New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa
Media Release
16 August 2006
Army Unimog Accident – Updated Details of Private Meredith Simm
Private Meredith Jonathan Simms (18) died yesterday in a Unimog accident at Weld Pass near Blenhiem.
Private Simms grew up in the Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt and was a former student of St Patricks College in
Silverstream. He was a keen hunter and enjoyed clay bird shooting, soccer, badminton, squash, dragon boating and
photography.
Private Simms joined the Army in March 2006 as a rifleman. After completing his initial basic training in May he began
training as an infantry soldier. In early June Private Simms applied for a corps change to be an army driver and began
working with the Burnham based 3rd Logistic Battalion. Private Simms was the passenger in the Unimog.
Private Simms was a well-liked soldier who was extremely polite and courteous. He had established some strong
friendships within the army and was an integral and valued member of his section.
Click to enlarge
Private Meredith Simms
Click to enlarge
Private Meredith Simms on exercise in Marlborough August 2006
ENDS