NEWS HEADLINES

A Sky-High Celebration in Newcastle

The first Newcastle Air Show in over a decade, held 18 and 19 November, has been hailed a success.

The Royal Australian Air Force showcased its prowess with an array of aircraft that captivated tens of thousands of spectators.

The event featured classic planes like the Harvard, Winjeel, Spitfire, Mustang and Canberra, alongside modern marvels like the F/A-18F, EF/A-18G Super Hornet and the Growler. 

Renowned air ace and former RAAF pilot Matt Hall’s breathtaking manoeuvres were a highlight of the day.

The air show, a family-friendly event, offered more than just aerial displays.

Nobbys Beach, Foreshore Park and Stockton provided prime viewing spots for the shows, along with various ground activities like rides, face painting and food trucks.

The weekend event, a collaborative effort between the Air Force, City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, celebrated not just military achievements but also community spirit. 

Saturday featured flying displays over Newcastle’s beaches and rivers, while Sunday saw RAAF Base Williamtown open its gates for a non-flying open day, allowing the public to explore static ground displays and military equipment.

This event was more than a display of air skills; it was a gesture of gratitude from the RAAF to the community, showcasing the strong bond and shared history between them.

The Newcastle Air Show exemplified the blend of tradition, community engagement and military excellence, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Imagery courtesy of Department of Defence image gallery.

 

MORE NEWS

You have choices: understanding how you can access healthcare

Recent media reporting and marketing activity by some healthcare providers has suggested that veterans, particularly those living in regional and remote Australia, may struggle to access treatment unless they engage with specific service providers, including fly-in,...

Make a difference through the Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program

The latest round of the Veteran Wellbeing Grants (VWG) Program is now open. The 2026–27 VWG Program supports community-based initiatives by providing over $3.7 million in funding to ex-service organisations to deliver projects which enhance the health and wellbeing of...

Keeping the Spitfire legacy alive

When FLTLT Luke Kempton climbed into the cockpit of a Spitfire at Temora Aviation Museum recently, it marked the culmination of a journey years in the making. The Albury pilot became one of Australia’s newest Spitfire-qualified aviators after completing conversion...

Students get a close-up look at Defence careers

More than 100 Western Australian students spent a day exploring life in uniform when Royal Australian Air Force Association WA hosted an inaugural ADF Careers Day on Tuesday 11 August. Nine school groups, comprising 117 students from Midland Learning Academy, Belmont...