Nineteen student pilots received their wings and graduated from No. 2 Flying training school, flying PC-21 aircraft at Pearce air base in December for the final course graduation for the year.

The course, which includes pilots from the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal Australian Navy, produces competent junior Australian Defence Force officers capable of flying training aircraft with the skill and confidence necessary to transition to operational aircraft.

Six graduates received awards for their achievements during the course.

Pilot Officer Olivia Downey was awarded the Royal Australian Air Force Association (WA division) trophy for most improved, while Pilot Officer Jordan Curd received the ‘Fit-to-fight’ high performance physical training award.

Pilot Officer Madison Hall received the Returned Services League trophy for demonstrating the highest qualities in leadership.

The Air BP Australia trophy for the graduate with the highest aggregate of academic marks was awarded to Pilot Officer Zachary Harris, while Pilot Officer Nicholas Wardle received the DJ Friedrichs Aerobatics trophy for the highest level of aerobatic skill.

Flight Lieutenant Jesse Versteegen was awarded the Pilatus Aircraft trophy as course dux after he received the SJ Goble Memorial trophy as the most proficient pilot, the G Scutt/E Davey Memorial trophy for most proficient at instrument flying, and the Martin Baker Australia Navigation trophy as the graduate displaying the highest level of navigation skills.

He has been posted to No. 79 squadron to fly the Hawk 127 aircraft at Pearce air base.