After growing up in the Mareeba in North Queensland, Olivia is as a mustering helicopter pilot now based in WA’s Kimberley region and is working towards completing her sling rating over the coming year.

“Slinging or long lining is common practice during natural disasters such as foods or bush fires, which impact remote regions each season. Slinging is also used in day-to-day operations servicing remote communities and outback towns. I would be able to use this rating and skillset almost immediately as I continue to finesse my skills as an outback pilot.” Miss Anderson said.

Olivia has been recognised for her 100% safety record, her commitment to outback aviation and her pursuit and support of the opportunities for air work pilots within the NT and Kimberley region.

Connellan Airways Trust Chair, Mrs Liz Bird, commented on Miss Anderson’s dedication to her training and living and working in the bush. “Olivia has demonstrated excellent aviation ethics and competency and is an example for other outback pilots striving to upskill within the industry.”

“The Roger Connellan Award supports aviation development for rural and remote people, recognising that bush pilots are vital to enhancing the capacity of remote places. It is important that we support these skills to retain them in rural and remote areas” Mrs Bird said.

The Award was established in 2017 in memory of Roger Connellan who was a pilot with Connellan Airways. Roger rose to Chief Check and Training Captain. He was a highly decorated and regarded aviator who also helped establish the Alice Springs Aero Club in 1964. This success brought aviation training to the outback. The Award aims to give the opportunity, by provision of financial support to people living in Outback Australia for professional development in an aviation related field excluding initial licensing.

Connellan Airways Trust offers several grant and scholarship opportunities for outback people. This Award is one of two exceptional Awards that honours the foundations of the Trust through the Connellan Airways airline. Since establishment of the Connellan Airways Trust in 1981, it has been able to provide more than $5 million to residents across Outback Australia, supporting the advancement of outback skills and capabilities.