RAAF Base Townsville’s Sergeant Tory Tipler of No.2 Security Forces Squadron has been awarded the annual Mayor’s award for the most outstanding Royal Australian Air Force member.

The purpose of the award is to publically recognise the contributions made by an Air Force member who has made the most outstanding contribution to the mission and goals of the Unit that they are posted to in Townsville.

At an event hosted by Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill on 9 September, Sergeant Tipler was chosen from amongst an extremely strong selection of nominees, all of whom have demonstrated the highest standard of conduct in the workplace.

Sergeant Tipler is from Yamba and was delighted to receive the award but also thrilled for being nominated in the first place.

“I’m very humbled to be recognised for this award. It gives me great satisfaction that the training and capability that weapon training section is providing is making a real difference.” Sergeant Tipler said.

Newly promoted Sergeant Tipler is the Acting Senior Non Commissioned Officer in charge of weapons training at RAAF Base Townsville. He is responsible for the organisation and control of all ground defence training at the Base and No.2 Security Forces Detachment.

In carrying out his duties Sergeant Tipler has displayed leadership and experience well above rank and has maintained training capability to the base despite resource and personnel impacts.

Flight Lieutenant Ryan Hopkins, Officer in Charge of the Townsville Security Detachment had no hesitation in nominating Sergeant Tipler.

“Sergeant Tipler conducts himself to the highest levels of professionalism, training, delivery, mentorship and leadership.

“His conduct is a credit to himself, the section, 2 SECFOR SQN and Air Force.”  Flight Lieutenant Ryan said.

Mayor Jenny Hill said Townsville was a proud garrison city which valued the contribution defence personnel and their families made to the local community while also ensuring the defence of our nation.

“Townsville City Council has a long-standing and close relationship with the Royal Australian Air Force.

“Council is proud to support the Royal Australian Air Force Mayor of Townsville Award which recognises the outstanding contribution to the mission and goals of recipients unit.” Mayor Hill said.

The annual award has been running for a decade and several previous recipients were amongst the audience to celebrate the efforts of Sergeant Tipler.