The Bunbury Aero Club, located in the Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup, is a sports club that offers a range of aviation services to its members and the public. Established in 1963, it is one of the oldest aero clubs in Western Australia. As a not-for-profit community-based organisation, the club is dedicated to promoting and encouraging all aspects of aviation and providing the best possible service and facilities for the community to enjoy.
The club offers flight training for both recreational and career pilots of all ages. They provide well-structured programmes that can be tailored to meet individual needs, with lessons scheduled to accommodate availability. The training courses include a range of ratings and endorsements for beginners as well as experienced pilots. The club also offers the opportunity to hire one of their aircraft for members and visitors, as well as charter flights and scenic flights in the beautiful 'South West' region.
The Bunbury Aero Club has a team of experienced and qualified staff to support their operations. Alex Karatamoglou serves as the Head of Flying Operations and Grade 1 Flight Instructor, while Catherine Forknall is the Head of Operations and also a Grade 1 Flight Instructor. Steve Goodrick is the Deputy Head of Operations and Grade 1 Flight Instructor, and Vince Zampogna is a Grade 2 Flying Instructor. Ronan Kelly is a Grade 3 Flying Instructor, and Rebecca Jones is the Office Coordinator and Accounts Manager.
For those interested in hiring an aircraft, the Bunbury Aero Club offers both hourly and weekend rates. They have a range of aircraft available to choose from, and their friendly team is ready to assist in organising flights to popular destinations like Rottnest Island, Albany, and Margaret River. Becoming a member of the club offers discounted private hire rates on all aircraft, and instructors are available to provide support and guidance to those with low hours or limited experience.
If you want to get in touch with the Bunbury Aero Club, they can be contacted at their rear car park location at Bunbury Airport, off South West Highway in Bunbury. Postal correspondence can be sent to PO Box 5120, Bunbury 6231. Their contact number is (08) 9725 4377, and their opening hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday to Sunday. Please note that they are closed on New Year's Day.