Town prepares for military arrival

The military will be rolling into town and pitching tents in Katanning as part of the Army Reserve training operations.

Arriving mid-July, more than 50 soldiers will be completing high level training procedures, assignments and drills throughout town. They will also be participating in scenarios with the community.

Captain Morgan Hoyes visited Katanning on Wednesday last week to meet with the Shire, health services, shop owners and community groups in preparation for their arrival.

"We have not done anything in Katanning like this for more than 10 years," he said.

"It is part of the reserves' high- level training, but it is a great opportunity for the community to get involved."

Alongside vehicle checkpoints and co-ordinated searches, role- playing participants will be planted in Katanning prior to the reserves' arrival.

Capt. Hoyes said it was an opportunity for shop owners and residents to also participate in the training operation with them.

Shire president Alan McFarland said it would be something different for the town and the local community were invited to participate.

"It's just one of those opportunities, and it will be completely run by them, but they are inviting the town and hoping they will join, it could be a bit of fun," he said.

The group will arrive on Friday, July 14 until Sunday, July 20 and will have information available in the town square.