'The Fly Paper'

Someone has to supervise

2012-01-21T15:00:00.001+11:00

Every good project has to have a project manager to make sure everything runs smoothly. Every now and again a thermal goes through to make things interesting. But nothing phases Marta and Jesse, who is in overall charge of the project.

Now the walls are going up

2012-01-21T14:56:00.001+11:00

After much consultation the walls of the new hangar are going up. Even as I sit here more and more sheets of colour bond are being added.

New hangar goes up

2012-01-21T14:45:00.001+11:00

Work continues on putting another hangar out at the aerodrome. It was many hands (and two cranes) make light work. The owners who shall remain nameless are very pleased with the work so far. Over about 8 days the roof has been assembled and today the big lift took place and now it's all free standing.

Werner Grossenbacher has passed away

2012-01-10T11:07:00.001+11:00

Friends of Werner Grossenbacher,

I was contacted by Max Hedt with the sad news that our fellow club member, Werner Grossenbacher, passed away last night.

Max understands that Werner's funeral will be at the Horsham Uniting Church at 2 pm, Tuesday 17th January.

Max had written about the life of Werner for his 88th birthday, and it was reprinted in the club blog on the occasion of his 90th birthday, 18th December 2008.

This can be read in the second entry down of the archive at: http://horshamflyingclub.blogspot.com/2008_12_01_archive.html

Werner was highly regarded by those of us that knew him and he will be sadly missed.

Steven Schneider
H.F.C. Secretary

Getting ready for the season ahead

2011-11-05T18:44:00.002+11:00

Marta is looking forward to getting some time in the Pegase prior the competition season ahead. Marta is taking The Pegase to Ararat in December for the VSA State Comp. Marta will be flying a Discus in Benalla at the Sports Class Nationals.

Pegase ready to go

2011-11-05T18:35:00.002+11:00

The club's Pegase has come back from it's Form 2 at Ballarat. Marta has been preparing HDJ for the up coming soaring season. Tomorrow is the big day when she flies The Pegase for the first time.

J120 & J230 Service Completed

2011-11-05T18:34:00.002+11:00

The 25 hour service and oil change was completed on the 120 & 230 today. Thanks to Phil for about 4 hours solid work. Thanks to the other Helpers as well. The two aircraft are ready for next weekends Come n Try day.

17 / 35 Open for business

2011-10-22T13:53:00.000+11:00

The new North South runway (17 / 35) has finally opened for business. The official opening took place on Thursday 20th October.

Joe Luciani presented with J.R (Bob) Muller Award by the GFA

2011-10-10T18:49:00.000+11:00

Joe Luciani has been award the J.R. (Bob) Muller Award by the GFA for his contribution to the promotion of gliding. Joe is a long time member of the Horsham Flying Club and the founding President of the Ballarat Gliding Club. Now some background on the award.

Bob Muller was one of the founders of G.F.A. in 1949 and was the founder of 'Australian Gliding' magazine in December 1951. His contributions to the sport are too numerous to cover here. Bob's career was in journalism and Public Relations, so it was fitting that when the Australian Gliding Committee decided to inaugurate an award to his memory they should choose 'Promotion of Gliding'. The J.R.MULLER AWARD is presented annually in recognition of the most outstanding contribution in the promotion of gliding in Australia .The object of the award is to increase public awareness of gliding and to encourage clubs, associations and individuals to increase gliding publicity within their specific areas of influence. The award may be presented to individuals (not necessarily GFA members), clubs, state associations, media and organisations.

So congratulations to Joe for all his friends at Horsham.

New Member

2011-10-09T14:55:00.001+11:00

The club at it's October meeting welcomed Chris Griffin (No relation
to Mark Griffin) as a new member. Chris comes from Mt Gambier and is
joining us to fly our gliders. Chris has previous experience of mountain
flying in New Zealand. When you meet Chris for the first time please
make him welcome.

Tow out gear for the Twin Astir

2011-09-18T16:46:00.001+10:00

Finally after almost 30 years of service IUM, the Twin Astir has it's own set of tow out gear. We now have a tail dolly, wing walker and tow bar for the 'Twin'. All that walking the wing finally got to people and Max Hedt and Joe Luciani have put together a system which is practical and doesn't require 'old blokes' to walk a mile in the sun to get to the launch point. Here's a picture of the tail dolly on the Twin.

So things are being made easy for everyone and now we have no excuses for not getting the gliders out and going flying.

Gliders on track. Max has been working on the railway

2011-09-18T16:42:00.002+10:00

Max Hedt has been busy working on a new track system to move the Janus and the Twin Astir in and out of the tug hangar (which is now the glider hangar and the old glider hanger is now full of power planes and the tug, so is now the tug hangar). Each glider will have it's own 'trolly car' and run in and out of the hangar on a track to a set point both inside and outside the hangar.

This system will allow one person to get a glider in and out of the hangar. The Pegase will still move in and out on it's existing free wheeling trolly. The system is not quite complete. Max is finishing off the 'trolly car' and tracks for the Janus. The tracks are made up of tube on a flat plate nailed to the ground. The 'trolly car' has a jack to life the glider up and down. Both gliders run easily along the track with only a minimum amount of push or pull required. The short video below demonstrates the basic operation of the 'trolly car'.

A better quality version of the video can be found here on YouTube

Workshop Looking Great

2011-09-18T15:38:00.000+10:00

The workshop repaint continues at a cracking pace. The floor has been painted. the doors repaired and repainted. It's come up a treat. A big than you to Wayne Jackson who has lead this project and to Marta and Ziggy for helping out applying the paint.

Hats a plenty

2011-09-18T15:21:00.000+10:00

After a number of delays. Arnold has been able to organise sample caps and bucket hats embroided with the club logo. At the recent club meeting it was decided to obtain 10 of each type from Totally Workwear Mildura for sale to members. The caps and hats are being sponsored by Dimboola Stockfeed, a fine small business and great supporter of the club. I'm sorry we don't have a photo to display here in 'The Fly Paper'. More details of what they look like and how much they will cost will be available soon.

New Long sleeve & Short Sleeve Polos

2011-09-18T14:27:00.003+10:00

The club has a new range of short sleeve and long sleeved polo tops available which have the the club monogram embroided on to the shirt (along with your name if you wish). The two in the picture above are the samples that Arnold had made recently during a trip to Mildura. The colours available are white (pictured) and navy blue. Each shirt would cost about $30. These shirts have a high UPF rating for sun protection. The avaiable sizes for men are S, M. L, XL, XXL, 3XL and 5 XL. The sizes for women are 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22.

There is a order list attached to the shirts in the clubroom. Choose the style, colour and size and what name you want embroided below the club logo.

Check out the links Standard Plus Polo (Long Sleeve) Standard Plus Polo (Short Sleeve)

Two New Life Members

2011-08-27T18:31:00.000+10:00

At the club's annual dinner held at the Natimuk Hotel last month two Life Memberships were awarded to current club members who have provided outstanding service to the club over many years. Michael Hogan the current club Vice-President standing in for President Arnold Niewand presented the first Life Membership to Steve Schneider. Steve has been recognised for his ongoing contribution to the club, in particular for his role as club secretary for for the past twelve years. Past club President Michael Sudholz then presented the second Life membership to Michael Hogan. The less said about him the better, especially as it is he/me that is writing this newsletter entry.

You check me & I'll check you

2011-08-27T14:16:00.003+10:00

Peter Weissenfeld and Peter Kelly give each other their annual check flight in the Janus CM Victor X-Ray. This photo taken as they swapped places for the second flight. Both were pretty happy with the others flying. The third flight for the day involved Peter Kelly checking Michael Hogan. Everyone agreed that VX is a lovely plane to fly. The motor is running smoothly and starts easily if you follow the recommended starting procedure.

Not quite Spring cleaning

2011-08-13T17:32:00.000+10:00

It's amazing what can get done on a late winter day. Not only have people been painting, but the 'Pie Cart' has had a wash down and the gutters of the bunk house cleaned out. May be we should have a AGM more often.

Operation paint the workshop (Part 2)

2011-08-13T17:29:00.001+10:00

The clubs workshop has had a few coats of paint applied and is looking really flash. Almost to good to be a workshop. It's now an operations room. Even the concrete floor is going to get a coat of paint. A job well done by Ziggy, Marta and Wayne.

On a road to nowhere

2011-08-13T16:50:00.001+10:00

It's almost a road to nowhere, but it's actually the view to the south on the recently sealed North South (17/35) runway. The strip has been closed for months while much digging and compacting has taken place. Now the seal has been put on it's getting much closer to being back in service. Then all we have to sort out is how gliding operations fit into the reduced area off the sides of the strip. But wiser heads than this blog contributor are working on that. More news as it comes to hand.

Afternoon tea for the workers

2011-07-30T16:02:00.001+10:00

Thanks to a generous donation from Besselaar's Pies and Pasties their was afternoon tea for all the workers. The cakes and donuts were a big hit with some of the 'Little Workers' as well.

Operation 'Paint the workshop' and make it leak proof

2011-07-30T15:51:00.000+10:00

Wayne, Marta and Ziggy have been busy painting the ceiling of the workshop. After many valiant years of service it's time to give it a bit of a makeover. So now it's getting a fresh coat of white, just like it had before.

The second part of the makeover is to install some flashing between the tug hangar roof and the workshop roof to fix the leaks that have plagued the workshop over the years. So now the mold is gone and the room is good enough to run gliding courses and competitions. It might even be good enough to repair and maintain gliders. So a big thank you to the team climbing around on the roof.

