Bill's day job is that of Managing Director and Senior Partner of Queensland's largest advertising agency, BCM Partnership.

Bill learned to fly in 1970 and has since gained qualifications in gliders, helicopters and fixed wing aircraft.

For decades Bill's company has worked free of charge for social causes such as Queensland Life Saving, the Queensland Cancer Fund and the Red Cross Blood Service.

The creation of Angel Flight Australia has allowed Bill the opportunity to combine his passion for social care with his love of flying.

He brings a blend of management skill, knowledge of aviation and an active social conscience.

I have devoted my working life to helping those less fortunate than myself, especially through my work as a doctor and surgeon since 1958.  In 1986 I realised a long ambition when I learnt to fly. In 1992 I obtained a command instrument rating and a night VFR rating.  I have been a Rotarian since 1968 and am a member of IFFR Australia. I retired from surgical practice in 2003. I am looking forward to participating in my next Angel flight since it is a way that I can continue my ideals.

Greg is Managing Director of Mobile One Australia a Communications Manufacturing Company based at Camden Airport NSW. Greg has been flying since 1974 and holds an unrestricted Private Pilot Licence with a Night VFR rating. He also holds New Zealand and USA licences. In the last 30 years Greg has accumulated over 3500 hrs traveling all over Australia, New Zealand and the USA. He operates a Grumman Tiger Single Engine Four Seat Aircraft Callsign VH-IFT based at Camden and has been flying this machine since 1983. He also has experience flying Helicopters, Ultralights, Balloons and Gliders.

Shaun is the Executive Director of Strategic Aviation Pty Ltd, one of Australia’s leading aircraft charter brokers and lessors. He is a veteran of many Angel Flights, holds a Command Instrument Rating, and operates both the TBM850 and Cirrus aircraft.”

My name is Bevan Anderson. I am 31 years old and live in Melbourne. I run my own business, doing Computer Consulting and also develop GPS upgrades for flight simulators. I have held a pilots licence since 1990 and currently hold a CPL and MECIR ratings. My interests include aviation. I have flown extensively around australia. I also dive, ski and I cycle to work every day.

The picture was taken two years ago at Nullabour Hotel when I flew a Bonanza A36 to Perth with my partner and two friends.

Barry has been flying since the early 60's. He has a Command Instrument Rating. Barry and his wife Cheryl, who has a Commercial licence, has flown extensively over Australia, Lord Howe Island and Papua New Guinea. Barry and Cheryl live at Forestdale in Brisbane, own and operate their Piper Turbo Lance II from Archerfield Airport and run their own business, QLD 4WD SALES, at Moorooka.

Cheryl has a Commercial Licence and just loves flying. Cheryl and her husband Barry have flown extensively over Australia, Papua New Guinea and Lord Howe Island. This wife and husband team live at Forestdale in Brisbane, own and operate their Piper Turbo Lance II from Archerfield Airport and run their own business, QLD 4WD SALES, at Moorooka.

While not a professional pilot, I've gradually accumulated my CPL and CIR over the past 6 years. My real job is Marketing Manager for Tooheys brewery, and I just fly for the love of it. I'm pretty lucky, and I have good health, so I've always wanted to give back to the community. Now I can do that and combine it with my greatest passion (aside from my partner of course).

I am 28 years old and own a Finance Broking business in Neutral Bay NSW. I have been flying for 11 years, got my Restricted license before I had left school, completed my PPL in 1997 and obtained my PIFR in April this year. Since then I have been flying for the fun and take every opportunity to get airborne.

I am 62 years old have 4 children and 6 grandchildren.From 1984 to 2001 I owned and operated Hotels and currently I am a registered Bookmaker licenced in SA. NSW and NT. I learnt to fly in 1998 and purchased a Cessna 182 in 1999. During mid 2007 I will pass 1000 hours.
I have enjoyed flights all over Australia.

I am RAAF trained with time in Korea on Meteors. I instructed on Wirraways and Winjeels at Point Cook for a few years and spent two years with the DCA as an Examiner of Airmen. Mostly I've flown for agricultural work in Jamaica, Brazil, UK, Bangladesh then Emerald in Queensland. I have held Instructor and Instrument ratings. Total aeronautical experience 23,016.

I am a farmer near Gunnedah in Northern New South Wales and have been flying since 1993. I have a NVFR rating with over 1100 logged flight time.
I have owned VH-OTC, a Piper Arrow, since 1994. The aircraft is maintained to IFR standard.

Neil Bates

1950 Born - Leonora (West Aust)
1966-1972 RAAF Apprentice Airframe Fitter
1973-1986 Pilot's licence and family owned property
1987-1990 Contract aerial mustering
1990-Present Senior Pilot / Livestock Co- Ordinator Stanbroke Pastoral Company

John Bawden

At the age of 16, I was awarded a Flying Scholarship by the RAAF and learned to fly as a member of the Air Training Corps. A couple of years later I became a volunteer ambulance officer with the St. John Ambulance service in S.A. and I went on to spend a couple of holiday periods at the Air Ambulance base at Whyalla where I undertook airborne duties.

Over the years I have gained multi-engine endorsements and CIR. Most of my recent flying has been conducted in the TB10 Tobago.

I see the Angel Flight program as a tangible way of giving something back to the community by using a skill that has been gained over the years. I look forward to being a small part of this very worthwhile endeavour.

Richard is a flying instructor at the Royal Victorian Aero Club in Melbourne and has been flying since 1998. He got involved in Angel Flight because it is another way he can combine his passion for flying and enjoyment of meeting people.

"Angel Flight is exciting because I can do something I love while assisting those who need help the most. Very cool!"

Company director - Abel Aviation.

Obtained Private Pilots Licence with the Royal Aero Club of NSW, thirty-four years ago. Total time about 2800 hours. Command Instrument Rating 700 hours. Many more ratings and indorsments. Operate company-owned PiperArcher II SP.

Until 1999 Graham Bentley was employed as a computer consultant with the Commonwealth Bank and later EDS Australia. Following his retirement he satisfied a lifelong ambition and learnt to fly. He gained his PPL with, and flies with, the Scout Association of Australia at Camden NSW. He usually flies a Cessna 172, is VFR rated and has retractable gear and CSP endorsements on a Cutlass.

Graham is 62, married with three adult children. His hobbies are food, wine, travel and flying (especially assisting the Scout Association with its regular flying activities for Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Venturers).

Nick is Regional Director, Asia Pacific with a global investment management company INVESCO. He lives in Melbourne and regularly flies from Essendon Airport to his farm near Corowa on the River Murray. Nick flies a twin Turbocommander.

David has been flying since 1991, mainly in aerial agriculture, and recently in IFR charter. He has also been involved in major fire bombing campaigns in NSW and SA and has flown in Malaysia for three years spreading fertiliser. Currently David sprays cotton, mainly during the night.

David has an ATPL and command instrument rating and is Chief Pilot and General Manager for an agriculural operator in Narrabri, NSW. David and his wife Julie are the proud owners of a Cessna 310.

Tracy Bray

Tracy is a senior flight instructor (Grade 1 multi-engine IFR) at Parafield airport, Adelaide. Flying started as a hobby 8 years ago, and soon after developed into a passion and a career.

Tracy loves flying and people and says, "I am looking forward to many many years of Angel Flight missions, meeting some special people, and using my passion for flying to help those in need."

Chris Brooks

I am a grain trader based on the Murray River at Barooga and have been a pilot for over 22 years as part of my job covering the east coast sourcing grain. I love the practical flexibility of small planes and am very happy to be in a position to offer both my services and planes for this great cause which I am proud to support to the best of my ability and availability. We have a single engine Piper Saratoga and a twin engine Aero Commander strike 500 which fly regularly from the Riverina to all capital cities on the east coast.

I am 38 years old and live on a cattle station in South West Queensland. I gained my licence in 1988 and fly a Cherokee 235. Flying has helped reduce the tyranny of distance and I'm looking forward to helping others who can benefit from this innovative organisation. I have approximately 1800 command hrs.

Andrew Bullard owns and operates a Piper JetProp from Northern NSW where he runs his irrigated farming enterprise. He started flying in the early eighties and has accumulated nearly 2000 hours over a wide variety of aircraft types.

Ted Bullock

I am a 58 year old retired Qantas Captain with over 17000 hrs flying time. I first learnt to fly in 1967 whilst an Aircraft Engineer in the RAAF. I still hold an ATPL, Command and Private Instrument Rating. I look forward to helping where I can in the years ahead as an Angel Flight Pilot.

I have been flying for some 40 years with about 3,400 hours total time. I own two flying aircraft, a C172 and an RV7A plus a PA22 under restoration. The idea of being able to help someone far less fortunate than myself has taken on a new meaning since the recent death of my brother through cancer. I hope to be able to do further trips for Angel Flight as I am retired and living at Tyabb on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria.

I am 34 years young, married to Monika, a 32 year young Swiss lass and we have two girls Jacinta and Natalia aged 5 and 3 respectively. I am a farmer and we own a 518 ha irrigation property producing mainly corn and barley.

My flying career began in 1986 when aged 16 I began to learn to fly trikes (powered hanggliders or microlights) illegally, as back in those days it was illegal to fly two up in an ultralight. In 1987 (I think) I gained a licence to fly weight shift ultralights, this was just as the licencing system was being worked out for them. In 1990 along with another pilot and two passengers I lead a flight of two trikes from Coleambally to Perth making us the first to fly any ultralight from an eastern state to the west coast.

In 1991 I did my three axis conversion and gained my instructors rating in both weightshift and three axis ultralights. Not much happened then untill last year when it was decided we needed more seats (due to growing family). In just 2 months I converted and gained my PPLA with constant speed and retractable endorsements, necessary due to the sale of my old ultralight and purchase of a Piper Arrow II. I am continuing my studies and presently half way towards my CPLA.

Grant Burley

Grant Burley is Managing Director and major shareholder of Pacific Premium Funding Pty Ltd, a large financial institution having offices throughout Australia. He and his wife Kym own a property at Camden Haven located between Taree and Port Macquarie. They have their own airstrip and commute weekly from Sydney to Camden Haven. Grant and Kym own a 1981 Cessna C310R; a 1990 TB20 Socata Trinidad which was procured from North America; and a Robinson R44 helicopter. Grant posesses a multi engine instrument rating and rotary wing licence and although he has only been actively flying since early 2000 he has flown around 1350 hours, the vast majority of which has been in C310s and C340s.

Ian Burn

Ian first learnt to fly as a university student in 1976 as his father though it was useful for a civil engineer to be able to fly to remote job sites. After completing Uni, Ian finished his unrestricted PPL in the early 1980s. Since then and after a break of 12 years - travelling, getting married, starting a family, changing jobs moving from Sydney to regional NSW - Ian recommenced flying after deciding to become self employed as an engineering consultant based in regional NSW. Since recommencing flying activities in 1999 Ian has flown over 300 hours and completed a NVFR rating. He is (as finances permit) working towards obtaining a CIR. Ian sees participating in Angel Flight as a way of doing something he enjoys not only as a means of transport associated with travelling to job sites, but being able to help others in need.

