These newsletters aim to share updates, learnings, and guidance about our current (and future!) service deliveries. If you wish to subscribe, please email uav@surflifesaving.com.au

Proficiency Check System

As in previous years, a mandatory proficiency check system for the upcoming seasons. However, this season, there will be a practical check added which was previously optional.

The check will involve:

  • A short online theory component;
  • A face to face practical flying session (run by UAV Supervisors, Branch UAV Coordinators, and UAV Instructors, with paid staff and members invited to attend the same sessions).

We hope the check will assist members and staff alike in refreshing their theoretical understanding, knowledge of SOPs, manual flight handling and offer an opportunity for some face to face Q and A. There may even be a team BBQ following the session and a chance to meet your fellow Pilots.

The due date to complete both theory and practical components will be end of December 2022, after which you will be unable to utilise SLSNSW UAVs until this is complete.

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Surfing NSW and Surfing Australia Event Safety Provision

To date, this calendar year, AUAVS has delivered 10 surfing events for Surfing NSW and Surfing Australia, with 12 more events scheduled for the rest of the calendar year. This has equated to 72 days of work completed, as well as countless hours of preparation, training, equipment maintenance, and post event reporting.

Similar to safety provision at SLSNSW events, surfing event provision is particularly demanding as it involves a UAV being in the air for the entirety of the event, continuously scanning for marine wildlife and also able to be tasked for a missing person.

FAQ: How are UAV Pilots selected for this work?
A: UAV Supervisors are the closest link to the UAV Pilots, so in most cases, they select high-performing UAV Pilots from the relevent area and contact them about availability and extra training to be involved.

FAQ: What does a high-performing UAV Pilot look like?
A: A friendly engagement with all those involved in the AUAVS programs, good communication skills, prompt replies to Teams messages, emails, phone calls, and texts. A careful attitude when completing AVCRM, and high work ethic towards carrying out DPI flights. A friendly manner when collaborating with volunteer UAV Pilots and Operators, and also with SLSC and Branch members. One of the other ways UAV Supervisors check performance is by viewing your AVCRM flight records – so always make sure to sync your flights!

2022 Australian Aviation Awards

The Australian UAV Service (AUAVS) and Sheldon Finn (UAV Supervisor – HUN/CC) have been selected as finalists in the 2022 Australian Aviation Awards.

These awards are an exciting new nationwide recognition program that showcases the outstanding individuals and businesses positively shaping the growth and development of Australia’s aviation industry. The fact that we have had a staff member and our business unit selected as finalists from across Australia is something we as an organisation are very proud of and is a reflection of the standing we hold in the industry to date.

The awards night is to be held at The Star on Thursday 1st September 2022 and we look forward to sharing how the night progresses.

case study

Youth UAV Pilots Case Study

At the recent SLSNSW State Conference, there was a session hosted by an organisation called ‘Youth Insights’ who offer youth focused research about what young people want from organisations and how they make decisions.  As part of their research, they wanted to talk to some of our young members involved in UAVs (possibly under 25 years) to see what they like about their role and if they feel satisfaction being part of a team. AUAVS provided access to a couple of our youth UAV Pilots, who provided some anonymous information on what it’s like to be a part of AUAVS as a youth.

Some of the quotes were:
  • “I was taught many useful skills, developing a strong understanding of professional UAV operations. The UAV Program also provides valuabe skills and certifications for people seeking future careers in STEM.”
  • “I am treated with respect and encouraged to do my best. I feel respected and valued for what I bring to the Service. It has made me more confident in meeting other people.”
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