Congratulations Marta

2011-07-13T15:32:00.000+10:00

As good Australians we will claim anyone who is successful on the world stage as one of our own. So well done to Marta Najfeld who took out fourth place in club class at the recent woman's world gliding championships. Even though Marta was representing Poland, we know deep down she was really doing it for Horsham.

Now seriously, great job Marta. Club class flew five days out of the possible ten. Marta placed; third on day 1, eighteenth on day 2, fourth on day 3, sixth on day 4 and first on day 5.So a splendid effort all round.

So Marta we now claim you as our latest international representative. Our very own "Aussie Pole". And good on you Ziggy for your support for Marta.

Annual Dinner

2011-07-13T15:00:00.001+10:00

At the June club meeting it was desided to have this years annual dinner at the Natimuk Hotel on Saturday 27th August from 6.30pm. This is our one big get together for the year and it would be great to see as many members, their partners and their guests attend as possible. Please place your name and the number attending on the whiteboard in the clubrooms or contact a member of the committee.

Annual General Meeting

2011-07-13T14:56:00.000+10:00

The club's Annual General Meeting will be held Saturday 13th August at the clubrooms. The meeting will begin at 7.30pm. Apologies to the secretary. Contact Steve Schneider on 0427 315 845. Nominations for the positions of President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Ordinary Committee members should be placed on the notice board at least one week prior to the meeting.

On the 13th Lorelle will prepare a meal for everyone to share. The meal will be from 6.30pm. Please contact a member of the committee to indicate your attendance at the dinner.

New Members

2010-11-26T16:37:00.001+11:00

We have three new members that have joined over last couple of months.

Jim Ridler who spreads his time between farmering out the other side of Mount Arapalies and working at the mines up near Ouyen. Jim is currently about five hours in to his RAA training with PW.

Roslyn Skinner is a Dentist at the Base Hospital in Horsham, who has joined us to do a bit of gliding. Roslyn has her own powered aircraft, a retractable Tecnam which she flew out from New Zealand.

Marta Najfeld who is Doctor Ziggy's partner and has just returned from Europe. Marta can do just about everything. Gliding Instructing, Commercial Pilot and another tug pilot.

So with a few extra keen glider pilots lets hope that this summer we have a great soaring season.

Christmas Dinner and Festive Fun

2010-11-26T16:03:00.001+11:00

The club's annual Christmas dinner will be held at the club rooms on Saturday 18th December at 7.00pm. Members should gather earlier in the evening to share Christmas cheer over a few drinks. Lorelle will require numbers as soon as possible in order to arrange catering.

Names and numbers attending can be left on the whiteboard in the club rooms or contact Lorelle directly on 03 5382 3833.

December General Meeting

2010-11-26T15:30:00.002+11:00

The club will hold its monthly general meeting at the club rooms on Saturday 11th December at 7.30pm Any apologies and items of business should be directed to the Secretary, Steve Schneider by phone to 0427 315 845.

Club Officials for 2010/2011

2010-11-13T20:07:00.004+11:00

President - Arnold Niewand (0429 857 275)
Vice-President - Michael Hogan (0409 028 895)
Secretary - Steve Schneider (0427 315 845)
Treasurer - Wayne Jackson (0419 570 928)
Committee - Phil Colquhoun (03 5389 1812)
Committee - Michael Sudholz (0417 585 747)
Committee - Mark Griffin (0427 887 311)

Successful Come'n'try Day

2010-10-29T13:36:00.000+11:00

The come and try day held on Sunday 24th October was a great success. Twenty five people took up the opportunity to have a short introductory flight in a glider. Each person who flew paid $20 to cover the cost of GFA Introductory membership. the club covered the cost of the aerotow behind the Jabiru 230 and the flight in the Twin Astir. The first flight took off about 11.30am and the last was flown just before 6pm. Each launch was to 1000 feet and last between 8 and 9 minutes.

There was a wide mixture of people who took up the opportunity to have a flight in a glider. A number had expressed interest in returning for a longer introductory flight.

A busy day was had by all. The glider flying was shared by Peter Kelly, Max Hedt and Peter Wiessenfeld . The Jabiru was flown by the two Peter's and Sel Ellis. A number of club members helped with the ground operations and flight briefings for the would be glider pilots.

Gliding Fly and Try Day

2010-09-12T15:20:00.001+10:00

The Gliding Fly and Try day set for Sunday 5th September was postponed due to inclement weather. Unfortunately the weather forecast for Sunday 12th September wasn't any better and it was again postponed. But the rains held off and a number of people came out to the airport anyway and had a try and fly in the Twin Astir even though it wasn't the official fly and try day. Those that did take up the opportunity came back as many do with great big smiles on their dials. Up to 3.00pm we had about 6 people go up in the Twin.

The official fly and try day will now be held in October on the Sunday following the fly-in being organized by the Horsham Aero Club for the 16th and 17th October. This will give the opportunity to distribute information about the Fly and Try day during the fly-in

So the new date for the Glider Try and Fly Day is Sunday 24th October

Lightning takes to sky

2010-09-11T15:16:00.000+10:00

Sel Ellis took to the air on Saturday 11th September for the initial flight in his Lightning kit built aircraft. Apart from a minor glitch or two that are being ironed out as I type the first flight went very well and the owner/builder can be very proud of his work. As they become available we will include some photos of VH-ELZ as they become available.

Horsham Flying Club Annual Dinner

2010-07-31T18:44:00.000+10:00

You and your guests are invited to attend the Horsham Flying Club Annual Dinner

Date & Time: Saturday 7th August 2010, 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start
Venue: The Jade Lantern Restaurant, 49b Roberts Avenue, Horsham
Food style & Cost: Chinese banquet at $27 per head

If you wish to attend please RSVP by one of the two following methods as soon as possible

Write you name and the number attending on the sheet in the clubrooms or
Contact Michael Sudholz on 0417 585 747 or Mark Griffin on 0427 887 311

Glider Maintenance Working Bee

2010-07-31T14:36:00.002+10:00

The annual inspections on our gliders are now being carried out at the club. Members who have time to spare to assist the clubs ground engineers should come out to the club on Saturday 7th August from 1.00pm.

New Members

2010-07-30T14:46:00.000+10:00

We have two new members joining the club. Ziggy Kusiak who is a glider pilot and Anthony Kelly who is a RAA student. Please make both Ziggy and Anthony welcome when you meet them for the first time.

Horsham Week 2011 Website

2010-07-16T18:46:00.000+10:00

There is now a web site set up just for the Horsham Week gliding competition to find it point your internet browser to: www.horshamweek.org.au

Off to Temora

2009-10-22T18:45:00.002+11:00

Five planes and ten crew depart for Temora tomorrow to attend the
flying day at the Temora Aviation Museum on Saturday. The first stop
on Friday is Narrandera to overnight prior to flying into Temora on
Saturday morning. The highlight of the flying day will be a pair of CAC
Boomerangs flying together. So more reports as the weekend progresses.

J230 Paint Scheme Unveiled

2008-12-19T12:10:00.003+11:00

The Jabiru J230 has come out of the paint shop after having its new paint scheme applied. Many members may be aware that '5109' was delivered by Jabiru without any strips or decoration. The club decided to conduct a competition among local school students to develop a concept for painting the J230. After some delays the concept was expanded upon and modified to meet the clubs requirements.

And now it can be unveiled. The colours are the same as those on the J120, burgundy and gold.

The club logo was also applied to the tail. Now where ever we go everyone will know where we are from. (Will this always be a good thing. Ed.)

The 'Little Jab' also had the club logo applied to its tail fin. The last photo shows both aircraft outside the club hanger facing off nose to nose. This photo is the current image that welcomes visitors to the club's web site.

Happy 90th Birthday Werner

2008-12-18T21:30:00.000+11:00

At the club's Christmas dinner on Saturday 13th December we celebrated Werner Grossenbacher's 90th birthday. A great evening was had by all present.

So today on his birthday we are reprinting a short ode that Max Hedt put together to celebrate of Werner's 88^th birthday.

As many people know Werner is a founding member of the old Wimmera Soaring Club and the club today wouldn't be what it is with out him.

Werner was born in Batteakinden, Switzerland on the 18th. December 1918. It has always pissed Werner off that he has never had a birthday party as everybody says that it is so close to Christmas that he can wait to have his party on Christmas day. Werner grew into a fine handsome lad with considerable charm which he quickly learnt to apply with discretion and taste in the presence of the female sex. Naturally, to Werner’s gratification, this made him quite a hit with the ladies. Werner, in his youth, was not adverse to using his charms in any suitable circumstances. When into his teens, he and some of his mates used to sneak down to the adjoining villages to check out the local village girls and when he got caught by the local lads had the shit beaten out of him for his trouble. He and his mates did likewise to any interlopers on their patch.

Werner in the manner of all Swiss citizens also had to serve his time in the Swiss army. His memories of his time in the army are rather hazy as the unit he served with consisted mostly of farmer types who were somewhat skilled in the brewing and distilling of vastly over proof bootleg schnapps from the ample supply of local apples. At times, while in the army, his unit had to ski down the mountains and he is still trying to figure out how, with the ongoing effects of the schnapps, he and his army mates never fell off some of those Swiss mountains! He was also responsible for shaving the 120 men in his unit and is quite proud that despite his occasional schnapps induced state, he never ever cut any body while shaving them.

