There is something special about a community coming together to celebrate its people, its traditions, and its future. Southern Cross Schools’ annual Founders’ Day is exactly that—a celebration of the school’s heritage while bringing learners, families, staff, and the wider Hoedspruit community together for a day filled with fun, connection, and lasting memories. The day included family activities, a Founders’ Day service, raffles, games, obstacle courses, colour fun, food stalls, and plenty of excitement for all ages.
This year, Bastion Aviation was incredibly proud to play a small part in making the day even more memorable.
Rewarding Hard Work from Above
As part of the school’s Founders’ Day celebrations, Bastion Aviation sponsored a helicopter experience for the children who sold the most raffle tickets in support of the event.
The lucky winners were welcomed to Hangar 23, where they had the opportunity to get up close to one of our Bell LongRanger helicopters before climbing aboard with Bastion pilot Donovan for what would undoubtedly become one of the highlights of their school year.
Taking to the skies above Hoedspruit, the flight circled over the Southern Cross Schools sports field where hundreds of learners, parents, teachers, and visitors had gathered for the day’s festivities. As the helicopter passed overhead, smiles, waves, and plenty of excitement erupted from below, creating a moment that those on the ground and in the air will remember for years to come.
It wasn’t just a helicopter ride—it was an experience that celebrated achievement, inspired young minds, and shared a little of the passion that drives everything we do at Bastion Aviation.
Investing in Our Community
At Bastion Aviation, we believe aviation is about so much more than flying.
It’s about connecting people, creating opportunities, and giving back to the communities that support us every day.
Supporting Southern Cross Schools is especially meaningful to us. As a local school shaping the next generation, they play an important role in building the future of Hoedspruit. Whether it’s through education, community events, or creating opportunities for young people to dream big, we are proud to stand alongside them.
Being able to share our passion for aviation with the children who worked so hard to earn their flight was a privilege. Seeing their excitement as they lifted off—and the excitement from everyone watching below—was a reminder of why community partnerships like these matter.
Here’s to Many More
A heartfelt congratulations to all of the raffle winners and to every learner who participated in making Founders’ Day such a success.
Thank you to Southern Cross Schools for allowing Bastion Aviation to be part of such a wonderful celebration. We look forward to supporting many more community initiatives in the years ahead, inspiring future aviators, and continuing to invest in the people who make Hoedspruit such an incredible place to call home.
Because sometimes, the best way to celebrate a community… is to see it from above.
