RAAF Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Sikorsky S-76A VH-HRP "Choppa 8" Back at Mackay and Gladstone Airports

On Friday 9 December, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Search and Rescue (CHC Helicopters) Sikorsky S-76A VH-HRP returned South from Townsville to RAAF Base Amberley via Mackay and Gladstone Airports.  It had flown North in mid-November (as shown) and like this previous journey, VH-HRP was heard to be using the radio callsign of "Choppa 8".

VH-HRP "Choppa 8" at Gladstone Airport in November  (File photo)

VH-HRP "Choppa 8" has been in Townsville where it participated in the RAAF's Exercise High Sierra 16-2 - the final training exercise for pilots graduating from Number 2 Operational Conversion Unit. No. 2OCU Squadron which operates out of RAAF Base Williamtown.  The Exercise took place around Townsville throughout November and into December with the participating RAAF McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet and Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter aircraft returning home to their respective bases earlier in the week.

Photo taken by 'Mick'  ©