Niddrie Squadron were recently fortunate to have a visit from two of the organisers of the Avalon International Airshow who showed some insights into what it takes to put on such a large aviation event. The visits were possible due to a Squadron connection working for AMDA and 2nd Officer Duyvestyn also working at the airshow prior to and during the event.

Warwick Renton and Des Joyce from the AMDA Foundation came to the squadrons parade night and showed a presentation to the squadron about AMDA. The AMDA Foundation is an organisation who run and organise some of the largest expos and events for the defence and aerospace industry, one of which is the Avalon International Airshow.

The squadron heard about how much behind the scenes work goes in to co-ordinating and running the $35M airshow and were also shown some slides of the different parts of the airshow; the trade days, flying program and all the different entertainment that was going to be held during the show. The cadets were enthralled and every time a plane appeared on the slideshow an in-depth discussion was held on its origin and many other details of the plane. The cadets also heard an early indication of what planes would be coming to the airshow this year.

In the days leading up to the airshow the squadron was also paid a visit by Squadron Leader Ash Wright, who is an air traffic control manager for the RAAF. Ash gave a talk to the squadron about what’s involved in managing and running the air traffic control side of the airshow. Ash was so impressed by the squadron and the Air League in general that he is considering taking his own son to join his nearest squadron in South Australia.

The cadets from Niddrie squadron asked a lot of questions during both presentations and surprised the speakers with their knowledge and enthusiasm for all things aviation. All the presenters were so impressed, they have promised to come back in 2 years’ time prior to the next Avalon Airshow with even more behind the scenes information and access.