No Rain on Ayr Parade

By FLTLT Brett Dockett

School children enjoyed the spectacle of 1CLS parading in the main street of Ayr, when the Squadron exercised its Freedom of Entry late last year.

Photo by CPL Kirk Peacock

MORE than a thousand community members, including school children, witnessed 1 Combat Logistics Squadron (1CLS) exercise its Freedom of Entry to Burdekin Shire on a very hot day in Ayr late last year.

The offer of Freedom of Entry was made in recognition of the Squadron’s long-standing relationship with the Shire through Anzac Day support, according to 1CLS’s Commanding Officer, WGCDR Al Wright.

The main streets of Ayr became a makeshift parade ground, and the ceremonial parade, held on October 28, began in front of the Ayr Council Chambers.

Led by WGCDR Wright, the Squadron stepped off with the accompaniment of the Air Force’s Air Command Band.

After the arrival of the Host Officer, GPCAPT Graham O’Brien, Officer Commanding 395 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing, the parade was inspected by the Reviewing Officer, Councillor Lyn McLaughlin, Mayor of Burdekin Shire.

“The Burdekin Shire is honoured to offer 1CLS Freedom of Entry to the Shire of the Burdekin,” CLR McLaughlin said.

“The community takes pride in welcoming the Squadron to the Shire, and looks forward to a long alliance with the Squadron.”

The Freedom of Entry Scroll was read by the town clerk and presented to the parade commander, symbolising the right of entry to the shire. The Squadron then advanced in review order saluting the citizens before exercising its Freedom of Entry.

The challenge was issued by Ayr’s senior police officer, Senior Sergeant Mick Isles, at the intersection of Churchill and Parker Streets. Once the Freedom of Entry was recognised, the Squadron marched a 1.7km route through the city.

Following the parade, 1CLS members mingled with local residents, discussing the Squadron’s heavy vehicle and plant display. The most popular display was the Squadron’s bomb disposal experts — the bomb disposal robot proving a hit with the children. A sausage sizzle was provided by the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club.

The Squadron wrapped up the formalities by marking the occasion with a dining-in night back at RAAF Base Townsville.

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