High praise for RAAFSTT

Riverina Institute of TAFE instructor Alf Stein supervises avionics trainee AC Scott Howard at the RAAF School of Technical Training at RAAF Base Wagga.

ONE of the oldest, largest and most prestigious Air Force training units, the RAAF School of Technical Training (RAAFSTT), has received a Chief of Defence Force Commendation.

RAAFSTT personnel were commended for their “outstanding performance and conspicuous achievements ...during a period of considerable turbulence and very high training workload for the unit”.

CAF Air Marshal Angus Houston presented the commendation to the Commanding Officer of RAAFSTT, Wing Commander Steve Hayes, at RAAF Base Wagga during a special parade on August 28.

As reviewing officer of the parade, AIRMSHL Houston also presented two CAF Commendations and several awards to graduates of technical and non-technical courses.

Air Commodore Col Bradford (ret’d), Director Defence, Riverina Institute of TAFE, received a commendation for his dedication and support to RAAFSTT during the commercial contract to deliver aerospace training to RAAF Base Wagga. Warrant Officer Ross McLaughlin was also commended for his work in revising the content of the ADF Aviation Maintenance Management Manual while employed at the Directorate General Technical Airworthiness.

AIRMSHL Houston said he was privileged to attend the memorable event that celebrated RAAFSTT’s achievement and recognised the decorations and awards earned by many members of RAAF Base Wagga.

“RAAFSTT is now in its 51st year of service and has been through significant change in recent years. Throughout this change the unit has continued to deliver quality training and uphold the values on which I place such importance,” he said.

In receiving the commendation on behalf of RAAFSTT’s military, Australian Public Service and Riverina TAFE staff members, WGCDR Hayes described the sense of elation felt by many at the unit in receiving recognition for their efforts, and that of previous CO, WGCDR Rob Scrivener.

He said the commendation emphasised the great work undertaken to achieve and maintain an integrated workforce that focuses on delivering a quality graduate.

“This is a great day for RAAFSTT and really highlights the considerable efforts of all staff at the school,” he said. “It doesn’t get much better than this.”

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