Byron Waller, a 14-year-old teen pilot, embarked on an extraordinary journey, flying around Australia to raise awareness for Crohn’s Disease and Queensland Children’s Hospital, while inspiring kids battling the same diagnosis. His mission? To show that no challenge is too big to take flight.
Day 1 - 15 September:
Byron took to the skies in his Cessna 172 today, leaving Archerfield Airport at precisely 12:15 PM. A close-knit group of family, friends, and supporters gathered to bid him farewell, their warm send-off echoing through the tarmac. Cameras from Channels 7 and 9 captured the moment, highlighting the significance of the journey ahead.
As the aircraft ascended into the clear blue sky, Byron’s flight path was set for Rockhampton, where he will spend the night. With the engine humming and the horizon stretching out, Byron prepared for the 10,000km adventure that lay ahead.
Day 2 - 16 September:
Teen Pilot Down Under, Byron Waller, made headlines today as he continued his awe-inspiring journey around Australia, taking off from Rockhampton Airport after a lively interview on River 94.9 FM, an Ipswich radio station. Despite challenging windy conditions, Byron successfully navigated a stopover in the Whitsundays, where he was treated to a scenic flight by another pilot, adding an unforgettable experience to his adventure. An exhilarating highlight of today's leg was Byron's skilled landing amidst strong winds, soaring over a Qantas Boeing poised for takeoff. The daring maneuver surely left onlookers and fellow aviators amazed, sparking curiosity about what the Qantas pilot must have thought seeing a young teen expertly handling the aircraft overhead. Byron's journey continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of people across the nation, showcasing his remarkable skills and the spirit of young adventurers.
Day 3 - 17 September:
A rest day in Cairns unfolded as rain and low cloud settled in, prompting a pause in our flying activities. Byron, feeling nervous, managed to conduct an interview with Channel 7 regional TV, which marked a significant moment in his journey. Meanwhile, he dedicated some time to editing his YouTube videos, hoping to capture the essence of his experiences so far. Rob treated himself to ice cream as a sweet distraction, while Rod donned his raincoat for a walk, only to get caught in the downpour. The evening brightened at the hotel with a hearty steak night, a fitting meal to wrap up the day. Optimism lingered in the air, with hopes that the weather would lift tomorrow as they prepared to continue their journey north to Lockhart River.eam, Rod went for a walk and got rained on. Dinner steak night at hotel. Weather should lift tomorrow and continue journey up north to Lockhart river. A rest day in Cairns unfolded as rain and low cloud settled in, prompting a pause in outdoor activities. Byron, feeling nervous, managed to conduct an interview with Channel 7 regional TV, which marked a significant moment in his journey. Meanwhile, he dedicated some time to editing his YouTube videos, hoping to capture the essence of his experiences so far. Rob treated himself to ice cream as a sweet distraction, while Rod donned his raincoat for a walk, only to get caught in the downpour. The evening brightened at the hotel with a hearty steak night,
Day 4 - 18 September:
Friday morning started with an overcast sky, but visibility improved as the day progressed.
We managed to take off around 8:15 AM, with conditions allowing for a smooth cruise above the clouds at approximately 6,500 feet for most of the flight. As we approached Lockhart River, we descended through a gap in the clouds and were greeted by two friendly chaps who looked after the airfield. One shared that he had recently acquired 80 acres in the bush and enjoyed a tranquil lifestyle there. The airfield was quiet during our visit, and the boys provided us with fuel at cost price, offering assistance and hospitality.
After refuelling, we took off again in gusty conditions, heading north along the coast at a lower altitude due to limited visibility. The view of striking white sand dunes, used for glass mining, was remarkable. As we neared Horn Island, Rod flew us over the furthest point of Australia, allowing us to take a loop overhead. We spotted tourists in pink shirts, looking bemused as they hiked in the remote area.
