While Craig Lowndes cemented his legacy on the track with his 32nd Repco Bathurst 1000 start, matching the appearances of his late mentor Peter Brock, the Australian Defence Force proved to be the big winner off the track.

When about 200,000 motorsport fans descended on Mount Panorama, all with an appreciation for power and performance, the ADF seized a unique opportunity to showcase its capabilities and career opportunities to a receptive audience.

The weekend’s aerial displays commanded particular attention, with a Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II demonstration leaving visitors awestruck.

“That was absolutely awesome,” said one enthusiast from the grandstands, capturing the sentiment of many who witnessed the fast jet’s speed and agility.

“I’m from New Zealand and we just don’t see this kind of thing over there. I just want everyone to know how much this is appreciated.”

The precision flying of the Roulettes aerobatic team and morning flights by the Air Force Balloon added to the aerial spectacle, while ground displays featured a Navy EC-135 helicopter, Team Army vehicles and roving performances by the Australian Army Band – Sydney.

'We’ve got 330 different roles that are available for anyone from the age of 17 through to 55 or 60.'

Soldiers from 5th Brigade were on hand to engage with curious spectators, all funnelling interest towards ADF Careers.

For ADF Careers representatives, events such as Bathurst represent vital touchpoints with the community.

“The aim of this weekend is to demonstrate to the Australian public the great job opportunities available through the ADF,” Warrant Officer Denis Baker said.

“We’ve got 330 different roles that are available for anyone from the age of 17 through to 55 or 60, depending on if they’re going to Reserves or not.”

The response from the crowd was overwhelmingly positive, with genuine interest in the diverse opportunities Defence offers.

Sergeant Josh Gillon noted that cyber roles had seen particular interest recently, alongside traditional trades such as electricians, plumbers and vehicle mechanics, as well as university pathways through the Australian Defence Force Academy.

“We need to change the attitude of ADF being all about guns and bullets,” Warrant Officer Baker said.

“Obviously, our primary role is to defend Australia and her interests. But at the end of the day, we have a lot more than that.”

For the ADF, Repco Bathurst 1000 delivered exactly what was hoped for – awareness and genuine interest from Australians who might not have otherwise connected with Defence.

In an event defined by speed and competition, the Defence message was clear – there is a place for every passion within the ADF.