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Today marks 80 years of operation for RAAF Base Amberley, located eight kilometres south-west of Ipswich and 50 kilometres south-west of Brisbane. From opening in the midst of the Second World War to taking a leading role in the introduction of women into the ADF, Defence Connect takes a look back at the base’s colourful history.
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Now a modern, fully-integrated platform for the conduct of joint operations, Amberley traces its history back to 1940. When construction began the year prior, the project was described as one of the largest and most ambitious ever undertaken in Queensland.
Air base operations began in June 1940, with the first aircraft at station headquarters being the Moth Minor No. A21-26, followed shortly after by four CAC Wirraways.
By the end of the year, the base played host to 54 aircraft. Over the course of the following two years, it was transformed into a centre of excellence for the assembly, maintenance and salvage of aircraft, which was the primary focus of the base during World War II.
In 1951, the first bomber in RAAF service to be fitted with ejection seats, the GAF Canberra Mk 20, arrived at the base. It was later converted for target-towing and photo reconnaissance roles until 1982.
The first six F-111C aircraft arrived in 1973. This was followed a few months later with the formation of No.12 Squadron comprising CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
The expansion of on-base aircraft continued with the introduction of battlefield helicopters from the RAAF to Army, followed by the transfer of 10 Caribou aircraft.
In 2000, redevelopment works began with the relocation of Combat Support Group from Glenbrook and new headquarters for No. 82 Wing, while the base also hosted several operational combat support units and security and fire training capabilities.
Development of what came to be known as the “super base” continued over following years with accommodation, airfield upgrades, a gym, military working dog facilities, security and fire training and the headquarters building.
In 2010, after 37 years of service, the F-111 was retired, with two remaining on display – one at the main entrance to the base and the other at the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre.
Throughout its years, the base has hosted elements of the Australian Army. From 1960 to 1973, it was home to Army Aviation and since 2006 has supported a variety of Army units. Amberley now hosts a range of Air Force, Army and joint capabilities and is a fully operational platform for the conduct of joint operations.
Today, RAAF Base Amberley accommodates about 6,000 military personnel, Commonwealth public servants and Defence aviation contractors, and provides permanent facilities for many aircraft.
