My Aussie Trip...

[Bub]

Well I'm gonna go over the 10 days of my trip, each day will be one post and will have 3-4 pics of that day (except one day which will have one).

Day One - Saturday 17th April 2004

Well this day started with me getting up at 02:00 for a 04:30 start at work. I got up a little earlier than usual because I had to pack a few last minute things and also pack the car. Once at work had a fun action packed day as Christchurch and Auckland airports were closed due to fog. Therefore we had lengthly delays domesticaly and even had some international flights diverted here (3-4x737's, and 2x767's (one from Japan and the other from Hong Kong)). Our airport can handle 767's but no 767 regularly flies here.

After all that fun at 13:00 I finished work got changed and lugged my gear around to the check in for the Pacific Blue flight to Sydney. The flight then took off at about 15:50 and arrived in Sydney at some time in the 17:00 (local time) hour zone. After picking up our rental vans we drove to RAAF Base Richmond with an un scheduled detour through the CBD (opps). Then went out for KFC and preparde our uniforms for the following day. I finally got to bed at 00:00 local time (02:00 NZ time), so I begun my trip with a 24hr day...



ZK-NCG AirNZ 767 in the LOTR paint scheme. I think this one is from Hong Kong...
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/17-4-2004_1.jpg

"Crash" who has an interesting choice of magazines...
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/17-4-2004_2.jpg

Sydney as we came into land on runway 07...
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/17-4-2004_3.jpg

[Bubblehead]

You wouldn't think from looking at that last picture that we are in the middle of a drought.

[stefcheng]

ooo water, lots and lots of water... weeeeee

[Kass]

mmmmm water.. water is good.

Sounds good do far bubbles :)

[Lettie]

Keep em coming.. keep em coming... HURRY UP!!! i like pcitures.. Oh sooo bored...

[wingnut]

hehehe your not the only one Lett!!
Aboriginal Studies is soooo boring!!LOL

[Bub]

You wouldn't think from looking at that last picture that we are in the middle of a drought.
Seriously? no I wouldn't of thought that...

[Bub]

Day Two - Sunday 18th April 2004

I woke up at 06:30 and dragged myself out of bed a couple of minutes latter, after a shower (man those showers are nice) and getting ready went down to pick up the cadets from their block. Off to McPlastics (McDonalds) for breakfast. Boy your mackers needs to get bagels for breakfast. Hmmmm bagels....

Anyway after breakfast at Blacktown we made our way down the road to the RSL to find out where we were required to be. It ened up that we were required in the mackers carpark which we had just left :). After forming up there with the Army Cadets we then marched down the street lead by an Air League (no idea on abrev for them) band and the RSL members with the cadets and some other groups following on behind. Our cadets did us proud and marched in step for the majority of the way down the street. Ariving at the RSL we turned and listened to the service in the rising heat...

Whilst we were standing easy listening to what was going on, I was looking at the cadets in front of me looking for signs of anyone going to faint. Then what do you know but the officer at the front (AKA Crash), faints sideways with a twist half way through. The cadets in semi typical fashion lept out of the road and he hit with his full weight (granted some cadets would of got squished had they tried to stop him).

I was the first to arrive and noticed that his eyes had rolled up into his head (so to speak). A few seconds latter he snapped out of it and couldn't work out what had happend. When I first got to him I placed my hand under his head for support and it instanly went warm. Upon removing my hand I saw that it was covered in blood. So I then applied presure to the back of his head. By this time the SES guys (like Chuck) had arrived and got out their first aid kit while another dude phoned for an ambulance (so I now know the Aussie emergency number). Time passed and at last the ambulance arrived (during last post I believe), he was then put into the ambulance and I went with him to the Blacktown Hospital. There we had to wait awhile as there were a few higher priority patients present. When he was finally looked at he was given five stiches and a jab. This all occured between 10:00-12:45, so we hadn't even been in county 24hrs.

This last bit bunged the days plans a bit, so we went back to base relaxed and packed some of our gear up for day three's road trip...



Our cadets formed up in the Mackers carpark before the march. I'm on the far left at the back.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/18-4-2004_1.jpg

Marching down the street, we are all even in step. Even with the cadets in front.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/18-4-2004_2.jpg

The before picture with 'Crash' infront of the cadets at the RSL.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/18-4-2004_3.jpg

Crash and I kinda like cop cars..... *drools*
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/18-4-2004_4.jpg

[Kass]

All marching in steep hey?

Bloody Kiwis!

[Bub]

So spelling isn't my strong point...

[Kass]

I can't blame you, I mean thats how you'd pronounce it..

[Bubblehead]

Harsh Kass... very Harsh!!! Keep up the good work :)

[Anzac Angel]

ugh.. i hate that feeling.. a lady sliped over at this resort, where my fiancees parents own a unit, and this lady, she was a grandma, woulda been in her 60's - 70's and she smacked her head on the ground and i grabed her head and put pressure on it, and when the towel came i just told her grand daughter to hold onto her grandma's head so i could go and wash my hand, and i thought that she should have gone to the hospital.. but everyone else made up their minds for her (including my fiancees dad) all miraculously became doctors and said it wouldnt be neccersary for her to go to the hospital.. i told the lady that she should go if she got woosy, or felt like she was going to throw up, or if she threw up..

*sigh*..

Cheers
angie

[Anzac Angel]

BTW, sorry about the double post.. but..

GO THE SALVO's!!

Cheers
angie

[stefcheng]

Yea, THE SALVOS RULE!! hehe, them and their hot chocolate and lollies when on AFX...

[DaveKeane]

Did anyone else I know go other than you and 'Crash'?

