Heads up - Military LJR Gold Coast / Wiliamtown

[Craig Murray]

Morning all,

Just a heads up for folk between the Gold Coast and Williamtown, according to the following NOTAM if you keep your eyes on the skies between 1400 and 1700 today you could spot some F/A-18's and F-15's.

I'm not sure if this info re aircraft types is correct but I'm sure someone will spot them and update us.

LJR SE QUEENSLAND / NE NSW MIL F18 AND F15 JET ACFT OPR ON FLW
RTE TR COASTAL
GOLD COAST / WILLIAMTOWN
SFC TO 5000FT AGL
FROM 08 220400 TO 08 220700


Could be a good afternoon to go spotting at Billsville if there are F-15's inbound.

[Stephen Brown]

Unfortunately the weather is not that good for F-15 arrivals today. hopefully they will hang around for next week.

Thanks for letting us drink from the font of information that is Craig Murray, Mr Murray!!

[Craig Murray]

Further to my last there have been a large number of USAF movements in the Brisbane area today according to www.balus.info

A KC-135 (63-8019 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=63-8019&distinct_entry=true)) is currently in the area maintaining FL370, a KC-10 (82-0193 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=82-0193&distinct_entry=true)) is also currently showing up at FL250.

3 C-17's have also been active today.

05-5141 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=05-5141&distinct_entry=true)
03-3117 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=03-3117&distinct_entry=true)
06-6164 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=06-6164&distinct_entry=true)

What's going on, are we under attack :D

[Stephen Brown]

The KC-135 made it to Williamtown along with the F-15's

[Mick.B]

Are the F-15s from Japan. How long are they down for ? How many are there ?

[Bob C]

I've seen a few photos and from what I can ascertain, they are a mixture of F15Cs and F15Ds from the Oregon Air National Guard. There may be some F15Es as well but they all look the same in the grey colours.

Confirmation will be welcome.

[Bob C]

Forgot to add that there are two Cs and two Ds - possibly more.

[damien b]

Oregan Air National Guard fly F-15A and B model aircraft, so if they are indeed Oregan Eagles i dare say they are the older A and B model aircraft.
142nd Fighter Wing, 123rd Fighter SQN.

[phil.l]

Is ther an exercise coming up? does anyone know why F-15`S are here?

[Mick.B]

Aces South.

http://www.airservicesaustralia.com/publications/current/sup/s8-h63.pdf

[phil.l]

Thanks Mick.

[andrew evans]

Is anyone heading out for a bit a spotting for this exercise

[Craig Murray]

Aces South

If that's the case it seems they have arrived a month early as Aces South runs from 22-26 September. Should they hang around for that long the spotting at Billsville is going to be outstanding!

[Mick.B]

I`d say your right Craig, Im getting a Month ahead of myself. They wont hang around that long. I will do some more investigating.

[Bob C]

Thanks for the correction Damien.

I was taking my info from another site.

[Craig Murray]

Another USAF C-17 arrived somewhere on the Eastern seaboard today.

06-6159 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=06-6159&distinct_entry=true) is the registration.

Great times for lovers of military aircraft!

[Gerard M]

Could have been Richmond, drove past at about 700pm last night and there was one over in the corner?

[Ahmet H]

There was a C-17 at Williamtown yesterday arvo. Just as I was driving home past the Airport I saw it on the taxiway waiting to enter the runway.

Luckly I had my Receiver with me so I caught it before it left.

It's callsign was Aussie 762, so i'm guessing it was an RAAF C-17.

It's departed on Runway 12 and tracked north.

Quite a few people turned up actually to see it take off. Does anyone know if there was anything special about it?

[Craig Murray]

It has been confirmed that 06-6159 arrived in Brisbane and departed a couple of hours later.

Further to this a fifth C-17A is now in the area, rego is 06-6160 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=06-6160&distinct_entry=true).

The KC-10 (82-0193) that has been in Brisbane the last couple of days also looks to be on the move.

And in the rush I missed to note 05-5140 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=05-5140&distinct_entry=true) which passed through the region on Saturday.

Amazing, simply amazing is the only way to describe this level of activity!

[Mike Y]

Sounds bloody exciting! Will be going down to Newcastle next week to visit Fighter World, hope the Eagles will still be there then. Any locals from there keen for a meetup?

