Avalon 2025 is up, up and away

THE Avalon Australian International Airshow has taken to the skies, with a jam packed program of everything that loops, hovers and flies, as well as an abundance of fun on the ground.

Avalon 2025 began with four trade days, showcasing the best of Australian aviation and the defence industry on an international stage, and opens to the public from today (Friday, March 28) until Sunday, March 30.

A media preview day held on Friday last week showed off the F-35A Lightning, MH-60R Seahawk and Roulettes.

The program will feature flying displays from an impressive array of aircraft, including the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F/A-18F Super Hornet, the U.S Air Force’s F-22A Raptor and C-17 Globemaster III, and many more. The Australian Army Parachute Team “The Red Berets” will also perform a freefall parachute drop.

A selection of historical aircraft will be both on display and in the skies, including the 100 Squadron CA25 Winjeel, Spitfire VIII and P-51 Mustang.

Visitors at the airshow will also be able to see the Antique Aeroplane Association of Australia’s own “Frozen Five” Tiger Moth formation team, which will take to the air as the Tiger Moth celebrates 100 years in flight.

Each of the public days will see Supercars Champion Will Brown and former top gun pilot Matt Hall go head to head in the ultimate race, as they put their vehicles of choice to the test and see whether a Supercar or an air racing plane would win in a high-octane contest.

Paul Bennett Airshows will again feature with their feats of aerobatic performance on the daily program.

Speaking at the media preview day, RAAF Air Commodore Scott Winchester, director general of the airshow, said Avalon 2025 was all about showcasing RAAF’s capabilities, equipment and most importantly, its people.

“It’s a great opportunity for the public to meet and talk with our people who do a wide range of different jobs in Defence, learn more about the career opportunities available, and see how passionate Defence people are about their jobs,” he said.

AMDA Foundation chief executive officer Justin Giddings said Avalon 2025 had something for everyone, whether they were “a lifelong aviation enthusiast, a family seeking an unforgettable day out, or simply someone who loves an awe-inspiring spectacle”.

Transportation options to the airshow include public transport via the V/Line train to Lara station and a shuttle bus, park and ride options for attendees from both Melbourne and Geelong, and parking on site (which must be pre-paid).

For more information and the full program, head to airshow.com.au