[comet65]

BUB

Bub that was my unit at the Blacktown march! We were the Navy Cadets who turned up a little late! I talked to so many of your Kiwi cadets then, I might've actually spoken to you, but I didn't realise! We were talking about different pronounciations, and our RAAF SGT was telling us words to say, such as "PLINK", which I found out is Kiwi for white out.

This is in the RSL when we got fed.

If you say some names and of yours or my cadets that were there, I would most probably remember. :cool:

[Kass]

:eek: You met Bub and didn't realise it Dean? tsk tsk :p

[DaveKeane]

... such as "PLINK", which I found out is Kiwi for white out.
Actually, it's 'Twink'. And for trivia's sake, South Africans call it 'Tip-Ex'

[Bub]

Did anyone else I know go other than you and 'Crash'?
UO Gilmore and SQNLDR te Tau, would bethe only I can think of that you would know...



Bub that was my unit at the Blacktown march! We were the Navy Cadets who turned up a little late! I talked to so many of your Kiwi cadets then, I might've actually spoken to you, but I didn't realise! We were talking about different pronounciations, and our RAAF SGT was telling us words to say, such as "TWINK", which I found out is Kiwi for white out.

This is in the RSL when we got fed.

If you say some names and of yours or my cadets that were there, I would most probably remember. :cool:
Yes I did notice the navy cadets turing up late *tisk* *tisk*, I did also notice the RAAF SGT.

We wouldn't of meet sorry as I went with my fallen comrade to the hospital. But if you saw the fallen dude and another guy of similar build and rank next to him then that would of been me. As for fed, man I was hungry that avo.....

As for Cadet names, UO Gilmore; SGT Toffs; CPL's Mills, Allen, Campbell, Irving. Then numorous other cadet names....

[CProctor]

Actually, it's 'Twink'. And for trivia's sake, South Africans call it 'Tip-Ex'

Tippex in the UK, too :)

[Bub]

Day Three - Monday 19th April 2004

I can't remember the exact time we got up today but I recall it was very early as we were on the road by 06:30. Today's destination was the Australian Capital City of Canberra in ACT. It's quite a wee road trip but is made very easy by the freeway system linking Sydney and Canberra.

Breakfast was at the same place we had breakfast at two years previously. I had Coco Pops :). There was a fair amount of road works once again on this road and it was interesting seeing some of the construction from two years previously completed. Going over some of the bridges is just amazing, as when you go over them you can't even see the bottom where the bridge is going over. Very nice scenery.

Unlike last time we were more keyed up this time about the bypass road to Canberra's airport, which saved us some time (as we were running late). At RAAF Base Fairbairn we made a visit to 34 Squadron. Two years previously they were flying the Falcon 900s, now it's three Challenger 604's and two Boeing 737 BBJs.

Like last time though we were unable to take pictures on base. We were shown through the 604 (where we had to wear socks over our shoes (which have since doubled as good shoe protectors for travelling)), and were also shown through the BBJ. It was very impressive to go through the BBJ as I had guard a USAF version here at Wellington Airport recently and was curious at what it looked like inside. If I remember correctly it can hold 26 people, so our trip of 23 would have fitted in there nicely.

After Fairbairn was a visit to ADFA. Some Kiwi students at ADFA once again showed us around. This time by an Army Officer Cadet, and Air Force Officer Cadet. Visited the pool, gym, mess, lecture theatre, and one of their rooms. While waiting outside of the room an RAAF Officer Cadet approached us and asked us if we knew of 41 Sqn and the like. It turned out he was a cadet at Camden when we stayed there two years ago. It was good to see him and he remembered me too :D.

Following ADFA was a trip to the Australian War Memorial, which is just stunning. There were new exhibits too which was good for us doing our second or third visit there.

After tea we went up one of the lookouts and got an impressive view of the city at night....



Only in Australia.....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/19-4-2004_1.jpg

The main sign at ADFA.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/19-4-2004_2.jpg

A very realistic model of a scene from WWI in the Australian War Memorial.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/19-4-2004_3.jpg

A picture from the look out at night. The shrinkage of the pic makes it hard to see well...
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/19-4-2004_4.jpg

[Anzac Angel]

the only in australia pic...

Thats to tell you that there is kangaroos the next 8km.. whats so wrong with that.. you prolly have signs waring about kiwi's over there...??

Cheers
angie

[Bub]

the only in australia pic...

Thats to tell you that there is kangaroos the next 8km.. whats so wrong with that.. you prolly have signs waring about kiwi's over there...??

Cheers
angie
I never said there was anything wrong with it :), it's just a saying ;) (like only in America...)

We don't have signs like that over here. As kiwis are very rarly seen in the wild, they also live in forests and only come out at night (nocturnal).

[Anzac Angel]

well there you go..

I know that you weren't saying anything.. its ok.. lol but..

well.. its just the Local government covering there butts incase someone hits a roo, they cant come back and say.. well.. there wernt any warning signs.. so you can pay for my car repairs..

Cheers
angie

[Bright Eyes]

So when are you making a Canada visit? :D

[Bub]

So when are you making a Canada visit? :D
When are you going to donate for the trip? :D

[comet65]

That was two days before my tour . . .


Originally posted by Bub
This time by an Army Officer Cadet, and Air Force Officer Cadet. Visited the pool, gym, mess, lecture theatre, and one of their rooms.

Was the RAAF Officer Cadets name Nikki? Did she talk about her fencing thing?

[Kass]

How goos is the war memorial? I love it :)

[Bub]

That was two days before my tour . . .



Was the RAAF Officer Cadets name Nikki? Did she talk about her fencing thing?
No ours was an RNZAF Officer Cadet and a NZ Army Officer Cadet

[Bub]

Been a few days but here it is....

