The Atherton Tablelands community welcomed one of their own, Air Force member Warrant Officer Cath Browning – who has deep local roots – who planned vital health initiatives during Exercise Kummundoo 2025 in Mareeba. 

As the Health Services Wing Lead Health Planner, this Atherton State High School graduate brought her 29 years of Air Force experience to deliver meaningful support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the region.

Having grown up in Atherton, Warrant Officer Browning’s connection to the Tablelands made her role in Kummundoo deeply personal. 

“It was incredible to conduct the reconnaissance phase earlier this year in my hometown,” she said.

“Engaging with Mulungu Health Services, schools and community groups to identify how the Air Force could best support Mareeba’s needs was a privilege.” 

Her efforts ensured a diverse, skilled team selection delivered extra dental care, environmental health, and physical and mental health promotion to the community.

The exercise reflected the Air Force’s commitment to reconciliation and Closing the Gap, a whole-of-government initiative to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“There’s such a sense of pride in serving local communities. This work demonstrates our respect for Traditional Custodians and our practical efforts to make a difference,” Warrant Officer Browning said. 

'Serving our country, working with incredible people and connecting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities during exercises like Kummundoo are the highlights of my career.'

The Mareeba community warmly embraced the Air Force team. 

“The community has been so welcoming and curious about the program,” Warrant Officer Browning said. 

“It’s even sparked interest in Defence careers, which is exciting given our specialised Indigenous recruiting stream.”

For Warrant Officer Browning, who joined straight after graduating, the past 29 years have been a rewarding journey. 

“Serving our country, working with incredible people and connecting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities during exercises like Kummundoo are the highlights of my career,” she said.

The family’s proud legacy of service also shines through. 

Flight Sergeant (retd) Tony Fleming, a former cook who served 20 years in the Air Force, beamed with pride when speaking of his daughter’s contributions. 

“From a young age, she wanted to serve, continuing the family tradition that includes my father Ronald, cousin Edwin and now my granddaughter Nicola, who serves as a supplier in Williamtown, NSW.” 

For Mr Fleming, experiencing the Air Force camaraderie and achieving the rank of Flight Sergeant were highlights of his career.

“I’m immensely proud of Cath,” he said.