You will hear their voices throughout the Airshow weekend, but let us put a face to their dynamic narration. Meet the commentators that will guide you through the Airshows Downunder Shellharbour flying displays with their knowledge and expertise.
Peter ‘Ando’ Anderson
The Experienced One
How many years have you been part of Airshows Downunder Shellharbour (previously known as Wings Over Illawarra)?
Since the beginning when it was operated by HARS
Favourite Airshow Moment?
Difficult to say, but at Shellharbour, I love the family feel of the event that has been embraced by everyone in the region. It attracts people from all over and I know many who are regulars from as far afield as New Zealand.
Other Experience?
I commentate at numerous airshows overseas including Flying Legends Duxford, Old Sarum Air Festival and Midlands Air Festivals at Ragley Hall and Arbury Hall for the last six years, all of which are in UK.
I have also done Warbirds over Wanaka and Wings over Wairarapa in New Zealand and undertake commentary for the RAAF at the non-Avalon shows (for approx. 25 years now), the RAN for their shows at HMAS Albatross and at major and minor regional airshows throughout Australia.
I have four coming up in March including a return trip to NZ and the UK in late May.
Daniel (Dan) Armstrong
The Newbie
With a career as a pilot in the Air Force for over a decade, Dan Armstrong brings a contemporary perspective and experience to the commentary team. Since gaining his pilot wings in 2013, he has been fortunate to fly a number of different aircraft including the C130 Hercules, PC21 as an instructor, Hawk Mk127 and the F35 Lightning. Dan was also the commentator for the RAAF Roulettes between 2018-19. He has a deep interest in aviation history, and is looking forward to working with Ando to inform and entertain the public at the airshow.
How many years have you been part of Airshows Downunder Shellharbour?
This is my first year working as part of the Airshows Downunder team but I have been to 3 previously with the RAAF.
What are you excited to see?
I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing the Kittyhawk, it’s a fighter with a lot of connection with Australia.
Favourite Airshow Moment?
Seeing the F-111 do one of its last displays at the 2010 Williamtown Airshow.
Other Experience?
I’ve been a RAAF pilot for over 10 years, have flown the C130 Hercules, commentated for the Roulettes, instructed on the PC21 and currently fly the F35. Outside of work I like doing as many adventurous activities as I can with my fiancé.