Day Four - Tuesday 20th April 2004

Well we got to wake up some where different today (Canberra), and had a great cooked breakfast thanks to the hotel. After packing up the vans with all our kit we headed towards ANZAC Parade.

ANZAC Parade is an awesome series of memorials, I've been there twice now but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. It's an eerie feeling knowing the history that each memorial represents on this wide and long street. Australians and some other nationalities are remembered here, from Gallipoli, Korea, Vietnam, through to the World Wars. There are also individual service memorials and even one for the nurses. Words just can't do it justice, so I'll put a few extra photos in.

After the Parade we moved back to the Australian War Memorial and were able to spend a few more hours here looking at things we missed the day before. Even by the end of today we hadn't seen everything.

From here we finished our time in Canberra and started the road back to Sydney. This time I had swapped places with the co-driver in the second van, so I was now in the trailing van. Therefore he became the chief navigator.

All was going well until it started to get dark and we got held up behind a truck on the freeway, as the cars kept going by we were getting futher and futher behind. Then as we passed an off ramp I thought to myself that we should have taken it (off ramp at Campbelltown). Upon ringing the other van we found that it had taken the off ramp, so we were stuck on the freeway by ourselves. This next bit defies logic, there was not a single off ramp in the direction we wanted for so many pages on the map it wasn't funny. It took 15 minutes or so to come across an exit.

So now we had two vans in two separate locations going two separate ways to one location. Their way did prove quicker by 10 minutes, but that was through no fault of ours.

All ended well with a meal at the Richmond Club and a semi early night for another long drive tomorrow.



Kemal Ataturk Memorial.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_1.jpg

Royal Australian Air Force National Memorial, with myself (left) and crash (right).
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_2.jpg

Royal Australian Navy National Memorial, for you naval types.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_3.jpg

The New Zealand Memorial.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_4.jpg

Australian Army National Memorial, the soldiers are more than twice my size in height.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_5.jpg

What more can I say....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_6.jpg

[DaveKeane]

the soldiers are more than twice my size in height.
Then again Bub, you've never been known to be of above average height.

[Bub]

But I aint THAT short....

[battlensign]

Wow.....in comparison the National RAN memorial seems..........kinda crappy :( :rolleyes:

I like the RAAF one though.....it looks cool :)

[Bub]

OK, maybe I misrepresented a bit there, the RAAF and the RAN "Memorials" I showed were actually the signs for them. Here are the actual memorials. It's just that these two are the only one that had cool big signs.



Royal Australian Air Force National Memorial
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_8.jpg

Royal Australian Navy National Memorial.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/20-4-2004_7.jpg

[hartleymartin]

Ooooo... Nice :D

I'd like to go overseas with cadets. Now that LEUT Atkinson announced the raising of the ANC retirement age, I might get a chance!

[Anzac Angel]

yeah.. get it right bub :p

[Bub]

Day Five - Wednesday 21st April 2004

Today was the last of our long range driving days (but certinaly not out last long day). It was an early departure from RAAF Richmond at 06:30 heading in a northerly direction for RAAF Williamtown.

Once again like the way to Canberra the road (a freeway I think) we were on northwards was of a high quality and certinaly saved us time over using the Pacific Highway. Quite a differnet view of the terrain as you head north from Sydney (the fog also helped there), much greener and it didn't seem as dry for some reason.

Upon arriving at RAAF Williamtown, a little latter than planned, we were off too visit our first squadron. The RAAF has two hawk squadrons one in RAAF Williamtown the other in RAAF Pearce (Western Australia), our visit was to 76 squadron based in Williamtown.

76 squadron and it's aircraft reminded me of the now non-existant 14 squadron RNZAF. Both squadrons have/had the same role (basic jet fighter training) and both aircraft (the hawk and the aermacchi) were similiar in design, layout and shape. 76 squadron had more resources though which clearly shows as you start to walk around the aircraft on the flightline. One aircraft we got too look over in depth and even explore all the bits on it, this was an amazing oportunity and I only wish we were allowed to take photos.

But the jewel in visiting 76 squadron was the oportunity to use the hawk flight simulator. It wasn't one of those large moving ones, but it was still impressive. 180 degree view and a real hawk cockpit as the chair made it feel very real. In my flight of about three to four minutes I was able to fly under the Sydney harbour bridge at full speed and pull a loop right after going under the bridge. All those years playing MS flight simulator finally played off :).

After lunch we were suposed to visit a hornet squadron but things changed an we were unable to visit. So we visited the control tower on Williamtown, which also controls the civilian aircraft on the other side of the airport. The tower was a great place to visit and was surprisingly similiar to the control tower at Wellington International Airport. We also got a visit to the traffic control centre downstairs.

Our final visit in the Williamtown area was the fighter world museum. Although interesting the museum like the naval aviation one in Nowra which we visited on our previous trip left alot to be desired when it comes to presentation. They should visit Air Force World, in Christchurch New Zealand, sometime.

Nothing major happened on the way back this time, apart from a fuel nozel I was using to fill one of the vans decided not to turn off when it was supose to and made a wee pudle of fuel on the forecourt. But the attendant didn't seem to mind, which was weird considering the size of the puddle.



The fog was intense on the way to RAAF Williamtown.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_1.jpg

FA-18 Hornet, photo taken from the viewing platform at the fighter world museum.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_2.jpg

Crash trying to get himself into one of the many seats along one wall.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_3.jpg

Was a tyring day for some....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_4.jpg

[Anzac Angel]

Day Five - Wednesday 21st April 2004

Today was the last of our long range driving days (but certinaly not out last long day). It was an early departure from RAAF Richmond at 06:30 heading in a northerly direction for RAAF Williamtown.

