Interview with 104 year old veteran Bruce Robertson – ANZAC Day 2024 – RAAF Richmond
Channel: Councillor Nathan Zamprogno
Date: 24/04/2024

It was a rare privilege to sit and record the memories of Bruce Robertson earlier this week with Kathryn Gene from Pulse 89.9FM Radio.
It’s hard to encapsulate just how much Bruce's extraordinary 104 year life has taken in. 

He shook Charles Kingsford-Smith’s hand and chatted with his crew after Kingsford-Smith led the first trans-Pacific air crossing in 1928 in the "Southern Cross".

He trained with 30 Squadron, right here in the Hawkesbury at RAAF Base Richmond.

As a wireless operator, he was the first to detect the Japanese Morse Code signals of the mothership submarine off Sydney Heads as it launched two midget submarines into Sydney Harbour in May 1942.

Via Townsville, he deployed to New Guinea and was present at the battles of Kokoda and the Bismarck Sea, relaying vital intelligence of the battles as they unfolded.

Bruce is literally older than the Air Force he joined –– which is a timely reminder that the centenary of our own RAAF Richmond base is next year and deserves an open day and an air show.

Recording and editing this has been a true thrill, and both Bruce’s remarkable memories and his wisdom for young people today (towards the end of the video) make for the best ANZAC day treat I can offer you.

Many thanks to Kathryn and to the staff of RAAF Richmond and to the Sergeant’s Mess who offered their hospitality.