Nation leading air display set for Townsville

Date: Monday, 17th August 2009

Skies over Townsville will erupt in sight, sound and colour on September 26 when the city stages one of the biggest air displays in Australia.

The Air Display will feature the last dump and burn by an F1-11 ever seen in the city.

Tens of thousands of spectators are expected to turn out for the Defence Display and Fire Works Spectacular to see a high energy show that will coincide with the Strand’s 10th birthday celebrations.

Aerial performances will also include the world renowned USAF Thunderbirds, F/A 18s, the last public performance of the Caribous and a spectacular fire works finale.

Acting Mayor Cr David Crisafulli and the RAAF’s head of special events Air Commodore Philip Byrne jointly launched the air extravaganza on the Strand today.

Cr Crisafulli said the event was a coup for the city and would attract people from all over the region.

“The council is working with the Australian Defence Force to stage a show to remember,” Cr Crisafulli said.

“When the ADF put forward the prospect of staging this event in Townsville the council jumped at the chance.

“It was a golden opportunity for us to build up a spectacular show that celebrates our close defence force ties and involves the community in a big event to mark the Strand’s 10th birthday.

“It’s another step to putting Townsville on the map as the events capital of this State.

“Obviously an event of this size is a major logistical exercise in terms of managing traffic and transport arrangements.

“The council is working closely with the ADF, Main Roads, the port, police and emergency service providers to develop a comprehensive management plan for the Strand event.”

The Defence Display will take place in the afternoon followed by the council’s spectacular fire works finale which will be fired from three barges located off the Strand just after sunset.

Family entertainment, including music and rides, as well as food vendors will be set up in Strand Park.

Details of parking and transport arrangements will be advertised widely once they are finalised.