Werner was apprenticed and trained as a Ladies Hairdresser. After the Second World War, Werner decided to seek pastures new and made his way to Paris. The European money system was in a shambles so Werner had to find some way of earning some French Francs to support himself until he got established. The solution was easy! Werner loaded himself up with the valuable and much sought after Swiss watches. To get them into France he sealed each watch into a short piece of bicycle tube and then sealed them into tins of various types, which he then managed to get across the border into France without being caught! However, as his French was minimal at this stage and the black market was being stamped on, he had to be discrete in disposing of the watches. He managed to sell about half the watches and then met a French gentleman who after some negotiation agreed to safely dispose of the remaining watches for a 50 percent cut. The watches and the French gentleman disappeared never to be seen again! Werner is still swearing and is still ready to have that French bastard’s vitals served up on a red hot platter if he ever catches him!

Werner decided to migrate abroad. His first choice was South Africa but he had to be sponsored by a South African who had to vouch for him for at least five years. He figured that if things went wrong it was going to be bad five years so decided to consider other options. It was while dressing the hair of a lady client that he mentioned that he would like to migrate overseas. She replied that she had sister in a place called Horsham in Australia who might be able to help with the migration. So Werner thought why the hell not!

Werner arrived in Horsham in 1950. By 1952 he had his own hairdressing business and then went on to have a chain of hairdressing businesses in Warracknabeal, Ararat and Ballarat as well as Horsham. There were many ladies who would only have their hair dressed by Mr Werner. Now as we all know our Mr Werner is a cunning old sod! He was always known as Mr Werner, never as Mr Grossenbacher. This had some big advantages as the ladies of the town would, as usual, decide that they wanted their hair done mid afternoon Saturday for that very important party on Saturday night. There was no Mr Werner to be found in the phone book! Damn!

Werner took up power flying around 1959 and started training at Warracknabeal Aerodrome with the Wimmera Aero Club. His first instructor was Dick Hunt who later went on to become the CFI of the WAC. (Horsham did not have an airfield until about 1961 or 62 when one was established on Howard Rodda’s property on the Laharum road.) Around this time Werner would quite unexpectedly announce to the girls at his hair dressing establishment that he was going flying and they could look after the place and then he would promptly disappear for the day. Soon after starting flying training, around 1959, Werner disappeared for one of his trips back to Switzerland. This time when he came with a very good looking lady on his arm called Yvonne whom he informed us was now his wife. A year or so later, a sad Werner told me that due to problems Yvonne had, they could never have children. It was only a short time after this, around 1961, that a small miracle occurred and in due course Yvonne, to the great delight of both Werner and Yvonne, gave birth to a fine healthy son whom they named Mark.

When the Wimmera Soaring Club was formed in about March of 1963, Werner was one of the first to join the new club. He was also very active in the Horsham Yacht club which operated on Green Lake. It actually had water in it in those days! He was also active in the Archery Club as well.

Werner has always thoroughly enjoyed his flying and has often provided the rest of us with quite a few laughs usually at his expense. He has always taken a good deal of ribbing with much protesting but underneath he has accepted the ribbing with a great deal of grace. Around the mid 1960’s, Werner and I set off for Orange week at Waikerie which was a big deal in those days. We took the Nymph which had a 40 foot long one piece wing which extended full length along the towing car when being trailered. You could just see the end of the wing by leaning forward and looking up through the windscreen. Somewhere out of Pinnaroo, Werner looks back at the trailer and suddenly informs me, “The ving, the ving, she is gone!” Bullshit I think, he’s having me on but it was definitely gone. Panic! To our immense relief, we found the wing mostly intact and about 15 feet up in the Mallees adjoining the road a couple of miles back. I climbed the Mallee to lift one end of the wing out of the tree and Werner, our lady’s hairdresser then picked up the whole forty feet of wing that two good strong men were usually required to lift, and walked off with it!

Werner is also the only pilot I have ever seen who could shear a 6 inch wide section of 3/4 inch thick laminated wood bulkhead 3 or 4 inches side ways while doing a low level turn in a 15 metre Boomerang glider. Admittedly it took some time for the Boomerang to emerge from the cloud of dust that resulted from the wing tip hitting the ground however the bulkhead was the only damage and was soon repaired. He still blames me for that too!

Werner has had an interest in quite a few gliders and one delightful little J2 Taylor cub with a hotted up 65 HP engine which he bought in Sydney around 1963. He flew his J2 around for a few years until, to his ever lasting regret he went and sold it. He also together with his good mate Hans Stettin, used to fly a Nimbus 2 for a few years and also a DG100 plus a couple of other aircraft. As the Nimbus had a superb radio that broadcast over long distances, some of Werner's and Han’s radio conversations earned a high level of notoriety amongst the gliding mob over a good part of south eastern Australia. Like, “ Where are you Hans?”, “I am here Werner!” or “I am just to the left of the sun, Hans”.

For longer than I can remember Werner together with Lorelle and over time other helpers, has taken on the job of the social committee for the Club. In doing so, over the years, he has earn’t many tens of thousands of dollars for the club. Sometimes we forget just how much money Werner and Lorelle and others who have helped out have actually raised for the club. (Over 30 or more years, the social committee has raised somewhere around $100,000 according to Lorelle.)

Werner has always had a bit of a kink for farm machinery so to indulge his fantasies, in the mid 1980’s he bought an old tractor and a rotary slasher. For many years, he used his “farm gear” to slash the aerodrome on a regular basis under the direction of the City Council and in doing so again raised considerable amounts of money for the Club. Hence the name “The Tractor shed “ for that storage area between the workshop and the toilets.

Werner has always ensured that an adequate supply of suitable liquid refreshments were on hand, including a number of trips to find, and of course sample suitable red wines for the discriminating palates of the Club’s assorted yobbos! Werner has also made sure that the rubbish bins are emptied and the rubbish put out for pick up and has vacumned the Club rooms every week. He has carried out these jobs which are so important to the pleasant running of the Club, in such a quiet way that very few of us have even noticed that these jobs are getting done.

Even now you will often find Werner having a quiet read mid afternoon in the Club rooms.
Werner is still flying at every opportunity that he can get with his good friend Eric Boschen.
Between them they total up about 165 years in age and about 75 years flying between them. May both of them continue on for many years yet. Werner , we love you! HAPPY BIRTHDAY

New Domain Name For Club

2008-12-18T16:21:00.001+11:00

The club has registered a domain name for the club's web site. We previously had a free web site with a very long address that no one could remember. We now have a web site with the same content but with an address that anyone can remember. Our new address is : www.horshamflyingclub.org.au

Problems With The 'Master'

2008-12-17T16:26:00.001+11:00

I thought only the 'Doctor' had problems with 'The Master', but it seems even mere mortals rather than 'Time Lords' can have these problems. Alright enough with 'Doctor Who'. We have had a few incidents, (well actually four) where the master switch has been left on in both the J120 and J230. Two for each aircraft. The members responsible or should I say irresponsible have had a good ticking off from the CFI and the Treasurer and promise to be more careful in future. The greatest harm done were a few flat batteries (which were quickly re-charged) and some wounded pride. But it is a good reminder to all pilots to check the switches one final time as you get out of the aircraft and or note down the time on the hour meter before shutting down and then record it in the log.

PICTURES FROM THE ANNUAL DINNER

2008-10-06T16:31:00.000+11:00

Michael Sudholz presents Doug Brooke
with his 'Frequent Flyer' certificate.

Club President Michael Sudholz presents Mark Griffin
with his Life Membership.

Michael presents Peter Weissenfeld with
his Life membership of the club.

GOING FROM POINT 'A' to POINT 'B' AND BACK TO 'A' VIA 'C'

2008-10-06T16:28:00.000+11:00

Kevin Reid, another of our new members is progressing well with his navigation flights under the guidance of PW. Just to get an idea of where they've been going. One flight has been from Horsham to Naracoort, then on to Bordertown and finally back to Horsham. The other has been from Horsham to Swan Hill on to Maryborough and back to Horsham. Keep up the good work Kevin.

New Antenna Appears Magicaly

2008-10-06T16:26:00.001+11:00

A new radio antenna has magically appeared on top of the hangar roof. A fault was found in the old antenna which had served the club for decades. As we are all responsible people and observe proper health and safety laws, the antenna fairies removed the old antenna and replaced it with a reconditioned one provided by a notable life member with some experience in the communications industry. So last weekend no members climbed up onto the roof, admired the view, soldered on the new end to the cable and repositioned everything into place. That never happened. Another job well done by the power of positive thinking. If you think about something happening enough it will happen. And it did. So the radio in the bar now receives but we have a small issue with distortion of the signal (possible problem with the speaker). Unfortunately there is still a problem with the microphone, so we can't transmit. But we have one step forward and two steps sideways. One each way actually, one to the left and one to the right. Stay tuned for further developments.

First Solo For Stuart

2008-10-06T16:25:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to Stuart Walker who went solo in the Jabiru J120 on Saturday 27^th September.

Pilot Certificate For Rohan Ellis

2008-06-19T18:13:00.001+10:00

Congratulations to Rohan Ellis who has fulfilled all the requirements to be awarded his Ra-Aus Pilot Certificate.

Guess What I Did On Saturday

2008-06-15T18:30:00.006+10:00

I went solo in the IS28 on the winch. This little item is about Michael Hogan's continuing adventures at his other club, Sunraysia Gliding Club at Mildura rather than the Horsham Flying Club.

I went out to the club on Saturday and my instructor Adrian Ginn arrived just after me. I had the usual chat with people, hooked up a few gliders, retrieved a few gliders from further down the field and then it was my turn.

Adrian came back from the winch and hopped in the back and I got in the front of the IS28, Golf Charlie November.

Flight number 1. Everything went OK, good separation (that means takeoff), initial climb and then full climb. Launch to around 1800 feet, time for a bit of a stooge round. No lift to speak off and 8 minutes later we were back on the ground. A bit of a debrief and some Q & A.

