WGCDR
O’Donnell is the current Commanding Officer of 76 Squadron, RAAF Base
Williamtown. 76 Squadron is responsible for the conduct of introductory fighter
training for all RAAF fighter aircrew prior to their conversions onto the
F/A-18F, E/F-18G or F-35A. The Squadron also conducts adversary support for
units across the ADF.
WGCDR
O’Donnell joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1989. Since then he has
accumulated over 6 000hrs flying time with tours on F-111, Hawk, Macchi, and
PC9 aircraft. He also flew the GR-4 Tornado while on exchange with the RAF
which included several tours during the Iraq conflict (Operation Iraqi Freedom
in US parlance).
In his
current role as Commanding Officer of 76 Squadron, WGCDR O’Donnell has overseen
the transition to the upgraded Hawk 127 aircraft as a lead-in fighter platform.
This transition was multi-facetted including an increased use of simulation,
multiple new technologies enabling better learning outcomes and a high focus on
individual performance.
In January
2020, WGCDR O’Donnell is posted to a second command, that of the Central Flying
School. CFS is responsible for all instructor training and standardisation
within the RAAF.
WGCDR O’Donnell is married to Gill;
together they have two children, Ben and Hannah. His interests include all
things technology, mountain biking and enjoying good food.
Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Wing Commander Neville.
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