Originally Posted by
Jan Olieslagers
It seems clear that "Aust", wherever that may be, is (or at least "was") not a good place to (learn to) be a private pilot. How sad to have to live there ;( Could you get over it?
I also learnt to fly in Australia in the mid-60s, at Geelong, and fondly recall all of my instructors especially the CFI, Aub Coote, who later taught me aerobatics. I did some flying with Roy Goon when he was at the Royal Victorian Aero Club (RVAC), top guy as were other instructors I knew there. Every time I entered RVAC over the years until earlier this year I'd either go to the counter where Helen or one of the others would look after me promptly OR I would sit down/stand around waiting for the person expecting me. I understand the problem as I have been ignored at shop counters on too many occasions - I never return.
Of course, I have encountered quite a few instructors over the years that I would never recommend to anyone. A small number I would classify as "horrible", unfortunately some are still around, occasionally changing flight schools - I know of a few examples where they have been told to move on. I advise potential students to "interview" instructors before choosing a school to learn at and they should get to choose the instructor.