• Married with 2 children
• Lives in Perth Western Australia
• Private Pilot Single Engine NVFR and Private Helicopter Licenses.
• Owns and operates a Piper Malibu and Robinson R44 Raven II in partnerships.
• Flying for almost 10 years, accumulated nearly 1,800 hours fixed wing and 500 rotary hours.
• Business interests in the wine industry.

Simon Cameron

My name is Simon Cameron and currently hold a PPL. I live on a property near Roma in QLD which is a family property and run in conjunction with other properties. We own a Cessina 182R which I use to get around the properties. Angel Flight is a great idea and which I will proudly support.

I was born in 1945 in Copenhagen Denmark and migrated to Australia in 1980.

I learned to fly with the Royal Victorian Aero Club in 1998. I hold a twin-engine license with CIR and night rating. I have flown more than 600 hours most of those in twin engine planes.

I partly retired from my IT development business in 1998. I have flown extensively in the outback and I am currently planning a trip to Europe in my Seneca II.

Ashton Cavanagh

A retired Air Traffic Controller, Ashton has spent much of his life in Western Australia. Born in Westonia of farming parents, he understands the challenges facing those who choose to live in remote areas.

"My parents had a farm a few miles outside Westonia in my younger days, and they struggled with natural disasters of biblical proportions. It's not always easy for people living in regional Australia and it can be especially hard for those with poor health and not much money who are separated from close family members. Now that I'm retired I want to do my bit to give a helping hand where I can and Angel Flight gives me the opportunity to do this in a meaningful way."

Ashton's interest in flying began when he was sixteen following his first flight in a De Haviland Hornet.

"I left home to join the RAAF and was at the engineering school at Wagga when I got my first opportunity to experience flight. I loved the thrill of flying, but it wasn't until 1989 that I got really serious and subsequently bought a Piper Cherokee 180D aircraft."

John is a Civil Engineer with his own consulting engineering practice and married (near 40 years) to a lovely nurse (double certificate) who currently specializes in palliative care. John's family also includes 3 beautiful daughters and 1 gorgeous grand daughter. The engineering practice is located at Moorabbin Airport and John has flown continuously for 30+ years and currently holds a PPL with NGT VMC rating and multi & single engine ratings for many aircraft.

I run a contracting business "Cowell Electric Supply Pty Ltd" specialising in provision of essential services (power, water and waste water) in rural and remote areas of Australia. I use my V-Tail Beechcraft Bonanza V35B for work purposes flying around the bush and for travelling between Cowell and Adelaide. (48 minutes trip instead of a 5 hour drive. I have been flying since 1977 and have clocked up about 1300 hours, mostly in Bonanzas. I have two children, Sarah (17) and Kristy (16).

I have been flying since 1989 and qualified to PPL status in 1992 before going to achieve NVFR, CSU/UC endorsements. Most of my flying has been around the southern half of Western Australia, however I have managed to briefly explore Parafield, Moorabbin and Acherfield Airports from the air. My job that supports my weekend passion, is HR Manager for QBE Insurance for WA/SA/NT that has me flying commercially often, with some days spent more in the air than on the ground. With Angel Flight, I have volunteered both as an Earth Angel and as flight angel on different missions.

Married with one daughter.
Live in Hamilton Queensland.
Private Pilot IFR.
Own and operate a 1998 Piper Malibu Mirage.
Flying for 10 yrs.
Property developer with background in Civil Engineering.
Residential projects in SE Qld and Victoria.

Steve is a Contract Manager for ENERGEX Australia in Brisbane, and has previously worked in similar roles with Boeing Australia and the Department of Defence. He has held his PPL since 1989, holds a night rating, and is a member of the Redcliffe Aero Club. He enjoys flying all types of aircraft, but has a special like for Socata's "Trinidad" and the Piper Cherokee series. Steve is also a comissioned officer in the Australian Army Reserve, where he is a specialist intelligence officer.

Steve's father Hilton accompanies him on Angel Flight missions as co-pilot. Hilton is is a highly experienced private pilot, and now works as a driving instructor in Brisbane, where he owns and operates his own driving school. He previously owned a Piper Archer in Canberra.

Peter is an Electronics Engineer and a Training Consultant. He is an aviation enthusiast and flys radio controlled model aircraft when not flying from his usual base at Moorabbin Airport.

He is Chairman of the Melbourne Aviation Group and a member of the Royal Victorian Aero Club.

Peter has a Private Pilot's Licence and Night VFR Rating and has flown over most parts of Australia including many very remote areas.

Started flying in 1999.

I moved from Sydney in 1986 I started my own charter business operating out of Brisbane airport.

I have since closed the charter business and moved to South East Queensland near Kingaroy where I own and operate a cattle property where I grow beef and will soon start a breeding program as well.

As well as flying I am currently studying for a Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Business Law.

I have my Private Pilots license and have competed my theory course for the Command Instrument Rating but have yet to complete the practical flying part of the qualification.

I hope to do this and earn my Commercial license within the next 3 to 5 years.

Robert trained as a vet and works in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry. He has held a lifelong interest in flying but only began flying in 1994. He gained his Private Pilots Licence and has used it to fly on some long trips outback. Robert is a member of the Alpha Flying Group, an owners group with 3 aircraft.

While at Newington College in Sydney I joined the RAAF Air Training Corps. My first introduction to flying was unlimited access to a Link Trainer (can't tell you how many hundreds of hours I did in this early simulator!). In 1970 I completed my PPL at Illawarra Flying School at Bankstown and went on, over the next few years, to obtain twin endorsements and several advanced ratings.
I've logged 2500 hrs and own a late model Beechcraft Baron 58 (VH-OMZ), the second love of my life!!
My first 5 Angel Flight Missions gave me a first hand insight into the operation of this wonderful organization. Now with the new '100% fuel discount' arrangement as well as a full credit of all air-nav charges, none of us will ever do our flying any cheaper!! On top of that, the 'feel good' buzz in the air when you are welcoming and farewelling patients, family members and carers is very special. I'm looking forward to many years of association with Angel Flight.

George is a computer programmer who loves to fly. He has been running his own computer programming and consulting business (Softbiz Pty Ltd) for the past 17 years, and has been involved in aviation for 3 years.  During that time he has flown many hours in outback and western Australia, and thoroughly recommends seeing Australia by light aircraft as the preferred mode of travel. George has a wife and three ‘young adult’ children. The eldest, Michael, has recently married, and works part-time with George in Softbiz whilst studying IT at Uni. His daughter, a graduated Medical Scientist, runs her own business teaching piano, and his younger son Ben is a television presenter with Channel 9 Qld.  George’s wife, Lynne, also works with him, and flies with him whenever the opportunity arises.

Steve always wanted to fly. He left Liverpool UK and came to Australia in 1971. His business is manufacturing metal components for the packaging industry and interests include:-
- Soccer - goalkeeper for Liverpool FC & Coburg SC
- Cricket - wicket keeper, captain & umpire
- Golf - member at Springvalley GC
- Acting - TV & film since 1980
- Acting & Directing - for Melb amateur theatre
- Astronomy
- Birdwatching

Steve began flying with Vic Aero Club in 1997, and he now has a Piper Cherokee Warrior which is on line .. and handy .. at Moorabbin.

I learnt to fly with Royal Victorian Aero Club in 1977 and currently have over 1700 hours in command. In 1985 I purchased my Beechcraft Bonanza A-36, VH-WBO and since then have flown that aircraft around most of Australia and PNG with my family. I was a founder member of the Australian Bonanza Society and became the Society’s second President in 1988. I am a VFR qualified pilot and also have a Formation Flying and Aerobatic endorsement. Since my retirement from business in 2006, I have found I have been able to participate in the Angel Flight program on a regular basis, and currently have completed 40 flights. I live at Mount Eliza on the Mornington Peninsula and am a member of the Peninsula Aero Club at Tyabb, Victoria.

Married to the same extraordinary lady for 32 years. We have 2 sons 25 and 21; and 2 grand children; 2 and 4 mths. I have lived in Creswick for the past 23 years and learned to fly at the Kyneton Aero Club in 1974/5.

Previous committee member at Kyneton and Ballarat Aero Clubs and Ballarat Aviation Museum. I own my own business "Retail Loss Prevention and Recovery" and am a Licensed Commercial Agent. I am a great believer in assisting others to enjoy life to the fullest and am only too happy to help out were I can.

I started my flying training at Hoxton Park back in 1978 and gained my license the following year. During the seventies I was a professional Speedway Rider both here and overseas.

These days my wife and I enjoy touring around the country on our Honda Goldwing Motorcycle and also in our aircraft having flown extensively in the outback. We own three "Just Cuts" franchises in Sydney, Taree and Port Macquarie. I have also given many children their first flight for the Young Eagles programme.

Angus has been a pilot since 1974 and has about 6,000 pilot in command hours, mostly aerial mustering in Cessna 180's, 185's and 206. He is from a flying family with 2 brothers and 1 sister who attained pilot's licences and his son is now a pilot (who also recently registered as an Angel Flight pilot). Angus is married with 2 married children and 2 grandchildren. He owns and operates a cattle and sheep station and Droughtmaster Stud in Western Queensland. Angus has always enjoyed community and charity work and is only too happy to help such a worthy organisation as Angel Flight and people who are needy or less fortunate.

Kerry is a 'retired' medical specialist now living at Tarago near Goulburn in NSW, where he operates a sheep farm with his wife Zoe. He gained his private pilot licence at Bankstown in 1967 on the Victa Airtourer and since then has enjoyed flying various single types over most of Australia. Along with a few mates Kerry owns a Warrior and Bonanza. He has a command instrument rating and approaching 1000 hours in a well worn log book.

Mark’s day job is that of a city based dentist, with a family comprising a wonderful wife (who is a great co-pilot in every sense of the word!) and three daughters aged 18, 14 and 9. He spends much of his spare time involved in church work. He has been a private pilot for the last 10 years, has recently completed his command instrument rating and loves flying his Express S2000 – VH-MWD (meticulously built over a period of 5 years by Mark and his father). The Express is maintained to IFR standard. It is a fast, reliable cross country machine, and some great destinations have been reached in this aircraft since it first took to the air in January 2005. He is looking forward to contributing help those in need in regional and rural Australia via Angel Flight.

Andrew Derrick

Andrew started his aviation career as a skydive instructor in the early 90's. In 2005 the decision was made to pursue aviation as a full time career and is now an Instructor with the Royal Victorian Aero Club.

David is, in his “day” job, a sea pilot with the Melbourne-based Port Phillip Sea Pilots, a business that has been providing pilotage services in the Melbourne area since 1839. A former captain with TNT Shipping, David now lives in Melbourne and spends some of his leisure time flying his glass-cockpit equipped Cessna 182T, and occasionally serving with the RAN Reserve. He currently holds a CPL and CIR, and his flying experience has included flights in India, USA, NZ and of course Australia. His aviation highlight was flying his new C182 from the Cessna factory in Kansas (KIDP) to the packing facility in Kiln (KSTN), Mississippi, just before Cyclone Katrina hit in 2005. Angel Flight offers him an ideal opportunity to combine his passion for flying with simultaneously putting something back into the community; the ultimate reward for those who are fortunate enough to be able to take to the skies.

