Spartans fly back to Charleville

In partnership with Defence Force Recruiting (DFR), No. 35 Squadron hosted C-27J Spartan flights to regional Queensland communities throughout February, including Kingaroy, Roma and most recently Charleville.

CAPTION: Flight Lieutenant Matthew Still, right, and Loadmaster Corporal Joanna Fletcher give residents a tour of a C-27J Spartan at Charleville Airport, Queensland. Photo by Leading Aircraftwoman Emma Schwenke.

Departing from RAAF Base Amberley, the squadron provided static displays at local airports to engage local communities and generate public awareness about ADF careers.

Squadron Leader Robert Crawford said the missions were part of an ongoing program to visit regional communities across the state.

“Charleville was one of the townships visited during Exercise Christmas Hop in December and our squadron had been looking forward to a return visit,” Squadron Leader Crawford said.

“The turnout from the community is always great and we welcome the opportunity to give people of all ages a tour around the C-27J Spartan.

“My parents lived and worked as teachers here in Charleville many years ago, so I feel a personal connection with the town. I also appreciate the rich military history that Charleville has to offer.”

Flight Lieutenant Melinda Russell from DFR Brisbane said partnering with No. 35 Squadron for the visit provided their teams with a fast method to reach remote areas in south-east Queensland.

“Townships that would typically require a long drive and overnight travel to visit, can be reached in under two hour’s flight time,” she said.

“More regular visits to these communities not only opens up greater access, but provides a unique opportunity for DFR teams to experience military flight.

“This partnership has motivated my team and it’s been great to have the opportunity to showcase a RAAF aircraft and the diverse roles available firsthand.”

No. 35 Squadron aims to visit Charleville again in May.

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