There were big smiles all round when four air crew from 723 Squadron dropped in for a special visit to children from Darwin’s family cancer charity Camp Quality.
The Squadron’s AS350 Squirrel helicopter landed before a delighted crowd of children, parents and volunteers at the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre ahead of a period of concentrated training in the Darwin area.
Lieutenant James Hawley, the Squadron’s Maritime Aviation Warfare Instructor said the visit to Camp Quality against the backdrop of the Centre’s impressive collection of aircraft was a indeed a special one.
“I’ve really enjoyed the school visits I’ve done with the Squadron in the past but today’s visit was extra special and a lot of fun, ” LEUT Hawley said.
“There was a little trepidation at first but the kids really warmed up to us.”
“With perhaps a little less bravado than some, their interest was genuine and they were absolutely delighted to see the aircraft and talk about the bits and pieces onboard.”
Five Squirrel helicopters, normally based at HMAS Albatross in Nowra NSW have arrived in Darwin to participate in concentrated training with the Navy’s minor war vessels including locally based Armidale Class Patrol Boats.
“Working with these boats can be very dynamic and as a Maritime Aviation Warfare Instructor, I am looking forward to the complicated scenarios that they bring to the table.”
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our junior air crew to hone their tactical skills.”
Camp Quality is the adopted charity of HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin’s home port of the Armidale Class Patrol Boats.
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Naval Today Staff , May 15, 2012; Image: Australian Navy