by Flt Lt Imogen Lunny
THE Royal Australian Air Force rapidly deployed an aircraft from RAAF Base Amberley, to deliver critical aviation fuel supplies to flood-affected communities in western Queensland.
Deploying with two hours’ notice, the C-27J Spartan from 35 Squadron transported 5,000 litres of fuel to Windorah, following a request from the Queensland Government.
Flight Lieutenant David Bolt, the C-27J captain on the mission, said the Spartan aircraft was ideally suited to this kind of task.
“The rapid delivery of the jet fuel to Windorah will ensure the community can continue to utilise its own aviation assets for efforts against the rising floodwaters.
“It also assists the community in managing livestock over this period,” Flight Lieutenant Bolt said.
“It’s great to be here to support the community. It certainly gives you a sense of pride when you’re able to be there to help the people doing it tough at the moment.”
Conducting the task under a Short Notice to Move (SNTM) directive, the 35 Squadron detachment was joined by RAAF Base Amberley Air Movements personnel, who prepared the aircraft to carry the 28 fuel drums from Longreach airport during two separate ‘taps’ into Windorah.
Cpl Tayla Mason, a logistics movements aviator from 23 Squadron, was proud to support the efforts alongside her deployable Air Movements team.
“Working with a SNTM team like this requires you to remain flexible and ready to adapt to changes in the environment,” Corporal Mason said.
“But working on a task like this is so rewarding, especially when helping communities within Australia. When we are able to help Australians in need – it is one of the most fulfilling experiences.
“You can see the resilience and kindness in every person you meet – especially when you fly into an affected town and everyone is still smiling.
“It makes me very proud to be Australian.”
