A Chinese coal carrier in the Great Barrier Reef was off course and in a restricted zone, 15 nautical miles outside the shipping lane, when it ran aground. The 230 bulk coal carrier Sheng Neng 1 ran aground on the reef about 70km east of Great Keppel Island on 3 April 2010.
The vessel, which was carrying about 65,000 tonnes of coal from Gladstone, had 950 tonnes of oil on board. The vessel had hit the reef at full speed.
Premier of Queensland Anna Bligh said, specialised crews could take "several weeks" to salvage the ship once it was able to be moved.
Since the incident, Fergus Ponder (Head of Civilian School) has been flying with the team from Maritime Safety Queensland in the Agusta 109E. Fergus is still flying there.
15 April 2010
ty canfield living his dream
After making his first contact with Becker Helicopters back in August 2008 it took 27 year old Ty Canfield just a few months to prepare himself for the biggest challenge of his life.
Ty, from Capalaba, began his CPLH training at Beckers on 12 January 2009. The biggest challenge for him was the arduous theory exams but with guidance from his theory instructor, James Orrom and his determination to study a minimum of 3 hours a night he successfully passed his 7 subjects. 
Ty, from Capalaba, began his CPLH training at Beckers on 12 January 2009. The biggest challenge for him was the arduous theory exams but with guidance from his theory instructor, James Orrom and his determination to study a minimum of 3 hours a night he successfully passed his 7 subjects. Flying was much more fun, still a lot of hard work but it was better than theory. Looking back Ty says his biggest achievement was his first solo flight followed closely by the words from his CPLH testing officer and Chief Pilot, Mike Becker “Congratulations Ty, you’ve passed mate!”
Since gaining his licence in June 2009 Ty did what most other newbies to the commercial world of helicopters did and contacted all the operators. Whilst visiting ABC Heli, Coolangatta Airport, Ty offered his services for free, working unpaid 2 days a week. Yes, it included sweeping the hanger floors! In mid July 2009 Ty was offered a paid position for 2 days a week. He was happy to do this. His commitment to the company proved fruitful and a full time pilot position was offered to him 2 months later.
Ty is now the Base Manager at ABC Heli, working 5 days a week out of Tangalooma. Another pilot works with him 2 days a week. Since January 2009 Ty has logged a total of 300 hours.
What does he like about ABC Heli? The great people and the view from the office (Tangalooma from 1000 feet) is spectacular. He is living his dream.
Subscribe to:
Posts
