Air Force jets in to deliver essential health services
The Royal Australian Air Force’s annual visit to far north Queensland this month is underway to deliver essential health services and deepening ties with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the region.
from the beginning of this month to November 6 Exercise Kummundoo, now in its 11th year, is a community engagement initiative delivered in partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).
The program supports Air Force’s reconciliation commitments while contributing to better health outcomes in regional and remote Indigenous communities.
Exercise Detachment Commander, Wing Commander Elisha Kropp, said the exercise is focused on listening, learning, and making meaningful contributions.
“Exercise Kummundoo reflects our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. It’s also an opportunity for Air Force members to connect with communities, share knowledge, and deliver services that make a meaningful difference,” Wing Commander Kropp said.
The Defence Science and Technology Group will also deliver STEM activities
Air Force health specialists and Indigenous Engagement Officers will work alongside the Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Services Clinic in Mareeba to deliver dental care, environmental health services, physical wellbeing support and mental health promotion.
NACCHO CEO Pat Turner AM, emphasised the importance of community control in improving health outcomes.
“Through Exercise Kummundoo, the Air Force is walking alongside our sector, listening, learning, and contributing in practical ways that make a difference. This is how we strengthen trust, improve health, and create real opportunities for our communities,” Ms Turner said.
Outreach services will also extend to Atherton and Kuranda, reaching communities across a 72-kilometre area.
In additional to health services, the Defence Science and Technology Group will deliver STEM activities and Air Force will speak with local youth to promote inclusive and supportive Defence career pathways for Indigenous Australians.
Focussed on health outcomes
Exercise Kummundoo 2025 Indigenous Engagement Officer, Flight Lieutenant Patricia Thompson, said the team is focussed on both health outcomes and inspiring future leaders.
“By sharing our experiences and creating space for open conversations, we hope to encourage more young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to consider a future in Defence,” Flight Lieutenant Thompson said.
Exercise Kummundoo supports the Australian Government’s closing the gap strategy and reflects Air Force’s commitment to working in partnership with Traditional Custodians to build trust, capability, and lasting connections.