The final approach to Horn Island was routine, and Byron executed a fantastic landing. We were welcomed by not just one, but two BP fuel trucks, driven by Robert and Blake, who would later meet us for dinner at the Wongai Resort restaurant. Robert has been working at the airfield refuelling since 1986.
After a long day, Byron was quite exhausted, so we left him at the motel. I took the ferry across to Thursday Island, the top pub in Australia, where we had dinner with our new friends Blake and his partner Amelia, the chief pilot for Cape Air Transport.
Day 5 - 19 September:
Day 5 brought rain and squalls as we departed Horn Island, making our way south along the opposite coast of Australia. As we approached Weipa, the weather began to clear, offering a welcome break from the gloom.
While we briefed the RAAF Scherger runway, a decision was made not to land there, recognising it would not be prudent. Instead, we landed safely at Weipa aerodrome, where we took the opportunity to refuel.
Our plans initially included a stop in Normanton; however, due to a lack of accommodation stemming from a large funeral in town, we adjusted our course to the coastal fishing town of Karumba.
Karumba proved to be an appealing destination. We settled in at Savanna Shores, and Scott from the hotel kindly picked us up to gather some necessities. We capped off the day with dinner at a local restaurant that offered stunning views of the beach, allowing us to enjoy the sunset across the water—a perfect end to our travel day.
Day 6 - 20 September:
Friday morning started with an overcast sky, but visibility improved as the day progressed.
We managed to take off around 8:15 AM, with conditions allowing for a smooth cruise above the clouds at approximately 6,500 feet for most of the flight. As we approached Lockhart River, we descended through a gap in the clouds and were greeted by two friendly chaps who looked after the airfield. One shared that he had recently acquired 80 acres in the bush and enjoyed a tranquil lifestyle there. The airfield was quiet during our visit, and the boys provided us with fuel at cost price, offering assistance and hospitality.
After refuelling, we took off again in gusty conditions, heading north along the coast at a lower altitude due to limited visibility. The view of striking white sand dunes, used for glass mining, was remarkable. As we neared Horn Island, we flew over the furthest point of Australia, allowing us to take a loop overhead. We spotted tourists in pink shirts, looking bemused as they hiked in the remote area.
The final approach to Horn Island was routine, and Byron executed a fantastic landing. We were welcomed by not just one, but two BP fuel trucks, driven by Robert and Blake, who would later meet us for dinner at the Wongai Resort restaurant. Robert has been working at the airfield refuelling since 1986.
After a long day, Byron was quite exhausted, so we left him at the motel. I took the ferry across to Thursday Island, the top pub in Australia, where we had dinner with our new friends Blake and his partner Amelia, the chief pilot for Cape Air Transport.
Day 7 - 21 September:
Great flying weather as we departed Karumba, cruising at 8,500 feet. By 9am, we crossed into the Northern Territory, heading towards Borroloola for a much-needed fuel stop.
Upon arrival at Borroloola around 10am, the temperature was already a sweltering 36 degrees. We refuelled the aircraft, our refuelling session observed by a couple of locals who seemed intrigued by our presence. The price for avgas here was $3.60 per litre.
After securing enough fuel, we continued our journey over the outback towards Katherine. The landscape stretched out beneath us, a vivid display of the rugged Australian terrain.
We touched down at Tindal in Katherine, where we refuelled again. The area was bustling with significant infrastructure projects underway, and glimpses of military hardware in the vicinity hinted at the region's strategic importance.
Refuelling costs here were more reasonable at $2.83 per litre. We planned to set off for Darwin later this afternoon, eager to continue our adventure.
Day 8 - 22 September:
Headed to Kununurra across the border into WA, we made a quick stop for fuel before ascending over the rugged Kimberley ranges to Mt Hart Station. Nestled within this expansive region, we stumbled upon a small oasis at Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge. Here, Pat and Kieran greeted us with warm hospitality, making us feel right at home.
