Reserve experience for South Australia bosses

By SGT Jayne Gawley

EMPLOYERS of No. 24 (City of Adelaide) Squadron personnel recently gained a new appreciation for their Air Force employees after taking part in the Squadron’s first Exercise Executive Stretch at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

The 21 employers from across Adelaide changed into flying suits before being briefed on the day’s full schedule by Executive Officer Squadron Leader Jim Parrington and Major Chas Viner from the Defence Reserves Support Council.
Employers watched demonstrations on filling sandbags, using chainsaws and driving bulldozers, graders and 4WDs over the Edinburgh practice track by 24SQN airfield engineering and road transport staff.

After being introduced to the Steyr, they stripped and reassembled the weapon before watching a small-arms firepower demonstration. Squadron tours and a P-3C static aircraft and life-support display were topped off with an Orion simulator ride at No. 292 Squadron.

Cavan Training Centre Manager Karen Barry said, “It gave me a real insight into the RAAF Reserves and the important role they undertake. It’s a great idea and I hope more employers get on board.”

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