FAST JET TRAINING AT EVANS HEAD AIR WEAPONS RANGE 

The Royal Australian Air Force has finalised its Evans Head Air Weapons Range training program.  The Evans Head training area is located south of the Evans Head township on the north coast of NSW.

Air Force currently operates F/A-18F Super Hornet from RAAF Base Amberley and F-35A Lightning II aircraft from RAAF Base Williamtown over the range.

​F/A-18F Hornets from Number 1 Squadron Training Flight have finalised their program and will operate on the range from 28 August to 1 September and 23 October to 10 November.​

F-35A Lightning II aircraft from Number 2 Operational Conversion Unit will visit the range on 14 September and 18 October, with backup days being 19 October and 2 November 2023.

Commander of Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Peter Robinson said the range was suited as a gunnery and bombing practice area for aircrew completing their operational conversion to F-35A Lightning II and F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft.

​“Fast jet military aircraft will conduct low-level flying and gunnery and bombing training during each mission within the range airspace,’’ Air Commodore Robinson said.

FAST JET TRAINING AT EVANS HEAD AIR WEAPONS RANGE

Air Commodore Robinson said training activities could involve up to two waves of aircraft per day with live strafing, pattern application and the possible use of lasers. ​

“Local residents are advised that access to the range (land areas) remains restricted whether activities are being conducted or not.  This is due to the historical use of range and the possibility of unexploded ordnance remaining at the site,” Air Commodore Robinson said.

For safety reasons, the Southern Defence Practice Area (overwater) will be closed from 10:00am to 5:00pm during all operations, except where specifically indicated.

Residents are advised training on the range can change due to weather or other considerations.

Defence appreciates the ongoing input and long standing support the local community provides in terms of our operations.

The Evans Head Air Weapons Range Community Advisory Panel has been advised of these activities.

Defence personnel display red flags whenever live firing activities are conducted and carry out patrols to ensure people don’t stray into the area.

For further information please refer to the Air Force Operations website on https://www.airforce.gov.au/operations/flying-operations/flying-activity

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