Members of 34SQN on the flightline at RAAF Base Fairbairn (from left) FLTLT Chris Ellison, SGT David Kelly, ACW Caroline Haste, CPL Ian Stanley and CPL Ray Clayton. Photo by CPL Mark Eaton

No. 34 Squadron Maintenance staff at RAAF Base Fairbairn have virtually rubbed shoulders with the Governor-General, Prime Minister, Defence Minister and international dignitaries for more than 45 years.

But this era will soon end. In January 2003 the squadron will hand over maintenance of its VIP fleet to Qantas Defence Services when the Falcons are replaced with 737 and Challenger aircraft.

The squadron can trace its formation to Darwin on February 23, 1942, four days after raids on the city by the Japanese. After a busy period of transport operations and relocations during World War II, by 1956 its title was changed to 34 (VIP) Flight and the Squadron was re-formed at RAAF Base Fairbairn.

It was responsible for safe and comfortable air transport for Australia's leading citizens and visiting dignitaries. It was also the first operational squadron in the Air Force to have women posted to it.

In 1963 the squadron was renamed 34SQN, receiving its tasking from the Governor-General, Prime Minister and Defence Minister.

A team of about 40 maintenance personnel currently provide 24-hour-a-day, 365-days-a-year ground liaison and service for all VIP aircraft in and out of RAAF Base Fairbairn. Recent taskings have included support to the Queen and Royal family during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Queensland.

The squadron was the first to be involved in the lead up to the Gulf War when it evacuated Australians from the Middle East and it was the first into East Timor under INTERFET.

34SQN Aircraft Maintenance Officer Flight Lieutenant Chris Ellison said there was always a new challenge in providing a service for VIPs.

"We look forward to giving our best until the last Falcon leaves Fairbairn," FLTLT Ellison said.

Sergeant Dave Kelly, Corporal Steve Kirby and Corporal Ray Clayton typified the general feeling of maintenance staff, saying they had made many friends and had fond memories of their time with the squadron.

The highly experienced personnel will be posted to RAAF Base Richmond by January 2003 but not before they celebrate with a family day and social function on September 14. Current and former members of 34SQN are welcome to attend. Contact Leading Aircraftwoman Sheree Bateman on (02) 6287 6609 or sheree.bateman@defence.gov.au.

By CPL Mark Eaton