BATTLE OF BRITAIN ‘LACE’
Gippsland is truly the middle of everywhere and Air Force has been a part of the Gippsland community for more than 83 years.
First opening in 1943, RAAF Base East Sale hosts initial officer training, flying training through Central Flying School, is the home of 32 Squadron, which operates the KA350 King Air aircraft, and 30 Squadron airbase operations. RAAF Base East Sale is also the home of the famous Roulettes.
Air Force was proud to partner with Wellington Shire Council and Pace Events in support of the Anzac Week Airshow, held in West Sale from April 18 to 19.
Senior Australian Defence Force Officer (SADFO) RAAF Base East Sale Wing Commander Peter Ferris said the base was rich in history and the feeling of community was incredibly prevalent and powerful among those who served in East Sale. When the aviators and their families move to Sale, they embrace the beautiful lifestyle that Gippsland has to offer.
“It is wonderful to be involved with the Anzac Week Airshow to showcase some of the Air Force capabilities and highlight what we do at the base,” Wing Commander Ferris said.
“RAAF Base East Sale has a great relationship with the local community and we really appreciate the support of the town and the region.”
Event Secretary Chris Sager, of Pace Events, said the Air Force contribution to the event was absolutely key.
“It takes a village to deliver this air show and we’re delivering it for the village,” Mr Sager said.
“It is a very close-knit community, so many people on site are family and friends of the exhibitors, and we see many generational Defence families in the audience, making the performances and displays really meaningful.”
From further afield, 100 Squadron warbirds were a crowd favourite, with flying displays by the second oldest DH-82A Tiger Moth aircraft, as well as displays by the heritage CAC CA-18 Mustang and CAC Winjeel aircraft. Aviation enthusiasts also had opportunity to see the aircraft up close on the ground and chat to the aviators who fly the aircraft.
For Executive Officer 100 Squadron, Squadron Leader Samuel Da Graca Costa, the squadron mission was to commemorate, celebrate and inspire.
“Displaying in the lead-up to Anzac Day, for us, it is a commemoration of those who have served before us, and continuing that narrative of success from the past through to the present,” he said.
“I’ve spoken to quite a few people this weekend that had their grandfather learn on the Tiger Moth, or maybe they flew bombers. I even had one person whose uncle flew in 76 Squadron in Papua New Guinea in the ’40s, and he had photos on his phone to show me.
“It’s those connections we want to maintain and enhance.
“It increases the esprit de corps within the currently serving force, and also cements us as an organisation of choice and recognises the sacrifice of those who have served before us.”
Story and image courtesy of Department of Defence