After completing her undergraduate studies and military flying training, Natalee Johnston became the Royal Australian Navy’s first female pilot.
Her naval career spanned 24 years and many roles including; a helicopter pilot, flying instructor, operations officer, commander and respected leader.
Her strength, perseverance and decision-making enabled Natalee to survive and thrive in her naval career. Any naval helicopter pilot faces many challenges in a dynamic environment, Natalee dealt with the additional obstacle of being one of the only women in a male-dominated arena. These challenges only grew as she became a mother and faced some demanding personal decisions. As a pilot, leader and mother Natalee understands the need for clear and timely decisions. Natalee also recognises the impact a poor decision can have on all aspects of operations, especially if it is not recognised or acknowledged by yourself or the business.
Natalee is a confident, accomplished and proven decision-maker. She uses her skills within the local community as a Patrol Captain and Trainer at the local Surf Lifesaving Club, is an active member of Women in Aviation International Australian Chapter, a Director of the local Bendigo Community Bank and the NSCA Foundation.
Royal Aeronautical Society (MRAeS), International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI), Fellow Governance InsTitute of Australia (FGIA),
Women in Aviation International Australian Chapter, Australian Women Pilots Association (AWPA), Whirly Girls, Women in Military Aviation.
Masters of Business (MBus.), UNSW, Bachelor of Science (Physics), UNSW, Post Graduate Certificate Aviation Accident Investigation, Cranfield University, UK, Graduate Diploma in Strategic Leadership, Churchill Education, Associate Diploma in Work Health & Safety, Churchill Education, Diploma in Security and Risk Management, Churchill Education, Diploma in Auditing, Southpac Aerospace, Military Pilot – single-engine aeroplane, single and multi-engine helicopter, Royal Australian Navy, Helicopter Instructor, Central Flying School, RAF Shawbury, Aviation Safety Officer, Navy School of Aviation Safety, Pensacola USA.
Natalee is a passionate storyteller who captivates her audiences. She uses her unique experiences to promote positive safety cultures and motivate and inspire others to be their best. She has participated in a variety of podcasts sharing her experiences and challenges as a Navy Helicopter pilot, woman and Veteran.
EMCEE testimonial:
“I have had the pleasure of working with Natalee as the MC for International Women’s Day events over the past few years. Natalee is exceptionally reliable and professional, ensuring that every aspect of the event runs smoothly. Her organisational skills are outstanding, allowing her to handle any situation with grace and efficiency. What stood out most was her military precision timing and ability to keep everything on schedule, making the event a seamless experience for everyone involved. I highly recommend Natalee for any event—her expertise and dedication truly shine.” Emily Jenkins – Women’s Connection
UNDIEVIDED by Danya Atkinson with Natalee Johnston
Leading Safety by Georgina Poole with Natalee Johnston
Women in safety podcast
Natalee Johnston - Navy Aviation Pioneer, Safety Expert
Dr Chris Maguire talks with Natalee about her incredible career
Resilience Mindset with Natalee Johnston
Influencing a Positive Aviation Culture with Natalee Johnston
Natalee's presentation was insightful, entertaining and heartfelt. Feedback from conference attendees listed her presentation as a highlight. She was an absolute pleasure to deal with in the lead up to, and during the conference. She took the time to learn about our organisation and its purpose, and to understand our audience so she could tailor her presentation accordingly. The result was that she captivated the crowd and taught us about human factors in a farm safety context.
Natalee Johnston presented at the launch of the Bureau of Meteorology's internal health and safety campaign in August, 2022. Her presentation was extremely engaging and highlighted the value of a mature and high-performing safety culture. Natalee delivered important health and safety messages through her own personal experience and stories, which complemented our campaign's objectives. Natalee's presentation received exceptional staff engagement and interest, which has continued to flow throughout the ongoing campaign.