David is married to Debbie, part-time nurse and full-time mum, and they have a18-yr old son Keith who is studying physiotherapy at Monash Uni.

Nev holds a private pilot's licence as well as being an active glider tug pilot for over 17 years and has been gliding for over 25 years.  Nev is a committed family man and is regularly joined by sons Liam and Alex when flying.  Ever-patient wife Michelle also enjoys the flying and the peace and quiet when the boys are off.  Nev is a shareholder in a Piper Arrow based at Archerfield.

"Angel Flight allows me to indulge in my passion for flying as well as my desire to give something back to those in less fortunate circumstances than me" says Nev. Nev is an Estate Planning and Business Succession specialist to advisers in the Insurance industry.

I've chalked up over 23,000hrs. It goes something like this:-

I started flying in 1964 and became an instructor at the Royal Queensland Aero Club. In the late 60's I joined TAA (Trans Australia Airlines which became Australian and then Qantas) and was posted to Papua New Guinea on DC'3s ,F27's.Command DC9's ,737's. Then Singapore Airlines from 1991 with B737's, Airbus 310's, Airbus 340 commands. I retired from airline flying July 2004.

I now fly a C180F VH-REI with my wife Julie.

"I started flying in the USA, where I'm from, in 1998. My wife and I moved to New Zealand in 2000 where I finished my PPL and CPL. We then moved to Australia in 2002 where I completed my Instructor rating and CMEIR. I'm currently a charter pilot and senior grade 2 instructor (about to sit Grade 1) at Bankstown Airport and have about 2,500 hrs. I've been looking to forward to conducting Angel Flights for some time now and feel it is a great way to show what GA is all about and why local airports are important to the community."

I learnt to fly in Sports Aviation in 2001 at Cooranbong NSW. After 200 hours in a Jabiru I went on and got my PPL. For the next two years I was a member of the Gunman Group C172/PA32-300 out of Bankstown. For the last 18 months I have been in a syndicate of three who own a Baron BE55 out of Warnervale NSW. For a bit of Summer fun I have a Drifter/Fisher on Floats. I fly as often as possible and hold NVFR and PIFR rating.

Hal is a retired Airline Pilot with over 22,000hrs. At one stage or another a Licensed Engineer, QFI, Check and Training Captain, Manager and Test Pilot.He was born in Sydney in 1942. Aviation life started as an apprentice maintance engineer with Qantas in 1958. In 1963 he joined TAA as an Electra Flight Engineer and in 1965 joined Cathay Pacific in the same capacity. Over the next four years he obtained an Airline Transport Pilots License at the Hong Kong Aero Club. Pilot time was gained instructing in his spare time in Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. In 1969 he became a Cathay F/O on the Convair 880 and was promoted to Captain on the Boeing 707 in 1973. He retired in 2002 having also flown the L1011 and B747-2/3/400.
He now operates a fleet of one C210 which he shares with long time friend and Ground Angel, Neil Morley.
He finds Angel Flight perfect, it allows him to help others while satisfying a need to get airborne. Along with golf and fishing spare time is spent breeding and racing thoroughbreds.

It took Garry 42 years to finally have the opportunity to learn to fly and now he holds a PPL with 400+ hours under his belt. Garry and his wife are the proud owners of VH-NML a bright orange (not of their choice apparently) 182M known as THE JAFFA.

As a farmer in the Pilliga area of North West NSW Garry is very aware of the difficulties involved in accessing medical facilities.

"If I can help to reduce the tyranny of distance for a few deserving souls then I am glad to help. After all lending a hand without expectation of reward or recognition is what this Country was built on", says Garry.

"Learned to Fly in 1979 at Hong Kong's Aero Club based at Kai Tak airport. The training included sharing the airspace with 747 and other aircraft, with 60 minute holds over Kai Tak in a C152 a regular event.
From there I moved back to Australia to work with TAA and developed ground handling arrangements for the A300 introduction, based in Melbourne. Converted my flying license to the Australian equivalent and then proceeded to improve my qualifications, this happened in between work requirements but now includes Commercial, night rated with a Twin CIR endorsement. I have not ventured much past Birdsville but Melbourne, Adelaide and the many places in between have been good fuel and refreshment stops. During my flying time I have been fortunate to fly the A300, 747 and 707 simulators all of which have given me a wonderful perspective on flying and the freedoms it provides. Being retired from 36 years of working with aircraft in many parts of the world gives me time to assist the Angel Flight cause."

Alan is a winegrower/winemaker and a semi-retired pharmacist. He is a 1600+ hour private pilot and owns and flies a C172M VH-UGD--affectionately known as the UGly Duckling, based at Kyneton, Vic.

"Flying is both a privilege and an obsession and I approach every flight as both an adventure and a learning experience. My personal flying preferences are long distance solo flights and my ultimate goal is an around the world flight. 'Warm-up' flights in the UGly Duckling have included solo to Norfolk Island and numerous Bass Straight crossings. I have flown the vast outback with my wife Heather, raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service; have introduced Young Eagles to the adventure of flight; and regularly participate in the annual Camp Challenge weekend, providing seriously ill young children with the opportunity to experience the freedom of the skies. I regard my involvement with Angel Flight as a privilege and look forward to a long and fruitful association."

Alan is also Founder and President of the Cessna 172 Register, and long-time Committee member and former President of the Kyneton Aero Club.

For the record, I was born in Sydney during WW2 & moved to Wilgabar Grenfell in 1946 upon Dads return from Borneo. Schooled at a local primary then All Saints College Bathurst then Hawkesbury Agricultural College.

Managed the wool & cropping business for Dad for a short while & then for the last 43 years for myself & wife Gaynor.

Learned to fly in 1970 when wool took a big downturn, going commercial and flying for the next 30 years with Hazelton Air Services Cudal as a permanent part timer, mainly agricultural working out of Wilgabar.

The main reason for my interest in Angelflight is that over 10 years ago I was diagnosed with lymphoma and therefore have inside knowledge of just what happens to people & the stresses of that time. Words cant express my admiration of all the "Angel people" not only Angelflight but all the other support organizations as well. This appreciation only becomes more vivid as the time goes by because, understandably, you have some very big things on your mind at the time.

Now, since they no longer want to see me any more, I hope to make a bumpy road a little smoother for others.

Rob Evans is a process and systems consultant, specialising in mining, processing and manufacturing. His interests include flying, mining, computers, viticulture, family and travel. Rob learnt to fly in the seventies and then worked as a flying instructor at Archerfield. In the eighties, he established and managed a gold mining operation in North Queensland.

Rob is married with three children, lives in Brisbane and flies a Piper Saratoga.

I developed a passion for flying when reading about early aviation pioneers and from flights I took as a teenager in a Tiger Moth and a Dragon Rapide. (One of my most treasured possessions is the original Honorarary Membership Certificate presented to Amy Johnson by Hull Aero Club.) I hold UK and Australian fixed wing and helicopter licences including a helicopter commercial licence and I run my own helicopter company, Aquila Helicopters, out of Canberra Airport. While in the UK I represented an Italian aircraft manufacturer and one of the joys in my life was doing the delivery flights of new light aircraft from the factory in Rome to new owners in the UK. Apart from my flying I work professionaly as an organisational psychologist and have twice held appointments as a University Professor. I'm proud to have been the first helicopter pilot to do an Angel Flight which I found an extremely rewarding experience.

A builder by trade but a passionate flyer for fun. My claim to fame is a flight around the world on my Bonanza in 2002. I also own a Tiger Moth of the same vintage as me. i.e built 1942.

I am 74 years of age, have been a member of Rotary for 32 years and am also a Flying Rotarian. I own Saratoga PA32R VH-GKF; hold a Command Instrument Rating and have 2500 hours flying experience. I am semi-retired with interests in a manufacturing business in Sydney and a beef breeding enterprise at Gunnedah.

LCDR Derek Frew joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1973. During his seaman officer training he served in HMA Ships DUCHESS, STALWART and SWAN, where he obtained his Bridge Watchkeeping Certificate. He was selected for aircrew after subsequent seagoing postings, and qualified as a helicopter pilot to fly UH-1B Iroquois, Bell 206B-1 Kiowa and AS350B Squirrel helicopters. LCDR Frew served in embarked flights in HMA Ships STALWART, TOBRUK, ADELAIDE and SYDNEY flying each of these helicopter types. Following S-70B-2 Seahawk training in the USA in LCDR Frew was posted to Navy Headquarters in Canberra to manage the introduction into service of the Seahawk. He returned to sea in command of HMAS GAWLER before proceeding overseas in an advisory role. LCDR Frew has undertaken a range of shore postings within both the aviation and the seaman branches of the Navy. These postings include RAN Staff Course, Director of Naval Aviation Warfare, Maritime Surveillance Adviser to the Kingdom of Tonga, Headquarters Northern Command and HQ 81Wing RAAF.

LCDR Frew was a member of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Sinai in 1982-83 and participated in peace monitoring in Solomon Islands in 2000 in Operations TREK and PLUMBOB0410 610 229.

Angela is a multi engine commercial pilot who enjoys the satisfaction of combining aviation with a worthwhile cause.

I am 46 years of age. After obtaining an Agriculture Diploma, my first career was in the Department of Primary Industries in Queensland. Twenty years ago, the flying bug bit and I began the long road to a career in Aviation. I now have accumulated 6000 hrs flight time and have an Air Transport Licence with MECIR and an Instructor Rating. I fly a fantastic corporate Cessna Caravan for BLACK TOYOTA, a country based Toyota Dealer. On behalf of myself and my employer it is wonderful to have the opportunity to help out country people in need.

Peter is a senior Grade 3 flying instructor who learned to fly in the UK, converting to Australian licences in 1995. He has been flying for about 20 years, has about 850 hours, having owned and operated aircraft for some time. He has a very keen and enthusiastic interest in aviation and loves to teach flying. He has a great deal of experience in teaching as an Associate Professor in the Graduate School of Business and Professional Development at the University of Wollongong and so teaches flying for fun during his leisure time. Peter regularly flies interstate and is happy to take flying students on these trips.

My name is Shane Gillard I see Angel Flight as a great way to put back to the community helping others far less fortunate than myself. I own a Comanche VH-STF, 260 B and share of Seneca VH-SVS. I am twin and Instrument rated and based at Tyabb Victoria. I am a Past President of the Peninsula Aero Club. Married to Julie who accompanies me on flights when possible, we have a daughter and our son is also a pilot.

I am a VFR pilot with approximately 600 hours flying time and own a Piper Arrow 111 P28R. I am CEO of a community organisation called Transcare Hunter Ltd which provides transport and a variety of care services for people who are aged, have a disability or have no means of transport. This service operates in the Hunter region. My organisation is pleased that I'm involved with Angel Flight and provide me with time off to carry out this work.

