485 Squadron Reunion and Air Display

[pjw4118]

Here's a notice received today which may be of interest. I will certainly be there to watch the 30 minute display by two spitfires and a P51

[pjw4118]

I did a bit of a recce today and Kowhai Rd offers a close view of the threshold while Punga Rd is the closest to the hangars. Brigham Creek Rd is on the other side of the airfield and is probably best for the display. Be warned , the locals arrive early !

[fwx]

Whoa; Spitfire just flew over Devonport, heading in the direction of Whenuapai? Only caught a glimpse but looked like AL??

[fwx]

Whichever one it was, it went back in the other direction an hour or so later ...
Don't suppose it matters, just so nice to hear that magic sound overhead, and reminds me to make some time on the weekend to slip across to Whenuapai.

[lesterpk]

Nope it was Dougs 2 seater, and the display practice looked pretty good from just in front of 40Sqn hangar. And it sounded even better.

[pjw4118]

After its 10 minute routine the spitfire came over the kids touch rugby field. A few balls were dropped.
See you there on Saturday

[lesterpk]

Display of 2x SPitfire and a P51 planned for around 1500 Sat. They fly in earlier in the day and plan to leave Sunday.

[McFly]

Spitfire mounted up at the 485 Wing HQ as part of the static displays for this weekends 485 (NZ) Sqn reunion.



Sqn Ldr Doug Brown's WW2 flying kit on display at the Wing HQ.

[oggie2620]

OK guys I expect lots of photos since I am on the other side of the world grinding my teeth in envy!

[Deleted]

Was hoping to get to this but working unfortunately.... looking forward to the photos

[Peter Lewis]

Brendon Deere's Spitfire Mk.IX arrived about 10.40am, and parked beside the tower



The Mustang flew in just before midday





Last to arrive was the Spitfire Mk IX which carried out a brief routine before landing just after midday.

Seen on long final for 03, above the runway renovation works





All three lined up ready for the afternoon

[Dave Homewood]

I had a fantastic day today as a guest at the No. 485 (NZ) Squadron reunion. Thanks to Marty and the No. 485 (NZ) Squadron association for such a wonderful afternoon. Seeing the two Spitfires together, and the Mustang as well, was really special. It was good to catch up with several forumites, Marty, Nick McIndoe, Brendon Deere, etc. It was good to catch up wih several veterans too, Owen Hardy, Ken Lee, Harvey Sweetman, Max Collett and Doug Brown who I met for the first time. It was great to meet Hamish Brown, Doug's son too. I have been reading the book by Doug and Hamish, "Wine, Women and Song". It's awesome, a review will follow soon when I get the bookfinished.

The displays by Graham Bethell, Sean Perritt and Doug Brooker were brilliant. This is the first time I have ever seen two Spitfires in the air together, and it was such a treat. It was a historic occasion too in that both were together in one place at the same time for the first time. The sound of three Merlins together in formation is simply heaven.

[Kereru]

Great pics Peter! I saw the Mustang and Spitfire take off from Ardmore as we were having brunch. I was treating Heather as promised so no camera allowed. It was great too but my shutter finger got itchy as the Mustang and Spit passed by. :-)

Was it open to the Public or just a private event?

Colin

[Dave Homewood]

It was a private event by invite only, but base personnel were allowed to have a look, and there was a massive row of cars at the fence too, waiting for the display.

Here's a few photos from Kerry Carlyle who accompanied me, but he's kicking himself as his camera was on the wrong ISO setting and he never realised.

[Dave Homewood]

More from Kerry:

[fwx]

Wonderful sight, wonderful flying, very impressed by Doug Brooker's display.

[johnnyfalcon]

Brilliant pics! Cheers :-)

[obiwan27]

Fantastic pics, hope these guys are displaying at Omaka.

[baz62]

Love the shot of the two seat MK IX going vertical. Thanks for sharing guys.

[Dave Homewood]

Great photos!!