Callum S - 1179882

A reminder that applications close for Director, Operations this weekend.

It's with great pleasure that I announce Cam Tyson has been appointed as Director, ATC Training. Cam has been a member of the VATPAC and VATNZ training teams over the past 3 years, holding roles as Mentor, Instructor and most recently, Deputy Director, ATC Administration. Throughout his time in ATC Training, he's helped many students achieve their ratings and has always been committed to sharing his knowledge and passion of ATC. Cam has great ambitions for the department which I'm sure he'll discuss in the near future. Daniel Martin is leaving the training department and VATPAC Board due to real world commitments. I'd like to take a moment to thank Daniel, on behalf of the VATPAC Board and community, for all of his hard work. Without the hundreds of hours he dedicated to ensuring all members got quick responses to emails, ensuring all the administrative documentation was filed correctly and for creating and maintaining such a fantastic team of staff, the ATC Training Department would not be as successful as it is now. Welcome to the team Cam!

Hi All, Please see the following announcement from the VATSIM Board of Governors. On Monday July 15,2019 at 00:00z an updated version of the VATSIM Code of Conduct will come into effect. This update has been under development for several months. The updates modernize the Code of Conduct to reflect the many years of change on the network. The general intent remains unchanged - members are expected behave in a manner that is respectful and tolerant of others while enjoying their time on VATSIM. The New Code of Conduct can be found at http://vats.im/coc While many of the items in the Code of Conduct have been tweaked or reworded for clarity, most of them are rules that you already know and abide by. Every member should read though the new code of conduct as everyone will be held to it, but here are some of the biggest changes. Members are required to register for VATSIM using their full real names, but now may connect to VATSIM using their full real name, a common shortening of their real name, their given name only, or their VATSIM Certificate ID number VATSIM Members may stream content utilizing VATSIM and persons who intentionally disrupt a stream are subject to immediate suspension. Pilots will be required to be able to comply with hold short instructions, and flying a speed, altitude and heading assigned by Air Traffic Controllers A specific set of restricted callsigns as well as limitations on recreating flights or organizing events recognizing real world disasters or tragedies While Air Traffic Control positions are generally “first come, first served;” a division may set policy for booking a position ahead of time within reasonable limits Please visit the VATSIM General Discussion Forums to ask any questions you might have about any part of the new Code of Conduct. Thank you for your continued participation in VATSIM and we look forward to many more improvements within the coming months! Best Regards, VATSIM’s Board of Governors

Hi All, VATPAC recently held the Q2 Board Meeting on Sunday 7th July. The minutes are now available for review via the VATPAC website here. The Divisional Quarterly report has also been compiled and is available via the same page on the VATPAC website. Thanks for a great quarter everyone! Everyone including pilots, controllers and staff have contributed greatly to the Division over the past 3 months and I look forward to seeing further growth over the next Quarter See you in the skies!

