Avalon 2023 - Official Souvenir Guide

HIGH TECH AIR POWER STICK AND RUDDER KNOWLEDGE BANK

Australian Defence Force air power at its best

Pure aerobatics by the masters of the art

Ringmasters prepare to run the show

26: RINGMASTERS PREPARE FOR AIRSHOW 2023

18: BLACK EAGLES TO FLY IN AUSTRALIAN FIRST

12: THE AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW THUNDERS BACK TO LIFE!

WELCOME TO AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE EXPOSITION

I’m delighted to welcome you to the 2023 Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition in Avalon. As a Geelong local, it’s a real privilege for Avalon to host one of the world’s premier aviation events. I’ve attended the AVALON for a quarter of a century and I’m thrilled Defence can again showcase its latest technology at the event’s fifteenth iteration.

The Airshow, run by the AMDA Foundation, is a rare opportunity for visitors to get up close to Defence’s cutting edge capabilities and remains the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. This year’s displays will include the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) Roulettes, the Republic of Korea’s Black Eagles aerobatic team, and an F-22 Raptor from the United States Air Force.

In the four years since the last Airshow, the RAAF has advanced its air power and joint force capabilities – it has strengthened its fifth-generation air combat capability with over 40 highly advanced stealth fighters, and the first MQ-4C Triton has been unveiled in the United States. The RAAF has also played an important role in disaster relief at home and abroad, most recently by supporting emergency services and flood-affected communities in Western Australia.

The RAAF has also focused on enhancing Australia’s space capabilities, including by establishing Australia’s Defence Space Command. This year’s theme, ‘The Future is Now: From the Sky to the Stars’, reflects this important new priority.

The Australian Government is committed to building a robust, sovereign and internationally competitive defence industry base. We are determined to forge a genuine, long-term partnership with defence industry to provide the Australian Defence Force the capabilities it needs. The Exposition is a unique platform for global experts from across the defence environment to gather and share knowledge about Australia’s defence capabilities and the latest state-of-the-art technology.

I look forward to welcoming you to Avalon and hope you enjoy what is one of the world’s signature aviation events.

Welcome to the Australian International Airshow; a comprehensive display of the air and space capabilities of Australia and the region.

It’s great to be back in the Geelong area – near Point Cook, the birthplace of Air Force – for the fifteenth occasion the event has been held at Avalon Airport.

This year is bigger and more exciting than ever. Air Force, along with Navy and Army, is honoured to showcase its people and platforms.

Throughout the event you’ll get a sense of our capability, skill and professionalism. Programmed flying includes the F-35A Lightning II, F/A-18F Super Hornet, MH-60R Seahawk, United States and Republic of Korea flying displays, plus historic aircraft from No 100 Squadron. On the ground you’ll see combat, transport, surveillance aircraft, and exhibits from Defence Space Command and aviation support functions.

We have a big focus on our collaboration with industry, and this year there are 310 companies represented across three trade halls.

So, enjoy the celebration. And as you do, please engage the sailors, soldiers and aviators here at Avalon. They are exceptional individuals who proudly serve all Australians. And if you’re thinking about a career with us in Defence, our recruiters are here to answer any questions you may have.

Air Marshal Robert Chipman AM, CSC Chief of Air Force

The Hon. Richard Marles MP Minister for Defence

Welcome to AVALON 2023.

This year, Avalon Airport will again play host to the Australian International Airshow 2023, attracting thousands of visitors to Geelong and its surrounds – and luring in some of the best minds in defence and aviation from across the globe.

Offering a spectacular weekend of heart racing action in the sky, the event will also showcase Victoria’s nation-leading aerospace industry. Victoria was the birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force, and we remain at the forefront of the country’s defence and aerospace sector.

Avalon is the gateway to some of Victoria’s most spectacular drawcards, including the Great Ocean Road and some of Australia’s most iconic surf beaches.

While you’re here, we invite you to experience the very best of everything Victoria has to offer: from the unparalleled beauty of regional Victoria to Melbourne’s world renowned restaurants, cafes and bars.

I want to send my thanks to everyone involved with making this Australia’s biggest aviation and aerospace event. And to the attendees, I wish you an enjoyable and action-packed weekend.

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I am pleased to welcome you to our great state and to AVALON 2023 – the biggest aerospace and defence exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere. The Victorian Government is a proud sponsor of AVALON 2023 which offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with the sector and witness world-leading aerospace capabilities.

Around 6,300 Victorian supply chain businesses call Victoria home, including homegrown entities like Marand, SYPAQ, Cablex and Ronson Gears. Victoria’s defence industry generates more than $8.4 billion each year for our economy and employs more than 24,000 people.

Companies like Boeing, Leonardo, MOOG, SAAB, Lockheed Martin, Thales and BAE Systems have chosen to expand in Victoria thanks to the talent, skills and infrastructure on offer. We’re also working to ensure Victoria can support companies to capitalise on new opportunities, generate more local jobs and build our sovereign manufacturing capabilities.

Through projects like Hanwha Defence Australia’s $170 million Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence here in Avalon, creating 300 new jobs. Victoria is the epicentre of Australian advanced manufacturing, and the perfect partner for your next major aerospace and defence project. Be sure to stop by the Victorian Pavilion at AVALON 2023 to meet local companies and learn about their products and capabilities.

From robotics, automation, and complex aerospace systems to immersive VR and simulation – Victorian companies and talents have the expertise and capabilities.

Enjoy all on offer at AVALON 2023.

The Hon. Ben Carroll MP Minister for Industry and Innovation Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty

The Hon. Daniel Andrews MP Premier of Victoria

WELCOME TO

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE EXPOSITION

On behalf of the City of Greater Geelong, I am pleased to be able to welcome you to the 2023 Australian International Airshow & Aerospace and Defence Exposition (AVALON 2023).

This spectacular showcase of aerial precision and might is a highlight of our region’s exciting major events calendar.

The Council is pleased to be an ongoing supporter of the airshow, which returns for its 15th event at Avalon Airport.

The 2019 edition contributed an estimated $28.9 million to Greater Geelong’s economy, attracting more than 200,000 people over three days.

After a four-year wait due to the impacts of the pandemic, it is very exciting that the eyes of the aviation world will again be on Avalon.

If you’re visiting our region for the airshow, I hope you’ll find the time to experience some of the many other attractions on offer.

Whether it’s our bays, our beaches, our natural landscapes, our food and wine producers, or our globally recognised City of Design attractions, there is so much to see and do in our region.

For some ideas and further information, I recommend you visit www.tourismgeelongbellarine.com.au

May you and your family have a great weekend.

Mayor Trent Sullivan

City of Greater Geelong

As Convenor of the 2023 Australian International Airshow & Aerospace and Defence Exposition (AVALON 2023), it is my pleasure to welcome you to the event where the Australian aviation, aerospace and space communities highlight and advance their contribution to the nation’s defence, economy and daily life.

