Australian Aviation: Sky’s The Limit

To date, we’ve released four episodes jam-packed with insight and information from some of Australia’s top female aviators.

In our inaugural episode, we spoke with Australian Aviation contributor Kirsty Ferguson to learn about the current state of career opportunities as Australia navigates through the post-pandemic environment, and the valuable differences that women bring to this male- dominated workforce.

Episode two saw us speak with pioneering female aviator Deborah Lawrie. Undoubtedly a name you’ve heard before, Deb was Australia’s first female pilot for a major commercial airline, following a years-long battle with Ansett Airlines that made it all the way to the High Court.

She joined us to discuss the details of the case, as well as her early career in aviation, and the barriers that still permeate through the aviation industry to this day for women.

Our third episode featured space historian, YouTuber, TV host, and now, biographical author Amy Shira Teitel, who penned Fighting for Space and tells the story of the two talented pilots vying to become NASA’s first female astronauts, and the Mercury 13.

And we’re nowhere near done. Our episode for August features Nova Systems general manager of operations Kristen Raby. She has decades of experience as an aeronautical engineer and flight test engineer, and has now turned her attention to climbing up the corporate ladder.

In September, you’ll hear our conversation with Amanda Meys, the CSIRO’s chief drone pilot, to learn about the incredible capabilities that drones bring to a wide range of industries, and how to convert your aviation knowledge into drone piloting.

The following month, we sit down with the RAAF’s Roulette Seven Aimee Heal, the second ever female to join the ranks of the Roulettes and only current female member. We learn about her decision to enter the defence force as a young woman, how she rose through the ranks, and how she mentors younger women following in her footsteps.

So, join us on our journey and learn from some of Australia’s biggest female aviation stars, from captains, scientists, historians, advisers and key decision makers, to those fighting for change.

Don’t be afraid to get involved! If you have a topic you’d like us to tackle, or a guest you’d love to see on an episode, send us an email at media@ australianaviation.com.au.