Since graduating from Churchie, Old Boy Nathan James (1996) has been soaring amongst the clouds. The son of Churchie Maths and German teacher, Rod McElhinney (1977 - 1998), who was known to many as ‘Mr Mac’ or ‘Papa Smurf’, Nathan began flight training during Year 12 and earned his Commercial Pilot Licence and Flight Instructor Rating the following year at Gil Layt’s Flying School.

Over the past 28 years Nathan has enjoyed an exciting and accomplished aviation career, during which he has held key roles across the country as Chief Pilot, Chief Flight Instructor, and Flight Examiner. He has travelled the world promoting Australian aviation and collaborating with numerous regulators to modernise training syllabi and methodologies. Additionally, he played a key role in developing Australia’s leading flight school management software, which enables flying schools to digitally manage all aspects of their operations, including administration, education, maintenance, and safety management.

In 2018, Nathan co-founded White Star Aviation, a boutique flight school specialising in training pilots for charter operators in the Torres Strait and Northern Territory. The programme focuses on developing the skills needed to handle the region's unique weather and operational conditions. Students complete most of their training at White Star’s facilities in Ballina and Armidale before heading north for the remainder of their training in scenario-based exercises designed to prepare them for real-world challenges.

The offer of employment before commencement of training is a true privilege and a real safety net for those who are successful in securing themselves a position on these programmes.

With plans for expansion into scenic and corporate charter spaces in 2025, there are exciting times ahead for Nathan and his team.

If Churchie students and /or Old Boys are considering an aviation career, or even as a hobby, then Nathan and the White Star team are definitely the go to team!