As it was the last day of the season, they were in the midst of preparing to shut down for the wet season. Despite this, the atmosphere was vibrant, and we thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful facilities alongside some fascinating fellow travellers. The camaraderie added to our experience, allowing us to share stories and revel in the unique setting.
The natural beauty surrounding us was truly captivating, particularly the lush landscapes of the Kimberley and the iconic Gibb River. It's a place that leaves a mark, and we hold onto the hope of returning to explore more.
After savouring a cold drink and taking in the serenity one last time, we set off toward Broome, eager for the next chapter of our journey.
Day 9 - 23 September:
Broome to Karratha via Port Hedland
Our day began with a late morning departure from Broome, refueling en route at Port Hedland before heading to Karratha for the night. Upon landing at Port Hedland, we ran into a slight miscommunication with the fuel company—they informed us that only BP fuel cards could be used at the bowser, with no account or fuel truck available. Fuel came in at $2.94 per liter.
Byron handled the day's flight with great focus and determination. While he encountered a minor challenge with his circuit procedure during the landing at Port Hedland, it presented an opportunity for learning and growth as a young pilot. Rod provided guidance and reinforcing the importance of calling for a go-around when necessary to ensure a safe approach. Byron’s quick adaptation and resilience in the face of challenges continue to show his dedication and capability as he progresses in his flying journey.
A fuel attendant arrived and refuelled the plane. Afterward, we continued our journey to Karratha, where we checked into the Latitude20 Motel. While the accommodation had a rustic, mining-town feel that differed from the brochure’s polished images, it added a bit of character to the adventure. The real highlight was the nearby sports bar, which served delicious food. Byron and Rod enjoyed perfectly cooked steaks, and Byron wrapped up the day with a tasty burger, making for a satisfying end to a long day of flying..
Day 10 - 24 September:
We left Karratha early in the morning and made a smooth journey directly to Carnarvon, covering 306 nautical miles. We landed around midday, greeted by strong winds. Despite the weather, our arrival was made memorable by Hutchie from Air BP, who greeted us warmly and generously offered us his personal vehicle for use during our stay in town.
In Carnarvon, we stopped at Valeria’s Delicatessen, where Rod and Rob enjoyed a coffee, chorizo, and cheese, while Byron opted for a rice stew and a refreshing apricot ice pole. After dropping off our gear, we headed out to visit the fascinating Space Centre. The volunteers managing the museum were delightful, sharing stories of their travels around the country in their caravan while volunteering.
On our way back to town, we bumped into Hutchie again—turns out he wears many hats, not only as the air fuel guy but also as a plumber and commodore of the local yacht club! He gave us a tour of the club, and we shared a few drinks while Byron had fun playing with his dog, Luna.
The day ended back at the hotel with a casual dinner. Rod and I enjoyed leftover chorizo, cheese, and olives, while Byron treated himself to a hot rock steak and buffet for $50—a great way to wrap up another eventful day.
Day 11 - 25 September:
Leaving Carnarvon for Busselton marked a BIG day of flying, with a quick stop at the bustling Geraldton airfield for fuel. Despite the busy airspace, Byron confidently handled the challenge, even executing a go-around after overshooting the runway—a valuable learning experience for any pilot. Our friend Paul Hanton was following our progress on Flight Radar, humorously asking if Byron was showing off to his fans! Byron, always quick-witted, is building quite the repertoire of humorous excuses for minor flight adjustments.
Due to restricted Perth airspace from military exercises, we diverted to Northam airfield, where the journey continued over endless farmland. At Northam, we were greeted by the hangar cat and refueled for the final leg to Busselton. Byron smoothly navigated another go-around during landing, and we were warmly welcomed at Busselton Aeroclub by John Brisco and his trusty sheepdog, Bowie.
