110 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets were in high spirits and brimming with excitement as they participated in a helicopter experience flight while out on a bivouac at Yeates Creek south of Bowen over the weekend. 33 of the cadets and staff attending the activity were lucky enough to enjoy a flight over the property they were using for their survival training activity.
During the activity the cadets of different stages were learning fieldcraft, navigation and survival skills to help them in the future. The senior cadets were also taught methods to improve their chance of survival if ever in an emergency. Skills taught included the use of ground to air signals, shelter and campcraft, improvised fire lighting methods as well as techniques for gathering food and water in the bush.
The senior cadets had to set up a landing zone for the helicopter including smoke signals and ground to air signals to indicate they required food and medical supplies in their mock ‘survival situation’. Chief Pilot of Helibiz, Jenna Ryan was guided in by the smoke signals and flares before landing the Robinson R44 on the beach in the Landing Zone the cadets had set up prior. It was amazing for the cadets to see everything put in place by the survival section which enabled the pilot to find us on the beach and land safely”; said Flying Officer (AAFC) Adam Bradley, Commanding Officer of 110 Squadron Bowen.
Cadet Corporal Craig Dorrian who was part of the Survival section on the activity made comment that “putting our training in to a practical application gave us all a sense of urgency and determination to get it right as it was affecting all of the cadets who were looking forward to a helicopter flight. When the helicopter landed I felt a sense of accomplishment for the effort”.
“Helibiz have provided us with another fantastic service for our cadets; we are very thankful for the support that Des, Jenna and the crew have given us over past years. This activity was a great success thanks to their work. Not many Squadrons around Australia ever have the opportunity to fly over the properties they use for field activities” said Flying Officer (AAFC) Bradley.
“Some Squadrons participate solely in field activities; others concentrate more on aviation and flying. This weekend our Squadron accomplished both on an activity enjoyed by all.” he said.
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