Tickets for behind-the-scenes tours of Sydney Airport and Royal Australian Navy warship now available

Sunday 22 September, SYDNEY: Super charity NSW Kids in Need is hosting its fifth annual Open Day event giving a rare glimpse inside some of Sydney’s most unique places.

The Open Day on Sunday, 22 September will raise much-needed funds to support the vital work of six child-focussed charities by offering exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to Sydney Airport and naval base Garden Island.

The tour at Sydney Airport offers guests direct access to the world of aviation. The 90-minute journey will take ticket holders on the airfield, showcasing the runways, the airport’s three terminals and many of the unique and interesting parts of the airport precinct that passengers never get to see.

General Manager Corporate Affairs Sally Fielke said that Sydney Airport is proud to partner with NSW Kids in Need.

“The Open Day event series is a great initiative that supports NSW Kids in Need to assist children who need it most, while giving the community an exciting opportunity to go behind-the-scenes of Australia’s busiest airport,” Ms Fielke said.

“Sydney Airport celebrates its centenary this year and we’re thrilled to share our rich history as part of this unique event.”

At Garden Island the Royal Australian Navy will open the gates for guests to explore HMAS Melbourne*, a 4267-tonne guided missile frigate capable of surface and undersea warfare, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Ship tours will be complemented by land-based displays by the specialist Navy Clearance Diving Team and Australian Army.

HMAS Melbourne Commanding Officer Marcus Buttler said the open day offers an incredible chance for civilians to access Garden Island and explore the last commissioned Adelaide class guided missile frigate in the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet.

“On a special hour-long guided tour, guests will get a glimpse of HMAS Melbourne’s sophisticated command and control systems, weapons and helicopter operational ability.

“The ship’s motto, ‘She Gathers Strength As She Goes’, is particularly apt for the fantastic work of the six charities supported by NSW Kids in Need. We’re delighted to include this open day in the ship’s activities before she is decommissioned in October after more than 28 years of service.”

NSW Kids in Need Chairman Peter Debnam said he continues to be humbled by the enthusiasm of all partners involved in the event, which over the past five years has raised more than $600,000.

“We are all passionate about making a difference in the lives of the many children who face daily challenges and to be able to assist these amazing charities is a great privilege.

“Without the help of Sydney Airport and the Royal Australian Navy giving us access to these two unique experiences, we would not be able to help in such an impactful way.”

“We’re looking forward to another fantastic day and thank our champion supporter 2GB for helping us spread the word. Tickets to both Sydney Airport and Garden Island are strictly limited, so don’t delay.”

NSW Kids in Need

NSW Kids in Need supports the vital work of child-focussed charities including:

• Bear Cottage Children’s Hospice;
• The Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead;
• Central Coast Kids in Need;
• Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia;
• Muscular Dystrophy NSW; and
• SHINE for Kids

Sydney Airport Airside Adventure

Sunday, 22 September 2019
9.30am – 11am
90-minute tour
100 tickets available

An exciting event hosted by Sydney Airport, guests will be shown around the international and domestic precincts, as well as the main runway. From the airfield, guests will see a hub of activity including taxiing, departing and arriving aircraft, showcasing the inner workings of the airport.

Unlike any other experience, guests will gain an insight into how an airport operates in this unique behind-the-scenes tour.

The one-and-a-half-hour tour offers an exclusive opportunity to witness the excitement of Australia’s gateway, which welcomes more than 44 million passengers each year.

Purchase tickets here Sydney Airport Airside Adventure Tickets

The Royal Australian Navy Tour

Sunday, 22 September 2019
10am – 3pm
60-minute tour

The Royal Australian Navy will open the gates to Garden Island for guests to explore HMAS Melbourne*, one of the extraordinary ships in the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet.

The Australian Army will also be on site with displays on board the ship, including trucks and bushmasters. Army and Navy personnel will be available to answer questions about the important role they play in the Australian Defence Forces.

NSW Kids in Need requests a donation of $10.00 per person over the age of six years old, however additional donations are discretionary. Due to the popularity of this tour, bookings are capped at six people per group booking.

Book tickets here Royal Australian Navy Tour Tickets

Donations

Donations can also be made at www.nswkidsinneed.org.au

For further information, please contact:

Hayley Kardash Left Field Communications 0405 722 648 hayley@leftfield.com.au

Michelle Bowers Left Field Communications 0415 098 485 michelle@leftfield.com.au