AVALON 2023 is where more than 750 participating companies from more than 30 nations will engage on specialist industry days, developing the technologies and services that underpin capability for the Australian Defence Force and the Australian aviation industry.

Australia’s aviation industry, which directly employed more than 90,000 people and contributed more than $20 billion per year to the Australian economy before COVID, is charting its path to recovery after the pandemic.

In parallel, the nation’s growing space industry is demonstrating its niche skills and developing new capability, as Australia implements a national strategy to triple the sector’s annual contribution to GDP to $12 billion and create an additional 20,000 jobs by 2030.

Specifically designed to encourage engagement, AVALON 2023 hosts the conferences, industry connections and networking that stimulate the exchange of information and ideas in these and other fields, in the national interest.

As an event of national significance, AVALON 2023 maintains its leading position in the industry’s global calendar with the substantial support of the Government of Victoria and the Australian Department of Defence, primarily through the Royal Australian Air Force, and the City of Greater Geelong.

I trust that whether your visit to the 2023 Australian International Airshow & Aerospace and Defence Exposition is about enjoyment, industry or education, your time here will be fruitful and enjoyable.

Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd, AO RAAF (Rtd)

Convenor, 2023 Australian International Airshow & Aerospace and Defence Exposition

THE GO-TO GUIDE TO DISCOVER WHAT’S ON IN GEELONG!

STAKEHOLDERS AND SPONSORS

STAKEHOLDERS

STAKEHOLDERS

MAJOR INDUSTRY SPONSORS

MAJOR INDUSTRY SPONSORS

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

OFFICIAL LOGISTICS PROVIDER AND EXCLUSIVE ONSITE HANDLING AGENT

OFFICIAL LOGISTICS PROVIDER AND EXCLUSIVE ONSITE HANDLING AGENT

SUPPORTING ASSOCIATIONS

SUPPORTING ASSOCIATIONS

CONFERENCE PARTNERS

CONFERENCE PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

THUNDERS BACK TO LIFE!

Across the weekend of 3-5 March Victoria’s Avalon Airport will ring to the thunder of jets, the clatter and roar of aerobatic and vintage aircraft and a host of family fun, at the 2023 Australian International Airshow (AIRSHOW 2023).

The largest airshow of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, AIRSHOW 2023 will combine a spectacular three-day flying program across 3-5 March, with family entertainment and an insight into Australia’s defence and civil aviation fleets, the industry that sustains them and the careers the sector offers.

AIRSHOW 2023 is a celebration of all things aviation. At Avalon Airport the Royal Australian Air Force’s most sophisticated fast jets such as the F-35 Lightning II and EA-18G Growler will share the tarmac with everything from the world-beating United States Air Force F-22A Raptor to aircraft that were built by their own pilots. From helicopters to business jets, vintage, warbird and classic, AIRSHOW 2023 will be home to around 300 aircraft.

They will be joined by ground displays of the heralds of the next generation, such as an electric training aircraft, a personal flying car, and a company that is

already in talks with Australian regional airlines about converting their existing aircraft to electric power.

Crowd favourites such as the Skycats Wing Walkers, electrifying aerobatics from Paul Bennett, Matt Hall and Awesome Aviation and the Super Salto jet glider will wow the crowd alongside the famous Skydive Australia Meteor Men parachutists.

The flying program will kick off from 2.00 pm on Friday with Night Alight, one of the world’s few evening airshows, featuring spectacular flying and fireworks. It will roll into a Saturday and Sunday program highlighting the cream of Royal Australian Air Force, Navy and Army aircraft, plus military visitors from the air forces of the United States, South Korea, Germany, Japan, Malaysia and New Zealand.

All three days will feature a showcase of Australian Defence Force aviation. The Royal Australian Navy’s MH-60R “Romeo” helicopter will be joined by Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18F Super Hornets, F-35A Lightning IIs, a KC-30 aerial refuelling tanker, the worldleading E-7 Wedgetail airborne warning and control aircraft, the P-8 Poseidon antisubmarine warfare aircraft and C-130J and C-17 transports. With a C-27J Spartan

transport aircraft and Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter also on static display and the Roulettes aerobatic team performing for the crowd, they will demonstrate the breadth and depth of Air Force’s capability.

New for 2023, the Republic of Korea Air Force Black Eagles jet team, flying their supersonic Korean Aerospace Industry T-50 supersonic aircraft, will make their first Australian appearance, after winning display awards at overseas events such as the 2022 Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT).

The latest highly advanced military aircraft will be joined by those that paved the way, with the Royal Australian Air Force’s historic 100 Squadron aircraft including the iconic English Electric Canberra, Spitfire, Australian built CAC CA-18 version of the P-51 Mustang, Wirraway and Winjeel trainers, the classic Harvard trainer and Ryan STM.

Also new for 2023, the General Aviation and Airsport precinct will include up to 150 private vintage, classic and modern light aircraft, with visitors even being invited to pick up a tool and help build a real plane. More than 30 aviation organisations will display a cross section of aviation activities, including seaplanes, gliding,

ballooning, museums and aircraft restoration, women in flight, safety and aviation careers.

But it won’t just be about those magnificent men and women in their flying machines. There will be plenty to see and do at ground level, including classic car displays, drone racing, military dog demonstrations and a host of careers and skills activities, plus a new Kids Zone with fun aviation-related activities in a temperature-controlled facility.

To celebrate its return after a four-year hiatus, AIRSHOW 2023 is offering FREE general admission to anyone aged 15 years and under.

There are ticket categories to accommodate every need: general admission is perfect for those who want to roam the site all day or bring their picnic rug. Gold Pass might be the best choice for people wanting the grandstand view. There are also options for those who want to wine and dine in a luxurious glass-front air-conditioned chalet with gourmet meals and beverages for hours.

For more information visit airshow.com.au For tickets, go to airshow.com.au or Ticketmaster – www.ticketmaster.com.au

AIRSHOW PERFORMERS THE MASTERS OF ‘STICK AND RUDDER’ FLYING

The thundering jets may make the most noise, but for many airshow visitors the magic of aviation is still best found in the pure “stick and rudder” antics of the light aircraft performers.

Those magnificent men and women in their flying machines are often flying purpose-built aircraft created by cramming the most powerful engine available into the smallest, lightest possible airframe.

And in the name of eye-popping roll rates (often greater than one complete 360-degree rotation per second), these airframes are designed to be short and short-winged, light on stability, mostly with tailwheel undercarriages, all of which can make them quite a handful on landing and takeoff.

The excess of power is what makes it possible for these small aircraft to literally “hang on the propellor” maintain tight turns and loops and rapidly build airspeed to maintain safe flight even in the middle of spectacular displays that may appear to border on being out of control.

And display pilots do it with little in the way of mechanical help: there are no autopilots, powered controls, flight computers or ejection seats here, not even a G-suit to help offset the effects of snapping between high positive-G and high negative-G in less than a second.

