Our Stories

Cheyenne

Cheyenne, 6, stands on the wing after her flight in one of a fleet of light aircraft in FunFlight 2007. The pilots raised the spirits of dozens of sick kids.  Cheyenne said she was "really excited" about this year's FunFlight, because she and her family had such a great day last year.

On the 3rd June 2007 we were one of the many lucky families to be invited to the Funflight Starlight Escape, where 43 pilots volunteered their aircrafts and their time.  My nerves were put at ease once we met our experienced pilot. After a smooth take-off I immediately relaxed and enjoyed the breathtaking views of Melbourne and the Peninsula. Our knowledgable pilot answered our many questions and kept us informed on our exciting journey. It was joyous to hear the laughter behind me from my 'Starlight' child, after all this amazing experience was for her!

Once we landed at Tyabb Airport we were feasted with a delicious smorgasboard of food. There was plenty of entertainment but the highlights of the day continued with an incredible plane stunt show which left the crowd speechless.

As we boarded the plane back to Moorabbin Airport we reflected on our fabulous day. We would like to thank Michel Verheem, Starlight and the volunteer pilots for giving our family this experience.

The Kiley Family

The following email was received by the FunFlight team from pilot Tony Taggart post the 2007 event.

Tony wrote: What a terrific day yesterday. As I said in my report to Angel Flight: The weather was fantastic especially given what we had leading up to the day. My summary is this: Lots of very happy patients and their loved ones and lots of very happy providers. A total win win all round. I got the big bonus of a big hug from my two little ones at the end of the day. It means so much. Whilst mum is not a convert to GA ,she was unbelievably brave to even come on board because she is petrified of heights and had her eyes shut for almost the entire flight time and just clung to her daughter on the way and to her son on the way back.

Thank you very very much for allowing me to be a small part in what was a beaut day.

Tony Taggart

FunFlight is currently recruiting volunteers to be Ground Crew for the next event on Sunday 9 November, 2008. Volunteers can help on the day by greeting families and friends, finding their pilots, taking photographs, helping the host Aero Club with the buffet lunch and/or barbeque and keeping every one safe and happy whilst on the ground. more >>>