Brisbane
The Brisbane 2008 event was generously hosted by 36 Squadron of the Royal Australian Airforce at the Amberley base just outside of Brisbane. 36 Squadron operates the RAAF's latest airborne assets - the C17 Globemaster. This aircraft is designed to transport heavy loads in many different roles and included in those roles is passenger transport.
Two hundred participants from the Starlight Foundation and Camp Quality assembled early on Sunday, 9th of November and despite the forecasts of rain, the weather was kind to all on the day. As well as the C17 Globemaster, other activities organised included:
- a static display of an F111 fighter - also resident at RAAF Amberly
- the opportunity to climb in over the RAAF fire engines
- a display by the RAAF guard 'puppies' (much to the terror/delight of the crowd)
- a demonstration of the Bushmaster troop transport vehicles made in Australia and used by the ADF
- lunch generously provided by Boeing - the manufacturer of the aircraft
- jumping castles, clowns, face painting and magicians
Unfortunately, as aircraft are wont to do occaisionally, the C17 developed a fault which meant it couldn't take our passengers for a ride but much of the excitement was still on hand as the flight crew took the aircraft loaded with FunFlighters for some very fast and very loud high speed taxi runs along Amberly's 3 kilometre runways.
FunFlight, the Starlight Foundation and Camp Quality are grateful to the RAAF and particuarly 36 Squadron, commanded by Wing Commander Linda Courbold, for their amazing hospitality and support for the day.
Richard Ogilvie