Flight number 2. Much the same as the first. Off at around 2000 feet. But this time I completed a stall to see what it was like. Hmmm interesting, where's all the height gone. Again no lift and back on the ground after 7 minutes. All going well. Adrian is happy, he's not yelled at me or anything. Debrief and more Q & A.

Flight number 3. We'd been talking about cable breaks before this flight and low and behold at also 1000 feet the power drops off it's simulated cable break. Over with the nose. The speed bleeds off incredibly quickly. So nose over, build up speed and don't do anything else until you hit 55kts. Plenty of height so it still a normal circuit and back on the ground in about 3 minutes.

I didn't think I would be doing anymore flights today as we were down to the last two launches of the day and someone else needed a flight. But then Adrian says get in. I get in and strap in while he's talking to someone else. He comes over and says he will take the young lad waiting for a flight in the Blanik. He ties up the back seat and says off you go. No time to panic or anything. He just says, it will get off a bit quicker without him and do all the things I've been doing.

Flight number 4. So it's 'take up slack' and then 'all out all out' and away I go. Ground run a bit bumpy, into initial climb, let the speed build, then pull back on the stick and into full climb. There are a few tugs on the wire, some 'oh shit what's that?' thoughts, the old sphincter muscle is a bit twitchy. The climb continues, 500 feet, 750 feet, 1000 feet, 1500 feet, start to ease forward, starting to level off, riding forward over the winch, the cable finally back releases and I'm free. That's the hard part finished, now its the easy stuff. Stooge around at 1800-1900 feet. Wind down to 700feet above ground and join circuit. It's the last flight of the day, so I've been asked to land long. I make my down wind call. Turning on to final with good height, every one on the ground is running around like ants pointing down field. Yeah I know land long. But do the want me to stay on the right? Anyway I barrel along down the strip, finally touching down and taxiing across the field and come to a stop next to the club rooms and hangar. It's over 8 minutes from takeoff to touch down. Not long in the scheme of things, but good enough for me.

I've done it. I've even survived. I completed my first solo in the IS28 and my first solo winch launch. Looks like a few beers are on me.

I feel pretty chipper. Sorry if you think I'm a bit up myself about going solo on the winch, but I've always been an aerotow boy. So thanks Adrian for your vote of confidence, or were you sick of me and just wanted to get out. Hmm. Also Ian who was driving the winch.

But there's still more to learn and absorb about this winching caper. So until next time...

New Member

2008-06-14T20:00:00.000+10:00

A the club meeting on Saturday 14th June the application of Robin Young for membership of the club was approved. Welcome to the club Robin. When you meet Robin for the first time please make her welcome and introduce yourself.

Dadswells Weekend Washed Away Almost

2008-06-14T11:22:00.002+10:00

The long weekend has come and gone. The first Dadswells Bridge flying weekend was a bit quiet. There were about six gliders from Benalla and our trusty Twin Astir. Peter Kelly and Michael Hogan ferried the twin to Colefield on the Saturday. The omens were not good from the start. During the DI Peter discovered that the front tyre was flat and that the valve extension didn't fit anymore. Much doom and gloom as the resident expert (Mike) stood around watching while PK craw around in the dirt trying to fix things. Gary Albutt was getting inpatient to leave in the Benalla Scout.

Finally a new tube was found, fitted and away the intrepid party went. PK and Mike had a nice trip to the Grampians, but with little wind the ridge wasn't working and they gently floated back to earth at Colefield.

Sunday was no better. The Benalla crew took some launches, but the Twin stayed on the ground. PW and Mike Hogan flew down in the J120 to say hello and check things out. Peter Kelly had developed a cold and drove back to Melbourne. Max Hedt was forecasting rain for Monday and there was some discussion about bring the Twin home. But the Benalla crew was having a nice time, so the Twin and the Scout stayed.

That night it started raining and it didn't stop. Mt William had over 31mm. So, no flying at all Monday and the Scout and the Twin stayed at Colefield until there was a short break in the weather on Thursday 12th when they were brought back to Horsham.

So everyone is now looking forward to the July 12th & 13th when the wind will blow, the ridge will be working and the 'wave' will be going. It won't rain or be calm. It will be great.

Did You Know?

2008-06-01T11:05:00.000+10:00

The Pawnee has been gone for just on a year. Mark and Max saw TOJ off into the fog this time last year. Remember the days when a launch in the Twin didn't involve thinking about where to go if the rope broke for over three quarters of the launch. I don't think anyone has heard much about TOJ's new life in Queensland with all that rain. Must have been a bit hard for the old girl after so many years of drought.

Any Publicity Is Good Publicity!

2008-05-20T18:00:00.000+10:00

To celebrate the arrive 24-5354 Michael Sudholz organized for a photographer from the Wimmera mail Times to come out to the aerodrome and take a picture of our flock of Jabirus. Everything was dragged out of the hangars, the two club aircraft, Phil and Doug's aircraft, the old Jabiru that now belongs to to Steve Monaghan and even Allan Dickerson flew in to complete the picture.

The picture and story were published in the Wimmera Mail-Times on the 14th of May. I currently don't have a copy of the photo from the paper. I have included a photo of the great 'Jabiru meets the press' publicity event. The quality of the picture is not great as it was taken with my mobile phone. By this time the photographer had nicked off to another important photo opportunity – the football.

Stephen Hughes Gains RA-Aus Certificate

2008-04-19T17:51:00.001+10:00

Stephen Hughes has completed all the requirements to receive his RA-Aus Pilots Certificate. Congratulations on your achievement Steve. Next up is the cross country endorsement.

The New J120 Has Arrived

2008-04-09T18:00:00.001+10:00

PW and Sel Ellis have arrived home from Bundaberg with the club's newest aircraft, Jabiru J120 24-5354. The flight home was a joy for both. The new 'Little Jabi' cruises very well when trimmed out and has a nice cruise speed of around 100 to 105 knots.

Both are very impressed with the finish on the aircraft. So nows the time to get out to the club and sample this new aircraft. Contact PW for a check ride.

April Monthly Meeting

2008-04-08T05:00:00.000+10:00

The April club meeting will be held on Saturday 12th April at 7.30pm in the clubrooms at Horsham Aerodrome. Apologies and items of business should be forwarded to the secretary; Steve Schneider. Steve can be contacted on 0427 315 845.

Rohan Ellis Goes Solo

2008-04-06T18:00:00.000+10:00

Rohan Ellis one of our newest club members went solo today in the Jabiru J230D. Congratulations Rohan on a job well done. Also congratulations to PW for his continued efforts training the club's students.

Vic Maddern Has Passed Away

2008-04-02T18:35:00.000+11:00

Vic Maddern, a life member of the club and former Treasurer passed away at 4.00pm on the 1st April. The club offers its condolence to Vic's family. Keep an eye on the Wimmera Mail Times for details of when Vic's funeral will take place.

The Special Meeting

2008-03-30T18:30:00.001+11:00

The club held the Special General Meeting to vote on the two resolutions concerning the change over from the jurisdiction of ASIC to Consumer Affairs Victoria on Saturday 8^th March at 8.00pm. Fourteen members were present at the meeting. The mail out of proxy forms proved very successful with 33 out of the possible 37 proxies returned and all in favor of the two resolutions. The special meeting was opened at 8:09 PM and closed at 8:18 PM, a total of 9 minutes from start to finish.

So all the paper work was completed and sent off just before Easter to ASIC and CAV. Mike Hogan received a very positive phone call about the application from ASIC and some advice about some follow up issues. Mark has since sent off the requested information. Consumer Affairs Victoria approved our application and the club became incorporated under Victorian law on the 19^th of March. Unfortunately the certificate of incorporation didn’t arrive at the club’s Public officer’s house (Mike Hogan’s place) until after the Easter break. So the final piece of paperwork went off to ASIC earlier this week. So now we wait.

The whole process has gone very smoothly, apart from one slight hiccup with the return of our 2006/2007 financial report to ASIC. But that’s been fixed. So as I said now we wait for word from ASIC.

Out with the old, in with the new

2008-03-29T13:01:00.000+11:00

So with the Little Jabi sold, it’s out with the old and in with the new. Our new Jabiru J120 should be arriving soon. PW expects that he and Sel Ellis will bring it back from Bundaberg sometime in the next two weeks. So we’ll have another new plane to familiarize ourselves with very soon.

Little Jab Bought & Paid For

2008-03-28T17:30:00.000+11:00

Steve Monoghan, one of our club members is now the owner of the club’s Jabiru LSA 55-0933. So this aircraft is no longer available for members to fly. Congratulations Steve on your purchase. Steve will be keeping 0933 at Horsham. So remember it’s not ours so you can’t play with it.

Been there, Done That! - Natfly 2008

2008-03-23T17:42:00.000+11:00

The RA-Aus annual fly-in was held at Narromine over Easter from Good Friday to Easter Sunday. Quite a large party of club members set off on Thursday 20^th. PW and Wayne Jackson took the ‘Little Jabi’, Mike Hogan and Griffo set off in the ‘Big Jabi’. Phil C and Steve Schneider set off in Phil’s Jabiru and Doug Brooke and Alan Dickerson followed on the next day in Doug's J170. There was much battering between the members of the party as to which planes would carry whose tent and sleeping bags etc. There were loading issues to be considered. We also took the swags belonging to the aero club Tecnam crew as well as some parting gifts of more sleeping bags from Tony and Peter Brand. Tony and Peter were heading off on the Friday in the Eurofox.

It was a case of follow the leader as the group headed off to Griffith. Everyone kept pretty much in sight of everyone else until we passed the Murray and headed into deepest darkest New South Wales. It wasn’t so much dark as dusty. Everyone arrived at Griffith within minutes of each other. The planes and crew were refueled after the 2 and a half hour flight. Then it was on to Narromine. An uneventful leg until us and a whole heap of other aircraft all arrived at the same time. Fun and games for a few minutes.

