Despite not yet having a drivers’ license, Australian Air Force Cadets perform magnificently in flying competitions. Cadets competed in the National Flying Competition in November last year.
Squadron Leader (AAFC) Craig Fechner said the level of competition was extremely high. “Most of the cadets do not yet have their drivers’ license, so to see such a high calibre of young men and women competing was extremely rewarding,” Squadron Leader Fechner said. “There can only be one winner for each category, but all participants should be proud of the high standards they set.
“We are also delighted with QANTAS’ sponsorship of the competition, which meant that each winner received a scholarship to assist with their flying training.”
This was the first time the newly opened Bathurst Aviation Centre was used for the National Aviation Competition, after its official opening a few months earlier.
THE WINNERS:
Fysh-McGuiness Trophy (QANTAS Founders) for the Best Powered Cadet:
Lance Cadet Benjamin Traplin
Number 402 Squadron
KJ Broomhead Cup – for Best Gliding Cadet: Cadet Corporal James Spearpoint
Number 335 Squadron
QANTAS Cup for the Best Wing: Number 3 Wing
Rawdon Middleton VC Trophy: Powered: Lance Cadet Keelan Robinson
Photos by Leading Seaman Peter Thompson
Gliding:
Number 338 Squadron
Cadet Corporal Vladislav Zhelezarov Number 609 Squadron