Emma gives the 'all clear' as she runs through the aircraft flight controls.

It was a memorable day for Service and civilian members from the RAAF School of Management and Training Technology (SMTT) when they welcomed parents and children from the Kurrajong Early Intervention Service (KEIS) recently.

KEIS is a charitable, non-Government-funded service, which provides assistance to children from birth to school age that have developmental delays and/or disabilities.

Twenty-one children, accompanied by their parents and centre management visited the RAAF Base, located at Forest Hill.

Arriving at 10.30 a.m., the children started their day by visiting the RAAF Museum. One of the museum's main attractions is the cockpit of a Sabre aircraft. It was all hands on deck as each preschooler was given a few minutes in the 'hot seat'. This made an ideal prop for photographs.

Leaving the aircraft behind, the 'future pilots' were off on another adventure. This time to the Base Fire Section, which is operated by Serco. On arrival, the firefighters greeted the children and gave them a quick tour followed by a talk about the operation of the fire engines and equipment.

Once the 'theory' was out of the way, the children were shown the various ins and outs of the fire engine and also given a chance to sit behind the wheel. The numerous bells, sirens and lights were a definite winner with the young children.

After all this training the new 'firefighters' were ready to see the fire hoses and, of course, the water. And they were not disappointed! With the fire engine running and water pumps full on, the children witnessed the biggest water fight they had ever seen.

To complete their training, the 'new firies' took to the hoses themselves and showed the Serco team how it should be done.

Lunchtime soon arrived and the SMTT staff had organised a barbecue in the relaxing surrounds of their pergola area. The feast of food included an endless stream of sausages, ice cream and lollies. Everyone sure had their fill as the food supply dwindled.

After lunch a drawing activity was held in one of the SMTT's classrooms, involving parents and children. And yes, there were plenty of up-and-coming artists.

A fun day was definitely had by all.

By FSGT Gary Morrison