For many, it is this lack of any artificial barrier between pilot and machine that makes this the purest form of aerobatic flight.

As part of the Friday Night Alight program, Rod Benson Skydive Australia produces one of the more ethereal and highly popular moments in the program, with a night skydive and parachute descent topped off with pyrotechnics.

Rod Benson displays throughout Australia and worldwide, carrying on a tradition started by his father Ben, who began putting his skydiving skills to commercial use in flying flags, company logos and signs on behalf of clients. From father to son, the Benson’s have been part of the Australian International Airshow ever since it’s inception.

Crowd favourites at AIRSHOW, the Scandinavian Airshow Skycats will perform an aerobatic wing-walking act on “Catwalk”, a highly modified Grumman AgCat biplane. In flight the two Skycats will climb around the wings and pose in different positions with names such as Lazy Cat and Super Cat, while the aircraft performs numerous aerobatic manoeuvres such as loops and barrel rolls.

Awesome Aviation’s Mark Jefferies is a former UK Aerobatics champion, having flown more than 130 types of aircraft including Hawker Hunter and BAE Hawk jets. He now flies one of the most highly capable specialist aerobatic aircraft in Australia, the Awesome Extra NG. The Extra NG was unveiled at Oshkosh in July 2019 as a new, all composite, technically advanced and innovative aircraft type. The Awesome Extra NG VH-XEO, serial no NG007, is the first of this type to be imported into Australia.

The Paul Bennet Airshows SkyAces team consists of two to four aircraft performing dazzling formation aerobatics in very close proximity. Not only do the SkyAces performances entail skilful formation loops and rolls but also dynamic head-to-head stunts, which are guaranteed to leave spectators gasping in awe! Pilots Paul Bennet, Glenn Graham, Jesse Jury and Glenn Collins are all qualified to perform the stunts to surface level, giving the audience maximum viewing for the display.

AIR FORCE FAST MOVERS

For many, an airshow isn’t an airshow without the chestrattling thunder of the latest generation Royal Australian Air Force fast jets. Luckily for AIRSHOW 2023 visitors, the Australian Defence Force is determined to show the Australian public the unique flying capabilities of the aircraft that secure our nation, and Avalon is the ideal place to do it.

The Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy and Australian Army will together display or fly more than 20 aircraft, at least one of almost every type operated, from uncrewed aerial vehicles and training helicopters to aerial tankers, transport aircraft and fast jets, including the F-35A Lightning II.

“The Australian International Airshow 2023 provides significant opportunity to display the ADF’s capabilities and future concepts in a collaborative and integrated manner to Government, military allies and partners, Defence industry, and the Australian public,” said an Air Force spokesperson.

They will cover the major tasks performed by ADF aircraft, from air combat to air mobility, strike, reconnaissance and air training.

The flying program will include the Australian Defence Force Showcase, a 60-minute display highlighting ADF capability in a simulated operational environment. This will involve seven aircraft types from the F-35A to Royal Australian Navy MH-60R helicopters, plus ground vehicles and pyrotechnics. It will be the closest most Australians will ever come to seeing these highly capable aircraft in action.

The ADF will also fly solo displays with the MH-60R, F-35A and F/A-18F Super Hornet, with night displays by the C-130J Hercules and E-7A Wedgetail as part of the Friday Night Alight program, and formation aerobatics with the Roulettes display team in its Pilatus PC-21s. But it won’t just be about aircraft. Air Force, Navy and Army will make the point that a crewed, fuelled, armed aircraft on the tarmac is the visible result of a logistics, training and support train that encompasses a myriad of tasks and capabilities.

Australian Army CH-47 Chinooks were a hit in 2019, performing a demonstration insertion and extraction of ground troops in an operational simulation.

From top: The Roulettes formation aerobatic team help inspire the next generation of aviation professionals. Image courtesy of Defence; The Royal Australian Navy’s MH-60R “Romeo” is one of the most advanced military helicopters in the world; The International Military Drone Racing Tournament will be a crowd favourite at AIRSHOW 2023. Image courtesy of Defence.

So alongside the Lightnings, Hornets, Chinooks and Poseidon will be ground displays on vehicles, equipment, and importantly, personnel.

This will include Combat Support elements such as rescue and firefighting services, security, aeromedical evacuation and explosive ordnance. The Air Force Pavilion will feature a museum exhibit highlighting Air Force people throughout history, while the crowd favourite Bone and Drone Zone will host the International Military Drone Racing Tournament, plus Military Working Dog and Australian Border Force Dog displays.

Specialist marquees and displays will highlight sea and land capability, a Tactical Air Operations Tower, phased array radar systems and Air Force and Army Cadets, including the Diamond DA-40 aircraft and glider in which Cadets gain air experience.

And with the new Space Command also on show, Air Force will demonstrate the capability of Australia’s defence force, while offering a pointer to the future.

BLACK EAGLES TO FLY IN AUSTRALIAN FIRST

IN A FIRST FOR AUSTRALIA, THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA AIR FORCE (ROKAF) BLACK EAGLES AEROBATIC TEAM, ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST HIGHLY REGARDED MILITARY JET DISPLAY TEAMS, WILL PERFORM AT THE AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW.

The eight-aircraft Black Eagles team has wowed audiences at recent airshows across Asia, Europe and the United Kingdom, winning both the prestigious King Hussein Memorial Sword and the FRIAT “As the Crow Flies” display awards at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT 2022) in England.

But this will be the first time either the team or its supersonic Korea Aerospace Industries KAI T-50B Golden Eagle jet aircraft have ever displayed in Australia.

The team’s eight distinctive black, white and yellow aircraft are modified versions of the Korea Aircraft Industries T-50 supersonic light trainer and attack aircraft already in service with the ROKAF, with the addition of a highly visible display livery, onboard camera system and display smoke generating equipment.

Their signature move is the “Taegeuk”, in which the team creates the Republic of Korea flag with display smoke. Through its precision formation aerobatics, the team demonstrates the skill and professionalism of the Republic of Korea Air Force and the equipment it operates, providing a window to the public and promoting ROKAF recruitment. It maintains an air display tradition which began in 1953, with a four-aircraft display team flying F-51 Mustang aircraft.

Justin Giddings, CEO of AIRSHOW 2023 organiser AMDA Foundation, said the Black Eagles are an exciting addition to the program.

“The AIRSHOW 2023 team is honoured and excited that the first Black Eagles airshow display ever seen in Australia will be at our event,” he said. “This team is well known internationally for its professional display performance and distinctive aircraft that have not been seen in Australia before. The Black Eagles will add a new level of interest and spectacle for aviation enthusiasts at AIRSHOW 2023.

The Republic of Korea Air Force visited Australia to train as part of Exercise Pitch Black in 2022, and Group Captain David Glasson, the Royal Australian Air Force’s Director of Displays for AIRSHOW 2023 is excited to see them return.