But everyone arrived safe and sound and all the aircraft were parked next to each other. Tents were erected and camp set up before the intrepid party headed to the gliding club for a drink. In the spirit of sharing our cash around we also had a drink at the aero club, but as they were more expensive we returned to the gliding club for dinner. Those of us who dined at the gliding club ate at a civilized time. Those who ordered at the aero club had to wait 3 and a half hours to get their meal.

Friday came after for some a very restless night and a long wait for a shower. We did all the stalls and looked at all the planes. Doug and Alan arrived. Tony and Peter arrived. The Tecnam went home. I was decided that we had seen everything we wanted to see and that perhaps we’d come a bit early. So it was agreed to cut short the trip and head home on Saturday rather than Sunday. As an aside some people rediscovered how uncomfortable it is sleeping in a tent on drought baked grass and were very happy to head off one day early.

Dinner on Friday was again at the gliding club. This time it was a little bit slower as we were joined by a number extra people who were pissed off with the lack of service at the aero club.

The weather had changed overnight with a number of passing showers in the Narromine area. But everyone made it out eventually. A few miles south and it was clear as a bell with tail winds all the way home. Again we stopped at Griffith for fuel and pies and pasties. Five planes made the trip back to Horsham on Saturday.

A nice weekend all round apart from the lack of sleep, the flapping tent, the arc light shining all night etc. We didn’t need to go for three days. We didn’t even need to head off on Thursday. We probably could have made it a two day trip. Up on Saturday and back on Sunday. We still would have got to see all the things we wanted too. The aircraft traffic on Friday wasn’t as busy as I thought it would be. I think everyone thought they would arrive on Thursday to miss the chaos on Friday. But all that happened was that the chaos was one day early.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and may no represent the opinions of other members of the party. Others may fill in more detail if the wish. The editor would appreciate some other reports.

Anyway every one was back by Saturday evening sleeping in comfortable beds.

New & Returning Members

2008-03-08T21:00:00.001+11:00

We accepted three new members into the club at the March meeting held on Saturday 8^th. So please welcome to the club; Andrew Dorman, Rohan Ellis and Auston Balon-Rothecam. We also welcome back Stephen Hughes who has renewed his membership of the club. So when you meet them for the first time make them welcome.

Notice of Special Meeting

2008-01-31T08:06:00.001+11:00

This document is a Notice to eligible members (Full Members and Life Members) of a Special Meeting of the Horsham Flying Club to be held at the clubrooms located at Horsham Aerodrome (288 Geodetic Road, Horsham) on Saturday 8th March 2008 at 8.00pm.

This meeting has been called by the Committee to put two Special Resolutions to the members. The full details of the resolutions shall be delivered by surface mail along with a proxy voting form within one week of this posting.

This notice provides at least 28 days notice of the meeting as required under the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001.

Further details about the Special Meeting are available from Michael Hogan on 03 5022 0807.

VSA Cross County Coaching Week

2008-01-30T21:38:00.000+11:00

Following the success of the course held at Hosham last season, another introductory cross country gliding course is being held at Horsham from Saturday 26^th January to Friday 1^st February. Coaching is being provided by VSA coaches, David Wilson, Geoff Vincent & Ian Grant as well as Bernard Eckey from South Australia in his high performance ASH25P. VMFG and Geelong GC from Bacchus Marsh are providing two Pawnee tugs as well as, a Janus & Duo Discus. Our Horsham Club’s self launching Janus and the Twin Astir are taking part. Michael Sudholz and Arnold Neiwand are taking part in the course and Max Hedt is helping out both in the air and on the ground.

Each day will include a morning lecture on topics of interest to early cross country pilots, followed by the weather forecast and a flight briefing were tasks will be set. After flying, data loggers will be downloaded, with a flight debriefing held during the evening.

There are about 9 pilots on the course, as well as a number of visiting pilots who are getting in some practice before Horsham Week 2008.

Horsham Week 2008

2008-01-30T21:35:00.000+11:00

The Horsham Week competition is not to far away now. It all begins on Saturday 2^rd February. Lorelle needs helpers for the kitchen during the competition week. This is an important task as the kitchen is our major source of funds during the competition week. We need people to help prepare stuff under Lorelle's guidance, dish washers, people to do serving. So come out to the club and see Lorelle. She is very appreciative and the club is most appreciative of any help that can be provided. If you can keep Saturday 9^th free. This will be the wind-up night for the competition. There will be an informal dinner, presentation of trophies and their winners as well as fellowship and good fun.

No February Meeting

2008-01-30T21:34:00.000+11:00

As the February monthly meeting falls during Horsham Week there will be no meeting held in February. The next scheduled club meeting will be held at the clubrooms on Saturday 8^th March at 8.00pm. All business and apologies should be directed to the Secretary.

Jabiru 55-0933 'FOR SALE'

2008-01-30T21:18:00.001+11:00

At the January club meeting the decision was made to place the club's 'little' Jabiru 55-0933 on the market for sale at $40,000 (inc GST).

The idea behind the sale is that if we can get our price, we will put in an order for a new J120 which is very basic Jabiru, similar to '0933' in its layout and equipment. But at $58,000 including GST or about $53,000 to the Club (after our GST refund) we would have a brand new, nil time aircraft, at a value that will be very hard to beat.

There simply is nothing else on the market at this price along the lines of a small conventional light sport aircraft. The J120 has brought the price of all the second hand Jabs and a lot of other aircraft down already so we are trying to move before the prices come down any further. So if you are interested or know someone who might be interested give Phil Colquhuon a ring on 03 5389 1541.

Christmas Dinner 22nd December

2007-12-05T21:10:00.000+11:00

The club will hold its Christmas Dinner on Saturday 22 December at the clubrooms from 7.00pm. Lorelle will prepare our traditional Christmas meal. Number would be appreciated for catering purposes by Saturday 15 December. You can add your name to the list on the white board in the clubroom or contact Michael Sudholz on 0417 585 747 with your name and the number attending. As in recent year there will be no flying visit by Santa, so presents will not be required. This is a last chance for the year to share some good will with your friends and fellow club members.

December Monthly Meeting Date Change

2007-12-05T21:04:00.000+11:00

The December club meeting was due to be held on Saturday 8 December. This is the day that Lorelle had arranged to host the Ulysses Motorcycle Club for Christmas dinner at the clubrooms. We will now be holding the December meeting at 8.00pm on Friday 7 December at the clubrooms.

Monthly meetings are open to all club members and their guests. Any apologies should be directed to the Secretary (Steve Schneider) on 0427 315 845. Items of business to be raised should also be lodged with the Secretary.

Fly Away...To Horsham

2007-11-12T18:00:00.000+11:00

The fly away to Horsham Aerodrome by our visitors from the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland was great success. Eight planes arrived on Saturday 10 November, bring 16 guests to enjoy our hospitality. The aircraft were a mixture of 5 Jabiru's and 3 Van's RV's. Most of our guests stayed in town at motels and a couple in the bunk house. We managed to get photo's of all the visiting aircraft after they had tied down. All aircraft were able to fit on the new partly sealed light aircraft tie down area.

Many visitor spent the afternoon around the clubrooms, chatting and sharing stories. Others nipped in to town or rested up for the BBQ in the evening. A few brave souls even gave gliding a try. We did a few launch flights in the Twin Astir and a couple self launched in the Janus. The evenings meal was attended by about 34 people, so there was a good balance between our visitor and local members and their friends. The evening was going so well that an emergency dash had to be made into town for more cold beer. The evening finished up around 10.30pm with a few stayers hanging in a bit longer.

Sunday started with Mike Hogan cooking breakfast at around 8.00am. Bacon and eggs cooked on the BBQ. Most of our guests headed off for home around 9.30am. Daryl and Gayle Hooke were the last to leave later in the morning. Many of our visitors on the way to Horsham and on the way home again enjoyed the scenic route around the the top end of Port Phillip Bay to avoid controlled airspace.

Those club members around for Sunday lunch dined regally on BBQ leftovers. (Sausages and burgers heated in the microwave) The whole weekend went very well. A chance to catch up with old friends and to make some new ones. A number of our members and thinking of a return visit to Latrobe Valley some time in 2008.

Fly away Weekend to...Horsham

2007-11-04T19:27:00.000+11:00

The club is hosting a 'Fly Away weekend' by a group of pilots and their partners from Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley this coming weekend, the 10th and 11th of November. It looks like we will have around 7 aircraft and 14 crew flying in to sample our hospitality.

There is a BBQ on Saturday night at the clubrooms. If you are coming and have not put your name down on the list in the clubrooms, please contact Michael Hogan on 0409 028 895 as soon as possible. Mike is also organizing a breakfast of some sort on Sunday morning.

Max Off To Hand Over

2007-11-01T07:11:00.000+11:00

Max Hedt has been invited to the hand over of the club's old T31 glider to the Australian Gliding Museum this coming Saturday the 11th of November at Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome. The old T31 was a resident in our hanger earlier in the year after it was repainted by Joe Luciani. She is now ready for her new life. Her is a picture of Max and some of the Museum's volunteers at when the T31 was rigged at Horsham for the first time in many years. Max will provide a full report in a future 'Fly Paper'.

Selwyn Ellis Solo's in the 230

2007-10-28T15:44:00.001+11:00

One of the club's newest member, Selwyn Ellis made his first solo flight in the club's J230 Jabiru on Friday 26th October. Selwyn is a former member of the old Wimmera Soaring Club and was an Instructor and Tug Pilot for a number of years. Naturally Selwyn picked up his flying from were he had left it a number of years ago. PW only required a small number of dual instructional flights before letting 'Sel' off on his own again.

