Germany: Sennelager Weekend Guide

Welcome to your weekly Sennelager HIVE update. Time for the Summer Fete on Saturday with plenty of things to do in the Paderborn area on Sunday too. The weather should be cooler over the weekend. 

 
Garrison Events

Zumba Class: Join Sylvia at the Normandy Bks gym this Thursday at 12:15 PM. Send her a Facebook message or email to sign up.

The Summer Fete: This is the massive summer event for our families! Head over this Saturday, July 4th, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Kids can enjoy a carousel, bouncy castles, and bungee jump trampolines. There will be prizes, food from the fabulous Taste of the world tent. 

Plus food from NAAFI available for purchase with drinks (Card only payments). No dogs allowed. 

What's On in Paderborn This Weekend 

• Sunday, July 5th is full of festival fun  with the HNF Summer Festival: The Heinz Nixdorf Museum meadow turns into a giant playground from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Kids can race on an 85-meter inflatable obstacle course. Enjoy human foosball, face painting, and crafts. Entry is free. Only 10 mins drive 

• International Festival at Schloss Neuhaus: Taste amazing food from around the world from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy live music, kids' choirs, and drum concerts at the Fountain Theatre.
  

  
  
  

• Skate & BBQ at Goldgrund Park: Watch professional and amateur skaters compete from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Grab some tasty barbecue while you watch.

                                                         

• Blueberry Picking:  You can pick fresh Blueberries starting Friday at 8:00 AM. Head to Bioland Hof Herber in Salzkotten, just 30 minutes away

Quick Garrison Reminders

• Conserve Water: Please be mindful of your hose pipe and indoor water usage.
• Get Your Fridge Magnet: Missing your Emergency Contacts magnet? Pick one up at Brydon House. It has all the vital numbers for you.

BELGIUM: Social Dinner, Venue TBC, Friday 17th July 2026

This month is the Social Dinner...

WHEN: Friday 17th July 2026
WHERE: TBC

All welcome.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

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

The Post Office located in Chit Chat Community Centre will be closed from 16 to 17 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: BFBS Job Vacancy - Full-Time Office Administrator

Full-Time Office Administrator

Click here for Job Advert.

Please send your CV and covering letter to Lal.Shahi@bfbs.com

Closing date: Friday, 10th July 2026.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Brunei: BFB Blood Donation Drive Thursday 2 July 2026 10.00 - 14.00hrs @ Main Gymnasium, Tuker Lines

BFB Blood Donation Drive

BFB warmly encourage everyone to participate in the upcoming Blood Donation Drive. It will be held on Thursday 2 July 2026 from 10:00 to 14:00 at Main Gymnasium, Tuker Lines. Your contribution can help save lives and make a meaningful difference to those in need.

Information provided by Brunei HIVE.

BRUNEI: Pregnancy & Postnatal Yoga with Kristen Baker - Every Thurdays *Next Date* 2 July 2026, 12 - 1 PM @ PCMF

Please click the image to enlarge.

Join a 60-minute pregnancy and post natal yoga class at PCMF every Thurdays, designed around gentle, supportive movement to build strength and stability, ease discomfort, and prepare your body for birth and recovery. 

• $2 per session.

Babies welcome. 

Please scan the QR code above or follow the link to book your spot. 

Questions and more information contact kjmeagher88@gmail.com

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

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

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: DIO(B) - Scheduled work for July and Hornbill School Access Road Work

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.
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

BFBS to deliver live coverage of the 2026 Nepal Cup Final on 4 July

Image Credit: Gurkha Brigade Association

BFBS to deliver live coverage of the 2026 Nepal Cup Final on 4 July

On 4 July 2026, one of the most significant occasions in Gurkha sport returns as the Nepal Cup Final is broadcast live exclusively with BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service), bringing together tradition and pride in a showcase event at the heart of the military sporting calendar.

The hugely anticipated final will be streamed live on Forces News YouTube and on BFBS TV (serving personnel and families overseas only) ensuring those in active service, veterans, and military football followers across the globe can follow every moment of the action as it unfolds.

The Nepal Cup is widely regarded as one of the most important days in Gurkha sport, combining elite competition with cultural celebration and ceremonial tradition. The Queen’s Gurkha Signals have dominated recent years, lifting the trophy for the past two seasons, including a 2-0 victory over the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment in last year’s final. In 2024, the competition delivered one of its most memorable editions to date, featuring a five-goal thriller packed with outstanding goals and emotional reactions.

Kyle Dixon, BFBS Sport Reporter & Producer, said: “BFBS looks forward to sharing the livestreamed experience in this final, a standout occasion where tradition and sporting talent come together to unite the military community. Being able to capture the colour and intensity in real-time is at the heart of what BFBS Sport does.”

BFBS broadcasts more than 60 live military sporting events each year, continuing its mission to connect the global forces community through sport. This year’s final promises to deliver another iconic moment in military sporting history, with news coverage also available here: https://www.forcesnews.com/sport/football/nepal-cup-final-experience-amazing-gurkha-football-event-live-bfbs-sport

Don’t miss a moment, follow BFBS Forces News on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Help shape our 2027–2030 funding – your insight matters

AFCFT message to the Service community:

We are beginning our consultation to shape the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust’s funding approach for 2027–2030, and we would really value your insight as serving personnel. We have the approval of Gen Humphris (ACDS(People)) to reach out to you.

We want to understand the issues you and your families are experiencing, particularly during periods of high operational tempo, and where there may be gaps or emerging needs. Your lived experience is essential in helping us focus our funding on what would be most genuinely helpful.