“It’s fantastic to see the Republic of Korea Air Force visiting AIRSHOW 2023 for the first time, and we’re excited to see what we know will be a very professional display from their Black Eagles team” he said.

E VENT SITE MAP

C�A�G���

LO���R�

IN���M��I��

ME���

(AC���D��E�

ME��H����SE

RO��� �US���L�A� ��� FO���

RO��� �US���L�A� ��V�

S�O��N� ��E�

TA���C (S�A��C & ��YI�� ��R��AF� – PU���C ��E��N�)

UN���� G�O��D /

F�A�K�c�AM����CA��

AIRSHOW TO CELEBRATE THE

SPORT AND LOVE

OF LIGHT AIRCRAFT

The 2023 Australian International Airshow (AIRSHOW 2023) will celebrate Australia’s general aviation and airsport communities, with up to 180 aircraft on display and more than 30 aviation groups, associations and museums represented.

New for 2023, the General Aviation and Airsport precinct will include a host of private vintage, classic and modern light aircraft, a live build of a Zenith CH750 aircraft, historic engine runs, restored military aircraft cockpits and a conference facility in which associations are invited to run their own seminar sessions at no cost.

In and around the new precinct, more than 30 organisations, from the Antique Aeroplane Association of Australia, Airtourer Association and Angel Flight, to Recreational Aviation Australia, the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia and Victorian Model Aeronautical Association, will display in a dedicated exhibition precinct provided at no cost as part of the Airshow’s contribution to the development of Australian aviation.

They will present a broad cross section of aviation activities for recreation and commercial operation, including seaplanes, gliding, ballooning, museums and aircraft restoration, women in flight, safety and attracting youth to aircraft engineering.

As part of the event, the Australian Sport Rotorcraft Association will also celebrate the centenary of the first successful flight of the autogiro, which took place in Madrid, Spain on 9 January 1923.

Visiting pilots are being encouraged to park their aircraft in the precinct, as part of the wider aircraft exhibition that will also include around 40 aircraft from manufacturers such as Cessna, Cirrus, Diamond, Sling, Foxbat, Tecnam, Robinson, Piper and Quest, across the event.

Credit: Nigel Pittaway

“We want to feature general aviation and airsport and show the general public that this sector of aviation is exciting, advanced and innovative,” said Justin Giddings, CEO of AIRSHOW 2023 organiser AMDA Foundation. “We hear a lot about larger commercial and military aircraft, but a lot of Australia’s economy in agriculture, tourism, transport and flying training depend on general aviation aircraft. The general aviation and airsport sectors have been pioneers of new technologies in recent years, in everything from materials to avionics, fuels, electric propulsion, licensing and construction methods.

“And this is still the sector of aviation that often provides that first connection with an aircraft, the first spark that leads someone to pursue a career in the industry. So it is an important part of the future development of the Australian aviation community.”

From opposite page, counterclockwise:

Cirrus Aircraft is one of many general aviation manufacturers displaying at the Australian International Airshow. The Wings And Wheels display combines the best of classic and vintage cars and aircraft1.

Manufacturers see AIRSHOW 2023 as an important market place for general aviation.

From Light Sport aircraft like this Bristell to heavy iron like the United States Air Force KC-135, AIRSHOW 2023 has something for every aviation enthusiast.

The Airtourer Association is one of more than 30 aviation related groups that have been invited to display at the Australian International Airshow.

HELP TO BUILD A REAL AIRCRAFT AT AIRSHOW

Australian company SWISH Projects is offering AIRSHOW 2023 visitors a chance to do their part in the build of a real aircraft at the event.

Located in the Southern Precinct, a new specialised area of AIRSHOW 2023 designed to highlight Australian aviation associations, vintage, sport and general aviation, SWISH Projects will be building a Zenith CH750 Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) aircraft.

And visitors will be invited to roll up their sleeves and play a part in building the aircraft.

The Zenith CH750 was developed as an “off-airport” short take-off and landing kit aircraft to fulfill the demanding requirements of both sport pilots and first-time builders. It is described as combining the features and advantages of a “real” aeroplane with the short-field capabilities of “ultralight” aircraft.

AUSTRALIAN MILITARY HISTORY

While AIRSHOW 2023 will highlight the fast jets and sophisticated specialist aircraft operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy and Army, it will also acknowledge the generations that have gone before.

The Supermarine Spitfire and North American P-51 Mustang (and its Australian-built cousin, the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation CA-18) were the “fast jets” of their day.

As a revolutionary new fast bomber, the English Electric Canberra broke speed records. The Government Aircraft Factory Canberras, built right here on Avalon Airport, served the Royal Australian Air Force in Vietnam. In 2019, Defence entered into an agreement with the Temora Aviation Museum to transfer ownership of 11 historically significant aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force. The aircraft, an English Electric Canberra, De Havilland Vampire, Gloster Meteor, two Supermarine Spitfires, a Lockheed Hudson, CAC Wirraway and Boomerang, Cessna A-37B Dragonfly, De Havilland DH-82A Tiger Moth and a Ryan STMS2 are located and maintained by the expert staff at the Temora Aviation Museum. They are administered by the reformed 100 Squadron.

And thanks to this bold move to secure Australia’s aviation heritage, the majority of these aircraft will appear at AIRSHOW 2023.

Not only will AIRSHOW 2023 feature Australia’s only flying Canberra, it will also be one of the few chances to have two Canberras on the same airfield. Avalon’s own non-flying Australian-built Canberra, A84-232, will be the “Gate Guardian” star of the show after a renovation that saw the aircraft stripped to bare metal for a repaint.

This display will feature firsts and film stars. The heritage flight CA-16 Wirraway trainer was the first ex-military aircraft allowed to fly on the Australian civil register, while the Spitfire MkXVI played a minor role in two famous feature films.

The collection of aircraft will also illustrate Australia’s varied aircraft manufacturing history, including two indigenous trainer types, several Australian-built versions of overseas designs, and others imported directly from the countries in which they were made.

For those who still appreciate the roar of the Rolls Royce Merlin, the thunder of a big radial engine and the sun sparkling on propellor blades, the Australian military heritage program will not disappoint.

The following offers a snapshot, but not the entire list, of heritage aircraft flying at AIRSHOW 2023.

CA-16 WIRRAWAY

The heritage fleet Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation Wirraway VH-BFF has had a colourful life, built before the end of World War II, received by 5 Squadron on the island of Bougainville just months before the war’s end and dismantled in 1946. Rebuilt in 1975, it later became the first exmilitary aircraft permitted to fly on the Australian Civil Aviation Register. The aircraft is painted in the colours it wore on Bougainville in 1945.

