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Tuesday, 8 May 2012
Page: 4234

HMAS Sydney

(Question No. 938)

Mr Haase asked Minister for Defence, in writing, on 21 March 2012:

(a) Why was the commemorative service for the seventieth anniversary of the sinking of the HMAS Sydney (II), held on 19 November 2011, denied a request for a flypast by the Australian Air Force?

Mr Stephen Smith: The answer to the honourable member’s question is as follows:

The Royal Australian Air Force was unable to support the flypast request for the commemorative service for the seventieth anniversary of the sinking of the HMAS Sydney (II) owing to the unavailability of aircraft in Western Australia at the time. The request was considered by both Number 2 Flying Training School and Number 79 Squadron. These two squadrons operate the only two aircraft types in Western Australia - the PC-9/A and the Hawk 127.

Number 2 Flying Training School was extensively committed to the training of two pilot courses. There was no capacity to support other activities outside of course commitments. To conduct rehearsals and the flypast would have impacted significantly on the flying training program.

Number 79 Squadron aircraft availability at the time was limited due to engine maintenance issues. A program had been put in place to conserve flying hours to allow the Squadron to continue to provide essential flying training and support to the operational priorities for Army and Navy.

Use of an aircraft from an Air Force Base outside of Western Australia was also considered. At the time all other likely aircraft were tasked in support of Operation RESOLUTE and were located elsewhere. Given the significant costs involved in providing an aircraft for a single event, the decision was taken that a Royal Australian Air Force aircraft would not be provided.