Applications are now invited from suitably experienced members of the VATPAC division for the position of VATPAC Director, Operations (VATPAC2). Responsible to: VATPAC Director, Division Direct Reports: Deputy Director, Operations AIS Officer AIS Officer, Pacific Area Virtual Airlines Liaison Officer Operations Advisors Duties: Attends periodic VATPAC Board meetings to report on pilot-related issues to act as a liaison between pilots and the VATPAC Board bringing pilot and controller views, complaints, ideas, and proposals to the appropriate Division and Board meetings in order to consistently improve the effectiveness of communications, suitability of new procedures, and overall satisfaction of pilots with ATS provided Assists the Events Director where required in the coordination of Events, Fly-Ins and Group flights in the VATPAC airspace Reports quarterly on activity within the division Liaises with Virtual Airlines for anything they may need from the Division (events, contact information) Maintains an online register of all VATPAC affiliated Virtual Airlines Acts as the Division's Point-of-contact for VATSIM's main VA Coordinator Stay abreast of real world issues which may involve VATPAC airspace Coordinates the personnel and activities of the VATPAC AIS Team Monitors VATPAC policy change proposals as they affect pilots Liaises closely with the Director, ATC Training on operational matters affecting pilots and controllers Stays abreast of current issues and contributes to discussions and dissemination of information within the VATPAC and VATSIM community as they affect pilots Monitor facilities and accuracy of the ATC Clients to the TAAATS specification. Maintains an online presence of 10-15 hours per month on the VATSIM Network Essential Criteria: Consistently active participation in the greater VATPAC community for the last 2 years Be a member of good standing in VATSIM for more than one year at the time of application Have a good rapport with VATSIM pilots and maintain this rapport throughout their tenure Be rated on VATSIM to no less than Enroute Controller Level (C1) Have good knowledge of the VATSIM Code of Conduct and Code of Regulations Have proven ability in the management of a small group of people Be able to work well within a voluntary organisation Have proven ability with the use of Flight Simulation, VATSIM Approved Pilot and ATC Client Software How to Apply: Members interested in being considered for the role should apply by outlining their experience and suitability, addressing each of the essential criteria listed above. Applications should be sent via email to director(at)vatpac.org APPLICATIONS IN STRICTEST CONFIDENCE CLOSE AT 23:59 hours AEST on Sunday 28th July 2019.

A reminder that applications for this position close this weekend. If you're interested in stepping up to help your Division, apply now!

Applications are now invited from suitably experienced members of the VATPAC Division for the position of VATPAC Director, ATC Training (VATPAC3). Reports to: VATPAC Director, Division Direct Reports: Deputy Director, ATC Administration Deputy Director, ATC Standards ATC Instructors ATC Mentors Duties: Responsible for delivering an efficient and effective ATC training program that meets VATSIM policies Attend periodic VATPAC Board meetings to report on training activities and issues and to stay abreast of issues which may involve VATPAC Training Maintains training pages on the VATPAC Website and VATPAC Moodle Training System Ensure that ATC training programs are planned, conducted, assessed, and improved on a continuous basis Report quarterly on ATC Training activity and development within the division Establish periodic VATPAC Training Department meetings, reports and newsletters where required Recruit, train and retain mentors and instructors who deliver the training and assessment of controllers. Considers and raises complaints, ideas and proposals to the Board in order to consistently improve the effectiveness of VATPAC Monitor the performance and activity of instructors and mentors Maintain an online presence of 10-15 hours per month on the VATSIM Network Essential Criteria: Active participation in the greater VATPAC community for the past 12 months. Be a member of good standing in VATSIM for more than one year at the time of application Be rated on VATSIM to no less than an Enroute Controller level (C1) Have demonstrated strong understanding and VATSIM experience in all types of ATC positions Have demonstrated good knowledge of the VATSIM Code of Conduct , Code of Regulations and Global Rating Policy (GRP) Have proven ability in the management of a small group of people Demonstrated ability to work well within a voluntary organisation Have proven ability with the use of VATSIM Approved Controller Client Software Have experience on an ATC Training Team within VATSIM (Preferable) Understand and support the concepts and principles of competency based training and assessment Have some experience in teaching, instructing, or consistently helping others to achieve their goals (in any level and in area of knowledge) Have an attitude that will inspire others to teach and to learn, while creating a friendly environment for the learning process to take place How to Apply: Members interested in being considered for the role should apply by outlining their experience and suitability, addressing each of the essential criteria listed above. Applications that do not address each of the criteria will not be considered. Applications should be sent via email to director (at) vatpac.org APPLICATIONS IN STRICTEST CONFIDENCE CLOSE AT 23:59 hours AEST on Sunday 30th June, 2019.