[andrew evans]

I am heading up for operation aces south i hope we get some different aircraft.I had my leave approved today awesome.

[Chris Primmer]

Hey,

Sorry for the poor quality but I suppose they are at 21000 feet


ChrisP

[patrick woodward]

Thanks Chris..

Where was that pic taken??? those aircraft seem to be hanging in WLM for a bit???

Cheers

[Chris Primmer]

Taken over Williamtown today!

Apparently they are here for a while as there is a crew change for the KC-135 this weekend.

Hopefully we will get some sort of westerly wind so they use runway 30, for the arrivals, although a 12 departure would be interesting with F15's going out low and fast!


ChrisP.

[Mick.B]

My Father wants to go up to Willytown for a few days of spotting. What is the closest accomadation to the base. Ayn B&Bs or van parks close by.

[AdamC]

Apparently from a source at work they are here for an FCI course that goes for a month.

Will try and find out more tomorrow.

Cheers

Adam

[Stephen Brown]

My Father wants to go up to Willytown for a few days of spotting. What is the closest accomadation to the base. Ayn B&Bs or van parks close by.

Mick,

Best Idea is to stay in Raymond Terrace/Heatherbrae or Newcastle. There is plenty of accom in the Terrace ranging from Motels to Caravan parks and onsite vans.

Steve Brown

[Mick.B]

Thanks Steve.

[phil.l]

any C-17 or KC-10`s at Williamtown?

[Chris Primmer]

There hasn't been a KC10 to my knowledge but there was a USAF C17 departure last saturday, Also a RAAF C17 on Sunday with one arriving Wednesday afternoon!

Thanks to Fighterworld for that information

ChrisP

[Tony P]

I wonder if they will hang around for the Amberley show on the 4th & 5th of October?
Some great pics here:
http://www.aussiemodeller.com/pages/discussiongroup/forum.html
Click on "Shooting Eagles".

[phil.l]

Thanks Chris.

[Darren Mottram]

G'day Guys,

Anyone here that I met at Fighterworld on Monday?

In case you haven't seen them already (from the link that Tony posted above), here are a couple of shots of the action at Willietown this week.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_25_9999_393-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_26_9999_292-LR-1.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_26_9999_1127-LR-001.jpg

The Yanks were going ballistic today (unfortunately I was back at work so no time to take photos :-( ). They have been really hauling butt around the circuits.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Tony P]

Welcome to the board Motty! Going to Sydney to see the flyover?

[Darren Mottram]

Welcome to the board Motty! Going to Sydney to see the flyover?

Thanks Tony.

No, hoping to get some more stuff from Williamtown today (but the weather looks like it might close in first :-( ).

Cheers,
Motty.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Thanks Tony.

No, hoping to get some more stuff from Williamtown today (but the weather looks like it might close in first :-( ).

Cheers,
Motty.

Hey Motty

How's things? How's the Mirage book going?

I'm hoping to be up your way next week sometime to get some pics - will let you and Steve Brown know when I have a day!

Cheers

Andrew

[Tony P]

Andrew,

The Mirage book was out years ago and it is fantastic! Probably very hard to get a copy now.

Cheers

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Andrew,

The Mirage book was out years ago and it is fantastic! Probably very hard to get a copy now.

Cheers


I know - I got one!

[Tony P]

Ah no worries. Thought you were asking if Motty was still writing the thing.!!

[Darren Mottram]

Hey Motty
How's things? How's the Mirage book going?
I'm hoping to be up your way next week sometime to get some pics - will let you and Steve Brown know when I have a day!
Cheers
Andrew

G'day Andrew,

The Mirage book sold out a while ago now. The only ones I have left are the special, collector's editions that Paul and I put together but they're not cheap. ;)

It's been a while since I last e-mailed Roger but he didn't seem keen to reprint them any time soon.

I look forward to the chance to catch up if we can all get the time. Are you coming for something in particular or just the chance to photograph the Eagles?

Cheers,
Motty.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

G'day Andrew,

The Mirage book sold out a while ago now. The only ones I have left are the special, collector's editions that Paul and I put together but they're not cheap. ;)

It's been a while since I last e-mailed Roger but he didn't seem keen to reprint them any time soon.

