Shepparton Squadron takes flight

The Shepparton Squadron will be the only one in northern Victoria, servicing the wider Goulburn Valley area.

The program is entirely self-funded and volunteer-run by Greg and Dianna O’Brien, who are ready to inspire the next generation.

“I’ve been in the Air League since 1973 in various roles, including acting chief commissioner last year for eight months,” Greg said.

“The Australian Air League was formed in 1934, and it has always been a fully volunteer-run organisation, even at the top level the general manager is a volunteer.”

The squadron will meet once a week on Thursdays at 7pm, at the Shepparton Aerodrome clubrooms.

The first parade and open night is scheduled for February 6, where new and prospective cadets can come along and try out the program.

“At the moment we have 10 cadets confirmed ... about six girls and four boys,” Greg said.

“(The open night) is primarily for prospective cadets that want to join, and we usually allow them to come along for about three weeks to see if they actually like it and if it’s going to suit them.”

“For the new cadets that will be coming, we’ll be training and teaching them how to fall in and salute and just some basics, how to hold their hand, how to come to attention and at ease, and for that first session they will probably get through most of the first badge they’ll do,” Dianna said.

Greg said children from as far as Numurkah would be travelling to the program each week, and encouraged all who were interested to come along.

While this isn’t Greg’s first time starting a squadron from scratch, it is for his wife, Dianna, but both are looking forward to the challenge.

“Success will depend on the time and effort that you put in and how interesting you make it,” Greg said.

“We can be as big as we need to be. Our largest squadron in Victoria at the moment is 40 cadets, which is the Waverley squadron.

“We estimate Shepparton could be bigger than that ... we’ve got two of the girls that will be coming along from Numurkah, so our area will cater for all the Goulburn Valley.”

Members of the Australian Air League take part in activities including ceremonial drill, physical training, model aircraft building and aviation theory classes, such as navigation and aircraft engines.

Those interested in getting involved are welcome to come along to the open day on February 6 at 7pm at the Shepparton Aerodrome clubrooms.

Greg and Dianna are also looking out for any volunteers.

For more information, to become a cadet or inquire about volunteering, you can contact the Australian Air League on 1800 502 175 or email info@airleague.com.au

You can also contact the Shepparton Squadron through its Facebook page.