Open day attracts thousands of locals
More than 2000 locals were delighted to see Defence capabilities on display, showcasing Royal Australian Air Force and Australian Army personnel and equipment at the RAAF Base Point Cook open day on Father’s Day.
CAPTION: Members of the public line up to receive a tour onboard the C-27J Spartan during the RAAF Base Point Cook open day, Victoria. Story by Flying Officer Rose Gigliotti. Photos by Aircraftwoman Mikaela Fernlund.
Heritage aircraft from 100 Squadron were on display, including a De Havilland Tiger Moth, CAC Winjeel, Sopwith Pup and CAC Wirraway, all while skilled mechanics could be seen carrying out maintenance on the ever-popular CAC Mustang.
The Strike and Recce hangar was also open for the public to view other aircraft including a Canberra Bomber, F-111 and F/A-18 Classic Hornet.
Visitors lined up to board a C-27J Spartan, the Air Force’s latest light tactical airlift aircraft. Once inside, the experience provided a glimpse of how members travel to remote locations, and are able to land on unsurfaced airstrips to support humanitarian missions.
Commanding Officer 21 Squadron Wing Commander Rob Gill said open days like this helped the public understand the role of Defence and also provided an opportunity to highlight the various career opportunities available in the ADF.
“It’s wonderful to see so many people visiting the RAAF base here at Point Cook today, especially as it’s the birthplace of our Air Force. We love meeting people and sharing what we do and why we do it,” Wing Commander Gill said.
Visitors danced and sang along to tunes performed by the Air Force and Army bands.
Local resident, Cristian Valenzuela, said seeing these amazing flying machines in the same place is just sensational.
“It really gives you an appreciation of how far aviation has come and how exciting it is to be part of this. If only I was young again,” Mr Valenzuela said.
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