RAAF Base Tindal
Katherine, Northern Territory
The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Tindal is 15kms outside Katherine and 320kms by road south-east of Darwin in the Northern Territory. Although the airfield was constructed in 1942, it is the Air Force's youngest operational base (excepting bare bases) and one of Australia's most important defence installations.
Originally known as Carson's Airfield during World War II, over the years it has been upgraded and extended for commercial use. In 1984, the government decided to establish an operational Air Force base at Tindal. The physical security it enjoys is due to its long distance from the coast, making it unlikely it will be swept away by a cyclone. Tindal officially opened on 1 October 1988 and is now the home of:
The Army's North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE) also has a detachment on the base.
RAAF Base Tindal is very much part of the Katherine community. Our personnel (including our families) make up almost 25% of Katherine's population of 10,000 people. RAAF Base Tindal's contribution to the local community includes such things as flood relief, Defence aid to the civil community and the use of some of the base sporting facilities. Tindal personnel have always shown a keen interest in supporting local sports, and they account for a large number of administrators and competitors. The people of Katherine are also extremely supportive of the base and its personnel and the close relationship is a feature of a posting to Tindal.
Public access
Public access to RAAF Bases is not permitted. All visitors must be signed in and wear their visitor's pass at all times. Please contact the security guards for further information.
Tindal Moonlit Cinema
The Tindal Moonlit Cinema is located approx 400 metres inside the RAAF Base Tindal main gate, across the road from the Clothing Store. The cinema operates during the dry season (roughly April - November) with movies screened Friday and Saturday nights commencing at 7:30pm. Program information can be obtained by phoning 08 897 37987 .
Contact
RAAF Base Tindal
Katherine NT 0853
Call 1300 DEFENCE and ask for Tindal Air Force Base.
Call +61 2 6265 9111 for international callers.
