Australian Model Flying Day - October 25th, 2015

After blowing a gale the previous week the AMFD weekend was very kind and gave us an absolutely perfect flying (and BBQ) day on Sunday Oct 25^th.

With nearly all our members attending (only Scott & Gavin G were unable to attend) the models on show ranged from the “Tomboy” RC Assist to Gavin Hallam’s gas turbine jet. Lyell & Greg churned up the sky with their Wind Wings, however Lyell also slowed the pace with a very neat electric glider. The glider had no trouble finding some thermals, however the local Raptors were not too sure what to make of this “bird” and flew very close at times.

Dave H also flew his powered glider, unfortunately he had a small problem, the one piece fuselage turned into two pieces! (More on that later) Dave redeemed the situation with some nice flights with the iconic Junior 60.

Tony S, Mike and Peter G all had their large petrol “IMAC” type models, with Tony & Mike showing the benefit of recent pattern completion. Peter G impressed all with his flying skills, he will certainly add some competition to the aerobatic scene. Unfortunately he ran out of fuel at the wrong time and damaged the model with a heavy landing, however it will be back in the air soon.

PA flew his Venus aerobatic model, YS four stroke powered, Greg flew his OS powered Yak and Jack flew his very neat electric powered Monolog. Tony G completed the “mid-size” pattern group with his now well used OS powered “clipped wing” Option 40.

It was great to see Mike fly the little diesel powered Courtesan again, such a contrast to the large petrol models, but just as much fun! We must get the Tomboy’s out again soon!

Gavin H spooled up the Boomerang gas turbine and put in many flights during the day. It is always a thrill to see Gavin “fly the jet” The model handles beautifully, both slow and very fast and it sounds so good. Lyell likes the jet fuel smell too!

Activities were put on hold as we were treated to a superb lunch provided by Elaine with help from Colleen, Chris & Elizabeth. Thank you so much.

After lunch President Mike spoke to the group and recognised the initiative of the MAAA to instigate an Australia wide event to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The $5 donation from participants went to the RFDS and also provided us with a neat metal badge to mark the occasion. 

Our club raised a total of $100 for the RFDS on the day, so sincere thanks to all. A certificate of appreciation was sent by the MAAA and displayed.

All in all, one of the best flying day’s we have at the Roaring Forties and chance to help the Flying Doctor and have lots of fun, what more can you ask!

Text and Photos courtesy William Deal.

PS: We received an email from ASTB after the event, promptly answered by RFAM Secretary, please see below

Dear Mr Deal,

There has been a report of an aircraft incident on the above mentioned day that the ATSB has convened a board of enquiry.

After much deliberation we have reached our conclusion.

In the opinion of the board, there was a mistake on the part of the pilot, Mr. D Harcourt in that he did not take due care and attention to the construction of the aircraft after he took delivery.

As you are aware, all pilots have a responsibility to ensure their aircraft are safe to use.

An inspection of the crash site revealed what the board thinks is what caused the incident.

A short distance from the impact zone, the nose cone was found.

Mr Harcourt has said that he had previously added a bit of nose weight inside this cone.

It was found that NO glue or other material had been used to secure this cone to the airframe.

It would appear that the cone fell off rendering the aircraft unstable which resulted in the ground impact.

Since the aircraft can be repaired, the board is of the opinion that chastising by fellow club members will be sufficient punishment.

Sincerely yours

Duncan Flyover

Secretary

Australian Transport Safety Board

Dear Mr Flyover,

We thank the ATSB Board for their investigation and we wish to advise that the Roaring Forties Committee take such infringements very seriously indeed. Please be assured that Mr D Harcourt will be taken to task about his blatant disregard of traditional aircraft engineering and he will be subject to constant "reminding" by club members (some are very skilled in this area) We are sure Mr Harcourt will realize that constant chastising by club members is not a positive experience and we are confident he will very soon see the light (or the glue!)

Yours sincerely

W L Deal

Secretary

Roaring Forties Aero Modellers