Pilots of Australia - time to unite - Meeting Aug 23

[Neptunus Rex]

Perception

In the past 44 years, not one life has been lost on any Australian Regular Public Transport operation. Australia is rated Category 1 in FAA's International Aviation Assessment Program. As a nation, we hold a proud Flight Safety record that is second to none.
Having flown with many pilots and flight engineers from many different countries, I can say that Australians are right up there amongst the most professional I know.
However, we can't help but display a 'larrikin' streak at times. In most cases it is just a bit of misplaced modesty, not wanting to be seen to be standing out from the crowd. Well, we bloody do stand out from the crowd! We are simply the best, and that is what our passengers want to hear.
Unfortunately, airline pilots are still perceived as well-paid silvertails, and management play to that idea. The only way to win the battle against overseas based pilots taking Australian jobs is to push our professionalism and safety record. Stop the threatened influx first, then address the CoS issues with airline management.
Perception is everything. Choose some pilots who look the part, and can speak convincingly, to go in front of the inevitable TV cameras after the meeting. Have them prepare and rehearse their replies. Keep emotional responses (and the rest of the throng) out of the picture. Invest in a good PR company and fight fire with fire.
Don't just wait and react, plan ahead to keep the bastards honest.