12 October 2020
RAAF Base Tindal personnel are seeking to inspire regional communities as the base prepares for what will be year of commemorations across Australia in 2021.
One of the oldest air forces in the world, the Royal Australian Air Force marks its 100th anniversary next year.
RAAF Base Tindal Senior ADF Officer Wing Commander Tim Ferrell hosted an information session during September for Katherine region community leaders.
"The aim of this session was to provide an overview of the centenary and what Air Force has planned for RAAF Base Tindal, Katherine and the surrounding region throughout 2021," Wing Commander Ferrell said.
"Defence is keen to understand how it can share the Air Force's centenary next year by engaging with Katherine and our outlying communities."
The centenary will include events and activities at the national, regional and base levels in line with the overarching program theme: Then. Now. Always.
Centenary events will focus on recognising the role of the permanent Air Force, reservists and public servants employed within Defence by honouring our people and our past. They will also highlight the spectrum of air and space power capabilities and Air Force's contributions to the ADF's joint force effects more broadly as part of One Team, One Defence.
2021 is also the 80th anniversary of the formation of the Australian Air Force Cadets. It's hoped the various events and activities around the country will inspire young Australians to consider a career in Air Force, Defence or aviation industry.
Wing Commander Ferrell said during the centennial year, it was important RAAF Base Tindal acknowledged the proud heritage of Australia's First Peoples as guardians of country, its land, seas and skies.
"We are committed to work with Australia's First Peoples to honour and celebrate the richness and diversity of the world's oldest living culture," he said.
"Together we are proud Australians carrying on with the shared responsibility and privilege of protecting our country and its skies and the Air Force Our Place, Our Skies strategy 2019-2028 will feature throughout 2021.
"The members and families of RAAF Base Tindal look forward to sharing this historic event with the people of the greater Katherine region.
"Keep your eyes skyward, you may see something exciting. Then. Now. Always."
For further information on the commemoration of the Royal Australian Air Force’s formation in March 1921, visit the Royal Australian Air Force Turns 100 webpage.