Hello Everyone, Firstly, I would like to take the time to thank David Zhong who has maintained a stable community for our members to enjoy. Without his continued efforts I’m sure the division and the community would not be in the place it is today. Today David and I met to discuss current affairs of VATPAC and what current projects are underway after which I was given the responsibility of Division Director. As an introduction to those of you who don’t not know me, my name is Callum Strawbridge. I’ve worked in the Aviation industry for over 5 years and have been involved in Aviation far longer. My VATSIM Journey began in January 2011 where I’ve held positions within VATSIM Australia Pacific (ATC Training, Operations & Events), VATSIM South East Asia (Training) and VATSIM (Social Media). In the preceding years that followed my appointment, the VATPAC community has been subjected to some difficult times. With this in mind came my motive to apply for the Director Of Division position as I have first hand experience and knowledge on the events which have occurred and from that have a vision in mind to ensure the future growth and stability of the division. I want you to know that I have been through all of the recent events with you, I understand what went wrong, what didn’t work and what we can do better. It’s important to note though that I cannot achieve this overnight and cannot achieve it alone. The decision to apply for Director Of Division is something that I and the people who applied as well as the selection committee doesn’t take lightly and I would personally like to thank all who applied and those who took the time to Interview and select. So, What is going to happen from here? As I mentioned above, as a community, we have been through some turbulent times over the past few years. This has lead to plenty of questions about the leadership of VATPAC, VATOCE and even VATSIM. I have been involved in a lot of these events and can safely say, they are over. I have full confidence in the team at VATSIM and VATSIM Oceania, having seen many of the changes happening behind the scenes. I am also excited to work with Alan and the VATPAC Board to bring the division back to the friendly, helpful, energetic and professional community it used to be. I will be working with the VATPAC Board to ensure each department has a plan for the next 12 months. This will ensure we stay on target to give the community the best service we can. We will be filling the recently announced resignations as quickly as possible to ensure each department has strong leadership. If you are interested in applying for these positions, once they open, please put your hand up. I would love to see some people putting their hands up who haven’t before or perhaps people who used to hold roles at VATPAC. I also believe one of the best things we can do to show you that we care is being more transparent. I would like to start by bringing back the VATPAC Newsletter. Once a month, we will publish the newsletter to the mailing list (available on the VATPAC Homepage) and forums which will include an update on what your Divisional team is working on. It is also an opportunity for us to get out information and changes from VATSIM and VATSIM Oceania in a more interactive format. I will be working with the VATPAC Board and will update you with more information on the newsletter in the future. In the next couple of months, we will also be publishing a survey for all previous, current and potential future members. The goal of this survey will be to create a plan for the future that is in touch with the community. I'll publish further information on the survey soon and hope we can get as many responses as possible from the membership, the results of which will be published. Where do I see the community? I've changed quite a lot over the years. I started out with a pretty big ego (a common trait). I’m not going to deny I didn’t cause some trouble in my early days but having grown up, I have changed into the easy going, laid back person I am today. I live life as it comes and treat everyone equally. I want to see this community return to the way it was when I started, supportive and forgiving. I feel there is a word that keeps popping into my mind that sums up how I believe the VATPAC community should be. Mateship. Defined: “Mateship is an Australian cultural idiom that embodies equality, loyalty and friendship.” I know that we have lots of people in the community of different ages, backgrounds, languages and maturity levels. It costs nothing to be kind to everyone. Something that popped into my head while on holiday (I’m currently in Hawaii) was how you can go anywhere around the world, and spot an Aussie. You can say G’day, have a chat, and instantly, that sense of mateship is there. I would love for VATPAC to get back to a place where that is the case. That relies on everyone working together, being friendly, offering to share knowledge and help each other out. Finally, I know everyone says this, but I genuinely want you to know. My door will always be open for everyone, regardless of who you are. I look forward to working with each and every person of this community we love to make VATPAC the great place it once was, again. Sincerely, Callum

Congratulations to Ashley Carlson who has successfully completed the Enroute Controller course. Remember, more airspace comes with greater responsibilities

Congratulations to the latest candidate of the Enroute Controller course, Ethan Barr. He'll have a lot more airspace to hassle you in so be kind!

Congratulations to VATPAC's latest Tower Controller - Jordan!

Congratulations to Blair Shaddock who has just become the latest graduate of the C1 course! Coming soon to an enroute sector near you!

Congratulations to Sam Litsas who has just received his early Christmas Present of an Enroute Controller (C1) rating.

