When Governor-General Sam Mostyn reviewed the graduation parade for Air Force’s 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) Course 04/2026, she wasn’t just fulfilling a ceremonial duty. She was returning to the city that shaped her own team.

It was the first time the Governor-General had reviewed a 1RTU parade since 2024 and she made clear the occasion held special meaning, both for her and for Wagga.

“I’m so pleased to come back to Wagga, the home of the aviator,” she told graduates, families and staff gathered at RAAF Base Wagga. 

“Many aviators, like all of you graduating, began their journeys here.”

The Governor-General drew warm applause when she revealed that two members of her own team had walked the same parade ground.

Corporal Annika Smit, one of her official photographers, started her Air Force career at 1RTU. She was present on the day, capturing images of the ceremony. Meanwhile, a member of the Governor-General’s close protection unit also trained at the base.

Ms Mostyn reflected on her own family’s military history.

“I’m the daughter of an Army officer,” she said. 

“My father served in the Royal Corps of Signals for 40 years. I know what it would feel like for your family today to see all of you taking that step into service.”

'Hopefully I play at least a small shaping role in creating good aviators and good humans.'

After the formal proceedings, the Governor-General spent considerable time with graduates and their families – chatting, posing for photographs and offering her personal congratulations – in a gesture that left a lasting impression on those in attendance.

Among those playing a key role in the parade was Flight Sergeant Matthew Mott – a military skills instructor and proud local who grew up on a farm at Yerong Creek, about 50 kilometres from the base. His mother, Debbie, watched on as he emceed the ceremony, mirroring a moment from more than 20 years ago when she sat in the same seats watching her son graduate.

“It’s pretty cool that Mum’s come back to see it again,” Flight Sergeant Mott said.

He described shaping new recruits as a privilege: “Hopefully I play at least a small shaping role in creating good aviators and good humans.”

For the graduates of Course 04/2026, the nine-week program marks the beginning of careers that will take them across Australia and beyond, as technicians, intelligence analysts, chefs, firefighters, suppliers and more.

“Wagga will always be special to all of you,” the Governor-General told them. 

“This will be the place where it all began.”