Once again like the way to Canberra the road (a freeway I think) we were on northwards was of a high quality and certinaly saved us time over using the Pacific Highway. Quite a differnet view of the terrain as you head north from Sydney (the fog also helped there), much greener and it didn't seem as dry for some reason.

Upon arriving at RAAF Williamtown, a little latter than planned, we were off too visit our first squadron. The RAAF has two hawk squadrons one in RAAF Williamtown the other in RAAF Pearce (Western Australia), our visit was to 76 squadron based in Williamtown.

76 squadron and it's aircraft reminded me of the now non-existant 14 squadron RNZAF. Both squadrons have/had the same role (basic jet fighter training) and both aircraft (the hawk and the aermacchi) were similiar in design, layout and shape. 76 squadron had more resources though which clearly shows as you start to walk around the aircraft on the flightline. One aircraft we got too look over in depth and even explore all the bits on it, this was an amazing oportunity and I only wish we were allowed to take photos.

But the jewel in visiting 76 squadron was the oportunity to use the hawk flight simulator. It wasn't one of those large moving ones, but it was still impressive. 180 degree view and a real hawk cockpit as the chair made it feel very real. In my flight of about three to four minutes I was able to fly under the Sydney harbour bridge at full speed and pull a loop right after going under the bridge. All those years playing MS flight simulator finally played off :).

After lunch we were suposed to visit a hornet squadron but things changed an we were unable to visit. So we visited the control tower on Williamtown, which also controls the civilian aircraft on the other side of the airport. The tower was a great place to visit and was surprisingly similiar to the control tower at Wellington International Airport. We also got a visit to the traffic control centre downstairs.

Our final visit in the Williamtown area was the fighter world museum. Although interesting the museum like the naval aviation one in Nowra which we visited on our previous trip left alot to be desired when it comes to presentation. They should visit Air Force World, in Christchurch New Zealand, sometime.

Nothing major happened on the way back this time, apart from a fuel nozel I was using to fill one of the vans decided not to turn off when it was supose to and made a wee pudle of fuel on the forecourt. But the attendant didn't seem to mind, which was weird considering the size of the puddle.



The fog was intense on the way to RAAF Williamtown.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_1.jpg

FA-18 Hornet, photo taken from the viewing platform at the fighter world museum.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_2.jpg

Crash trying to get himself into one of the many seats along one wall.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_3.jpg

Was a tyring day for some....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/21-4-2004_4.jpg

tell the truth bub.. the attendant knew the truth.. you pee'd your pants didnt ya!! :p

Cheers
angie

[Bub]

No I'm pretty sure it was Unleaded fuel spilling from the tank. I didn't get any on me.

[An Aussie ANZAC]

hey bud, you seem to like the cops cars, maybe i should send you pics of my SES vehicles! its all four wheel drives but they are good ones!

[Bub]

Sounds good mate :D

[Kass]

Are we going to get an update any time soon? :p

[Bub]

Day Six - Thursday 22nd April 2004

Today was a home day, home in the fact that we were visiting the units on RAAF Richmond. A cadet misplacing their room key destroyed our chance of a cheep breakfast of base. So in we went to pay A$9 something EACH for breakfast, needless to say we tried to get the most for our money.

36 squadron was the first of two Hercules squadrons we were to visit today, both quite different. 36 squadron operates the C-130H series of Hercules and has 12 of them, only 7 more than we (the RNZAF) do :). I've travelled in a herc before but I have never had the chance to have a good look around one like this. It's amazing how flat the main tyres are for the ruff field landings. It was also good to go up into the cockpit and have a look at all the gauges and buttons and even more gauges and buttons, in fact there are so many the flight engineer has an area of buttons and gauges that he/she is responsible for.

37 squadron operating the C-130J was the next stop. It's amazing how they can improve a beautiful plane and make it better. The length of the herc compared to the H model is the first visual appearance followed by the unique shaped propeller blades. Inside it's tidier and looks allot cleaner (they are newer). The major change in the front though is the "glass cockpit", remember all those gauges and buttons? well no more. Just a few glass screens a HUD (heads up display) unit and a small amount of gauges and buttons. Very cool looking at the data on the HUD, also when I pushed the throttle handles forward all these alarms sounded because of all the doors that were open :D.

Airport/Rescue fire was the last visit for the morning. Got to have a look over their two main appliances as well as have a look around their control room. They then had a battle between the two appliances in the way of a water fight. All in all a great morning. Lunch was another incredible amount where we ate as much as we could to get our moneys worth again.

First visit after lunch was the control tower, not much more to add here from the other tower. Although we did get to see a C-130 take off and a 707 take off :). Next visit was a surprise for the cadets, a C-130H simulation go. Unlike the Hawk sim this one was fully contained in a pod and was on legs, which moved around to replicate the motion of flight. I didn't manage to get a go on this one as it was required by some real pilots who had booked time on it, but there is always next time :)

The last visit for the day was the RAAF Police Working dog section. I have NEVER before seen dogs so well trained nor as crazy while in their cages. While walking among the cages in our three groups I sure some of them were trying to get out of their cages to get us (as opposed to just barking). They then demonstrated the skill of the dogs and handlers. The first demo was searching a suspect. The suspect places their hands on their head while the dog sits about 10m away looking at them. The handler gave a command and approached the suspect warning that if he moved they dog would strike. While searching the suspect, he moved one of his arms of his head and in a blink the dog was on his arm and had him on the ground. The second the handler challenged a suspect and set the dog on them, the suspect gave up when the dog was released and a loud NOOOOOOO was heard from the handler. The dog which by this stage had jumped into the air swung around and just sat on the ground looking at the suspect, which then tried to run and the dog got them. It was just amazing and has to be seen to be believed.


