Most interesting read indeed. Back a little earlier than the 80's, Ozzie or SAATAS were the top end fixtures to be see at. TOV, SAO, DVY, AON (Barron, Navaho, C-337 and G.m's C-182) all shiney and new (not) . Great flying, interupted only by the odd sacking and the shiney QANTAS cadet's, who would arrive un-anounced do it all for "the experience" before they 'P....d o.f" to fly the 707's. Wouldn't have missed it for quids....
The xmas hangar piss ups were monumental in the week leading to the same event. They would lock you up and throw the key away today!!
Regards...
Puff of smoke!!!!!