Lauthala Bay, Suva Fiji

[perthkiwi]

My Dad transferred from the RAF to RNZAF and was based in Suva 1958 to about 1964. He was involved in the radio side of things for the flying boats.
Has anyone got information on what the squadron was or any contacts.
Dad was Claude Chambers.
Another Kiwi I know of Frank Stace was there at this time too.
I am about to head back to Fiji for a look around, but sadly I understand the RNZAF base is now home to the University of the South Pacific so a lot of the old landmarks will be gone.
Any information will be gratefully received.

[sunderlandmr5]

Hi, welcome to the Forums

My own father served with 5 Squadron in the early 1960's at Lauthala Bay.
He was on the electrical side of things for the Sunderlands

Yes, you're right, the base did become a University, the main hangar survived
for quite some time, until termites rendered it useless, so was torn down.
(late 1990's -I think from memory)


The breakwater is still there- not sure how much of the rest of the base still exists


For contacts, I would suggest contacting the good folks from the 5 Squadron Association
http://www.5sqnassn.org.nz/

Hope that helps you

Regards

Alan

[perthkiwi]

Hi Alan
thanks for the response.
Was 5 Squadron the only RNZAF squadron there?
I will endeavour to get some photos when i am there in March and put them up if they are worthwhile.
cheerio

Trish

[sunderlandmr5]

Hi Trish

In 1958 when your father was stationed at Lauthala Bay, 5 Squadron (to my knowledge)
was the only RNZAF Squadron there in Fiji.

In 1957, 6 Squadron who had been there, had been disbanded and 5 Squadron took over the
Sunderlands and remained at Lauthala Bay till 1967.

Have fun on your trip.

Regards

Alan

[perthkiwi]

I have photos of Lauthala Bay, can email to anyone interested.
Trish

[sunderlandmr5]

I have photos of Lauthala Bay, can email to anyone interested.
Trish

Hi Trish

Hope you had a great time - Photo's? Yes Please!

Thanks

Alan