The RAAF's first Annual, Royal Australian Air Force 2000, is not only a year in the life of the RAAF as told by a cross-section of Air Force personnel, but a tribute to everyone who has shaped, and who continue to shape, the modern RAAF.

That's according to Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Errol McCormack, who wrote the introduction for the glossy publication.

Filled from cover to cover with diverse stories and colourful photographs, the Annual was put together by Executive Editor, Wing Commander Geoff Patchett. WGCDR Patchett (pictured at right) proposed the types of articles included in the book, aiming to appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. He approached Commanding Officers, selling the concept in a bid to encourage contributions, and oversaw the entire design and production process.

'It's been a trying project, but seeing the final product makes it worth it,' WGCDR Patchett admitted. 'It looks good and there is something for everyone. We have stories about people, aircraft, technology, history and the future.'

Royal Australian Air Force 2000 features individual accounts or experiences in East Timor, reflections from older serving airmen about what life was like, stories from Force Element Groups and commercial partners of Defence and much more.

'Stories about people's personal experiences make particularly interesting reading,' WGCDR Patchett said.

The publication has been distributed to all Commanding Officers, embassies, major contractors and Defence recruiting. 'And it doesn't cost you anything,' WGCDR Patchett said. 'Advertising covers the costs of production.'

Feedback from readers will determine whether a 2001 RAAF Annual will be published. However, WGCDR Patchett has encouraged anyone interested in contributing articles about events or experiences this year to contact him as soon as possible via email: Geoff.Patchett@cbr.defence.gov.au

By Rebecca Bullivant