The idea grew from a suggestion by the squadron's Cadet Flight Sergeant that the 80th anniversary could be an opportunity to show its ongoing commitment to youth.
A 420 Benalla Rural City Squadron spokesperson said local student, and upcoming indigenous artist, Chenquia Huxley, was approached to complete a work on its behalf.
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“(She was approached as a result of) the fantastic work she has produced for other organisations in and around the district recently, including a large piece for the Albury-Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service,” the spokesperson said.
“Her brief was to encompass . . . the sky, lands, waterways and bird life that make up the district and are part of the indigenous background of country and its peoples, along with linking it to our squadron.
“The result is a unique piece of art.”
Cadets drew inspiration to have the artwork commissioned having seen indigenous art recently painted for the RAAF's No 22 Squadron.
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Their commanding officer Shane Nedeljkovic said it was a chance to enhance cadets’ understanding of cultural awareness.
“(They did that) through the commissioning of a special artwork for the occasion, which would not only celebrate our anniversary, but also show our place and links in country whilst paying respect to our local first nation peoples,” Mr Nedeljkovic said.
“Chenquia's great-grandfather served as an airframe mechanic with the RAAF during World War II being stationed in Darwin during the bombings in 1942, adding to the Air Force connection.”
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