WHO IS FLYING FOX?
Coby is the Founder and Chief Remote Pilot of Flying Fox Drone Solutions. After flying drones for over three years, Flying Fox took flight in 2025.
With over five years of experience in Natural Resource Management, Coby (pronouns they/them) discovered the power and potential of drone technology in the environmental sector—and was instantly captivated.
Drones combine their love for aviation, creativity, and deep commitment to healing the land. This led them to start their own business, collaborating with fellow environmental professionals to deliver innovative drone-based solutions.
Coby is also a vaccinated and trained volunteer bat rescuer assisting injured and misplaced flying foxes and microbats whenever they can.
Licences and education:
Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)
Remote Pilot’s Licence (RePL) sub 25kg
Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC)
Diploma in Conservation & Land Management
Diploma in Graphic Arts
PHILOSOPHY
Diversity is key to everything in nature and humanity. We all have unique experiences, perspectives and capabilities. When we all work together is when we can make a real difference.
Drones and technology should never replace people on the ground, most importantly Traditional Owners. Rather, drones can be a tool to be utilised alongside physical human land management. Humans are a part of nature, and nature is a part of us, so don’t forget to feel the ground beneath you.
I recognise that I live and work on stolen land and am committed to decolonising my business. I pledge to continually listen, learn and improve.
WHY “FLYING FOX”?
Balayang is the Woi-Wurrung word for the Grey-Headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus). These bats are an ecological keystone species and hold a special place in my heart. They are listed as threatened due to significant habitat loss and conflict with humans, often as a result of misunderstandings and untruths. Without these gentle, intelligent and loveable creatures, there is no bush to care for.
‘Sky puppies’ epitomise my mission to gracefully nurture our natural landscape through flight.
Learn more about these beautiful beings here: Atlas of Living Australia
To support the incredible volunteers who rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned flying foxes, check out Fly By Night Bat Clinic.
IMPORTANT
If you ever find a Flying Fox or Microbat in trouble, DO NOT TOUCH and call your local wildlife rescue group ASAP.