[Peetwo]

Well done RAAA – again.  Higgins and Davis once more meeting their ‘obligations’ under the ASRR. They provided an excellent venue, acres of ‘professional’, interested, invested people and wheeled in the front line from the government agencies. IMO, it will be through the RAAA that ‘meaningful’ change will come; whether or not that change be too little – too late is at a finely balanced point. I think all concerned can agree that there must be changes and the ASRR is the best, most logical starting point to begin that process.

Carmody continues to shape well, I like the notion that he is prepared to be ‘accountable’; most refreshing. No one at the weekend gab-fest expects miracles from day one of his tenure, but I believe one of the most important ‘jobs’ a DAS has is to ‘set the tone’. From the top downwards flows the ‘tone’; we have seen this before. If Carmody ‘firmly and fairly’ sets the CASA drones on the right path – through example – there is a fighting chance things may improve. Trust is an essential element and regaining that trust a huge task. Respect and regaining that respect is a second mammoth task for ‘Wingnut’. However, the ‘Carmody’ feed back from the RAAA gala is positive and hope, as they say, springs eternal.

It is a strange event; lots of handshaking and smiles, everyone on their best behaviour – well nearly everyone; bonhomie by the bucket full, as it should be. But it pays to remember that behind the masks are the shrewd, sharp eyes; tough minds and vested interests in ensuring that the aviation industry continues. Twice around the dance floor, a good dinner, a few beers and a new frock does not ensure a night in paradise, it is however a good place to start.

Events like the RAAA conferences don’t’ come in a packet; there is a mile of hard work to be done, the cast and crew behind the scenes deserve a mention and a vote of thanks. Well done all concerned, well done indeed.

Update: Via Agent 86 off the Yaffa's Avbiz :

Last week's Regional Aviation Association of Australia national conference was consistent with what we've come to expect from the organisation's major annual event - robust debate, industry figures of all types speaking their minds and a renewed understanding that most of the people in our industry are here because they have a genuine passion for aviation.


Chairman Jim Davis didn't pull any punches in his opening address, calling on CASA to "hit the reset button". In turn, new acting CASA CEO Shane Carmody reiterated his intention to pursue fair and consultative regulation, but suggested industry doesn't always get it right either. You'll be able to read more when the November December issue of Aviation Business, coming together now, hits the streets.


Read more at http://www.aviationbusiness.com.au/opini...6fEg6SU.99

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