Applications opened on 1 June for the annual Roger Connellan Award, which supports aviation development in Outback Australia.
The award is open to professional and non-professional pilots who have completed their initial CASA-recognised licensing such as PPL or CPL in fixed wing, rotary, RPAS etc., and includes pilots that operate under an approved body such as Recreational Aviation Australian (RA-Aus) and Gliding Federation of Australia (GFA).
It offers up to $20,000 for skill development, further qualification or professional development programs in a recognised aviation field to pilots to further develop their flying skills after initial licensing.
The award aims to promote pilots working in remote parts of Australia, particularly those who may not have access to the development and supervision offered in a commercial environment to further develop their skills after gaining their initial licence.
The award was established in 2016 by the Connellan family in memory of Eddie Connellan’s son Roger. Roger was a bush pilot who became Chief Check and Training Captain of Connair when they employed 120 commercial pilots. He also helped establish the Alice Springs Aero Club in 1964.
To find out more about the award and to download an application form go to the Connellan Airways Trust Website. Applications close on 15 July.
Fabulous idea and great incentive to promote aviation and safety in remote areas and a great way to remember a pioneering aviation figurehead.
Great idea. Read the book on the story of Eddies Aviation pioneering life.
Truly inspirational.
Be interesting to see who gets awarded this as there are multiple conditions and expectations. Good luck!