"I come from a General Aviation background and am currently employed by the RFDS (Qld Section) flying Super KingAirs.  I'm already in a job where I fly and help others at the same time. Joining Angel Flight is an opportunity for me to do more of what I enjoy and do a little more to help out in my community."

When I first began flying in 1980, it was possibly the first pastime in which I became involved where I gained a great deal of personal satisfaction. But I wasn't content to fly circuits or hire a club plane and purchased the first of three aircraft, which I successfully integrated (or found good excuse to use) in my electronics business. The increased distance available by air meant I was able to pursue service work hundreds of kilometres from my home base in Western Victoria and between 1980 and 1992 completed some 1000 flights providing service to remote outback communities with electronic test gear and tool box on board. Following an 18 month exchange visit to Alaska (USA) in 1998 I experienced flying in the last true frontier akin to a frozen Northern Territory and I learned to land a Maule Rocket successfully on ice and water. For various reasons I lost interest in GA when I returned home .

In flying-limbo for some years, a fellow pilot and friend asked me if I wanted to become involved in flying again and I owe him and our instructor for my renewed invigoration. And to add meaning to the flying, I suggested that with our collective experience, why didn't we offer Angel flight our skills. To my delight he agreed and I now find myself involved in the most satisfying of pursuits, flying to fulfil my desires but at the same time helping someone and making their experience pleasant and comfortable.

Since gaining my Commercial Licence in June 1966, I have been employed over most of Australia, both as a Rated Flight Instructor, and Charter / Ferry Pilot.
Joined the then DCA in Feb 1974, trained in Melbourne as a Flight Service Officer, and spent over 26 years in this capacity at various locations in both NSW and WA, including 'longer term' postings at Kalgoorlie and Derby. I also served at Jandakot Briefing Office and Perth FSC. "Retired" (Made 'Redundant') in December 2000 as a Supervisor / Manager in Perth Flight Service Centre at Perth Airport, and still hold my CPL, although I am now retired. Managed to do some Charter and other Aerial work over the years. I still enjoy the flying immensly - it still beats 'working for a living'... - and I am pleased to offer time to the "Flying Angel" movementto assist those less fortunate. Thankyou.

Steven Gourlay

Steven started straight out of Uni as a mechanical engineer. After 5 years of air conditioning and fire sprinkler design and an interest in model aeroplanes he went to an airshow and became "hooked" on flying. Soon after flying lessons were started and then after his 5th lesson quit working as an engineer to take up flying full time. Steven is now an instructor at the Redcliffe Aero Club near Brisbane and thinks Angel Flight is a wonderful organisation dedicated to helping those in need.

I am 62 years of age, live in Melbourne and started flying around 10 years ago. I own a Cessna 172 and divide my flying hours between that and a tiger moth. I am semi retired with 2 adult children and enjoy spending my free time flying, boating, keeping fit and holidaying with my wife.

Geoff runs his own property development business and regularly flys to many towns in Australia for business.

He has been flying for a number of years having more than 1500 hours of experience, including an instrument rating and a Commercial Pilots Licence.

In 2005 he purchased a state of the art Cirrus SR22. One of the most interesting features of this plane is the computerised avionics (glass cockpit) and the inbuilt parachute for the plane and its four occupants – something new flyers find very comforting!

Geoff lives on a small farm near Wagga Wagga with his wife and 3 children.

My career background has been in electronics, firstly involved in computer service as an engineer and then service management. Presently I am involved in market product planning for an international office automation vendor.

I started flying as a hobby in 1995 and have completed various endorsements and ratings in that time. My experience includes flight time of more than 400 hrs, with around 150 hrs being twin IFR time.

Other hobbies and sports include water skiing and push bike riding. As our communities are so spread out and every one of us has a responsibility to assist those in need, Angel Flight will provide a unique opportunity to combine my interests.

Des Harrison

Des has been flying since 1994 and has a PIFR rating. He is a qualified CPA and owns the Coopers Colonial Motel located close to Archerfield Airport, where fellow pilots are always made welcome. Des is also the Treasurer of the Archerfield Airport Chamber of Commerce Inc.

I'm employed as a Plumber at Bathurst Base Hospital as well as an Industrial Gasfitter, Service Technician and Consultant. Having been associated with the Bathurst / Blayney area most of my life it has been a base for my business over the past 15 years serving many country clients as far out as Bourke, thus the aircraft has been an asset.

Interest in flying begun at a very young age upon hearing of my Uncle being shot down over Germany in 1934, in a Lancaster bomber during the Nuremberg raid. I can still remember my first flight in a Cessna 180 in 1963 on my Uncle's property at Tarana near Bathurst, that started the BUG.

My flying training commenced in 1979 with Star Air Charter at Bathurst, under the guidance of CFI Charlie Polain and Jerry Trevor-Jones. Gained my PPL in 1880, NVFR in 1981, Aerobatic Rating in 1994 and Multi Engine 1997. Presently have 1200 hours flying on various singles and Duchess.

I am a single father with one son Josh who is a student at St. Stanislaus' College Bathurst and having attained his GFPT on his 17th Birthday. Last but not least we are very proud owners of a Cessna 150 VH-PJG named "George" in memory of my father.

Bruce Harvey

Bruce is married with three adult children. He gained his private pilot's licence in 1986 in South Africa and has over 800 hours in Piper Comanche, Cessna 172/182 and Robinson R22 aircraft. Bruce and his family emigrated to Perth in 1998, and has since obtained single engine aeroplane NVFR and PIFR ratings. Bruce has flown between Western Australia and the eastern states several times in a Cessna 182 and enjoys long distance flying.

Dave Hayes

Dave Hayes is an Army Aviator who has flown Kiowa, Iroquois, Gazelle and Black Hawk helicopters, as well as Porter and Nomad fixed-wing aircraft. Refusing to accept that "flying a desk" is part of growing up, he spends much of his spare time as a civilian flying instructor with aerobatic, multi-engine and instrument training approvals. Dave owns a fully IFR, aerobatic Zlin 242-L which he is happy to fly on Angel Flight missions. His flying experience is over 4500 hours, about 1/3 of which is in helicopters and 2/3 in fixed-wing aircraft.

Currently have 2000+ hours with ATPL. Chief pilot of SkyMaster Air Services. Grade 1 multi-engine IFR instructor with Schofields Flying Club. Married with one child.

I have had a passion for flying from teenage years but starting it seriously about 12 years ago. Owned several different planes and always finding that "the next one up might be just that bit better". I now own and fly a King Air C90 which is a beautiful aircraft for pilot and passengers. I have a multi engine turbine command rating and am trying at the moment to finish off my rotary licence as well. I am a director and supporter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and am delighted to be able to also support the excellent work of Angel Flight providing me the opportunity to engage in my passion at the same time as assisting sick and needy people and their families. It is an honour and a pleasure!

Warwick Henry is a retired airline pilot, having in his career flown for Davey Air Services at Deniliquin then from 1970 for Trans-Australia Airlines, Northern Territory Aerial Medical Service, Australian Airlines and Qantas. He has amassed about 21,500 hours in 73 types of aircraft but now mainly flies his Cessna 182P from Redcliffe and a Chipmunk.

Craig Hobart is a Director of a Funds Management Company. Having always dreamt of flying, he realised his dream in 2000 and has since gained his Private Pilot's Licence, night rating, instrument rating - Multi Engine and purchased a Twin Engine Piper Aztec which he enjoys with his wife Marisa and two boys Joshua and Andrew. Another dream has been to, in a meaningful way, help those in need. It is a bonus to be able to use flying as the mechanism in achieving this . We look forward to supporting Angel Flight in their valuable work.

Peter Hocking is a 3,000-hour pilot with instrument rating. He regularly flies a Piper Saratoga, Cessna 206 and Piper Archer. He has flown in all states of Australia and in the U.S. and the U.K.

Peter Hodgens

I had my first flying lession in 1950 in a Tiger Moth and have been flying ever since. My other passionate Aviation interest has been amateur building of aircraft. My last project, number seven was a Lancair IV which I still own. I get great satisfaction from my efforts to support Angel Flight n their worthy cause.

I live in the Yarra Valley area of Victoria which is a great location for wineries, walking and motorcycling. My 40 years of flying covers many types of military and civil aircraft involving test flying,check and training and corporate management. I hold an ATPL for aeroplanes; a CPL for helicopters and am a chartered professional engineer.

Bob Hughes

Bob Hughes has 40 years of commercial flying that began in western Queensland thence to New Guinea and onto the international scene. Since retirement he maintains his instrument rating and is a member of the Alpha group based at Bankstown. Angel Flight allows him to give something to others which is great.

Jeff has recently returned to Australia to retire after 35 years involvement with Formula One Grand Prix racing both as a journalist covering the races and personal pilot to a succession of Formula One drivers owning their own business jets. Married, with two children 11 and 8 years old, he now he enjoys a less strenuous life flying his own Twin Comanche which he ferried to Australia from his long-time European base near Geneva , Switzerland.

He has now traded 900 horsepower Grand Prix cars for two, 1 HP, horses, two dogs, two dozen cows and eight chickens on a small farm near Byron Bay. "The only thing I really missed in my dramatic change of lifestyle was the need to fly somewhere a few times a week. Angel Flight has fullfilled that need and given me the added satisfaction of being able to help someone in even greater need," says Jeff. Veteran of 10 Paris-Dakar desert car races, the London-Sydney, Panama-Alaska, and London-Mexico marathon car events piloting the support aircraft, Jeff has flown extensively on every continent and amassed some 8000 hours of flying time since learning to fly in the USA in 1975.

I am 31 years old and have had my Pilots Licence for just over 2 years now. I am a part owner in a Cirrus SR20 based at Archerfield. I operate a small design & IT company in Brisbane.

I began flying in 1971 and have continued my interest in flying, currently undergoing CPL training. In 1996 I was a director of Charrak Air operating a Lockheed Electra L118C, N360Q out of Cairns. In 2000 I instigated and ran the Cadet Pilot Scheme at Moruya Aero Club as well as the Adult Flying Training Scheme, both of which continue successfully today. I have just completed my initial multi-engine endorsement in a BE76. I am happy to donate my time to Angel Flight if ever called upon. It is a way of putting back into the community and promoting aviation.

