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In 2025, 1Wing also celebrated its 75ths, this photo shows those who attended the Freedom of Entry Parade. Photo credit: Simone Lennox
Since The Formation Of No. 3 Flight AIRTC INGHAM, QUEENSLAND
103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is proud to celebrate its 75th Anniversary in 2026, marking seventy-five years of service, leadership development and community involvement in the Hinchinbrook region.
The squadron traces its origins to No. 3 Flight, Air Training Corps (AIRTC), which was officially formed in Ingham on 7 August 1951. What began as a small Air Training Corps flight has evolved over the decades into the modern 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets.
Historical records from The History of North Queensland Squadron Air Training Corps by Flight Lieutenant Allan D. Wakeham reveal that No. 3 Flight AIRTC was established through the efforts of members of the Halifax Aero Club, local community leaders and Royal Australian Air Force personnel who recognised the value of providing aviation and leadership opportunities to local young people.
The inaugural Flight Commander was Flight Lieutenant Reid Johnson, a respected local businessman and wartime navigator, who commanded the flight from its formation in 1951 until 1970. The original flight consisted of 21 cadets from across the district, many travelling from surrounding communities to attend parade nights and training activities.
Throughout its history, the squadron has played an important role in developing young people through leadership training, aviation education, fieldcraft, teamwork, citizenship and community service.
Generations of cadets have benefited from the opportunities provided by the organisation, with many former members going on to serve in the Australian Defence Force, emergency services and leadership roles within their communities.
The squadron has witnessed significant change over its seventy-five-year history, adapting to evolving training methods, organisational reforms and the changing needs of young Australians while maintaining its commitment to developing character, resilience and leadership.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, 103 Squadron has introduced a commemorative 75th Anniversary emblem recognising both its origins as No. 3 Flight AIRTC and its continued service to the Ingham and Hinchinbrook communities. The design incorporates the iconic Huey helicopter long associated with the squadron and acknowledges the rich history of the unit.
A 75th Anniversary Dinner is also planned for Saturday the 5th September 2026 at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL. The event will provide an opportunity for former and current cadets, staff, volunteers, families and supporters to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the achievements of the squadron over the past seventy-five years.
"For 75 years, 103 Squadron has been developing young people from across the Hinchinbrook region. This anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the dedication of the cadets, staff, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to the squadron's success and ensured its continued service to the community."
The squadron encourages former members and community supporters to share photographs, memorabilia and stories from their time with No. 3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron as part of the anniversary celebrations.
From its beginnings as No. 3 Flight AIRTC in 1951 to the Australian Air Force Cadets squadron it is today, 103 Squadron remains committed to developing the next generation of young Australians through challenge, opportunity and service.
Key Milestones
7 August 1951 – No. 3 Flight AIRTC established in Ingham
1951 – Original intake of 21 cadets enrolled
1971 – Construction commenced on facilities at the current airfield location
1977 – Re-establishment and rebuilding of the cadet movement following national changes
1982 – Females were able to join the AIRTC, with the first female cadet to join at Ingham in November 1982
2001 – The Air Training Corps evolved and change its name to the Australian Air Force Cadets
2026 – 75th Anniversary of No.3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron
About 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets
The 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is based in Ingham, Queensland, and forms part of the Australian Air Force Cadets. Since 1951, the unit has provided aviation focused youth development opportunities through leadership training, fieldcraft, community service, teamwork and adventure-based activities.
(Contributed with thanks by Corporal (AAFC) Simone Lennox of the c103 SQN AAFC)
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