Fast jet operations at Evans Head Air Weapons Range

The Royal Australian Air Force has outlined planned operations at Evans Head Air Weapons Range (EVDAWR) over the period March to June 2025. 

EVDAWR is located south of Evans Head township on the north coast of New South Wales. 

Military fast jet aircraft from RAAF Base Williamtown and RAAF Base Amberley have programmed training at EVDAWR commencing on 25th March.

• F-35A Lightning II aircraft from Number 2 Operational Conversion Unit at RAAF Base Williamtown are scheduled to operate on the range during the periods
  • 25-26 March 2025
  • 1-2 April 2025
  • 16-21 of June 2025
• F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft from Number 1 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley are scheduled to operate on the range during the periods
  • 12-16 May 2025
  • 28-30 May 2025
  • 2-6 of June 2025
• EA-18G Growler aircraft from Number 6 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley are scheduled to operate on the range during the periods 
  • 16-21 June 2025
  • 23-27 June 2025

The training is currently planned to occur on weekdays during daylight hours however residents should be aware that changes may occur at short notice due to weather or other operational considerations.

Training activities will normally involve two waves per day of application pattern and live gunnery. The training may also include the use of lasers.

Evans Head Air Weapons Range is a suitable gunnery and bombing practice area for aircrew completing initial and currency weapon training on the F-35A Lightning II, F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft.

EVDAWR covers both land and overwater areas. The public are reminded that access to the range land areas remains restricted at all times – not just when flying activities are occurring. This restriction is a safety measure due to the historical use of the range leading to the possibility of unexploded ordnance remaining at the site.

The overwater area will be closed from 10am to 5pm during all operations except where specifically indicated.

Defence personnel display red flags to indicate live firing activities and conduct patrols for public safety. 

The Evans Head Air Weapons Range Community Advisory Panel has been advised of these activities.

Air Force appreciates the long standing support from the local community.

For further information please refer to the Air Force Operations website on https://www.airforce.gov.au/operations/flying-operations/flying-activity. A copy of the overwater DPA map and GPS co-ordinates please refer to the Defence website at Frequent flying schedules | Air Force. 

For more information, visit the Defence Aircraft Noise website or call 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).