RAAF Williams

Did the “father” of the RAAF ever envision his name gracing a base spanning two iconic locations? RAAF Williams, a sprawling air force base, stretches across Point Cook and Laverton, southwest of Melbourne’s bustling center. This isn’t just any base. RAAF Williams holds a piece of aviation history, a legacy woven into the fabric of Australia’s military past. Point Cook, one of the two sites making up RAAF Williams, is where it all began. The birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force, Point Cook holds the title of the oldest continuously operating military airfield worldwide. Established before World War I as the Australian Flying Corps’ training grounds, Point Cook witnessed the fledgling days of Australian military aviation. The base later transitioned into the RAAF, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s defense history. Today, RAAF Williams at Point Cook isn’t just a historical landmark. It’s a living museum, home to the RAAF Museum. Here, visitors can step back in time, exploring a vast collection of aircraft and memorabilia, tracing the evolution of the RAAF from its early years to modern times. Laverton, the second site of RAAF Williams, boasts its own rich history. Built in 1925, Laverton is the third oldest RAAF base. It’s a hub of activity, housing the Headquarters Air Force Training Group and other crucial units. This site played a role in the 1956 Summer Olympics, hosting the shotgun shooting events. Even commercial aviation history touched Laverton when it served as the launching point for the first Trans Australia Airlines flight in 1946. RAAF Williams, a name synonymous with Australian air power, represents more than just a military base. It’s a testament to innovation, dedication, and the evolution of flight. It is a place where history takes flight.