The roar of car engines wasn't the only sound drawing crowds at the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. The ADF delivered a powerful demonstration of precision, heritage and innovation - both in the air and on the ground.
Six aircraft from the RAAF Roulettes sliced through the sky in tight formation. The team's signature aerobatics thrilled spectators as the pilots performed intricate manoeuvres, twisting and rolling while enduring forces of up to six Gs, their wings sometimes just three metres apart.
"Flying in the Roulettes requires absolute trust in your teammates and the training we've received," Roulettes pilot, Flight Lieutenant Lucas Grote, said.
"When people see the precision and professionalism in the sky, they're seeing the result of years of dedication and world-class training across the ADF."
The aerial spectacle continued with a dramatic flypast by heritage aircraft from 100 Squadron, celebrating Australia's rich aviation history. The vintage CAC Mustang and Supermarine Spitfire Mk VIII aircraft roaring above the circuit offered racegoers a rare glimpse of the machines that helped shape Australia's military aviation legacy.
Executive Officer of 100 Squadron, Squadron Leader Samuel Da Graca Costa, said that for many people, it was a moment of connection with Air Force's history.
"The heritage flypast symbolises the legacy of the Air Force and the incredible skill and dedication of the men and women who have served before us," Squadron Leader Da Graca Costa said.
'Being able to encourage young people to join and do something they love is the best feeling for me.'
On the ground, the ADF's interactive displays proved just as popular. Visitors tested their flying skills through the helicopter and drone simulators, giving them a virtual taste of piloting a military aircraft while learning about the science and technology behind aviation.
Flight Lieutenant Jake Dell-O'Sullivan, of the Air Force Drone Racing Association, said that people at the simulator stand lit up when they realised they could experience what flying might be like.
"I enjoy demonstrating the high-speed world of drone racing competition, where pilots wearing first-person-view video goggles guide drones through obstacle courses at speeds approaching 200 kilometres per hour," he said.
Nearby, Defence careers specialists shared insights into life in the ADF.
Navy Lieutenant Georgia Chaffey said that being at the event was a great way to show the next generation that careers in aviation, engineering and technology are within reach.
"Being able to encourage young people to join and do something they love is the best feeling for me," she said.
Together, the aerial displays and interactive experiences showcased the skill, innovation and professionalism that define the Australian Defence Force - both on the track and far above it.
