When you picture an aircraft engineer, you might imagine someone who’s been tinkering with engines since childhood. For Isabella, an apprentice engineer with the RFDS, the story began in a music studio.
“I started with a Bachelor of Music in Sydney. I played flute, saxophone, trumpet and I wanted to focus on teaching neurodiverse students and repairing fine instruments,” Isabella said.
But as it did for so many others, the COVID pandemic changed everything for Isabella.
When lockdowns hit and work in the music industry dried up, Isabella returned home to Tasmania.
To make ends meet, Isabella started working at Hobart Airport around university classes.
That job – as a ground handler for commercial airliners – ignited a new passion.
“It was physical work and it was interesting,” Isabella said.
“I realised I loved being outside, moving, solving problems. I got to know the engineers there, and they asked if I’d ever thought about becoming one myself.”
Within a year, Isabella was in Brisbane studying at Aviation Australia and not long after began a double degree in Engineering and Aviation at Griffith University.
When an apprenticeship opportunity with the RFDS came up, Isabella jumped at it.
“I called the number on the ad and said, ‘I don’t live in Alice Springs, but I’m happy to relocate.’” Isabella said.
"I didn’t think I’d get it, but two weeks after accepting the job, I’d packed up my life and was on the road with my dad, heading to Central Australia.”
Just months into the four-year apprenticeship, Isabella is “loving it”.
“The team is amazing. Because it’s a smaller crew, everyone looks out for each other. We all live in or around town and people are always happy to lend a hand, even outside of work.”
The days start with a morning brief: which aircraft are in the hangar; what maintenance is needed, and; who’s handling what.
From replacing brake pads and inspecting wheel assemblies to updating navigation charts – every task plays a part in keeping the fleet flying safely.
“I love pulling things apart, cleaning, inspecting, figuring out how they work, and putting them back together,” Isabella said.
“Being able to do that for these aircraft which help people – that’s an incredible feeling.”
For Isabella, joining the Flying Doctor isn’t just about the machines. It’s about purpose.
“I was surprised by how wide the scope of the RFDS is – not just emergency retrievals, but also preventative health, dental and occupational therapy services,” Isabella said.
“It really brings home how vast Australia is and how vital this work is for remote communities.”
Isabella’s long-term goal is to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) certified in both mechanical and avionics, creating an opportunity to work on even more complex aircraft systems.
One day, it may be part of shaping the future of aviation technology.
“Drones are being developed to collect blood samples or deliver medication to flood-affected areas,” Isabella said.
“That’s so cool – and to be part of that would be amazing. There’s always more to learn, and I love that about this industry.”
Moving to Australia’s Red Centre was a leap, but one Isabella hasn’t regretted.
“It’s not as small as people think! There’s great food, heaps of mountain biking and 4WD tracks, lots of gyms, and such a mix of cultures. Because people come from all over, it’s really diverse and welcoming.”
Isabella’s message to anyone thinking about changing their tune is simple.
“Do it... There’s so much support – from your training organisation, your employer, even government programs. It’s absolutely possible, and it’s so fulfilling.”
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