Our stay in Busselton was made even better by Zeb, who generously left us his Suzuki Jimny to get around and arranged for us to stay at the Hilton with breakfast included. We capped off the evening with an amazing dinner at Shelter Brewery, enjoying great food and company. Byron relished lamb ribs, corn poppers, and chips, while Rod and I enjoyed brisket, pork schnitzel, and a refreshing hazy ale. It was the perfect end to a full day of flying adventures.
Day 12 - 26 September:
We had a wonderful stay at the Hilton (sponsored) – the beds were incredibly comfortable after such a long day of flying, ensuring a great night’s rest. The breakfast was fantastic, setting us up perfectly for the day ahead. Today was a maintenance day: Rod took care of the oil change while we took the Jimny into town to stock up on supplies and handle laundry. We enjoyed a scenic walk to the end of the pier, stopping at the observation deck for some breathtaking views.
In the afternoon, I caught up with my cousin Lea who I had not met before, for a relaxing coffee. Later, Zeb arranged for us to stay at his parents’ beautiful acreage property in the wetlands outside of Busselton, offering a peaceful retreat. We capped off the day with another delicious meal at the Shelter Brewery—the perfect way to end a productive and enjoyable day.
Day 13 - 27 September:
We started the day with a warm breakfast alongside Zeb’s parents, Carolyn and Mike, before meeting Reef from Busselton Plane Spotting. The lighthearted moments, like Zeb’s kids dashing around after enjoying liquorice from a kind Italian club member, added a joyful touch to the morning.
After departing Busselton, we flew low under the clouds towards Caiguna, with heavy rain hot on our heels. Along the way, we made a stop in Esperance where we met Hayden McDonald, from Wings Without Barriers, who kindly brought us sandwiches. Hayden’s generosity, along with his Jabiru plane, was a reminder of the supportive community that has made this journey possible.
Hayden, the founder of Wings Without Barriers, is an inspiring figure who has combined his passion for aviation with advocacy for inclusion of people on the autism spectrum. Diagnosed with autism, Hayden faced challenges in pursuing his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. After being denied a medical license by Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority due to his diagnosis, he launched Wings Without Barriers to promote awareness and challenge perceptions about neurodiverse pilots.
Hayden's initiative involved flying solo around Australia in his Jabiru J120 light aircraft, stopping at schools and communities to raise awareness about autism and encourage acceptance. His journey is not only a personal challenge but also a mission to inspire other neurodiverse individuals to pursue their dreams, no matter the barriers they face.
His project exemplifies how perseverance, community support, and advocacy can break down barriers, making his mission resonate deeply with Byron’s own efforts to raise awareness for Crohn’s Disease during this incredible flight journey.
The weather cleared briefly, allowing us to refuel and press on to Caiguna. Although the bush strip was flooded, we managed to land safely amidst the challenging conditions, with rain continuing through the night.
Reflecting on this journey, it’s incredible to think how far we’ve come—both in miles and in raising awareness for Crohn’s Disease. Like Hayden, Byron’s ability to take on such a demanding trip, despite his diagnosis, is a testament to careful preparation, sensible decision-making, and the unwavering support of those around him. It shows that with the right mindset, even the biggest challenges can be tackled head-on.
Day 14 - 28 September:
The morning sunshine and wind worked in our favour, drying the airstrip just enough for us to fuel up and take off around midday. After a thorought safety briefing and theory session from Rod, Byron confidently completed his first soggy bush takeoff out of Caiguna, and we headed towards Forrest for a fuel stop before making our way to Ceduna for the night.
Our flight from Forrest to Ceduna was smooth and effortless, cruising at 9500 feet with a helpful tailwind pushing us along at 173 knots. Upon arriving in Ceduna, we stayed at the Ceduna Foreshore Hotel Motel, a lovely waterfront spot. The bar staff even picked us up in the courtesy van, which added a nice personal touch to the evening.
In Ceduna, the lack of taxi services due to local social challenges highlights how communities can sometimes struggle, but the kindness of the people at the hotel reminded us that support comes in many forms, and together, anything is achievable.