Laying on the bog not the blog

2007-10-13T14:26:00.001+10:00

Bill Fry and his son Gavin are laying on the bog. Really they are working on Bill’s Lightning project in the clubs workshop.

So there has been much mixing of body filler, waiting for it to go hard and then sanding it all off again.

It all makes sense to people who build there own planes. But the work is progressing well. Stay tuned to more news.

Phil's Jabiru Project Takes To The Air

2007-10-09T20:58:00.000+10:00

At 11.00am this morning Phil Colquhuon passed a significant milestone with his Jabiru J200 project. After much hard work and many long months, Phil's little baby has at last taken to the air for the first time.

After some final checks and a high speed taxi run Cliff Banks gently lifted off for the first flight. Everything went very well, the plane handled perfectly and only required some minor fine tuning before its second and third flights.

Michael Sudholz and Peter Weissenfeld report that Phil was 'Very happy' with the test flights and had a smile on his face from ear to ear when Cliff applied the power and gently eased off the runway for the first test flight. Congratulations Phil. Phil is pictured below with Cliff Banks after the successful test flight.

Unfortunately a small stone was picked up by the prop and hit one of the mail wheel fairings. So now Phil has his first repair to fix. Oh well such is flying. Phil is pictured below inspecting the damage.

Jabiru J230 Aerotow Report

2007-09-05T18:45:00.000+10:00

Details of the first four aerotows completed by the club's new Jabiru J230-D at Horsham Aerodrome.

Flight No. 1, Saturday 1st September, 1600 hours.
Wind 9-10 kts from the North. Temperature about 15 C. Takeoff from runway 35 on firm dirt with short grass with a length of 800 metres. The Jabiru was carrying about 1/2 fuel with an estimated TOW of 510 kilos. Mark Griffin flew the Jabiru and Max Hedt was solo pilot in the club's Grob G103 Twin Astir 2. The estimated TOW of the glider was 490 kgs. Thermal activity during the flight was very low. The following is Max's summary of the flight.

Mark won the hot seat as the tug pilot for the first tow. My job in the Twin was a lot easier as all I had to do was stay out of trouble in a familiar aircraft. After lining up the aircraft most of our mob took off down the strip to get photos and watch the lift off. That left Steve Schneider and Doug Norman to organize my launch.

After some discussion it was agreed that Mark should set the flaps at about 1/3 down for the tow. Mark carefully took up slack until I gave him the "Lets Go!" over the radio. Initial acceleration was a little better than I expected with only 120hp in front of us. The Twin got airborne quite quickly after a hundred plus metres.

But once up to about the 45 to 50 knots it seem that the acceleration slowed down and the Jabiru took quite a while and a fair bit of strip length to become fully airborne at about the 60 to 65 kts . Once airborne the tow became easy with the Jabiru quite stable in front. Mark was trying a 70 kt tow speed but found the climb better at about 75 kts. The wake turbulence was a lot less than the Pawnee and I found it easy to stay in a position just below the Jabiru slipstream. The reference for this position were the elevators lining up with the wings.

Flight No. 2, Saturday 1st September, 1620 hours.
Wind 9-10 kts from the North. Temperature about 15 C. Takeoff from runway 35 on firm dirt with short grass with a length of 800 metres. The Jabiru was carrying about 1/2 fuel with an estimated TOW of 510 kilos. Mark Griffin flew the Jabiru and Steve Schneider was solo pilot in the club's Grob G103 Twin Astir 2. The estimated TOW of the glider was 490 kgs. Thermal activity during the flight was very low. The following is Max's summary of the flight.

I offered the flight to Steve and had to dodge to avoid getting run over as Steve headed for the cockpit! Again the Twin got off the ground in a reasonable distance but the Jabiru stayed on the ground even longer than the first flight. The flight was completely normal to the extent that Steve took a couple of photos of the Jab in front just after becoming airborne. The release height was again 2000 ft AGL. Time by the watch, 9 minutes ground to ground for the Jabiru.

Flight No. 3, Sunday 2nd September, 1530 hours.
Wind 15 kts from the West. Temperature about 16.5 C. Takeoff from runway 26 on firm sealed strip with a length of 1330 metres. The Jabiru was carrying near full fuel with an estimated TOW of 550 kilos. Mark Griffin was again the tug pilot The club's Grob G103 Twin Astir 2 was flown solo again by Max Hedt. The estimated TOW of the glider was again 490 kgs. Thermal activity during the flight was again very low.

Take off normal, but even on the sealed strip the Jab's take off run to get airborne was quite long. Mark started some gentle turns after about 700 to 800 feet and I had absolutely no trouble to staying in position. At 1500 feet, I suggested to Mark that we try a high tow to check the effects on the J230. I carefully eased up through the slip stream to a high tow position. The reference here was the Jabs wings were just below the horizon. Mark later reported that there was no readily perceptible change in the attitude or performance of the Jab when the Twin was in high tow.

I descended to low tow and moved out to an extreme tow position out to the left off the Jab. Mark reported no problems and he still had some rudder left. I repeated this out to the right. Again, no problems. I then descended into a very low position which students can sometimes get into. I was uncomfortable to be in such a low position. Mark later said that the Jab started to slowly porpoise in pitch so we were getting close to the position limit in low tow. The release was right at 2000 ft. AGL. This flight was timed by stopwatch. The time from the start of the ground roll to release at 2000 feet was 6minutes and 26 seconds. The rate of climb for this flight was an average of 310 fpm. The Jabiru's time ground to ground was 10 minutes and 20 seconds.

Flight No. 4, Sunday 2nd September, 1520 hours.

Wind 15 kts from the West. Temperature about 16.5 C. Takeoff from runway 26 on firm sealed strip with a length of 1330 metres. The Jabiru was carrying near full fuel with an estimated TOW of 550 kilos. Mark Griffin was again the tug pilot The club's Grob G103 Twin Astir 2 was flown for the first time two up by peter Weissenfeld and Steve Schneider. There was moderate thermal activity. The following are the observations by Max and then Peter.

The usual long ground run from the Jab. The Twin got airborne after a moderate ground run. The release height was again 2000 ft AGL. The time from start of the ground roll to the release of the Twin was 6 minutes and 55 seconds. The time for the jab, ground to ground was 9 minutes and 55 seconds. Mark's comment was that it was quite a grind to get up there but when the figures are looked at, it only took another half a minute of climb with two up as against one up to reach 2000 feet. Average rate of climb including ground run with two up in the Twin Astir and near full fuel in the Jab was 290 fpm.

Peter first impressions of the Twin launch with 2 people on board was that “the acceleration was very slow with a long ground run. It took quite some time to even get the nose wheel off the ground. With a good headwind we had plenty of clearance over the fence. Once airborne the glider handled as normal. Climb rates varied between about 6ktsfont> and 1kt as there were moderate thermals and sink around”.

Some general observations from Max Hedt.

Mark has only had four tows in total in an unfamiliar aircraft but is already starting to bring the Jab down a little quicker.

The Jab pilots will have to remember to retract the towing flaps before accelerating during the descent.

The initial ground acceleration is better than I anticipated but the long ground run of the J230 despite the towing prop, is something that we will have to take into account, particularly when the temperatures get into the mid 30's.

The Jab's cylinder head temperatures are staying in the upper third of the green.

On release and throttle reduction, the temperatures momentarily move into the yellow before settling back into the green. This may improve as the engine loosens up some more and beds in.

We may also have to improve the sealing of the engine cooling ram air ducts with the engine cowling. Apparently doing this simple fix can improve engine cooling quite substantially.

We will measure the length of the take off runs on both the glider and the Jabiru as well as timing and recording a lot of flights to build up a data base.

My impressions are that we have an aircraft in the J 230 that even with our Twin Astir at MTOW of 580kgs, will do a respectable job of towing, taking into consideration the relatively low number of launches we are currently doing. The J 230 has a limit of 600 kgs MTOW for a glider on tow so this cuts our self launching Janus out which has a maximum of a 700kg MTOW.

The only qualification I have is the length of the takeoff run for the J 230 to get airborne which is around 60 kts. This longer take off run also applies to normal non tow operations, something we did not expect after the performance of the little Jab which gets of the ground quite quickly.

Another metre of wing and or 30 hp swinging a larger prop would make a very substantial difference to the tow and overall performance.

In other aspects, the J230 is stable, easy to fly, comfortable, economical, reasonably quick even with the towing prop which gives a 112 to 115 kt cruising speed, robust and low maintenance, long range, good load carrying capacity and with a very quick parts supply from Queensland and at a very good price compared to the alternatives.

All of our members and a couple of Aero Club members who flew it Sunday seem to be quite impressed with our purchase. We have a very good aircraft at a very good price and it will fill the general club use role very well indeed and the towing role quite adequately for the limited towing we are currently doing.

View the First J230 Aerotow

2007-09-03T23:21:00.000+10:00

Click on the play button to view a short video of the first aerotow launch of the club's Grob Twin Astir by the J230. Mark Griffin is flying the Jabiru and Max Hedt is in the glider.

J230 Does Its First Two Tows

2007-09-02T07:45:00.001+10:00

It happened yesterday (Saturday 1^st September) late in the afternoon. 24-5109 our new Jabiru J230 completed her first two test aerotows at Horsham Aerodrome. A number of members were around the club, some coming from near and far to witness the big event. The final few hours were flown off during the day to get the engine hours to over thirty.

