J16/001 Play Equipment Out of Service

Planned Proposed MT Vehicle Carpark Shed

As per planned and agreed of new built of MT Carpark Shed project for this FY 26/27 CIDP, DIO(B) contractor will start work at location identify below from next week for the mobilisation works.

For safety reason, please avoid entering and parking surround the construction site at all times. During working hours, the surrounding area may experience increased noise level, loading and unloading activities, and restricted access due to safety measures.

If you have any concerns or issues related to the works, including health and safety matters, please contact the DIO(B) Helpdesk as you first point of contact.

Mon – Sat: 0800 – 1700

Start mobilisation date: 10 July 2026

Target completion date: 10 Nov 2026

NOTICE- J16/001 PLAY EQUIPMENT OUT OF SERVICE

This play equipment at J16/01 has been barricaded due to safety concerns and is not safe for use.

Do not remove, move, or tamper with the barricades. Parents and guardians are advised to ensure their children not to enter the restricted area.

Management will not be responsible for any injuries resulting from unauthorised use of the barricaded equipment.

Thank you for your cooperation and apologies for any inconvenience it may have caused.

DIO Scheduled Work

DIO contractors will be carrying out inspection works as shown in the table below. Utilities may be affected during the work, but DIO contractors will try to minimise disruption.

Water tank cleaning that was previously planned for X1 Flat 620/61 on 23 June 2026 and 24 June 2026 have been postponed to 6 July 2026 to 8 July 2026 due to unseen circumstances.

Apologies for any inconvenience it may have caused.

DIO Scheduled Work for July

DIO contractors will be carrying out inspection works as shown in the table below. Utilities may be affected during the work, but DIO contractors will try to minimise disruption.
To reschedule, please kindly contact DIO(B) Helpdesk either via phone Calls Ext.3375 or 3224130 or Email: BRUNEIGAR-DIO-HelpDesk@mod.gov.uk during office hours.

Inappropriate Contractor Behaviour

DIO Brunei have been made aware of inappropriate contractor behaviour across the BFB estate. It has been reported (and proven) that on completion of works/tasks, some occupants are being pressured to change the completion date to improve Key Performance Indicators. This behaviour by the contractor is unacceptable. DIO have reprimanded the contractors for this behaviour.

Please report any further instances to the DIO Brunei WSM:

WO1 David Passarelli RE MAPM

Works Services Manager & Works Contracts Officer

DIO (Brunei)

Email: David.Passarelli572@mod.gov.uk

Your cooperation with the above request is greatly appreciated

Hornbill School Access Road Work commence announcement

Pleased be informed that construction works will be carried out in the vicinity of H16 Spg 121.

Scope of works

• Excavation and removal of existing road surface in front of house H16/42A&B, 43A&B,89A&B and 88A&B as indicated in Figure 1 below.
• Extension of laybys

Figure 1

Work Schedule

• Mobilisation Works: Commencing on 1st July 2026
• Excavation commencing on 16th July 2026

Expected Disruptions During Construction

1. Road Access Disruptions

• Temporary road closures and traffic diversions will be implemented
• Access to certain areas may be restricted during excavation and road works

2. Noise disturbance

• Residence in the surrounding area may experience increase noise levels due to hacking, excavation, and other construction activities.

3. Heavy machineries operation

• Loading and unloading of materials will be carried out periodically throughout the construction period.

4. Temporary parking and pedestrian access

• Temporary parking spaces and pedestrian walkways will be designated and made available for residents of the affected houses.

5. Safety measures

• Safety barricades, warning signs, and directional signage will be installed around the work area throughout the construction period.

Apologies for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience as these improvement works are carried out.

We appreciate your understanding. For any enquiries, please reach out to the DIO(B) Helpdesk.

Phone Number: 3224130 or military ext 3375
Email: BRUNEIGAR-DIO-HelpDesk@mod.gov.uk or DIORDOSTrg-BruHelpdesk@mod.uk


DIO(B) SCHEDULED WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING AND CHLORINE TESTING.

1. In Order to Comply with the UK standard, DIO contractor Marsee will be carrying out the scope of works as shown below:

a. Check temperature reading of hot and cold water at the very sentinal point.

b. Check chlorine level in water using site test kit.

c. Visual check and small adjustment of water heater.

d. To record water analysis

e. Duration of work will take 10mins to 15mins.

Planned renovation works at H16 Building 1, 2, 7, and 8

As per agreed renovation or refurbishment programme, DIO(B) contractor will start work at H16 Building 1, 2, 7, and 8 for 6 month from next week for the mobilisation works.

For safety reason, please avoid entering and parking surround the construction site at all times. During working hours, the surrounding area may experience increased noise level, loading and unloading activities, and restricted access due to safety measures. All road access to PCMS, accommodation areas, and the thrift shop will remain available. However, all road users are advised to exercise caution at all times when using these routes.

If you have any concerns or issues related to the works, including health and safety matters, please contact the DIO(B) Helpdesk as you first point of contact.

