Flypasts for RAAF Memorial

Australian Army CH-47F Chinook helicopters fly past a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at Fua`amoto international airport, Tonga, during Operation Tonga Assist 2022.

The Royal Australian Air Force will dedicate a new memorial at Point Cook to everyone who has worn the RAAF uniform since its formation in 1920.

A ceremony will be held at 11am on Wednesday, March 30, and will feature a number of flypasts by current and historic military aircraft including a CA-18 Mustang, the C-17A Globemaster and the Roulettes aerobatic team.

Director-General Air Force 2021 Andrew Elfverson said the memorial will be a special place to “pause and reflect” on the contributions the air force has made.

“More than 350,000 Australians have served in Air Force since 1921 and 11,191 have died serving the nation. 3,143 air force members have no known grave.

“This memorial honours their dedication, service and sacrifice.”

The tribute will be a permanent legacy that marks the conclusion of the centenary program, honouring 100 years of service.

RAAF base in Point Cook is the oldest continually operating military airfield in the world and the birthplace of the Australian Air Force.

Air force say it will make every effort to minimise aircraft noise for residents in local areas.

Due to COVID-19 members of the public are unable to attend the dedication ceremony, but can watch a livestream of the event through the air force’s official Facebook page.