Matildas visit RAAF Base Amberley

In the midst of their preparations for the upcoming 2016 Rio Olympics, two players from the Australian Women’s Soccer team, the Matildas visited Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley today.

Co-captain Clare Polkinghorne and midfielder Katrina Gorry were given a tour of the base, including an inspection of the C-17 Globemaster simulator and a tour through one of Number 36 Squadron’s C-17 aircraft.

They were also taken to visit Number 1 Squadron’s F/A-18 Super Hornets, Number 33 Squadron’s KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft and the gymnasium where base personnel, including Air Force Sergeant Tracey (Mosley) Freeman – two time Olympic medallist (Bronze and Silver) – met and greeted them.

Wing Commander David Howard, representing the Senior Australian Defence Force Officer Amberley, said that it was an honour to host the players at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley.

“In a similar way to members of the Defence Force preparing for a mission or deployment, these women have been dedicated to their training and their team,” Wing Commander Howard said.

“On behalf of Acting Chief of Air Force, we wish the Matildas all the best for a successful 2016 Olympic campaign.”

Wing Commander Howard presenting the players with a letter on behalf of the Acting Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Warren McDonald, wishing them well.

Matildas co-captain Polkinghorne said the visit had been a wonderful opportunity.

“It was great to have this unique experience, meeting Air Force members and seeing some of the aircraft,” Ms Polkinghorne said.

“The highlight of the visit, for me, was being able to look around the inside of the C-17.”.

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