We are very conscious of the pressures on your time. So we are asking if you are able to complete an online survey, anonymously, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LWPQ6TY.

Our role is to complement what already exists by funding services and support that add practical value for you and your families.

If you are willing to share reflections, examples or priority areas we should be considering, your contribution would directly inform how future funding is shaped.

Thank you for everything you do, and for considering supporting this work.

DIO Update: Publication of NAO Report on the repurchase of the Defence SFA Estate

The National Audit Office (NAO) has today published its report into the MOD’s buy-back of 36,000 homes.

The report confirms that bringing these homes back into public ownership has already stopped what could have been billions of pounds in future losses, while giving the MOD the control it needs to improve housing for families. The homes had originally been sold in 1996 and leased back for many years, at huge cost to taxpayers. Since completing the buy-back in early 2025, the MOD has been able to redirect money previously spent on rent into making homes better.

Whilst the report states that the deal to repurchase was the lowest cost option and handled effectively, it also highlights some challenges for the MOD and the need to establish the Defence Housing Service with the powers and autonomy it requires to deliver planned reform efficiently.

For the full set of NAO recommendations and details on the report’s impact, further information is available on Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can sign up to get Defence Homes updates direct to your inbox via this link: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

Gerrmany: Overseas Families Virtual Briefing

 

Germany: Water Conservation in SFA

 Water Conservation Reminder 💧

With the recent hot weather, we’d like to remind all personnel, families, and visitors that water is a valuable resource. Please use it responsibly.

Simple actions can make a big difference:

• Take shorter showers
• Only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads
• Turn off taps when not in use
• Avoid watering lawns and gardens
• Refrain from topping up paddling pools and swimming pools unnecessarily

By working together and using water wisely, we can protect supplies, reduce demand, and ensure there’s enough water for everyone across the garrison.

Water is especially precious in Service Family Accommodation. Even small issues like dripping taps or running toilets can waste significant amounts if left unreported.

If you notice any leaks or faults, please report them immediately to the MITIE Helpdesk. Prompt reporting helps conserve water, reduce costs, and maintain a comfortable living environment for all.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in protecting this vital resource

Gibraltar: Wine Festival & Cardboard Boat Race this weekend

Now you have recovered from ''Gibraltar Rocks'' its time to start planning for next weekend!

11th Gibraltar Wine Festival

FRIDAY 3RD JULY 2026 from 5pm until late.
Wines from around the world
Live music and DJs
BBQ and food stalls
Ham & cheese stall
Street festival atmosphere

Cardboard Boat Race.

The race raises funds for Cancer Relief Gibraltar and the GBC Open Day and is great fun.

SATURDAY 4TH JULY from 10am
Boats made entirely from cardboard.
10am Boats assemble and are judged in Casemates Square.
Parade to Ocean Village before racing.
Junior and Senior races, plus a Kayak Tug-of-War.
Prizes for the fastest boats, best design, fancy dress and the famous "Titanic" sinking award.

BELGIUM: Free Museums Sunday this Sunday!

This Sunday is the first Sunday of the Month which can only mean one thing....

FREE Museums Sunday! Over 160 museums are available to visit at no charge whatsoever, so this is a perfect opportunity to explore everything from history and art to the weird and wonderful that makes Belgium a great place to live! So whether its rain or shine this weekend, enjoy your downtime and make the most of this brilliant cultural initiative.

Some popular museums still require you to book online to guarantee entry but entry will be free on the first Sunday of every month.

Check out the participating museums HERE. And do check their website for any reservation requirements.

Happy Exploring!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Britbar Community Opening, Friday 3rd July 2026

Don't miss the Britbar Community Opening this Friday! 

Come along after work, have a drink and decompress with friends. 

Uniform accepted, All Welcome.

See you there!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: NAAFI - Notice of Closure

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: BFB Spouses Coffee Morning and GSO Farewell & Welcome - Tuesday, 30th June 2026, 0900 - 1130 hrs @ CCCC

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Gibraltar Rocks Music Festival 27th June

GIBRALTAR NAVAL TRUST & SSAFA PRESENT

GIBRALTAR ROCKS

Saturday 27th June at DTC Astroturf from 1800 – Midnight as we celebrate Armed Forces Day with an evening of live music, great food, family fun and community spirit!

Live performances from:

• Mark Muscat

• Nikolai Celecia & The Coastliners

• The Hypnics

• DJ Nihal

Food & Refreshments:

• NAAFI Bar

• Pizza Plazza

• Top Dogs

• Rockabanana

• Candy Castle

• Here’s Johnny Ice Cream

Updated Family Activities:

- Photo Booth

- Creative Events – Children’s Activities

- Sparkle & Shine Face Painting

- Monique’s Face Painting

Don’t miss the football!

Panama v England on the big screen.

Bring your own deck chairs, camping chairs, blankets and picnic.

FREE ENTRY for the Armed Forces community, families and contractors.

Live Music ★ Great Food ★ Good Times ★ Family Fun

Valuing Forces Families Overseas: Focus Group Invitation

RAND Europe has been commissioned by the Army Families Federation, in partnership with the RAF Families Federation and the Naval Families Federation, to conduct a study exploring the experiences of UK military families throughout the overseas postings cycle. As part of this research, RAND Europe is holding focus groups with military families who have experience of overseas postings, including preparing for, undertaking, and returning from an assignment overseas. These discussions aim to provide an improved and up-to-date understanding of families lived experiences and the challenges they face at different stages of the overseas postings cycle.