2005 Wrap Up

[Rob H - 811428]

Hi Guys,

 

As 2005 draws to a close, on behalf of the VATPAC team I'd like provide a wrap-up for you.

 

This year has been an engaging year for VATPAC and VATSIM. Many changes have taken place at local, regional and global levels showing us just how dynamic our community can be.

 

Technologically we saw the emergence of long awaited software. The old pilot software and all its associated frustrations disappeared overnight with the release of the two new pilot clients. Long awaited products from the commercial sector were also released and all of the pieces of the puzzle have come together to carry us towards higher levels of realism.

 

From an administrative perspective there were also many changes of leadership at Division level with new Director (yours truly), Deputy (Jackson), Aus Airspace (John) and IT (Steve). There have also been significant changes at BoG level including a new President (Richard Jenkins). With so much happening it has resulted in improved communication flow between the three tiers of administration, and this is really heartening and encouraging. The suggestions and frustrations that we discuss collectively at a local level are flowing upstream and being dealt with in a proper manner and this is most pleasing.

 

At a local level, this year, particularly the latter part has been about planning and renewal. A lot has been going on behind the scenes, and we've seen some great new innovations and associations come the forefront including:

 

- Success of Long Haulers Club and the various other great new VA-run social events;

- Improved ATC Training scheduling

- Eestablishment of Training Admin Group;

- Sector file design renewal and

- Establishment of Sector File Staff;

- Advances in Sector file design and updating;

- Establishment Events mailing list

- Implementation of survey to improve feedback.

 

The work behind the scenes continues so that going forward into the new year we can deliver strong solutions to long standing problems as well as provide cool new services and features including:

 

- A NEW website with improved navigation and content;

- Establishment of pilot support community and resources;

- Shared airspace alliances with partner divisions;

- Support of EURoute to provide reliable preferred local flight planning services;

- ATC Training delivery enhancements.

 

Looking forward we are positive and excited at the many different things that are coming up, both locally and abroad and all staff continue to look and listen for ways in which we can make the service more accessible, enjoyable and up to date.

 

We at VATPAC would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

 

Stay safe, and we hope to see you all in 2006.

 

Rob Hooley - Division Director

on behalf of all VATPAC staff.