The morning’s challenges with the soggy runway at Caiguna mirror the personal obstacles Byron faces with Crohn’s Disease. Just as we waited for the sun and wind to dry the strip for a safe takeoff, Byron’s journey with Crohn’s requires patience, resilience, and careful management. His ability to tackle both the unpredictability of flying and his health condition highlights his determination to show that with the right support and sensible decisions, no challenge is insurmountable.
Flying at 9500 feet with a tailwind guiding us smoothly to Ceduna, Byron demonstrated that despite the hurdles—whether it’s a wet runway or living with Crohn’s—he can continue soaring towards his goals. This journey, both in the air and in life, is a powerful reminder that obstacles can be overcome with preparation, the right mindset, and the help of those around us.
Day 15 - 29 September:
Our journey has been full of unexpected moments, but each one adds to the adventure. While we couldn't refuel at Ceduna without a BP fuel card, we quickly adapted and made a stop at Wudinna, where we fueled up with avgas. The best part? We met two local farmers, Dean and John, who were drawn by the sound of our plane flying over their small town of just 500 people. It turns out they also had little planes—RAAUS style—and we shared stories about our love for aviation.
After taking off again, we completed a long leg of the trip, flying over Adelaide and making our way to Naracoorte. With the momentum going strong, we decided to push a little further and landed in Warrnambool. The town welcomed us with a peaceful stay at a charming old homestead, where we each had our own room and a cozy lounge to relax in. Rob even made a quick run to Woolworths to grab some supplies for the evening.
Reflecting on the trip, it's clear that with Crohn's, thoughtful planning and the right support can make even big adventures like this possible. From fuel stops to unexpected connections with friendly locals, every detail fell into place, reminding us that with sensible choices and a positive attitude, there's no limit to where we can go. This trip has been a testament to resilience, and the beauty of adapting to life's challenges without losing the joy of the journey.
Day 16 - 30 September:
Leaving Warrnambool for Moorabbin in Melbourne to refuel marked the beginning of an exciting journey. Even though we had to wait 40 minutes for a taxi, it’s a reminder of how, outside the main centres in Australia, transport options can be limited. But that's all part of the adventure, right?
Byron got his absentee form in from school today—no worries there. The school break is over, but we’re making the most of these moments before diving back into the routine. ❤️
Once we landed in Mallacoota, Gail from the hotel was kind enough to pick us up straight from the airfield. It’s small gestures like these that make these trips feel special. From there, we wandered down to the beach through the peaceful caravan park. In true Rod style, he borrowed a bike from some kids at the skate park and, always the joker, rode it backwards—bringing some laughter to the day.
As I reflect on the journey, I can’t help but feel thankful. Living with Crohn’s can make life unpredictable, but with careful planning, support from loved ones, and a bit of flexibility, these adventures are not only possible—they’re deeply rewarding. Making sensible choices along the way ensures we can keep moving forward, taking in these beautiful experiences that remind us how far we’ve come.
Day 17 - 1 October:
Our journey started with a bright morning in Mallacoota, departing at 10:15am, bound for Shell Harbour with plans to take Liam (someone who we were hoping to take for a joy flight as he’s unwell himself) for a flight. Unfortunately, Liam had to prioritise his health and go for treatment instead. It was a gentle reminder that Crohn's requires ongoing care and understanding, but with the right support and mindful decisions, the journey doesn’t stop.
So, we adjusted course and headed straight up to Camden, where we were welcomed with open arms by Rod’s mum, Michelle, and Rob. We spent two wonderful nights there, enjoying the warmth and hospitality of family. During the stay, we also had the pleasure of meeting Rod’s brother Shannon, his wife Lisa, and their lovely children, Chloe and Jessica. It was a heartwarming time, surrounded by loved ones.
One of the highlights had to be when Rod, always the playful spirit, found a kids' bike and took it for a spin – backwards! His joyful nature reminds us that no matter the challenges, there’s always room for laughter and light-hearted moments.