(Peter and Mark check the alignment of the tug mirrors)

Max Hedt DI’d the Twin Astir while PW was taking a TIF flight in the Jabiru to the Grampains and back. Mark Griffin arrived in time to pilot the first launch. The cameras were prepared to record the big event. Mark had a briefing with Mark and a good look around the aircraft, the mirrors were adjusted and a quick circuit flown.

(Max gives Mark his 'riding instructions')

Max Hedt took up position at the very end of runway 35, the short strip. The take off would be into the North. Steve Schneider elected to run the wing, while everyone else headed for the other end of the strip to watch. Finally the Jabiru and Twin Astir commenced their ground roll. The glider lifted off first and the Jabiru further along the runway. We had lift off. The combination passed the watching spectators and continued along 35 gaining height, cleared the end fence with a respectable margin and began to climb away. The climb rate was varying between 300 and 500 feet per minute and averaged around 400 feet per minute.

(Nearly ready waiting for the tug to land after a circuit)

The first launch was to 2000 feet AGL, our standard launch height. The time for the Jabiru was just on 10 minutes from power on to wheels down and back to earth. Not bad we thought.

Steve Schneider flew the glider during the second launch. The Jabiru/Twin Astir combination took a little bit longer to get off the ground this time. The height over the end fence was respectable but not like a launch behind the old Pawnee. Again the launch was to 2000 feet and the launch time was again around 10 minutes from Power on to wheels down.

(Away they go off into the North off Runway 35)

Initial feelings were good. More test flight need to be done to determine out standard procedures. The first two launches were done on grass on the shorter of the two Horsham strips. We will see what the Jabiru/Twin Astir combination is like on the 08/26, the longer sealed strip. We are yet to go two up in the glider. All will be revealed in launches to come.

Stay tuned for further updates and photos to be uploaded as they become available.

J230 Landing At Colefield

2007-08-30T22:05:00.000+10:00

Click on the play button of the video viewer to watch a short video of the club's new Jabiru J230-D 24-5109 landing at Colefield, Dadswells Bridge on Saturday 18th August 2007. Steve Schneider makes his first landing in the 5109 under the guidance of Peter Weissenfeld. And a very nice landing it is too.

J230 Take Off at Horsham

2007-08-30T21:54:00.000+10:00

Click the play button of the video viewer to watch a short video of the club's new Jabiru J230-D 24-5109 take off at Horsham Aerodrome on Saturday 25th August. Wayne Jackson is the pilot in command.

Annual General Meeting

2007-08-28T07:48:00.000+10:00

The AGM has been set for Saturday 8^th September at the Clubrooms. The meeting will begin at 7.00pm. Members who wish to vote by proxy at the meeting will need to lodge a proxy notice by mail to P.O. Box 158, Horsham, 3402 by Friday 7th.

Photos of New Jabiru & Annual Dinner

2007-08-28T07:38:00.000+10:00

Some photo taken during the Great Jabiru Expedition have been added to the club's photo gallery as well as some photos taken at the club's Annual Dinner & Awards Night. You can view the the photo gallery via the link on the club's web page or just click on the link below and you will be taken to the gallery.

Club Photo Gallery

Hours Building Up on J230

2007-08-26T20:00:00.000+10:00

The new Jabiru is going well. As of late today the J230 has flown over 28 hours. The first oil change is due at 30 hours and then we can start our first aerotowing trials. So its possible that our first tow made be made next weekend.

Max Hedt has been volunteered to fly the Twin Astir and most likely Mark griffin or Peter Weissenfeld will fly the Jab. So club history may be made next weekend. So come out on Saturday and be part of this big event. Then again if it doesn't happen you can go for a fly in '5109' and help run her in a bit more before we do start towing with her.

Happy 50th Phil

2007-08-25T23:00:00.000+10:00

Phil Colquhoun celebrated his 50th birthday on Saturday evening with a get together at Dimboola. Many of his friends and family attended, along with a number of club members. We learn't a bit more about our Phil during the evening. Things like a new nick name to us, 'Shifty Links'. So Phil what is the price of eight kettles?

Congratulations Phil. Now that the birthday is out of the road its on to finishing off his Jabiru and its first test flight.

Leanne Goes Solo

2007-08-25T13:00:00.000+10:00

Leanne McCulloch-Ball went solo in the Little Jabiru on Saturday morning. Leanne had had a very successful flight with PW on Friday afternoon. Leanne had one of those flights were everything just clicks. Leanne was offered a solo flight, but as it was late in the afternoon she left it to the following day. Well done Leanne.

Busy Weekend For New Jabiru

2007-08-19T18:30:00.000+10:00

It was a busy first weekend for the club's new Jabiru J230. Many members got their first look at 5109 and others took up the opportunity of their first flight with PW providing them with a guiding hand. PW and Mike H flew down to Dadswells Bridge on Saturday to show off our new baby to the 'GCV' crew. Everyone who has flown her made positive comments about her performance and handling.

Annual Dinner & Awards Night

2007-08-18T23:00:00.000+10:00

The clubs annual dinner and awards night was held at the Capitol Restaurant Horsham on Saturday evening. About 30 members and their guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of good food, good wine and good fellowship.

President Michael Sudholz presented a number of awards during the evening. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to Max Hedt for his work in organizing the Jabiru purchase, Phil Colquhoun for his commitment to aircraft maintenance and Lorelle Esmore for her continuing efforts throughout the year, particularly during Horsham Week. Wayne Jackson received the 2007 'Frequent Flyer Award'. Peter Weissenfeld, Alan Dickerson, Michael Hogan and Michael Sudholz all received 'You Did It' awards for their trip to Bunderberg and return to pick up the new Jabiru. each was also presented with a certificate and an embroidered cap to remember the trip. Michael Sudholz also received a 'You Did It' award for dropping Michael Hogan camera out of the plane and leaving it behind at Horsham at the beginning of the Bundy trip.

Our New Little Baby

2007-08-17T18:30:00.000+10:00

Here she is, the club's new Jabiru J230-D.
24-5109

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 6

2007-08-16T18:30:00.000+10:00

Another early start for the run home. The leg from Narromine to Griffith took about an hour and three quarters and the three aircraft arrived at Griffith for refelling under clear blue skies. The crew welcomed a cup of coffee at the aero club. Unfortunately the cream biscuits had a few ants crawling over them. So not much lunch today.

The second last leg for the day was to Swan Hill to show Cliff banks our new toy. After another short 90 minute leg to Swan Hill, Cliff got a chance to have a fly in the 230 and another cup of coffee for the crew. The party left at about 4.30pm to complete the last leg of the day from Swan Hill to Horsham and arrived an hour later to be greeted by Max Hedt and Doug Brooke. Mike Hogan was quickly bundled out of the new Jabiru and replaced by Max for a quick flight with PW. Then back to the hangar to put all the planes to bed and a final beer to celebrate the successful delivery of the new Jabiru J230D.

All told there were over 20 flight hours in the club's and Alan's little Jabiru's. About 10 hours in the new club Jabiru. The refelling stops on the way up to Bundaberg were at Horsham, Griffith, Narromine, Moree and Dalby. The outward track was a distance of 891 nautical miles. On the way back from Bundaberg fuel was taken on at Bundaberg, Dalby, Morree, Narromine and Griffith. The return leg included the diversion to Swan Hill and involved a total distance of 896 nautical miles. The round trip was 1767 nautical miles. It was a great trip, as I've already said. Someone had to do it. And Al, Peter, Mike and Mike were the lucky ones who got to do it. So come out to the aerodrome and let Peter introduce you to our new baby. She's so cute. Even if she has got big ears at the front. But all parents think their children are beautiful no matter what anyone else says.

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 5

2007-08-15T18:30:00.000+10:00

It's the big day. Time to head for home. Up very early because of uncertainty about the weather on track. But just like the air force its hurry up and wait. Firstly we got to the factory before anyone else so we had to wait around for the staff to arrive. Then a wait for some minor work to be done on the door lock on the passenger side of the plane. Then of course there was the call from the motel to let Mike Hogan know he'd left some things behind in the room. So a quick trip back to the motel and back to the factory. Jamie from Jabiru obtained the area forecasts and everyone sat down to plan the trip from Bundaberg to Narromine. Time was starting to drag an early departure time was looking doubtful.

Eventually PW and Mike Hogan were able to get the J230 out of the hangar and taxied around to the fuel bowser to fill up. Mean while Alan and Mike Sudholz prepared the little Jabs and taxied around to refuel. So with the mornings delays the party was not able to get underway to our first stop at Dalby till almost 11.00am. After a flight of around an hour and a half the three aircraft arrived within minutes of each other at Dalby to refuel. PW and Mike were the last to leave after Mike counted to a hundred and shouted “coming ready or not”. Well he may have actually said it in his head. The stop for refelling at Dalby also involved the pilots refelling themselves with cold toasted sandwiches from the Bundaberg Airport terminal.

The second leg of the trip was from Dalby to Moree took about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The three aircraft again arrived within minutes of each other. This was a quick refelling stop as rain showers were approaching. By the time PW and Mike who were the last to leave the showers were moving across the track to Narromine. Only a few minutes out of Moree all three aircraft were out into the sunshine and on track to Narromine. After a flight of about two hours the three aircraft arrived at Narromine just on last light. The aircraft were tired down and Geoff from the Motel drove down to pick us up. Then after settling in at the motel it was off to the combined services club for a meal and a few drinks. Then back to motel to plan the next days flying to Griffith, Swan Hill and finally home to Horsham.

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 4

2007-08-14T18:30:00.000+10:00

Mike Hogan up bright and early for his morning walk and the search for a source of breakfast. The party returned to late from the sports club to put in a breakfast menus at the motel. The “Scottish Restaurant” was located just up the road and the whole party headed off for breakfast and the start of the hand over of the new Jab.

