Growing up on a cattle farm near Wingham, NSW, Flight Lieutenant Bradley McMaster never imagined he'd one day be leading high-stakes missions across the Indo-Pacific with the Air Force.
Flight Lieutenant McMaster now serves as a maritime patrol and response officer (MRPO) with 292 Squadron, where he plays a crucial role in training the next generation of operators on the P-8A Poseidon.
As an MRPO, he oversees the aircraft's crew, weapons and sensors, ensuring they work together to achieve mission objectives.
"We're tasked with a wide range of missions, whether tracking submarines or conducting search and rescue," Flight Lieutenant McMaster said.
"The most rewarding part is knowing that the work we do can save lives, like when we helped bring home a missing fishing vessel after it had been lost at sea for four days."
Throughout his career, Flight Lieutenant McMaster has participated in numerous important missions, including securing Australia's northern borders under Operation Resolute, taking part in multinational exercises like Rim of the Pacific, and providing humanitarian relief - such as supporting Fiji after a natural disaster.
"I've had the chance to work alongside allies like the US, Japan and India on various missions," he said.
"Each experience brings new challenges and valuable lessons."
'It's a day for everyone to remember the men and women who came before us. Both my grandfather and uncle served in the military, and I'll be thinking of them while marching on Anzac Day.'
Flight Lieutenant McMaster's journey began at Wingham High School, where he was active in local swimming, soccer and rugby clubs.
Inspired by his uncle, a former Army major, Flight Lieutenant McMaster joined the Air Force in 2013.
After completing his studies at the Australian Defence Force Academy and training as a navigator, he joined 292 Squadron in 2016, flying as a navigator communicator on the AP-3C Orion before transitioning to his current role on the P-8A.
"I've had the opportunity to travel the world and take part in operations I never imagined," he said.
"I enjoy my job because it doesn't feel like work - it is something I look forward to every day."
As an instructor, Flight Lieutenant McMaster now focuses on training the next generation of aviators, ensuring they're prepared for future challenges.
"It's a privilege to pass on my knowledge and contribute to the safety of our country," he said.
In the lead up to Anzac Day, Flight Lieutenant McMaster reflected on its significance to him.
"It's a day for everyone to remember the men and women who came before us. Both my grandfather and uncle served in the military, and I'll be thinking of them while marching on Anzac Day," he said.