As no pics were allowed on base, I have managed to dig up some pics on the differences between the cockpits:

C-130H
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/22-4-2004_2.jpg

C-130J
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/22-4-2004_3.jpg

Also this is the main gate sign.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/22-4-2004_1.jpg

[Bub]

Day Seven - Friday 23rd April 2004

Well, after almost a week in country with days of non-stop things to do, it was time for a lazy day. So we all got to have a sleep in today, didn't have to get up till about 07:00 :D. During the day apart from going off base for breakfast and lunch we did nothing. Caught up on washing and ironing was the main task for the morning. In the afternoon after lunch we spent about 2.5 hrs in the base pool. During that time we ran a competition between the sections (4 CPLs, 4 sections), where the favourite activity would have to be the pool version of "flight" says. Well I'm assuming you have all heard of Simon says, well this is the drill version. Instead of Simon we say flight (we are air after all), so like "flight stand at ease" would be a valid movement but "stand at ease" or "squadron stand at ease" wouldn't. Makes it a bit more interesting being in a pool rather than a parade ground too.

After recharging our batteries it was off to Camden to have a BBQ with 303SQN AAFC. We stayed two nights at Camden the previous trip and the trip before they stayed there too. Even though this time around we didn't stay there the place was still looking different from the previous visit (just like on our previous visit). The buildings we stayed in last time had been pulled down and are being rebuilt.

We started off our visit viewing the aircraft they fly with (which the name of has totally escaped my mind), as well as some others that are stored in their hanger. While the staff then moved up the Squadron HQ the cadets under the supervision of some AAFC NCOs put the aircraft away into the hanger. When everyone arrived up to the HQ the AAFC cadets had a parade to raise the RAAF Ensign. Afterwards we had a BBQ where everyone then had the chance to mingle and swap stories and find out the differences between the countries air cadets. It was ended with a final parade where the CO or 303SQN presented the trip with a 303SQN plaque. The cadets then swapped contact details as we prepared to depart. On the trip back to base the cadets compared on what items they were able to score and also of the stories they had heard. I didn't hear much of this as I fell asleep on the way back to base.



Some of our cadets looking over one of the training aircraft.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/23-4-2004_1.jpg

Two of our CPLs in the cockpit.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/23-4-2004_2.jpg

Cadets overlooking another aircraft.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/23-4-2004_3.jpg

The BBQ.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/23-4-2004_4.jpg

I couldn't resist this picture. Crash hadn't seen the outside of the ambulance (just the inside), so I took this for him ;).
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/23-4-2004_5.jpg

[Anzac Angel]

waiting for the next instalment bub..

Cheers
angie

[Bub]

Day Eight - Saturday 24th April 2004

Well today is shopping day, (I'm sure a couple of the female cadets came just for this day). It's almost an hour drive to the Sydney CBD from Richmond and when you stop at McDonald's on the way it makes it that much longer (see picture later).

First stop (after we eventually found a free car park), was the Australian National Maritime Museum. Now no offence to any Naval types but it just doesn't interest me as much as an aviation museum (but then that's probably the same vice-versa). I still enjoyed what i saw of it this time though, we started off with the tour of the destroyer HMAS Vampire and then went into the submarine HMAS Onslow. It was allot better this time around the ships with a tour guide to explain things and also to tell little stories. Like for instance I never knew that during the Second World War quite allot of ships had an exposed bridge roof (as in no roof). This was to keep an eye out for enemy aircraft, as radar wasn't everywhere in those days. In the wardroom it even had a picture of the Vampire in the days when it had no roof. Would not of been a nice place during a storm, just thinking about crossing the Atlantic like that makes me shiver.

Next the submarine. To work on a submarine (especially the Onslow) you would have to be a midget. It is soooo tight and cramped down there that it would be pretty hard for two people to pass each other in the hallway going opposite directions. It was cool to look through the periscope again though.

After the ship tours I took two cadets to the Town Hall to meet up with relatives, while the rest continued through the museum. The first relative was 10 minutes early but the second was almost an hour late. No even Kristi was that late meeting me there :p

So with the two cadets gone I then had my own personal guide of Sydney once again. Off to get some lunch first then away to the model shop (which didn't have any model trains I wanted) to buy some STAR WARS LEGO :D and then to Dimocks to look at Star Wars novels. But all the novels they had I already have, so I bought a Formula One book for Dummies (which is darn interesting).

After that we walked down the waterfront area to watch some crazy dude juggle stuff on a bike on a pole. An apple, a largish knife and a pole on fire was the juggling items for today. Also as the apple was going around he kept taking bites out of it 9must be hungry work). Afterwards we found the bike was bolted to the poll, so that took away quite a bit of the danger element. Then I did the touristy thing and took a snap shot of the Sydney Opera House, which I never got around to looking at last time. Then walked around to the opera house and got a few of the big metal thing across the harbour.

We then killed time by walking around random places I don't recall (trying to stay in the shade, although Kristi was cold and wearing a jacket :rolleyes: ), and ending up at the Centrepoint Tower (300m tall). Here I meet up with my group again and Kristi went to take the train home (I think). Some of those cadets can shop, mate. The view from the top was cool and I was able to see the PacificBlue flight we came in on a week earlier from the tower. Also with the better camera I was able to take some better shots.

After here we headed back to the vans and then back towards base and tea, to prepare for tomorrow. Our final full day in country and the whole reason we came across in the first place.




