Special Laucala Bay connection for Leading Aircraftman
A ceremony commemorating №5 Squadron’s involvement at Fiji’s Laucala Bay was particularly poignant for Leading Aircraftman (LAC) Shirley Barakuta, who has a family tie to the base.
Born and raised in Lautoka, Fiji, LAC Barakuta moved with her family to New Zealand 11 years ago. She was chosen by the Warrant Officer of the Air Force to attend the Laucala Bay ceremony, which was dedicated to the RNZAF personnel who were based there over a 26-year period.
“Words can’t even describe what it meant to be able to go over there. I felt so proud and going back to see my family members see me in uniform — really, really made me happy. I’m so glad I managed to get on this trip,” she said.
The ceremony, in which a monument was unveiled, also held a special meaning for LAC Barakuta. Her uncle, Ian Cattermole, was an armourer with №5 Squadron. He met her aunt while based there, they fell in love and married.
Another of LAC Barakuta’s uncles served with some of the Laucala Bay veterans, however he was not involved with the ceremony.
“I was chosen as a junior rank person to help out with veterans and help with the event,” she said.
“I was the wreath-bearer during the ceremony and also raised the Fiji flag. It was my first time doing it — I was so nervous, but I felt so privileged to be able to do it.
“I just loved listening to the veterans’ stories and see their connection to the Air Force as well as my island home.”
Back at Base Auckland, LAC Barakuta is a supplier in the support section.
“We supply the parts for the aircraft and are the inventory managers. It’s fun telling my family I work in №5 Squadron now.
“I joined up in 2015 and I was steered towards supplier because of my educational background. I’ve been in the logistics trade for nearly four years and I haven’t looked back. I’ve always seen myself in the aviation industry and I’ve always wanted to join the Air Force and it was lucky I managed to get through.”
