AVIATION enthusiasts believe the sky’s the limit after the first local aircraft flying lessons on Saturday.
The recently incorporated Cohuna Aviation Club has announced a new strategic partnership for a Deniliquin-based flying school to provide pilot training at the local aerodrome.
Three local trainee pilots who have each completed over five hours’ training at Deniliquin will now be able to have lessons locally every fortnight following approval for Wettenhall Flight Training Services to operate at Cohuna.
Cohuna Aviation Club chairman, Andrew Gibbs, who is also a trainee pilot, said that the partnership now opens up so many opportunities for all age groups to learn to fly within Gannawarra.
“There has been a reduction in pilot training services at various airports around our region, mainly due to the retiring age of the instructors and fewer instructors taking up the baton,” he said.
The Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, who has joined the club’s board, witnessed the first lessons to be held at Cohuna.
“This is a fantastic reflection on what the board has been able to do in ensuring that aviation training services are available within a convenient distance in our electorate,” he said.
“The fact that three students have started their pilot training on day one is testament to that. I would encourage all those interested, young or mature, to make contact with the club and give it a go.”
Flight training instructor, Nigel Wettenhall has been involved in aviation for decades, operating a large charter and training operation with bases at Deniliquin and Broken Hill, including aero-medical flights and jet prop services with the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Captain Wettenhall said that the Piperstrel Alpha Trainer aircraft is safe and reliable and is fitted with a ballistic-propelled emergency parachute.
“The support from the Cohuna Aviation Club has been terrific,” he said.
• Anyone interested in joining the flying school should contact Andrew Gibbs on 03 5456 4760 or gibbscomm@bigpond.com
