This year, RAAFA launched a new initiative to support young people pursuing their passion for aviation — the RAAFA Higher Flyer Award. Introduced by former Board Member Charles Page and supported by RAAFA Chief Customer and Community Officer Aaron Crowther, the award acknowledges high school students who have shown exceptional dedication in their aviation studies.
Five WA schools with specialist aviation programs were invited to take part: Greenwood College, Kent Street Senior High School, Melville Senior High School, Morley Senior High School and Trinity College. Each school nominated one standout student, with all recipients receiving a $500 contribution toward flying lessons or further education.
Education Specialist Remie Paulik coordinated the program and attended two of the schools’ graduation ceremonies to present the awards. At Greenwood College’s ceremony at UWA, the award was presented to Ayden Hackshaw, a top aviation student hoping to pursue a career in the Air Force. At Kent Street Senior High School’s ceremony at Curtin University, Eva McAllister accepted the award — one of five honours she received that evening.
“We are proud to celebrate these remarkable students and their achievements,” says Remie. “It was a privilege to meet these future aviators, their passion for aviation and determination to succeed are truly inspiring.”
Teachers described all five nominees as dedicated, motivated and consistently striving for excellence in their aviation studies:
- Eva Mcallister, Kent Street Senior High School (Year 12)
- Edward Ryan, Trinity College (Year 11)
- Cameron J. Stolk, Morley Senior High School (Year 11)
- Ayden Hackshaw, Greenwood College (Year 12)
- Rafael Bouzada, Melville Senior High School (Year 10)
RAAFA congratulates all five Higher Flyer Award recipients. Their commitment and passion reflect a bright future for aviation, and we look forward to seeing where their journeys take them.