Flying in Australia

[hsvrox]

Hey everyone!

I am currently living in New Zealand, working part time flying and have recently converted to an Ozzy license. I'm planning on crossing the ditch and having a look around for work over there to expand my horizons.

Does anyone have any tips as to where to start looking for work? I'll do anything, load planes, fuel planes, clean planes and fly planes to get back into it.

I have 800 TT mostly in a C185 and PA32.

Thanks in advance!

[tlf]

With so many unemployed AUSTRALIAN pilots in Australia, I'm sure you'll be most welcome.

[AerocatS2A]

Yeah, 'cause Australian pilots never go overseas for a job .

[Vee Won Kutt]

Don't let TLF worry you mate - come on over, you would be very welcome I'm sure. I have worked with a couple of Kiwis in my time in the bush, both were great blokes. I know a few Aussies that headed your way too. We need to look after each other down this end of the world anyway.
I reckon with that sort of time you will have little problem finding a job (probably C206/C210???). I would head North though ie North QLD, NT, Kimberley.
It's been a while since I've done the GA thing - so others may have some better advice.
Good luck mate!

[hsvrox]

Cheers Vee Won Kutt much appreciated!

What about in the Brisbane area? I have family friends over there for someone to stay with, is there much happening around there?

[Vee Won Kutt]

What about in the Brisbane area?

Sorry mate - I don't know. It would probably help if you knew someone or if you had done your initial training there. However I wouldn't waste too much time looking around the bigger cities. If you can't find something there don't hang around - The further you get away the better I'd reckon. With your sort of hours I would think you would be ok out in the bush. Target a Cessna operator that also has twin engine aircraft. The 800 odd hours will really only get you onto a single, and since it's more than the magic '500' you should satisfy their requirements quite easily (especially if you have a lot of C185 time). After you have proved yourself and done your 'time' they should give you a go on the twin.

It's probably still not easy to land a job here. However I think it won't be too hard either. In recent months I have even seen GA operators advertising for CPL pilots!! I have rarely seen that before.

For info the Friday 'Australian' newspaper has an Aviation section (at the back of the biz section) - check it out. You may even be able to read it on the NET???

Good luck

[Roger Copy Ta]

Brisbane has instructor vacancies as well as plenty of skydiving outfits but you won't get more than that without some serious multi time (or an excellent contact).
With a good attitude you'll be sweet as in Darwin, just be prepared to give it a few months... goodluck mate

[AerocatS2A]

Try Broome, Kununurra, or Darwin. Get here in the wet season (summer) and be prepared to work in a non-aviation job for a while. Go out to the operators and get to know them. Hopefully you'll then be in a good position to pick up some flying work for the winter which is when the tourists arrive.