• Mon – Sat: 0800 – 1700
• Start mobilisation date: 13 June 2026
• Start construction works: 1 July 2026
• Target completion date: End of Jan 2027

Cessation of the Service Police Confidential Crime Line

The Service Police Confidential Crimeline (0800 085 0658) has been permanently disconnected and will not be replaced. As a part of Defence switch to digital communications all analogue telephone lines in the host location, including the Confidential Crimeline, have been disconnected. HQ PM(A) have therefore decided to retire the Service Police Confidential Crimeline.
Crimes can still be reported through any of the following telephone helplines:

Germany: Guide for the Weekend

With a World Cup quarter final  the focus of many family weekends for non football lovers, two days of good weather offers a great chance to get out and see some more of Germany.  

This week we have a mini focus on Hannover with a Schutzenfest and Lake festival to enjoy.

Sennelager HIVE will be closed next week. The Community support Team are on hand to help with any questions whilst HIVE is away. 

In this update we have included events all the way through July. 

Garrison Notes

• World Cup -The Senne Arms opens 4pm to 1am for the Eng v Nor the “Row vs the Roar". The Bar closes strictly at 1am and the facility will remain open if Extra time and Pens are required.
• Open air Cinema and the World Cup final from BFBS on the 18th July.
• Coach trip to Osnabruck Zoo is cancelled and will be moved to another date which will be shared.
• Last Paint and Sip event before Kellie takes a well-deserved summer break will be on the 24th Book now as places will go fast.
• The Last Places for Leeds Rhinos activity week and the AWS summer provision €50 per child per event. Contact Rachel in Brydon House to book.
• Raccoon traps  have been placed across the estate please do not feed them they do carry parasites harmful to domestic animals and potentially for humans also.

Other Events

Schutzenfest in Paderborn this weekend. The full list of events and tickets to paid events can be found on the website.

Schutzenfest Hannover and massive funfair until the 12th In Hannover. 497th anniversary.

90s Outdoor fest at Schloss Neuhaus – Lou Bega, Rednex and more play the chart soundtrack of the 90s tickets available online at €55 pp Sat 18th July.

School Holiday Party at the outdoor pool in Bad Wunerburg A Free entry event for the kids. Music and games will be laid on with food and drink available to buy on site. Drive Time is approx 30 mins.

School Holiday Water Fun At the Rietberg Gartenschau 

(Head to the large slide in the North Section of the park 30 mins drivetime)

Every day until and including Sunday, August 30th, the water attractions will be set up near the large slide tower. From 12 pm to 7 pm, kids can ride the waterslide, get splashed on various bouncy castles, zoom from the mouth of the totally harmless shark directly into the pool, take a spin in small electric boats, or balance in giant water balls. The equipment is suitable for children aged 3 and up; parents are responsible for their children

©Rietberg Garten Schau

For the rest of July 

Libori starts on the 25th July in Paderborn with the raising of the Golden shrine at the Dom. The shrine is then processed through the city to mark the opening of the Libori celebrations. Later the same day  paraded through the city while the mayor will tap the Giant keg.

© BESIM MAZHIQI

Machseefest in Hannover the giant food and music festival starts in Hannover. Around the city lake pop up bars and restaurants offer delicious food and drink. Boat taxis ferry the guests between the lake shores. Runs 22nd Jul to 9th Aug. Visit the website for full details.

Hannover offers UK travelers the perfect city break, seamlessly blending rich history with vibrant urban culture. Deep ties to the British Crown through the 1714 Act of Settlement, you can walk in the footsteps of George I at the Herrenhausen Gardens, a Baroque masterpiece rivaling Versailles. 

Explore the red-brick Gothic architecture of the Old Town, follow the "Red Thread" walking tour to the striking New Town Hall, or relax by the sprawling Maschsee lake. Accessible, green, and packed with royal heritage, Hannover is Germany’s best-kept secret.

NAPLES: For the Jazz lovers

 

An opportunity not to be missed.

When: 30 July 2026

Time: 21.15

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 08 July 2026

Welcome to Housing Matters Podcast

DIO are excited to launch Housing Matters, our new podcast created for military families. This podcast lifts the lid on military housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their families.

Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and DIO Operations Manager South, Sebastian O’Hara, will be joined by special guests each week sharing their unique perspectives, experiences and expertise on all things military housing.

In episode one, we take a closer look at what the Defence Housing Strategy really means for those living in SFA. Our guests are DIO Chief Operating Officer, David Brewer, who played a key role in the development of the Strategy, and Chris Keen, a military spouse who has lived in 11 different SFA properties. The discussion goes beyond the headlines to explore the investment, ambition and real-world impact behind the Strategy.

You can watch episode one on Defence Homes.

The five-part Housing Matters series will continue with a new episode released fortnightly on a Wednesday. Upcoming episodes include an honest conversation about damp and mould with our suppliers, a deeper look at the unique challenges military families face and how their housing works, the importance of building strong communities on patch and the new freedoms military families have to personalise their military house to feel like a home.

So grab a cup of tea, press play and join us each week for Housing Matters.