CAC CA-18 MK.23 MUSTANG

The CAC CA-18 Mustang A68-170 is a part of the Royal Australian Air Force Museum’s heritage aircraft fleet. Received from CAC Fisherman’s Bend on 23 February 1950, A68-170 had a relatively short operational life in the Royal Australian Air Force before being approved for disposal, reprieved and finally issued to the Royal Australian Air Force Museum in 1970 in parts. Restoration to flying condition was completed in 1999.

SUPERMARINE SPITFIRE MK XVI

This Supermarine Mk XVI Spitfire is an ex-wartime example, built at Vickers Armstrong’s Castle Bromwich “shadow factory”, near Birmingham, in late 1944. The aircraft is famous in film, used as a film prop for the 1955 classic film Reach For The Sky and as a spares source for flying Spitfires in the 1967 film Battle of Britain. It passed through several hands before completion of the restoration in 1989. Temora Aviation Museum acquired the aircraft in 2006 and the aircraft is now part of the RAAF 100 Squadron Temora Historic Flight Collection.

ENGLISH ELECTRIC CANBERRA

The 100 Squadron Canberra is a British-built English Electric Canberra that finished Royal Air Force service in 1991 before joining the UK airshow circuit. Temora Aviation Museum acquired the aircraft in May 2001 and repainted the aircraft to represent those flown by the Royal Australian Air Force 2 Squadron during the Vietnam conflict. This is the only English Electric Canberra flying in Australia.

CESSNA A-37 DRAGONFLY

After the fall of South Vietnam in 1975, the 100 Squadron Cessna A-37B aircraft was one of 95 captured and incorporated into the Vietnamese People’s Air Force. In 1989 Colin Pay and Noel Vinson found several Dragonflys in Vietnam. Ten were brought to Australia and fully restored to flying condition, with two later donated to the Temora Aviation Museum. After extensive restoration work on VH-XVA by the Temora Aviation Museum’s Engineering Team, the aircraft returned to flight in 2018 and regularly participates in Aircraft Showcase Days.

RINGMASTERS PREPARE FOR AIRSHOW 2023

For those who attend the Australian International Airshow (AIRSHOW 2023) at Avalon Airport and witness one of the world’s greatest air displays, the flying spectacular may seem effortless.

According to the Ringmasters of AIRSHOW 2023, Dave Walton and Sophia (Soph) Lazarou, this perception of ease is one the measures of a successful flying display.

“It’s all about doing the best we can in the safest possible manner and that’s what I get a kick out of — a show everyone enjoys and everything’s gone well,” said Dave.

The role of an airshow Ringmaster, officially titled Display Coordinator, is to plan and execute an exhilarating but ultimately safe, flying display.

The name gives apt reference to the leader of a circus but according to the AIRSHOW 2023 team, it is simply an amusing name for what is essentially an admin-based job.

“Behind the scenes we are doing lots of paperwork to establish that the pilots and aeroplanes are safe and airworthy, they have insurance and are suitable to fly,” said Dave.

“Then during the week of the show we scrutinise them to make sure they fly well and safely in front to the public.”

Dave and deputy Soph are a first-time Ringmaster team for AIRSHOW this year but have a long history with the Avalon event, both starting as volunteers in 2007.

“I was in my third year of an aviation degree at university, so I volunteered in pilot briefing,” said Soph, who is now a full-time pilot on the Airbus A330. “I really enjoyed volunteering in 2007, and over subsequent years I only missed one or two shows depending on what job in aviation I was chasing,” she said.

Based in the United Kingdom, Dave brings twenty years of international airshow experience to his role as Ringmaster, with director credits including RIAT (Royal International Air Tattoo), Bournemouth, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia among others.

“My dad was in the (Royal) Air Force so I grew up on Air Force stations around the UK, and as he had worked for RIAT when it was called IAT in the seventies and eighties, I effectively grew up around airshows,” he said.

Dave initially volunteered at AIRSHOW 2007 before moving into the Ringmaster team for subsequent events. But it wasn’t until he and Soph worked together in 2019 that Soph wondered if she could perform the role too.

“We were working really closely with the Ringmasters and at the end of the show I said to Dave, do you think I can do what you do? And without hesitation he said yes,” she said.

“I jumped at the opportunity.”

Soph travelled to the UK in 2019 to work with Dave and his team at the Dunsfold, Bournemouth, and Southport airshows. After observing the Singapore Airshow in 2020, she returned to the UK to undertake mentoring and training via Dave’s company, TSA Consulting, which provides Ringmasters with a Flying Display Director (FDD) accreditation.

“I flew back to Australia and then the world stopped,” she said referencing the start of the global pandemic in 2020.

Post-pandemic, Soph has worked closely with Dave while juggling her full-time pilot schedule to put her FDD training to work in preparation for AIRSHOW 2023.

Australia has a small air display industry and therefore has no specific framework on qualifying as an FDD for up-and-coming Ringmasters. As two of only 31 currently accredited FDDs in the UK, Dave and Soph have a qualification that adheres to the rigorous conditions that regulate the hundreds of air displays in the UK each year.

“Safety is the background to everything we do,” said Dave.

“It is our number one role. While aesthetics play an important part so the public sees a tight running order

and an inspiring show that flows well, the reason we are here and the reason I am involved is because first and foremost; it has to be safe.”

In 2023, Dave and Soph will work alongside the Royal Australian Air Force Ringmaster team that supervises the military aircraft displays, to bring a vibrant and refreshed air display to the skies over Avalon.

Between pilot briefings, logging paperwork, scheduling timeslots and directing the airshow, Dave and Soph will still make sure they take a moment to experience AIRSHOW 2023, noting previous favourites.

“The Japanese Self Defense Force Taiko drumming team is one of the best performances I have seen at the airshow,” said Soph.

“That’s what I love about Avalon, you can go into the defence exposition halls, you can see the future of the space industry in Australia, you can see schools and universities who are building up industry in this country, you can see aircraft and manufacturers from Australia and overseas and you can watch a flying display, but you also get this huge cultural and arts aspect.”

And when asked for a teaser on what we can expect to see in 2023?

“Expect to see aeroplanes made from wood and fabric, all the way up to F-35 and everything in between. We will have something from every decade of the last 100 years of flight and that really is unusual and quite special,” Dave said.

“From 60 knots to 600 knots, we’ve got everything.”

Left: Sophia Lazarou in planning for AIRSHOW 2023 with members of the Republic of Korea Air Force Black Eagles display team. Right: David with team presenting photograph. David Walton has extensive experience as an airshow Ringmaster across the UK, the Middle East and Australia.

PASSING OF THE MICROPHONE: PETER MEEHAN TO LEAD AIRSHOW COMMENTARY TEAM ONE LAST TIME

For more than 30 years, those attending the Australian International Airshow at Avalon (AIRSHOW) have been guided through the flying displays by commentator Peter Meehan OAM.

It would be apt to call Peter the voice of AIRSHOW, a stalwart of the air spectacular who has shared his vast aviation knowledge with the crowds at every event dating back to 1992.