We should all know who he is by now......
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_1.jpg

Toll both, novel for us Kiwis where tolls on roads are illegal (maybe not for too much lomger though).
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_2.jpg

The touristy thing, Sydney Opera House.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_3.jpg

Myself and Kristi, shes doesn't like this pic. But I'm sure deep down she doesn't like either version....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_4.jpg

The Centrepoint Tower....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_5.jpg

The sun setting on a great day in town.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/24-4-2004_6.jpg

[Anzac Angel]

awwwwwwwww thats really cool bub!!

I like sydney, I would have liked to have meet up with some of the southerners when i was down there last year, although... i wasnt allowed to go out alone :(

Cheers
angie

[funkyfairy]

Myself and Kristi, shes doesn't like this pic. But I'm sure deep down she doesn't like either version....

No I like the other version...man I look glow in the dark!

The funniest thing all day was how excited Crash was bout the white cricket ball, I was like "um ok"...lol :rolleyes:

[Bub]

The funniest thing all day was how excited Crash was bout the white cricket ball, I was like "um ok"...lol :rolleyes:
Yes well he is weird like that ol crash.....

Here is the other version then :p


http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/Sydney_Meeting2.jpg

[Lettie]

bub you look like you were trecking through the bush for the day!

[Bub]

I did do a fair bit of walking around Sydney, but I wouldn't really call it the bush ;)

[funkyfairy]

As if...that wasn't much walking....pfffft.... :rolleyes:

[Lettie]

yeah just like all males complaining about everything...

[Bub]

As if...that wasn't much walking....pfffft.... :rolleyes:
....and where you with me for the whole day? :p

....and who said I was complaining? :D:D

[Bub]

Day Nine - Sunday 25th April 2004

Well today was crunch day. An early morning this morning getting up at 03:00 for a 03:30 departure from RAAF Richmond to head to Blacktown. The dawn service kicked off at 05:00 with another march from the McDonalds car park down the road to the Blacktown RSL. The air had a bit of a chill too it but nothing like a Kiwi dawn service chill where thermals and jerseys are a must on some occasions. Just something to understand first, officers formal dress is long sleave, tie and SD cap (we also wear SD jackets but not on this trip); cadets wear short sleave shirt, no tie and a FS cap. So depending on the weather and temp depends on which uniform is better for the time. At the moment it was in the officers favour :).

After the dawn service (where no one fainted) we moved inside the RSL to have breakfast. It's amazing that they can feed sooooo many people in such a short time, very well organised. Inside it moved in favour of the cadets with the temperature being warmer. The cadets also had a final opportunity to talk to cadets from the AAC and members of the Air League that they meet last Sunday. But we couldn't stay here for long, as soon it was time to catch the train into downtown Sydney.

I've never caught a train in Australia before, but I had seen the trains running around Sydney. It was also the first time I've been on a double level train carriage before. The station at Blacktown is split between two lines so it was kind of confusing working out which platform we needed to start with. But we found it. It was also cool having the counter telling you how far away the train is I've never seen that before either. On the way in most of us got the top level, where there was a returned serviceman enjoying his can of Pepsi. At the end of the can for the second time he said, "That's the best can of Pepsi I've ever had" and gave us a wink. We got off one station later than we intended (Town Hall) but it turned out better, as we didn't have to walk as far.

After eventually finding the form up point for the AAFC members we got our cadets in as part of the formation. As no New Zealand flags were on hand our cadets marched with Australian flags. Our cadets were also placed up the front of the formation directly behind the AAFC CUOs and WOs (you don't call them CWOs do you?), with our UO in the front rank. Talk about spot the odd ones out :D. The officers (minus one who was taking photos) were placed at the rear with all the AAFC staff and officers. We also meet up with a female CUO who was going to show us to the school later on for lunch, she was also explaining things to us which we didn't understand. At this stage both uniforms were level.

When the parade finally kicked off the AAFC + ATC formation was 6 ranks deep and 45 or so files wide, that's about 270 cadets and staff. Previously the biggest march I had seen of cadets was about 100 at the NZ ATC 60th anniversary parade through downtown Wellington. It was simply mind boggling. Marching was interesting, at times everyone was in step at other times it seemed like everyone had their own :). But all in all with the numbers (and variations of training experience) we had, I think we did quite well.

When the march was finally over I was amazed, I've never seen so many people in a crowd before. Infact I don't think I've EVER seen that many people in one area before. Afterwards our cadets were given the option of going through again supporting RAAF contingents, or of staying and watching the parade. About half decided to go through again. It took them several hours to return as all the Navy and Army continents went through first. After they arrived we went of to search for this school as a guide had disappeared. Upon arriving at the school I meet Thomas Teo again (forgot to mention earlier), so that's another person that used to visit here that I've meet :). When we got into the grounds she came up to us and apologised for losing us, but it was no biggie in the end. We let her off when she showed us where the facilities were. Quite an amazing school (Sydney Grammar). Now the cadet's uniforms were in the advantage.

After lunch we then headed back towards the train station to head back to Blacktown to pick up our vans for the trip back to RAAF Richmond. This time we jumped on the bottom level. Very weird pulling into stations when you head is almost level with the floor of the platform, ladies should stand well back. We then had a lazy day in and around the pool with a final meal at the Richmond Club.

Well that was our last full day in country and I don't think I could have asked for a better one.



