Statement: Townsville-based 5th Aviation Regiment Recalled to Assist with Flood Recovery
19 December 2023
As many of us wind down and head off on holidays, members of the 5th Aviation Regiment are back at work, helping their fellow Queenslanders in their time of need.
One of the many sacrifices of service to our nation is to answer the call to action at a moment’s notice – even when it means giving up time with family and friends.
On behalf of the Townsville community and the entire Defence family I’d like to thank the Chinook pilots, loadmasters and other local Defence members involved in the rescue and recovery efforts in Far North Queensland for their commitment, bravery and sacrifice.
There may be difficult days ahead. It will be taxing, exhausting and confronting work.
But my message to them is this: know that your service is acknowledged, appreciated and will no doubt save lives and livelihoods.
We wish them all the best as they farewell their families and forego Christmas with their families for this important work.
ENDS