The Burdekin’s proud aviation cadet history will be celebrated as part of the Diamond Jubilee of No.1 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), marking 75 years since its formation. Generations of cadets who trained in Ayr and across North Queensland have gone on to serve in the Air Force, aviation, and other industries, with the milestone set to be honoured at a special event in May.
The Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated with a Cocktail Party on Saturday 17th May, 2025, at the Townsville RAAF Base.
Current and former staff of the AAFC, previously known as the Air Training Corps (ATC) and later abbreviated to AIRTC (to save confusion with Air Traffic Control) are encouraged to attend and share in the celebration.
No1 Wing began with the formation of No1 Flight in Townsville, which held its first parade on May 4th 1950. This was soon followed by the formation of No.2 Flight at the Townsville Technical College. In the following years, Flights (now termed Squadrons) were formed at Ingham, Mackay, Cairns, Mareeba, Innisfail, Ayr, Charters Towers, Bowen and Mt. Isa.
A recent snapshot of the Wing indicated a cadet enrolment of over 440 and an adult staff of more than 60 across the 10 Squadrons, and the Wing’s Headquarters.
Current and former staff can obtain further details and purchase tickets for the Cocktail Party by contacting aafc1wg@cadetnet.gov.au.
Commemorative ‘patches’ and coins have been approved and produced to mark the anniversary and will be available for purchase as a memento of the event.
A Wing activity is in the planning phase. In September this year, all currently enrolled cadets and staff will have the opportunity to participate.
Air Force Cadets gather in front of a C-130 Hercules, showcasing their dedication to aviation and leadership. Photo supplied
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