Need I introduce him, or say anything else?.....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/25-4-2004_1.jpg

The cadets marching through Sydney, you can even see Thomas Teo ;)
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/25-4-2004_2.jpg

45 files wide, 6 deep.....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/25-4-2004_3.jpg

ANZAC Memorial (thanks Kristi).
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/25-4-2004_4.jpg

Was a tyring day for most...
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/25-4-2004_5.jpg

[funkyfairy]

The big building you couldn't remember the name of is the ANZAC Memorial. One of my old CO's used to work there, as well as a few other ANC staff I know. It used to be great between the Martin Place Dawn Service and doing Op Rosemary for Legacy because we were nice and toasty and got hot milo :D

The school was most likely Sydney Grammar....they used to have a very hot CUO though :o

[Bub]

Cheers for that, can't believe I couldn't remember that....

Yes thats probably the school.

[thomasteo]

Yes, Sydney Grammar is the school.

Now...who's the first person that can spot me in the photo?

[DaveKeane]

I'm picking you're somewhere on the left.

[Bub]

Yes, Sydney Grammar is the school.

Now...who's the first person that can spot me in the photo?
Excellent,

can you spot yourself?

[thomasteo]

Of course I can spot myself... :D :rolleyes:

[Bub]

Just making sure, I didn't realise you were in the pic untill I was sizing it for here :).

[funkyfairy]

All the people are too small...I'm guessing he's the one with the brassard.

[Bub]

Which is were??

[funkyfairy]

As if I can tell, all the people are too small!

[7 point 6]

Im taking a wild guess and saying that Im the female CUO? :rolleyes: And you were asking pretty funny questions so I had to take up the opportunity to answer... :D I was standing in front of you and all.....
I did say I was sorry for leaving you in the city to fend for yourselves..... but when I did remember you were walking into the school.... Im sorry! I was so worried when I did remember.... I was like I accidently left with out the New Zealand people.... they are going to kill me! But it all turned out for the best!
Glad that you all had a fun time... and I will see you later in the year! :cool:

CUO Chez Richter
302 SQN AAFC

[Bub]

Yes it's all your fault :p

[Bub]

Day Ten - Monday 26th April 2004

Well today is the final day of our trip.

Another early morning as we had to be at the airport by 06:30 for a 06:45 check-in. Here we learnt that there would be a slight delay of an hour or so to our flight due to weather conditions in Christchurch (NZ). We were then given a $5 voucher to spend at McDonalds, Starbucks or some other random place. The majority of the group decided on the first option so we all went there. In my head I had worked out that I wanted $5.45 of food so I had .45c ready to pay extra. BUT when I got to the counter they informed me that I could only have up to a $5 value, and that they couldn't except my extra .45c. Now I don't know about you but the logic of that decision just escapes me, in fact there was NO LOGIC! So I had to settle for my crusty $3.95 option.

After we had all had breakfast and grumbled at the logic of McDonalds logic, we moved through customs and security. Got through customs all right and going through security was selected for a "random" explosive test. So I had some random thing swabbed over my clothes and inside my bag, it came through OK :).

Through here we then found the gate for the flight and set up a camp. We were then instructed to be back in an hour and we got wonder around and have a look. I then hunted for a free Internet machine which I found and posted this thread (http://www.cadet-world.com/cwforums/showthread.php?t=569). Upon returning to the gate we were informed that there would be a further delay. So I then walked through too the other part of the International terminal, which i didn't know how to get to last time. Over there I was able to get a closer look on some aircraft and also some great pics :D.

When we did finally leave Sydney it was about 3.5hrs after we were supposed to so the time was around midday. So we actually left Sydney at the time we were supposed to land in Wellington :). Upon arriving in Wellington in the late afternoon/early evening I was able to buy my duty free and proceed through all the other formalities required. My dad picked me up and it was then time to head home, after a quick stop here off to cadets for the night.

Well that concludes my report on my ANZAC Trip 2004, I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have enjoyed sharing what I got up to. I've also enjoyed being able to share a VERY small amount of the pictures I took while over there (I managed to fill two 128MB cards plus a wee bit more. Well that's all for now, time to start planning for 2006.....




Qantas Boeing 747-400.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/26-4-2004_1.jpg

Vietnam Airlines Boeing 777-200ER.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/26-4-2004_2.jpg

PacificBlue Boeing 737-800.
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/26-4-2004_3.jpg

'Crash' one last time, just to show that the presure in the cabin is not sea level ;)
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/26-4-2004_4.jpg

Home, NZ coast line....
http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/CW%20Forum%20Pics/26-4-2004_5.jpg

[Lettie]

its good to finally see home isn't it...i'm glad you enjoyed your trip over here.. maybe next time you can come to Victoria... and i'll show you all around and get you all lost!

[Anzac Angel]

nah nah.. he is comming to sunny Queensland first!! arent ya bub!!! :)

Cheers
angie

[Bub]

I'm not sure where I'm going to go if/when I come across my self. It's a toss up between Sydney and Brisvegas!

[Lettie]

fine then... be like that! Poor victoria, it's ok i still love you!

[Anzac Angel]

sydney... you have just been to sydney... come to brissy!!

Cheers
angie

[funkyfairy]

He could do both...cheap flights on Jetstar or Virgin Blue

[Lettie]

Yeah i'm coming up to sydney on the 25th of June... atm... and we're flying Virgin and Jetstar... $85 to come home on the monday.. it's unreal!

i can't wait.. we're going to see the Lion King..
sydney ppl any good clubs that we can go to.. or anything we really really have to see?

[stefcheng]

some good clubs, if you can find them... and there's always plenty to see! i just haven't gotten around to looking at them...

[Margaret Allen]

A bit hard to go clubbing when your stuck in prison :p :p

[Lettie]

ha ha ha good call.. nah seriously!!! we're going up on a friday, and then coming back either sunday night or monday, so apart from touristing around.. what else can we do?

