Proud all over again

The enduring connection between the Sunderland Association and RAAF Base Richmond was recognised on August 26 when members associated with 10SQN and 461SQN visited the base, reflecting on a shared history stretching back to World War II.

WGCDR Michael Stuart-Watt, RAAF Base Richmond Community Engagement, said the ‘Sunderlander’ visitors shared similarities with other squadron associations connected to the base.

“The group represented relatives and aviation enthusiasts from what could also be termed ‘Maritimers’,” WGCDR Stuart-Watt said. 

“With its focus on sea patrol, the Sunderland Association is closely linked to 11SQN and 458SQN (sister) association members, further highlighting the base’s rich history.”

Before the outbreak of war, Rathmines on Lake Macquarie was established as a base for Sunderland flying boats. A group of RAAF aviators departed Point Cook for the UK to train on the aircraft, with the intention of eventually flying them home to Australia.

However, the declaration of war in September 1939 changed those plans. At the request of British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, the Australians remained in the UK to support the Allied war effort. 10SQN became the first Australian and Dominion squadron to enter operational service during the conflict.

Additional personnel required to bring the squadron to full strength departed through the gates of RAAF Base Richmond. Their connection to the base was later commemorated with a bronze plaque bearing their names on one of the original brick gate posts, accompanied by a model Sunderland on the other.

A large hangar originally constructed at Rathmines to accommodate the Sunderland was later transported by barge along the coast and Hawkesbury River to Richmond, where it was repurposed to accommodate Hercules aircraft. Its distinctive roof notch remains a reminder of the Sunderland’s considerable tail height.

461SQN was formed on Anzac Day 1942, strengthening the RAAF contribution to Royal Air Force Coastal Command. Operating alongside 10SQN from bases including Mount Batten in Plymouth and Pembroke Dock in Wales, the squadrons conducted convoy escort, search and rescue, VIP transport and anti-submarine patrols throughout the war.

The squadron’s proud distinction as ‘First into Combat’ remains an important part of its legacy and is still carried on a banner by family members on Anzac Day. 10SQN was the only squadron that served the entire duration of WWII. 

Following the war, Sunderland Associations were established across Australia, bringing veterans together to maintain the friendships forged through service and remember those who did not return. 

Today, family members continue that tradition, ensuring the stories, sacrifice and service of the Sunderland crews and their enduring connection to RAAF Base Richmond are preserved for future generations.

Prue Anthony, Sunderland Association member, reflected on their visit to the base.

“Our visit to RAAF Richmond gave us a glimpse into the breadth of activities in today’s Air Force and showed the dynamism of the modern Australian Defence Force,” Mrs Anthony said.

“It made us proud all over again to remember what our relatives did under such pressure during World War II.

“We will continue to march the Sunderland banner in Anzac Day marches around Australia, remembering their service, in the knowledge that their dedication is still being matched today in the Air Force.”

The Sunderland Association presented a framed photograph of 461SQN to WGCDR Stuart-Watt in appreciation of the visit and re-establishing the connection between the association and the base.

“After such a positive and encouraging visit, RAAF Base Richmond stands ready to add this visit to the Base Engagement Calendar moving forwards,” WGCDR Stuart-Watt said.