Rick began flying in 1982 and now flys a 4 place Lancair IV aircraft and is a member of the Caboolture Aero Club and RQAC. Other hobbies include sailing, snow and water skiing. Rick's wife, Petrina, is a dentist and they have three beautiful children - Taylor, Dale & Brianna. Thus the call sign: VH - T D B

Born and raised in a small town in western NSW. From an early age I had the ambitions of becoming an airline pilot. Flying lessons were started at the Aero Club in Gilgandra and a private Pilot's licence was eventually obtained in June of 1959. In March of 1961 I graduated 1 of 13 pilots from the initial Royal Aero Club Federation of Australia's Airline Pilot Training program with Commercial licence and Instrument Rating and theoretically to a job in Airlines. Because of the commercial climate at that time, airlines in Australia retrenched pilots so the best job on offer was a cleaner at the Ansett Flying Boat base in Rose bay which was gratefully accepted. Eventually after a DC-3 endorsement with Ansett in Melbourne I joined Mandated Airlines (later to become Ansett Mandated Airlines) in Lae New Guinea, September of '61, as a First Officer. Retrenched from Ansett Mandated at the end of April '62 I found myself shearing sheep with my father until the September when I was fortunate to gain a DC-3 First Officer's position with Ansett ANA in Melbourne. I flew DC-3, DC-4 and Boeing 727 aircraft with Ansett before joining Cathay Pacific Airways in Hong Kong in June '67. At that time the Cathay fleet consisted of 3 four-engined Convair 880-22M jet transports made by General Dynamics of America . Route structure was basically SE Asia with the most profitable route being to Saigon during the Vietnam War. My initial Command was on the Convair 880, which was a joy to fly but very heavy on the controls. As the Airline began to grow and expand into the long haul international market Boeing 707's, Lockheed L1011's (Tristars), Boeing 747-200's, Boeing 747-300's and Boeing 747-400's were purchased.

Upon retirement in '95 I had seen the Airline grow to a fleet or some 50+ aeroplanes and orders for another 30 or so. I trained, checked and held a test pilot status on all Cathay aircraft as well as spending the last 20 + years in Management of a truly great International Airline.

John Kelman

I learnt to fly in 1956 in Tiger Moths (what else) and now have 3000 hours. I am a grazier and spent 40 years in the Emerald area. Semi retired a few years ago to a smaller farm at Gootchie Qld. (between Maryborough and Gympie), with grazing interests in the NT now run by our son. Bought my Mooney M20C in 1985 and got a PIFR after I "retired" in 2002. I do between 100 and 150 hours a year mainly flying to the NT. I am 67 years young and survived cancer of the oesophagus 5 years ago, so feel I owe something back for my good fortune.

Refusing to believe that dental practice is all there is to growing up, Sterling combines his passion for flying with an active social conscience. Since receiving his PPL at age sixteen, he now has a command instrument rating, and enjoys flying his “Flaming Arrow” from Canberra.

I am 59 years old and a Qantas Captain currently flying Boeing 737s. I started flying in 1969 at Tallahassee, Florida in the USA flying a Cessna 150. Now I have over 16,000 hours and I hold an ATPL with a Command Instrument Rating. My previous career was with the United States Air Force flying F-4 Phantom jet fighters. I currently fly Cessna 172s and Cessna 182s from Redcliffe at the Redcliffe Aero Club.

Paul is a Certified Practicing Accountant and General Manager Commercial Operations at Central Queensland University Rockhampton. He's also a Major in Army Reserve and Executive Office of the 42nd Battalion Royal Queensland Regiment.

Married with a grown up son Paul lives with his family on a small farm near Yeppoon with two white Persian Cats.

Paul commenced flying in 1980 and has owned a variety of aircraft. He has an unrestricted Private Pilots Licence with a Multi Engine Command Instrument Rating and plans to soon have his Commercial Licence.

Chris is a professional pilot with Airtex Aviation, a Charter Company in Bankstown, and also owns his own company, ‘Bush Breaks’, flying small groups on trips to the Outback. Formerly a civil engineer, at one stage Chris worked as a volunteer with the local flying doctor in Lesotho, Africa, checking and maintaining mountain airstrips. He later became a project management consultant, before learning to fly in 1993 then flying commercially in 2001.

Ron Letheren

Ron is a recreational pilot and has been flying for 40 odd years and in that time has amassed in excess of 1000 hours in fixed-wing aircraft. Ron has had a love of flying since a child and has tried hang gliding as well as ultra light flying. An engineer by profession Ron has tried many avenues of employment as well as a short stint in the regular army. Ron now runs his own business as a commercial photographer.

Ron has been a zone president for Apex; a Rotarian; as well as involvement with many community organizations. Thus the appeal of doing something for the community and combining his love of flying led Ron to Angel Flight.

John D Littlewood is of a mature age and is a semi-retired farmer. John married Jill in 1962 and they have two daughters, one son and eight grandchildren. John's been flying for over 40 years and gained his PPL in 1962 in a Tiger Moth. He owns a Cessna 182 R, and has VFR with Night Rating. John is currently a Director of Aerial Agricultural Company in Armidale.

Michael Loccisano is Managing Director of the Lockland Group - a Melbourne based property development company. Michael has a Command Instrument Rating (Multi Engine) and holds the exclusive Australian distributorship for Vulcanair aircraft (previously Partenavia).

Being a private pilot and proud owner of a six seater Vulcanair P68C twin Michael is fortunate to be able to combine his passion for flying with his business interests, often flying interstate. Michael and his wife Carmel are both foundation members of the RCH1000, a Royal Children's Hospital charity dedicated to raising important funding for the hospital's research programmes. They live in Parkville within walking distance of the Royal Melbourne, Royal Children's, and Royal Women's Hospitals.

Having family who live in country Victoria Michael and Carmel appreciate the difficulties associated with living in rural areas and the vast distances people are required to travel to seek medical treatment. They are both passionate about helping "Angel Flight" achieve its goal of making a difference to those in need of assistance.

Peter is a semi retired Company Director with over 20 years and 1000+ hours flying experience. He holds a Command Instrument Rating and owns a Piper Saratoga PA32R based at Moorabbin. Married with 3 adult children and 7 grandkids, he was part of a formation flying team for some years, but now enjoys the experience and satisfaction of Angel Flight missions.

Justin is the CEO and President of CorVu Corporation, a publicly listed US globally based software company. Justin resides in Sydney and travels on business extensively. His interests are skiing, flying, fishing, and enjoying life with his family.

Simon Mathews learnt to fly at Bankstown in 1976. Over the years, flying has taken him to Papua New Guinea, USA, Europe and Asia and he has extensive flying experience throughout regional and remote Australia. In 1997-2000 he was the sales and demonstration pilot for Cessna in New South Wales, Queensland and PNG, and last year was the sales and demonstration pilot for SOCATA's TBM700 personal turboprop in Australia, New Zealand and PNG. He has CPL and MECIR and is a member of the Australian Business Aircraft Association.

Today his company SMA, located adjacent to Bankstown Airport in Sydney, specialises in fractional and full sales as well as management of aircraft for the business-owner/pilot. Simon continues his long standing interest in, and support for Australia's rural communities, particularly in areas of health and education and is proud to be associated with such a "can-do" organisation as Angel Flight.

Simon is a Psychologist, operating his own consultancy on the NSW Central Coast, working with both individuals and organizations. He holds a CPL and co-owns a Piper Warrior. All Simon's favourite charities are aviation themed Angelflight, RFDS, MAF, HeliMission, and Salvation Army Flying Padre.

Simon says the great thing about Angelflight is that he can donate time and skills too.

I was born in 1948, have been an aviation nut most of my life and graduated from radio controlled models to the real thing in 1987. I live at Beerwah on the Sunshine Coast with my wife of 35 years, Rosemarie. We have 3 wonderful children who have all “flown the coop”. I have my own homebuilt motorglider and also built and fly a beautiful IFR Lancair IV owned by Rick Jobson (also an Angel Flight pilot).

I own Aerofibre Industries Pty Ltd which manufactures composite aircraft propellers for ultralight and homebuilt aircraft. I hold a PPL with Command Instrument Rating and have logged about 1600 hours in many types of aircraft from the smallest ultralights and gliders to high performance singles and aerobatic aircraft. I also do a lot of glider towing for Kingaroy Soaring Club where I keep my motorglider. I am only too pleased to be able to be part of Angel Flight to help others access medical facilities which are “just around the corner” for we who live in the larger population centres and sometimes take this easy access for granted.

“I am the CEO of a company based in Hong Kong, Connaught Engineering (China) Limited www.connaughteng.hk that manufactures in China heavy forged and machined replacement parts for the mining, minerals processing and utilities industries, for the world market. Currently I have close to 300 hours PIC time.”

David has been flying for over 30 years and has held command multi-engine instrument rating for most of that time. He has undertaken many non-stop long haul flights like Sydney to Darwin, Darwin to Singapore, Singapore to Calcutta, Sydney to Auckland: and competed in several air races around Australia, New Zealand and the Sydney to London event. Most of David’s home flying has been on business having landed at Coolangatta several hundred times and now looks forward to also contributing to Angel flight.

Mike McFarlane is the Managing Director of a specialist inbound tourism company, Oasis OzVacations Pty Limited, and a private pilot with a Command Instrument Rating.

As a former Investment Banker he found it difficult to allocate the time required to pursue his life long interest in aviation and after a career transforming flight around Australia in 2001 decided to start Oasis. His vision is to share the exhilarating experience of travelling this vast country by air with fellow Australians and international visitors.

An active Rotarian belonging to the Rotary Club of Kew in Victoria he believes the Rotary concept of "Service above self" is totally consistent with the stated mission of AngelFlight and looks forward to being part of the Angel Flight’s Australian team. He is also a member of the "International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians".

Born in Scotland, Robert immigrated to Australia with his Wife, Son and Daughter in 1981. He started in business as a Motor Mechanic with the whole familynow working in the business.

Robert started flying fourteen years ago. He owned a 150 Aerobat for seven years and he now flies a Cessna 72 with 180 HP conversion. Robert has approximately 1350 hours, IFR, CSU and aerobatic endorsements. He is looking forward to trying to help others in any way. He is also wishing to promote Angel Flight to other pilots encouraging them to join the 'Angel Flight Family'.

Dr McRae is the Medical and Executive Director of the Australian National Health Advisory Service. She graduated with honours in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Adelaide in South Australia in 1975.

She is also an experienced commercial pilot and flies herself to seminars throughout Australia, often visiting remote areas. Dr McRae and her Beechcraft Baron aircraft do regular work for Angel Flight, a charity which provides free transport for patients with chronic and severe disabilities in remote Australian areas.

Dr McRae has conducted health seminars all over the world and is frequently asked to lecture for numerous health organisations such as The American Liver Foundation and the Annual Hepatitis Symposium.

I've been flying since 1983 and now hold an instrument rating. My Beechcraft Bonanza is based in Archerfield. Angel Flight gives me the opportunity to combine doing something truly worthwhile with my love of flying.

I am interested in flying aircraft, riding my jetski and assisting in church activities. I enjoy a game of squash and relaxing in front of the TV watching car racing.

I’m a dedicated family man with a wife and two adult sons and enjoy helping out in their various projects.

Tony Mitchell has held a pilots licence since 1963 is a Commercial Pilot Command multi Engine Instrument rated with endorsements including Command Citation Bravo and Citation 550, seaplane and is a Aerobatic rated Glider Pilot.

A past Vice President of AOPA Australia and keen supporter of General Aviation in Australia.

Tony will use his Cessna 340 for Angel Flight. It is an all-weather IFR aircraft with long range.