This trip was a true reflection of how, even with Crohn’s, life’s adventures remain within reach. It’s all about being adaptable, making smart choices, and having the unwavering support of family. Through it all, the journey becomes not just possible, but deeply rewarding.
Day 18 - 2 October:
As we bid farewell to Camden and set off back to Brisbane, with a quick stop in Armadale for fuel, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much this trip means. We even had a chance encounter with Emilia (from Horn Island) in Armadale, watching her take off just behind us—a small but special moment, reminding me how connected we all are, even in the vastness of the skies.
Flying over Queensland Children’s Hospital (QCH) at 4:35pm for filming was an incredible way to cap off this journey. There was some uncertainty about getting approval for the flyover from Air Services at the last minute, but fortune smiled on us, and we received the flight path just as we were approaching Brisbane. The timing couldn’t have been better.
This trip wasn’t just a physical journey; it was a personal triumph made possible by the unwavering support around me and by making thoughtful, sensible choices along the way. Living with Crohn’s means carefully balancing health and ambition, and this adventure proved that with the right planning and the strength of those who care, almost anything is achievable.
Landing at Archerfield was more than just the end of this leg of the trip—it was a reminder that challenges don’t have to hold us back. Every flight, every hurdle, every milestone reinforces the belief that even with Crohn’s, you can reach new heights when you take things step by step, stay mindful of your needs, and trust in the support of those who are with you.
This journey may have come to an end, but it’s left a lasting mark.
Why is Byron flying around Australia? What is Crohn's Disease?
Byron has Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, often varying in severity and manifestation among individuals. Its pathogenesis is complex and not entirely understood, involving a multifaceted interplay of genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, and autoimmune responses. Common symptoms can include persistent abdominal pain, frequent diarrhoea, extreme fatigue, and unintended weight loss, which can significantly impact daily life.The diagnosis of Crohn's disease typically requires a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans, laboratory blood tests for inflammatory markers, and endoscopic examinations to visualise and obtain tissue samples from the intestine. These methods help establish the specific location and extent of intestinal inflammation.
Management of Crohn's disease may encompass a range of treatment strategies tailored to each individual. Lifestyle and dietary modifications can play a crucial role, alongside pharmacological interventions such as corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory agents, and immunosuppressants to reduce inflammation and control the immune response. In more severe cases, surgical options may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract.
Patients often experience a pattern of flares and periods of remission, necessitating ongoing monitoring and support from healthcare professionals. Engaging with patient communities can also provide valuable emotional and practical assistance, enhancing the overall management of the condition.
The challenges for Byrons’ trip will be vast during this trip. He will be in multiple different environments, pushing himself mentally and physically, and not able to eat his regular diet. To assist him with the changes, he has spent 6-months preparing and planning how to eat, sleep, and manage stress levels - all in an attempt to minimise the risk of a Crohn’s flare up, so he can complete this gruelling challenge.
Encouragement and Support from around the world
“I met Byron last year when he visited the UK. I have been a Commercial Airline Pilot for the past 34 years, flying turboprop aircraft with Loganair and most types of Boeing aircraft from B747, B757, B767 as well as the B777 as a Captain for 11 years with British Airways.
Chatting to Byron, I was immediately impressed by his interest, determination and enthusiasm to becoming a Pilot, despite all the health issues that he has suffered and his achievements since then. His questions were all very mature and only confirmed his knowledge of aviation and his willingness to find out more about the industry.
The afternoon very much impressed me on how keen he is to reach his goal, and I can only wish him every success in gaining this.
I wish him the best of luck with his challenge of navigating around Australia and look forward to hearing about and seeing his progress on this challenge and his future career path.”
VIDEOS
Registering will help you keep up with what is going on and it is free!!!
Sign up to be the first to know about our events and for early access to parts of the journey.