The Evans Head Air Weapons Range was designated as a bombing, air gunnery and rocket firing range on 13 July 1949. Since its establishment, the range has been used consistently as a primary training area for military aircraft. RAAF Base Amberley is responsible for the Evans Head Air Weapons Range.
For safety reasons, the Southern Defence Practice Area (overwater) is closed to the community from 10am to 5pm during all operations, except where specifically indicated. The range (land areas) remains restricted access regardless of any activities being conducted.
Precise dates and times are determined according to training objectives, and operations can change due to weather, air traffic control requirements and other aviation or operational considerations.
Training involves up to 2 waves of activity per day, including live strafing and bombing practice involving lasers and low-level flying.
The Evans Head Air Weapons Range Community Advisory Panel meeting have been held since 2013 to allow Defence to consult with panel members regarding the range use schedule whilst accommodating community use of the area.
Evans Head Air Weapons Range Training Program
Military fast jet scheduled training operations at Evans Head Air Weapons Range from March to June include:
- 25-26 March – F-35A Lightning II
- 1-2 April - F-35A Lightning II
- 12-16 May – F/A 18F Super Hornet
- 28-30 May - F/A 18F Super Hornet
- 2-6 June - F/A 18F Super Hornet
- 16-21 June – EA-18G Growler/ F-35A Lightning II
- 23-27 June - EA-18G Growler
All day operations will be conducted between the hours of 10am – 5pm.
Please note: The schedule can change due to weather, or operational considerations.
Thanks to the Evans Head community for their ongoing support of this important military training.