But not so fast. A problem had arisen early on in the trip as to a suitable photographic record. Mike Hogan suggested just the one digital camera would do the job and as his was smaller and lighter than Mike Sudholz's, we should take his. But unfortunately Mike S dropped Mike H's camera out the door of the club Jabiru just before takeoff for Griffith. Mike H thought it was only the case that was left behind and kept going for Griffith. The camera was found on the ground next to the refelling bowser at Horsham by helicopter pilot who landed as we took off. The camera was later retrieved by Max Hedt. Mike H finally realized that it was the camera and bag that was missing when he asked Mike S to take a photograph as the proceeded on track.

To bring this story back to Day Four, Alan decided to buy a digital camera for himself and most of the morning was spent at Harvey Norman next to the motel haggling and bartering over the price of a camera, case, charger and suitable batteries. The party finally got to the factory after 10.00am and were meet by Rod Stiff again and his 2IC Jamie who showed us around the factory and introduced us to our new baby; Jabiru J230-D, 25-5109.

What a wonderful plane, photo's were taken from all angles, hands were run over her fine lines, the seats tried out for size. Everyone was very impressed and the first jokes were made at her expense. The two mirrors needed for aerotowing stick out like a pair of large ears just behind the upper engine cowling. This arrangement of mirrors lead to Alan giving the 230 the nick name 'Prince Charles'. Although mike H suggested that with some streamlining added to the mirrors it could be called 'Madonna'.

While some issues with RA-Aus over the final paper work were ironed out by the Jabiru staff Al, PW and the two Mike's spent the remainder of the morning hunting up items on our extensive shopping list. There were things for the club, stuff for Doug Brooke and a few items for Alan as well.

At last the 230 was finally pushed out of the hangar and a flight briefing provided by Neil, one of Jabiru's test pilots. Neil gave us a good idea of what to expect from the aircraft and then he and PW went out to do a familiarization flight. PW had an excellent first flight, but he did need cushions in order to see clearly over the instrument panel. So a quick trip was made to a near by Big W stored to by cushions. Unfortunately a second trip had to be made for extra cushions and there was not enough time to have any more flights. Again the evening was spent at 'Brothers'. Another filling meal and some more beers and another local beverage nightcap saw the end of Day Four.

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 3

2007-08-13T18:30:00.000+10:00

Day three of the expedition, but actually the second flying day. Geoff from the motel obtained the aviation weather for the party and delivered the four crew to the aerodrome. Alan's Jabiru had trouble starting after a cold night and a layer of ice had to be cleaned off the wings before we could get going. The track for today was Moree, then Dalby and finally on to Bundaberg. Fuel was taken on at the first two stops. The party left Narromine at around 10.00am and arrived at Bundaberg around 4.10pm. Between Narromine and Moree there was a lot of scrubby country and we appreciated Cliff Banks advice to divert via Galargambone. Another long day with around five hours spent in the air. Dalby to Bundaberg was the last part of our crossing of the Great Dividing Range. PW and Alan went over at around 5500 feet and Mike and Mike between 4500 and 5500.

The weather was perfect for the crossing, although there was quite a bit of smoke haze. Both Jabiru's performed very well. Rod Stiff from Jabiru picked us up from the tie down area and delivered everyone to our motel near the airport. This was our first introduction to the fabulous hospitality of the Jabiru Company. After settling into our rooms, the intrepid party headed over the road to the 'Brothers' Sports Club for a beer or several and a Chinese banquette. After a very enjoyable meal the party retired to the motel for some more of Alan's stories and a nightcap of a beverage distilled by a well known local business. Although PW was shocked to find that the variety mixed with a famous American cola actually comes from Sydney.

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 2

2007-08-12T18:30:00.000+10:00

An early start was planned with everyone arriving at the aerodrome at 8am. A low fog was over the aerodrome and burnt off enough to depart about 10.00am. The first leg was to Griffith. Mike Hogan and Mike Sudholoz were in the club Jabiru 55-0933, with PW and Alan were in Alan's Jabiru 55-1909. Peter would be couching Alan through the dual portion of his RA-Aus cross country endorsement. The flight time to Griffith was a bit over two hours and both planes arrived within a minute of each other. After refueling the planes the intrepid crew retired to the Griffith Aero Club to refuel themselves with sandwiches and cups of coffee. There was time to chat to the Griffith Aero Club President about all matters aviation.

The second leg for the day was to Narromine and was again completed in just on two hours. Narromine was planned as the first over night stop for the expedition. The little Jabs were refueled and the crew decided that a beer or several would be just the ticket to finish the day. About five hours were spent in the air today. It just so happens that Sunday night is BBQ night at the Narromine Gliding Club. Our intrepid party spent a pleasant evening outside on the club veranda, lovely steak and salads and a few more beers. Then back to the motel to shoot the breeze over a coffee and a brief discussion on the plan for the Monday. Then off to bed for a good nights sleep.

New Member - Welcome Brett Young

2007-08-11T21:00:00.000+10:00

The club welcomes a new member this month. Brett Young has joined the club. Brett is an RA-Aus pilot and has already taken to the skies with PW in the new 230. Welcome to the club Brett. Please make yourself known to Brett when you're next at the club.

The Great Jabiru Expedition - Day 1

2007-08-11T18:30:00.000+10:00

Showers of rain and strong winds all day. A 10.00am start was planned for everyone, Peter Weissenfeld and Mike Hogan arrived almost on time. They both looked out the window as all good weather forecasters do and agreed things didn't look to good. Both spent some time reviewing the Area Forecasts covering the planned first day. Mike Sudholz didn't arrive fore almost another hour. Alan Dickerson was excused an early arrival due to the passing showers and low cloud ceiling. Alan did have to fly in from the other side of Mt Arapalies and eventually appeared between rain showers at the aerodrome. Finally everyone was on deck at the club and with winds of over 35 knots on track to Griffith and Narromine and continual passing showers at Horsham all agreed that the departure be delayed until the following day. So Saturday became a "Make and Mend" day. The club Jabiru was cleaned up by Max Hedt and the seals around the doors were replaced and everything made ready for the Sunday departure.

Off To Get The New Jabiru

2007-08-08T22:56:00.001+10:00

It's all systems go for the expedition to pick up the new Jabiru J230 from the factory. Two planes and four crew are going. Alan Dickerson and PW will be taking Alan's Jabiru, while Michael H and Michael S are taking the club's Jabiru. The party will set off on Saturday, subject to the weather of course. The plan is to reach Narromine on Saturday and then on to Bundaberg on Sunday. We can pick up the new plane on Monday and head home on Tuesday, again subject to the weather. If all goes well we will be home on Wednesday evening. So stay tuned for more updates.

Next Dadswell Bridge Weekend

2007-08-05T14:00:00.000+10:00

The next Dadswells Bridge flying weekend will be on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th August. Benalla's Pawnee will be providing the towing duties. The Twin Astir will be ferried to Colefield for the weekend. The Briggs Bluff area is a great one to flying around. Depending on the winds there may be ridge lift and of course the ever allusive 'Wave'. So keep the 18th and 19th free for some really interesting flying opportunities.

Annual Dinner and Awards Night

2007-08-04T07:02:00.000+10:00

The club's Annual Dinner will be held on Saturday 18th August at the Capital Comfort Motel, Firebrace Street, Horsham (This is the old Commodore, over the road from the swimming pool). There will be no set price menu, so you and your guests will be able to order what you wish from the evenings menu. RSVP for the dinner to Michael Sudholz on 0417 585 747. Pre-dinner drinks will be from 7.00 PM. So its 7 for 7.30. The night is open to all members, their partners and friends of the club. As usual we will be inviting the Dadswells Gang to join us.

Crap Flying Weather...Good For Farmers

2007-07-08T10:51:00.000+10:00

PW reports that the weather on the weekends over the last few weeks has been pretty poor for flying with not a lot of flying activity. But the weather has been great for our farmers, and no one really minds that much. So Phil C has been giving the grounds some much required TLC. Well he's mowed the grass anyway. But mowing the grass is not without incident. My trusty reporter tells me that Phil got bogged four times on the ride on. Thanks for all your hard work Phil.

Update Of Fleet Details

2007-07-07T17:01:00.000+10:00

There has been an update to the details of the clubs aircraft on our web page. Now that the the Pawnee has been sold and the J230 ordered and almost here, I decided to add basic details of past club aircraft. So after discussions with Max and PW I came up with a basic list of our past aircraft. At the moment its just a list of type with a photograph. I have included photos of the actual aircraft if I have one. Where I haven't got an actual photo I have included a generic photo of the aircraft type. Please let me know if there are any aircraft that have been missed out and also if anyone has photos of any of our past aircraft. Have a look at the page for yourself. It can be found at;

http://home.vicnet.net.au/~wimmsoar/fleet.htm

We've Got A Street Address At Last!

2007-06-23T14:00:00.000+10:00

After more than 44 years of telling people the club is at Geodetic Road Horsham we now have an actual street number. We are located at 288 Geodetic Road. This corresponds (so Max Hedt tells me) to the club being 2880 metres from the beginning of Geodetic Road. We assume that the beginning is at the railway crossing. We even have one of those 'bendy' road side markers to indicate were '288' is and its right next to the entrance to our the car park. It also could mean that 288 Geodetic Road is the aerodrome and not us. That could make us 288A, B, C or some other letter corresponding to the buildings on the aerodrome. But let's just say its us. So now its; Horsham Flying Club, Horsham Aerodrome, 288 Geodetic Road, Horsham.