From the early days when the naval air station was little more than a runway and some tin sheds to now, when it supports a flourishing civilian industry, Albatross, as its affectionately known, has always been an integral part of the Shoalhaven.

Over the decades, we have watched it grow, seen it suffer setbacks such as the scrapping of the Fleet Air Arm, felt its grief in the face of tragedies such as the Nias crash, and swelled with pride at its many achievements.

Its place in the community used to be symbolised by the Sea Venom at the top of Kinghorne Street and is now marked by the Iroquois on the highway. And barely a day or night passes without the Navy’s presence being seen or heard over Nowra and surrounds.

That presence is felt also in the economy, where Defence-related industries have sprung up around the base, employing a significant number of people. And it is felt by our schools, which have enjoyed close ties with the base and its personnel, who from time to time drop into school grounds in their choppers.

In observing the 60th anniversary of the base’s presence here, all of us at the South Coast Register would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have served and continue to do so at HMAS Albatross.