RAAF Base Wagga is set to use its right to Freedom of Entry and hold a parade later this year marking 85 years of service. Photo: File.
The Royal Australian Air Force is set to use its right to Freedom of Entry to hold a street parade honouring 85 years in Wagga Wagga.
RAAF Base Wagga, often referred to as the ”Home of the Airman”, is responsible for training newly recruited members of the air force and has been doing so since World War II.
Comprising about 1600 Australian Defence Force, civilian and contracted personnel, the base is one of the biggest in Australia and one of two military bases in Wagga Wagga, alongside the Kapooka Army Barracks.
According to Wagga Wagga City business papers, the parade is set to be held on 18 October and coincide with the city’s Fusion multicultural festival.
“RAAF Base Wagga has advised its intention to exercise its right to Freedom of Entry to the City of Wagga Wagga on 18 October 2025,” the papers read.
“This ceremonial privilege recognises the longstanding relationship between the city and RAAF Base Wagga since its establishment in 1940 and the original Freedom of the City proclamation in 1961.
“The last Freedom of Entry was exercised on 2 August 2015 during the base’s 75th anniversary celebrations. The proposed 2025 event will commemorate the base’s 85th anniversary and further reinforce the enduring connection between the Australian Defence Force and the local community.
“The parade will be held during the day on 18 October 2025 and will coincide with council’s Fusion multicultural festival, scheduled for the afternoon and evening. This presents a unique opportunity to showcase Wagga Wagga as a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming community.
“In recognition of international defence partnerships and civic ties, the Mayor has extended an invitation to a delegation from the City of Leavenworth (a sister city with strong defence affiliations) to attend both the Freedom of Entry event and the Fusion Festival.”
Costs for the event are expected to be about $10,000; however, Wagga City Council has proposed covering this with its 2025-26 Road Closure Budget and Mayoral and Civic Functions Budget.
According to the report, RAAF representatives have been planning the parade with the council since March.
“Initial consultation commenced with a formal letter from Squadron Leader Lisa Casey dated 25 March 2025, requesting approval to exercise their right to Freedom of Entry,” the report reads.
”Planning discussions have since been held between council staff and Defence representatives, with further coordination scheduled at a multi-agency planning meeting on 23 June 2025.
“Broad communications regarding the event timing will be issued following the finalisation of planning, with direct notification to affected businesses to occur closer to the event.”
