Jack Tonks Memorial Fly In.

Colleen and Jack Tonks.

Sadly our fellow member and very good friend, Jack, passed away on the 26th October, 2018.  Jack was a great friend and a wonderful person who will be missed very much.

The Roaring Forties decided that our annual fly-in would be renamed in Jack's honour.  The inaugural "Jack Tonk's Memorial Fly-In" was held on the 24th November, 2018 during which a portion of Jack's ashes were scattered by his son John.

Guests of honour were Jack's widow, Colleen, their son, John and daughter, Heather, grandson Luke and Jack's sister, Molly with her two sons David and Michael.

A sad occasion but full of wonderful and joyful memories.

Colleen with Luke, John and Heather.

Unfortunately the weather was not kind to us so a few invited guests from northern clubs could not make the trip. However, we were pleased to welcome friends from The Hobart Model Aero Club.

President, Mike Rutledge, presenting a plaque and flowers to Colleen.

Luke, John, Colleen, Heather and Molly at Jack's safety bench with plaque attached.

Jack's sister, Molly, with her sons David and Michael.

Lyell, Mike and John preparing to scatter Jack's ashes.

Jack's ashes were scattered by his son John, and released from Jack’s last finished aircraft, "The Baby Ace". In very windy conditions John flew several circuits before zooming skyward and releasing the ashes.  A very fitting and emotional tribute.

There was some flying during the day.  However the weather was terrible so it was mainly wings that took to the air.  John Tonks and Mike Ralph did test my new Alchemy and both gave it the thumbs up.  No excuses for me now.  

After some flying we retreated to the shelter of Tony and Elaine's house to have some lunch.  Another wonderful lunch prepared by amazing wives, partners and friends.

Val Gregory, Linda Groombridge, Lyn Hallam and Elizabeth Rutledge

           

Members and guests reflecting on 2018 and planning 2019.