Born 37 years ago in Oberon NSW, where I have been educated, and now run my own engineering business, employing 10 staff. I am recently married, and am involved in the clubs of Apex, Fish River Sailing Club, Bathurst Aero Club and the Road Steamers Association. From these you can see I have many and varied interests, all of which keep me incredibly busy with my 'big boys toys' of sailing boats, steam rollers & aeroplanes. I gained my pilots licence (PPL) in 1995, and my night rating in 1997. My flying hours total around 1700, the majority of those done in my own aircraft, a Piper Cherokee Six which is the same age as me.

Richard, based in Sydney, has spent most of his career at sea as a navigating officer on commercial ships and more recently as captain of a number of large luxury superyachts in the Mediterranean. He is now a Marine Consultant contracting to the NSW Government. He has been flying for about three years now, is instrument rated and owns his own aeroplane which he uses for pleasure and business whenever possible.

Bob has been flying for over 30 years and is licenced Class 1 IFR multi engine. He has extensive flying experience with over 3000 hours "under his belt" having flown Aerostars, Chieftain, Cessna 414, Baron, Duchess, Seminole, Aztec, and Seneca. Bob currently owns and operates a Cessna 172 and Citabria for fun and has access to many other aircraft.

My aviation career started on the 19th November 2000 when I obtained my FAA private pilots licence whilst living abroad in the United States. I continued my training and currently hold an FAA Commercial Single-Engine and Multi-Engine Instrument Airplane Licence.

In early 2002 I returned to Australia to commence studies at the University of Newcastle doing a Bachelor of Science (Aviation) degree which I graduated from in April 2005. I hold an Commercial Pilot License with a Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating in addition to a grade 3 instructor rating.

Presently I am working as an honorary instructor at the RAAF Williamtown Flying Club, and as a casual/relief pilot with the Royal Newcastle Aero Club.

Angel Flight really gives me a great sense of accomplishment; I love the fact that I can help those in need with my expertise. It also allows me to become an ambassador for aviation, a position I am honored to hold.

For the past 10 years I have been raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, I would now like to provide a more personal service to sick people. I am a Licenced Real Estate Agent running my own business Westate Realty, which is located in Armadale, Western Australia. I have owned this business now for 25 years and it's still going strong. Don't hesitate to visit our web site for any information on real estate in our area. www.westaterealty.com.au.

I began my passion for flying 16 years ago, and in that time have flown around Australia four – five times. Have helped to organize and run six Outback Air races, which have now raised well over one million dollars for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. I recently flew all the way to New Zealand across the great Tasman Sea……which was an awesome experience. I love flying and bought 'Stella' (that's my aeroplane) nearly two years ago. Stella is a Mooney, which is a low wing aeroplane and flies like a dream.

John has wanted to fly since an early age and began flying in 1998, over which time he has accumulated over 2000 hours. He currently holds an ATPL, MECIR, Aerobatics Approval & Grade 1 Instructor rating, along with various multi-engine endorsements. John presently works full-time as a Flight Instructor with the Redcliffe Aero Club and is nearing completion in a Bachelor of Aviation Degree through Griffith University. He loves sharing the privilege and the magic of flying with other people and enjoys assisting with Angel Flight missions and helping those in need.

I am 31 and have been flying for fun for 10 years or so. In my current profession as an engineer working on railway projects, I have spent a lot of time overseas which has curtailed the flying I can do so I'm in the process of studying/training to obtain my Commercial Licence and ATPL ready for a career change some time next year.

Marjorie is a barrister based in Townsville. Marjorie and her husband Damien run Pagani Air, a Townsville charter operation. Marjorie has a command instrument rating and flies her company's Cessna 210. As a consulting lawyer to the RAAF, Marjorie carries the rank of Squadron Leader.

Tony is 56 years old and is married to Karen with three grown up children. He is a caravan dealer in Bunbury, Western Australia. Tony started flying 30 years ago and has flown in every mainland state. Karen, who is also a pilot, and Tony own a 1990 Beechcraft Bonanza A36 and fly it regularly to attend most fly-ins in WA. Tony is pleased to use his hobby to benefit others.

I started flying Tiger aircraft after the war and have been fortunate to have been able to fly "just for fun" ever since.

In 1980 I joined a group called the Volunteer Air Patrol, part of the NSW Volunteer Rescue Assocation, and took part in many exercises with them including those with the NSW Police Air Wing.

In 1984 I was one of the officials in the Around Australia Air Race.

I look forward to helping out with any any job Angel Flight throws at me.

Dermot is married with 2 children, living in Perth Western Australia. He is a Private Pilot with twin engine rating and NVFR. Currently a member of the RACWA and University of Western Australia flying club, Dermot flies the C310; Piper Seminole; C172/RG; and a Grumman Tiger.

"I have been flying for over 25 years, 15 of which I was an A2 rated gliding instructor with the RAF in the UK. I am also a past member of the UK Tiger Club. In my business life I am the Group Regional Director for a British Healthcare company, and I am currently completing an MBA."

I am a retired earthmoving contractor from the Gold Coast, having been involved in many great projects in the Gold Coast area and various country areas over the past 44 years. My company currently has property interests.

I first commenced flying training in 1966, but ceased flying for a few years. I became hooked on Gliding in 1973, finally completed my fixed wing aeroplane license in 1978. I am still an active glider pilot and tug pilot. I obtained my rotary wing license in 1985 and my company owns and operates a McDonald Douglas MD520N helicopter and a Cirrus SR22. I have travelled Australia extensively on annual flying safaris.
Having been a member of Rotary for 20 years I enjoy putting something back into the community. I am proud to be on the team with Angel Flight where I can help serve the country areas.

Tony Peterson

From personal experience, Angel Pilot Peterson understands the value of the Angel Flight service.

“Before my Dad died from liver cancer I would use my plane to fly him to Brisbane for treatment and I know the difference this made to him. I was very close to him and admired all that was good in him, especially his community spirit, and I have always wanted to reflect that part of him in my life.

Dad used to fly crop dusters and I would wag school just to watch. But even before that, Dad used to take me to the airfields and I’d stand at the fence for hours just so I could watch the planes.”

His dream of flying became a reality in 1990 when he received his PPL and CPL and since then has flown for Macair during which time he flew staff employed by BHP Billiton, the company for which he now works as a Senior Environment Officer.

"It's a rare event that when we get to share our passion of aviation whilst performing a community service that is actually worthwhile. My first Angel Flight gave me a small insight into how proud the Reverend John Flynn must have been of his life's work (and passion) - The Royal Flying Doctor Service.
 
Angel Flight has been formed out of the same spirit only it's smarter. It taps into two of Australia's great under-utilised resources; the willingness to help those in real need and some of the best trained pilots in the world. My admiration goes to Bill Bristow for making this a reality and to all those who keep it that way. My IFR aircraft and associated flying skills are simply available to Angel Flight to the full extent of my personal means. Thank you Angel Flight for that great life opportunity."

I am 69 years old and have been flying for 7 years and have 620 hours up. I purchased my own aircraft - a Piper Cherokee 140 in January 1996 and completed my training in that aircraft. I am Night VFR rated but not IFR. At Red Cliffs (10 mile south of Mildura in Victoria) we have 33 acres of almonds which I look after.

Other than flying my main interest is Lions International of which I am a District Cabinet Member and Secretary of the Red Cliffs club for 10 years.

I am 29 years old and live in Cronulla in Sydney. I have completed my commercial pilot training and instructor rating. I am a voluntary instructor at the Australian Air League at Camden in Sydney. I enjoy teaching people to fly. I also enjoy flying myself and do so whenever I can. I like the challenges that flying brings as well as the rewards. Being involved in aviation has given me the opportunity to meet many other people with similar interests and I have made some wonderful friendships.

I am very health and fitness oriented. I enjoy many sports but in particular golf, football, cricket and swimming. I have two German Shepherds ('Buddy' and 'Cody-Lee') which I enjoy walking and training.

Bill Pike is past President of AOPA. He is a Senior Captain with Qantas currently flying Boeing 767 aircraft. Bill's flying credits include the RAAF as a fighter pilot. Bill owns and actively flies a Cessna 185 and a Cessna Bird Dog. Bill has been a voluntary consultant to Angel Flight since its inception.

PPL with CIR for 15 years, total time 1205hrs with 1030 IC
Occupation: Veterinary Surgeon
Hobbies: Triathlons and Flying

Owned WSE since Jan 2001, a Cessna Cardinal RG cruises 140 knots, IFR category. Based at Taree. Have flown over 95% of Australia and spent two months in Kununurra in 1989 as flying vet, flying to cattle stations for TB testing.

My name is Michael Quinn Iim 22yrs of age and currently living in Wollongong. I first started flying in 2001 in which i was trained by the Royal Newcastle Aero Club in Rutherford.I am now employed as a Search and Rescue Pilot / Flight Instructor. I very much enjoy what I do and hope to continue on in the aviation industry to fly Airliners, the ultimate dream. I am very proud to be part of Angel Flight Australia and to be able to help those in need. Keep up the good work Angel Flight!

John started flying after leaving high school in Armidale NSW in May 1961. After private pilot stage John was granted a Commonwealth Flying Scholarship to assist in continuing training to commercial licence. This enabled him in 1965 to apply and be accepted into Ansett ANA where he initially trained as a DC3 co-pilot.

John spent nearly 25 years with Ansett and resigned in 1989 after a career, which included positions of check and training captain on most types and a 10-year stint in management culminating in him being appointed Flight Training Manager.

After 10 years spent flying in Europe and the Middle east John returned to Australia in 2000 to become the foundation chief pilot and Head Of Flight Operations for Virgin blue a position he still holds.
In 2004 John fulfilled a lifetime ambition to own and operate his own aeroplane and is now the proud owner of VH-MPT a 1979 A36 Bonanza.

Michael Ralph

Michael Ralph is a private pilot with a night VMC rating (and an aerobatic rating that he's not allowed to use on Angel Flights!), Michael is a Director of the Royal Victorian Aero Club and Melbourne Aviation Group. At the RVAC he helps to run Young Eagles, a free program that introduces teenagers to aviation.

Michael is married to Merryn, who also assists with Young Eagles, and they have five children (and a menagerie of animals).

David (39) and Kylie Rampa (37) are a husband and wife flying team, both holding PPLs with CIRs.  They are the proud owners of a Piper Saratoga which they hangar at Bankstown Airport.  When not indulging in their passion for flying, they are working to pay for it, both are senior executives - Kylie in investment banking and David in telecommunications.

Mark Reynolds

Mark Reynolds has chalked up in excess of 2000 flight hours and currently lives in Kalgoorlie with his wife and two children. Mark is Instrument, Twin, Aeros and Formation endorsed . Mark flys a totally refurbished Socata Trinidad TB-20 that he and his wife have proudly owned for a number of years .

Neil is a Quantity Surveyor in Rockhampton in Central Queensland. Neil runs his own business and flies his own Cessna 210 in the course of business travel throughout most of Central Queensland.

