Philip Huntley

Firefighters have to be fit, given the demanding role they play in our communities, so snowboarding, bushwalking and mountain bike riding are natural hobbies for firefighters like Philip Huntley.

Toward the end of high school at Wodonga, Philip had an inkling that joining the ADF would give him opportunities at home and abroad, and a job as a firefighter in the Royal Australian Air Force would ensure he wasn’t stuck behind a desk and would do something different every day.

Leading Aircraftman Philip Huntley knew his Grandfather had served in the Army, but he always wanted an Air Force career.

“Day to day I have to be ready to respond to airfield emergencies or structural incidents on base when a fire alarm activates,” said Leading Aircraftman (LAC) Huntley.

“But it’s not just about emergencies, we have to service our trucks and equipment and constantly upgrade our skills and knowledge with theory and practical training.

“Being busy makes the time go quickly and I can’t believe how many places the Air Force has sent me to work around Australia, and the great mates I have made across the country,” he said.

Presently based at RAAF Base Williamtown, Philip has been deployed to exercises and operations including to the Australian International Air Show, Avalon.

“Experiencing the world’s best aircraft as part of the ADF contingent to the air show and having the opportunity to meet my then-Chief, Air Marshal Davies, was a great thrill,” said LAC Huntley.