RAAF Base East Sale celebrates 75 years of operation

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base East Sale today marked 75 years of operation. The anniversary was celebrated by a parade and flypast at the base.
 
Minister for Defence Personnel, Darren Chester said over the last 75 years RAAF Base East Sale had played a vital role in training next generation air force personnel.
 
“After World War II the base became the centre of air force aviation training and this legacy continues today,” Mr Chester said.
 
RAAF Base East Sale is home to the Officer's Training School, No.1 Flying Training School, the School of Air Traffic Control and Central Flying School.
 
The base is also home to the aerobatic flying team the RAAF Roulettes, which has entertained crowds around Australia with their precision formation flying.
 
Mr Chester said the Gippsland community was also an important part of the legacy of the base and was grateful for continued support.
 
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for its support over the years, as we train the next generation of ADF aviation leaders,” Mr Chester said.
 
“As of early 2019, under the banner of the Air Academy, RAAF Base East Sale will train all elementary officer aircrew for courses in pilot training, air traffic control, air combat officer and mission aircrew.” 
 
RAAF Base East Sale will remain a busy and exciting part of the Australian Defence Force as it continues to provide defence with qualified flying instructors. The base provides a significant part of initial employment training for all officers in aviation roles for air force, as well as for Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy students.