Neil started flying in 2000 and hasn’t looked back since!

I am the Head of Technology at an I.T. company. I learned to fly in 1984 at Archerfield in Brisbane and am now based in Sydney, flying out of Bankstown. I hold a multi-engine endorsement and normally fly a Beechcraft Duchess or Piper Arrow.

Martin Robson

I started flying in 1982 in Hong Kong and hold a PPL with a multi engine PIFR. Over the years I have owned various aircraft including a CAP10B and a C182. My current aircraft is a Piper Lance and I also spend way too much time in a good friends' 180hp Super Cub. I'm a member of the Peninsula Aero Club in Tyabb and have served as their Safety Officer for the past 3 years and as Airshow Director of their biennial airshow since 2006. As a day job I run a company which provides products and services to the precast concrete industry. Joining Angel Flight has been on my list of things to do for some time but business commitments kept getting in the way. I am pleased to finally be part of such a wonderful organisation.

"My love of flying began at the age of 14 when I built Balserwood aeroplanes and flew them at the park. Some years later I discontinued my hobby for many years due to work and family commitments until I went for a tif at Bankstown in 1995 and the itch for flying returned. In 1998 I decided to get a pilots licence and have currently purchased my plane with the call sign VH-JTN which means Juliet, Tango, November and I like to call her my pride and joy. Joining Angel Flight in 2003 I turned a new corner in my life, when my love of flying could help very sick children from regional areas to the medical facilities that they need. The benefits and experiences have been very rewarding."

"I am an Air Traffic Control (ATC) Simulator Manager and ATC Training Officer with the Royal Australian Air Force. Winsome, my life partner, and I are keenly involved in aerial photography, specialising in lighthouse photography, and have been circumnavigating the Australian mainland and Tasmania over the past 2.5 years. We thoroughly enjoy our flying and work extremely well together. Most of our flying is very low level in a C172. We operate out of Royal Newcastle Aero Club, Rutherford, NSW, using their aircraft. We would be very pleased to assist those in need."

"I didn’t get the opportunity to fly till the early 90’s but have been trying to make up for lost time since. It became a passion (as it usually does) so much so that I built my own aircraft VH FLO a Glasair Super II S which while limited to carrying only one Pax is an excellent craft for long bush flights. I very much enjoy bush flying and being able to help people overcome the tyranny of distances when they need help. When not flying my real life job is National Warehouse and Distribution Manager for Lion Nathan Australia (moving lots of beer around the country)."

Greg Rutherford is a 50 year old farmer, who is located between Bruce Rock and Narembeen in the Central Wheatbelt in Western Australia. He has been flying for 31 years and currently owns a Victa Airtourer and a share in a Cessna 172. He holds a PPL, with a current Night VFR endorsement. Greg is married to Glenis, a teacher, has two grown children and three grown step children. He is a volunteer with the Partner & Friends Cancer Support Service with the Cancer Council of Western Australia.

Thirty-seven years old and married with two children, I started my career with an Agricultural Degree and gained employment with NSW Dept. Agriculture. Having always felt passionate about flying, the flying bug eventually overcame "common sense" and I left work to train as a professional pilot. Now with an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and 4,500 hours to my name, I spend the majority of my time flying multi-engined charter aircraft.

Angel Flight has provided me with the opportunity to gain a great deal of satisfaction and fulfillment in being able to help others, providing a sense of accomplishment not often found in the daily routine.

I am a commercial licenced and multi-engine instrument rated pilot in G.A. I fly for a charter company when work requires, and I have recently completed my Degree in Aviation. It is great to see people helping others in need. Hopefully I can be of valuable assistance to Angel Flight as well.

I own and operate a small air touring business known as Big Blue Air Touring based out of Moorabbin in Melbourne. I get to see a lot of remote country and realise just how difficult it is for some families in need to get to metropolitan areas for treatment.
 
Hopefully, Angel Flight will allow me to remove some of the obstacles facing these remote families and let them focus on the more important matter to hand for them.
 
I currently hold a Commercial Pilot Licence with Multi-engine Command Instrument Rating.

I am a self employed engineer, involved in the design and manufacture of Rural Fire Fighting vehicles and equipment. I'm also a Rural Fire Brigade volunteer officer with the Pierces/Lower Emu Creek Rural Brigade. I have been flying for almost 30 years, with NVFR, and multi-engine rating, owning several different aircraft over that time. I currently own and operate a Diamond DA20-A1 Katana and a Piper Seneca 11.

After driving from Melbourne to Perth and back, I said to myself there had to be a better way to see this huge country - so together with my husband, Armin, I started taking flying lessons. We’ve flown literally all around Australia, to the Centre, plus to PNG, which makes the time I’ve spent in an aircraft almost double my ca.1180 hours in command.
I still miss our Thorp T18, but our current Cessna 182 RG is a more practical choice.
My job is teaching ESL at Griffith University, where I was also involved in writing material for an Aviation English course.
All of my flying has been recreational and educational (as in flying competitions and type endorsements) so far; Angel Flight has added a welcome new dimension to it.

I started flying in 2000 at the ripe old age of 15 and it has been my dream since I was young with my head always pointed to the sky. I'm working as a flying instructor and building hours for bigger and better things in the future, Angel Flight is a truly awesome way to give something back.

To fly is to be truly free and to be able to give something back to the community and help out people in need is a gift to be apart of, with use of either company aircraft or Turbo Arrow VH-WHY I want to beable to help those in need of assistance and now have the chance to do that with Angel Flight.

Flying experience commenced at the age of 15 years accumulating some 2,000 hours gliding, glider towing, parachute dropping and general private flying. I have held a command instrument rating since 1981 and a multi engine instrument rating since 1988.

Principle tertiary qualification is electrical engineering and working in the aviation industry for in excess of 25 years. Experience accumulated includes engineer, program manager, consultant, air traffic service and airport operations analyst in Australia and overseas.

"I will never forget my first Angel Flight. My passenger Mavis exclaimed "Oh no!" when she sighted the city in the distance, she was so disappointed her flight was nearly over.. The flight and gratitude expressed by this lovely lady made my day. What can be better than doing something you love i.e. flying, and helping someone else in the process. Every Angel Flight is a privilege that touches your heart and makes you look forward to the next one."

I work in the transport industry and use my plane in my job. I love flying and will use any excuse to get out of the office and into the air. I fly about 150 hours annually. I fly a Mooney M 20 M and my flying hours to date are 550 hrs. My rating is single engine CIR. My other interests are boating and fishing. I'd like the opportunity to give back to the community by helping people in need as a member of Angel Flight.

Born in Canberra in 1974, before moving to Perth in 1988. Joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1993, attending the Australian Defence Force Academy, and completing pilots course in 1997. Upon graduation, was posted to 36 Squadron in Sydney to fly the C-130 Hercules. This included operations in East Timor, as well as the Middle East. Has recently been posted to the Australian Defence Force Basic Flying Training School at the Tamworth Airport as a Qualified Flying Instructor. Have approximately 2600 hours, including 250 PC9, 2100 Hercules, and 350 CT4 hours.

When I heard about Angel Flight I felt I should spend some flying time helping people in need of transport to and from remote areas. I am 46 years old and have been flying since 1995 I hold a SE CIR and a CPL Licence. I have over 400hrs up, 150 of which are on Grummans which belong to the Brisbane Flying Group where I am a Member/Director. I own and operate a small building Business in Brisbane involved with Government work. Flying is my passion and I am keen to help out were I can.

I am 70 years, semi retired company manager, no convictions, not even a parking ticket...married 48 years with 4 sons, 7 grand kids and 2 poodle dogs.

I earned my PPL at the Royal Victorian Aero Club in 1965 where the basic trainer was the DH-C1 Chipmunk then Victas followed by the PA-28's. My wife and I were in Melbourne for a five year period. On our return to Brisbane I joined the RQAC and Redcliffe Aero Club as they were equi-distant from our residence and offered different opportunities and conditions from each other. My membership number at Redcliffe is 48. On my return to Brisbane I gained my NVFR. Over the years I have managed to cover a good deal of Australia by air and a two week trip flying around PNG and the Trobriand Islands in a B35 has been one of the highlights. With family on properties in far west Queensland, we have made many a trip out west. I have an FAA endorsement and have covered a good deal of the USA in a lighty and often wondered why Australia hadn't adopted the USA airspace system much sooner. Most of my earlier flying has been business related but since retirement, that activity has ceased. The opportunity to become an Angel Flight pilot gave having a license a new meaning. As a member of the International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians it sits well with the "Service above Self" motto of Rotary and at the same time gives flying a purpose. I look forward to assisting Angel Flight whenever I can in the future as the few trips I have done thus far have given me enormous satisfaction knowing that others will benefit.

Dr Spall is a general practitioner with considerable experience in rural medicine. Andrew worked for several years in Western Queensland and now practices in Tewantin, north of Brisbane. His heart remains with country people and he still does regular country locums, most recently serving the towns of Coonamble, Gulargambone, Cobar and Warren.

"Angel Flight is not really about flying, it is about helping people, people with medical needs requiring transport across Australia's vast distances."

Andrew has too often been at the decision end of such needs when they can't be met.

Obtained my Private Licence in 1970 and my instrument rating in 1978. My aircraft for the past 15 years is a 1982 Cessna Crusader T303, based at Sunshine Coast Airport. I retired at age 56 to Caloundra in 1996, after 26 years as Managing Director/C.E.O. of Metway Bank/Metropolitan Permanent Building Society.

Additional positions held over the years:

• President - Royal Queensland Aero Club
• Chairman – Royal Flying Doctor Service (Qld Section)
• Chairman – Queensland Museum
• Deputy Chairman – Port of Brisbane Corporation
• Past Secretary/Treasurer of The International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians and President Elect.

I am a farmer in Pittsworth, S.E.Qld and married with three daughters. I started flying in 1978 but got serious in 1993. I have nearly 700 hours and am endorsed on twelve different aircraft, from ultralight to 6 seater twin. I have a night VFR rating and have done a fair bit of outback flying. I own a PA28 140 cherokee which is parked on my property.

Mark Stuart-Russell is an Intensive Care Paramedic with the Queensland Ambulance Service, working in South-West Queensland. He has clinical experience in fixed and rotary-wing aeromedicine. He is also a Commercial Pilot flying Private and Charter work in fixed-wing multi-engine aircraft, including pressurised and turbine. He holds a Command Instrument Rating with two renewals and owns a Piper Aztec.

His background gives him a keen understanding of the advantages of air travel for medical patients and he sees Angel Flight as an opportunity to ‘give back’ to aviation the benefit of his flying skills, in a way that will directly aid those most in need of it.

Began flying in 1989, private licence in 1995, instrument rating in 2000. Around 500 hours total. Part owner of a Cirrus SR20, based at Archerfield. Software business owner by day.

I am 53 years of age and hold CPL and multi-engine command instrument rating. I have been flying since 1987 and now have over 1320 hours.

