The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has touched down in Mareeba, Queensland, for Exercise Kummundoo 2025 — a five-week initiative bringing vital health services and community engagement to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Far North Queensland.
Running from 1 October to 6 November, the annual exercise — now in its 11th year — is a partnership between the Air Force and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). It aims to strengthen reconciliation efforts while improving health outcomes in regional and remote Indigenous communities.
Exercise Detachment Commander, Wing Commander Elisha Kropp, said in a statement that this deployment was about more than service delivery — it was about connection and collaboration. “Exercise Kummundoo reflects our ongoing commitment to reconciliation.”
“It’s also an opportunity for Air Force members to connect with communities, share knowledge, and deliver services that make a meaningful difference.”
Air Force health specialists and Indigenous Engagement Officers are working alongside the Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Services Clinic in Mareeba to provide dental care, environmental health services, physical wellbeing support and mental health promotion.
NACCHO CEO Pat Turner AM said the initiative showed how collaboration could strengthen trust and outcomes. “Through Exercise Kummundoo, the Air Force is walking alongside our sector, listening, learning, and contributing in practical ways that make a difference.”
“This is how we strengthen trust, improve health, and create real opportunities for our communities.”
The exercise also includes outreach to Atherton and Kuranda, extending services across a 72-kilometre area. Beyond health delivery, the Defence Science and Technology Group is engaging local youth in STEM activities, while Air Force members are promoting inclusive Defence career pathways for Indigenous Australians.
Exercise Indigenous Engagement Officer, Flight Lieutenant Patricia Thompson, said inspiring young people was a key focus.
“By sharing our experiences and creating space for open conversations, we hope to encourage more young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to consider a future in Defence.”
Exercise Kummundoo 2025 supports the Australian Government’s Closing the Gap strategy and highlights the Air Force’s commitment to working with Traditional Custodians to build trust, capability and lasting connections.
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