Perth

I spent two wonderfully amazing days in Perth, with the aviation community and others. My departure from Geraldton was interesting, and a game of picking the right time to fly. For visual flight, picking a safe route to fly is a juggling game of various factors, and that was the case for my flight into Jandakot, as I had to take into account both the conditions for Geraldton at the time of my departure, any factors along the route, and the forecast for my arrival about 200 miles south. I had a safe window of opportunity during the middle of the day, and departed- constantly checking the forecast as I continued down the coast.

It was a challenging flight into Perth with strong winds and turbulence keeping me company the whole way, however the winds were calmer coming into Jandakot and I landed with a warm welcome from everyone at the Aeroclub.

My two days in Perth were fun filled and I got to meet so many amazing people. I don’t even know where to start!

I had lunch with the wonderful Amy and her mum, Kylie. At only 11 years old, Amy is already flying planes, having taken lessons in a variety of aircraft. She also has her own magazine, Girls Can Fly Anything. Whilst my aim is to inspire young women in aviation, I felt a little bit inspired myself by Amy’s work!

I had dinner with various members from the Australian Women Pilot’s Association, and I also got to chat to some people at the aero club whilst at the airport. I spoke to some students in the club’s ‘Young Eagles’ program. I also saw a Tiger Moth taxiing. Very cool.

I also had the opportunity to drop in and speak with a Girl Guide unit in Perth. To the North Dianella Melaleuca Guides, thank you so much for hosting me for an afternoon! It was wonderful to speak to every one of you and I really appreciated having the chance to share my passion for aviation and answer all of your questions. I actually got into flying through my involvement in Guides when I was younger, which is why I really was eager to say hi! On Tuesday, I also spent the afternoon exploring Perth with Lacey- I tried out indoor bungee fitness, and we went out for ice cream.

My biggest thank you needs to go to Susie and Chris. Susie, and AWPA member, hosted me in Perth for two nights. Thank you so so much for being my unofficial adoptive parents for the three days I was with you, I am so so grateful that you opened up your home to me. I loved especially the chats we had over dinner and breakfast- nothing beats hot tea and homecooked porridge. Also, as a cat person, I felt absolutely at home. You drove me around and showed me Perth- I had the chance to pay a visit to the control tower, and check out the aircraft that you built. I’m in awe of the dedication required to put one together. One of my other all time favourite moments was visiting King’s Park- even though it was windy.