Lachlan McKechnie, 17, of Mendooran, wants to follow his father’s footsteps and join the Australian Defence Force.

David McKechnie was a paratrooper with 3RAR and was assisting Lachlan with paying for flying lessons, however his circumstances changed and he is now on a medical pension so can no longer manage this.

Lachlan began flying at 15 and is now in his final stages of completing Year 11 and has his sights firmly set on the ADF.

When Legacy NSW Associated Clubs chairman Paul Lane heard Lachlan’s story from Legacy’s Mudgee Division, he jumped into action. In May, legatee Lane visited him in Mendooran and gave him a special “present” – the gift of flying.

“After careful consideration, I was able to tell him that Legacy would now pay for his flying lessons enabling him to complete his RA-AUS Certificate and follow his dream,” Mr Lane said.

“We have access to some special funding and were delighted to assist Lachlan. I know he was thrilled, but I can tell you I was very happy too.”

On Saturday morning, Lachlan moved one step closer to his goal, completing a cross country flight, with his instructor, from Dubbo to Rylstone.

His landing was applauded by Mudgee North West Legacy president Rodger Howard, his wife Kate, other legatees and Legacy’s office manager Debbie Baskerville. His father, David, was in attendance too.

Lachlan also carried a special delivery. He had sold Legacy badges and other items at his school during Legacy Week (August 27-September 2) so returned the “badge tray” and collected funds to hand over to Mr Howard.

A special feature was that Lachlan flew into the Antique Aeroplane Association’s weekend at Rylstone so he could be amongst the old planes with his instructor Dan.