I look forward to the chance to catch up if we can all get the time. Are you coming for something in particular or just the chance to photograph the Eagles?

Cheers,
Motty.

Will hopefully be spending a few hours on base for an article we're doing on the GCI Course. Should find out Monday which day.

How much are the collector's editions? I could swap you a signed hard-cover Hornet book if you like? :D

Cheers

[Matt N.]

I'll be in Newcastle both tomorrow & Sun, does anyone know if there will be some action over the weekend? If I had to pick a rough time when would be the best bet to catch some action? Lastly where is the spot to grab a looksee? I was just looking at Google maps and Medowie Rd there looks ok?

[Darren Mottram]

I'll be in Newcastle both tomorrow & Sun, does anyone know if there will be some action over the weekend? If I had to pick a rough time when would be the best bet to catch some action? Lastly where is the spot to grab a looksee? I was just looking at Google maps and Medowie Rd there looks ok?

Yes, Medowie rd is the spot, or the observation deck at the Fighterworld museum.

Sorry though Matt. I'm afraid our country is undefended on weekends. ;) There won't be any military flying at Willietown over the weekend.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Darren Mottram]

How much are the collector's editions? I could swap you a signed hard-cover Hornet book if you like? :D
Cheers

G'day again Andrew,

As much as I'd like one of your Hornet books, and I appreciate the offer, I need to actually sell these books as half the money still goes to Paul's wife and family.

The books are $250. They have the signatures of the 7 RAAF pilots who accumulated over 3000 hrs, Serge Dassault (son of Marcel), Juanita Franzi (the book's artist) Faye Mason (on behalf of Paul) and myself.

There were originally only 20 numbered copies made available for sale and quite a few of those have already gone.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Darren Mottram]

Here's what some of it looked like up here.

After watching them go crazy all week, they behaved themselves today. This was the only one that got a little boisterous.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_336-LR-001.jpg

This one seems to have some new nose art commemorating the trip. It says something about Downunder and I can make out a cartoon Kangaroo and an Eagle but I just can't quite make out the details.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_488-LR-1-001.jpg

The Sydney formation made a pass over the base on their way back.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_557-LR-001.jpg

On the pitch.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_585-LR-001.jpg

And another.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_590-LR-001.jpg

Hope you like 'em. :D

Cheers,
Motty.

[AdamC]

awesome shots darren, did anyone get any of them over sydney harbour?

[Andrew McLaughlin]

G'day again Andrew,

As much as I'd like one of your Hornet books, and I appreciate the offer, I need to actually sell these books as half the money still goes to Paul's wife and family.

The books are $250. They have the signatures of the 7 RAAF pilots who accumulated over 3000 hrs, Serge Dassault (son of Marcel), Juanita Franzi (the book's artist) Faye Mason (on behalf of Paul) and myself.

There were originally only 20 numbered copies made available for sale and quite a few of those have already gone.

Cheers,
Motty.

Fair enough - consider a Hornet book yours anyway, and I might bring some money next week for a Mirage book. I'll PM when I know when I'm coming up.

Cheers

[Stephen Brown]

Heres some vid from NBN

http://www.nbntv.com.au/index.php/2008/08/29/top-guns-in-training/

And the ministers Press Release

http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Fitzgibbontpl.cfm?CurrentId=8151

And an interesting article this morning in the Fairfax press about the HUG and only 10 planes being done.

http://news.smh.com.au/national/defence-to-upgrade-only-10-older-hornets-20080829-45h5.html

[Chris Primmer]

It was a little busy this morning at Williamtown,

Using 30 in great light,

We saw 20 Hornets, 4 Eagles, KC135, VBI, VUM, OTD, OTE, TAH, TLH, OZD.

OZD - Ozjet actually hit a plover on rotation and had to return to check for possible damage - to the plane!

Also the previously mentioned crew change happened on Saturday with another KC135 passing through Williamtown (@ 4.15pm)


ChrisP

[Andrew McLaughlin]

OZD - Ozjet actually hit a plover on rotation and had to return to check for possible damage - to the plane!

One less Plover in the world!!! :D

[Stephen Brown]

What Runway were they using Chris???

P.S. They are certainly making some noise tonight!!!!

[Darren Mottram]

What Runway were they using Chris???
P.S. They are certainly making some noise tonight!!!!

