A proud part of the Hawkesbury and wider Sydney community, RAAF Base Richmond’s roots in the area extend more than a century, and today it continues to provide an important role for Defence.

RAAF Base Richmond is located within the City of Hawkesbury, between Windsor and Richmond, and remains home to the RAAF’s transport headquarters, Air Mobility Group. Its origins began with Parramatta dentist William Hart in 1912, who took off in his selfmade monoplane from a patch of land in the Hawkesbury known as Ham Common.

An early aviation enthusiast, Hart’s flights thrilled the largely rural communities of Richmond and Windsor, but even he couldn’t have imagined the aviation legacy to follow. In September 1912, a serious flying accident hospitalised William Hart and curbed his flying days in the Hawkesbury, however his efforts had sparked the imagination of others. The outbreak of war in Europe in 1914 led to the establishment of a State Governmentsponsored school in 1916. Graduates from the Flying School would either join the Australian Flying Corps at Point Cook in Melbourne, or be shipped to the Royal Flying Corps in Europe

On and off the base there are plenty of services and groups to help families settle into their new home. In this section, you’ll find information on local services and amenities, such as local councils, public transport, emergency services, hospitals, swimming pools and recreation facilities, libraries and major shopping hubs. There’s also information on finding a home, whether it’s a service residence, private rental or buying a property. Plus, there’s a guide to the health care and support on offer for ADF members and their families, and other Defence support available.

From childcare and early learning to primary and high school, there’s a lot to be considered when you’re moving with children. This section offers tips and advice on choosing the best type of early learning to suit to your needs. It explains how primary and high schools function locally, how to go about finding a new school and offers idea to help support students through the challenges of starting or changing school. There’s also a guide to the childcare and education support on offer through Defence Member and Family Services.

TIME OUT

From history and culture to nature and adventure, there's plenty to keep you busy around Richmond and Glenbrook.

 Once you’ve settled into life on your new base and local community, it’s time to get out and explore the region. Whether you’re looking for adventure, arts, entertainment, dining out, local history or simply want to get back to nature, this section has plenty to whet your appetite.

For further inspiration, maps, attractions and road trips or weekend getaway ideas, check out the local visitors’ centre links. There is so much to see and do.