My user name reflects my decision to turn my back on RAAF and CPL options in the mid-70's, because I was consistently told "there is no future in aviation".
One of those selling me that message retired 30 years later with 28,000 hours from an international long haul career.
There is much that is wrong with GA at present; the regulatory environment and cost structures in particular.
But GA will continue to be an around for as long as there is a commercial need for it. And young people who want to fly will still see it as an option.
In this, it is no different to any other industry. Not every business will thrive and not every aspirant will establish a career.
But I must admit that I was pleased CoodaKid3 chose the RAAF route and proved himself good enough to earn the Wings that were pinned to his chest last week.
It seems the wise men I listened to 40 years ago may have been a trifle pessimistic......and wrong.