When Nick Wilson received the opportunity to return “home”, the CareFlight senior base pilot soared at the chance.
In fact, after growing up in the Hunter, and with the aeromedical service expanding its operations at Newcastle Airport, it was an easy decision to make.
The rapid response organisation now houses a permanently-based turbo-prop aircraft and jet at Williamtown to enhance its capability of providing lifesaving transport assistance.
And, the aviator tied to the CareFlight Patient Transport Service (PTS) wanted to be a part of the new era.
“I’ve always enjoyed the lifestyle and community in the region,” Mr Wilson said.
“So, it was a no-brainer [to come back] for the next chapter in my career.”
He joined the charity in 2018, initially starting as a fixed wing airman working from the organisation’s base in Bankstown.
Since then, Mr Wilson’s clocked more than 6,000 flying hours with 5,500 of these as the pilot in command.
That’s earned the respect of his peers, while the senior team has continuously encouraged his development.
“Nick was identified as a talented pilot with great potential,” head of flying operations chief pilot HOTC Iain Percival said.
“Since joining CareFlight, he has gone from strength-to-strength and proven himself as an invaluable member of our crew.
“In addition to his role as a senior base pilot, Nick also took on responsibilities as a supervisory pilot, assisting in the training of newcomers to CareFlight.”
But, after seven years, Mr Wilson was keen to tackle another challenge.
Hence, the relocation to Newcastle.
The move will provide him the prospect of being trained to pilot the B400 Beechjet-Nextant and take on a role as First Officer with the potential to become a Captain for the aircraft.
“It gives me great pleasure to be working in the area I grew up in,” he said.
“And, with my parents hailing from the New England, being able to help these two regions is highly-rewarding.
“Flying into the airport or over the towns where I spent time always brings a smile to my face, even though I might be flying there daily or have done so thousands of times before.”
For more community stories:
- ‘Amazing’ response as Sleapy’s Gala Ball raises $121,000
- Tocal College recognises future agriculture leaders
- Local radio icon Mike Kennedy marks 45 years on air
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
