The Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Brown AM today launched Arnhem Drifter, which will see the Air Force Balloon travel through Arnhem Land, the Kimberley Ranges and central Australia as part of Arnhem Drifter from 28 July to 31 August.
“Arnhem Drifter provides Air Force with a great opportunity to bring aviation to young Australians in remote communities, who otherwise would not be able to experience the magic of flight.
“The Balloon allows many communities and young people to have a ‘hands-on’ experience that is often not possible with our military capability.
“The Balloon also brings a serious education message, teaching science and technology,” the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Brown AM said.
Since 1990, the Air Force Balloon has provided opportunities for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) to bring aviation to young Australians, especially those who do not have a local airport.
Hot air balloons are one of the earliest forms of aviation, and were even used for surveillance in World War I.
Arnhem Drifter will be visiting the following towns over the coming month:
|
Date |
Town |
Date |
Town |
| 28 July | Bourke | 19 August | Fitzroy Crossing |
| 29 July | Charleville | 20 August | Halls Creek |
| 30 July | Longreach | 21 August | Balgo |
| 1 August | Tennant Creek | 22 August | Yuendumu |
| 2 August | Katherine | 26 August | Marla |
| 5 – 9 August | Nhulunbuy | 27 August | Coober Pedy |
| 10 August | Gapuwiyak | 28 August | Woomera |
| 11 August | Ramingining | 29 August | Peterborough |
| 12 August | Tindal | 30 August | Wentworth |
| 13 August | Darwin | 31 August | Goolgowi |
| 15 August | Darwin | ||
| 17 August | Kunnunurra | ||
| 18 August | Wamun |
Images of the launch can be accessed via: http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/Grid.fwx?archiveId=5003&search=11120277
Media contact: Defence Media Operations – 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
