93-year-old RAAF serviceman Austin Asche relives life in Darwin, before and after the 1942 bombing.

More than 240 people were killed when Japanese aircraft attacked the Australian mainland for the first time during World War Two.

Mr Asche served in the airforce during World War II and later went on to become Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory.

He tells Chris Smith Darwin was very different before and after the bombing.

“I think I’m one of the very few people who actually knew Darwin before the bombing and after.

“The difference was quite amazing.”

He says ANZAC Day is critical to Australia’s identity.

“This is part of our being as Australians.

“You can’t be an Australian without a deep appreciation for what ANZAC day means.”

Click PLAY to hear his incredible story

The last surviving bombardier to have served during the Bombing of Darwin, 99-year-old Brian Winspear, spoke with Chris Smith.

Click PLAY to hear Mr Winspear’s fascinating recollection 

Chris visited the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia which provides an interactive virtual reality experience of the Bombing of Darwin.