Darwin-Australia – The highly anticipated Pitch Black 2024 exercise officially commenced today with an opening ceremony held at the Darwin Convention Centre. The event was attended by participants from the 20 participating countries, including the Philippines’ very own Philippine Air Force, which sent 162 highly trained personnel of various expertise, headed by the Contingent Commander, Col Randy M Pascua PAF (GSC).
The ceremony began with a traditional smoking ceremony, an important cultural practice of the Aboriginal people. This ancient ritual is performed to cleanse the area, ward off bad spirits, and bring about positive energy and well-being for all participants. The smoking ceremony set a respectful and auspicious tone for the proceedings.
Following the smoking ceremony, Aunty Mary Williams from Larrakia Nation, officiated the Welcome to Country, acknowledging the traditional owners of the land and paying respects to their Elders past and present.
The Hon Eva Lawler, MP, Chief Minister for the Northern Territory, then delivered her address. She highlighted the significance of the exercise, stating, “Your presence here today signifies a collective resolve to work to maintain peace, stability, and security both at home and abroad.”
The official opening of the exercise was conducted by His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie AO PSM, Administrator of the Northern Territory. He stressed the importance of Pitch Black 2024, calling it “a wonderful event to enjoy time with colleagues, and make new friends from around the world, to celebrate and strengthen our defense relationships throughout air forces.”
The opening address was given by Air Commodore Peter Robinson, Officer Commanding the Exercise, who emphasized the goals and significance of Pitch Black 2024.
Distinguished guests, military personnel, and representatives from all participating nations gathered to celebrate the spirit of cooperation and shared commitment to regional security and collaboration.
Pitch Black 2024 promises to be a comprehensive and intensive exercise, fostering interoperability and enhancing the capabilities of the participating air forces.
