Feature

This feature is the first in an occasional series entitled Touching Base which will take a look at the various bases. The aim is to give readers a snapshot of daily life on the bases as depicted in the activities of its people. The images in this feature were taken by 81 Wing Photographic.

Leading Aircraftman Anthony Lorimer carries out maintenance on an F/A-18 Hornet in No. 3 Squadron’s hangar. Leading Aircraftman Luke Troy (left) and Leading Aircraftman Stuart Lloyd tend to the wing of an F/A-18 Hornet. Leading Aircraftman Stuart Lloyd and Leading Aircraftwoman Belinda Bauer in front of an F/A-18 Hornet at No. 3 Squadron. Hawks from No. 76 Squadron in formation over far north Queensland. Leading Aircraftman Mark Patroni works on a Hawk aircraft at No. 76 Squadron. A No. 3 Squadron Engine Maintenance Support member conducts an engine-run. Corporal Richard De Souza examines a PC-9 aircraft in the Forward Air Control Development Unit at RAAF Base Williamtown. Flying Officer Scott Bosman in the cockpit of No. 76 Squadron’s Hawk Simulator. Aircraft maintenance personnel return from the No. 3 Squadron flightline. Seven Hawks from No. 76 Squadron line the tarmac as part of the squadron’s safety day. The lead Hawk’s tail has been painted for participation in airshows such as the recent Avalon 2003. The rugged coastline around Fingal Lighthouse, near Port Stephens, creates a spectacular backdrop as a Hornet takes part in a flight to commemorate the 60th anniversary of No. 2 Operation Conversion Unit.