30, all day. :D

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_01_9999_1298-LR.jpg

Cheers,
Motty.
p.s. I think it's just Hawks tonight Steve.

[Gerard M]

How much longer are the eagles going to be up at here for?

Gerard

[Darren Mottram]

How much longer are the eagles going to be up at here for?
Gerard

The next three weeks I believe.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Gerard M]

The next three weeks I believe.

Cheers,
Motty.


Thanks for that Motty, was planning to go up when the An-124 came back, and by what you said looks like ill get it and the eagles!

[Nigel C]

Are they doing any exercises near Pokolbin at all, or is it all happening out to sea? I'll be giving the wineries up there a workout over the next few days.

[Mick F]

Do they give you days off Nigella?

[Nigel C]

Hi Michelle,

I'm on holidays for the next 20 days, so no more corporate stuff or indeed anything that relates to YSSY will be posted by me.

(I can hear the cheers!)

[andrew evans]

Does anyone know if they are flying on weekends

[Stephen Brown]

I'm afraid our country is undefended on weekends. ;) There won't be any military flying at Willietown over the weekend.


Missed this post, did you Andrew

30, all day.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!! Poo bugger bum **** ****

[andrew evans]

You could say that again

[Chris Primmer]

Hey another good THREE ZERO day with 5 eagles, 19 Hornets, KC135 up this morning between 9.20 & 10.30. Sorry Stephen

With the only hicupp was a pan call from one of the eagles noting loss of hydraulics and made a assisted landing with the arrester hook! Only 5 minutes later a Hornet has some issues but landed safely!


ChrisP

[Ahmet H]

Does anyone know if there is much happening at Willy today? I'm thinking of going up there after work for about 3:30pm.

[AdamC]

if anyone is intersted the air to air pics are now on the defence website.

about 10 pictures i think.

Cheers

[Chris Primmer]

Hey is it true that on this Saturday we will be getting another batch of F15's with 2x C17's and another KC135?


ChrisP

[Mike Y]

Hey is it true that on this Saturday we will be getting another batch of F15's with 2x C17's and another KC135?


ChrisP

Have heard murmurs that the OR ANG will be replaced by the HI ANG. No confirmation though.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Have heard murmurs that the OR ANG will be replaced by the HI ANG. No confirmation though.

Correct - they switch out this weekend.

Browneye and Chris - never got there this week in the end sorry guys. Might try to get up late next week.

Cheers

[Darren Mottram]

Some more of the action from "Fightertown Downunder" this week. ;)
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_01_9999_97-LR-2-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_03_0058-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_01_9999_893-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_01_9999_1236-LR.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_03_0080-LR-001.jpg

Cheers,
Motty.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Correct - they switch out this weekend.

Just some more on this - the Hawaii jets are due to arrive today sometime (don't know ETA sorry), and the Oregon jets depart tomorrow.

Great pics Motty!

Cheers

[Craig Murray]

Brisbane has a couple of US Military movements due this afternoon due between 3 and 5 with an AN124 also due in (thanks for the tip off Lloyd :))

I also understand USAF C-17 03-3119 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=03-3119&distinct_entry=true) is currently on the ground here after arriving last night.

Boom times!

[Stephen Brown]

It's a pity it's ****ing down rain here at Fightertown AUS!!

[Chris Primmer]

That's right! The Hawaiian's might turn round and go home!

Still go there tomorrow just in case!:cool:

Thanks for the heads up though Andrew.

Also notice on Darren's photo's that the KC135 had a differnent refueling thingymejigger!


ChrisP

[Stephen Brown]

About 4.15 heard 'Century 17' (C-17??) on the ILS for 30. Aussie voice though. Have 36Sqdrn changed call signs???

[Chris Primmer]

About 4.15 heard 'Century 17' (C-17??) on the ILS for 30. Aussie voice though. Have 36Sqdrn changed call signs???

Century is usually a Learjet or Westwind!

Strange but interesting????:confused:

ChrisP

[Darren Mottram]

Saw the Hawaiian Eagles crawling in through the murk about an hour ago.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Darren Mottram]

Does anyone know whether the Orang Eagles departed yesterday or not?

Cheers,
Motty.

