AOPA statement on death of President Ron Bertram

[Guest Glenn]

An email sent to members of AOPA

 

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AOPA?s President Ron Bertram was tragically killed, in an aircraft accident

 

at Bankstown Airport on Wednesday the 5th April 2006.

 

Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Jo and their children and family.

 

Tributes and calls of support have arrived in great volume, including calls

 

from Bruce Byron, Greg Russell and Minister Truss?s office. These senior

 

government and regulatory representatives were all of one accord, in their

 

praise for the contribution that Ron had made to the General Aviation

 

industry. Each of them recognized his tireless efforts to represent the

 

industry on numerous issues, and particularly his efforts to encourage

 

co-operation between diverse bodies within the industry.

 

They have since issued independent statements, which are to be printed in

 

the national press, over the next few days.

 

His comrades at AOPA are stunned by his loss and are very aware of how

 

difficult it will be to follow in his footsteps. AOPA under his leadership

 

had achieved significant milestones and was poised to play a significant

 

role in representing General Aviation?s interests in the proposed

 

fundamental changes that are to occur.

 

The AOPA Board has met today, and is committed to continue Ron?s initiatives to honour his work. The AGM program with seminars, tradeshows, and industry meetings, to be held at Temora in May 12th to 14th is well advanced, as is

 

our presence at Natfly over Easter.

 

The Board today has elected Col Rodgers as President, until the AGM, and

 

Spencer Ferrier, has been appointed to fill the vacancy created by Ron?s

 

death.

 

Ballot papers and election details are included in the April issue of our

 

magazine mailed this week. The board elections will continue as planned.

 

We encourage all members and other in GA to come to Temora for the special events which will include tributes to our good friend and former President.

 

Bob Nash

 

Vice President