After two terms as National Rigging Officer, Brett Newman has decided to step down and hand over the rigging reigns.

Thank You Brett

After more than 25 years of active APF membership, and serving in the role of National Rigging Officer (NRO) for two terms totalling almost a decade, Brett Newman has decided to step down and hand over the rigging reigns.

Brett has contributed and added significant value to the sport and industry in many ways. Accumulating 14,000 jumps, he also served in roles including Queensland Safety and Training Officer (STO), Rigger Examiner, Chair of the Rigging Committee and APF delegate to PIA. He continues to serve APF members through his loft, Downward Trend, and his influence in the industry continues to benefit the APF and its members on a broader scale, specifically through his close relationship with companies such as UPT, JYRO, Sunpath, Cookie, PD and Vigil, to name a few.

Brett also decided to do his last parachute jump in December 2025. We wish Brett, Sheralee and the family health and happiness, and all success with their future plans.

New NRO: Ben Nordkamp

Ben Nordkamp will succeed Brett as APF NRO with effect 02 February 2026.

Ben is an accomplished skydiver, rigger and instructor, being an APF Life Member with 42 years of continuous membership. He has held a rigger rating for 34 years, and instructor ratings with multiple endorsements for the last 40 years.

Currently the Chief Instructor (CI) at Ramblers Parachute Centre, Ben is also a CRW and Wingsuit Coach, Display Organiser and holds both Rigger and Instructor Examiner approvals. Ben has also served in various South Queensland Parachute Council (SQPC) and APF positions, including Director Safety (DS) and Area Safety Officer (ASO).

With his wide involvement, including more than 12,000 jumps with local and international competition and record experience, Ben brings a wealth of experience to the NRO role, and will also be a valuable addition to the Technical and Safety Committee (TSC). 

Please join us in thanking Brett for his outstanding service and welcoming Ben into the role.

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[Photo sources: Brett Newman, Steve Fitchett, Ben Nordkamp, APF]