By PETER DOUGLAS
MOUNT Lilydale Mercy College and Lilydale Primary School students were treated to a good old-fashioned fly-over on Thursday, 17 March.
A former Mercy College student and now Royal Australian Air Force pilot, who cannot be named for security reasons, blasted an F/A 18 Hornet over the college grounds for the delighted students
But the pilot’s flying skills represent much more than just a show, according to Year 11 Co-ordinator, Steve Palmer.
Mr Palmer said it was a fine example of persistence.
He said the RAAF pilot had studied for two years at RMIT but failed to finish.
After a year out in the workforce, he decided to have another go at his dream and had been rewarded.
“It’s great to see a former Collegian back out here and showing others their story,” he said.
“I do remember him well, by no means was he an outstanding student.
“But to go on and achieve what he has is incredible.”
The RAAF pilot has returned to the school previously to speak with Year 11 students.
He will also soon take a select group of students to Tullamarine, where he will educate them about careers in aviation.
Mr Palmer said the pilot still felt a connection to the college.
“He has fond memories of Mount Lilydale,” he said.
“What better way to come back than in an F/A-18 Hornet fighter.”
The pilot’s mother, who was present at the fly-over, said his family were extremely proud of his achievements.
They acknowledged he wasn’t always the greatest student academically, but worked hard to achieve his dreams.
