de Havilland Vampire T Mk 35 A79-636
First flying in February 1959, A79-636 entered service with No 2 Operational Conversion Unit to convert pilots to the Sabre fighter. In August 1962, the aircraft was transferred to the Central Flying School at East Sale and was used to train instructor pilots. In January 1968, the aircraft was allotted to No 1 Advanced Flying Training School at RAAF Base Pearce, Western Australia.
In December 1969, the aircraft was retired with 1785 airframe hours, and was allocated to the RAAF Museum in June 1970. In 1980, A79-636 was moved to No 21 (City of Melbourne) Squadron, for restoration to flying condition, and in 1988, the restoration was completed, and the aircraft was displayed as part of the RAAF’s Historic Flight.
Following the 1997 Avalon Airshow, A79-636 was grounded as it was approaching its design fatigue life, and was stored at Point Cook. The aircraft has subsequently been taxied occasionally and has been on display at Air Pageants held at Point Cook.
History of Vampire F Mk 30 A79-375 (Tech Hangar)
History of Vampire T Mk 35 A79-616 (Training Hangar)