[Craig Murray]

KC-10 and KC-135 tankers that were supporting the aircraft through to Guam both departed Brisbane yesterday morning so I dare say the Eagles eventually departed Billsville. The crew of the KC-135 did mention their departure was delayed 60-90mins due to the weather at Newcastle, the crosswinds were in excess of the F-15's limits at the time.

We still have a USAF C-17 on the ground here, 03-3119 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=03-3119&distinct_entry=true) is the serial.

Motty, your pictures have been exceptional.... please keep sharing them with us mate.

[andrew evans]

Was up at Willie town today and saw 3 C-17.2 of them departed at approx 1450hrs today. These are 3 Different c-17

[andrew evans]

This is another one from today.A C-17 and the F15's in in the back ground.

[andrew evans]

I was Sydney today spotting when a C-17 flew over the top at around 5000ft.It turned and started heading north i can only assume that it went up to Willie town.I dont think it went to Richmond but i could be wrong.It past over at around 0945 hrs.

[Tony G]

I was Sydney today spotting when a C-17 flew over the top at around 5000ft.It turned and started heading north i can only assume that it went up to Willie town.I dont think it went to Richmond but i could be wrong.It past over at around 0945 hrs.

We had one aussie and one US C-17 landing at YSRI at about 1415.

[Darren Mottram]

G'day All,

No C-17 here today (or USAF Tankers either come to think of it).

The wind and weather didn't do us spotters a lot of favors today but our new guests didn't waste any time getting stuck into their mission while they're here.

Managed to catch 5 of their jets today.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0622-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0889-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0905-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0979-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0995-LR-001.jpg

and we were treated to this surprise visitor as well. :D
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_08_0813-LR-001.jpg

Hoping the weather is better tomorrow.

Cheers,
Motty.

[andrew evans]

Gday Darren do you know if they have been flying at the same time of the day if so what are those times thanks mate.

[Darren Mottram]

Gday Darren do have they been flying around the same times during the day if so what are those times thanks mate.

G'day Andrew,

Today they (as in, a big wave of jets which included the Eagles in amongst them) launched around 0930-1000 and then again around 1430-1500 for 1 to 1.5hr sorties.

Cheers,
Motty.

[andrew evans]

Cool thanks mate i am going to come up on the 18th hopefully they will still be flying then.Awesome photos by the way

[Stephen Brown]

I'll finally be out there on Friday morning (12th) for some pics. looks like the weather is going to be good.

[Chris Primmer]

Hey Spotters,
Had 5 of the F15's up this morning,

76-052
77-077
78-502
78-511
78-528, leaving around 10am and returning about 11.30.

Also 12 Hornets and 10 Hawks,


I'll finally be out there on Friday morning (12th) for some pics. looks like the weather is going to be good.

Hope to see you there! NW winds forcast so Three Zero should be in operation.

ChrisP

[Craig Murray]

Word from Browneye with whom I just spoke is that all 6 Hickham F-15's flew this morning in gorgeous conditions.

Is envy good or bad?

:mad:

[Darren Mottram]

Word from Browneye with whom I just spoke is that all 6 Hickham F-15's flew this morning in gorgeous conditions.
Is envy good or bad?
:mad:

Yep, I can confirm that.:p
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_12_3004-LR-001.jpg

I'll resist the temptation to post any more from this morning. Browny has waited quite a while to catch these guys and I don't want to spoil his fun.;)

Cheers,
Motty.

[Craig Murray]

Love the shot Motty, i wish I'd been able to get there today. C'mon Browneye, we're waiting!

[Bob C]

They're all very old aircraft - 30/32 years old - but still very capable.

[Darren Mottram]

Some more shots of the Oregon jets while we're waiting for Browny's Hawaiian shots. (hint, hint ;) ) .

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_28_9999_20-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_08_29_9999_336-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_01_9999_1298-LR.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Oregon%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_03_0268-LR-001.jpg

Cheers,
Motty.

[Mick F]

Does anyone know if any Singapore Airforce aircraft were tracking north today?

I was held down at FL230 until an aircraft with the callsign "Singair XXX" passed above me at FL240, before I could continue up to FL270. This was in South West QLD.

Cheers

Mick

[Craig Murray]

"Singair XXX" passed above me at FL240

IFR pilots don't look up/outside? You're better than that Mick!

FL240 has C-130 written all over it as would the dirty black trail behind the aircraft!

