Assistant Minister for Defence - Redeveloped RAAF Base East Sale officially reopens with formal ceremony

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Media release

Related ministers and contacts


The Hon Darren Chester MP

Assistant Minister for Defence

Media contact
  • Brie Colley (Mr Chester’s office) (02) 6277 4029
  • James Cannon (Tribunal) 0433 884 238
  • Defence Media (02) 6127 1999

Release content

7 October 2015

The Assistant Minister for Defence and Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, and Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, AO, CSC, today officially opened the RAAF Base East Sale redevelopment.

Minister Chester said that the day was an opportunity to celebrate the culmination of the past three years of the $185 million construction project.

“With its former World War II-era buildings, RAAF Base East Sale was long overdue for new and upgraded facilities to meet both current and future training requirements,” he said.

“This extensive redevelopment is also significant within the community for its considerable local economic benefits. As the local Member, I have had great personal satisfaction in witnessing the local construction industry directly benefitting from this extensive project.”

Minister Chester toured the redevelopment, including new and refurbished accommodation for Air Force personnel, training facilities, commercial facilities including a café and post office, and an air-traffic control tower. The tour concluded at the new gym development with the official opening ceremony and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.

Air Marshal Davies said the new facilities would set up East Sale for future needs.

“RAAF Base East Sale is a significant base for our officer training, and is the location of several specialised flight-training schools,” said Air Marshal Davies.

“These new and improved facilities will serve Air Force and our dedicated men and women for many years to come.”

Media note:

Imagery will be available later today through the Defence Image Library: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20152801

Media contacts:

Brie Colley (Assistant Minister's Office) 0475 962 448

James Twining (Assistant Minister's Office) 0428 998 544

Defence Media (02) 6127 1999

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