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The WAAAF Tocumwal Creek Walk:
This walk from Tocumwal township to the site of the former Tocumwal Aerodrome township,commemorates the war-time presence of the Royal Australian Air Force in Tocumwal.
This path linked the small township with the largest airforce establishment in Australia,comprising, at its peak, 4,581 RAAF servicemen and 422 WAAAF service-women.WAAAF accommodation and administration buildings were located in the south-west corner of the aerodrome. In this bush setting, there marched and walked, strolled and lingered, hundreds of young men and women in the wartime airforce blue.
422 WAAAF’s were essential to the running of Tocumwal aerodrome. They were key elements in signals communications, flying administration, aircraft, engine, instruments and parachute maintenance, driving, stores and offices. Their skills in these areas
released many men for active duty, thus making a double contribution to the war effort.
They remember their service with pride. WAAAF’s were needed by the Air Force and they fulfilled their roles with flair and competence.
WAAAF’s remember their time at Tocumwal as being a culture shock after their sheltered family lives. Community living in spartan conditions, learning trades and working alongside men, were all exciting challenges. Male/female ratio was ten to one, so they had a full social life - engagements and weddings were frequent.
They recall the time with happiness. Close, long-lasting friendships were formed. WAAAF reunions are still strong and well attended.
This path linked the small township with the largest airforce establishment in Australia,comprising, at its peak, 4,581 RAAF servicemen and 422 WAAAF service-women.WAAAF accommodation and administration buildings were located in the south-west corner of the aerodrome. In this bush setting, there marched and walked, strolled and lingered, hundreds of young men and women in the wartime airforce blue.
422 WAAAF’s were essential to the running of Tocumwal aerodrome. They were key elements in signals communications, flying administration, aircraft, engine, instruments and parachute maintenance, driving, stores and offices. Their skills in these areas
released many men for active duty, thus making a double contribution to the war effort.
They remember their service with pride. WAAAF’s were needed by the Air Force and they fulfilled their roles with flair and competence.
WAAAF’s remember their time at Tocumwal as being a culture shock after their sheltered family lives. Community living in spartan conditions, learning trades and working alongside men, were all exciting challenges. Male/female ratio was ten to one, so they had a full social life - engagements and weddings were frequent.
They recall the time with happiness. Close, long-lasting friendships were formed. WAAAF reunions are still strong and well attended.
Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome Museum, P.O. Box 47, Tocumwal, New South Wales, 2714.
Copyright 2011 Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome Museum
