Australian airshows have gotten complicated with all the conflicting information flying around online. As someone who’s tracked these events across the Asia-Pacific for years, I learned everything there is to know about what 2026 offers down under. Today, I will share it all with you.
While the massive Avalon International Airshow runs on odd-year cycles (returning in 2027), the 2026 calendar delivers excellent alternatives that showcase Australian aviation heritage and military capabilities.
2026 Australian Airshow Calendar at a Glance
| Event | Dates | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wings Over Shellharbour | May 15-17 | Shellharbour Airport, NSW | World-class aerobatics, RAAF demos |
| ANZAC Week Airshow, Sale | ANZAC Week | West Sale Airport, Victoria | Warbirds, military heritage |
| Warbirds Downunder, Temora | TBC 2026 | Temora Airport, NSW | Spitfires, Boomerang, WWII types |
| Barrington Coast Airshow | November 7 | Taree Regional Airport, NSW | Festival atmosphere, single-day event |
Major 2026 Events
Wings Over Shellharbour (May 15-17, 2026)
Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The newly rebranded Illawarra airshow launches its new era under Paul Bennet Airshows management. Located at Shellharbour Airport south of Sydney, this three-day event promises world-class aerobatics alongside RAAF demonstrations and warbird displays.
Paul Bennet Airshows brings extensive experience producing aviation events throughout Australia. Their involvement signals professional production values and performer rosters that will establish Wings Over Shellharbour as a major fixture on the Australian calendar.
Location: Shellharbour Airport, NSW
Website: paulbennetairshows.com.au
Warbirds Downunder, Temora (2026)
That’s what makes Temora endearing to us warbird enthusiasts—the intimate setting allows access unavailable at larger venues. The Temora Aviation Museum hosts periodic gatherings that draw aircraft and enthusiasts from across Australia. Their collection includes multiple Spitfires, a Boomerang, and various other WWII types that form the core of events celebrating Australian aviation heritage.
You’ll hear about restoration projects, see fabric-covered taildraggers parked next to immaculate warbirds, and probably buy something from the vendors you don’t need. For warbird enthusiasts, Temora represents essential pilgrimage.
Location: Temora Airport, NSW
Website: aviationmuseum.com.au
ANZAC Week Airshow, Sale (2026)
Commemorating Australia’s military heritage, the ANZAC Week Airshow at West Sale Airport in Gippsland, Victoria combines aviation displays with historical reflection. The Paul Bennet Airshows team delivers aerobatic and warbird performances within a context of remembrance.
Location: West Sale Airport, Victoria
Barrington Coast Airshow (November 7, 2026)
Returning to Taree Regional Airport in New South Wales, the Barrington Coast Airshow combines aviation thrills with festival atmosphere. The single-day format delivers concentrated entertainment accessible to regional audiences.
Location: Taree Regional Airport, NSW
What to Expect at Australian Airshows
RAAF Participation
Royal Australian Air Force demonstrations vary by event, but expect F/A-18 Hornet displays at major shows while the type remains in service. The RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team—flying PC-21 turboprop trainers—provide precision formation flying with distinctly Australian character.
Civilian Aerobatics
Australian aerobatic performers rank among the world’s best. Paul Bennet himself holds multiple Australian aerobatic championships, and his team’s presence at events guarantees world-class flying entertainment.
Warbird Heritage
Australia maintains impressive warbird collections despite distance from WWII production centers. Spitfires, Mustangs, Kittyhawks, and uniquely Australian types like the Boomerang and Wirraway appear at events throughout the country.
Planning Your Visit
Distances Matter
Australia’s scale challenges visitors accustomed to European or North American geography. Events that appear close on maps may require significant driving. Plan itineraries realistically and consider domestic flights for distant events.
Weather Considerations
Australian seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere. May events occur in autumn; November brings late spring. Conditions vary dramatically by region—research specific venue climates before traveling.
Looking Ahead to Avalon 2027
For visitors planning major trips to Australian aviation events, Avalon 2027 (March) represents the premier opportunity. The biennial Australian International Airshow at Avalon Airport near Geelong draws international military participation and industry presence unmatched elsewhere in the Southern Hemisphere.
Why Australian Airshows Matter
Australia’s aviation community maintains enthusiasm and heritage despite geographic isolation that limits international participation. The events that emerge from this environment reflect genuine passion rather than commercial calculation.
For international visitors, Australian airshows offer familiar aviation spectacle within unfamiliar landscapes and culture. The combination creates memories distinct from Northern Hemisphere events.
The 2026 Australian airshow season offers excellent opportunities despite Avalon’s absence. Plan around Wings Over Shellharbour or Temora for the most comprehensive experiences.