[Mick F]

IFR pilots don't look up/outside?

You're right, I didn't bother, :). ATC just told me that I had traffic passing above me at FL240, and I heard them seperating us, so I never sighted them, :D.

Mick

[andrew evans]

Does anyone know if the Hawaiian eagles have been flying on a regular basis.

[Darren Mottram]

Does anyone know if the Hawaiian eagles have been flying on a regular basis.

Twice a day, every day except Friday (just the once).

Cheers,
Motty.

[andrew evans]

Thanks Darren I am going to attempt to make it up on Thursday.

[phil.l]

Darren would you know if any of the KC or C-17 still around Willy.

[Darren Mottram]

Darren would you know if any of the KC or C-17 still around Willy.

There hasn't been a tanker around all this week and the C-17s will only be there at the beginning and end of the deployments.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Darren Mottram]

Thanks Darren I am going to attempt to make it up on Thursday.

Good Luck. :D

Cheers,
Motty.

[Stephen Brown]

Just doing a bit of a confirm on the models we have here at the moment, it would appear we have a mixture of F-15A's and F-15C's. Am I correct?

The regs 78-0502, 78-0511, 78-0528 are C models according to scramble, but the others seems to be A models (77-0079,77-0077,76-0052)

So 3 C's and 3 A's???

[Darren Mottram]

Just doing a bit of a confirm on the models we have here at the moment, it would appear we have a mixture of F-15A's and F-15C's. Am I correct?
The regs 78-0502, 78-0511, 78-0528 are C models according to scramble, but the others seems to be A models (77-0079,77-0077,76-0052)
So 3 C's and 3 A's???

I believe so. Yes.

Interesting mix.

Cheers,
Motty.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Just doing a bit of a confirm on the models we have here at the moment, it would appear we have a mixture of F-15A's and F-15C's. Am I correct?

The regs 78-0502, 78-0511, 78-0528 are C models according to scramble, but the others seems to be A models (77-0079,77-0077,76-0052)

So 3 C's and 3 A's???

C Model production started to kick in in 1978, so it could be correct.

Won't get up there next week unfortunately...busier than a one armed wallpaper hanger at the moment!

[Stephen Brown]

Got some more of those important three hour meetings at the local Andrew??

[Grant Smith]

Macca,

Are you sure you're not related to our Nordic friend Gunnar Smithsen?

:D

[phil.l]

Thanks for the reply Darren.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Got some more of those important three hour meetings at the local Andrew??

Nah - going away on Wednesday to Coolum (tough, huh? :D) and have five days of work to do in the next two!

Are you sure you're not related to our Nordic friend Gunnar Smithsen?

I wish - he's a legend in my eyes! :eek:

[Stephen Brown]

Some of my pics of the visitors

Click on this Link (http://www.jetphotos.net/showphotos.php?aircraft=McDonnell+Douglas+F-15&airline=United+States+-+US+Air+Force+(USAF)&country=loc-Williamtown+Air+Force+Base+-+YWLM&photog=14474&category=-2&year=-2&keywordrange=all&keywordlimiter=2&keywords=&sort=1&genre=1&size=-2&mainsearch=search&displaymode=2&display=15)

[Mike Y]

I believe so. Yes.

Interesting mix.

Cheers,
Motty.

The F-15Cs are all ex-Kadena birds. Believe the older C-models are going to the Guard and Kadena should be getting younger aircraft from units (3rd Wing in Alaska?) that have converted to the Raptor.

I think despite the A and C designations, after MSIP and other fleet-wide upgrade programs, there is little, if any difference between the birds.

Good meeting you down at Fighter World last week Motty!

[Darren Mottram]

G'day Guys,

Good to meet you the other day too Mike.

I've finally found time to prepare some more shots of the Hawaii jets from this week. Managed to score another good 3-0 afternoon too. :D

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_16_4057-LR-001.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_16_4069-LR-002.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_16_4087-LR-002.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_16_4095-LR-002.jpg

http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_16_4127-LR002.jpg

The structure on the underside of this one's airbrake seems a bit unusual too.
http://users.tpg.com.au/hawk16/Aircraft-Photos/Hawaii%20Eagles%2008/Mottys-Photo_2008_09_19_4323-LR-002.jpg

Anyone know if they are leaving tomorrow (Sunday?)

