RAAF Base Nabiac

Military demobilization and redundancy. RAAF Base Nabiac was built as a temporary satellite and dispersal airfield during World War II. With the end of the war and the subsequent reduction in military forces and operations, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) disposed of numerous temporary facilities that were no longer strategically necessary.

The site of the former airfield is now completely encompassed by the Nabiac State Forest. The original three runways are heavily overgrown with mature trees and dense vegetation, but their distinct triangular pattern is still clearly visible from satellite imagery. There are no remaining buildings, hangars, or aviation infrastructure. The land is currently managed by the Forestry Corporation of NSW and is used for forestry operations and public recreation, such as trail biking and four-wheel driving.

RAAF Base Nabiac was a significant satellite airfield for the main RAAF Base Williamtown during World War II. Constructed in 1942 by the Allied Works Council, its primary role was to support advanced aircrew training and to act as a dispersal field to protect aircraft from a potential enemy attack on the main base. It was heavily used by No. 4 Operational Training Unit (4 OTU) for training on aircraft such as the Vultee Vengeance dive bomber, Bristol Beaufighter, and later the de Havilland Mosquito. The base featured a classic WWII-era triangular layout with three sealed runways and was a key part of the air defense and training infrastructure for Australia's east coast during the conflict.

There are no known or credible plans or prospects for reopening the airfield. The site has been reclaimed by forest for over 75 years, and the cost to clear the land and rebuild modern aviation infrastructure would be prohibitive. Its original strategic purpose is obsolete, and the regional aviation needs are met by nearby active airports like Taree Airport (YTRE).