Inala honours the legacy of Warrant Officer Len Waters, Australia’s first Indigenous fighter pilot. His journey from a shearer to a celebrated aviator inspires the community.
Len Waters: Inala’s Trailblazing Aviator
Inala has a special connection to Warrant Officer Leonard Victor “Len” Waters, the country’s first and only Indigenous fighter pilot during World War II. Warrant Officer Waters was a proud Kamilaroi man who broke barriers in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Photo Credit: Indigenous Australia
From Shearer to Fighter Pilot
Warrant Officer Waters was born in 1924 on the Euraba Aboriginal Reserve near Boomi in New South Wales. He spent his early years growing up in Nindigully, Queensland. Leaving school at 14 to help support his family, he worked as a shearer. His education was limited, but his passion for aviation remained strong. Influenced by pioneering aviators like Charles Kingsford Smith and Bert Hinkler, he set his sights on the skies.
Photo Credit: Anzac Portal
In 1942, Warrant Officer Waters enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Initially, he trained as an aircraft mechanic; in 1944, he earned his wings and officially became a pilot. He was assigned to No. 78 Squadron, flying the P-40 Kittyhawk fighter “Black Magic.” For his nine-month service, he completed 95 missions, showcasing his dedication and skill as a pilot.
Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial
Post-War Life in Inala
After the war, Warrant Officer Waters faced challenges transitioning to civilian life. Due to financial difficulties, his dream of starting a regional airline never materialised. He returned to shearing but moved his family to Inala in 1956 due to the shearer’s strike. He secured housing commission accommodation, eventually buying a house and living in Inala for over three decades.
Photo Credit: Anzac Portal
The community commemorates Warrant Officer Waters through Len Waters Place, a park dedicated to his memory. His story continues to inspire, especially among Indigenous communities.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite his achievements, Warrant Officer Waters faced discrimination after the war. Though the RAAF valued his skills, civilian opportunities in aviation were limited. He remained proud of his service and stayed connected to the RAAF community.
Warrant Officer Waters passed away in 1993 after a fall in Cunnamulla. Comrades and community members attended his funeral in St George. His legacy lives on through memorials, including streets named in his honour at Ngunnawal, Canberra and Wacol, Brisbane.
Keeping the Memory Alive in Inala
As ANZAC Day comes on 25 April, the Inala community remembers the sacrifices of Indigenous service members like Warrant Officer Len Waters. Their contributions to Australia’s military history continue to inspire future generations.
Published 8-Apr-2025