Tell us about Aerohart.
While learning to fly, I recognised the need for aviation products that mirrored the sophistication and beauty of the planes themselves. Having the privilege of owning a wonderful aircraft, I believed that aviation products should blend practicality with aesthetic excellence. As a female pilot in a predominantly male industry, I saw the need for innovative aviation products, leading me to create Aerohart’s collection of travel bags and accessories to simplify life for fellow aviators. I collaborated with an industrial design team in Brisbane to create a range of products that not only alleviate common frustrations but also infuse a sense of beauty into everyday aviation tools. Growing up in a rural environment instilled in me a sense of practicality and resourcefulness. This perspective is reflected in both my work in interior design and my endeavours with Aerohart. Throughout my upbringing, the pioneering spirit of Amelia Earhart served as a powerful inspiration. Hence, the name ‘Aerohart’ emerged as a fusion of ‘aero’ and ‘hart,’ symbolizing both my admiration for flight and my aspiration for well-crafted, elegant designs. In essence, Aerohart is not just a brand; it’s a representation of my dedication to bridging the gap in aviation design, fuelled by my love for flying and my desire to blend function with sophistication.
What inspired you to start Aerohart?
The inspiration behind starting Aerohart is deeply rooted in my personal journey and passion for aviation. Learning to fly has been a profound achievement for me, as I’ve always cherished the sense of freedom that taking to the skies provides. Growing up with my father flying our family between stations and to various events, I was immersed in aviation from an early age. However, I noticed a gap in the industry – most aviation products and equipment were designed by and for men, resulting in clunky and unrefined designs. This realization motivated me to embark on a mission to enhance the flying experience through thoughtful and elegant design.
Life threw some truly testing moments my way, including my father’s helicopter accident, a farming incident involving my son, and even a battle with breast cancer. Drawing strength from the resilience that rural women are known for, I channelled my energy into obtaining my pilot’s license, training for a marathon, and founding Aerohart.
Tell us about your career and background.
Growing up in rural Queensland, I was immersed in the dynamic world of mustering on horseback and taking trips in my father’s plane. My father’s love for flying became a shared passion, inspiring me to achieve my own pilot’s license. This accomplishment, coupled with my fascination for top-tier design and precision engineering, led to the development of Aerohart’s practical and stylish aviation equipment.
Beyond my work with Aerohart, I continue to juggle various roles as a mother, cattle property manager, interior decorator, and private pilot in Goondiwindi – a bustling regional town on the Queensland-New South Wales border. My journey has been greatly shaped by my determination, a love for aviation, and a commitment to creating products that combine beauty with functionality.
Describe a typical work day for you.
My daily routine revolves around family life with my husband and four kids, juggling flying, tending to cattle, fixing water pipes and fences, as well as running the Aerohart business and designing products.
I kickstart my day with an early Pilates session or a morning run, and once I drop off my youngest at school, I return home to water our beautiful garden! My office is right in the garden and I then catch up on emails and prep customer packages. Afterward, accompanied by my kelpie Rocky, I jump in my work ute and drive about 30 minutes outside of town to check on our cattle and handle various tasks like trough cleaning, mob management, or fence repairs. I make it back in time to pick up my son from school, and the rest of the afternoon zips by with errands, work around the house, and getting dinner ready – I’m quite the cooking enthusiast and love spending time in the kitchen.
What advice do you have for those wanting to start a business?
For aspiring entrepreneurs, I suggest focusing on a clear purpose, know your audience and who you’re looking to target. I really believe that true success isn’t just about celebrating achievements but about embracing learning opportunities, and empowering others to follow in similar footsteps. Approach the learning journey with resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to grow and most importantly, always keep your customers in mind.
Looking ahead, I’m really excited to introduce Aerohart to the world. It’s not just about launching a new brand; it’s about sharing a whole new way of thinking about aviation. Our aim is to make a real difference and shake things up in this field. So, stay tuned – we’re diving into this adventure and space showing off what makes Aerohart special, and shaping what’s to come in a big way.
For more please visit: aerohart.com.au
