The big night out
CPL Simone Liebelt catches up with this year’s Airman of the Year and talks about volunteer work, career change and what it’s like to be the guest of honour at the Air Force’s night of nights.

Airman of the Year for 2005, LAC Michael Barr.

LAC Allan Attwood receives the J.R. Bartram and R.A. Kee Sword of Honour at the annual Air Force awards.

Photos by LAC Steve Hobbs

*

*

Members of the Air Command Band harmonise at the after party at the Air Force awards night.

Members of the Airlift Systems Program Office with CAF AIRMSHL Angus Houston after receiving the maintenance trophy at the Air Force awards night.

AFTER more than 16 years helping turn kids into future Air Force leaders, a supplier from RAAF Base Richmond has been crowned Airman of the Year.

Leading Aircraftman Michael Barr, from No. 37 Squadron, who only joined the airmen ranks three years ago, has been recognised for his hard work in logistic support and dedication as a volunteer instructor with the Air Force Cadets.

“I’m only a newbie in the RAAF, but am very much a people person, so getting to meet and work with lots of great people has been a real highlight for me,” LAC Barr said.

“I worked in civvy street for nine years and have to say I love the working environment in the RAAF. I think people who may not have experienced other environments may not fully appreciate that we have it pretty good. I’m really glad to be here now.”

His short but rewarding career has included a six-month deployment to the MEAO, for which he received an Air Commander’s Commendation. In his spare time he is devoted to volunteer work.

“One of my biggest hobbies is instructing cadets, which is a commitment involving most weeknights and most weekends,” he said. “As well as the cadets, I have also been strongly involved with assisting various charities like the Red Shield Appeal and Red Cross, as well as Clean Up Australia.

“With [these commitments] it can be very time-consuming and taxing on your private life, so I have had very little time for myself, but have had fantastic support from my family, who have all been involved in the military or cadets in one way or another.”

The jovial supplier, who after his name on emails writes “all round good bloke”, said he’d had no idea he’d been nominated for the top honour, and was shocked to discover he’d actually won.

“It was funny, because when my CO told me the news, I thought he meant Richmond Airman of the Year,” he said. “It still felt great, but a few days later I got a call from my mate who told me I’d misunderstood, and it was actually RAAF Airman of the Year.

“I [was so surprised] I nearly crashed the car ... I was on hands-free, of course.”

He said receiving the title was a great honour, and really made him appreciate the support around him.

“This has certainly been a highlight, just like other great moments I’ve had, including working with the local people of Baghdad, meeting the Prime Minister at the [No.] 86 Wing homecoming, and watching my brother graduate from 1RTU when he decided to follow me into the RAAF,” he said.

“I have always been inspired by the people around me, be it my family, friends or workmates, and am very grateful for their support over time.

“The best advice I could give others is just try your best, because people do notice, just don’t expect anything in return. That way if something does come up, it’s a nice pat on the back.”

 

.