The time has come however for Peter to pass the mic as he prepares for his last AIRSHOW at the end of this month. He will use the 2023 event to introduce 3AW presenter, comedy writer and self-confessed aviation nut, Tony Moclair, as one of the next generation of commentators tasked with continuing Peter’s legacy.

With a deep-seated passion for aviation as a private pilot and a career that is almost written with the role of airshow commentator in mind, Peter has worked as a radio presenter and broadcast journalist for more than

40 years and as Squadron Leader Specialist Reserve, conducted media management for the Australian Defence Force.

He draws on his library of military, aircraft and broadcast knowledge to provide a narrative to AIRSHOW that combines a mix of facts, historical insight, personality and most importantly, the element of silence.

“As the fast jet approaches in formation or solo, no matter if it’s Australian or from other parts of the world, it is time to simply shut up and let the aircraft do the talking,” he said.

Peter first joined the team in 1992 after expressing his interest in getting involved in a new airshow taking place at Avalon Airport.

“I was invited by then CEO, Ian Honnery, to be involved in the commentary and when that time came around, it was a terrific airshow and had lots of content, but it was by today’s standards, in its infancy,” he said.

Over the next 30 years Peter developed his commentary style as AIRSHOW established itself as the largest airshow and industry exposition in the Southern Hemisphere.

He has come very close to perfecting the artform. “Keep brevity in mind, stay away from flowery rhetoric that really means nothing and I can prove that people do not listen to idle chat, they simply don’t.”

“Succinct key messages are the answer to getting everyone’s attention.”

As an avid spectator who has attended every AIRSHOW since its inception, Tony is coming to the commentator role with a solid understanding of what the audience wants.

“I’m very much a fan of Peter’s work,” he said. “The aircraft are the stars of the show, the pilots flying them are the stars of the show and we are just there to give that running commentary, give people information, but also just a little sprinkle of showbiz to the whole thing.”

He said landing the commentator role at AIRSHOW 2023 is a dream come true.

“You couldn’t script anything as magical as this, having been to every one of them. I go religiously and religiously is not casually used,” he said.

Peter and Tony will lead the AIRSHOW commentary team in 2023 with pilot and expert aviation and Defence podcaster, Grant McHerron and award-wining aviation writer and journalist, Angela Stevenson. They will come together to absorb three decades of AIRSHOW experience from Peter and with their own unique flair, ensure the changing of the guard takes place without a blip.

“I’m definitely learning from the best and just to take over that legacy is something I’m extremely proud of,” said Tony.

It will be bittersweet moment for Peter who is philosophical about his AIRSHOW career coming to an end.

“It will be just a terrific exit for me. I’m looking forward to the seamless transition with Tony and the commentary team and the support audio team behind the scenes,” said Peter.

“I feel disappointed but the time has come because of health, age and other things to do. There is a time, there has to be a time,” he said.

Despite the hint of sadness, the excitement for this year’s event is obvious when the conversation returns to the hardware that will be on display.

“The thing I’m really excited about is the demonstration by the (Republic of Korea Air Force) Black Eagles which I think is going to blow people’s socks off,” Tony said.

“That will be in Avalon’s history, I predict it will be one of the highlights of the last 30 plus years. They are going to be out here to impress and they are going to be incredible, I cannot wait.”

Peter said the public will be treated to a comprehensive display by the Royal Australian Air Force.

“The Royal Australian Air Force has never been in a better position to show all of their assets and their hardware as they will at this AIRSHOW,” he said.

“They have every aeroplane to cater for every given situation and they have the electronic warfare intelligence gathering component with the Super Hornet Growler and above all the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which in itself takes an overarching view of the of the battle space.”

Tony agrees and said this is the perfect opportunity for the Australian public to see Air Force aircraft up close and personal, on the ground.

“That’s one of the great thrills of AIRSHOW, getting up close and walking in and around aircraft being operated by our Air Force.”

Grant McHerron

Angela Stevenson

Tony Moclair

Who changes your oil? Modern aircraft like this Royal Australian Air Force F-35 are jam packed with the systems, components and machinery needed to do their job, all of which offers opportunities for Australian industry in manufacture and support.

TO

TAKE AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRY TO THE WORLD,

AVALON BRINGS THE WORLD TO AUSTRALIA

While aviation enthusiasts may wax lyrical about flying agility and speed in airshow displays at the Australian International Airshow & Aerospace and Defence Exposition (AVALON 2023), industry exhibitors and visitors see every aircraft through the lens of its potential as a business opportunity.

The first four days of AVALON are all about the business of aviation, aerospace, space and defence. Closed to the general public, the purpose-built exhibition halls at Avalon Airport become the region’s largest single aerospace industry networking and marketing event.

Every AVALON includes:

• Specialist conferences and symposia, including conferences of major government and defence agencies, industry associations and international organisations;

• An industry exhibition featuring Australian and international companies, with formal business to business and business to government networking programs;

• Australian and international defence, industry, government and scientific delegations, with formal delegation access programs;

• Small business and export development programs;

• A prestigious innovation awards program; and,

• Programs promoting STEM, careers and skilling.

AVALON 2023’s exposition trade days will feature 798 participating exhibitor companies from around the world, visited by thousands of industry representatives and 234 official scientific, military, industry and government delegations from around the world. They come because they are competing for a share in the estimated $24 billion Australian military aerospace market, $43 billion civil aviation and aerospace market, and a burgeoning space industry worth around $4 billion per year, which the Australian Space Agency is working to triple in size by 2030.

Virtually every facet of the aviation, aerospace and defence community is represented, from civil and defence manufacturers, airlines and airports, to air forces, maintainers, operators, regulatory bodies, industry associations, air traffic managers, training schools and universities, specialist suppliers and subcontractors.

So too are the government departments and agencies charged with overseeing and developing Australia’s industry. Defence’s Capability and Sustainment Group (CASG); Defence Science & technology Group (DST): Austrade; Air Services Australia; Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA); the Office of Defence Industry Support (ODIS) and various national and state industry development departments and organisations are all in attendance.

They come for the engagement opportunities created by the sheer concentration of industry, government, defence and academia, where chance conversations can and have led to multi-million dollar contracts and exhibitors speak of transacting more business in one week than they would normally achieve in months.

AVALON is an industry melting pot for sales, product launches, customer relationship development and market research, for seeking out potential suppliers and for studying major competitors.

The event provides unique opportunities for Business to Business (B2B) networking on an industrial scale. Many exhibitors conduct meetings in the security of their own business chalets, while others take advantage of meeting rooms provided by AVALON organiser AMDA Foundation and bodies such as AusIndustry and Austrade. Networking events bring people together for preplanned and ad hoc meetings.

The AVALON App provides a downloadable awareness and engagement tool, including the details of every exhibitor, a means of requesting appointments and schedules for conferences, the exposition and air displays. With much of this information and functionality available well before the event, industry players plan meetings and searches in advance to make the most of their time at AVALON.

