HGFA Skysailor Magazine

SKY SAILOR 3 May | June 2019 A world-class hang gliding competition, one of the biggest aerotow comps in Australia, will see pilots from across the country and the globe soar sky high over the Western Downs this April, endeavouring to promote this beautiful region as well as attempting to grow the sport. The Dalby Big Air competition, held from 7 to 13 April this year, is renowned for its ideal soaring conditions, smooth thermals and excellent road network that facilitates easy retrieves. This friendly, fun competition, situated in the country town of Dalby – the central hub of a vast cotton and sorghum growing district – is about introducing as many pilots to the excellent flying conditions and spectacular region, as well as supporting novice and intermediate pilots to ensure the longevity of the sport. The Executive of the Dalby Hang Gliding Club is dedicated to ensuring the event remains fun, but also safe. “We attempt to cater not just for our pilots, but the people in the local community of Dalby, and the land owners,” said Competition Organiser, Bruce Crerar. “It’s very important that we play a positive role in the local community. We want pilots, drivers, and crew to be courteous, have fun, but also obey the rules to stay safe.” Most AA comps seem to have a laid back vibe, the pilots like the flatlands, the great thermals, excellent road system and good landing options. “The Dalby Hang Gliding Club has a hangar at the airport with impeccably maintained tugs and equipment, both owned and borrowed from our benevolent supporters. All our tug pilots are experienced, with most having towed at World Championships, and are dedicated to keeping you as safe as possible so you can enjoy the flying in this beautiful area,” said Bruce. “Of course we can only control one end of the rope.” Running for over 20 years, the competition continues to soar in popularity drawing both national and international competitors. Focusing on out and returns when possible, this is the last competition of the thermal season, therefore is more about racing and short tasks. “The Dalby Hang Gliding Club is a small club run by a dedicated group who form the Executive Management Committee. We are about promoting safe aerotowing procedures in an airport environment,” explains Bruce. “We co-exist at the Dalby Airport with many commercial crop spraying operators and the light aircraft community with whom we have strived to foster a good working relationship, using good communication and airmanship procedures. Like Forbes, we are an outpost, but maintained by an executive dedicated to protecting the facility for as long as possible.” For more information on the Dalby Big Air, visit [dalbybigair.com ]. Dalby Big Air Promoting the Western Downs, QLD in one of the biggest HG aerotow comps in Australia