Corporal Nick Winkler never imagined that his career with the Air Force would include hitting the surf with mates.
He loves his job as a loadmaster and, as a member of the Air Force Surf Riders Association, his passions for both aviation and surfing having reached ultimate harmony.
Joining as an aircraft support technician with Air Force Gap Year in 2021, Corporal Winkler later remustered to loadmaster, where he feels his true passion for aviation is fulfilled.
Posted to 35 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley, Corporal Winkler works on C-27J Spartan aircraft.
Loadmasters are responsible for the management of aircraft loads on the ground and while airborne, in tactical through to strategic environments.
His job gives him lots of opportunity to travel, which is something he longed for while growing up in Coffs Harbour.
"The ADF, and my role specifically, offers a lot of opportunities. From international engagements to ADF sport, to personal growth and professional development," Corporal Winkler said.
"After graduating the loadmaster course, I was put on the first rotation of 2024 for the Defence Pacific Aid Program where we went to Papua New Guinea.
"Working alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force was one of many highlights I've encountered at 35 Squadron so far.
"I joined the RAAF in chase of the unique lifestyle, humanitarian aid opportunities and mateship the ADF has to offer. I have never travelled before so being in a job where I can travel is a big selling point for me."
Growing up in Coffs Harbour, Corporal Winkler loved beautiful beaches, good waves and playing soccer with his mates.
So he was pleasantly surprised he could nurture these passions with an Air Force career, with his role as Queensland Charter Captain of the Air Force Surf Riders Association.
"During my Air Force Gap Year I found out about the Air Force Surf Riders Association and the events they run," Corporal Winkler said.
"It didn't take a lot of convincing to sign me up as a member. Taking a couple of weeks a year to surf and compete with Army, Air Force and Navy is a great way to meet people of all ranks and build relationships.
"An all-time highlight within the Air Force Surf Riders Association for me would definitely be meeting one of Australia's best surfers, Jack Robinson, during the ADF development camp held at the Surfing Australia High Performance Centre at Casuarina."
Participating in sporting passions is one of the many perks of working in Defence and allows members to network and connect with people they wouldn't normally come across in the day-to-day working environment.
"In my time at the Air Force Surf Riders Association I have made great mates who have been a great support, and encouraging during my transition from Gap Year to permanent Air Force, through training to graduating as a loadmaster," Corporal Winkler said.
