Dan Driscoll – HeliSpirit pilot Q & A

Dan Driscoll is best known for his helifishing skills; excellent flying and experienced fishing! He knows the secret places where the big barramundi live. Sometimes he has to work really hard, with evacuations and long days on survey. He does this all with mountains of patience and a sense of humour. Meet Dan here.

We asked Dan about his work and how he enjoys living in Kununurra.

WHERE DO YOU WORK?          
I am based in Kununurra, the capital of the East Kimberley (Dan laughs). There are two line pilots based here; myself and another bloke, plus the chief pilot and the operations manager, who is a pilot too. Kununurra is a good base to fly from and the Kimberley is an amazing place to fly around. It’s always a great climate up here in the Kimberley; always hot and dry, or hot and steamy, or hot and wet.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU AREN’T FLYING?
I try to get out of town and explore places I’ve flown over, I also try and get out on the water whenever possible for a spot of water skiing.

IS IT CHALLENGING LIVING IN A REMOTE PLACE?
No challenge! It’s great, I love remote areas.
I grew up on a farm east of Armidale in northern New South Wales. Then I worked as a Ringer and I have worked in the mining industry.

DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE?
I have had so many memorable passengers and experiences. It’s hard to single one out. It’s great to show people the Kimberley as they are all blown away by what they see and can do here. 
I have flown some famous people;  I took Matt Moran (celebrity chef) and also Andrew Embley (ex West Coast Eagles footballer, restauranteur and sports commentator) helifishing in May this year. On separate occasions.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love flying and landing in remote places that may not have been visited for a long time. My favourite location is a secret swimming hole, with amazing cascades and waterfalls. It has crystal clear water, is really peaceful and quiet. I love the untouched rugged beauty of the east Kimberley.

Shan Seebeck from Melbourne writes:
“My wonderful pilot, Dan (Uniform, Tango, Sierra) who was so meticulous, safe and thorough.  His secret landing spots were amazing. He was such good company.  We had great times and many laughs. But the best thing is we share a love of this spectacular country.”
You can learn more about the work Dan does here.