Busy July for the Hunter Hornet Squad
This past July has been massive for the Southern Cross Garrison's Hunter Hornets Squad, with six events keeping troopers busy, including a road trip to Coffs Harbour for Nexus Con.
Winter Heat
Kick starting the month on July 1, Winter Heat was an exciting way to brave the cold in Newcastle's Honeysuckle foreshore by enjoying some street food, music, rides and entertainment. Commencing from Star Wars themed cafe The Empire Coffee Co, troopers stopped for countless photos and high-fives from fans, young and "grown up" alike.
Photo credit: Sarah Hillier
Vacation Care
The children of YWCA Cooks Hill were surprised July 4 to be visited by an Imperial Stormtrooper during their special school holidays Star Wars day celebration.
"I just wanted to say a massive thank you!!! A fabulous stormtrooper turned up yesterday, the kids absolutely loved it! He hung around for a while & we got some great photos. We were so surprised and it just added that extra kick to our star wars themed day. Once again, thank you so much, you guys do a fabulous job!!" - Natalie Smith, YWCA
Brickfest
Seven of our troopers were joined by a Rebel Legion representative on July 9 for a fun day of Lego at Brickfest. Newcastle Jockey Club was bustling with activity with children of all ages enjoying the various Lego exhibits.
Photo credit: John Elliott
The Lego displays were outstanding, paying homage to Newcastle’s port with a working coal loader filling a tanker. There were several Star Wars displays, some recreating famous battles while others showcased the impressive range of Lego vehicles and a certain sorely-missed space station.
Maitland Cosmic Cosplay
July 15 had the Hunter Hornets joining forces with several Superheroes at Maitland Library for a morning of Cosplay fun. The Imperials were greeted by kids dressed as their favourite comic book and Star Wars characters who excitedly gathered for photos and the odd fist-bump.
The troopers took a stroll through the Levee, much to the amazement of shoppers and store owners.
Photo credit: Maitland City Library
The Cosmic Cosplay event was a great hit with the community with several members of the public expressing an interest in joining our ranks.
Life Project Cambodia
The Hornets, joined by troopers from Canberra and Sydney, were honoured to participate in the fundraising activities for Life Project Cambodia on July 22. All money raised goes directly to support student education in Cambodia where the organisation's efforts are already being rewarded with two nursing graduates planning on giving back to their local community with free medical aid.
Photo credit: Glen Fredericks
The troopers and volunteers raised $550 from the day's efforts.
Nexus Con
Wrapping up the month's activities, the Squad rendezvoused with northern NSW troopers and Lord Vader for Nexus Con 2017 in Coffs Harbour.
Photo credit: Ben Gordon
The group had the pleasure of speaking with numerous pop culture fans and posed for countless photos.
The troopers couldn't leave Coffs Harbour without the obligatory photo in front of the Big Banana.
Photo credit: Big Banana Fun Park
The Hunter Hornets and the Garrison as-a-whole are looking forward to staying busy for the remainder of the year, with many upcoming events planned as we approach the release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi in December.