Special day to celebrate at home

Royal Australian Air Force air traffic controller Flight Lieutenant Neil Young is looking forward to spending quality time with his family on Father’s Day.

CAPTION: Flight Lieutenant Neil Young with his daughters, from left, Alexa, 6, twins Ella and Sophia, 2, and Ariana, 4. Story by Bettina Mears.

As the father of four young daughters, life in the Young household has never been dull.

“Let’s just say there is always something happening,” Flight Lieutenant Young said.

“But we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Based at RAAF Base Williamtown near Newcastle, their family enjoys the lifestyle that their home in Port Stephens brings.

“It is such a great place to raise a family with the beautiful beaches and walking trails. Our girls continue to thrive here,” he said.

With his wife, Melina, also a serving member in Air Force, Flight Lieutenant Young said he cherished the special milestones they celebrated together.

“As a member of the ADF our conditions of service mean serving members don’t always have the opportunity to celebrate special days like Father’s Day with their loved ones,” he said.

“I always consider myself extremely fortunate to have these moments with my family, and my thoughts are always with those who are currently serving on operations at these times.

“As an air traffic controller, I am involved on a daily basis with controlling air movements and managing air space to ensure the safe departure of aircraft carrying our personnel in readiness to serve away from home.

“Whether it be serving locally on Operation COVID-19 Assist or deployed overseas, their commitment to service ensures the safety and freedoms of my family and families everywhere – so we can continue to celebrate special milestones like Father’s Day and preserve our way of life – in safety and together.”

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