It’s been just over a year since the cattle station community lost two passionate helicopter pilots, Peter Ritter and Gavin U’Ren, in a tragic accident whilst on a mustering job south of Derby, WA. These two men were more than just pilots — they were passionate about the ag-aviation world, helping keep cattle operations running and inspiring countless young pilots to take to the skies.
In honour of Pete and Gav, Graydn Doak, Owner and Operator of Jandakot Heli-Co in Perth has announced the annual Ritter-U’Ren Scholarship.
This scholarship aims to support junior pilots who are passionate about a career in agricultural aviation. The winner will receive:
Low-Level Rating or 5 hours of Advanced Emergency Training (R22 or R44, weight dependent)
All helicopter, instructor, and examiner costs included
Training conducted at Jandakot Heli-Co, Perth, WA
This is a rare and valuable opportunity for any pilot wanting to grow their skills and build a future in this demanding but rewarding sector.
To apply for the Ritter-U’Ren Scholarship:
Email office@jandakotheli-co.com.au with your contact details
Share a short story about yourself, your aviation journey, and your ag-aviation goals
Include a reference letter and contact details from someone already working in ag or aviation
📅 Applications close 1 October 2025. The winner will be drawn from a hat.
Tick Everett, NT pastoralist and co-founder of Dolly’s Dream, said it best after the accident:
"To all those brilliant men and women preparing to turn a key and take to the skies this morning to keep cattle yarded and families fed, with much upon your mind....We Salute you. We are grateful for your skill. God speed. Get it done. To the cowboys and cowgirls of the sky, who dedicate their days to working tirelessly, to help us on the ground do the job that we love, We thank you all endlessly. It’s not a job for the faint hearted...It’s not a 9 to 5 job... It’s a job for legends.
Take a moment today, to appreciate what these legends do for us everyday."
This scholarship keeps Pete and Gav’s legacy alive while investing in the next generation of skilled pilots.
If you’re an aspiring ag-aviation pilot — or you know someone who is — share this opportunity far and wide. This scholarship isn’t just about training; it’s about honouring two legends who loved the job and lived for the industry.
✈️ Apply now and take the next step in your aviation journey.
This is the newsletter dedicated to Pete and Gav last year in Aug 2024: VIEW HERE
Special thanks to Jack Poplawski, Chief Pilot at Fortescue Helicopters in Newman, WA - and also a great mate of Pete and Gav's - who reached out to RFTTE to tell us about Graydn Doak's generous scholarship - well done boys, fly safe.