[Margaret Allen]

You Victorians might find it warm enough to go to the beach ;)

[Lettie]

nah that's boring.. i can go to the beach here if i want.. i mean like places... parties.. clubs... shops... sites...

[funkyfairy]

Depends on how much you want to pay....

I wouldn't come all the way to Sydney neccessarily to go shopping though, unless you know what you want.

[Bub]

He could do both...cheap flights on Jetstar or Virgin Blue
I'm NOT made of money ya know :p


You Victorians might find it warm enough to go to the beach ;)
If it is anything like as warm as it was when I was there....... *hot!*


I wouldn't come all the way to Sydney neccessarily to go shopping though, unless you know what you want.
I did, but they didn't have any!! *grumble* *grumble*

[Anzac Angel]

I dont know what you people are talking about.. beach.. BEACH.. its too damn cold to be going to the beach...

I went across the boarder to caberita on saturday nite.. and it was FREEZING!!

besides, melborne and sydney have most of the same shops.. I honestly cant think of anything (except go to the opera house and the Sydney harbour bridge climb) that you couldnt do in Melborne...

I hope to go down Sth sometime this year to visit my grandma :)

Cheers
angie

[Lettie]

nah i'm not going for the shopping.. i'm going to see the Lion King..
i can shop here when ever i want...

been there done both the opera hosue and the bridge.. i meant like the best food place.. you know for our meals.. and any good clubs.. now dont send me to kings cross please...

[Margaret Allen]

Norton Street in Leichardt is swarming with Italian resturants

[stefcheng]

...now dont send me to kings cross please...
haha, none of us would ever do that! :p and anyway there isn't anything that great over there...

[funkyfairy]

There's a place in Crows Nest called Pino's...they have the best pasta I have ever eaten!

And Hogs Breath, but you have that down there too...

[Bub]

now dont send me to kings cross please...
Whats wrong with kings cross?


And Hogs Breath, but you have that down there too...
Mmmmmmmmmmm that is so nice!!!!!!!

[funkyfairy]

What's wrong with it???

It's a skeazy dive....

You walk through there in broad daylight and feel the need for a Hepatitis vaccination....

I don't know what's wrong with it :p

Nah they have Copenhagen Ice Cream there. Oh and the Maccas has no public toilets so the junkies can't shoot up and whatever else people get up to. I would never go there by myself at night!

[Lettie]

we drove throught there one night with 5 bus loads of cadets.. ha ha ha you can imagine the street life's faces... ha ha ha

[Bub]

I'm begining to build a picture of it.....

[hartleymartin]

You would not believe what (occasionally) happens in kings cross. Especially when there are uniforms involved!

[Lettie]

um... unappropriate... but lets just say i'm NOT GOING THERE.. maybe drive through one night... but i'm not partying down there!

[Margaret Allen]

My year 10 formal was next door in Potts Point. Two of my classmates actually walked through Kings Cross in their Tux's :eek:

[funkyfairy]

It's ok if you're in a bit of a group.

Martin...walking through in uniform, as one of the VI's who used to be at SIRIUS said....for every 1 person in navy uniform, there's probably 10 sailors there who aren't.

Lette, you have to go to Harry's Cafe de Wheels....yummy yummy chunky pies right next to the harbour *Drools*

[hartleymartin]

Mmmmm.... Harry's.....

Every time I go past there I always have to have a pie with peas and gravy.

[funkyfairy]

I just have mine with sauce, no peas, potato or gravy, but it still tastes bloody awesome!

Soooo good on the way home from the SFS and a Roosters game :D

[stefcheng]

Mmmmm Harry's... always good to walk to for dinner before a night out...

[Bub]

Steak & Cheese pies?

[Kass]

I remember having those pies on CenFed :) they were good like :D

[JoeyMack]

[QUOTE=PO Loretta]unappropriateQUOTE]


lol i just read that, and it reminded me of Ralph of the Simpsons.

"miss hoover, i ate my red crayon then burpeded which is unappropriate" lol cant you just imaging ralph saying unappropriate.

Unappropriate is like Unpossible, its one of those words that doesn't make sence, but does at the same time hehehe.

[Kass]

I like it :)

[bradybunch]

I remember having those pies on CenFed :) they were good like :D
they were some good pies :D

[Lettie]

yeah had them.. everytime we go to sydney and go to fleet base east.. we get a warrie... oh the warries... ha ha ha

the pies and peas are GOOOOD!

[hartleymartin]

If Bub visited Australia and DIDN'T go to Harry's then he missed out on something. I supposed he can be forgiven though. If you are a Navy or Sea Cadet and come through Sydney and not go to Harry's then you are almost sinning!

[Bub]

Well you can blame me Sydney guide for that :p

[Kass]

No excuses!

[funkyfairy]

Hey I didn't go anywhere near Harry's because we didn't have the time :p

[stefcheng]

Yea, but i thought you of all people would have made the time for harry's!!!!

[Bomber]

Highly disappointing... :(

[funkyfairy]

:p

Blame the cadet who's aunt didn't turn up to meet him when she was supposed to :p

[Bub]

Trying to fudge the blame :p, next time......

[funkyfairy]

Next time I'll take you to Harry's :p

[stefcheng]

and i'll write it on your forehead so you don't forget...

[DaveKeane]

write it in reverse so it can be read in the mirror

[Bub]

and i'll write it on your forehead so you don't forget...
Done.......


http://img58.photobucket.com/albums/v176/KiwiBub/Other%20CW%20Pics/Sydney_Meeting_Harrys.jpg

[Lettie]

Gold.........

[Margaret Allen]

LOL.

*wipes tears from eyes*