Jason O’Toole is the Director/Owner of Balonne Airwork and manages the business with support of
his wife, Samantha and a team of full-time and seasonal Pilots and ground staff.

Jason grew up in the St George district in a family with strong ties to agriculture. Jason had a desire
to fly from an early age and once graduating from St George High School began his working life in
order to save and put himself through his training.

Jason began is Agricultural Flying career with a local operator but has gained broad experience by
working multiple seasons in Canada, South Africa, South Australia, Western Australia and in
southern NSW on the rice seasons. Jason holds a Commercial Pilot’s licence with over 10,000 hours
and has 20+ years of flying experience. He holds several special endorsements and qualifications
including firebombing, oil slick spraying (AMSA approval) and night spraying. Jason has also
completed training on crew management, Aerial Improvement Management Systems (AIMS) and
USA Pilot SEAT Accredited Training.

Samantha’s first taste of Aerial Agriculture came from working for Rural Aviation in Canada whilst on
summer break from University. Although, these days Samantha isn’t in the business as often, she’s a
capable staff and operations manager and continues to support Jason and the staff.

Balonne Airwork Pilot’s hold Australian Commercial Pilot’s License, Agricultural Rating, State
Pesticide Licenses and appropriate endorsements for the aircraft they fly. We have grown a lot of
our own pilot resources having put two locals through their commercial pilot’s licenses and Ag
ratings. This gives us a collection of high time pilots, with strong local knowledge. At Balonne
Airwork works we have a focus on safety and continuous improvement. We aim to build a solid
working relationship between our clients and staff, because working together is key so we can
deliver a quality job every time.