For some 8 years I operated a successful commercial air tour business called Outback Downunder and retain my AOC, although I seldom use the privileges of that certificate. I am the owner of what I consider to be one of the finest yet grossly under-rated aircraft on the Australian register. That is a Beech Queenair B80 - VH-BQA. In the past I was quite active in AOPA and was a supporter of the new and vibrant team that now heads and drives that organization.

John Terry

John Terry is a lawyer and patent attorney in Sydney and plans to take leave from the practice occasionally for Angel Flight Missions. John has over 500 hours total experience with a command instrument rating with most experience on a syndicate six-seater Cherokee 6 Aircraft and a four seater Cessna 172. John is regularly accompanied by his wife Sue who is a retired occupational therapist. With two grown adult children, there is now time to follow other pursuits and we look forward to handling Angel Flight Missions out of Bankstown Sydney.

I have had a life long passion (addiction) to aviation. My qualifications span across fixed-wing and helicopters. In 2006 I got my CPL Heleicopter Licence with Low Level, Turbine and Sling Load approvals. I am also a qualified Helicopter Internal EMS/SAR Rescue Crewman. I converted my PPL(A) to a CPL(A) in 2008 and am currently Turbine Fixed-Wing Rated, Multi-Engine Night VFR rated. I'm aiming to complete my Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating and also qualify to hold my ATPL(A) and ATPL(H). I have worked in various locations throughout Australia from tourism, charter, aerial work, low level, VIP and skydive operations. Angel Flight is a way for me to offer my profesional aviation skills to those who are in need and when aviation isn't a luxury but a lifeline. It is an honour to be part of Angel Flight.

After working a total of 45 years in the Hydraulic Industry with 30 years managing my own Hydraulic Engineering Company I sold my business in 2004 I am now working part time as a consultant Hydraulic Engineering Specialist with the last 2 years on assignments in Southeast Asia.
I commenced flying in 1963 and currently hold a PPL with Multi Engine IFR rating. My aircraft located at Moorabbin since 1998 is a PA39CR Twin Comanche winner of the Flagship Award at the 2006 International Comanche Society World Convention at Hamilton Island.
Angel Flight gives me the opportunity to indulge my love of flying while being useful and offering some assistance to others in the community.

Started to learn to fly in 1968, and still learning. Had my first flight in 1960 at only 10 years of age, in a Tiger Moth, and have been in love with flying since. Initial training was in Toowoomba on Piper and then Cessna aeroplanes. Joined the Army as a maintenance engineer and flew Cessna 180, Pilatus Porter, Nomad n22b, Bell 47 and Bell 206 to all parts of Australia. Helped to start the Dalby Aero Club and now am with the Parkes Aero Club. Currently own a Beech D55 Baron and an Auster J1.

I'm Mick Toller and I've been in aviation ever since I left school. I had a long career as an airline pilot, including 22 years with Cathay Pacific flying 707s, Tristars, 747s and finally the Airbus A330 and A340. I now have nearly 15,000 hours. I retired from Cathay in 1998 to take up the job of Director of Aviation Safety for CASA, and retired, temporarily at least, in August 2003. My wife and I own a Cessna 303 Crusader and a Cirrus SR20. I still keep my ATPL and Command Instrument Rating current, and fly as much as possible for fun!

I own an A-36 Bonanza, and have a CIR, with some time in Gliders and basic Aerobatics which I like soley for unusual attitude recovery. Most of my flying is for pleasure, but with some work travel. My day job is operating Backpacking businesses in Brisbane, Gold Coast & Hervey Bay/Fraser Island.

I am 49, married to Julie, with two girls Lauren & Rachel.

Richard Tosen

I grew up and was introduced to aviation in PNG. I have been flying now for about 15 years and have multi-engine and tailwheel (conventional undercarriage) endorsements. I manage a computer store in Rockhampton and been involved in both the aviation and IT industries for about 12 years. I have 2 women in my life, my wife Debbie-Sue and my daughter Jocelyn ... and couldn't be happier.

I've been half owner of the Cessna 210 now for 5 years, and what can I say but, "What an awesome aeroplane!" I'm also proud to be involved in Angel Flight!

Steven Tsimos

I am 45 years old and am a Commercial Real Estate Consultant based in Melbourne. I thoroughly enjoy flying and Angel Flight gives me the opportunity to enjoy my passion and help out others at the same time.

I am fully instrument rated and have a multi engine endorsement. I own 2 airplanes, a Piper Arrow II and an E model Piper Aztec both based at Moorabbin.

Karl Valentin

I spent 21 years in the Australian Army and since 1999 have been working mainly overseas in safety training for the oil and gas industry.  My involvement in aviation began in 1995 when I started flying and as I was an active skydiver at the time, there were many opportunities for flying both single and multi engine aircraft. I have a CPL and MECIR although these days my flying is mainly limited to private operations.  Currently I am working under contract to the United Nations in Afghanistan however I look forward to being able to assist Angel Flight when I am at home in Perth.

Brad Vidgen holds a Commercial Pilots Licence and has been a nurse for twelve years. Nursing in paediatrics, including intensive care, he has met families who could be helped enormously by the services Angel Flight aims to provide. "As a pilot, to help people to more easily acess health care will be very rewarding."

When not flying or nursing, Brad enjoys time with his young family and "getting away".

Kim has been flying commercially for over 23 years and holds a current ATPL with numerous endorsements including Chief Pilot approval. As well as many years as a flying instructor, he previously established and ran a charter business (Australian Scenic Air) doing corporate charter work and outback tours all over Australia. Recent years have been spent as the Regional I/T Manager for a large UK company responsible for management of their information technology resources in eight S/E Asian countries.

Nowadays Kim runs KMW Corp, his own Aviation and Information Technology consultancy in Melbourne and when he's not flying or doing coffee with friends can usually be found sailing. He is a strong advocate of general aviation and programs such as Angel Flight that support rural communities.

Born into a farming family in New Zealand, Les was an electrician until 1989, when he undertook pastoral training, becoming Pastor of ‘Fire of Hope’ Baptist Church in 1990.

Pastor Les is now based in Emerald, Western Queensland where he runs Wings of Hope.

For over ten years he has flown thousands of kilometres bringing hope and comfort to the people of the outback.

I am aged 54 and have been flying for 4 years. I own a twin engine Cessna 310 and have travelled extensively throughout Australia.

I am a director and programmer for a software company, Picosoft Pty Ltd, which provides, among other things, software for Victorian regional hospitals. The major use of my multi-engine Command Instrument rated private pilot's licence is to visit these regional hospitals.

I have been active in competitive sport, particularly athletics and catamaran sailing all my life including the recent World Master's games and consider physical fitness an essential safety factor in flying.

I first learnt to fly through the Redcliffe Aero Club in 1990. I can still remember the exhilaration and sense of achievement on completing the first SOLO milestone. To this day flying is exciting and allows me the privilege of seeing the magnificence of Australia from the wonderful perspective of an aircraft. My wife Carisa and I enjoy flying together in our restored Piper Archer SZB which has taken us to many places in Central, Northern & Western Australia. It is my pleasure to help others in need through the wonderful organisation of Angel Flight.

Stephen Weber

I first got a student licence in 1969 and have had "aviation sickness" ever since. I have 3500 hours flying experience, and am the current holder of a command instrument rating. Since 1990 most of my flying time has been at the controls of VH-EJA , a turbocharged Cessna 210. This aircraft is one of the best performing single engine touring aircraft flying today, and a joy to fly.

I hope to have a long association with Angel Flight and everything it stands for.

Jenny is a community pharmacist with shops in both ACT and NSW. She attained her PPL on 9/7/03 and acquired VH-KJO a PA-28RT-201 Piper Arrow IV on 20/08/03. Jenny currently has in excess of 150 hours in command; 350 in total; and is undertaking an instrument rating.

"I was very proud to be asked to speak about Angel Flight to Australian pharmacists earlier this year (2004)," Ms White said.

Stephen is private pilot working towards his commercial licence and holds a command instrument rating and NVFR rating. He is a committee member of the Redcliffe Aero Club ("RAC") and a Director of Tract Consultants, a national Planning, Urban Design and Landscape Architectural company. Stephen hopes to be actively involved in Angel Flight missions on a regular basis and raise awareness of Angel Flight's incredibly important work amongst RAC members and the community at large.

My name is Tim White and I'm 25 years old. I first started flying in 1998 through the University of Newcastle's B.Sc. Aviation Program. I was trained by Royal Newcastle Aero Club and in 1999 I gained NVFR, CPL and MECIR. In 2001 I decided to get an Instructor rating and now work for Royal Newcastle Aero Club flying various types from C150 to PA31-350. I love flying, and instructing is a perfect way to share this passion. It's great to get the opportunity to fly for Angel Flight and use my licence to help others!

Born and bred in Yorkshire, Nick is a commercial pilot and holds licenses in Australia, USA and the UK. He has been flying for over 30 years in a variety of flying machines including gliders, single and multi engine aeroplanes, and helicopters. For Angel Flights, Nick uses a beautiful and very comfortable Beechcraft Debonair: Delta Hotel Tango.

Nick is a company director/owner in the Hunter Valley. "I am very privileged to be able to fly aeroplanes and there is no better way to use that privilege than by flying Angel Flight Missions"

David Wilson graduated from from Queensland University as a civil engineer in 1970. In 1976, following seven years employment on offshore and coastal construction projects, he founded London based Bligh Engineering to design and manage the construction of offshore pipelines and platforms. He sold the company in 1982 and for the next 10 years was involved in various energy related development projects in the UK. In 1992 he moved to Jakarta as chief engineer for an LNG feedgas pipeline project in East Kalimantan. Later, in 1996, he founded PT Bakrie Kvaerner Engineering in Jakarta which he sold in 2001. Mr Wilson returned to Australia in 2002 and now advises project developers, bankers, operators and government agencies in areas related to the development implementation and operation of oil and gas transportation facilities.

John Wilson is one of Australia's leading oil painters and a multi award-winning artist. For John growing up in the Blue Mountains instilled a deep love of the rugged landscape, its spectacular colours and the many moods they inspired. He is recognised as one of Australia's leading painters of landscape and the winner of many awards including the "William Ashton Medal".

To own and operate his own aircraft was "a dream come true" enabling him to extensively travel Australia to capture its beauty on canvas. John loves to fly his Piper Arrow PA28 200R and registered as an Angel Flight pilot to help others less fortunate while indulging in one of his favourite pastimes.

A selection of John's work can viewed online at http://www.johnwilsongallery.com/

My background in aviation is general aviation, followed by a 33year Airline career. I am now semi-retired and back in general aviation looking for excuses to go flying!
I have been an aircraft owner for 7 years. I retain my Instructor and Instrument Ratings.

Chris Wrightson

I'm now up to my fourth Angel Flight and wish I had joined up earlier. I am a retired Senior Technical Officer and fly my Mooney out of Archerfield. I was considering selling the Mooney as I just wasn't flying the hours to justify the annual outgoings but now, thanks to Angel Flight, I can do something useful and rewarding with my aircraft.