Great Scott: is that a DeLorean?
RAAF Base Edinburgh members did a double-take when they saw a DeLorean drive through the base.
A replica of the DMC DeLorean from the film series Back to the Future visited, coinciding with the release of ticket registration for the Edinburgh Precinct Annual Family Day. The DeLorean is one of many features that will be on show at the free event on October 24.
The DeLorean's owner is Daniel Bergineti, who also owns the company Benleigh Vending Systems. Benleigh is the supplier of the vending machines across various Defence establishments. Working under the auspices of AAFCANS, extensive proceeds from the machines are invested back into base welfare activities.
"I get enjoyment out of seeing other people enjoy the car," Mr Bergineti said.
"It took me a long time to find one - and then there was the registration process. It has all been worth it as the community really enjoys it."
RAAF Base Edinburgh Senior ADF Officer Wing Commander Craig Keane test-drove the car. As an engineer by trade, he was beyond amazed.
"Are you telling [me] this sucker is nuclear?" Wing Commander Keane exclaimed.
Shortly following the drive, he was seen installing cables for a 'weather experiment' while discussing something about 1.21 gigawatts and funding for a clock tower.
Commanding Officer 11 Squadron Wing Commander Adam Saber compared the experience of the DeLorean with one of his P-8As.
"The acceleration is incredible. I hit 88mph in no time! What's more, the hover conversion takes this vehicle to a whole new level," he said.
"Who needs a road or runway? The only issue is that the re-entry is a little bumpy."
Disruptive Air Power lead Group Captain Pete Mitchell was impressed by the cutting-edge capabilities on show.
"This is heavy!" Group Captain Mitchell said.
"The ability to travel through time using systems such as the time circuits and flux capacitor is a game changer, not to mention the applications for the hoverboard."
Doffing his Walkman after listening to Huey Lewis' The power of love, Officer in Charge of Edinburgh Welfare Squadron Leader Brendon Knopke highlighted that the annual family day was designed to be a fun and enjoyable activity for Edinburgh Precinct members and their families, and to thank everyone for the hard effort and work throughout the year.
Chaplain Patrick Garton, who helped facilitate the car's visit, seemed more interested in the Grays Sports Almanac, searching for when his beloved Adelaide Crows will win their next AFL premiership. He is still looking.
"This felt like a moment of density … I mean destiny," he said.
Attendees at the family day will be able to get up close and personal with the DeLorean, with a few lucky visitors being taken for a drive.
On the day, visitors will be encouraged to make a gold coin donation to the Reily Foundation, which specialises in support to families and at-risk children.
To find out more information about the family day, click here.
