BushCat Kit To Be Assembled At AirVenture, Australia

An Australian teenager with autism has been selected as part of a team of 25 youths who will build a BushCat airplane from a kit at AirVenture Australia later this month.

Corey Loader, 18, is a student at the Ballarat Specialist School, and The Courier newspaper reports that he says aviation is one of his passions.

According to the AirVenture Australia Facebook page, the event is designed to provide "unparalleled opportunities for young Australians. This year we are introducing aviation to in excess of 225 young regional Australia's through our work experience program and STEM and Careers day."

Corey's mother said that while he does not think he will be able to earn a pilot's license due to his condition, they had a long conversation about other possible careers in aviation.

The team of 25 builders will work in teams to build the BushCat, beginning on Monday with final assembly on Friday and a first flight planned for the Saturday of the event.

Corey also hopes to meet one of his idols at the show. Australian Red Bull Air Race champion pilot Matt Hall will be at the event, and Hall sent Corey an autographed hat after the teen won the Queen's Scout award during a ceremony at the New South Wales Government House. Hall also sent Corey a voucher for a flight "as encouragement to keep living the dream," his mother said.

(Image from Facebook)

FMI: Source report
www.facebook.com/airventureaustralia/