Black Panthers (1961-1965)
In august 1956 is formed Meteorites aerobatic team flying on three Gloster Meteor F8 from No. 78 (Fighter) Wing based at Williamtown, N.S.W. The team performs its first display in September at Williamtown Air Force Week. The Meteorites pilots was - leader F.Lt. J.H Flemming, No.2 F.Sgt. F.P. Riley, No.3 F.Sgt O.R.F. Bartrop. After 23 displays in february 1957 the team is disbanded, when the Sabres replacing Meteors and the leader Jim Flemming is posted to Central Flying School as a jet instructor.
In 1961 were formed the Black Diamonds flying on 4 CA-27 Mk.32 Sabre aircraft, manufactured by Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation in Victoria, Australia. This team from 75th squadron exists till 1964 when the 75th squadron begins to fly with Mirage 3. The team uses the planes with serials A94-3xx, except when in 1963 a A94-352 went in for a major serviceing and replaced with a 900 series aircrat, A94-970, which flew until the Squadron transition to the new Mirage.
Restored RAAF aircraft painted in Black Diamonds colours for historic and display purposes.
Photos from ex-Black Diamonds pilot Roger Lowery
Photos from Meteorites leader Jim Flemming
Airmacchi MB-326 is used from the Telstars just in last two months.
These four photos shows Telstars Vampire in flypast formations with other RAAF planes.
Thanks to Wal Nelowkin for a help to increase this page