Ballina is continuing to strengthen its position as one of regional NSW’s leading aviation hubs, with more than 200 school students exploring future careers in the industry at a Northern Rivers aviation expo.

The two-day event, now in its seventh year, was held at a venue in Ballina’s industrial estate and showcased the growing range of career opportunities linked to the aviation sector, which supports the state’s third busiest commercial airport.

This year’s expo featured an inspirational presentation from 16-year-old Byron Wallen, (main image) the youngest pilot to circumnavigate the globe. During his Northern Rivers visit, Byron also addressed students at Ballina Coast High School.

“This sort of thing plays a huge part in helping young kids in general to find different careers by being introduced to aviation,” he said.

“Aviation isn’t just pilots and air traffic controllers — there’s so much more to it that people don’t really think about.”

Exhibitors were on hand to provide information on pilot training, aviation safety and security, as well as career pathways in the Air Force and Army. By far one of the most popular attractions was a pair of Navy helicopter simulators.

Vanessa Perrin, who heads the Department of Education Careers Educational Pathways Program for the Ballina Schools Group, organised the event and said the expo began seven years ago with just 30 students and has grown significantly, with this year recording the highest attendance yet.

“I think getting into the industry has definitely become easier over the years,” she said.

“I can remember in previous years it was really, really difficult — almost impossible — to get into the industry. But I think now there are different opportunities and ways to access a career in aviation.”

After the presentations, students were given special security clearances for a rare airside tour of the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport.

Students were able to inspect the runway and tour the airport’s firefighting facility.

Fifteen-year-old Blake Hogan, a Year 10 student at Xavier College, has his sights firmly set on a future career in aviation.

Blake Hogan

“I’ve been inspired by a lot of the talks that have gone on today. I’d really like to get into piloting, preferably with Qantas, but after looking at all these roles, it’s nice to see the other areas that are available.”

TAFE and other tertiary institutions offer courses including ground operations, cabin crew and remote piloting, through to Bachelor of Aviation programs.

The message from this year’s expo was clear: aviation stakeholders are actively seeking enthusiastic newcomers to join an industry that continues to grow and evolve.