A CAC-18 Mustang and Supermarine Mk VIII Spitfire have flown in a formation with the next generation of air power for the first time at the Australian International Airshow.
The heritage aircraft from No 100 squadron were joined by a F/A-18F Super Hornet and F-35A Lightning II as the sun set over the Avalon airfield. Air Force Heritage aircraft are always crowd pleasers at airshows but this line up was an amazing arrival
"It's a formation that we've never flown before and no one's ever seen," Flight Lieutenant Christopher Tulk who will play a pivotal role in showcasing the CAC-18 Mustang, at the airshow said.
"It's called the Swan Formation, with me leading in the CAC-18 Mustang, followed by the Supermarine Mk VIII Spitfire, and then the F/A-18F Super Hornet and the F-35A Lightning II."
Flight Lieutenant Tulk of the Royal Australian Air Force's No. 100 Squadron has carved out a distinguished career in aviation. From a teenage glider pilot in Barnawartha, North East Victoria - to a skilled display aviator, his journey embodies passion, dedication - and a deep commitment to preserving Australia's aviation heritage.
Flight Lieutenant Tulk's fascination with aviation took flight early.
"I've wanted to be an Air Force pilot for as long as I can remember," he said.
Despite having no family ties to aviation, his first glider experience at 14 years old and solo flight at age 15, cemented his ambition.
"I spent all my pocket money on aviation magazines and absorbed everything about the Air Force," he recalled. His dedication paid off when he was accepted into pilot training in 1991, with Air Force.
Based at Royal Australian Air Force Base Point Cook and the Temora Aviation Museum, the squadron operates airworthy warbirds and conduct flying displays that honour veterans and inspire future generations of aviators.
"The display day itself is almost the easiest part, with preparation in the lead-up to being key" he said.
Meticulous planning precedes every event, from crafting routines to assessing risks and logistics.
Each day begins with weather checks, authorisation briefs, and aircraft inspections.
"Once we're strapped in and ready to start the engine, the hard work is done," he said.
Safety remains paramount, with pre-flight briefings address weather impacts, potential obstacles, and emergency procedures.
"We ensure everyone is physically fit and aligned on the flight plan," Flight Lieutenant Tulk said
"We often walk through the flight to guarantee a shared understanding."
While ground crews conduct pre-flight inspections, Flight Lieutenant Tulk and his team verify fuel and oil levels, assess flight controls, and check for potential issues.
"Flying these older aircraft requires extra care," he said, acknowledging the challenges of low-level aerobatics and formation manoeuvres.
Post-flight debriefings focus on safety and performance refinement.
"We discuss what went right and wrong and explore ways to improve," he said.
"It's incredible to fly a fighter nearly 70 years older than the F-35A Lightning II.
"These aircraft have so much history, and it's beautiful machine to fly. I get a kick out of flying it every single time."
His journey from aviation enthusiast to Air Force display pilot underscores his dedication to excellence, while No. 100 Squadron's mission continues to keep Australia's rich aviation legacy alive.
