Riverfire 2025
Article by Caelan McDougall
Images by Caelan McDougall
The skies once again came alive this year for the 27th annual Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust, with the Royal Australian Air Force delivering an aerial display that aviation enthusiasts won’t forget. Brisbane’s skyline provided the perfect backdrop as a trio of frontline aircraft conducted multiple flypasts along the river, giving the crowd a close look at some of the RAAF’s most recognisable platforms.
Leading the charge was the C-17A Globemaster III from No. 36 Squadron, based at Amberley. The heavy-lift transport aircraft is a familiar sight over Brisbane, but its sheer size never fails to impress. The Globemaster’s broad wingspan and four Pratt & Whitney turbofans were impossible to miss as it passed low over the city, highlighting the strategic airlift capability it provides to the RAAF.
Following for its debut appearance at Riverfire was the C-27J Spartan of No. 35 Squadron, often described as the “battlefield airlifter.” Smaller and more compact than the Globemaster, the Spartan’s flypasts highlighted its role in providing tactical airlift where larger transports cannot operate. The aircraft’s distinctive profile and twin turboprop engines were easily recognisable as it tracked along the river, giving spectators a close-up view of a type not often seen at public events.
Closing the display was the E/A-18G Growler, flown by No. 6 Squadron. With its twin afterburning GE F414 engines, the Growler brought both speed and sound to the Brisbane CBD. One of only a handful of electronic attack aircraft in service worldwide, its appearance was a rare opportunity for the public to see an aircraft critical to modern operations. Its fast flypasts provided a fitting crescendo to the aerial component of Riverfire.
Together, the three aircraft offered Brisbane’s aviation community and wider public a chance to see the diversity of the RAAF fleet in action. Once the flypasts concluded, the focus shifted to the fireworks. For many, the presence of the RAAF overhead was the highlight of Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust 2025.
