Australia’s Department of Defence is investigating photographs and video footage circulating online that appear to show the Wagga Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base in an unhygienic and dismal condition.
Footage, reportedly shot at Wagga RAAF base, showing a “mouse with mange” in the mess hall and photographs of cockroaches and maggots crawling around food allegedly being served in the base were published on the Instagram account of an Australian veteran community organization.
The account, called ‘The Pineapple Express’, said that the photos and videos were submitted to its inbox by followers.
“For over 2 years now there has been a battle between uniformed members and the management of the mess to improve the food quality, portion size and hygiene of the area. Basically the only thing about the mess that doesn’t need improvement is the friendliness of the staff who have nothing to do with those processes anyway,” the caption said.
A spokesperson from the Department of Defence told local news outlet Daily Advertiser that the department is aware of the social media post.
“Defence takes the welfare of its personnel very seriously and is looking into this matter to ensure Workplace Health and Safety requirements are met and any concerns are addressed,” the spokesperson said.