Once on site, they walk a 300-strong flight line of the latest light aircraft, business jets, airliners and military aircraft, see some of the world’s most capable aircraft

put through their paces in daily air displays and attend their choice of around 59 separate conferences, symposia and briefings on everything from advanced technologies to airport design, major defence acquisition programs, advanced manufacturing techniques, export opportunities and government regulation. The conferences are a primary source of market intelligence; and speakers and attendees at these events are both clients and influencers.

And the vast majority will be here again for 2023, including major manufacturers such as Airbus, Dassault, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and BAE Systems and suppliers large and small, including many of the Australian companies that together have won more than $1.35 billion worth of work on the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

AVALON also provides a showcase for Australia’s innovators. The AMDA Foundation’s Innovation Awards program will present $100,000 worth of civil and military innovation awards at AVALON 2023, to help celebrate and stimulate Australian innovators.

AVALON also hosts an Innovation Pitchfest, which provides innovators and researchers from Defence, industry and academia with a global stage to present their innovations to potential partners, customers and investors.

AVALON is the practical illustration of AMDA Foundation’s goal: Taking Australia to the world, by bringing the World to Australia.

From top, counterclockwise: AVALON 2023 will be a meeting point for industry, defence, government and academia, engaging those involved in acquiring, designing, manufacturing and supporting civil and military aircraft, space technologies and defence equipment; The AVALON flight line gives industry an opportunity to display the latest advances in general aviation, business jets, helicopters and commercial aircraft; AVALON 2023 conferences are a critical engagement platform for ideas and debate to further Australia’s aviation and aerospace goals; Filling three purpose-built halls, the AVALON 2023 industry exhibition will showcase more than 700 companies; Face to face is still the best way to sell, even if the product is a multimillion dollar helicopter.

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS BRING A DIFFERENT VIEW

As the largest airshow of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, the Australian International Airshow (AIRSHOW) has traditionally attracted visitors from around the world.

Often the visiting aircraft are here supporting diplomatic or government to government interaction, or providing visible support that the relationship between Australia and various allied nations is strong and secure.

Sometimes they can be an aircraft type that the Australian Defence Force is considering acquiring, giving Australian officials an opportunity to get to grips with the aircraft and its capabilities.

And sometimes they are simply the transport for the delegations, diplomats and exhibition materiel arriving to take the opportunity to promote their nation’s abilities and industry to the international audience that AIRSHOW attracts.

AIRSHOW 2023 has attracted a veritable squadron of international visitors, including many aircraft not often seen in Australia.

From Papua New Guinea’s Pac 750XL turboprop (with a range of around 2000km) to the might of the US Air Force Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy (the largest aircraft attending AIRSHOW 2023, with a range of nearly 13,000km and a payload of around 127 tonnes), every aircraft has a role to play in the defence force of its host nation.

General Dynamics F-16 C/D Fighting Falcon

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is the largest regional operator of the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, flying 60 of the advanced C/D version. They are armed with US advanced air to air missiles, laser guided munitions and conformal fuel tanks to provide extra range. The RSAF F-16 will be an unusual visitor to the AIRSHOW 2023 static display.

Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy

The Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy is a re-engined, updated version of the aircraft type that originally entered service with the US Air Force in 1970. The modernisation plan included switching to commercial General Electric CF6 engines, and upgrading avionics, navigation, communications and autopilot. The upgraded aircraft saw a 22 per cent increase in thrust, a 30 per cent shorter takeoff roll and a 58 per cent faster climb rate. At the same time it made the aircraft quieter, easier to maintain and cheaper to operate.

Boeing AH-64D/E Apache

Australia has agreed to acquire 29 new Boeing Apache AH-64E attack helicopters for the Australian Army, so it makes sense that Australians will be able to see one of the breed as a static display at AIRSHOW 2023. As arguably the most potent attack helicopter in the world, the Apache provides security to ground forces, fixed based operations and aerial escorts; conducts reconnaissance to provide situational awareness for ground forces and higher headquarters; and decisively engages single or multiple enemy combatants to allow freedom of manoeuvre or protection.

KAWASAKI C-2

Operated by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), the Kawasaki C-2 is a domestically developed and manufactured Japanese transport aircraft, which has been in service since 2017. Packed with the most advanced technologies, the C-2 flies faster and achieves greater range than the earlier C-1 and other transport planes owned by the JASDF. With a cargo hold larger than those of the others, it can accommodate heavier loads, thereby fulfilling a wide range of missions, such as international cooperative operations. This will be the second time the Kawasaki C-2 has attended AIRSHOW.

PAC 750XL

Papua New Guinea regained a fixed wing aviation component for its defence force in 2022, with a stored a Pac 750XL aircraft returning to service with its Air Transport Wing. The PAC 750 is a singleengine turboprop aircraft designed and built in New Zealand. Capable of landing and taking off on short runways, the aircraft is ideal for Papua New Guinea’s mountainous terrain. The PNG PAC 750XL will be on static display at AIRSHOW 2023.

OFFICE IN THE SKY

AIRSHOW 2023 will showcase some of the most capable modern business aircraft available in the world today, in a region which by its very nature is ideal for the flexibility and speed these unique aircraft offer.

Major manufacturers who will be bringing their business aircraft to AIRSHOW 2023 include Cessna (Textron), Dassault, Embraer and Gulfstream. All are well established leaders in their fields.

Regardless of the public myth of business jets being just a perk for highly paid executives, most of these aircraft are flown as tools, not toys.

According to data from the US National Business Aviation Association, nearly half of business jet flights are not carrying a senior executive at all, but are instead being used to ferry teams of technical personnel, middle managers and customers.

On more than half their flights, operators say the business jet enables them to keep business schedules that would not be possible through airlines or other forms of transport. In 2018 more than 40 per cent of business jet destinations did not have a commercial airline service.

And heading to your destination in what is essentially a flying office rather than an airline seat has benefits too:

passengers on business aircraft spend, on average, nearly two-thirds of their time working and around two thirds also say they are more productive on business aircraft flights than they are in the office.

To perform their point-to-point business roles, business jets are among the most advanced aircraft in the sky, often flying higher, further and faster than the airlines. They incorporate advanced systems such as digital flight controls, vision systems that help pilots “see” airports in low light and sensors that alert a pilot when their approach to a runway is too steep or too fast.

The following is a snapshot of some of the business jets that will be on show at AIRSHOW 2023. But please note, as working aircraft these jets may not stay for the whole show.

Most manufacturers will bring two aircraft, a long-haul globetrotting larger aircraft, and a medium range aircraft used more often for regional flights.

