SAFA Skysailor Magazine

5 AUTUMN 2026 | March-April-May SKY SAILOR A new Board, fresh energy I am delighted to announce that SAFA now has a new Board in place following last year’s election, and I am genuinely excited by the mix of experience, passion, and fresh perspective that returning and new directors bring to the table. To those returning board members who have continued their service: Thank you for your steadfast commitment. Your institutional knowledge and continuity are invaluable. To our new Board members: Welcome. You have stepped into roles that carry real responsibility for the wellbeing of thousands of pilots across Australia, and you have done so willingly. That says a great deal about your character and your love of this sport. I look forward to working alongside each of you as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. The Board has hit the ground running, and there are a number of matters already underway I look forward to sharing more detail on in the coming year. Our commit- ment remains what it has always been: to grow and strengthen sports aviation in Australia, to advocate for our members, and to ensure that the all disciplines under the SAFA umbrella continue to thrive. Recognising our SAFA staff I want to thank our exceptional full-time staff at SAFA for everything they do in support of our members every single day. The work of our staff is often unseen but absolutely essential. They answer your calls and emails. They process mem- berships, certificates, and endorsements. They liaise with regulators, coordinate with clubs, and keep the administrative backbone of this organisation running smoothly. They do so with professionalism, dedication, and a genuine care for the sport and the people who practise it. Running a national sporting body is no small undertaking, and the demands placed on our team are considerable. Yet time and again, our staff rise to the occasion. Often going well beyond what is required of them to ensure our members are supported. Please join me in express- ing sincere and heartfelt thanks to each and every one of them. If you have had a positive experience with our team, I encourage you to let them know. A kind word goes a long way, and the staff at SAFA headquarters deserve our appreciation. Until next time, fly safe.