Leigh Costain passed away on Monday 12 January 2026 at 75 years of age after a relatively short illness. He is survived by his wife of 55+ years, Annette, his daughter Leeanne and son Damien, their partners Jason and Fiona, his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Leigh joined as a MOBI from Tasmania aged 16 in Jan 1967 and graduated in Jun 1970. He graduated with his “Wings” on 81 pilots course in Jun 1972. Had an almost continuous aviation career through to Transfer to Reserves in Jan 1994 and then to final resignation in Mar 17. He also achieved his Fleet Bridge Watch-keeping Certificate and Naval Staff Course Advanced Diploma; and was cleared for patrol boat and air squadron command.

He had operational service in Op Desert Shield and was XO HS 816 Squadron on commissioning in Jul 92. He flew over 8500 hours across 9 different aircraft/helicopter types. Leigh also did exchange instructional service with RN’s 705 Squadron at the same time Prince Andrew was under helicopter training. He was heavily involved in the interim Bell 206/AS 350 Detachments in FFGs and the first S-70B-2 Seahawk Flights in FFG/FFHs. He served in 724, 723, 816 and 817 Squadrons.

Leigh’s 50 years’ service was recognised with the ASM with Kuwait Clasp, DLSM with 6 Clasps, ADM, National Medal, ACT Emergency Services Medal with 2003 Clasp, and a CN Commendation.

His funeral was conducted in Nowra on Wednesday 21 January at St Michael’s Church after which Leigh was buried in the Naval Section at the Nowra Cemetery.