
Meet The Team
Professional, flexible and scalable aerial drone solutions.
DIWA provides RPAS solutions across Australia & around the globe. Safety, reliability and flexibility are our main priorities. Established in 2016, CASA ReOC, IREX, EVLOS holders, and CM3 Certified DIWA offer you the trust & confidence that comes with our operating experience and an impeccable reputation within the UAV industry, utilising a team of industry professionals and dedicated pilots.
Our service, quality, and safety standards are Second to none.

Founder & CEO
Mike Appleyard
Meet Mike: Your Expert in RPAS Operations
Credentials:
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Remote Pilots License (RePL)
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Aeronautical Radio Operators License
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Remote Operators Certificate
About Mike:
With over seven years of dedicated experience in the RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) industry, Mike brings unparalleled expertise to every project. His journey began with serving in the British Armed Forces, where he honed his skills in precision, discipline, and safety. Transitioning seamlessly into civilian life, Mike has since become a cornerstone in the realm of drone operations.
Professional Journey:
Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated a multifaceted approach to RPAS operations. His tenure at DIWA saw him spearheading operations, ensuring seamless execution and adherence to the highest standards. Mike has consistently delivered results that exceed expectations, from remote mine site surveying to intricate industrial drone inspections.
Diverse Experience:
Mike's journey in the RPAS industry has been marked by versatility and innovation. He has navigated through various sectors, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. His expertise extends beyond conventional applications, encompassing bespoke RPAS projects that push the boundaries of possibility.

Director of Safety & Compliance RPAS
James Bethell
Meet Jim: Your Expert in Drone Safety and Compliance
Credentials:
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Remote Operators Certificate
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Remote Pilots License (RePL)
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Aeronautical Radio Operators License
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CASA IREX Accredited
About Jim:
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in the Royal Air Force, Jim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to drone operations. His journey began with rigorous training and service in airborne sensors, culminating in distinguished roles, including RAF search and rescue operations.
Professional Journey:
Jim's time in the Royal Air Force gave him invaluable insights into flight safety and aviation legislation. As a drone safety and compliance leader, Jim assumes a pivotal role in ensuring integrity and adherence to regulations within the uncrewed sector. His meticulous approach extends to constructing robust safety cases for new projects and emerging technologies, safeguarding operations, and effectively mitigating risks.
Expertise and Authority:
With Jim at the helm of safety and compliance, you can rest assured that your drone operations are in the hands of a seasoned professional. His unparalleled expertise, honed through years of service and dedication, positions him as a leading authority in the field.
Why Choose Jim?
When you entrust Jim with your drone safety and compliance needs, you partner with a professional who prioritises precision, reliability, and innovation. With his guidance, your projects meet regulatory standards and exceed expectations, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the uncrewed sector.

Founder - Managing Director
Lee Freer
Meet Lee: Your Expert in Industrial Inspections
Credentials:
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Remote Operators Certificate
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Remote Pilots License (RePL)
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Aeronautical Radio Operators License
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IRATA Level 3
About Lee:
With a robust background spanning over two decades in the industrial inspecting industry, Lee brings unparalleled expertise and precision to every project. His journey is marked by extensive experience in both onshore and offshore sectors, encompassing various inspection methodologies, including rope access and NDT (Non-Destructive Testing).
Professional Journey:
A relentless commitment to excellence and innovation in industrial inspections distinguishes Lee's career. His comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience equip him to navigate the complexities of diverse environments, from challenging offshore installations to intricate onshore facilities. Lee's proficiency extends beyond traditional methods, incorporating cutting-edge technologies to deliver insights that drive operational efficiency and safety.
Expertise in Inspections:
As a seasoned professional, Lee is renowned for his keen attention to detail and meticulous approach to inspections. Whether conducting rigorous rope access assessments or performing precise NDT inspections, Lee's expertise ensures that every project is executed with the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

Remote Pilot & Business Development
Yves Dehouck
Meet Yves: Your Expert in Innovation and Growth
Credentials:
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Remote Operators Certificate
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Remote Pilots License (RePL)
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Aeronautical Radio Operators License
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MBA in International Business
About Yves:
Yves brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, aviation expertise, and business acumen to DIWA. With a distinguished background in education technology and executive leadership across the Asia-Pacific region, Yves now channels his passion for cutting-edge solutions into the world of drone operations.
Professional Journey:
Yves held executive roles at the forefront of digital transformation before joining the RPAS sector. His transition into aviation was driven by a deep interest in innovation and unmanned systems. Now as a certified Remote Pilot, Yves applies his leadership experience to support DIWA’s growth, client relationships, and operational delivery.
Business & Operational Insight:
Whether in the field or at the strategy table, Yves is focused on scalable solutions, client satisfaction, and opening new market opportunities. His ability to navigate both the operational and commercial sides of the drone industry positions him as a key asset in DIWA’s expanding footprint.
Why Yves?
With Yves, you get more than just flight expertise — you get a strategic partner invested in the success of your project from the first contact to final delivery.

Lead RPAS Cinematographer – Aerial Content & Creative Operations
Torstein Dryting ACS
Meet Torstein: Your Expert in Cinematic Drone Operations
Credentials:
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Remote Operators Certificate
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Remote Pilots License (RePL)
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Aeronautical Radio Operators License
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Professional Cinematographer
About Torstein:
Torstein blends artistic vision with technical precision to capture powerful aerial narratives. With a background in cinematography and years behind the lens, he brings a creative edge to DIWA’s drone operations, ensuring every shot tells a story and every flight meets the highest professional standards.
Professional Journey:
An accomplished cinematographer, Torstein has worked across film, television, and commercial productions, both in Australia and internationally. His transition into aerial cinematography was a natural evolution — combining his passion for visual storytelling with cutting-edge RPAS technology.
Creative & Technical Expertise:
Torstein’s mastery of camera angles, movement, and light, paired with his flight skills, results in breathtaking visuals that elevate any production. Whether it’s a dynamic tracking shot over rugged terrain or a smooth cinematic pass over industrial infrastructure, Torstein delivers with style and precision.
Why Torstein?
When your project demands more than just a drone pilot — when it needs an artist in the sky — Torstein is your go-to. His deep understanding of framing, pacing, and aerial choreography ensures DIWA’s content stands out for all the right reasons.

Cm3 is Australia’s leading OHS/WHS Contractor Prequalification system.
Cm3 has been developed so that Clients can be confident that the contractors they engage have OHS/WHS systems and processes for working safely.
Cm3 provides qualified OHS/WHS specialists who assess contractors' health and safety management systems and capabilities – giving you a detailed understanding of your contractors' work health and safety capabilities before they start work and supporting your overall contractor management process.
DIWA is now CM3 compliant, which means great benefits for “your business” and ours.