Pilot

Dave Ervin

Chief Pilot

At 47 years of age Dave Ervin has packed a lot of flying time into his selected career that saw him begin this life in the RAAF.

Experienced gained from the RAAF saw him venture into the world of civil aviation and time spent overseas as a member of peace-keeping forces and within Australia from mustering cattle to land surveying.

The move back to Tasmania for a George Town born boy was a welcome one that allowed him to apply his skills to an area that requires motivation, passion and professionalism.

Dave says, “Of all aspects of flying, Search and Rescue in an environment as demanding as Tasmania is up there with skills of the highest level and safety, demanded.”

With a vast coastline, a 200 kilometre offshore coverage and rugged terrain, each flying mission requires meticulous planning to ensure the job is safety compliant and achievable.

On call 24/7, the team of four pilots work a four days on, two days off, roster. The base is manned 8am to 6pm and flight ready in 15 minutes, then on 30 minute standby to respond to any night call-out.

Powered up and ready to fly the Westpac Rescue Helicopter has 2.6 hour endurance and with responses that can require up to an hours’ outward flying time, it is pivotal that back-up fuel sites in key positions are provided and maintained by the Trust around the State.