From such great heights

Gippsland is truly the middle of everywhere and the Air Force has been a part of the Gippsland community for more than 83 years.

First opened in 1943, RAAF Base East Sale, Victoria, hosts initial officer training and flying training through the Central Flying School. It is the home of 32SQN, which operates the KA350 King Air, and 30SQN airbase operations. RAAF Base East Sale is also home to the Roulettes.

Air Force partnered with the Wellington Shire Council and Pace Events in support of the Anzac Week Airshow, held in West Sale from April 18 to 19.

SADFO RAAF Base East Sale WGCDR Peter Ferris said the base had a rich history and the sense of community was strong among those who served at East Sale.

'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,'" WGCDR 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 Air Force’s contribution to the event was key.

“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,” Mr Sager said.

100SQN warbirds were a crowd favourite, with flying displays by the second oldest DH82A Tiger Moth, as well as displays by the heritage CAC CA-18 Mustang and CAC Winjeel. Aviation enthusiasts also had opportunities to see the aircraft up close on the ground and chat to the pilots who fly them.

For XO 100SQN SQNLDR Samuel Da Graca Costa, the squadron’s 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 who had their grandfather learn on the Tiger Moth, or maybe they flew bombers. I even had one person whose uncle flew in 76SQN 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.”