1. INTRODUCTION This NOTAM is detailed in accordance with section 4.1 of the VATPAC Controller Positions and Ratings Policy. This is for the purpose of Panic Stations Launceston & Hobart. 2. RESERVED POSITIONS ML_TWR ML_APP ML_DEP ML-SNO_CTR ML-WON_CTR ML-TAS_CTR LT_TWR HB_TWR HB_GND 3. EFFECTIVE DATE & TIME The above positions will be reserved for use between 0400Z and 0800Z Sunday 19/08/18. 4. CONTACT Callum Strawbridge - Director, Events & Communications E: events(at)vatpac.org 5. NOTICE TO ATC Under section 4.1, controllers must not control this position during the times indicated without prior approval of the listed contacts. 6. CANCELLATION This NOTAM Self Cancels at 2359z 19 AUG 2018.

Congratulations to Sam who has become VATPAC's latest S3 controller. Coming to a TMA near you!

ATC Roster Released! If you are no longer able to attend, please contact [email protected] A.S.A.P so a replacement can be found. Times below are AEST.

https://panic.vatpac.org/ About Panic Stations The idea is devilishly simple. Get as many aircraft as possible to try and arrive at a destination airport, touching down at the same time. It's up to ATC to sort it out and ensure correct procedures and separation standards are adhered to at all times. The first jet and non-jet aircraft to touch down at/after the target time enjoy bragging rights....until the next Panic Stations. Pilots can expect non-standard arrivals, plenty of holding and/or speed restrictions. Controllers can expect to work hard, often in non-standard or non-radar positions. It is an extremely satisfying experience as a controller sitting back after a Panic Stations event having adhered to published standards and procedures at all times. This Panic Stations will be a little different. We're featuring 2 procedural airports! Come along as we shift the focus to Tasmania. With double the chance of winning, where will you be flying? ATC Details Due to the small amount of ATC Positions at Launceston & Hobart, We will also be staffing up Melbourne! ATC Applications are now open through the Panic Stations website and close on Friday 10th August. The following positions are currently planned to be rostered however if demand requires, it is likely that an additional non-standard Launceston or ML-TAS position will be opened on the day to assist with clearance and holding. LT_TWR HB_TWR HB_GND LT_ATIS HB_TWR ML-SNO_CTR ML-WON_CTR ML-TAS_CTR ML_APP ML_TWR Full details, pilot briefing and charts available at https://panic.vatpac.org/

Welcome to the latest VATPAC Iron Mic attempt featuring Cairns. Cairns receives several RPT, charter and GA flights every day from a variety of major and regional cities within Australia and select international destinations. With fantastic scenery by ORBX, it's the perfect location for both GA and Jet traffic so make sure our controllers are working hard. The following positions will be the primary positions: CS_TWR CS_APP BN-TBP_CTR To give us the best chance possible, please logon to the above positions at Cairns prior to occupying others. Remember, There are no reserved positions so if one of the above positions is available, logon! What is Iron Mic? Iron Mic is a weekly competition that VATSIM holds which recognizes a position with the most hours logged on the network. It is broken into 3 categories; TWR, APP and CTR. The position in each category that logs the most online hours over a 7 day period wins the Iron Mic. Iron Mic runs from 0000Z on Monday (1000 AEST) to 2359Z Sunday (0959 Monday AEST). How do we know about our progress? Click on this link (http://fsmine.dhis.org/stats/showstats.cgi) to view all the VATSIM ATC stats for the week. Remember, Our aim is to keep the TWR, APP and CTR positions open as much as possible. Coordinate with other controllers to ensure maximum coverage of the Cairns positions. You can do this on Facebook, Discord or the forums. We have setup a special Iron Mic Coordination text channel on Discord to make it easier to coordinate coverage with your fellow controllers. VATSIM has set out a few rules regarding Iron Mic which can be viewed here https://forums.vatsim.net/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=11100 If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! Good Luck VATPAC!

Congratulations to Sam Hall who recently joined the ranks as VATPAC's latest C1 Controller.