Cheers,
Motty.

[Craig Murray]

Motty, a departure seems to be on the cards. A Hickham based KC-135, 62-3514 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=62-3514&distinct_entry=true), arrived in Brisbane this afternoon.

We also have C-17, 02-1112 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=02-1112&distinct_entry=true), on the ground after arriving in company with the above KC-135.

KC-10, 79-0433 (http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?regsearch=79-0433&distinct_entry=true), arrived on Thursday and is still parked here. This KC-10 was the first such example delivered to the USAF back in the early 80's.

As spotters we really have been treated to some great movements over the last few weeks.

[Stephen Brown]

Just to round up what has been a fantastic time for spotters at Williamtown, we have a rare gem visitor sitting on the Tarmac as of 17:00 this Sunday afternoon.

A C-5 Galaxy has arrived to take some stuff home and is sitting down near the tower. Not sure when everything is departing, however we have a C-5, a KC-135, with the F-15's all sitting out in the afternoon sunshine.

I had a quick chat to some USAF chaps who were dropping off hire cars over at the DOM carpark, and they didn't know of a departure time. But if they are dropping off the Hire Cars, it can't be too far away.

Would be a shame if they departed in the dark.

[phil.l]

Stephen did you get the rego of the C-5?

[Stephen Brown]

Phil, Sorry, no rego. It was to far away from where I was.

[phil.l]

Ok, cheers Stephen.

[Gerard M]

I must say, i went up to see the An-124 on Thursday and when the Eagles took off it was a fantastic sights, climbed straight up after take off!

Anyone get a photo that they can post up of the C-5?

That would be great if you did! And/Or know when its meant to leave?

Cheers

[Craig Murray]

Don't recall the last time a thread I posted was this popular!

Here's one for the C-17 lovers.... it looks like they're going to be out doing some low flying along the following Low Jet Route tomorrow between 1100 and 1530 local time.

Sourced from Airservices Australia (http://www.airservicesaustralia.com/brief/locnbrf.asp)

LJR SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL QUEENSLAND MIL C17 JET ACFT OPR ON THE
FLW ROUTE
HAMILTON ISLAND / S20 44.04 E148 46.59 / S20 46.02 E148 44.87 / S20
59.57 E148 33.10 / S21 01.66 E148 23.93 / S21 02.48 E148 20.30 / S21
32.16 E148 42.13 / S22 07.94 E148 52.63 / S22 09.77 E148 53.17 / S22
33.90 E148 59.31 / S22 34.05 E148 59.26 / S22 48.10 E148 54.31 / S23
08.42 E148 50.28 / S23 34.55 E148 31.69 / S23 34.55 E148 31.50 /
EMERALD / S23 34.48 E148 10.74 / S24 20.88 E149 02.32 / S24 20.88
E149 02.32 / S24 22.03 E149 02.26 / S24 53.08 E149 00.63 / S25 23.86
E149 47.42 / S25 26.54 E149 51.53 / S25 26.89 E149 52.26 / S26 02.06
E151 05.66 /S26 02.06 E151 05.56 / S26 51.70 E151 14.40 / S26 52.15
E151 14.48 / S27 15.04 E151 00.73 / S27 15.43 E151 00.49 / S27 15.56
E151 00.60 / S27 47.23 E151 25.80 / S27 48.04 E151 25.98 / S28 12.07
E151 31.27 / S28 11.96 E151 31.92 / S28 03.00 E152 23.52 / S27 49.56
E152 27.61 / S27 42.55 E152 29.73 / S27 38.66 E152 42.46 / AMBERLEY
SFC TO 5000FT AGL
FROM 09 230100 TO 09 230530


Anyone care to plot this puppy? I dare say there would be some stupendously excellent photo opportunity somewhere!

[Stephen Brown]

Any news on the C-5??

[Mike Y]

This is some thread! Here are my contributions for the F-15s:

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6360892

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6363776

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6364344

[phil.l]

According to another web site C-5 rego 68-0226, If anyone could comfirm that would be great.

[Dave Powell]

Hi

I was up at Willy on Friday - there were 2 C-17's there - one was RAAF A41-208 - the other departed just before I arrived at about 11.55am - anyone have any idea of the id of this one??

MTIA

Dave