My first logbook shows that Ron East did my PPL test in January 1964.
Then in January 1966, the CPL test, part of which I had forgotten until I dug out the moth eaten logbook. It included a 35 minute night flying test on one evening, followed by a 4 hour 35 minute cross country exercise the next day.
I do remember well that the cross country started with him putting the hood on me before take off, then issuing several heading changes during the first half hour or so. Then the hood was removed and I was required to locate myself on the chart. A refuel stop was closely watched to make sure I attached the grounding wires before and did a water check after.
The test culminated back at Perth with the hood going back on and Ron giving me a mock GCA to touch down.
When we got back, a prospective employer was waiting on the fence to see if I had passed. To which Ron replied something to the effect that the CPL would be in the mail on Monday. Imagine that service these days!
All a bit unconventional, but what a wonderful memory.
Ron, may you have tailwinds and cavok forever.