Ingo Renner training a group of young people to fly a vintage glider, the Kookaburra ES52.
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Australia’s first-ever Junior Aviators’ Day for Indigenous students will be held this month, organised by the Southern Riverina Gliding Club in Tocumwal.
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The event will offer young people a rare opportunity to explore real pathways into aviation.
The event will be held at the Tocumwal Aerodrome Terminal Building on Thursday, May 14, with morning tea and a barbecue lunch available for all participants.
Southern Riverina Gliding Club chief flying instructor Judy Renner said the club was grateful to the Murray Border Flying Club, Tocumwal Aviation Museum and the Victorian Soaring Association for supporting the event.
“This groundbreaking initiative has invited 17- to 18-year-old Indigenous students to discover the many ways they can become involved in aviation — from recreational gliding to professional flying careers,” she said.
“The program aims to open doors in an industry where Indigenous participation has historically been low, aligning with broader government efforts to expand employment opportunities and representation across all sectors.”
Ingo Renner after landing his Discus glider at sunset.
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During the program students will experience short information sessions on maintenance, the principles of flight and the various forms of aviation they can be involved in, such as ballooning, hang gliding and modelling.
They will also receive information on pathways and training options that can lead to a career in aviation.
Ms Renner said the Victorian Soaring Association’s flight simulator had been brought in especially for the event and students would also receive a guided tour of the Tocumwal Aviation Museum, followed by a film.
“The Southern Riverina Gliding Club is a small but friendly group of volunteers who are hoping to share the world of aviation with as many people as possible, so they can also experience the freedom of flight,” she said.
“This is the first event of its kind in Australia, and we hope it will inspire more young people, especially those who have never had access to aviation, to explore new opportunities and discover what is possible.”
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