Choppers in a league of t

IT HAS been almost four years since the iconic Blackhawks helicopters left the skies of Townsville but their legacy and connection with the city lives on.

Once part of a fleet of 20, the last six of the iconic helicopters did a final farewell flight around the city and along The Strand in August 2014 before they left to a new posting with the 6th Aviation Regiment in Sydney.

But within months their name was back in the headlines as the inspiration for the Townsville- based Queensland Rugby League team.

The Townsville Blackhawks were named in recognition of the strong defence force links to the city and the 25- year presence of the distinctive helicopter, which was often seen flying in the city’s skies.

The name was chosen in a 2012 “name the team” competition by Townsville resident and local firefighter Matthew Cocker.

For this year’s team photo the Blackhawks players gathered at 5th Aviation Regiment at RAAF Base Townsville last week to have their photo taken with person in front of the next generation Army helicopters – the MRH Taipans.

Commanding Officer of the Aviation Regiment Lieuten Colonel Kim Gilfillan said team and his unit both shared tory and the strong values “teamwork, courage and respec

“We get great support from Townsville community and partnership between the Bla hawks and the 5th Aviation R ment is a great way for us maintain that relationship,” said.