Dassault Falcon 8X

A returning visitor to AIRSHOW, Dassault’s longhaul 8X can fly eight passengers and three crew nearly 12,000km. That’s London to Singapore, or

Embraer Phenom 300E

The Embraer Phenom 300E has been the bestselling light business jet for 10 years running, and, is the fastest and longest-ranged single-pilot jet in production. Single pilot means cheaper operating costs, plus the ability for owners to pilot the aircraft themselves. And “light” doesn’t have to mean limited: the Phenom 300E can fly from Perth to Melbourne, Brisbane or Jakarta in one hop. Embraer is also bringing its smaller sevenpassenger Phenom 100EV entry level jet.

Cessna Citation Latitude

Cessna sold its first Citation business jet in 1972. In 2022 it delivered the 8000th. The worldwide Citation fleet has now surpassed 41 million flight hours. Now part of Textron Aviation, the range includes everything from single-pilot personal jets to the Latitude midsize jet (seen here) and the flagship “super-midsize” Longitude, with transatlantic range. AIRSHOW 2023 will feature a Citation Latitude and a Citation CJ3+.

Gulfstream G550

Gulfstream is renowned for its long-legged globetrotting “G” series, one of the best-selling business jets of all time, despite being at the premium end of the market. The G550 debuted in 2003, and by the end of 2019 Gulfstream had delivered 600. Demonstrating different products for different markets, Gulfstream will also bring its “super-midsize” G280.

Piaggio P180 Avanti II

Italian manufacturer Piaggio will bring its rare Avanti II turboprop business aircraft to AIRSHOW for static display. The revolutionary Avanti uses a forward canard wing, moving the main wing and its two rear-facing propellors well aft to avoid encroaching on cabin space. The result is an aircraft which Avanti says is faster than many business jets, with lower operating costs.

AIRSHOW ENGAGES THE NEXT GENERATION

As industries with literally thousands of paths and professions, aviation, aerospace and space are prime targets for today’s youth when seeking a career, and mid-career professionals seeking a change.

AIRSHOW 2023 is providing formal Careers and Skills programs to help potential recruits at various stages of their education and experience, with major programs running across the event.

AEROSPACE STUDENT PROFESSIONAL

For tertiary students looking at an aerospace career, the Royal Aeronautical Society, in conjunction with AIRSHOW 2023 organiser AMDA Foundation, is presenting the Aerospace Student Professional 2023 (ASP) Program.

An Aerospace Student Professional (ASP) is an Undergraduate, Postgraduate University or TAFE student in an aerospace engineering or aviation sciences/ technology/management course/program, who actively shows a keen interest in pursuing a career in the aerospace, aviation, or defence sectors.

Under the scheme, students in their final years of professional study have applied to approach and interact with the defence industry during the dedicated industry days of AIRSHOW 2023.

ASP participants will be briefed on aviation and aerospace career opportunities and taught networking

skills to encourage them to connect with industry onsite and pursue their final studies and progression into a career.

AVIATION LEARNING PATHS PROGRAM

For up to 600 secondary school students, Friday’s Aviation Learning Paths program will be an opportunity to hear briefings on career opportunities from companies such as the Royal Australian Air Force, Qantas, Lockheed Martin and RMIT University, before visiting the industry exhibition, aircraft and Air Force displays including Space Command.

5TH GENERATION WORKFORCE SKILLS

On Thursday 2 March Kinexus Australia, in partnership with AMDA Foundation Limited, will host the 5th Generation Workforce Seminar at AIRSHOW 2023. The seminar enables cross-industry collaboration to secure the workforce of the future. It will cover:

• Critical and emerging skills required by the defence sector

• How the defence sector will access those skills

• How those skills can be developed

• Risks and obstacles the defence sector faces in achieving objectives, growth and workforce goals.

TECH ZONE (ALL AGES)

Technology enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to visit the Tech Zone on the AIRSHOW 2023 weekend public access days to participate in fun activities aimed at encouraging a passion for STEM.

Kids can take a selfie dressed as a Qantas pilot, learn about robotics and artificial intelligence from RMIT or build a rocket with Boeing.

The Tech Zone is open to all attendees on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 March.

AIRSHOW 2023 STUDENT FRIENDLY STANDS

Careers and Skills participants can make the most of their time at AIRSHOW 2023 with a map of Student Friendly stands and exhibits to visit throughout the week.

A Student Friendly exhibition stand will have a point of contact available to discuss career opportunities within the organisation with students that may approach them.

BITS AND PIECES

AIRSHOW 2023 IS A THOUSAND GREAT STORIES ROLLED IN TO ONE EVENT. HERE ARE JUST THREE OF THE THINGS VISITORS WILL SEE AT THIS SHOW THAT ILLUSTRATE WHAT THIS WEEK IS ALL ABOUT.

AVALON HISTORY CONNECTION GUARDS THE GATE

Nestled just inside the main airshow entrance gate, the retired Mk 20 Canberra bomber is now resting on the very airfield on which it was built in 1956.

Canberra A84-232 served with 2 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force in Vietnam. After retirement it was prominent for years as a “gate guardian” at Avalon before being refurbished and repainted in time for AIRSHOW 2021, which was unfortunately unable to go ahead as a result of the COVID pandemic. The Canberra’s new pristine exterior, faithful to the paint scheme it wore on operational service in Vietnam, will finally be seen by the general public as part of AIRSHOW 2023.

JAPANESE CULTURE TAKES TO THE TARMAC

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) will arrive at AIRSHOW 2023 with its own cheer squad, in the form of a traditional Japanese Taiko Drum Team. The spectacular drumming style is something to behold, particularly when performed on the tarmac under the wing of the JASDF C2 transport aircraft.

A CENTURY OF ROTORCRAFT

January 9 this year saw the Centenary of the first flight of the autogyro, an aircraft type Invented by Spanish engineer Juan de la Cierva, where an unpowered main rotor provides lift, with a conventional propellor providing forward motion.

Three Cierva C30 Gyroplanes were imported into Australia in 1935. One example, VH-USR, was used by the Royal Australian Air Force at Laverton as a trials aircraft prior to the introduction of its first helicopter, the S51 Dragonfly. VH-USR has been preserved and can be seen at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney.

The Australian Sport Rotorcraft Association, displaying in the General Aviation and Air Sport precinct at AIRSHOW 2023, will be more than happy to introduce interested visitors to the world of rotary flight.

Your reliable partner for aerospace and defence

For more than 150 years, DB Schenker has pushed the limits of what's possible in the logistics and supply chain management industry.

With dedicated vertical market focus, DB Schenker provides integrated transport and logistics solutions from military and commercial aviation.

We offer best in class service to Aircraft Operators, OEM's and MRO's which rely on our supply chain services for Purchase Order as well as Repair Order Management. We beat the clock with our 24/7 AOG service to keep your aircraft flying. We are committed to being a flexible, value -added logistics provider for both the aerospace and defence industries.

Visit us at Stand 1A32 at the AVALON 2023 Airshow!

www.dbschenker.com.au