History
RAAF Base Wagga, located in Wagga Wagga New South Wales, has been part of the Wagga regional community since World War II. It is known as ‘The Home of the Aviator’ as all aviators begin their careers at Wagga. The continued acquisition of new platforms means that Air Force personnel will always require top-class training to maintain the leading edge in professional mastery.
The Australian Defence Force is a diverse, highly trained and accomplished organisation made up of a cross-section of people from all walks of life.
Traditional name and significance
‘Yalbiligi Ngurang’ (pronounced 'Yal-bili-gi Ner-rung') is a Wiradjuri term that means 'learning place' in the Wiradjuri language. The term conveys a broader concept of habitual learning that encompasses all aspects of education. This includes not just instructors, recruits, and trainees, but also the materials, classrooms, and outdoor learning spaces and everything in between.
Further information about Defence's commitment to First Nations peoples can be found in the RAAF Base Wagga dual naming factsheet below.
RAAF Base Wagga dual naming factsheet (PDF, 588.72 KB)
Artwork
In the boundless expanse of the sky, the Maliyan, or Eagle, soars with majestic grace, embodying the spirit of the Wiradjuri Protector.
This noble eagle watches over the family, community, and land, just as the Royal Australian Air Force safeguard the skies above. For the Wiradjuri Nation, sharing knowledge, customs, and culture is not merely a tradition but a vital thread that weaves the fabric of their existence.
On the ground below, the Guga, or Goanna, moves with an elegance that belies its speed, darting like a bolt of lightning when the moment calls. This creature's poised yet swift demeanour mirrors the resilience and dynamism of the Wiradjuri people.
At the heart of the Wiradjuri Nation's aspirations lies the land, its people, and the profound principle of yindyamarra – respecting all things. This deep-seated respect forms the cornerstone of their identity, guiding their interactions with nature and each other. Through the wisdom of the Maliyan and the agility of the Guga, the Wiradjuri Nation continues to thrive, honouring their heritage and nurturing the land that sustains them.
About the artist
The artist, Luke Penrith’s ancestral bloodlines are connected through the Wiradjuri of South Western NSW, the Wotjobaluk of Western Victoria, the Yuin of the far South Coast of NSW, and the Gumbaynggirr Nation of the North Coast of NSW. Luke’s life’s work has been focused on building a foundation and work ethic in Aboriginal communities to grow and secure long-term careers in their chosen industries.